Moving past the debate of whether to use straps or not while training, which style is best if you choose to employ these in your back workouts? Are Versa Gripps better than straps?
As a former NPC competitive bodybuilder in West Palm Beach, Florida, I’ve heard arguments for both sides. Below are some comparisons and opinions of each style.
Durability: Versa Gripps vs. Straps
As far as durability goes, I can’t really separate one from being more durable than the other. A lot of factors will play into how long your lifting straps last: How much does someone perspire? How are straps stored between usage? What kind of workload is placed on each by the individual? These are all factors that play into durability, but with that said, replacing straps is much, much cheaper than buying new Versa Gripps. To the tune of up to $50 cheaper!
Performance: Versa Gripps vs. Straps
For the most part, I’ll give the edge to Versa Gripps over traditional straps in this department. Although the difference isn’t monumental, it can lead to an extra couple reps at the end of a set when Versa Gripps are used over the straps. One factor that I mentioned above that can play into the straps being the better choice is sweaty hands. With that said though, I still give the edge to Versa Gripps in this department.
Comfort: Versa Gripps vs. Straps
Once again, I think the nod goes to Versa Gripps when it comes to comfort. Being a long time user of lifting straps, I can attest to the “beating” that straps can place directly on the wrists, sometimes leavings marks for several hours. Somehow with Versa Gripps, the stress is spread more evenly throughout and not in a circle directly around the wrists. Some straps come with padding but that still isn’t enough to overcome the smoothness of the Versa Gripps.
With all this said and coupled with ease of use, Versa Gripps seem to have a clear advantage in the debate of which style is best. One thing I’ve always said when training people at our private fitness studio is, whichever style you prefer, using either one provides us with a clear advantage of not using them at all.
To find out more regarding personal training, nutritional advice or any other fitness need you might have, please call 561-223-1112 Ext.1 to speak with certified trainer Dave Melnicoff or contact us to schedule a consultation!
