It’s no secret that the key to an effective workout is finding the right tightness. Too loose, and you won’t get the support you need. Too tight, and you could end up hurting yourself. So how do you find that sweet spot? Why does powerlifting belt tightness matter? Wearing a weightlifting belt too loose can result in the belt slipping during lifts, which can be dangerous. On the other hand, wearing a weightlifting belt too tight can restrict breathing and cause discomfort. The ideal tightness for a weightlifting belt is when the belt is snug against the body but does not impede breathing.  ..read more

Few activities are as exhilarating as weightlifting. Lifting heavy weights can make you feel strong, and it’s a great way to get in shape. However, weightlifting can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Injuries are common among weightlifters, especially beginners. But with a few simple precautions, you can avoid most weightlifting injuries. Causes of Powerlifting Injuries Many factors can cause powerlifting injuries, such as bad technique, not warming up properly, and improper weightlifting equipment. Several health conditions, including osteoporosis and arthritis, can cause ..read more

If you head into your local gym, you will likely see nylon or leather lifting belts floating around the weight-lifting section. While both options are excellent at reducing the strain on your lower back and helping you maintain good posture, you must be aware of each belt’s pros and cons. Why the Debate Between Nylon and Leather? The leather vs. nylon lifting belt debate remains one of the most popular arguments among gym crowds, with most lifters camping on either side of the fence. However, while both belts offer advantages and disadvantages, the strap you choose will likely depend on your f ..read more

When it comes to lifting heavy weights off the ground, there are two primary ways to do it – sumo vs conventional deadlift. Both exercises are effective in their own way and target different muscle groups. What is a sumo deadlift?  The sumo deadlift is a variation of the traditional deadlift. The weight is positioned on the toes, with the shins close to vertical and hands inside the knees. The lifter bends at the hips and knees, lowering the torso towards the ground until it is just above or parallel to it. The sumo deadlift, as you can imagine, comes from Japan. It was a rarity outside o ..read more

You’ve probably stared at a pro, at the gym, or on the TV screens wearing those new-fangled elbow sleeves. On a tennis match, a soccer field, or a bodybuilding event. Probably thinking to yourself, “why in God’s name do they simply not wear a long sleeve shirt?” Well, there’s a reason for that. Elbow sleeves for lifting, according to one scientific study, lower blood lactate levels and blood pooling thanks to their main feature — compression. Those two hoodlums, lactate levels, and blood pooling ate the main culprits that cause swelling and pain. With that little nugget of wisdom now embedded ..read more

When it comes to powerlifting, having the right straps can mean the difference between success and failure. Figure 8 lifting straps vs normal straps each have their advantages and disadvantages. Straps are a critical tool for your training session — In a nutshell, they are your first line of defense to avoid injuries and build muscle. In this article, we’re going to give you the inside scoop on two of the most commonly used straps in the sport, figure 6 straps, and normal straps. What they are, how they work, and why you need them. Are Figure 8 wrist straps better?  Figure 8 wrist straps ..read more

Everyone loves a good bench press. An athlete might skip leg day, but they’ll never skip chest day. Bench-pressing is fun, iconic, and warrior-like. The training routine is the first thing that pops into a person’s mind when it comes to lifting weights. They are how you get that Marvel physique. And athletes tend to go bonkers for them — even a bit overboard when it comes to their sets, their limits, their whole attitude towards them. That enthusiasm, more than once, comes back and bites us in the ass in the form of injuries. In this article, we’re going to talk about one of the most common sp ..read more

Lifters who are serious about their sport love their gear. This is because having the right equipment will improve performance, reduce fatigue, and keep you from getting an injury. So, how about using wrist wraps? Do they need to be in a weightlifter’s gym bag? A powerlifter, weightlifter, Crossfitter, or bodybuilder will always say “yes” to that question. The benefits mentioned above will be discussed in more depth in this article. Therefore, continue reading, and let’s get started! What are wrist wraps for lifting? ·       It provides a secure and comfortable grip for weight l ..read more

There is a common practice among powerlifters and other athletes to sniff ammonia before a strong lift or during a competition. However, I will explain why so many powerlifters still frequently engage in the practice, what ammonia truly does to your body, and if it is safe to use. The evidence on the usefulness of sniffing ammonia for strength performance is quite limited and deserves additional exploration. What Are Smelling Salts/Ammonia? Ammonia (NH3) is a nitrogen-hydrogen compound that, at normal temperature, exists as a colorless gas with a pungent smell. Bottles or capsules of what appe ..read more

Raw vs equipped powerlifting is a long-standing debate within the strength training community. Some lifters prefer the simplicity of raw lifting, while others find that the added support of equipment can help them to lift heavier weights and achieve their goals more quickly. So, which approach is more effective? What is the Difference Between Raw and Equipped Powerlifting? Raw powerlifting and equipped powerlifting are two different types of sports with different rules and regulations. In raw powerlifting, competitors are not allowed to use any type of supportive equipment, such as a weightlif ..read more