Lifting Straps

How to choose lifting straps

Lifting straps (in German: Zughilfen) take your grip out of the equation on heavy pulls, so your back and legs can work to their limit on deadlifts, rows, shrugs and high pulls.

Loop or single strap: classic straps wrap around the bar; figure-8 straps lock you in for very heavy deadlifts.

Length: longer straps wrap more times and hold tighter, shorter straps are faster to release, which matters in Olympic lifting.

Use them selectively: keep straps for your heaviest sets and train grip strength on the rest.

Learn how to wrap them in our lifting straps guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do lifting straps make my grip weaker?
Not if you use them only for your heaviest sets. Lift lighter sets without straps and add direct grip work.

Are lifting straps allowed in CrossFit workouts?
In competitions it depends on the rules of the event. In training you can use them for heavy pulls.

Short or long lifting straps?
Long straps hold tighter for heavy deadlifts, short straps release quickly for snatches and cleans.