Jul 22, 2022

Wrist Wraps - What, How, Why

INTRO

As we get stronger in our gym journey, push past the weights that once seemed impossible to crush, work through our injuries and obstacles its important we equip ourselves with the best lifting gear to support us on this journey. Whether its boosting your bench press, supporting Wrist Wraps are one those small, light and portable pieces of equipment that help both beginners and advanced athletes stay stronger for longer. Lets dive into more info on Wrist Wraps.

HISTORY

The first wrist wrap was created by Vitold Drosness, a Russian while living in New York back in 1901. Ironically, the wrist wraps were created not for sports purposes but to help manual workers support their wrist. They were made of leather with buckles as seen in the picture below.

Within a decade advancements were made and the wrist supports were adapted for sports, mainly golf.

Within a few years the strength world and other sports like billiards caught up and as we say, the rest is history.

TYPES

CONVENTIONAL WRIST WRAPS

Used by 90% of the Strength & Fitness Industry in Powerlifting, Bodybuilding, Strongman/Strongwoman Athletes, Olympic Weightlifters, Crossfit Athletes and majority of gym goers around the world. They come in various lengths and strengths. The strength of Wrist Wraps are based on the material and stretch, generally you have Light, Regular, Stiff and Super Stiff. At Gen. Strong we sell the Regular and Stiff ones which are the most versatile and commonly used.

CROSSFIT WRAPS

Crossfit Wraps in general are used by the CrossFit community, are lighter in strength compared to conventional wraps and serve as a better tool in the Crossfit space where a little more wrist mobility is required. They are generally made of fabric (usually cotton) and come with an open ended lace / tie at the end. At the Gen. Strong store you should see some of our own variations soon.

CLOTH WRAPS / BOXING WRAPS

Cloth wraps are more popular in the martial arts world also know as boxing wraps or hand wraps, used widely by boxers and kickboxers. The primary purpose of these are not to cushion the impact but to support the bones and loose joints of the fighter. They are generally made up of a cotton polyester blend or 100% cotton and they vary in length depending on preference. At Gen. Strong our Hand Wraps are made with a premium 100% organic cotton fabric and super strong velcro to give you maximum support.

WHY TO USE WRIST WRAPS

1. To protect against injury from Hyper Extension of the wrist.

2. Joint Stacking - When joint and bones are aligned and stacked correctly they allow for maximal force production - hence Lift Heavier.

3. Reduce strain on joints and muscle.

Wrist Hyperextension

ADVANTAGES OF WRIST WRAPS

1. They are inexpensive

2. Easy to carry

3. They are extremely versatile and can be used for many exercises

4. They provide joint and muscle support reducing the risk of injury

5. They can help you lift heavier

WHEN DO WE USE WRIST WRAPS

Wrist Wraps are used mainly when there is a risk of wrist hyperextension, usually this occurs in pressing movements, squats and some rowing movements. Generally, we you wear wrist wraps once your wrist wraps once your warm up and lighter sets are done.

EXERCISES

1. Barbell Over Head Press

2. Dumbell Over Head Press

3. Barbell Bench Press

4. Dumbell Bench Press

5. Barbell Back & Front Squats

6. Dips

These are just a few, the list can go on.

HOW TO WEAR WRIST WRAPS

1. Feed the velcro end through the wrist loop

2. Feed hand through the loop created

3. Tighten by pulling the velcro end away from the wrist loop

4. Wrap around your wrist joint & secure.

HOW OUR WRIST WRAPS ARE DIFFERENT

1. Design

2. Wrist Loop

3. Width

4. Rubber Velcro Fastner

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