Lifting straps can help when the muscles you are trying to train can continue working but your grip is becoming the limiting factor. They are most commonly used for deadlifts, rows, shrugs, and other heavy pulling movements.
When lifting straps make sense
Straps are most useful when grip fatigue would end a set before the target muscles have received the intended training. They are a tool, not a requirement for every pulling exercise.
How to put lifting straps on
- Slide each hand through the loop so the loose end of the strap runs in the direction that allows it to wrap around the bar.
- Place your hands on the bar at your normal grip width.
- Wrap the loose strap around the bar, usually one or more turns depending on strap length.
- Rotate your hand slightly to tighten the wrap and remove excess slack before beginning the lift.
Do not eliminate grip training
If straps are used for every set, your grip may receive less direct training. Many lifters perform warm-up or lighter work without straps and reserve them for heavier sets where grip would otherwise limit the movement.
Use straps only after the setup is secure
Before loading a heavy set, practice the wrapping motion with a light weight. Both straps should feel secure, and you should be able to release the bar when necessary. Never use equipment you have not learned to operate under a manageable load.
Exercises where straps are commonly used
Deadlifts, Romanian deadlifts, barbell rows, dumbbell rows, shrugs, and some machine pulling movements are common applications. Whether straps are appropriate depends on the training goal.
Keep the tool in perspective
Straps do not replace sound technique, sensible loading, or progressive training. Their role is narrow: they can reduce grip as the limiting factor during selected heavy pulling work.
For a simple padded option, see the Performance Lifting Wrist Straps.