Are workout accessories like belts, wrist wraps & compressions sleeves Necessary?
Are you one of these people who wear a lifting belt on every leg day or have wrist wraps on for every workout?
Is it okay to use these accessories?
Sure, you can use them.
BUT, in my opinion, I don’t think you should. Here’s why.
By using these tools, they will help you with your lifts. A belt will help secure your core when squatting. Wrist wraps will stabilize your wrists when benching. Knee wraps will help stabilize your knees when doing leg press.
So why do I say to avoid all of these things if they help?
Because they are assisting you! Isn’t that a good thing? If you’re injured and continuing to workout through it, then yes you may need one of these things to not make it worse. However, if you are healthy there’s no need for any of this. It’s simply making the workout easier.
There’s a better solution…
Do less weight. I know, right? Mind blowing.
If your body can’t handle the pressure of a weight you’re doing then you probably shouldn’t be adding an external accessory just so you can do that weight. By adding some of these things you’re basically telling your body “don’t worry about this aspect of the lift”. That’s NOT good!
You want to build every single weak point in your body. And when you do something else outside the gym like moving furniture for example, are you gonna say “wait, let me put on my belt”? No, probably not. So why train with one?
I understand if you say your grip strength sucks so you can’t hold heavy enough dumbbells to give your legs a proper/good workout. Basically saying your grip can’t handle enough weight for your legs. Instead of using wrist wrap grips, I’d say stick with a weight you can handle and do a high rep range until your legs are getting enough work. Over time you’ll build your grip up as well just from time under tension.
Stop using all the accessories all the time unless you’re injured and absolutely need them. You’re not doing yourself any favors and if anything, you’re probably not getting the most out of every workout because of it.
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