Tag: Equipment Review

Best Complete Home Gyms For Bodybuilding & Gains (Updated 2021)

Best Complete Home Gyms For Bodybuilding & Gains (Updated 2021)

These top rated home gyms for bodybuilding are great for providing a complete home gym in the comfort of your own home.
Going to the gym can be fun but bodybuilding from home can help build gains conveniently. And while going to a gym is essential for our gains, top rated home gyms have become increasingly popular and it’s no wonder why. Able to give us privacy and convenience by working out in the comfort of our own homes is something we all would love to have. While this luxury may seem far away for you, this list below may hold the key to unlocking those at-home gains you want most.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Home Gyms for 2021 so you have the best chance at seeing serious at-home gains. With the luxury and convenience of a gym in your home, there’s no excuse not to see that desired physique come to life.
Best Home Gyms For 2021

Best Home Gym Overall
A great all-around home gym will provide for a complete set so you can maximize your workouts with the best attachments. While it will have many components, it will be easy to use so you never have to worry or stress about your workouts and a top rated home gym will seriously boost your gains.
Force USA G9 All-In-One Trainer
Force USA G9 is the ultimate plate loaded all-in-one trainer to capitalize on your home gym goals. Engineered to be tough, sturdy, and versatile, the options are endless to see gains. What makes this home gym so complete is that it combines a power rack, smith machine, cable pulley, chin-up station, dip station, vertical leg press, low row, and core trainer to have all the strength training machines you need in one unit. With built in storage for barbells and other weights, as well as attachments, this can help keep you organized and is a great overall home gym.

Force USA G9 All-In-One Trainer is a tough, sturdy, and versatile training system. This 8-in-1 system offers 11 attachments for any style of training.

Pros

Packed with a number of training machines in one for convenience
Built well to be durable and stable
The space for weights and attachments alleviates any clutter

Cons

Premium priced option but you do get a lot included

Price: $2,999.99

Best Bodybuilding Home Gym
Bodybuilders and those looking to build a great physique should look to this top rated home gym for all it can offer. You want to hit every muscle group to keep symmetry while increasing strength and size and the right home gym can do that.
Force USA G20 All In One Trainer
Force USA G20 All In One Trainer offers over 400 exercises and acts as 11 different training systems in one. With 29 attachments and a convenient walk through design, you get a more than complete home gym for all your workout needs. This home gym includes dual integrated weight stacks totaling 289 lbs., a 1:1 pulley ratio, and is easy to use with plates or stack weights. For all your bodybuilding complete home gym needs, this all in one home gym is certainly a great option.

Force USA G20 All-In-One Trainer offers over 400 exercises with 11 different training systems. The convenient walk through design offers versatility for any workout you need.

Pros

Over 400 exercises can be performed and 29 attachments
A compact multi-station machine with convenient walk through
578 lbs. total of stack weights

Cons

Premium priced option
Will take up a lot of space as this is a complete home gym

Price: $6,999.99

Best Bowflex Home Gym
Bowflex is a leading company when it comes to sports equipment and there top rated home gyms are no different. The best Bowflex home gym will prove to be very worthwhile for all your gains.
Bowflex Home Gym Series
Bowflex Home Gym Series offers 65+ full body workouts for your chest, shoulders, back, arms, and legs so all your muscle groups can be hit. A heavy duty steel frame ensures durability and longevity while also making sure this keeps its shape. Included as well are an adjustable and quick release seat with a high density foam cushion and a multiple cable pulley system to customize your workouts. With 210 lbs. of weight in the form of power rods, these can be upgraded to more weight if need be.

Bowflex Home Gym Series offers 65+ full body workouts. A heavy duty steel frame allows for durability and a high-density foam cushion ensures comfort.

Pros

65+ exercises is great for targeting upper and lower body needs
High-quality steel frame ensures durability and longevity
High-density foam cushion provides comfort and the pulley system allows for customization

Cons

Not as complete as others on the market
Weights are in the form of power rods instead of plates for those looking for that option

Price: $749.99

Best Entry Level Home Gym
Those just starting out may be looking for a complete home gym, but know you only need select equipment to start. Once you get comfortable with it, then you can increase to the bigger top rated home gyms.
Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System
Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System is a combination of a chest press and fly station with a 4-roll leg developer and low pulley to hit your back. A multi-grip lat bar and vinyl seats provide comfort in terms of grip and positioning and are made of quality material for durability. With 280 lbs. of resistance, you get a full workout to target all those complete home gym needs.

Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System offers a great combination of exercises with durable and quality material. A multi-grip bar and vinyl seats allows optimal comfort.

Pros

Components to this machine allow you to work upper and lower body muscles
Designed for comfort and durability which is what you want
Easy to use and simple to assemble

Cons

Amount of weight seems like a lot but the increments jump up larger than normal

Price: $372.00

Best Home Gym Squat Rack
Having a squat rack is great for working both upper and lower body muscles. You get a great free weight workout from the comfort of your own home with a quality squat rack to provide the bones for a top rated home gym.
Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack is the first fully modular power rack that doesn’t need to be mounted to the wall. This offers more interior space and holds twice the weight to maximize your workouts. The training options are endless with ten attachments and this versatile power rack can be used for squats, bench presses, deadlifts, and much more. Durable with industrial strength construction allows for added stability to maximize safety and promote better longevity out this top home gym.

Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack is convenient, durable, and very stable. With 10 attachment options, you can perform a variety of exercises.

Pros

Ten attachments offer a variety of workouts
Industrial strength construction is great for safety and stability
Doesn’t need to be mounted to the wall
Innovative fold away design to save space

Cons

Need other equipment like bench and barbells to complete this home gym

Price: $599.99

Best Home Gym Power Rack
A power rack is perfect for those looking to increase their powerlifts and lift serious weight. The right rack that can be easily adjusted is exactly what you need to round out a top rated home gym.
Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack
Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack is the first customizable modular rack that allows for 20 attachments including things like chin-up bars, cable crossovers, and other cable attachments. Heavy-duty steel uprights allow for reliability, durability, and stability so you can get the best workout possible. A power rack should work for all your needs and the ability to toss on attachments can work wonders for all your gains.

Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack is a customizable modular power rack with over 20 attachments. Heavy-duty steel uprights offer durable and stability.

Pros

Ability for 20 attachments to boost all your workouts
Heavy-duty steel uprights are great for durability and stability
Versatile design allows for all your workouts either bolted to the floor or freestanding

Cons

Have to pay for the added attachments to make this a complete home gym

Price: $399.99

Best Home Gym Squat Stand with Pull Up
Finding the space to do pull-ups can be challenging. The right stand and home gym can allow you to perform pull-ups for the best benefits around.
Titan Fitness X-3 Series Half Rack Conversion Kit
Titan Fitness X-3 Series Half Rack Conversion Kit allows you to turn the squat stand into a half rack for added versatility and stability. The easy conversion allows for more weight to be stored and increases the options for a safety spotter so you can lift bigger weight for that increased strength and size. Made of heavy duty steel uprights, this ensures stability and longevity of the product and 6-inch hold spacing up the entire upright offers the best for adjusting the height of the holder.

Titan Fitness X-3 Series Half Rack Conversion Kit allows for simple conversion instantly with durability and stability. The conversion allows for more weight storage and increased safety spotter positions.

Pros

Easy conversion to a half rack for versatility and stability
Heavy duty steel uprights are great for longevity and overall durability
6-inch hold spacing allows for great options to adjust the holder

Cons

Need other equipment to make this a complete home gym which is an added expense

Price: $179.99-$259.99 (this depends on if weight plate holders are included or not)

Best Home Gym for Powerlifters
Powerlifters looking to boost their PRs should look no further than a great home gym. Any rack that combines the ability to perform all of those powerlifts is essential and worthwhile.
Titan Fitness Competition Bench And Squat Rack Combo
Titan Fitness Competition Bench And Squat Rack Combo allows you to sculpt your body by offering many exercises or give you the best chance at boosting your overall strength and size as a powerlifter with the ability to tackle the big three powerlifts. With an easy to remove bench, you can tackle your squat needs and the adjustable bench allows you to optimize your height for the best chance at an effective workout. Durable steel construction ensures durability and a powder coat paint job prevents rust and corrosion for increased longevity of this top of the line power rack.

Titan Fitness Competition Bench And Squat Rack Combo allows for effective upper and lower body workouts. Durable steel construction offers durability and a powder-coat paint job prevents rust and corrosion.

Pros

Easily adjustable bench and squat hooks to tackle all workouts
Great for powerlifters looking to increase strength and size with their powerlifts
Durable steel construction ensures longevity and stability

Cons

Rack height may not be as easy to adjust as with other racks

Price: $999.99

Best Smart Home Gym for Lifters
With fitness technology on the rise, a smart home gym can be a game changer. Allowing more interactive workouts, you get everything you need with a smart home gym designed for lifters.
Echelon Reflect Smart Connect Fitness Mirrors
Echelon Reflect Smart Connect Fitness Mirrors allow you to see your reflection on screen as a trainer guides you step by step to complete a great workout. A built-in camera allows you to connect to your choice of personal trainers from the comfort of your own home and delivers a multitude of training methods. While this may not be your traditional complete home gym, it certainly is one that may be the future. Easy to use, sweat proof, and a WIFI enabled touch screen display offers a fully immersive experience and a great home workout.

Echelon Reflect Smart Connect Fitness Mirrors allow you to see your reflection on screen as a trainer guides you through workouts. A built-in camera connects you to trainers for a fully immersive workout.

Pros

Interactive way to see a trainer from your home
Easy to use and won’t intrude on your space
Great variety of exercises and other forms of exercise

Cons

Not a traditional home gym where you can lift physical weight with different attachments
You need a membership to experience a variety of workouts

Price: $1,499.99

Best Home Gym For Convenience
Convenience is a big deal and you want your complete home gym to be functional and out of the way. The right portable gym will be easy to use and easy to store for all your needs.
Marcy Multifunctional Home Gym Station
Marcy Multifunctional Home Gym Station is a premium steel home gym to maximize total body training. With 150 lbs. of weight stack that can be customized to any skill level, this will work to avoid the stress of loading and unloading weight plates. The dual action press arms are designed for you to perform upper body exercises easily and with convenience, along with the removeable curl pad. A convenient home gym, Marcy Multifunctional Home Gym Station is one to enjoy efficient training with an innovative structure for comprehensive and effective full body workouts.

Marcy 150-lb Multifunctional Home Gym Station is made of premium steel for real durability. A 150lbs. selective weight offers the best for a variety of exercises.

Pros

Well-built and a great design to maximize both upper and lower body workouts
Great for convenience with an innovative structure

Cons

Not as much included as some of the others
Assembly can be quite the challenge

Price: $513.56

Benefits Of A Complete Home Gym
While many of these benefits may seem self-explanatory, it’s important to make sure we make note of them because this can be a big decision financially. Knowing just what these machines can do may just tip the scales for the decisions to buy.
Benefits of a top rated home gym include:

Build strength and size: Of course, with a home gym, and one that offers many options for workouts, you can build strength and size in no time.
Ultimate convenience: Having this in your home saves you time and energy of getting to the gym and dealing with the hassle that goes along with it.
Increased privacy: While you may not be self-conscious about going to the gym, having a home gym is nice to have that added level of privacy so you can grind away.
Good long term investment: At the end of the day, a gym membership can be costly. Also, if you buy individual equipment that can add up to so why not catapult those gains with one machine.
Hygiene and no sharing: While we aren’t all germaphobes, having your own home gym limits the need to worry about hygiene as much as you would if you go to the gym.

What To Look For in These Top Rated Home Gyms
Knowing what to look for can really help make that decision easier when looking at a good home gym.

Key pieces included

Look at what the gym has to offer. With attachments and capabilities to do a number of exercises, make sure the one for you has everything you need to have a fun, engaging, and muscle building workout. Many of these complete home gyms offer tons of attachments so you can really get a well-rounded workout perfect for all your goals.

Quality and Durability

As a long term investment, make sure your home gym is built to last with high-quality pieces and overall durability. These top-rated home gyms are exactly what you need out of the best companies and products to ensure longevity and continued gains.

These home gyms will come in different sizes and depending on the space you have allocated for this gym, make sure it fits comfortably so it doesn’t obstruct your home. An all-in-one home gym may seem like it can cause clutter, but the right one can provide for all your gains while still being out of the way.

We go back to price. Make sure this fits in your budget but remember the benefits that come along with potentially upgrading to a slightly more expensive option. Top home gyms can obviously be expensive, but outweighing the pros and cons can help make a better decision.
How We Choose The Best Home Gyms
When looking at the best home gyms, our team knows this can be a big investment, but one worth making. While these tend to be expensive, the long term investment is something to keep in mind. Price is a major factor for us when choosing the best home gyms, but we also look at other factors that will contribute to a gym being at the top of its game. Functionality and amenities included are a huge draw, for the more a home gym can offer, the better you’ll be as you seek to build muscle and lean down. Space and convenience of the home gym is something to consider as well, for we know finding the space to have such a large machine can be challenging. If you do have the luxury of a space for this, it really is something that can truly help your fitness journey. Of course, reputability of the brand is very important to us because you deserve honesty and transparency with all your products.

FAQ Section For Top Rated Home Gyms
What is the best home gym?
Force USA G9. This is the ultimate plate loaded all-in-one trainer to capitalize on your home gym goals. Engineered to be tough, sturdy, and versatile, the options are endless to see gains. What makes this home gym so complete is that it combines a power rack, smith machine, cable pulley, chin-up station, dip station, vertical leg press, low row, and core trainer to have all the strength training machines you need in one unit.
Can I get a full body workout done on these home gyms?
Absolutely. They are designed so you can elevate your training and performance with multiple exercises while working multiple muscle groups. You can really work to get a total body pump right in the comfort of your own home.
They all look like great options! How can I choose?
They are all great options and we took the time to get the best for this list. If you are struggling with a decision, look at some easy objective factors being price and space. Then think about your goals and which gym will allow you to get the fastest results. While it will still require hard work and determination, the right gym will offer a fun way for you to get shredded.
Wrap Up
Home gyms are a great way to boost your strength and gains while being in the comfort of your own home. The best home gyms 2021 can enhance all areas of your training by offering privacy and better hygiene, but more importantly, a space for you to work hard with ease and convenience. Check out this list above for some great home gyms and work to boost those at-home gains today.

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Best Powerlifting Gym Bag: King Kong Apparel CORE35 Review

Best Powerlifting Gym Bag: King Kong Apparel CORE35 Review

Designed for lifters, this gym bag is exactly what you need to look good and see gains in the gym.
Product Overview
When looking to maximize our gains in the gym, we all have certain products and equipment to help us. Supplements like pre-workout and protein powders ensure our nutrition stays on point to see energy, growth, and added recovery. A weightlifting belt and lifting straps keep us strong and stable during those big lifts so we stay away from injury. But too often do we neglect one important piece of our weightlifting journey. A gym bag is essential, and a high-quality one at that, to transport all of these important elements of our health and training into the gym with us. King Kong Apparel CORE35 is the right gym bag for you to see those gains you want most inside and out of the gym.
To neglect a bag that offers style and comfort, and of course space as you flaunt that shredded physique into the gym, would be a terrible disservice to you. When looking for a great gym bag, look no further than to King Kong Apparel as this bag offers everything you could ask for in terms of comfort, space, versatility, and style. One sure fire way to ensure a quality lifting partner, this bag will give you support every time you sling it over your shoulder. Be the one others will envy when you show off not only a toned aesthetic, but stylish gym bag.

King Kong Apparel CORE35 is a high-quality gym duffel bag designed to support all your needs. Durable and lightweight, while also providing space and comfort, this bag is perfect for any gym day. 

King Kong Apparel was founded in 2011 with the idea to make the most functional gym bag while still being of the highest quality so athletes everywhere never had to worry about their bags. By working to reinvent the vision of what a good gym bag is, King Kong challenged the status quo and successfully put top tier products on the market. Valuing intelligence, performance, and community, King Kong seeks to better the lives of their consumers by giving them gear that works for their benefit only.
King Kong Apparel CORE35 Highlights
The CORE35 is a high-quality gym duffel bag made to support any and all of your needs. Designed for lifters and made for maxing out space so you fit all the essentials into your bag, you may have just found your new lifting partner, and an incredibly loyal one at that. The CORE35 was designed to solve all your packing problems so you can pack your bag with ease. The CORE35 holds a capacity of 35L (9.2 gal) with the following dimensions: height of 28cm (11’’), width of 45cm (18’’), and a depth of 28cm (11’’). This ensures everything you need for that grueling workout or off-day recovery fits snug to not ruin anything and cause you headache and discomfort as you lug it around. King Kong sought to make the most functional bags around and with the CORE35 they did that and much more.

Product Features
Design
King Kong CORE35 has many amazing features that set this bag apart from its rivals. When it comes to your lifting belt, the days of cramming it into your bag are over. With the loop around design, you can secure your belt around the bag to save space inside, have easy access, and allow it to maintain that vital curve. Along with the belt, this bag holds up to two pairs of shoes so you can have the option to switch up shoes depending on the given exercise. Multiple external and internal compartments are perfect for storing gear, including an internal shoe compartment and a 13’’ internal laptop sleeve. And of course, an easy access compartment for your bottle or shaker ensures proper hydration throughout.
Quality
The overall quality of this bag is very high. The outer material is tough, durable, and lightweight while also being water resistant and easy to clean, and the inner ripstop nylon lining is incredibly tough. If you wanted, you could throw this bag around the floor, pull the belt in and out, and it would still hold its shape with continued longevity. There is a lifetime warranty and King Kong will fix any manufacturing defects during the practical lifetime of the bag, although any defects are unlikely to happen.

Price & Effectiveness
King Kong CORE35 is a high-quality and top tier gym bag able to hold all your equipment and withstand repeated abuse of always being in the gym. This bag comes in two sizes available, 35L and 51L, and in three colors: Black, Desert, and Charcoal.
Pros

Stores belt on the outside
Huge internal capacity
Multiple compartments for all your gear
Great quality and durability to ensure longevity

Cons

If your shoes are larger than US size 13 Mens, then the CORE51 with its larger shoe compartment is a better match for you

Price: $129.95
Overall Value
King Kong CORE35 is a great gym duffel bag to tackle any and all of your needs. Able to fit all your equipment and added gear, the headache of trying to make everything fit is over. King Kong knows the needs of athletes and sought to make the most functional gym bags around and all expectations were exceeded. What you are really getting is a high-quality gym bag with tons of space and great durability from a company who cares deeply about putting the best product out there. Check out King Kong Apparel CORE35 to look good and feel even better as you flaunt your stuff in the gym.
Shop King Kong Apparel CORE35 Here 

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Best Resistance Bands For Home Workouts & Gains (Updated 2021)

Best Resistance Bands For Home Workouts & Gains (Updated 2021)

These resistance bands are perfect for home workouts to boost strength and mobility for your bodybuilding goals.
If you’ve ever trained for strength sports, you’re probably familiar with resistance band. Resistance bands are an essential for anyone serious about maximizing gains, since they really increase the amount of resistance you have to overcome to finish a certain exercise. If you’ve recently sustained an injury, or are looking to get back into working out after some time away, resistance bands are also really helpful to re-acclimate your body to the intensity of working out in a safe way. With a million uses and counting, resistance bands are definitely a cheap, easy, and smart way to take your workout to the next level whether upper or lower body.
Resistance bands have long been thought of as tools for a solid warmup or for rehabbing a recovering or sore muscle. But resistance bands offer way more benefits than just warming up. With simple changes in your workout regimen, resistance bands can make great improvements to your gains and offer challenging and fun workouts that you can do alone or with a partner to keep you as engaged as possible during those grueling at home workouts of different levels.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Resistance Bands for 2021 to really boost your home workouts and bodybuilding goals. When it comes to strength and mobility, look no further than these great bands to boost all areas of your growth and development.
Best Resistance Bands For 2021

Best Resistance Bands Overall
When looking for the best resistance band overall, you want a quality set that will last a while and be of high quality. Able to help cover all your bases will also be very helpful when it comes to your home workouts and bodybuilding goals, including mobility work.
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands offer next level resistance training to improve your overall strength and mobility goals. These bands range from 2 lbs. to 200 lbs. and are made from 15 layers of continuous latex. Portable and functional, you can take these anywhere be it at home or in the gym. Offering 32’’ and a high quality resistance band, Serious Steel has done a great job with this product so you can maintain tension and have a full range of motion throughout your entire workout.

Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands are perfect for strength training and mobility goals. Ranging from 2-200lbs., these bands are portable, functional, and high quality.

Pros

Great for resistance training to improve strength and mobility work
Maintain tension and improve range of motion for the entire workout
Offer a great range from 2 lbs. to 200 lbs.

Cons

If using around certain objects that are sharp, you need a band guard to protect these bands

Price: $36.90

Best Tube Resistance Bands
Tube bands are a helpful type of band for training and having the best bands all around can greatly affect your gains. These are great for strength training, as well as rehab.
Serious Steel Resistance Tube Band Set
Serious Steel Resistance Tube Band Set is a great way to add resistance to your strength training with bands ranging from 10lbs. to 30lbs. in 5lbs. increments. Perfect for all experience levels, these tube bands offer a great way to train and are simple and convenient to use at home or on the road. Included in this set from Serious Steel are five bands, 2 handles, 2 ankle straps, one door anchor, and one carrying bag. Use this set as a complementary tool and watch your gains grow exponentially.

Serious Steel Resistance Tube Band Set is a great way to add resistance to any workout. Perfect for all experience levels, this set comes with bands, handles, ankle straps, and other great accessories.

Pros

Complete set of bands, handles, ankle straps, and other accessories
Resistance ranges from 10-30lbs.
From a reputable company in Serious Steel

Cons

Some durability issues with the overall quality and longevity of the product

Price: $34.95

Best Resistance Bands For Home Muscle Building
When looking to build muscle, it is important to focus on those bands that can help get you there. Your gains don’t have to stop at home and with the right set, your muscle building goals can be easily achieved.
HPYGN Resistance Bands Set
This upgraded resistance bands set from HPYGN is designed to optimize all your fitness needs with better quality bands and more selective accessories. With five different levels of bands, ranging from 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., any combination can be used to enhance your gains. Also included are two hand grips, 2 ankle straps, 1 door anchor, and a carry bag. Perfect for muscle training and fat burning, these bands can help build many muscle groups while working to give you that great aesthetic. Durable, portable, and versatile, this set is perfect for your resistance training at home or at the gym.

HPYGN Resistance Bands Set offers five different levels of bands to enhance your gains. Ranging from 10-50 lbs., these are perfect for muscle building and fat burning.

Pros

Great resistance for strength training
The door anchor is helpful
Quality bands that are versatile and reliable

Cons

Durability is an issue, especially with the lighter bands
Tubes are thin and don’t feel as secure as they could be

Price: $20.97

Best Resistance Bands For Leg Exercises
While resistance bands can greatly influence all sorts of exercises, having a quality set to optimize leg day can be incredibly beneficial. With the right set, you never have to worry about those chicken legs again.
DaHeng Resistance Bands
DaHeng brings this exercise set great for resistance training, especially when it comes to leg exercises. Five bands are included ranging from 10 lbs. to 50 lbs. and all can be stacked for any combination. This set can help sculpt and build muscle for an intense workout, but the ankle straps and door attachment are great for giving those legs a good burn. Perfect for athletes of all experience levels, this set is convenient and affordable for muscle growth, fat burn, improving flexibility and mobility, and more confidence. With this set from DaHeng, you will start to see great results.

DaHeng Resistance Bands include five bands ranging from 10-50 lbs. Convenient and affordable, these are great for growth and mobility, especially for your lower body.

Pros

These bands have two ankle straps great for upper body or lower body workouts
They are pretty sturdy for durability and long term use
Low price point makes them great for at-home workouts to perform better

Cons

Using all the bands at once may cause too much strain which can lead to them snapping
Together, the weight seems more like 100 lbs. as opposed to the advertised 150 lbs.

Price: $29.99

Best Resistance Bands For Heavy Resistance
A common myth is that you can’t get a lot of resistance from bands. With the right set, you can achieve heavy resistance to increase time under tension and really see a boost in muscle growth to get the most out of resistance bands for bodybuilding.
Gymreapers Resistance Bands
Gymreapers Resistance Bands are versatile and work well with customized resistance training either at home or in the gym. These pull-up bands are perfect for assisting the pull-up exercise, as well as others like squats, bench press, and many more. Portable and lightweight, these are perfect for recovery, strength training, and conditioning and allow you to tone and tighten any muscle group. Being 41’’ in length, you can work on maximum resistance with the option to choose from five-color-coded latex bands.

Gymreapers Resistance Bands are versatile and work well with customized resistance training. Portable and lightweight, these 41” bands are great for strength training and conditioning work.

Pros

Great for recovery, strength training, and conditioning
41’’ allows for max time under tension and optimal range of motion
Portable and lightweight to be used anywhere

Cons

Premium priced option compared to others

Price: $84.99

Best Hip Circle Resistance Bands
Smaller bands can be great for warming up and rehab, but also for exercises if need be and resistance bands for joints can greatly help with mobility. The right hip circle bands can ensure quality and durability without having to worry about poor gains.
Sling Shot Mark Bell Hip Circle Resistance Bands
Sling Shot Mark Bell Hip Circle Resistance Bands are great for beginners or professionals and can improve your fitness goals no matter the level you’re at. A multi-use tool, these bands allow for bodyweight exercises, flexibility, mobility, and strength training and can be used anywhere so those gains never stop. These bands are designed for comfort and will not pinch, irritate, roll up, or snap on skin yet are compact and portable for easy carry and use. Being 3’’ wide and made from premium quality material, you can ensure a quality band for all your home workout needs.

Sling Shot Mark Bell Hip Circle Resistance Bands work well for all experience levels when it comes to bodyweight exercises, flexibility, and strength training. Being 3” wide and made of premium quality, these ensure durability and longevity.

Pros

3’’ wide and made from quality material
Designed for comfort for no pinching or rolling up
Great for bodyweight exercises, flexibility, mobility, and strength training

Cons

Band could be a little wider for better use
May be harder to use than typical latex bands

Price: $20.00

Benefits Of Resistance Bands
Resistance bands have the potential to seriously increase strength and size and greatly affect all areas of your home workouts and resistance bands for bodybuilding can also help you hit your goals. When it comes to improving strength and mobility, having the right workout equipment can work wonders and really be great fitness aids.
Good resistance bands will:

Provide for a solid warmup: Really prime your muscles, get your blood flowing, and increase your heart rate for maximum performance during those gym or home workouts.
Build muscle: By working on mind-muscle connection and increasing strength and size to not only see growth and definition but also enhanced lifts (1).
Improve range of motion: By working often times overlooked muscles who seek attention and creating a solid and stable platform to perform big lifts as well as increase flexibility and mobility (2) with resistance bands for joints.
Build mind-muscle connection: See effective gains and allow you to focus on form over total amount of weight (3).

Types Of Bands
With many options for bands on the market, the choices allow for more diversity in your workouts and better options overall. The heavy-duty resistance bands are a great choice, and arguably the best option, because they can be used for all aspects of the workout. From a pre-workout stretch, to a supplemental aid during, and that post-workout recovery, the heavy-duty resistance bands offer versatility and comfort to see big gains. Other types of bands include the tube resistance bands, which are a similar premise but with handles, and the light resistance bands, which are great for therapy (4,5).
How We Choose
When looking at the best resistance bands, we look at a few factors to bring you only best products around. We look at the reputation of the company and the brand because you deserve to have an honest and transparent company working on your behalf. The quality of the band and the material used will ensure durability and so you get only the best when it comes to your band and home workouts. We lastly look at price because workout equipment can be very expensive but it is possible to find great products at an affordable price.

FAQ Section
What are the best resistance bands?
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands. Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands offer next level resistance training to improve your overall strength and mobility goals. These bands range from 2 lbs. to 200 lbs. and are made from 15 layers of continuous latex.
What is the best way to use resistance bands?
When using resistance bands for bodybuilding and strength, there are many ways to use them. Bands can be great for warming up and recovery before and after your workout. For those who want to use them during the workout, resistance bands can also be great training aids to provide added resistance and a quality workout.
Does it matter if I’m a beginner or not?
There are resistance bands for people of all levels that can greatly benefit your home workouts. Whether you are a beginner or someone more experienced, the right bands exist so you can capitalize on all your goals with a great workout product.
Wrap Up
Resistance bands for bodybuilding are great tools to use for your at home workouts or on the go needs. This list is sure to offer some really nice options for you to see big gains and really develop definition. By working to build overall muscle as well as strength and size, resistance bands prioritize form and technique over sheer quantity and amount of weight. The real benefit to this is that you build mind-muscle connection, build toned definition, and feel a great workout and calorie burn without having to suffer at the gym. All can be done at the comfort of your own home. These resistances bands above are really nice options to either get you started if you are a beginner, take you to the next level if you are in the middle, or really elevate performance if your are more experienced. As great workout tools, resistance bands should never be an overlooked piece of equipment. Check out our list and see what resistance bands can do for you!
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

Dayne, Andrea; Nuzzo, James, L.; McBride, Jeffrey M.; Burr, Alan; Triplett, N. (2010). “Power Output In The Jump Squat In Adolescent Male Athletes”. (source)
McMahon, Gerard E.; Morse, Christopher I.; Burden, Adrian; Winwood, Keith; Onambele, Gladys L. (2014). “Impact of range of motion during ecologically valid resistance training protocols on muscle size, subcutaneous fat, and strength”. (source)
Calatayud, J.; Vinstrup, J.; Jakobsen, M.; Sundstrup, E. (2016). “Importance of mind-muscle connection during progressive resistance training”. (source)
Iversen, V. M.; Vasseljen, O.; Mork, P. J.; Gismervik, S.; et al. (2018). “Resistance band training or general exercise in multidisciplinary rehabilitation of low back pain? A randomized trial”. (source)
Lopes, J.; Machado, A.; Micheletti, J.; Almeida, A.; et al. (2019). “Effects of training with elastic resistance versus conventional resistance on muscular strength: A systematic review and meta-analysis”. (source)

Best Dumbbells For Home Training & Convenience 2021

Best Dumbbells For Home Training & Convenience 2021

These dumbbells are perfect for small spaces and adjustability to maximize your at-home training and performance goals.
When looking to beef up your home gym and find the right equipment for training and for small spaces, dumbbells are essential for maximizing all your training needs. Whether that be for isolation exercises or those compound exercises, dumbbells add a convenient way to pack on additional weight to said exercise and really give your muscles a good workout. Small and versatile pieces of workout equipment allow for a variety of exercises and can very easily take your home gym from zero to one hundred, and quickly.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Dumbbells for 2021 so you can maximize those at-home gains for all your training needs. A good dumbbell can take your workouts to new heights and allow for the best when it comes to strength, convenience, and of course, a physique others will envy.
Best Dumbbells For 2021

Best Overall
The best dumbbells overall will be of the highest quality to ensure durability while also being comfortable in size and grip. You want to make sure your dumbbells work for your gains and allow for only the best workouts possible.
papababe Dumbbells
papababe Dumbbells are great workout equipment for those looking to build strength, burn fat, and create a stellar physique that others will envy. Perfect for free weight training, these can be stored easily for optimal convenience. Made from solid cast iron, these ensure durability and longevity and the rubber coating helps prevent damage to floors and other equipment. With a hexagon-shaped head to prevent rolling, the grip is also secure to prevent slipping and injury.

papababe Dumbbells are perfect for free weight strength training. Made from solid cast iron with a rubber head, this ensures durability, longevity, and protection.

Pros

Great for exercise and seeing results for strength and fat loss
Easy storage for convenience
Solid cast iron and rubber coating ensure durability and protection

Cons

Can be an expensive option
May have a strong scent

Price: Range from $39.99-$329.99

Best Dumbbell Set
While having a pair of dumbbells is great, having a complete set is even better. Although this may be more expensive and take up more space, you will have more variety to your exercises and workouts overall.
papababe Dumbbell Set
papababe Dumbbell Set is the perfect set of dumbbells for comfort and use. The dumbbells themselves are high-quality made of cast iron with a rubber coating for protection. Although a set, it doesn’t take up too much space and is perfect for your home gym and at home training. The set includes an A-frame dumbbell rack with a pair of 5-pound, 10-pound, 15-pound, 20-pound, and 25-pound weights making this a great set to help you reach your goals.

papababe Dumbbell Set is a perfect set of dumbbells ranging from 5-25 lbs. High quality iron is matched by a rubber coating for protection great for all your lifting needs.

Pros

Great dumbbell set for building muscle and seeing results
Dumbbells are quality and durable material
Doesn’t take up too much space

Cons

A bit limited on weight with it only ranging from 5-25 pounds.

Price: $299.99

Best Adjustable Dumbbells
An adjustable dumbbell is exactly what you need to save space and money when it comes to a dumbbell. What these can do is allow for easy adjusting and basically take more than one dumbbell and condense it into one.
Topeakmart Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
Topeakmart Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set offers a great set of adjustable dumbbells that will save space and money when it comes to your dumbbell needs. Perfect for upper and lower body building exercises, the cement plates and iron bar allow for durability and the utmost quality. Anti-slip grips allow for comfort and safety and the ability to get the best workout possible. Included with this adjustable dumbbell set are four 4.4 lbs. plates, four 3.3 lbs. plates, four 2.8 lbs. plates, 2 bars with grips, and four spinlock collars.

Topeakmart Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set is perfect for saving space and time. A complete set of adjustable plates, bars, and spinlock collars, you limit your dumbbells to one while still offering a range of weight.

Pros

Adjusting makes this easy to workout
Can add and take off weight for your desired amount
Save money and time with one set of dumbbells

Cons

May be a hassle to have to adjust constantly
May not be enough weight for some

Price: $41.99
Check out our individual review for Topeakmart Adjustable Dumbbell here!

Best Block Dumbbells
Block dumbbells also allow for easy adjusting and can provide for fairly great grip as well. While these may not be what some are looking for, if you enjoy lifting with block dumbbells, then we have a great set for you.
POWERBLOCK Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell
POWERBLOCK Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell offers an adjustable range of 5-50 lbs. and replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells with just one. The auto-lock handle feature includes two chrome adder weights so you can even adjust your increments by 2.5 lbs. for just that much more weight. Perfect for saving time, money, and energy, these are a great set of block dumbbells.

POWERBLOCK Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell ranges from 5-50 lbs. for all your lifting needs. This replaces 16 dumbbells with just one to save space and time.

Pros

Adjustable from 5-50 lbs.
Replaces 16 pairs with just one dumbbell
Nice feature to add increments of 2.5 lbs. for a little more weight

Cons

Stability between the plates may not be the best
Bit expensive for the overall quality

Price: $321.15

Best Hex Dumbbells
A traditional dumbbell with a hex design is perfect for stopping it from rolling and causing damage to floors or other equipment. Typically with a rubber head, this ensures the utmost protection for all your surrounding items.
Sporzon! Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells
Sporzon! Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells are widely used in gyms and home gyms since they work for a variety of purposes. Able to work specific muscles or provide for a full body workout, these are great dumbbells. Made from high-quality solid cast iron and encased in rubber, these dumbbells are durable along with a solid metal chrome finish textured handles for the best grip possible. The hexagon-shape rubber encased head offers protection and limits rolling around.

Sporzon! Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells are great to use for a variety of exercises. Solid cast iron encased in rubber ensures quality, durability, and protection while giving a great grip.

Pros

High-quality material and rubber coating ensure durability and protection
Good feel and texture for workouts

Cons

Grip may be too thick for some

Price: Ranges from $39.54 to $92.00

Best Dumbbell Set For Home Gyms
For those looking to seriously beef up their home gym, a complete set of high quality dumbbells will give you a professional look and feel from the comfort of your own home. While this may be an expensive option, if you can make it happen, it is totally worth it.
American Barbell Series IV Urethane Dumbbells
American Barbell Series IV Urethane Dumbbells are commercial grade and high quality construction at an affordable price. The dumbbell features a solid steel core, a hard chrome plated handle, and top tier urethane head to handle any abuse the weight may endure. Designed for comfort, the larger radius outside and inside edges make this conducive to all exercises. With a complete set of 5-50 lbs., all those home gym needs are right around the corner and absolutely within reach.

American Barbell Series IV Urethane Dumbbells are commercial grade and high-quality at an affordable price. Designed for comfort, this complete set is perfect for rounding out your home gym.

Pros

Complete set of dumbbells ranging from 5-50 lbs.
High quality construction and top tier urethane finish for protection
Comfortable and easy to use grip

Cons

Premium priced option
Will take up a lot of space as it is a complete set

Price: $2,100.00

Best Dumbbell Rack
Of course, with all these dumbbells, you need a place to store them. Having a sturdy and stable rack will give you the best chance at storing these weights in a great place to take up minimal space.
Marcy 3-Tier Dumbbell Rack
Marcy 3-Tier Dumbbell Rack is exactly what you need to store all of those dumbbells when your not using them for your workout. Made of steel, this heavy duty rack can withstand damage and intensive use over time and a durable powder coat finish offers reinforcement and a great quality coat on top. Compact and great for saving space, this multi-level storage rack is exactly what you need to make that home gym feel a little more complete and organized.

Marcy 3-Tier Dumbbell Rack is a heavy-duty rack designed to hold weights and withstand damage. A multi-level rack, this is great for storage and staying organized.

Pros

Heavy duty steel and quality construction
Great for saving space with a compact design
Powder coat finish ensures durability and longevity

Cons

May not hold as many weights as you have or would like it to

Price: $116.72

Benefits Of Dumbbells
While we all know how helpful dumbbells can be, the benefits of using them are too hard to ignore. Great for training and for small spaces, dumbbells can be a game changer when it comes to taking your workouts to new heights. Benefits of dumbbells include:

Safe and effective exercise: Using dumbbells ensure a safe and effective exercise by allowing you to maintain proper form without too much weight and if the weight does get too much, you can ditch it safely without putting yourself at risk of injury (1).
Perfect for muscle growth: Great fitness tools, dumbbells are perfect for increasing muscle growth by creating time under tension and adding nice resistance to your workouts (2).
Adjust for strength and symmetry: You can work one arm or one leg at a time with dumbbells and this will be perfect when it comes to strength and symmetry for the ideal physique (3).
Add variety and versatility to workouts: With dumbbells, you get the best of all worlds as they can be used for a variety of workouts and different exercises to challenge you.
Convenient pieces of workout equipment: Easy to use and easy to store, dumbbells are incredibly convenient pieces of workout equipment.

What To Look For In A Dumbbell
Aside from price, you want to make sure your dumbbell has some features to offer the best workout experience possible.

Grip/Knurling

You want to look for the type of grip because grip and grip strength matter. Having a safe and effective grip can work wonders for all your fitness needs. Especially as you get to heavier dumbbells, the grip you have can help you feel secure and less vulnerable for all your needs (4).

Handle Size

You want to look for the size of the handle being its diameter. A fatter handle will require different muscles to grip and different muscles worked and you may not fully want that. Just be mindful of how big you want the handle to be.

Adjustable/Fixed

This is important because this plays into price. If you wanted dumbbells with fixed weight, you are going to need more space, more weights, and more money. Adjustable dumbbells are great for saving space and money and offer an adjustable option to cycle through weights.

Dumbbells Vs. Kettlebells Vs. Barbells
While all of these are great for working out with, each offers a bit of a unique take on an exercise that can benefit you in different ways. For those interested in more conditioning and endurance based workouts, kettlebells are perfect for that (5). The handle and overall feel allows for better movements when it comes to higher intensity work. Barbells will be helpful for those looking to lift heavier weight for you can pack on the pounds and allow your whole body to work from just one piece of equipment. Dumbbells fit nicely right in the middle. For those wanting to work on isolation exercises or compound movements, dumbbells are great, easy to grip, and can provide for an amazing workout and serious gains.
How We Choose
When it comes to choosing the best dumbbells, we look at a number of factors because you deserve to have only the best on the list to choose from. We look at the company and the brand representing the product. It is important that a company works for you and all your intended goals and is reputable in their mission to produce only the best workout equipment around. We then look at the quality and other attributes of a good dumbbell including material, durability, grip, and overall feel. This will ensure quality workouts and optimal effectiveness of the product. Lastly, we look at price because we know these products can get expensive. It is possible to find a great dumbbell while still being at an affordable price.

FAQ Section
What is the best dumbbell?
papababe Dumbells. These dumbbells are perfect for those looking for great workout equipment to build strength, burn fat, and create a winning physique. Made from solid cast iron, these offer great strength and total durability.
How much weight should I look to get out of my dumbbells?
This all depends on how much you lift. For most exercises, it is safe to say that around 50-60 lbs. is a good cut off point. While you may need heavier weight on certain exercises, the solution would be to toss on more reps to still see great gains.
Can I get a good workout with just dumbbells?
Absolutely. Having a well-rounded workout is obviously the goal, but with dumbbells, you can work isolation exercises and compound exercises to really give yourself the best chance at the growth you want most.
Wrap Up
Dumbbells are the perfect workout tool for those at-home training needs. Able to save space, provide for great workouts, and really give you the gains you want most, dumbbells can really give you everything you want and more to give you the best growth possible. Finding the right set of dumbbells may seem daunting, especially with a market so saturated in fitness equipment, but it is possible. Check out our list above of the best dumbbells and find the right pair for you today.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

Shaw, I.; Shaw, B.; Shariat, A.; Brown, G. (2016). “Review of the Role of Resistance Training and Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation”. (source)
Saeterbakken, A.; Tillaar, R.; Fimland, M. (2011). “A comparison of muscle activity and 1-RM strength of three chest-press exercises with different stability requirements”. (source)
Franettovich, M.; Hides, J.; Mendis, M.; Littleworth, H. (2011). “Muscle imbalance among elite athletes”. (source)
Lee, J. A.; Sechachalam, S. (2016). “The Effect of Wrist Position on Grip Endurance and Grip Strength”. (source)
Manocchia, P.; Spierer, D.; Lufkin, A.; Minichiello, J.; et al. (2013). “Transference of Kettlebell Training to Strength, Power, and Endurance”. (source)

Best Wrist Wraps For Lift Support & Optimal Performance (Updated 2021)

Best Wrist Wraps For Lift Support & Optimal Performance (Updated 2021)

Elevate your bodybuilding and powerlifting training and competition with great wrist wraps for the best lift support.
You may see people in the gym all the time wearing wrist wraps. You definitely see powerlifters and strongmen wearing them for lift support. But you may be wondering why. Like a pair of deadlift socks or knee sleeves, wrist wraps are just one of those fitness aids that can really work for your overall benefit when it comes to lifting big and seeing huge gains. Looking into a proper pair for your bodybuilding strength and fitness goals should be at the top of your priority list especially entering this holiday season.
As we push ourselves to the max and really do our best to boost all aspects of athletic performance, it is important for us to have proper protection in order to keep ourselves injury free and working hard every single day. A pair of wrist wraps can do just that as we seek nothing but the best for ourselves, our form, and overall physical and mental health as we take our training as high as it can go with these power grips.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Wrist Wraps for 2021 to give you the best chance at lifting big while also staying safe. With the right protection, you won’t sacrifice your bodybuilding gains or valuable time in the gym.
Best Wrist Wraps For 2021

Best Wrist Wraps Overall
A great pair of wrist wraps overall will work to give you the best in terms of support and durability. With great material and a design tested for those big lifts, all your gains can happen in a safe and effective way with these bodybuilding power grips.
SBD Wrist Wraps
SBD brings these great wrist wraps to consumers that are perfect for training, repetitions, and competition use for bodybuilding, powerlifting, and weightlifting. The flexible wrist wraps are designed for easy self wrapping and the stiff wrist wraps are designed for optimal support to maximize work effort. With two options to choose from, SBD covers all of your wrist wrap needs for your desired goals. With a heavy-duty thumb loop and manufactured alongside a main wide elastic, these are designed for powerlifters and strongmen and an industrial fastener ensures longevity and security. Approved for USAPL, IPF, and USPA, these wrist wraps are great for all of your needs.
These wrist wraps by SBD were seen at the World’s Strongest Man 2020 competition worn by the winner Oleskii Novikov. Able to support the most elite athletes in the sport, these wrist wraps are specially designed for powerlifters and strongmen to enhance all aspects of their training and competition goals.

SBD Wrist Wraps are specifically designed for wrist support and pressing movements. The heavy duty thumb loop and industrial fastening ensure longevity and a good fit.

Pros

Two options allow for a flexible or a more stiff wrist wrap
Durable and designed for powerlifters while also being competition approved

Cons

Premium option with price
Only available directly from their website.

Price: $42.50
Check out our individual review for SBD Wrist Wraps here!

Best For Powerlifting
For those powerlifters who need to focus on only increasing weight, a pair of wrist wraps can greatly benefit you in a number of ways. When it comes to lifting big with those big three powerlifts, having the best support will eliminate vulnerability and allow you to thrive when it comes to those gains and results.
SBD Wrist Wraps
SBD brings these great wrist wraps to consumers that are perfect for training, repetitions, and competition use for bodybuilding, powerlifting, and weightlifting. The flexible wrist wraps are designed for easy self wrapping and the stiff wrist wraps are designed for optimal support to maximize work effort. With two options to choose from, SBD covers all of your wrist wrap needs for your desired goals. With a heavy-duty thumb loop and manufactured alongside a main wide elastic, these are designed for powerlifters and strongmen and an industrial fastener ensures longevity and security. Approved for USAPL, IPF, and USPA, these wrist wraps are great for all of your needs.
These wrist wraps by SBD were seen at the World’s Strongest Man 2020 competition worn by the winner Oleskii Novikov. Able to support the most elite athletes in the sport, these wrist wraps are specially designed for powerlifters and strongmen to enhance all aspects of their training and competition goals.

SBD Wrist Wraps are specifically designed for wrist support and pressing movements. The heavy duty thumb loop and industrial fastening ensure longevity and a good fit.

Pros

Two options allow for a flexible or a more stiff wrist wrap
Durable and designed for powerlifters while also being competition approved

Cons

Premium option with price
Only available directly from their website.

Price: $42.50
Check out our individual review for SBD Wrist Wraps here!

Best For Weightlifting
For those involved in weightlifting, a quality pair of wrist wraps will greatly affect how you perform each exercise with these power grips. With so many exercises and each having their own unique challenge, your weightlifting needs can be covered with a great pair of wrist wraps.
Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
Gymreapers Wrist Wraps offer great support for any lifts, especially those Olympic lifts. Made from high-grade nylon, these wraps are tested to perform under the toughest conditions and are guaranteed to be durable to continued longevity. With enhanced stitching, you’ll never worry about durability issues and the heavy duty thumb loop ensures a secure fit and quick removal. Being USPA approved is a huge plus for all your training and competition needs.

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps offer incredible support for all your big lifts. The heavy-duty thumb loop allows for a secure fit and easy adjusting for all your needs.

Pros

High-grade nylon material ensures durability for weightlifting
Enhanced stitching promotes better longevity
USPA approved is great for training and competition

Cons

Fit may not be great for some as the material is quite sturdy

Price: $19.99

Best For Beginners
Beginners may be wondering which pair of wrist wraps to buy and with so many on the market, it can be tough to decide. You want a pair that will work for you and be comfortable enough for free movement, yet sturdy enough to protect against injury whether for bodybuilding, powerlifting, or weightlifting.
Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
Gymreapers Wrist Wraps offer great support for any lifts, especially those Olympic lifts. Made from high-grade nylon, these wraps are tested to perform under the toughest conditions and guaranteed to be durable to continued longevity. With enhanced stitching, you’ll never worry about durability issues and the heavy duty thumb loop ensures a secure fit and quick removal. Being USPA approved is a huge plus for all your training and competition needs.

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps offer incredible support for all your big lifts. The heavy-duty thumb loop allows for a secure fit and easy adjusting for all your needs.

Pros

High-grade nylon material ensures durability out of these power grips
Enhanced stitching promotes better longevity
USPA approved is great for training and competition

Cons

Fit may not be great for some as the material is quite sturdy

Price: $19.99

Best For Durability
You want your wrist wraps to be durable and that comes down to quality power grips. A poorly made pair will fall apart and cost you time and money that you just don’t need so look into the best material and those reputable brands for the most durable products.
SBD Wrist Wraps
SBD brings these great wrist wraps to consumers that are perfect for training, repetitions, and competition use for bodybuilding, powerlifting, and weightlifting. The flexible wrist wraps are designed for easy self wrapping and the stiff wrist wraps are designed for optimal support to maximize work effort. With two options to choose from, SBD covers all of your wrist wrap needs for your desired goals. With a heavy-duty thumb loop and manufactured alongside a main wide elastic, these are designed for powerlifters and strongmen and an industrial fastener ensures longevity and security. Approved for USAPL, IPF, and USPA, these wrist wraps are great for all of your needs.
These wrist wraps by SBD were seen at the World’s Strongest Man 2020 competition worn by the winner Oleskii Novikov. Able to support the most elite athletes in the sport, these wrist wraps are specially designed for powerlifters and strongmen to enhance all aspects of their training and competition goals.

SBD Wrist Wraps are specifically designed for wrist support and pressing movements. The heavy duty thumb loop and industrial fastening ensure longevity and a good fit.

Pros

Two options allow for a flexible or a more stiff wrist wrap
Durable and designed for powerlifters while also being competition approved

Cons

Premium option with price
Only available directly from their website.

Price: $42.50
Check out our individual review for SBD Wrist Wraps here!

Best For Versatility
A versatile pair of wrist wraps will help with all those needs when it comes to a variety of exercises. You want to have many options when using wrist wraps and those that offer versatility will only enhance your gains by not restricting you during those bodybuilding or powerlifting workouts.
Bear Grips Wrist Wrap Set
These wrist wraps from Bear Grips offer protection for working out and strength training by allowing you to lift more to keep you at an optimal lifting angle. Triple stitched and a premium thumb loop provide for strong closure and dual elastic protectors to enhance versatility. Great for functional use, they won’t restrict total movement and are great for replacing bulky braces. They not only support big lifts but also provide therapeutic relief making these very versatile wrist wraps.

Bear Grips Wrist Wraps Set is a great pair of wrist wraps to prevent wrist pain while also boosting strength and mobility. The adjustable strap allows for a perfect fit for even the toughest workouts.

Pros

Offer support and provide for comfort
Stable and versatile product
At a great price, they are useful for many type of workout

Cons

The thumb loop tends to cause some pain depending on the tightness
Not as stable as others for big lifts

Price: $14.99

Benefits Of Them
The benefits of wrist wraps may be enough to convince you to buy a pair, or at least give them a try. While our bodies are amazing specimens, it doesn’t hurt to give them an extra boost in our quest for big bodybuilding or powerlifting gains.

Stabilize the wrists: For heavy lifts, stabilizing your wrists is key in helping to prevent hyperextending while promoting solid form and grip on the bar. By doing this, you only add to your foundational strength to properly execute any big lift (1).
Support high volume and intensity: Relieve pain in your wrists so you don’t have to worry about injury while also promoting the longevity of your workout.
Enhance grip: Provide for a better grip to be more comfortable while lifting more weights to enhance overall growth (2).
Promote healthy recovery: After an injury, wrist wraps can offer that extra level of support to take away any injury or swelling and relieve any pressure to allow you to lift while still giving your wrists time to strengthen and heal.

Pros & Cons Of Wrist Wraps
The pros of wearing wrist wraps is that you better support your wrists, especially if you are prone to wrist pain during big lifts. Feeling stable and supported, while also using proper form, can greatly benefit you as you look to lift massive weight and see huge gains (3,4). By offering proper wrist alignment, those days of you feeling unwanted wrist pain are a thing of the past.
However, it is possible to abuse wrist wraps by becoming too dependent on them. As you lift weight, your wrists and other muscles alongside it will start to strengthen. But with wrist wraps, you take that out of the equation and as those larger muscles get stronger, those smaller ones don’t need to since wrist wraps help do that for them. By not strengthening these muscles you start to hurt yourself in the long run once those wrist wraps come off.
How We Choose
When it comes to choosing the best wrist wraps, we look at the brands because you deserve only the best to be representing you. The reputation and quality of their products gives us insight into how great their wrist wraps will be. We then look at the quality of the product and the level of comfort while lifting because your wrist wraps should be comfortable and not totally restrict you. Finally, we look at price because we know that fitness equipment can get expensive but it is possible to find great products while still being at an affordable price.

FAQ Section
What are the best wrist wraps?
SBD Wrist Wraps. SBD brings these great wrist wraps to consumers that are perfect for training, repetitions, and competition use. The flexible wrist wraps are designed for easy self wrapping and the stiff wrist wraps are designed for optimal support to maximize work effort. With two options to choose from, SBD covers all of your wrist wrap needs for your desired goals.
Do I really need them?
Using wrist wraps is all about personal preference so no, you don’t need to use them. But for those looking to lift big and see gains, wrist wraps can ensure protection and offer stability as you seek to lift that big weight.
What should I look for in a pair of wrist wraps?
You should look for quality material as this will ensure durability and longevity. Also, look into the level of comfort for this will affect how you lift. You want a versatile pair to work for you, not against you.
Wrap Up
Wrist wraps are great aids to use for any workout, but in particular those big lifts. Able to support and stabilize your wrists, these workout aids are perfect for those looking to enhance their overall growth and performance while staying safe doing so. Worn by professionals and elite athletes, these can be game changers for whatever your workout may be. Check out a good pair of wrist wraps and see what they can do for you when it comes to elevating your overall performance.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

Weiss, A. K.; Tsai, H. H.; Puffer J. C. (2002). “Bilateral Wrist Pain-Weightlifter”. (source)
Lee, Julia-Ann; Sechachalam, Sreedharan (2016). “The Effect of Wrist Position on Grip Endurance and Grip Strength”. (source)
Lee, Ju-Hyun; Kim, Tae-Ho; Lim, Kyu-Bong (2018). “Effects of eccentric control exercise for wrist extensor and shoulder stabilization exercise on the pain and functions of tennis elbow”. (source)
Judge, W. L.; Burke, M. J.; Patrick, J. T.; Guidry, D. T.; et al. (2017). “Effects of wrist wraps on throwing distance in highly skilled shot put athletes”. (source)

Best Kettlebells For Durability & Versatility (Updated 2021)

Best Kettlebells For Durability & Versatility (Updated 2021)

These best kettlebells for bodybuilding are perfect for kettlebell training to promote durability and versatility.
Kettlebells are great training tools to enhance durability and versatility and these best kettlebells for bodybuilding are exactly what you need. Whether it be for your home gym or to use in the gym, these are simple and convenient tools perfect for enhancing gains. These best kettlebells for home workouts can greatly improve not only strength and size but also power and endurance, leaving you with a complete set of performance tools. With an increased focus on kettlebell training, those performance goals are right around the corner.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Kettlebells For 2021 to give you great options to boost your kettlebell training and at-home workouts. The right equipment can give you the best when it comes to results and these kettlebells can do just that.
Best Kettlebells For 2021

Best Kettlebell Overall
Finding the right kettlebell to tackle all of your needs may seem challenging but it is absolutely possible. With the right material and a quality process backing it, a durable kettlebell with a great grip can really boost all your strength and endurance gains.
Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells
These kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are amazing for promoting better grip for safer and more effective workouts, overall protection of the iron for durability and longevity, and a promise from an amazing company in Kettlebell Kings. Each kettlebell is made from a single piece of cast iron so the handle remains intact and each is color-coded so you know exactly what amount you’re using. The powder coat ensures a solid grip for no slippage or poor form. The structural integrity of these kettlebells will ensure the integrity of your lifts and lifestyle.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells are made from a single piece of cast iron with a well welded handle. Powder coating allows for a great gripping surface for whatever your workout may be.

Pros

The powder finish is the right amount of smooth and rough for enhanced grip
Different weights add nice versatility to each workout
Consistent and durable products from a company who cares about their equipment and consumers

Cons

Premium priced item
Some of the higher weights may have pitting issues.

Price: Ranges from $69.99 to $424.99
Check out our individual review for Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells here!

Best Kettlebell For Your Home Or Gym
A kettlebell should be versatile and whether you are using it at home or in the gym, should reflect all your goals. Structural integrity is key and this kettlebell from Kettlebell Kings holds up to that and is perfect for either at home or in the gym. The best kettlebells for home workouts can greatly enhance your workouts from home so you see gains in a comfortable environment.
Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebell
These kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are amazing for promoting better grip for safer and more effective workouts, overall protection of the iron for durability and longevity, and a promise from an amazing company in Kettlebell Kings. Each kettlebell is made from a single piece of cast iron so the handle remains intact and each is color-coded so you know exactly what amount you’re using. The powder coat ensures a solid grip for no slippage or poor form. The structural integrity of these kettlebells will ensure the integrity of your lifts and lifestyle.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells are made from a single piece of cast iron with a well welded handle. Powder coating allows for a great gripping surface for whatever your workout may be.

Pros

The powder finish is the right amount of smooth and rough for enhanced grip
Different weights add nice versatility to each workout
Consistent and durable products from a company who cares about their equipment and consumers

Cons

Premium priced item
Some of the higher weights may have pitting issues.

Price: Ranges from $69.99 to $424.99
Check out our individual review for Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells here!

Best Kettlebell For The Money
Kettlebells, and all fitness equipment for that matter, can be expensive and we know that. Finding the right kettlebell that is still high-quality but also affordable is a challenge but one worth undertaking and Eleiko has you covered with their top tier kettlebells.
Eleiko Training Kettlebell
These well-constructed kettlebells from Eleiko are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.

Eleiko Training Kettlebells are well-constructed tools for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Durable and well-balanced high-grade cast iron allows for the utmost durability for this kettlebell.

Pros

Durability and consistency are a plus
Great weight options for variety and versatility
Perfect for strength work and hard training
Great grips on both for stability and added strength

Cons

Premium priced option

Price: Ranges from $25.00 to $163.00
Check out our individual review for Eleiko Kettlebells here!

Best Kettlebell For Lifters
Those of us who lift big may wonder how kettlebells can actually help us see growth. With a premium kettlebell designed for lifters, you won’t suffer from a poor workout and each exercise will see the gains you want most for all your lifting needs. The best kettlebells for weightlifting can target those same lifting wants for similar or better results.
American Barbell Classic Kettlebell
American Barbell Classic Kettlebell is a premium kettlebell made from the highest quality standards. A textured finish offers a solid grip and chip-resistant surface while a large flat base offers the best in terms of stability. Made from single cast iron, this offers superior ergonomics and durability so you never have to worry about a poor workout or poor product. The clean and smooth finish gives a great look and a secure grip eliminates the need for chalk.

American Barbell Classic Kettlebell is a premium kettlebell made from high-quality material. Clean with a smooth finish, the handle also provides a secure grip for whatever workout comes your way.

Pros

Solid cast iron and textured finish
Secured grip means no chalk
Superior ergonomics and durability

Cons

Finish may not be as smooth as advertised which may affect grip

Price: Ranges from $27.00 to $168.00

Best Kettlebell For Cardio
While kettlebells can work well for lifters and their strength goals, they are also great for increasing cardio. Those exercises used to get your heart rate going can greatly affect your endurance gains and the best kettlebells for cardio will only help.
Gymreapers Kettlebell
Gymreapers Kettlebells are made from durable and long-lasting cast iron with a well-designed flat and wobble free base. Built for a variety of exercises, these kettlebells are great for building strength and endurance while also promoting a better weight training regimen. The molding process for these kettlebells ensures each kettlebell is well made and of the highest quality to not only prevent wobbling but also offer a smooth finish with smooth handles. This ensures a great grip for whatever workout comes your way.

Gymreapers Kettlebells are durable and long-lasting made of quality cast iron. These are great for building strength and endurance for whatever your training regimen requires.

Pros

Durable cast iron for longevity
Great for strength building and endurance
Smooth handles and a top tier molding process

Cons

Slightly more expensive than others on this list

Price: Ranges from $29.99 to $189.99

Best Kettlebell For Beginners
For those just starting out, kettlebells are a worthwhile tool to know about. The right kettlebell to start out with can give you everything you want and then some to set you up for great lifting success.
Eleiko Training Kettlebell
These well-constructed kettlebells from Eleiko are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.

Eleiko Training Kettlebells are well-constructed tools for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Durable and well-balanced high-grade cast iron allows for the utmost durability for this kettlebell.

Pros

Durability and consistency are a huge plus
Great weight options for variety and versatility
Perfect for strength work and hard training
Great grips on both for stability and added strength

Cons

Premium priced

Price: Ranges from $25.00 to $163.00
Check out our individual review for Eleiko Kettlebells here!

Benefits Of Kettlebells
Kettlebells provide many benefits for growth in a multitude of areas for a variety of exercises. With an increased effort to make kettlebells a staple in all routines, these exercise tools are a main focus for many athletes and the best kettlebells for competition can greatly influence training and performance for all those results you seek most.

Full body workout: Targets many muscle groups and increases strength, endurance, and flexibility (1).
Promote strength & power: Improved power output at an intense pace for increased lean muscle mass (2).
Improved balance, stability, & coordination: Enhance mind-muscle connection and work to improve technique and form.
Simple & convenient tools: No changing weights and easy to learn for great workouts and added versatility.

Best Kettlebell Exercises
When it comes to building strength and size with kettlebells, it’s important to know which exercises can help get you to where you want to be. The right exercises with a well-rounded training program can greatly influence and affect all your gains (3,4). By focusing on upper and lower body parts, you can build that muscle you want most while seeing a physique others will envy.
Best Upper Body Kettlebell Exercises

Kettlebell Push-Ups
Kettlebell Row
Kettlebell Bench Press
Kettlebell Skullcrushers
Kettlebell Upright Rows

Best Lower Body Kettlebell Exercises

Kettlebell Goblet Squat
Kettlebell Lunge
Kettlebell Bulgarian Split Squat
Kettlebell Lateral Lunge

Best Kettlebell Core Exercises

One-Arm Kettlebell Swings
Kettlebell Turkish Get-Ups
Front-Racked Kettlebell Lunges
Unilateral Kettlebell Overhead Carry

How To Grip & Hold A Kettlebell
The number one thing when performing kettlebell training is to not over grip the handle. You want a relaxed grip for optimal versatility and movement. With kettlebells, you can hold them by the handle, or by the base of it to offer an easier grip. It is all preference as to what you want out of your training. If you are holding by the base you can cup it to fit your hands around it and if you are holding by the handle, go more towards the side instead of directly in the center.
Kettlebells Vs. Dumbbells
When it comes to using kettlebells versus dumbbells, it should be said that both can greatly affect your gains for the better. But what you’ll find with kettlebells is more versatility and the ability to promote strength and power in a bit more of a convenient way. The grip of the kettlebell over the dumbbell is more conducive to powering you through workouts and getting the most effective lift and kettlebells take up less space as is. Kettlebells do tend to work smaller muscles more effectively than dumbbells as well so while you of course work those larger muscles, those stabilizers also get good work done too to improve weightlifting, powerlifting, and bodybuilding performance.

How We Choose
When looking at the best kettlebells, we first look at the company and what product they are putting out there. Your kettlebell should be high quality and durable to both save you time and money. The material and overall durability of the product is important to us as well because you deserve to have the best product in your hands for whatever type of training you choose. We lastly look at price because we know how expensive this equipment can get. It is possible to have great quality equipment without totally breaking the bank.
FAQ Section
What is the best kettlebell?
Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells. These kettlebells promote a better and safer grip to protect you during any workout. Great quality and durability ensures longevity and maximum gains.
Can I actually get a good workout with a kettlebell?
Kettlebells can greatly affect your workouts and you can absolutely get a good workout with them. With the versatility to tackle any exercise, you can get a full body workout, or simply an isolated upper or lower body workout depending on your goals.
How do I know which kettlebell to buy?
The reputation of the brand is important because you want a quality and durable kettlebell. Also look at the grip and read customer reviews to see if others found it helpful or not. Knowing what weight to buy can be challenging so if this is for your home gym, maybe go to a gym and try those out for size so you know exactly what size kettlebell to buy.
Wrap Up
Kettlebells are great exercise tools to enhance all of your gains and are simple and effective pieces of equipment to use. These five kettlebells will work to seriously give you great benefits for overall training and performance. The benefits of these tools will really get you to consider adding them to your workout routine so when performance time comes, you are more than ready. Check out these best kettlebells for bodybuilding and all your weightlifting needs today and see what they can do for you.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

Kravitz, Len. “Kettlebell Research Update”. (source)
Beardsley, Chris; Contreras, Bret (2014). “The Role of Kettlebells in Strength and Conditioning: A Review of the Literature”. (source)
Jay, Kenneth; Frisch, Dennis; Hansen, Klaus; Zebis, Mette K.; et al. (2011). “Kettlebell training for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health: a randomized controlled trial”. (source)
Meier, Joseph; Quednow, Jeffrey; Sedlak, Timothy. “The Effects of High Intensity Interval-Based Kettlebells and Battle Rope Training on Grip Strength and Body Composition in College-Aged Adults”. (source)
Manocchia, Pasquale; Spierer, David K.; Lufkin, Adrienne K. S.; Minichiello, Jacqueline; Castro, Jessica (2013). “Transference of Kettlebell Training to Strength, Power, and Endurance”. (source)

Best Weightlifting Belts For Gains & Back Support (Updated 2021)

Best Weightlifting Belts For Gains & Back Support (Updated 2021)

Stabilize your lower back and support those monster lifts with these weightlifting belts to see big gains.
While some certainly take the more “natural” approach when it comes to their big lifts and decide to not where one, weightlifting belts can be incredibly useful tools to keep you both safe and efficient in your workouts, especially when it comes to huge lifts for stability and added core support. Many people dawn these leather or nylon belts in the gym in efforts to assist lifts like the squat or the deadlift. Aside from keeping people safe by allowing for solid form, those powerlifters and bodybuilders who rock these belts love them because they can lift more weight.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Weightlifting Belts for 2021 to help you progress in your weightlifting journey. From leather to nylon, each is unique in its approach for functionality, durability, flexibility, and support, but can really work to elevate your big lifts.
Best Weightlifting Belts For 2021

Best Overall
Your lifting belt should be a great all-around aid to you in the gym, especially for those of you powerlifters and bodybuilders. A quality belt will provide core support, back support and stability, and the utmost protection as you lift massive weight. But it should also be comfortable and versatile to not interfere with your gains. SBD has created an awesome weightlifting belt that hits all the marks of a great lifting aid.
SBD 13MM Lever Belt
SBD 13mm Lever Belt is an awesome lifting belt designed for powerlifters and strongmen to really enhance overall support and strength. The English hide is prepared over five months in order to ensure strength and longevity so this belt is more comfortable with time and will last you well into your training years. A black oiled finish and red suede interior keeps you looking and feeling great while wearing it. The buckle is easily adjustable with a gliding lever action and prong belt for easy access and with 13mm of thickness, this belt is lightweight and flexible without sacrificing any gains to those powerlifters and bodybuilders.

SBD 13MM Lever Belt is a quality belt with 13mm thickness and 10cm width. Black oiled leather finish with red suede interior offers a sleek look on this belt that is USAPL and IPF approved.

Pros

Built to last, this is a quality and comfortable belt for stability and core support
It is easy to adjust and the many sizes offered ensures a snug fit
Looks and feels great in efforts to provide you with great support
Competition approved is a huge plus

Cons

A premium priced option only available through their website
Only 13mm thickness is available
The red suede tends to bleed when wet, so wearing a darker t-shirt the first few uses will prevent any unwanted staining

Price: $227.50
Check out our individual review for SBD 13MM Lever Belt here!

Best Lifting Belt For Deadlifts
The deadlift is one of those exercises powerlifters and bodybuilders just love to put on serious weight and get that off the ground. As a massive lift by nature, your belt should reflect the goals you seek most when it comes to driving that bar up. Gymreapers has this belt to offer the best support and protection for your back while still allowing for functional movements, especially with deadlifts.
Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt
Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt offers superior back support and protection for all those big lifts. A premium lifting belt, this is a durable option made from real reinforced leather with double stitching around the edges. While this is a sturdy belt, it won’t impede on your lifts and a lightweight metal buckle doesn’t get in the way. Lightweight and form fitting, this belt will give you great support while offering a snug fit and still allowing for optimal versatility. Great for deadlifts and those other leg and back workouts, this belt can allow you to generate strength and power effectively, especially with deadlifts.

Gymreapers 7MM Leather Weightlifting Belt provides great support for your back and legs. Durable and form fitting, this is perfect for those heavy lifts.

Pros

Great for deadlifts, as well as other legs and back workouts
Superior back support and protection with added core support
Lightweight and form fitting while still being versatile and offering stability

Cons

Some complaints around comfort but it is sturdy

Price: $89.99

Best Lever Lifting Belt
Belts that have a lever fastening system are incredibly convenient and simple to use so you don’t waste time in the gym and can get down to doing what you love. Pronged belts tend to be a hassle and take too long in between lifts to adjust. Gymreapers designed a great lever belt that is comfortable, simple to use, and seriously effective in seeing gains for those of you powerlifters and bodybuilders.
Gymreapers 10MM Lever Belt
Gymreapers 10MM Lever Belt is designed for athletes through rigorous testing to find the best quality and durability to aid in any and all of your lifts. Great form, fit, and function are matched by a clean design and easy-to-use lever for optimal adjustments and less hassle. High quality leather is coupled with smooth edges and reinforced stitching perfect for overall quality and longevity. Being USPA approved allows you to use this for competition so you can train and compete with a belt you can trust.

Gymreapers 10MM Lever Belt is examined and improved for quality and durability. A clean and easy design is matched by an easy-to-use lever function and quality leather.

Pros

Great form, fit, and functionality out of the belt with core support and stability
The lever function is a clean design and easy to use
Well-tested and researched for optimal effectiveness
USPA approved is awesome

Cons

Material on the buckle could be a bit better

Price: $110.00

Best Lifting Belt For Beginners
Those just starting out as powerlifters and bodybuilders may be unfamiliar with weightlifting belts and what to use them for. To start, an entry level belt should be comfortable and offer support but be very simple to use and here is where a Velcro strap comes into play. Harbinger has created a flexible, yet durable nylon belt with a Velcro strap so beginners can lift big in a simple way.
Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt
Harbinger offers a great nylon lifting belt made from thick, flexible, heavy duty nylon which works to provide maximum comfort and durability while maintaining muscle warmth. Since the stitching runs in parallel lines across the entire belt, it allows for uniform support and better stabilization. The 4-inch belt with an extra wide 3-inch strap offers the proper lower back and abdominal support for those heavy lifts and big gains. The steel buckle makes tensioning more than easy for convenience and overall, this belt is great for both flexibility, stability, and core support.

Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt is a great belt for supporting your lower back during those heavier lifts. Thick and flexible nylon is matched by quality and durability for ensured longevity.

Pros

The thick Velcro offers for great durability and support
Comfortable fit and aids in muscle warmth
The steel buckle makes for easy and simple adjusting

Cons

Not as rigid as other belts, so there may be others with more support
With Velcro straps, you always run the risk of durability issues

Price: $15.75/large belt (prices may vary slightly for other sizes)
Check out our individual review for Harbinger 4’’ Nylon Weightlifting Belt here!

Best Lifting Belt For Squats
Another big lift, squatting requires serious attention to form, especially as you stack more and more weight on. What you want out of a great squatting belt is something to offer core support and to keep your back neutral while offering balance and stability with some free movement. Pioneer creates amazing lifting belts that are durable and versatile to keep you safe during squats and seeing huge gains as powerlifters and bodybuilders.
Pioneer Leather Deadlift Belt
Pioneer Leather Deadlifting Belts are made from full grain sole leather to allow for repeated abuse and the prevention of wear and tear over time and are 6.5mm thick. The nickel-plated rivets and buckles hold this belt together and show true craftsmanship both in terms of look and quality. The beveled edges are put in place for added comfort, giving customers a sense of ease that Pioneer cares about the smaller details as well in their quest to make a great belt. Strong enough to be durable and last a long time while also allowing for comfort and versatility, you will feel great about any workout that comes your way. Made right here in the United States, this belt is an all around great addition to your gym bag and workout routine.

Pioneer Weightlifting Belts are great for heavy lifts and provide 6.5mm thickness for quality and durability. The tapered tongue and single prong buckle are perfect for a snug fit.

Pros

Three great size options with all being 6.5 mm thick
Nickel plated rivets and buckle are durable look great
Full grain sole leather allows for great strength and pliability
From a reputable and honest company in Pioneer

Cons

Unknown if belts are approved for competition or not

Price: Prices range from $51.95-$72.95
Check out our individual review for Pioneer Leather Deadlift Belts here!

Best Leather Lifting Belt For Weightlifting
Using a belt during weightlifting can be challenging as some weightlifting belts tend to interfere with your lift and cause more headache than you may like. A belt that will allow you to move freely while still offering great support is out there and Gymreapers is the way to go. Being lightweight and form fitting, you still get optimal movement for whatever exercise you need done as powerlifters and bodybuilders along with added core support and stability.
Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt
Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt offers superior back support and protection for all those big lifts. A premium lifting belt, this is a durable option made from real reinforced leather with double stitching around the edges. While this is a sturdy belt, it won’t impede on your lifts and a lightweight metal buckle doesn’t get in the way. Lightweight and form fitting, this belt will give you great support while offering a snug fit and still allowing for optimal versatility. Great for deadlifts and those other legs and back workouts, this belt can allow you to generate strength and power effectively.

Gymreapers 7MM Leather Weightlifting Belt provides great support for your back and legs. Durable and form fitting, this is perfect for those heavy lifts.

Pros

Great for deadlifts, as well as other legs and back workouts
Superior back support and protection
Lightweight and form fitting while still being versatile

Cons

Some complaints around comfort but it is sturdy

Price: $89.99

Benefits Of A Weightlifting Belt
Lifting belts provide for a host of solid benefits for powerlifters, bodybuilders, and other strength athletes, and primarily, they can support your core which is needed to conduct those heavy lifts. Reducing lower back strain is a huge benefit, and although a lifting belt is not a back brace, since it helps keep your core engaged (1), less strain on your lower back occurs and that increased stability allows for better range of movement (2). Now that you have proper form, your risk of injury decreases, and you can now lift more weight efficiently with less worry of unwanted pain. Ultimately, a weightlifting belt provides support, comfort, and versatility to your lifts so you can be comfortable lifting huge weight while also being safe and protecting your overall physical health.
What To Look For
Finding the right belt is really all a choice of personal preference and comfort, but there are some things to consider to find exactly what you are looking for to get out of the belt. For serious weightlifters, you may want to look into a leather lifting belt. These tend to be durable and last quite a long time. You also want to consider if you want a prong buckle or a lever. A lever buckle allows for greater convenience and a snug fit but again, this just comes down to your personal preference on the matter.

Leather Vs. Nylon
Leather weightlifting belts are indeed one of the most popular and effective options for powerlifters and bodybuilders because they provide maximum support for the heavy lifts. There are different types of leather as well and the decision to choose one type of leather is usually based on personal preference. But top grain is usually the most durable where as suede (split leather) is not as much so. There are also synthetic leather belts which are obviously not the same as real leather although some can be pretty effective. A good leather belt should be able to adequately support you by keeping your core muscles compressed and spine stiff throughout the lift (3).
Nylon material is much more flexible than leather and it’s also much more versatile. So, if you need a belt to do CrossFit type activities and/or if you just need some additional back support for walking around the house or anywhere really, then nylon is a good option. Nylon belts won’t entirely have the same support as a leather belt would but it really depends on the resistance loads used for weightlifting/activities (4). Many top athletes and lifters go with nylon for its versatility. And there are often many different materials blended with nylon for maximum durability and support like neoprene, polyester, and cotton.
How We Choose
When looking at the best weightlifting belts, especially for those powerlifters and bodybuilders, it’s important for us to first look at the reputation of the brand because a company should work for you and give you the best product around. The quality of the belt and its material is also very important because longevity and durability matter greatly. You don’t want a belt to last a short time, for it takes some getting used to and once it’s broken in, this can work wonders for you. We lastly look at price. We know sports equipment can get expensive but it is possible to find great products at affordable prices to maximize your gains without breaking the bank.

FAQ Section
What is the best weightlifting belt?
SBD 13mm Lever Belt. This belt is an awesome lifting belt designed for powerlifters and strongmen to really enhance overall support and strength. The English hide is prepared over five months in order to ensure strength and longevity so this belt is more comfortable with time and will last you well into your training years.
Do I really need a belt?
While you don’t really need a belt, it can greatly affect your lifts in a positive way. If you are more comfortable taking a natural approach, that is absolutely fine, but a belt can give you comfort and support in knowing you are more safe lifting that big weight as opposed to without (5).
When is the best time to wear a belt?
It is best to wear a belt when maxing out and performing very heavy lifts. But for those who are more comfortable wearing it for most exercises, that works too. It is important that you don’t become reliant on it because that can cause negative effects that you just don’t want.
Wrap Up
Finding the right weightlifting belt can be challenging. Your weightlifting goals and big gains are important for your overall growth but doing so safely and effectively should be top priority. When looking for a good belt, it is helpful to consider both flexibility and support, but also durability and affordability. A good quality lifting belt can be your best friend in the gym for years and the investment should only be a benefit to you. Check out our list of these top lifting belts and really work to see those big gains get even bigger.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

Miyamoto, K.; Iinuma, N.; Maeda, M.; Wada, E.; Shimizu, K. (1999). “Effects of abdominal belts on intra-abdominal pressure, intra-muscular pressure in the erector spinae muscles and myoelectrical activities of trunk muscles”. (source)
Finnie, S. B.; Wheeldon, T. J.; Hensrud, D. D.; Dahm, D. L.; Smith, J. (2002). “Weight Lifting Belt: Motivations For Use”. (source)
Kingma, Idsart; Faber, Gert S.; Suwarganda, Edin K.; Bruijnen, Tom B.; et al. (2006). “Effect of a Stiff Lifting Belt on Spine Compression During Lifting”. (source)
Cholewicki, Jacek; Juluru, Krishna; Radebold, Andrea; Panjabi, Manohar M. (1999). “Lumbar spine stability can be augmented with an abdominal belt and/or increased intra-abdominal pressure”. (source)
Frankel, Christopher C.; Kravitz, Len. “The Weight Belt Controversy”. (source)

Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts Review

Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts Review

Lift in style with these custom dyed lifting belts from Pioneer.
Product Overview
When it comes to lifting big and maximizing our gains, a weightlifting belt is one of those lifting tools that is essential in our gym bag. With many benefits to keeping us safe for longevity and more stable for better performance, it is no wonder why so many lifters have gravitated towards using a belt. As an efficient lifting tool to really maximize all gains, a weightlifting belt can change anyone’s mind once they pack on the weight. Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts offer a great quality belt that can be customized to whatever you like so you lift in style, but more importantly, your style.
While a weightlifting belt is not a back brace, with the increased engagement of your core and better stabilization when under so much weight, it will alleviate stress on your low back to allow for less pain and better range of motion. By using a weightlifting belt, it will allow you to worry less about that unwanted pain and more about form and your actual workout (1,2).

Shop at Pioneer
Pioneer is a division of General Leathercraft Manufacturing, Inc., a premiere company creating high-quality leather products including weightlifting belts and other exercise accessories and aids. With a great product line dedicated to assisting the needs of athletes everywhere, Pioneer has made it their mission to keep active individuals healthy and safe, especially as they lift big weight. Along with an amazing line of lifting belts, Pioneer also produces top tier knee wraps, wrist wraps, elbow wraps, and other equipment to keep athletes safe overall. Their mission is to provide great customer service and a product you will love to have and use. A company full of integrity and quality, Pioneer is a standout in the exercise equipment community.

Custom Dyed Belts Option
When it comes to Pioneer’s customization belt options, you can choose from five options to support your weightlifting needs.
Custom Dyed Lever Belts
This option comes in 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around and your choice of thickness to give you a durable and high-quality belt to last a lifetime. The adjustable lever allows for adjustment every half inch so your belt fits just right to offer the most versatility for your lifts.
Pioneer Cut Custom Dyed Power Belts
The Pioneer Cut is a patent pending design unique in that it allows for ½’’ increments as opposed to the traditional 1’’. That means you can find the best fit for you belt so you remain safe and with the correct tightness. This version is also available in 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around with your choice of thickness.
4’’ Custom Dyed Pioneer Cut Training Belts
Also including that patent pending Pioneer Cut design, these training belts are available with 4’’ in the back and taper to 2.5’’ on the sides and front. A great option for comfort and training, this belt is one to check out.
4’’ Custom Dyed Training Belts
Similar to the Pioneer Cut Training Belts, these are 4’’ in the back and taper to 2.5’’ on the sides and front.  Perfect for training with the wider back and more narrow front, this allows for comfort and a great feel when under so much weight.
Custom Dyed Power Belts
These power belts are single pronged and are 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around with your choice of thickness. The rounded tongue option on these is only available in the 4’’ power belts, not the 3’’. Great for those looking for a more snug and secure feel, these power belts are awesome for lifting huge weight.

Customization Process
The custom dyed weightlifting belts are hand dyed by using a professional dye in house. For optimal quality, they are treated with a conditioner, polish, and sealant to really maximize look and longevity. These belts are built using the same 100% Vegetable Tanned Sole Leather that is used for all their belts and the customization is easy and allows for many options.
When looking to customize, you will start with your belt option and move onto custom dye options. From there you will choose your color and a fade option if you’d like to give the belt that extra dimension of style. For those looking to customize the outside and inside of their belt with a laser-burned message, you have that option as well to place it on the belt, on the loop, on the tongue, and to even laser-burn an image. Moving to the inside, you will have the option to embroider a message inside as well as choose your interior color. Next is the buckle type, belt tongue, buckle color, black edging, and stitch color to really round out your unique custom belt.
With so many options to choose from and an easy-to-use customization tool bar on their site, creating your unique belt is easy, fun, and will produce a great lifting belt for you.

Price & Effectiveness
As we look to the pricing of these belts, it is important to know that these prices listed below are solely for the starting cost of the belt. All customization options may have an additional price for each part of the above process so just be aware when customizing your own belt.
Custom Dyed Lever Belts: $152.00-$182.00
Pioneer Cut Custom Dyed Power Belts: $152.00-$182.00
4’’ Custom Dyed Pioneer Cut Training Belts: $152.00
4’’ Custom Dyed Training Belts: $132.00
Custom Dyed Power Belts: $132.00-$162.00
Pros

High-quality leather belts built to last
Great options in the lever belts and Pioneer Cut design
Awesome customization option throughout the whole process
From a reputable company in Pioneer

Cons

Premium priced options
Price can get more expensive with more customization options

Check out our list of the Best Weightlifting Belts for more great lifting products!

Overall Value
Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts are a great option for all your lifting belt needs. By using a weightlifting belt you work to tackle any issues when it comes to pain and strain, while also giving yourself the edge when it comes to performance. By offering more balance and stability, you can really tackle any big lift that comes your way. What you are really getting is a high-quality belt with awesome customization options for your style from a company who knows the needs of lifters. Check out Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts and see what these can do for your massive lifts today.
Try Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Pioneer and Envato
References

Miyamoto, K.; Iinuma, N.; Maeda, M.; Wada, E.; Shimizu, K. (1999). “Effects of abdominal belts on intra-abdominal pressure, intra-muscular pressure in the erector spinae muscles and myoelectrical activities of trunk muscles”. (source)
Finnie, S. B.; Wheeldon, T. J.; Hensrud, D. D.; Dahm, D. L.; Smith, J. (2002). “Weight Lifting Belt: Motivations For Use”. (source)

Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Review

Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Review

These lifting straps are a great option for strength athletes everywhere for enhanced grip.
Product Overview
Lifting straps and other lifting accessories are perfect ways to ensure our grip strength remains strong and stable so we can build that desired muscle as best we can. For those looking to lift big and start to see some serious size, having a good pair of lifting straps is essential in promoting comfort and assistance to boost your lifts. On top of that, any hesitancy you have about lifting such big weight will subside and you can tackle these grueling workouts much better. Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are perfect for strength athletes everywhere to assist in max reps and hard-earned PRs.

A good lifting strap provides for a host of benefits to your lifts and won’t disappoint when it comes to results. By working to enhance your grip, you offer a comfortable and versatile hold for less slippage and a snug feel to tackle any big lift. For those heavier lifts, that assistance can lead to desired muscle growth and reduced pain and injury, thus giving you support to work past any soreness with ease and see gains happen (1,2). Serious Steel has designed these figure 8 lifting straps to do that and more on your quest of weightlifting gains.

Shop at Serious Steel
Serious Steel is an amazing company based out of Roanoke, Virginia with the goal of creating the best and highest quality fitness equipment at the right prices and with great customer service. With a passion for exercise and fitness, Serious Steel seeks to boost the lives of their customers by giving them top tier products to enhance all of their gains. Everything can be used by bodybuilders, strongmen, powerlifters, and anyone serious about lifting, fitness, and working out to better themselves every day.

Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Highlights
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are the top choice in strap from serious strength sports athletes and competitors. Made to withstand serious abuse from those monster lifts, these straps are not cheap or flimsy and can really boost your PRs. Made from heavy duty webbed cotton, extra stitching offers great seam reinforcement to add to the durability of these straps. With three size variations, you have the luxury to find a strap that is right for you and a one year warranty is the right amount of time to try these out and make sure they work for you. A great look and an even better design, these lifting straps are what you need to see some serious gains.

Key Aspects Of These Lifting Straps
Three Strap Sizes
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps come in three sizes so everyone can find a size that works for them. The 10’’ strap is great for those with a wrist size of up to 6.75’’ while the 12’’ is for those with a wrist size of 6.75’’ or higher. For fatter bars and axle bars, the 14’’ axle straps will help take care of all your lifting needs when it comes to a larger, more challenging bars to grip.
Material & Quality
These figure 8 lifting straps are built to last and can stand against any abuse put on by any of your workouts. Made from heavy duty webbed cotton, you get some assistance from a strong material that still allows for versatility and solid movement. Double stitched at the connecting end and cross stitched throughout offers seam reinforcement so these straps stay in place and stay in good shape.
How To Use
These straps are easy to use and not cumbersome to have to take on and off during your workout. Put one hand through the back of the strap and then loop the other end of the band under the bar. Next, put your other hand through the strap and grab the bar. It’s as simple as that and you’re ready to lift.
For some lifters, they prefer the straps completely outside the bar and others want a more snug fit with the strap under their index or pinky finger but the choice is up to personal preference.

Price & Effectiveness
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are the perfect lifting accessory to help you tackle any big lift or weighted challenge that may arise.
Pros

Three sizes at the same price
Durable and made from quality material
Easy to use and effective
From a reputable company

Cons

Sizing may be slightly off
The overlap of the straps can be a bit uncomfortable

Price: $23.90

Check out our list of the Best Lifting Straps for more great products!

Wrap Up
Having a good pair of lifting straps is exactly what you need to tackle any big lift or challenge that comes your way. With Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps, you get the most bang for your buck with a durable and high-quality lifting strap. Designed for comfort, versatility, and to withstand any abuse, these straps will work to assist with any lift that comes your way. Serious Steel knows the needs of athletes and seeks to bring the best products to the table. What you are really getting is a great pair of lifting straps with variety, a great price, and an honest company backing them. Check out Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps today and see what these can do for all of your lifting goals.
Try Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Serious Steel
References

Hori, Naruhiro; Kawamori, Naoki; Chiu, Loren Z. F. (2009). “Pulling movement in weightlifting exercises from a biomechanical standpoint”. (source)
Weiss, A. K.; Tsai, H. H.; Puffer, J. C. (2002). “Bilateral Wrist Pain- Weightlifter”. (source)

Eleiko Kettlebells Review To Maximize Strength & Hard Training

Eleiko Kettlebells Review To Maximize Strength & Hard Training

These kettlebells are durable and effective to help maximize all of your strength and hard training goals.
Product Overview
Kettlebells are great fitness tools to help enhance your growth as you seek the most out of strength training while also boosting aerobic capacity. As simple and convenient tools, kettlebells can be used at home or in the gym and provide for an effective way to power through training and into performance. Putting a priority on strength and hard training, Eleiko Kettlebells are sure fire products to help you achieve any and all of your goals.
Kettlebells work to provide benefits in a multitude of areas and can be used with a variety of exercises. As equipment for a full body workout, you can increase strength, endurance, and flexibility during any hard training (1). Promoting things like power, balance, and stability, you can work to nail down form to enhance mind-muscle connection while also allowing your body to fall into better muscle memory for bigger lifts (2). Eleiko Kettlebells can do all this and more as they seek to be simple, convenient, and effective ways to train.

Shop at Eleiko
Eleiko is on a mission is help make people stronger so they perform better in sports and in life. Their journey to making workout equipment is fascinating and started with their main metal product; waffle irons. Focusing on innovation and being committed to quality and performance, they sought to improve the lives of others and shift their focus to kettlebells, barbells, and more so those who want to can improve their strength training and performance to be the best they can be.

Check out our list of the Best Kettlebells for more great equipment!

Eleiko Kettlebells Highlights
Eleiko Kettlebells capitalize on the many benefits that a kettlebell can do from strength training, to endurance work, to promoting better form. Eleiko knows that athletes prioritize both training and performance, and while they are essentially one in the same, those at the top of their game know how to separate them and Eleiko has created a set of training kettlebells and competition kettlebells so all can improve their strength and hard training goals.

Training Kettlebells
These well-constructed kettlebells are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.
Check Out Eleiko Training Kettlebells Here

Competition Kettlebells
These competition kettlebells are designed for performance and calibrated for competition and come in popular weight ranges. Using high-grade iron and a molded construction for exceptional durability, these kettlebells are carefully calibrated for competitive use with a wide flat base and non-corrosive steel handle. Regardless of the weight, each kettlebell is identical in size so you can continue to strength train with consistent equipment.
Check Out Eleiko Competition Kettlebells Here
Price & Effectiveness
Both of these Eleiko kettlebells, whether for training or for competition, are perfect for improving your strength and hard training goals. Built to last and highly durable, you absolutely can’t go wrong by using these in your home or at the gym.
The training kettlebells range in weight from 4kg all the way up to 56kg. Prices range from $25.00 to $163.00.
The competition kettlebells range in weight from 8kg to 32kg. Prices range from $65.00 to $153.00.
Pros

Durable and consistent
Great weight options for variety
Perfect for strength work and hard training
Great grips on both for stability and added strength

Cons

Premium priced

Eleiko Ambassador
Harrison Maurus – Weightlifter

Harrison Maurus is an American weightlifter on Team USA and an Eleiko ambassador, seeking to promote their great workout products to further his goals, but also those of others. He currently holds 10 American records and the Youth World Record in the clean and jerk. His past three World Championships finishes have been a bronze medal in 2017, 6th in 2018, and 9th in 2019, but that hasn’t stopped Maurus from continuing to compete at a high level to achieve his goal of a world title. Relying on Eleiko to help power his strength and hard training goals, Maurus knows just what it takes to be the best in the world.
Overall Value
Eleiko Kettlebells are great workout tools to really power you through any strength goals or hard training. Made from high-quality material and designed for optimal effectiveness, you can’t go wrong with a great kettlebell to add to your home or gym routine. What you are really getting is a top tier kettlebell that is built to last and designed for all your strength training goals. Check out Eleiko today and watch your strength, endurance, and stability grow to new heights.
Try Eleiko Kettlebells Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Eleiko, Harrison Maurus Instagram and Envato
References

Kravitz, Len. “Kettlebell Research Update”. (source)
Beardsley, Chris; Contreras, Bret (2014). “The Role of Kettlebells in Strength and Conditioning: A Review of the Literature”. (source)