Are Straps Allowed in Powerlifting? Rules, Exceptions & Smart Training Advice

Powerlifting meets do not allow lifting straps. Raw divisions list what’s permitted (belts, wrist wraps, knee sleeves). Straps aren’t on the list, so they’re out. Some federations may approve adaptive exceptions for documented hand limitations. In training, use straps for volume and hypertrophy, but keep competition practice strapless.

First, clear up a common mix-up

Wrist wraps ≠ lifting straps.

Wrist wraps support the wrist joint and are legal in raw powerlifting (within size limits).

Lifting straps tether your hand to the bar and are not legal in powerlifting meets.

What do the federations actually say?

USA Powerlifting (USAPL)

Raw equipment is explicitly defined: belt, wrist wraps, knee sleeves. If it’s not on the allow-list, it’s prohibited. That excludes straps.

International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)

Classic/Raw rules specify what’s legal and the exact dimensions. Straps aren’t listed, so they’re not permitted.

USPA & WRPF

Similar story. Raw divisions outline approved items. Straps aren’t among them.

Note: Some federations may consider adaptive accommodations for hand-related disabilities on a case-by-case basis. Always contact the meet director well in advance.

What about other strength sports?

Strongman: Straps are commonly allowed (often figure-8s) unless the event is a specific grip test.

CrossFit: Event rules vary. Many competitions ban straps; some exceptions pop up. Always read the brief.

Olympic weightlifting: Straps are normal in training but not allowed in competition.

So… are straps “cheating”?

In competition: yes, because the rules say no.

In training: no. Straps are tool. Used with a plan, they protect your grip bandwidth and let your back and hamstrings do more work.

Lifting Straps: The Controversy (Explained)

Social media turned straps into a hot topic. Why? Because they can raise your deadlift beyond your bare-hand max. Grip is often the limiter. Remove that limiter and the bar moves. Some lifters see 50–200 lb jumps, especially on deadlifts, often sumo. Fans call it smart overload. Critics call it cheating. Let’s unpack the claims.

Why some people call straps “cheating”

1) Sumo leverage + shorter ROM

With straps, some lifters “hang” the bar in their fingertips. On sumo, that can reduce range of motion and allow a more upright, stronger position. Yes, this can inflate a 1RM compared with a meet-legal hand position. In competition, that’s a no-go. In the gym, it’s your call. If you understand it’s not meet-legal and you’re chasing overload or fun, go for it.

2) You must train grip on every pull

If you can’t hold it, it doesn’t count, so the argument goes. Reality: many elite lifters cycle straps in training and still smash strapless numbers on meet day. The winning formula is balance. Keep key sets strapless. Use straps when grip would prematurely end quality back or hamstring work.

3) Not allowed in competition

This point holds up. Powerlifting bans straps because they aren’t on the approved list. But rules shift by sport:

Strongman: Often allowed; figure-8s are common.

CrossFit: Usually banned in comps; training use is common.

Powerlifting: Banned in raw/equipped divisions; adaptive exceptions may exist.

Olympic lifting: Banned on the platform; widely used in training.

Bottom line: If the rulebook bans straps and you use them on meet day, that’s cheating. Use straps in training with intent and they’re simply a smart tool.

Should You Use Lifting Straps in Training? (Body Reapers Coach’s Take)

Your goal sets the rules.

Competition total first?

Keep top sets strapless to build a meet-ready grip. Add straps when needed on back-offs and accessories so your lats, erectors, and hamstrings don’t cut sets short because your hands are toast.

Muscle first (hypertrophy blocks)?

Straps shine here. They take grip out of the equation so you can hammer rows, RDLs, and pulldowns with the intended muscles doing the work.

Balance wins

Straps aren’t “cheating.” They are targeted assistance. Sprinkle them in to drive volume and protect recovery, while keeping a steady diet of strapless practice so your hands and technique stay competition-ready.

Body Reapers coach tip: Finish heavy strapless deadlifts, then slam strapped RDLs or rows. Strength specificity + bodybuilding volume in one session. 

RELATED ARTICLES

Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Maximum Grip and Performance in 2025

Lifting Straps vs Hooks: Which Is the Ultimate Grip Solution?

Best Lifting Straps to Use in Training (Body Reapers Picks)

We make gear that works as hard as you do. Choose what matches your movements and phase.

For Beginners & Recreational Powerlifters

Body Reapers Padded Lifting Straps

Comfy wrist padding. Grippy cotton webbing. Quick setup.

Why you’ll love them: Easy learning curve, less wrist bite, rock-solid for rows, RDLs, and machine pulls.

For Competitive Powerlifters & Strongman Athletes

Body Reapers Figure-8 Lifting Straps

Max lock-in for heavy pulls and deadlift variations.

Why you’ll love them: Minimal setup, maximal connection, built for big numbers.

For Hand Injuries or Limited Grip

Body Reapers Lifting Hooks

Let the hook grab the implement so you can keep training back, glutes, and legs.

Why you’ll love them: Keeps you moving when grip is the bottleneck. Great for rehabbing or working around limitations.

FAQs

Why are straps banned in powerlifting meets?

Powerlifting tests strength within a published equipment list. Straps remove grip as a limiter and change bar interaction, so they’re excluded for fairness.

Are wrist wraps the same as straps?

No. Wraps stabilize the wrist and are legal (within size limits). Straps attach your hand to the bar and are illegal on meet day.

Do straps ruin grip strength?

Not if you program smartly. Keep key sets strapless. Use straps for high-rep or fatigue-limited volume. Result: muscle growth and meet-ready hands.

Can beginners use straps?

Yes, after technique work. Use them to push safe volume without shredding your hands early on.

Are figure-8 straps allowed in powerlifting?

No. They’re still straps. Great in strongman or training, not legal on the powerlifting platform.

Coach’s verdict

Competition: No straps. Train how you compete.

Training: Straps are a smart tool for volume, hypertrophy, and longevity.

Plan: Blend strapless specificity with strapped assistance. That’s how you build a bigger total and keep the hands happy.

Ready to train smarter? Gear up with Body Reapers straps and lift with confidence. If you want me to tailor this page with internal links, schema, and on-page SEO for your exact products, drop your URLs and I’ll finalize it.