Why train with wrist wraps?
Many lifters underestimate how important wrist stability is. Your wrists take a lot of strain in almost every compound lift, from bench presses to overhead squats. Wrist wraps help keep your wrists in a neutral position. Furthermore, fitness wrist wraps provide:
✔ More strength & control
✔ Less stress on joints
✔ Better technique
✔ Faster recovery
Do you often train with heavy weights? Combine your wrist wraps with a set of weightlifting straps to improve your grip and generate even more power in deadlifts and pulls.
When should you use wrist wraps?
Wrist wraps are not an accessory you just ‘put on’. They have a specific function and mainly help with exercises where your wrists are under high tension. Examples of those exercises are:
- Bench Press & Overhead Press
- Snatches & Cleans
- Front Squats
- Dips & Handstands
- Heavy Dumbbell Workouts
Do you do a lot of CrossFit or functional training? Then you can protect your wrists extra with a layer of weightlifting tape for even more grip and cushioning.
Buying wrist wraps: what should you look for?
Not all wrist wraps are the same. Want to buy a set of wrist wraps that really works well? Then pay attention to the following points:
1. Material
Elastic wrist wraps are flexible and suitable for dynamic exercises like CrossFit. Stiff wrist wraps are extra sturdy for heavy lifts in powerlifting and weightlifting.
2. Closure: Velcro or loop?
Velcro is easy and quick to adjust, perfect for varying exercises. A loop with a knot provides extra firm fixation, ideal for heavy lifts and long training sessions.
3. Length & width
- Shorter wraps (30-40 cm) offer freedom of movement and light support.
- Longer wraps (50 cm+) are ideal for maximum stability during heavy lifts.
4. Fit
A good wrist wrap should fit tight enough without restricting blood flow. Make sure the material is breathable so your wrists don’t overheat during long sessions.
Are you looking for the ultimate wrist and grip support? Combine wrist wraps with grips for even more control in exercises like pull-ups and barbell lifts!
How to use wrist wraps correctly?
A common mistake is that lifters wear their fitness wrist wraps either too loose or way too tight. Here is how to use them correctly:
- Place them just above the wrist joint: This provides maximum support without restricting your movement.
- Not too tight: Your wrists should stay stable, but your fingers should not tingle.
- Use them only when needed: Don’t wear them for every exercise so your wrists remain strong.
- Combine with grip training: Train your forearms and grip strength without wrist wraps to avoid dependency.
