Weight lifting includes a broad spectrum of strength training exercises including Olympic weight lifting, power lifting and bodybuilding. Using various free weights such as barbells, dumbbells or kettle bells, weight lifting uses the force of gravity to develop muscular strength. While weight lifting has several health and fitness benefits beyond increasing strength, the various exercises can put excessive stress on joints such as the wrist. Wearing wrist braces for weight lifting helps to stabilize the wrist joint and forearm to prevent injuries and promote proper wrist alignment.
Function
Wrist braces have several functions for weight lifting including stabilization and protection of the hand, wrist and forearm. The braces keep your wrists and forearms properly aligned and secured to the bar along with reducing the pain and stress on the wrist for a reduced risk of injury. However, the wrist braces can also limit your range of motion for exercises such as pull-ups.
Materials
The materials used for weight lifting wrist braces are designed for moisture control, flexibility and stabilization. The main fabric is a lightweight moisture wicking material with antimicrobial fibers to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungus or other microorganisms that can cause odor. Some braces may also feature hard plastic for reinforced stability. A Velcro strap is used to wrap around the wrist and fasten tightly to the wrist and forearm.
Prevention
Even if you have never suffered from a hand, wrist or forearm injury, wearing wrist braces for weight lifting can prevent injuries while you lift heavy weights or do high repetitions. Common injuries that can occur as a result from weight lifting include wrist tendonitis from inflamed tendons in the wrist or carpal tunnel syndrome from a compressed median nerve in the wrist. Light wrist braces can be worn for extra support in the wrist without sacrificing range of motion for other exercises.
Injuries
Wrist braces for weight lifting are recommended if you've suffered from a wrist injury. Consult your doctor or physical therapist about recommendations for a specific type of wrist brace or any contraindicated exercises that should be avoided. They can also prescribe additional treatment options to improve the wrist injury and may suggest wearing the wrist brace during the day or evening for additional support.
References
- APT Pro Lifting Gear: Wrist Braces
- Bodybuilding.com: What Are Some Accessories That Will Help Improve Your Workouts?
- Personal Training and Sports Performance Excellence: How to Use Wrist Straps to Increase Effectiveness of Training
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet
- Rusty Iron: The Equipment
- University Sports Medicine: What is Wrist Tendinitis?
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