Lifting Straps
Lifting straps eliminate grip as a limiting factor in pulling exercises. They wrap around the bar and your wrists, creating a secure connection for heavy deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.
Basic cotton str...
See allLifting straps eliminate grip as a limiting factor in pulling exercises. They wrap around the bar and your wrists, creating a secure connection for heavy deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.
Basic cotton straps (10€) work fine for most people. Figure-8 straps offer the most secure hold for max deadlift attempts.
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Lifting straps eliminate grip as a limiting factor in pulling exercises. They wrap around the bar and your wrists, creating a secure connection for heavy deadlifts, rows, and shrugs. Basic cotton str...
See allLifting straps eliminate grip as a limiting factor in pulling exercises. They wrap around the bar and your wrists, creating a secure connection for heavy deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.
Basic cotton straps (10€) work fine for most people. Figure-8 straps offer the most secure hold for max deadlift attempts.
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AmazonBuying Guide
Basic cotton or nylon lasso straps are the most versatile choice. They wrap around any bar, dumbbell, or handle and release quickly when you drop the weight. At 10-15€, they're cheap enough to replace yearly. Figure-8 straps lock your hands to the bar completely — ideal for max deadlift attempts but dangerous if you need to bail from a failed rep.
Strap width affects comfort and grip distribution. Standard 3.5cm straps work for most exercises. Wider 5cm straps distribute pressure better for very heavy pulls but can be awkward on smaller handles. Leather straps grip the bar faster than cotton but are stiffer and more expensive. For mixed use (deadlifts, rows, shrugs, lat pulldowns), a pair of basic cotton lasso straps is the best starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't lifting straps create a grip weakness?
Only if you use them for everything. Use straps exclusively for your heaviest pulling sets where grip limits the target muscle. Train without straps for warm-ups, lighter sets, and dedicated grip work. Many elite deadlifters train raw grip up to 80% of their max, then strap up for top sets. This approach builds both grip and overall pulling strength.
What's the difference between lasso straps and figure-8 straps?
Lasso straps wrap around the bar and can be released quickly — the weight pulls out of your hands if you let go. Figure-8 straps loop through themselves, locking your hands to the bar permanently until you unwrap. Figure-8s are more secure for max attempts but are not recommended for Olympic lifts or any exercise where you might need to drop the bar quickly.
Can I use lifting straps in powerlifting competitions?
No. Straps are banned in all powerlifting federations for deadlifts. In competition, you must use either a double overhand, mixed (one over/one under), or hook grip. However, straps are excellent for training volume — save your grip for competition prep. Strongman competitions do allow straps in most events.
How do I wrap straps correctly around the bar?
Thread the strap end through the loop to form a circle around your wrist. Place your open palm on the bar with the strap tail hanging over. Roll the bar toward you so the strap winds tightly around it. Two to three wraps is optimal — more adds bulk without benefit. The strap should tighten when you pull, not loosen.
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