Sstrength training helps you to lower your body fat percentage and increase lean muscle tissue, according to MayoClinic.com. Wrist straps are used during weight lifting to help improve your grip and wrist support. This can help you to lift heavier weights more safely. Whether you choose to use weightlifting straps during your exercise routine depends several variables. According to the American Heart Association, you should exercise approximately 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
Heavy Weights
If you are lifting weights because you want to build muscle mass and plan to lift relatively heavy weights, you should consider using wrist straps. Wrist straps attach to the barbell and assist your grip so that you can lift heavier weight than you normally could. This allows your muscles to become stronger and develop more lean muscle mass. Be sure to practice safety when lifting heavy by using a spotter, or a friend to assist you when lifting heavy weights, to help you during your workout.
Light Weights
If you plan to only lift light weights for toning purposes, you may not need to wear wrist straps. Lifting light weights will still help you develop lean muscle tissue, but you will likely be able to grip lighter weights with no problems in your wrist. In fact, not using the straps will help to further develop wrist and grip strength. As you progress in your weightlifting program, you may begin to lift heavy weights, and then you could consider using straps.
Grip Strength
If you have strong wrists but a weak grip, wrist straps are a smart choice for you. This is because wrist straps are attached to the barbell itself and help you to grip more weight than you normally would while lifting. A better grip on the barbell will prevent your other muscles from compensating while lifting weights, and this can help improve the strength in muscle groups such as the back and shoulders.
Wrist Strength
While wrist straps are helpful if you have weak wrists, over-using them can actually reduce your wrist strength. This is because you will begin to rely on the straps, and the muscles in your wrists and forearms will work less. If you have weak wrists, you should use the wrist straps while lifting heavy weights, but consider doing some wrist strengthening exercises. Consult your physician or request a referral to a physical therapist if you find you are developing weaker wrists.
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