The essentials
Shoes
This is the area you want to invest! Your shoes are your most important bit of kit.
There are going to be 3 types you'll eventually invest in but start with a good all round training shoe.
THE ALL ROUNDER - something with enough stability to lift in but enough give to be able to do things like short distance running and burpees in. We recommend either the R.A.D's or Nike Metcon Free.
THE RUNNER - These will be essential for longer runs but please do not wear these for any heavy lifting. This is entirely down to personal preference and gait so you'll need to do your own research on these.
THE LIFTER - When you start hitting heavier % work stability is ESSENTIAL. We can't be lifting in our running shoe or we're going to do more damage than good. We recommend a slight raised heel so either a Nike Romaleo or Reebok Legacy Lifter is perfect.
skipping rope
Your decision on ropes will come down to 2 factors... 1 how far along you are in your double under journey and 2 how heavy you like the handles.
If you're a beginner we would suggest a slightly heavier rope to give you a little more feedback. You can find this through The Armoury or we also have Velites options available in the gym,
If you're confident in your double unders then a lighter rope may be better suited to you. We personally love the SGF custom made ropes which you can order through their website.
GRIPS
These will become a staple part of your life for anything on the rig. Whether you're building volume or brand new to this your hands will thank you for these game changers.
We suggest either the Velites Quad Ultra (chalkless) or the Velites All Terrain (can be used on chalked or smooth surfaces)
These can be purchased at a discounted rate in the gym.
Taking sh*t more seriously
Lifting belt
Lifting belt
Lifting belt
An important piece of kit but it's more important to learn proper technique and not rely on this.
Once you are confident in your lifting then a belt will give you something to brace against and lift heavier weights.
The elite belt is 2Pood but these can be very pricey! You can grab a reasonably priced belt from The Armoury, Velites or Element26.
thumb Tape
Lifting belt
Lifting belt
The purpose of thumb tape is to provide support and protection to the thumbs, preventing injuries like blisters, strains, and sprains by reducing friction and pressure from the barbell's knurling, particularly when using a hook grip, allowing for heavier lifts with better grip while minimizing skin irritation.
You can grab a roll of Mammal Strength Tape in the gym at a discounted rate.
Knee Sleeves
Lifting belt
Knee Sleeves
These are absolutely not essential for beginners! Like a belt, learn your form first.
Knee sleeves provide added support and can help with stability and performance, particularly if you are an intermediate to advanced lifter.
We like Murgs or Strength Shop which come in different thickness' but check your size properly!
Wrist Wraps
Lifting belt
Knee Sleeves
The primary purpose of wrist wraps in weightlifting is to provide stability and support to the wrist joint, preventing overextension and potential injury during heavy lifts by keeping the wrist in a neutral position
We like Velites wrap around or UKSF velcro options available through The Armoury.
Recovery & Supplements
callus care
callus care
callus care
It's going to happen. There's no escaping it I'm afraid.
Keep your hands soft using a balm and keep the hard bits filed down.
Velites offer an entire callus recovery pack which will last for ages, Or you can order a GripCure to attach to your bag for on the go.
Speak to one of us in the gym to order.
supplements
callus care
callus care
Protein, Creatine and Electrolytes. Everything else is non-essential!!
If you are getting sufficient protein in your diet then this won't be needed.
Creatine is used to increase strength, improve performance and help keep their minds sharp. It's one of the most widely researched supplements and is essential - especially for women!
Electroly
Protein, Creatine and Electrolytes. Everything else is non-essential!!
If you are getting sufficient protein in your diet then this won't be needed.
Creatine is used to increase strength, improve performance and help keep their minds sharp. It's one of the most widely researched supplements and is essential - especially for women!
Electrolytes are minerals that help your body function properly by regulating fluids and nerve and muscle activity. It's good to take electrolytes after a sweaty workout to replenish lost salts.
All of your supplement needs can be found in The Armoury or we have LMNT Electrolyte sachets in the gym.
massage
callus care
massage
This does not mean you need to book a full body massage every week (if you want one then book with Kylie at Optimum Humans)
A foam roller or massage gun will be your best friend. You can buy a foam roller at very reasonable prices from Amazon. We recommend the Pulsio massage gun. It's slightly more pricey but it's worth it.