Gear Up
The 101 on CrossFit Equipment with Coach Devon.
I had been lifting for a few years when I decided to ditch the boring gym routine and try CrossFit. I was excited to learn new things but immediately overwhelmed by all the gear and gadgets that the more experienced athletes had on.
Investing in equipment can help you enhance your training and prevent injuries, but it's important to prioritize purchases based on your current level and your future goals. You’re already investing in your health by showing up – you shouldn’t waste money on things you don’t need.
So, what might you need?
Let's review all of the options before we tell you what's necessary!
1. Grips
Beginners might not need grips right away as they work on strict strength and focus on building natural calluses first. However, if you frequently perform high-rep pull-ups, toes-to-bar, or muscle-ups, grips can protect your hands from tearing. Consider investing in a file to keep those callouses in check; do this 1-2x per week to prevent protruding calluses that catch on a kip. Chalk is also very drying on your hands. Be sure to keep your hands moisturized to prevent dry cracks that will limit you on bar work.
There are a wide variety of grips. Try your friends grips before ordering your own.
2. Lifting Belts
Lifting belts can help us create intra-abdominal. The pressure we create in our torso helps to maintain safe postures through various movements such as a heavy squat or deadlift. A belt can be a useful way to physically and mentally cue this process. It's important for athletes to not become reliant on having their belt to create intra-abdominal pressure. Athletes can become reliant on their lifting belt and mentally not feel capable without it. We recommend our athletes limit a belt’s use to only being used when working at near maximal loads.
3. Speed Ropes
If you’re using a rope that’s too long or too short, and if you’re using a different rope every time you practice double-unders, your progress might be hindered just a bit because of that inconsistency… if you’re determined to learn double-unders, triple-unders, or crossovers, invest in a speed rope and tailor it to your height. Then, practice consistently!
4. Thumb Tape
Reminder: hook grip = a strong grip!
Thumb tape is used for lifts that involve hook grip (i.e. Olympic lifts like snatches and cleans, or deadlifts). It helps protect the thumbs from feeling sore and sandpapered. It’s not a must-have when you first start but, if you experience discomfort during these lifts, give it a try.
5. Lifting Shoes
Most athletes use “cross-training shoes” that are versatile for lifting and cardio movements. (Pssst, go check out our shoe talk blog post)! But, if you're serious about Olympic lifting or performing heavy squats, lifting shoes provide a stable base with their hard sole, and increase ankle range of motion through their elevated heel. We recommend starting with a solid cross-training shoe that will suit the majority of your works and then buying a good pair of running shoes before investing in lifting shoes.
6. Wrist Wraps
Wrist mobility and strength is a skill that requires training. That training occurs during wrist-heavy movements like overhead squats, front squats, wall walks, and handstand-push-ups. That being said, if you experience wrist pain or discomfort, wrist wraps can provide additional support, especially when moving heavy weights or for high reps. Wrist wraps are not the end solution. If you are experiencing wrist discomfort talk to a coach so we can help you strengthen those wrists.
7. Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves can provide support and compression. They can also help with proprioception on depth when squatting. Knee sleeves are not a necessity. However, if athletes feel more stable and confident with them we encourage them to wear them. Similar to a lifting belt, work to not become reliant on them. If you're having knee issues knee sleeves won't fix that but they can be useful while you put in the work to build strong, stable knees. You will also see some athletes use their knee sleeves for rope climbs to protect their ankles from rope burns. It's a two-for-one with this investment.
8. Chalk
Have you noticed that the chalk buckets go missing some days? It's no coincidence! Chalk is used specifically for movements that require a strong, secure hold, such as pull-ups, deadlifts, and kettlebell swings. It’s not used just because your hands are sweaty! While it does dry sweat, chalk is necessary to create friction for dynamic movements, not for static holds like walking dumbbell lunges. Less chalk breaks, more moving!!
So, what's necessary? The basics!
Start with gym clothes that you feel confident in and some training shoes. Gradually add specialized gear as you progress and identify specific goals you want to achieve and areas where you need extra support. Have a reason for buying new gear. Ask yourself, how will this gear help me?
When you are looking to purchase new gear don’t be shy to ask your fellow members and coaches any questions. What brand do other athletes use? Is there a discount code pinned up on our bulletin board? Does anyone want to share shipping costs?
-Coach Devon