Strength Athlete's Gym Kit

A 13mm belt is stiffer and braces harder, which serious lifters want on maximal squats and pulls. It is less comfortable and overkill until you are moving real weight.

For high-bar and front squats, a 0.75in heel improves depth and an upright torso. For deadlifts, go flat or barefoot-style — the heel works against you.

Most gyms that ban loose chalk allow liquid chalk — it dries to nothing and leaves no dust or floor mess. Check your gym's rules, but it is the clean compromise.

Cycle it. Tolerance builds fast and caffeine loses its edge; use it on heavy days and go without on volume or recovery days.