How much can you lift with straps?
There is no exact answer.
How much of a difference straps make depends on how much your grip limits you.
For some, straps make almost no difference.
For others, they can make a very big difference because the grip is the weakest factor in heavy pulling exercises.
Why can you often lift more with straps?
When the weights get heavy, it is often the hands and forearms that give out first.
The back, hamstrings, and glutes often have more reps left.
Straps help to:
- Improve grip.
- Hold onto the bar.
- Reduce the load on the forearms.
- Focus on the large muscle groups.
How many kilos do straps add?
It varies from person to person.
Some experience:
- No difference.
- 5-10 kg extra.
- 20 kg or more.
The more your grip limits you, the bigger difference straps will typically make.
Which exercises show the biggest difference?
Straps typically make the biggest difference in:
Deadlifts
The most popular exercise to use straps for.
Romanian Deadlifts
Long time under tension challenges the grip.
Barbell Rows
Many get better contact with the back.
T-Bar Rows
Perfect for high volume.
Shrugs
The grip often gives out before the traps.
Does that mean you get stronger?
Not necessarily.
Straps do not make your muscles stronger.
They simply help ensure that the grip is not the limiting factor.
This means you can get more out of your working sets and focus on the muscles you want to develop.
Are straps cheating?
No.
Straps are a training tool just like:
- Weightlifting belts.
- Wrist wraps.
- Knee sleeves.
They are used by recreational lifters, bodybuilders, and powerlifters alike.
Do professional bodybuilders use straps?
Yes.
Many professional bodybuilders use straps on almost all heavy back exercises.
Their goal is maximum muscle contact and high training volume.
Should you use straps for all sets?
No.
Many choose:
Warm-up sets without straps.
Working sets with straps.
This provides both grip training and maximum stimulation of the back.
Which straps are best?
At MakeIt, there are several models.
StrapIt Standard
The most popular choice.
StrapIt Premium
Extra comfort for high volume.
StrapIt Short
Perfect for rows, pulldowns, and smaller hands.
Danish-made 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 our straps are developed with a focus on quality, comfort, and durability.
Conclusion
How much more you can lift with straps depends on how much your grip limits you.
For many, straps are not a shortcut but a tool that makes it possible to focus on the back and get more quality repetitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kilos do straps add?
It varies from person to person. Many experience a difference between 5 and 20 kg.
Do straps make you stronger?
Straps do not make muscles stronger, but they can help you get more out of your sets.
Are straps cheating?
No.
Do professional bodybuilders use straps?
Yes, it is very common.
Which exercises show the biggest difference with straps?
Deadlifts, Romanian Deadlifts, rows, and shrugs.
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:
