Double Overhand vs Lifting Straps – which is best?
When the weights get heavy, the grip often becomes the limiting factor. Many strength trainers therefore face the choice between continuing with a traditional double overhand grip or starting to use lifting straps.
Both methods have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your training goal.
What is double overhand?
Double overhand means both hands hold the bar with an overhand grip.
It is the most natural way to lift and is used by most at the start of their strength training journey.
Double overhand is especially good for:
- Heating set
- Grip strength training
- Lighter weights
- Technique training
What are lifting straps?
Lifting straps are wrapped around the wrist and bar to create a stronger connection between hand and weight.
Straps are used by many bodybuilders and strength trainers to ensure that the grip does not become the limiting factor.
Advantages of double overhand
✓ Naturally strengthens the grip
The grip is trained every time you lift.
✓ Symmetrical grip
Both hands work equally.
✓ Simple and effective
Requires no extra equipment.
Disadvantages of double overhand
The grip quickly becomes the limiting factor
Especially with heavy lifts.
Often limits back training
Many experience that the hands give out before the back.
Difficult with high volume
The grip quickly becomes fatigued.
Advantages of lifting straps
Better muscle contact
Focus shifts from forearms to back muscles.
More quality repetitions
The grip does not limit the set.
Perfect for high volume
Ideal for bodybuilding and hypertrophy.
More comfort
Less strain on hands and forearms.
When should you use double overhand?
Double overhand especially makes sense if:
- You are training grip strength.
- You are in the warm-up sets.
- The weights are still relatively light.
- You want maximum challenge for the forearms.
When should you use straps?
Lifting straps especially make sense if:
- The grip gives out before the back.
- You train close to exhaustion.
- The goal is muscle building.
- You want more good repetitions.
- You do heavy working sets.
The best solution is often both
Many experienced strength trainers use:
Double overhand on warm-up sets
To challenge the grip.
Lifting straps on working sets
To ensure maximum muscle contact and volume.
That way you get the benefits of both worlds.
Which straps are best?
At MakeIt, there are several models:
StrapIt Standard
The most popular choice.
StrapIt Premium
Extra comfort during heavy lifts.
StrapIt Short
Perfect for smaller hands and popular for rows and pulldowns.
Danish-produced lifting straps since 2014
At MakeIt, we have produced StrapIt lifting straps in Denmark since 2014.
More than 50,000 pairs have been sold to strength trainers across Europe, and all models are developed with a focus on quality, comfort, and durability.
Conclusion
Double overhand and lifting straps are not opposites.
On the contrary.
Many of the best strength trainers combine both to develop grip and get maximum muscle contact during heavy lifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are straps better than double overhand?
It depends on the goal. For muscle building, many prefer straps, while double overhand is good for grip strength.
Do you lose grip strength with straps?
No, not if used strategically.
Should you use straps for all sets?
No. Many only use them on the heaviest working sets.
Is double overhand best for beginners?
Yes, it is often the natural way to start.
What do bodybuilders use?
Many bodybuilders combine double overhand and straps.
Related articles
If you want to learn more about lifting straps, grip strength, and get more out of your strength training, you can also read:
