Summary Achieving personal records (PRs) in weightlifting requires strength, technique, and the right gear. Lifting supports can play a key role in enhancing your performance by providing stability, reducing injury risk, and increasing confidence during heavy lifts. This guide explores the best lifting supports to help you break through plateaus and reach new PRs. Description 1. Wrist Wraps for Maximum Stability Why They're Essential: Wrist wraps are a must for heavy lifts like the bench press, clean and jerk, and overhead press. They stabilize the wrist joint, prevent hyperextension, and allow you to focus on your form without worrying about wrist strain. Recommended Features: Look for wrist wraps with adjustable lengths and sturdy Velcro straps to ensure a secure, custom fit. Neoprene or cotton-based wraps provide excellent comfort and durability. Top Picks: IronMind StrongWraps – Known for their durability and support, perfect for powerlifting and achieving PRs. Rogue Fitness Wrist Wraps – Highly adjustable and provides excellent support for overhead and heavy pressing movements. 2. Elbow Sleeves for Joint Protection Why They're Important: Elbow sleeves offer compression and warmth, which can aid blood flow and reduce discomfort when lifting heavy. They also provide stability to prevent overextension, especially during movements like the bench press and squat. Recommended Features: Choose sleeves with adequate compression to reduce joint strain, while also allowing enough flexibility to maintain full range of motion. Neoprene is a common material, offering durability and flexibility. Top Picks: SBD Elbow Sleeves – Renowned for their excellent compression and support, ideal for heavy lifts. Mark Bell’s Sling Shot Elbow Sleeves – Offers great support and joint protection without sacrificing mobility. 3. Lifting Belts for Core Stability Why They're Crucial: Lifting belts help protect the lower back by providing additional core support during heavy compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, and overhead presses. They allow you to brace your core more effectively, which is essential for preventing injury when attempting PRs. Recommended Features: Look for a belt with a thick, sturdy material, a secure buckle, and the right width to support both your lower back and core. A lever belt provides fast adjustments, while a prong belt allows for fine-tuned adjustments. Top Picks: Pioneer Fitness Powerlifting Belt – Made from high-quality leather, providing excellent support and durability. Rogue Ohio Lifting Belt – Offers solid back support, making it great for maximum lifts. 4. Knee Sleeves for Joint Compression and Warmth Why They're Beneficial: Knee sleeves provide compression to the knee joint, helping with stability and pain relief during squats and deadlifts. They keep the knees warm and supported, reducing the risk of injury when pushing your limits. Recommended Features: Opt for knee sleeves that offer both compression and warmth, typically made from thick neoprene. The ideal fit should allow for movement without slipping. Top Picks: SBD Knee Sleeves – One of the best for providing compression and warmth for heavy squats and other lower body lifts. Rehband Knee Sleeves – Known for their comfort and durability, they are widely used by both beginners and seasoned lifters. 5. Compression Shorts for Lower Body Stability Why They're Helpful: Compression shorts provide support to the hips, glutes, and thighs, helping to stabilize the lower body during heavy leg lifts like squats and deadlifts. They also improve blood circulation, which aids in recovery and reduces muscle fatigue. Recommended Features: Look for compression shorts that offer firm yet comfortable support, with materials that wick away sweat and enhance flexibility. Top Picks: 2XU Compression Shorts – Offers optimal muscle support and recovery for lower body exercises. Under Armour Men’s HeatGear Compression Shorts – Known for their breathability and fit, perfect for heavy lifting. 6. Lifting Straps for Improved Grip Strength Why They're Necessary: Lifting straps are helpful when your grip gives out before your muscles during heavy pulls, like deadlifts or rows. They help secure the bar and allow you to lift heavier weights without the fear of dropping it due to grip failure. Recommended Features: Choose straps that are made from durable materials such as cotton, leather, or nylon. They should be long enough to wrap around the bar multiple times, offering a secure hold. Top Picks: Harbinger Lifting Straps – Affordable yet highly durable, these straps offer great grip support. Rogue Fitness Lifting Straps – Known for their superior grip and strength, perfect for heavy lifting sessions. 7. Neck and Shoulder Supports for Overhead Lifts Why They're Beneficial: Overhead lifts can put a strain on the neck and shoulders, especially when attempting PRs. Neck and shoulder supports help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain during overhead movements. Recommended Features: Look for supports that provide firm compression while offering flexibility for movement. They should also be lightweight and breathable for comfort during intense lifts. Top Picks: Mark Bell’s Sling Shot – Offers excellent shoulder support for overhead lifts, preventing strain and discomfort. ProFitness Lifting Straps – Ideal for shoulder mobility and reducing strain during heavy overhead presses.
