In order to do the exercises properly, you need the appropriate training gear. This goes for every sport, but when it comes to weightlifting – it cannot be stressed enough. Comfortable shoes, straps, wraps, belts and numerous other items are the essential part of every weightlifter’s training bag. However, since weightlifting involves a lot of load pressuring the body, a few other items are essential to make the weightlifter’s starter pack complete.
Wrist Wraps
To prevent any possible injury, weightlifters use wrist wraps to secure their wrists (obviously). If it happens that the bar is in a wrong position, they can be severely hurt, since wrists are the closest joints to the heavy barbell. Furthermore, the wraps will prevent the damage to the wrist joint during the rotation under the bar as well.
Sports Tape
Sports tape helps a weightlifter maintain their fingers in position while gripping the bar. Some joints need extra stabilisation, and the stretch sports tape ensures that as well. What’s more, thanks to the sports tape, fingers and thumbs of a weightlifter will be completely protected too.
Lifting Shoes
An essential part of every weightlifter’s gear are quality weightlifting shoes, as they offer stability, comfort and enable a weightlifter to achieve a range of motions. Your everyday running shoes can be useful, but weightlifting ones will reduce the risk of injury, thus representing a more stable, durable, stronger and more comfortable option.
Weightlifting Tights or a Singlet
A competition attire weightlifters wear is predominantly a singlet. Weightlifting tights are quite popular as well, and are considered to be the essential part of every weightlifter’s starter pack. These pieces of clothing serve to reduce the friction on the legs, and since the weightlifter has to assume the deep receiving position, flexible apparel is more than necessary.
Lifting Straps
Lifting straps are also a must, as they prevent calluses from tearing and save the grip. Weightlifter’s programme includes numerous pulling movements of various volume, so the straps are great for keeping the grip fresh. Additionally, they’ll help you hold the position during the programme by maintaining engagement in the back.
Weightlifting Belt
The one accessory that is very beneficial, but must be used skilfully, is a weightlifting belt. Unless you know how to properly use one, you won’t be able to improve the proprioception of the trunk, and you’ll be at risk of hurting your spine instead of protecting it.
Knee Wraps
In order for a weightlifter to have a precise and efficient transfer of energy in the body, knees must have the appropriate support. Thanks to the knee wraps, every time a weightlifter squats, their knees absorb power and release it once they go up from a squat. Knees usually take the most loading during weightlifting training, so they must be adequately protected. If a weightlifter doesn’t put all the loading through the quadriceps muscles, knees will suffer most, which can lead to a serious injury. Therefore, knee wraps will provide the necessary support and protection.
Final Thoughts
Every weightlifter must rely on seven items that will help them go through an efficient training session. Therefore, if you consider embarking on a weightlifting adventure, invest in wrist wraps, sports tape, weightlifting tights, lifting shoes, lifting wraps, weightlifting belt and knee wraps. All of these items are essential for keeping your joints unharmed and your entire body ready for the good training programme.