Do Wrist Wraps Really Help?
A closer look at their effect on barbell bench press performance.
This study investigated the impact of wrist wraps on performance during barbell bench presses. Here’s how that went.
Key Points
Objective: The study aimed to determine whether using wrist wraps during the bench press affects performance metrics such as maximum load lifted and repetitions completed.
Methodology: Participants were divided into two groups: one group performed bench presses with wrist wraps, while the other group did so without them. The study measured variables such as maximum weight lifted and the number of repetitions at a given percentage of their one-rep max.
Participants: The study included trained individuals (male and female), ensuring that results would be relevant to those who regularly engage in resistance training.
Results: The findings indicated that there were no significant differences in performance metrics between the two groups. Both groups demonstrated similar strength outputs in terms of maximum load and repetitions.
Related
Key Takeaways
Effectiveness of Wrist Wraps: The study concludes that wrist wraps do not provide a performance advantage for individuals performing barbell bench presses.
Perceived Benefits: While wrist wraps did not significantly impact bench press-specific strength and power, participants still reported feeling greater stability when using them, despite experiencing increased discomfort.
Implications for Training: Athletes and trainers may reconsider the necessity of wrist wraps for enhancing bench press performance, as they do not appear to contribute to increased strength or endurance during this specific exercise.
Future Research: The authors suggest that further studies could explore different populations or variations in exercise to fully understand the role of wrist wraps in resistance training.
In summary, this study provides evidence that wrist wraps do not significantly influence performance in barbell bench pressing, prompting a reevaluation of their necessity in strength training routines.
Reference
Harris, Dillon R.; Harris, Dakota R.; Cardaci, Thomas D.; Cintineo, Harry P.; Funderburk, Leslee K.; Machek, Steven B. Wrist Wraps Do Not Affect Barbell Bench Press Muscular Strength, Power, or Endurance in Resistance-Trained Men and Women. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research ():10.1519/JSC.0000000000004930, September 17, 2024. | DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004930