There are countless gym accessories available, which can make it challenging to determine which ones are truly beneficial and which are just a waste of money. This guide highlights the most commonly used gym accessories, explaining their uses and whether they are worth adding to your fitness routine.
1. Straps as Gym Accessories
Straps are often used for heavy deadlifts or shrugs, but they excel in pulling exercises like rows or the lat pulldown. They allow for better control throughout the set, ensuring that your back reaches failure before your grip does. This can result in better muscle engagement and more reps. Straps are particularly useful when lifting heavier weights. Beginners may not need straps until they start handling significant loads.
2. Lifting Belt
A lifting belt can increase intra-abdominal pressure, helping to brace the core and potentially increase power output. However, learning to use a belt correctly is crucial. Despite its benefits for heavy, low-rep work, a lifting belt is not necessary for those focused solely on building muscle. Proper bracing techniques without a belt can suffice for most bodybuilding purposes.
3. Dip Belt
The dip belt has the ability to add extra weight to exercises like dips and pull-ups. It is highly recommended for those looking to enhance their bodyweight routines, especially for experienced lifters who seek to increase the difficulty of their workouts. A dip belt remains a valuable investment over time due to its versatility.
4. Wrist Wraps, Elbow Sleeves, and Knee Sleeves
These accessories compress the targeted area and offer stabilization. Sleeves also help in keeping the joints warm, which can be beneficial for joint health. However, beginners should avoid using these accessories to allow their bodies to adapt naturally. They become more beneficial for lifters handling very heavy weights.
5. Weightlifting Shoes
Weightlifting shoes can enhance leg training by improving squat depth and emphasizing the quads due to their elevated heels. They also benefit those with poor ankle mobility. However, similar effects can be achieved by placing small plates under the heels, making weightlifting shoes an optional investment.
6. Meta Gym Accessories : Gloves
Gloves are generally counter productive unless doing high-friction activities like CrossFit : the hands may become excessively strained. For typical gym workouts, gloves are unnecessary and can be compared to swimming in a raincoat.
7. Bands
Resistance bands are versatile gym accessories useful for stretching, warming up, and advanced techniques like band-assisted pull-ups or band-resisted exercises. While not essential, bands can add value to workouts when used correctly by experienced lifters.
8. Ab Wheel : Strengthening Gym Accessories
The ab wheel is a great tool for performing ab rollouts, a highly effective secondary ab exercise. It’s not mandatory but can be beneficial for those seeking to diversify their core training routine.
Conclusion
Most gym accessories are not essential for building a strong, muscular physique. However, certain items like straps, dip belts, and bands can enhance workouts for more experienced lifters. Beginners should focus on fundamental exercises and proper form before incorporating these accessories. As expertise develops, incorporating gym accessories can provide additional benefits and improve training efficiency.
