Blog

Essential gear for strength training

Avatar photo

Will Gorringe


Clients often ask about equipment they may need to invest in as their strength training progresses. So we've put together a list of all the accessories we recommend, from lifting belts to wrist straps. If you have any questions, please ask your coach, we'll be happy to help.

Lifting Belts

Belts play a crucial role in supporting your lower back and core muscles during squats and deadlifts. By stabilising your spine, a quality lifting belt allows you to lift with confidence and can reduce the risk of injury. We recommend a 3” belt for most people as a universal belt since it allows maximum comfort for deadlifts, some lifters may switch to a 4” belt for squats and heavy presses. RDX offer a 4” Lumbar support with a 2.5” front which we find works well for most people.

RDX Weightlifting Belt

Body Mentors Recommends

RDX Black 4 Inch Weightlifting Belt

£23.99 from Amazon UK.

View on Amazon

Lifting Shoes

The foundation of a strong lift starts from the ground up. Investing in the right pair of lifting shoes can make a world of difference. With a flat, non-compressible sole, lifting shoes provide an incredibly stable base, allowing you to generate maximum force and maintain proper foot positioning during lifts. Lifting shoes are great for squats, bench press and overhead press.

For beginners to intermediate we recommend the Nike Savaleos or the Adidas Powerlift 5. They’re both a great option for an all-round lifting shoe. The Nike lifting shoes are generally a little narrow in the toe box, so we suggest sizing up half a size to allow your feet some extra space.

For more experienced lifters, the Nike Romaleos 4 are a great option. They have a slightly higher heel lift than the Savaleos, and a more robust base which is ideal for heavy lifts.

Beginner / Intermediate

Nike Savaleos

Body Mentors Recommends

Nike Savaleos

£114.95 from Nike.

View on Nike
Adidas Powerlift 5

Body Mentors Recommends

Adidas Powerlift 5

£90 from Adidas.

View on Adidas

Advanced

Nike Romaleos 4

Body Mentors Recommends

Nike Romaleos 4

£184.99 from Nike.

View on Nike

Deadlifting Shoes

In contrast to lifting shoes, the ideal shoe for a deadlift is one with no heel to toe drop, providing a completely flat base to lift from. For many, a barefoot style shoe, or even a pair of Converse will work well.


Lifting Straps

Beyond a certain weight, grip strength can fatigue more quickly than other muscles. This is where lifting straps come to the rescue.

For Deadlifts

AQF Weightlifting Straps

Body Mentors Recommends

AQF Leather Weightlifting Straps

£10.99 from Amazon UK.

View on Amazon

For Bench/Overhead Press

RDX Thumb Loop Straps

Body Mentors Recommends

RDX Thumb Loop Straps

£9.99 from Amazon UK.

View on Amazon

Knee Sleeves

Knee sleeves offer compression and warmth to the joint, promoting blood flow and stability, which helps to reduce the risk of injury during squats.

A7UK Knee Sleeves

Body Mentors Recommends

A7UK Knee Sleeves

From £54.99

View on A7UK
SBD Knee Sleeves

Body Mentors Recommends

SBD Knee Sleeves

From £59.99

View on SBD Apparel

Avatar photo

Post By

Will Gorringe

Over the past decade, I’ve dedicated myself to the principles of strength training and have witnessed the positive impact it can have on individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. My philosophy revolves around simplicity, consistency, and the belief that everyone has the capacity to become stronger.