Bodybuilding Accessories - Straps, Are They Crutches Or Useful Tools?

Many bodybuilders and powerlifters use wrist straps as a means of reinforcing hand

and forearm grip on the bar while doing heavy compound lifts, such as rows or deadlifts. Others feel that using wraps is counterproductive to bodybuilding goals, and that the long-term use of wraps leads to underdeveloped forearms, bicep, and grip strength. But which side is correct? There are three main schools of thought when it comes to wrist wrap usage in the gym.

All the time

Some trainers use wrist wraps all the time. They cite safety reasons. They believe that the grip/forearms will always give out before the back, so it's always best to use wraps to ensure the back receives a complete workout. Many athletes who subscribe to the 'all the time' theory often do additional bicep, forearm, and grip work to compensate for the lack of indirect work these groups receive as a result of the wraps being used.

Some of the time

To some athletes, the wraps are just like a belt or knee wraps - just another tool in the box that is useful at times. When going for max poundage's on the heaviest sets, use them. Other than that, don't bother. They believe that part of functional strength is being able to hold a heavy bar, and it should be done as frequently as possible. However, they also recognize the importance of using tools to improve performance. Also, as most bicep tear injuries occur during heavy deadlifts or rows, this school of thought calls for wrist straps whenever the weight being moved approaches the 'dangerous' level.

None of the time

Some purists see wrist straps as a crutch, used by people unwilling to develop the forearm and grip strength to hold heavy bars. These people are common in intermediate circles, but fewer in advanced circles, where most world-class deadlifters do use wrist straps most of the time.

Who is correct? As with many debated bodybuilding topics, determining the "best" theory is difficult. The best method is the one that delivers the most results in the shortest amount of time for the trainer. If it works best, it is the best! Try using straps for workouts, and try training without them. Find your own solution. And above all, never be afraid to mix it up, and try differing methods from time to time to keep the body guessing - and growing!

by: Dane Fletcher

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