To perform as well as possible on maximum effort attempts, using chalk is crucial for lifts like the bench, squat, deadlift, snatch, and clean & jerk. Simply put: to be your best, you need some chalk. [Read more…]

Knee sleeves serve many important functions: they help prevent injury and they help add a few pounds onto the squat. What’s not to like?

Two of the most popular knee sleeves for lifting, especially powerlifting, are the SBD and Rehband knee sleeves.

Both are IPF approved, made of high quality neoprene, and stitched to last for years.

So which is better? Let’s take a look. [Read more…]

Released in 2016, the Lever Belt by SBD quickly became a popular choice for powerlifters based upon the reputation of SBD to release some of the world’s finest lifting products. When the reviews came in, the SBD Lever Belt was no different: it’s very good for helping a lifter keep their core braced.

Summary:

Both are high quality belts that will drastically improve your ability to keep a tight, braced core during heavy lifts. While the SBD lever belt may be the highest quality belt available, it is likely not “twice as good for twice the price” as the Inzer lever belt – they’re really both fantastic.

If you want the best of the best, go with SBD.

If you want a superb belt, go with Inzer.

SBD Lever Belt: Pros and Cons

Pros

• One-of-a-kind hybrid lever/prong locking mechanism provides an airtight fit
• Incredibly well-designed and built to last forever

Cons

• Only comes in 13mm, no 10mm option exists at this time
• At $228, it is the most expensive belt on the market
• Like other stiff lever belts, the lever lock mechanism can take several sessions to break in and function properly

The SBD Lever Belt is available from Anderson Powerlifting.

KigerStrength Review

Inzer Lever Belt: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Easily achieve a very tight fit with lever
• Can be loosened quickly
• Belt stays in place, does not slide against body
• Available in 10mm and 13mm thickness
• Guaranteed for life

Cons

• Can be a bit difficult to get completely off after popping the lever, which is easy
• Due to its stiffness, it can take several sessions before the belt begins to break in and conform to the body of the user
  • This also applies to the lever lock mechanism

Brandon Campbell Diamond Review

Both the 10mm and 13mm Inzer Lever Belts are available from Amazon.

SBD Knee Sleeves are considered by many to be the best knee sleeves available (checkout a head to head comparison vs. the STrong knee sleeves).

So, are they available on Amazon?

Unfortunately – they are not. If you prefer to order through Amazon, check out our Top 5 Knee Sleeves, most of which are available through Amazon.

Here is a list of vendors that sell SBD knee sleeves: [Read more…]

In the world of lifting, the SBD knee sleeve was the undisputed champion for maximum support in the squat.

In 2016, Mark Bell’s  STrong Knee Sleeve became IPF Approved, setting them up to battle with SBD for the title of “Best Knee Sleeves” in the industry.

You can purchase STrong knee sleeves from Amazon and SBD knee sleeves from Anderson Powerlifting.

So which is better?

[Read more…]

Wrist wraps have long been used by bodybuilders, olympic lifters, and powerlifters to add extra support to the – you guessed it – wrist joint.

While mostly commonly used for pressing movements like the bench press or military press, wrist wraps also aid in supporting the bar for the back and front squat.

Make sure you check your federation’s rules for equipment before purchasing – although generally most wrist wrap lengths are acceptable (list of approved equipment by federation).

Here are some of the most popular wrist wraps for lifting, all of which are IPF and USAPL approved. [Read more…]

Ammonia smelling salts, aka “nose tork,” triggers the flight or fight mode in your brain, which in turn releases adrenaline and gets you amped before a heavy lift.

Lifters most commonly use nose tork before heavy top sets and 3rd attempts in powerlifting meets, though they can be regularly used in training. Aside from irritating the nose and lungs, they do not pose any significant health risks in small doses.

If you’re looking for where to buy the best nose tork so you can crush some PRs, look no further. [Read more…]