Having the right gym accessories can make a world of difference in your workout routine. Over time, I’ve discovered a few essential items that not only enhance my performance but also provide that extra bit of support and comfort I need during intense training sessions. Here’s a breakdown of my top five favorite gym accessories and why they’ve become must-haves in my fitness arsenal.
1. Workout Gloves
When I first started lifting, I underestimated the importance of workout gloves. However, I quickly realized that they’re a game-changer, especially for exercises involving a pulling motion, such as deadlifts, pull-ups, and rows.
Workout gloves protect my palms from developing painful calluses and blisters, allowing me to train harder and longer without worrying about the discomfort that often comes from gripping bars or dumbbells. They also provide extra grip, making it easier to hold onto weights during heavy lifts.
2. Wooden Plank
This one might sound a bit unconventional, but a simple wooden plank has been a game-changer for my squats. I went through various squat wedges that promised better depth and stability, but they often ended up being either too tall, too short, or simply unstable.
After spending a lot of money on fancy squat wedges that didn’t work, I took a trip to Home Depot, found a sturdy piece of wood, and had them cut it to size. This DIY solution was not only incredibly cheap but also far more stable and effective than any commercial wedge I tried. The wooden plank helps me achieve the perfect squatting depth and maintains my balance, making my squat sessions far more comfortable and efficient.
If you struggle with squat depth or balance, consider giving this simple solution a try before investing in expensive equipment.
3. Knee and Elbow Wraps
In the beginning, I thought knee and elbow wraps were only for advanced lifters, but as I started lifting heavier weights, I quickly realized their importance.
Knee and elbow wraps provide crucial support and stability to your joints, especially when moving heavier weights. They not only reduce the risk of injury but also give you the confidence to push yourself harder. As you progress in your lifting journey, you’ll find that wraps can make a significant difference in your performance and joint health.
4. A Good Bench
I can’t stress this enough: don’t skimp on your bench. It’s one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll use, especially if you’re serious about your training.
A solid bench provides the stability and support needed for various exercises, from bench presses to step-ups. Unlike cheaper benches, a good-quality bench offers a wider range of decline and incline angles, allowing you to target your muscles from different positions. It’s an investment that pays off in terms of safety, comfort, and the variety of exercises you can perform.
Pro Tip: When choosing a bench, make sure it has a sturdy build, a decent weight capacity, and adjustable angles. You’ll be spending a lot of time on it, so it’s worth getting one that feels secure.
5. Lifting Straps
I’ll admit, I was skeptical about lifting straps at first. I always thought they were unnecessary, but once I tried them, I never looked back. They are one of those things you don’t really get until you try
Lifting straps essentially attach your wrists to the weight, helping you maintain your grip during heavy lifts. As you start moving larger weights, your grip strength might not always match your muscular strength, and that’s where lifting straps come in handy. They eliminate the need to worry about your grip slipping, allowing you to focus entirely on your form and execution. This makes a big difference, especially during exercises like deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.
Use lifting straps during your heavier sets, but don’t rely on them entirely. It’s still important to build grip strength over time.
Final Thoughts
These five gym accessories have made a significant impact on my workout experience, providing the support, stability, and protection needed to push myself further. Whether you’re just starting or have been training for years, having the right accessories can make a big difference in both your performance and enjoyment.
So that’s my list—now I’m curious, what’s your favorite lifting accessory, and how has it helped you in your fitness journey? Let me know in the comments!
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