What gear do we need?!
What’s all this special equipment people are using?!
If you’re new to CrossFit, you may notice various members who use an array of personal supplemental “equipment” during certain workouts... find yourself wondering “what’s that for?” and if you might benefit?
As a 11+ year CrossFitter myself - I’d like to offer a little insight on the supplemental equipment I personally use/have found most helpful over the years. Then, you can decide what may work best for you and load up your personal Christmas list :)
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1- MetCons.
Nike Metcons are THE best shoes for CrossFit - they're riding enough for mid-weight lifts (when you don't have to use lifters) but dynamic enough to allow movement for burgess and double unders. Having a shoe that has too much cush can create instability in your base, which is the foundation for everything - so if you invest in any ONE thing, invest in these! The style number doesn't matter, I had a pair of OG metcons for YEARS and they worked greta unitil the heel started to peel off.
2. Knee wraps.
When squatting up above 70% of your RPE (rate of perceived effort) it can be helpful to take on a nice snug set of Rehbands. *Of note: I’m referring to squatting as any variation of a movement to include some form of a squat IE. back/front squat, full squat snatch, squat clean etc. Additionally, they can help support a wonky knee when it comes to technical bodyweight movements like postols or high rep air squats. Not only do Rehbands (or some variation of) assist in adequately keeping the used muscles warm between heavier sets (that may require extra rest=cool down time), they also have been proven to increase lifts by 10%-ish. The extra ‘bounce’ they provide out of the bottom of the hole caaaan get you out of a “sticky” lift, so for heavier weights - it’s a no brainer. They also can double as knee protection on high rep burpees and fold down to protect the calf/shin during box jumps or rope climbs :) The 5mm thickness is plenty for CrossFit.
We offer wholesale discounts on them, but they ship from overseas, so expect a slight delay for arrival times – email back to get fitted! Research them HERE
3- Grips.
Ripping is NEVER fun. However, I personally only use grips for high rep dynamic pull ups in metcons when my hands are feeling extra tender. Omitting them for Strict movements like dead hang pull ups and less skin tugging barbell cycling is encouraged. As These movements provide a good opportunity for callous build up - which I recommend for longevity - you never know when those grips wont be available!
Plus, tough hands translate to hard work, right?
Bear Komplex double hole leather grips are my favorites
4- Tape.
Tape is the less bulky cousin to grips and can be a good sub. Additionally, tape can be used to wrap the thumb for reinforcement during snatches/clean and jerks, which require the use of the hook grip- a lock that puts more pressure on the thumb to secure the dynamic load. (if you’re not hook gripping , you’re wrong!). We have some for sale in the box if you'd like to try it out before buying in bulk online! Lift Genie and LiftRX are my Favorite because it’s a tad wider
5. A Belt.
Like the knee wraps, a belt should only be used for lifts getting up above 70-80% RPE. As the weights increase, your core can give - the security of a belt allows for the body to increase load while staying safe, helping build strength. Your belt should NOT be used as a go-to for core stability – if it feels like you need it when you are >70% of your RPE, then you need to supplement your workouts with additional core strengthening movements and hone in on technical form. A foam core 5" belt works really nicely for dynamic CrossFit WODs, super thick rigid belts should be reserved for Powerlifters (AKA not us!)
Harbinger weight belts are my favorite, reliable and lots of color options!
6. Lifters.
EVERYONE should have lifters! They provide rigidity through the mid foot and ankle on heavier lifts - leaving one lest thing to have to focus on as your weights go up! They also have a rigid raised heal which helps mobility in the bottom of Olympic lifts and provide ability during less cop-lex movements like the back squat. Not all lifters are created equal - for CrossFit, you want a wider toe box and rigid mid foot - so choose wisely!
Reebok is having some crazy good deals and are my lifters of choice!
7. A jump rope
These are not one size fits all, so snag you an amazon basics bearing rope, and check out this video on how to size it for YOU
Reebok is having some crazy good deals and are my lifters of choice!