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what exactly is the benefit?

"Wrist straps (also known as cow ties or lifting straps) are sometimes used to assist in gripping very heavy weights. The straps wrap around the wrist and tuck around the bar or weight being lifted, transferring some of the weight directly to the wrist instead of through the fingers. They are particularly useful for the deadlift. Some lifters avoid using wrist straps in order to develop their grip strength. Wrist straps can allow a lifter initially to use more weight than they might be able to handle safely for an entire set, and can place potentially harmful stress on the bones of the wrist."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weight_training

I've been using them recently, for exactly what Caslon posted about. They allow me to lift heavier weight when deadlifting, without my wrists getting tired faster than the rest of my muscles.

I use them for really heavy lifting where my hands cant really keep up but than again I try not to used them too much don't want to ruin my grip strength

Straps are important tool, but should not be used for everything.

While it is important to build grip strength, your forearms generally tired before the larger muscles in the back. Straps can help you lift heavier during mass building back movements. Anytime I go over 110lbs on single arm DB row or over 225lbs on bent-over barbell row, I use straps.

A big burly irishman by name of Seamus McCarthy once aught me an awesome trick he could do with his lifting straps. I'd tell you more but it is definatly XXX and it hurt so good!

UncleverName saidI've been using them recently, for exactly what Caslon posted about. They allow me to lift heavier weight when deadlifting, without my wrists getting tired faster than the rest of my muscles.

You can also use an opposing grip to help with deadlifts. I've found that it's just as effective and is a lot less annoying that dealing with the straps.

And they are dangerous, they weaken your grip. You will never see a competitive powerlifter using them.

hobronto said

UncleverName saidI've been using them recently, for exactly what Caslon posted about. They allow me to lift heavier weight when deadlifting, without my wrists getting tired faster than the rest of my muscles.

You can also use an opposing grip to help with deadlifts. I've found that it's just as effective and is a lot less annoying that dealing with the straps.

ursamajor saidAnd they are dangerous, they weaken your grip. You will never see a competitive powerlifter using them.

Yeah, more or less. I don't know enough to lay down the law on stuff like this, but I do think that, over the long run, you're better off without straps. I think increased grip strength will benefit me more all-around than having a slightly higher deadlift max.

There is a point beyond which your deadlift max cannot increase without increased grip strength (balancing the weight is 1/2 of the battle).

No question, straps will cause injury sooner or later. They are a crutch that lets people feel stronger than they are.

It is just the same as abs without a lower back? Not good.

hobronto said

ursamajor saidAnd they are dangerous, they weaken your grip. You will never see a competitive powerlifter using them.

Yeah, more or less. I don't know enough to lay down the law on stuff like this, but I do think that, over the long run, you're better off without straps. I think increased grip strength will benefit me more all-around than having a slightly higher deadlift max.

oh now i feel smart. i try to keep it all natural. thanks for all the replies.

Caslon6000 said"Wrist straps (also known as cow ties or lifting straps) are sometimes used to assist in gripping very heavy weights. The straps wrap around the wrist and tuck around the bar or weight being lifted, transferring some of the weight directly to the wrist instead of through the fingers. They are particularly useful for the deadlift. Some lifters avoid using wrist straps in order to develop their grip strength. Wrist straps can allow a lifter initially to use more weight than they might be able to handle safely for an entire set, and can place potentially harmful stress on the bones of the wrist."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weight_training

Cas did a great job at giving us a definition. I used to use them but I don't any longer. I highly discourage them from doing power deadlifts. You don't want to be attached to something you can't easily let go if you lose your balance. It could spell disaster to be attached to a very heavy bar that you can't quickly disengage from should an accident happen.
I also noticed that my grip and overall forearm development has increased because I no longer use them.