Lifting Wrist Straps

Whether it's deadlifts, RDL's, lat pull downs, or just upping the dumbbell weight, quality wrist straps are a game--and grip--changer for all the gym girls out there!

5/8/20242 min read

Wrist Straps for Lifting: Do You Need Them?

Wrist straps are a simple yet powerful tool that can elevate your weightlifting game. Designed to support your grip and reduce strain on your wrists, these straps are a go-to for athletes pushing heavy lifts like deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.

Benefits of Wrist Straps

Improved Grip Strength: Straps help secure your hold on the bar, allowing you to focus on the lift instead of worrying about your grip giving out.
Enhanced Performance: By minimizing grip fatigue, wrist straps let you lift heavier and complete more reps, which can lead to better muscle gains.
Reduced Wrist Strain: They provide extra support to the wrists, especially during high-intensity lifting sessions.

When to Use Them

Wrist straps are ideal for heavy pulling exercises where grip can be a limiting factor. However, they shouldn’t replace grip training altogether. Use them strategically—save them for your heaviest sets or when fatigue sets in.

Choosing the Right Straps

Look for durable materials like cotton or leather, and opt for a design that feels comfortable yet secure. There are different types, including loop and figure-8 straps, so experiment to find what works best for your needs. Personally I have found that the Fitgriff® Lifting Wrist Straps (https://amzn.to/4khZpqh) are the most comfortable and durable after much use in the gym. While I often find wrist straps to be uncomfortable upon first use, these slid on like a glove, and once adjusted were very comfortable due to the padding, and hardly chafed. I also love these because they come in smaller sizes as opposed to a one-size-fits-all approach! If you're looking for something more heavy duty, I'd recommend the Double Layer Leather Wrist Strap (https://amzn.to/43pFBve). While I haven't used them myself, countless gym friends have recommended these as a great option if you find the cotton wrist straps to be not supportive enough. While these are only one size, they are adjustable and can accommodate most wrist sizes.

A Balanced Approach

While wrist straps can enhance your lifting, remember to train your grip strength and wrist stability separately. This balance ensures you build overall strength and avoid over-reliance on straps.