Hi everyone, I've seen these mentioned in other threads, just kinda curious. Is there a preference or is one better than the other for strength training?

I can almost see the straps being more versatile, where the hooks would only be for lifting a bar (straps could be used on machines, etc). Or do hooks come into play when you get to extreme weights in lifting?

Thanks.

Tim

I haven't tried hooks, but I've tried a couple different styles of straps. I like this loop type the best:

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/7083/84869671lk2.jpg

(Image from http://store.wfwclub.com/hedust.html)

APT Pro Wrist Straps (a JSF sponsor) sells some similar designs.

I use straps for things like "high rep" deadlifts, snatch pulls, heavy unilateral rows, etc. You can't really use hooks if you're going to do anything with a snatch grip and they often don't fit around dumbbell handles.

While straps will wear out over time just the same as hooks, some hooks may bend or deform at heavier weights, so that's something you have to watch out for. I think zenpharaohs had this problem with his old pair. This is likely not a problem with a quality set.

Hi everyone, I've seen these mentioned in other threads, just kinda curious. Is there a preference or is one better than the other for strength training?

I can almost see the straps being more versatile, where the hooks would only be for lifting a bar (straps could be used on machines, etc). Or do hooks come into play when you get to extreme weights in lifting?

Thanks.

Tim

When you do endurance deadlifting, it gets tiresome to wrap the straps between sets. Hooks are just grab and go.

Hooks are not that useful for dumbells; probably not so good for pull-ups either.

I have a pair of these hooks (http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/hook.html) and they're great. Can't imagine I'll ever be able to lift an amount that would deform them (and that's not pessimism - they're very solid/sturdy).

They're great for deads and, as Zen mentioned, don't do very well with dumbbells. Fine for pullups/pulldowns, though, provided you don't have to jump up to reach the bar.

You could add a pair of basic cotton straps (http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/valeo/cottonliftingstraps.html) and still pay less than $20 if you want to find out for yourself which you prefer. :nod:

Personally, I have never used a set of hooks that felt comfortable...I feel like they obstruct the "connection" between my hands and the bar.

I like how I can wrap the straps around the bar and get my hands situated just the way I want. Can also use 'em for dumbells, pullups, etc... they are very versatile.

However, if you are doing massive quantities of weight doing deads for instance, hooks take the grip strength issue out of the equation.

I have both.

The straps have been gathering dust for ages. I just never can get them to give me the feeling that they are actually assisting much.

I use hooks 100%.

I use the Millenium hooks from BB.com. They're rated at 700lbs.

They work on every bar I own plus dumbells (including the SelecTechs, which have a fatter bulged handle). But I lift with 1'' bars.

I also use a pair that GRCRYSTYK sold me. They are the bent-rod kind.
To make them fit everything I had to put them in the vice and lever the ends open a bit more.

But they work great.

If you are looking at weights of 500lbs or more, don't buy a cheapy hook. Make sure they're rated for that weight.

Straps never did it for me.....

I use my hooks (when needed) for pulldowns,chins,deads, dumbell work etc.etc.

Personally, I have never used a set of hooks that felt comfortable...I feel like they obstruct the "connection" between my hands and the bar.



I agree...I'm not a huge fan of hooks - although I haven't had mine very long & I'm trying to give them a fair chance

......give me a set of straps any day