Figure 8 weightlifting wrist straps

Abstract

A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap comprises a first closed hand loop 130 and a second closed hand loop 132 connected by a crossover connection. The second closed hand loop 132 is inverted with resp

Description

Field of the Invention The invention relates to Figure 8 weightlifting wrist straps. Background to the Invention When performing exercises and particularly, but not exclusively, heavy lifts, maintaining a firm grip on the bar is a problem. At a ven? basic level, grip may be enhanced by applying gym chalk to the bar and having a roughened surface at least over portions of the bar that will be gripped by the weightlifter. However, this does not begin to address the problem of maintaining a grip on the weightlifting bar when the lifter is lifting very’ heavy weights, perhaps at the limit of their lifting capability. Furthermore, gym chalk is a consumable and leaves a residue on the weightlifting equipment, the floor and clothing. It is known for the weightlifters to wear weightlifting wrist straps to improve their grip. A known weightlifting wrist strap comprises an elongate strip of material with a loop formed at one end. In use, the lifter inserts the free end of the weightlifting wrist strap through the loop to form a larger loop through which the hand is inserted. The free end of the weightlifting wrist strap is then pulled to tighten the weightlifting wrist strap with it positioned at the base of the wrist over the hand with the free end of the weightlifting wrist strap extending across the palm of the hand between the thumb and index finger. The weightlifter then positions their hands over the weightlifting bar with the free end of the weightlifting wrist strap fed under then over the weightlifting bar so that it is between the top of the weightlifting bar and the hands. The weightlifter then grips the weightlifting bar slightly forward of the lifting positions and rotates their bands backwards (towards their body) to tighten the weightlifting wrist strap around the weightlifting bar. This form of weightlifting wrist strap is commonly used and an effective means of improving a weightlifter’s grip on the bar during lifting exercises. This form of weightlifting wrist strap is widely used, but is not particularly easy for the lifter to attach to their wrists and the weightlifting bar, especially on the side of the nondominant hand, and a certain amount of technique is required in order to use these straps properly. Additionally, this form of weightlifting wrist strap enhances the grip of the weightlifter, it is still reliant on the weight! ifter to maintain a firm grip on the weightlifting bar. Should the weight! ifter’s grip relax or be released, the weightlifting wrist strap will unravel and the weightlifting bar will be released. A so-called Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap has been developed that is considered easier to attach to the wrists and weightlifting bar and effectively attached the weightlifter to the weightlifting bar by their wrists, requiring only a minimal grip on the bar. Referring to Figure 1, a known Figure 8 weight lifting strap 10 comprises a length of flexible material, or webbing, 12 that has a first side edge 14 and a second, oppositely disposed, side edge 16 that are connected at a first end region 18 by a first end edge 20 and at a second end region 22 by a second end edge 24. The first end region 18 overlaps the second end region 22 and the two end regions are secured to one another by stitching 26 to form a closed loop. The length of flexible material 12 has a first major surface 28 and a second, oppositely facing, major surface 30. The first and second major surfaces 28, 30 are each bounded by the first and second side edges 14, 16 and the first and second end edges 20, 24. At the point of connection between the first and second end regions 18, 22, the first major surface 28 of the first end region 18 abuts the second major surface 30 of the second end region 22. The area at which the first and second end regions 18, 22 are connected to form a joint connection disposed at one end El of the closed loop. At a midpoint between the two ends El, E2 of the closed loop, the sides of the closed loop are arranged to cross one another at a crossover joint 32 that divides the closed loop into a pair of separate closed hand loops 34, 36. As viewed in Figure 1, at the crossover joint 32, second major surface 30 of the uppermost layer of the length of material 12 abuts the first major surface 28 of the lowermost layer. The crossover joint 32 is secured by stitching the uppermost layer to the lowermost layer. The angle A formed between the sides of the closed hand loops 34, 36 when the crossover joint 32 is secured is approximately 80°. In use, a weightlifter inserts a hand through the hand loop 34 so that the end E1 lies approximately over the top of their wrist. The hand loop 36 is passed under the weightlifting bar and then over the weightlifter’s hand to bring the end E2 opposite the end El into a position approximately over the wrist and the alongside the end El, This is relatively easy to accomplish, even with the weightlifter’s non-dominant hand. The configuration of the prior art Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap is such that it has to twist when it is wrapped around a weightlifting bar and a weighdiftefs hand is inserted through the second closed hand loop and it has a tendency to slip off of the wrist and hand if the weightlifter does not flare their hand by spreading their fingers. Thus, the w^eightlifter has to expend a certain about of effort, both mental and physical, to ensure the prior art Figure 8 weightlifting does not slip off their wrist and hand. This prevents the weightlifter from giving their full attention to the lift and increases the risk of injury. Summary of the Invention The invention provides a Figure eight weightlifting wrist strap as specified in claim 1. The invention also includes a Figure 8 weightlifting strap having a first closed hand loop and a second closed hand loop connected with said first closed hand loop by a crossover connection, wherein the second closed hand loop is inverted with respect to the first closed hand loop. The first and second closed hand loops may comprise respective tapering though-holes. The sides of the first and second closed hand loops form an acute angle where the join the crossover connection. The acute angle may be from 20 to 50° and more preferably from 30 to 45°. The invention also includes a method of wearing a Figure 8 weightlifting strap comprised of length of material having a first side and a second side and joined to form a first closed hand loop connected with a second hand loop connected by a crossover joint, the method comprising: inserting a hand through the first hand loop through an entrance of the first closed hand loop defined by a first longitudinal side edge of the length of material and out though an exit to the first closed hand loop defined by a second longitudinal side edge of the length of material; passing the second closed hand loop under a weightlifting bar; moving the second closed hand loop towards the first closed hand loop; inserting said hand through an entrance of said second closed hand loop that is defined by said second longitudinal side edge and out through an exit of said second closed hand loop that is defined by said first longitudinal side edge; and positioning said first and second closed hand loops at least substantially on a wrist that is attached to said hand, wherein over a top of said wrist a portion of said second major surface that is a part of said second closed hand loop lies against said wrist, respective portions of said first major surface that are a part of said first and second hand loops are disposed in facing at least partially overlying relationship and a portion of said second major surface that is a part of said first closed hand loop faces away from said top of said wrist. The portions of the first major surface disposed in facing relationship form an outer face of an outer end of the second closed hand loop and an inner face of an outer end of the second closed hand loop. The invention also includes a Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap having a first closed hand loop and a second closed hand loop connected by a crossover connection, wherein the second closed hand loop is inverted with respect to the first closed hand loop. Brief Description of the Drawings In the following disclosure, reference will be made to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a prior art Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap; Figure 2 is a top plan view of a Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap according to the invention; Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a plan view showing a first major surface of a length of material from which embodiments of a Figure 8 weightlifting strap as shown in Figures 2 and 3 can be made; Figure 5 is a plan view showing the second major surface of the length of material of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a base weave of the length material of Figures 4 and 5; Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view on line VII-VII in the circled area in Figure 4; Figure 8 shows modified padding for the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap of Figures 2 and 3; Figure 9 shows the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap of Figures 2 and 3 worn on the right hand of a weightlifter with the grip on a weightlifting bar relaxed so the weight of the weightlifting bar is primarily held by the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap; and Figure 10 shows the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap worn as in Figure 9 but with the weightlifter’s left hand used to apply tension to simulate a weight applied to the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap. Detailed Description Referring to Figures 2 and 3, a Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 comprises a length of material, or webbing, 112 (Figures 4 and 5) having a first end edge region 114 defining a first end edge 116 and a second end edge region 118 defining a second end edge 120. The length of material 112 has a first side edge 122 extending from the first end edge 116 to the second end edge 120 and a second side edge 124 also extending from the first end edge 116 to the second end edge 120 and spaced apart from the first side edge. Typically, the first and second side edges 122, 124 are evenly spaced apart so that the width of the length of material between the first and second end edges 116, 120 is constant. The length of material 112 has a length from the first end edge 116 to the second end edge 120. The length of material has a first major surface 126 defined by the first end edge 116, the second end edge 120 and the first and second side edges 122, 124 and a second major surface 128 defined, or bounded, by the first end edge, the second end edge and the first and second side edges. The first and second major surfaces 126, 128 face in opposite directions. Typically, the length of material is a planar member having a substantially uniform thickness, although, as explained in detail below, in some embodiments padding may be provided that increases the thickness of the length of material 112 over at least one portion of its length. Typically, each of the first and second major surfaces 126, 128 has a rectangular area with a rectangular border defined by the first and second end edges 116,120 and the first and second side edges 122, 124. Parts of the length of material 112 are joined so that the length of material forms a continuous loop, or length, configured to define a first closed hand loop 130 and a second closed hand loop 132. The first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 have respective inner ends 134, 136 disposed adjacent one another and respective outer ends 138, 140 that are spaced apart and form opposite ends of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110. At the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130, the first major surface 126 forms an inner face of the first closed hand loop. At the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132, the first major surface 126 forms an outer face of the second closed hand loop. At the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130, the second major surface 128 forms the outer face of the first closed hand loop, while at the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132, the first major surface 126 forms the outer face of the second closed hand loop. In use, the weightlifter inserts a hand through the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 of a Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 to bring the inner faces of the first and second closed hand loops into engage the top of the wrist. The first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 may be sized for different sized users so that, for example, different sized Figure 8 weightlifting wrist straps 110 are available. Sizing of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 and how it is worn by a weightlifter are described in more detail below. The parts of the length of material 112 that are joined comprise the first end region 114 and the second end region 118, which are disposed in overlying relationship. At the position at which they are joined, the second major surface 128 at the second end region 118 faces the first major surface 126 at the first end region 114. The overlying first and second end edge regions 114, 118 are disposed on and joined to the second major surface 128 of the length of material 112 at a position intermediate the first and second end edges 116, 120. Accordingly, the parts of the length of material that are joined form a three-layered crossover joint 143 with the second end edge region 118 of the length of material 112 forming the middle of the three layers. The three-layered crossover joint 143 is disposed at the inner ends 134, 136 of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132. The joined parts are typically joined by stitching 144. The configuration of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is such that the angle Al formed between the opposite sides of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 is approximately 40°. Put another way, the angle formed at the crossover joint 143 (indicated in Figure 3) is approximately 40°. It is to be understood that an angle Al of 40° is given purely by way of example and that in other examples a different angle may be used. Preferably, the angle Al is from 20 to 50° and more preferably from 30 to 45°. Although not essential, the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 may be provided with padding on the inner faces of the outer ends 138, 140 of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132. The padding is configured so that the weightlifter’s wrists will be engaged by a relatively soft padding material. In some embodiments, padding is provided in the form of a piece, or pieces, of a separate material secured to the length of material 112. In currently preferred embodiments, the padding is an integral part of the length of material 112. In the embodiment illustrated by Figures 2 and 3, the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is provided with first padding 236(1) and second padding 236(2) that is an integral part of the length of material 112. The first padding 236(1) is on the inner face of the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130 and the second padding 236(2) is on the inner face of the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132. An example of a length of material 112 with integral padding 236(1), 236(2) from which the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 can be made will now be described with reference to Figures 4 to 7. As best seen in Figure 6, the length of material 112 comprises a base weave 228 that comprises first threading 230 comprising a plurality of threads extending in a first, or lengthways, direction 231 of the length of material (ie in the direction from end edge to end edge 116, 120) and second threading 232 comprising a plurality of threads woven in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction 231. Typically, the second threading 232 will extend at least substantially perpendicular to the first threading 230. The length of material 112 further comprises a plurality of filaments 234 that extend in the first direction 231 and generally parallel to the threads of the first threading 230. The threads of the second threading 232 pass above then below adjacent threads of the first threading 230 and the filaments 234 as they extend across the width of the length of material 112. Although not essential, the threads of the first threading 230 and the filaments 234 may alternate across the width of the length of material 112, although, in some embodiments the filaments 234 may alternate between multiple threads of the first threading 230. For example, there may one filament 234 following each two or three threads of the first threading 230. Referring to Figure 7, the first padding 236(1) is formed by third threading 238 and the second padding 236(2) is formed by fourth threading 240. The third threading 238 comprises a plurality of threads woven onto the base weave 228 so as to at least partially cover the first major surface 126 and the fourth threading 240 comprises threads woven onto the base weave so as to at least partially cover the second major surface 128. The threads of the third and fourth threading 238, 240 may extend in the first direction 231 of the length of material 112 so as to be disposed generally parallel to the threads of the first threading 232 and the filaments 234. Although not essential, the padding 236(1), 236(2) may extend across the full width of the length of the material 112. With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the first padding 236(1) may be disposed intermediate the first and second end edges 116,120 such that a first end 242 of the first padding is disclosed closest the first end edge 116, but is spaced apart from the first end edge 116, and a second end 244 of the first padding is disposed closest to the second end edge 120, but is spaced apart from the second end edge 120. In this embodiment, both ends 242, 244 of the first padding 236(1) are disposed to the right of the halfway point along the length of material (as viewed in the drawing), so that although the second end 242 is the closest of the two ends to the second end edge 120, both ends 242, 244 are disposed closer to the first end edge 116 than they are to the second end edge 120. Although not essential, as shown in Figure 7, the third threading 238 may be woven onto the base weave 228 so as to protrude from the first major surface 126 of the length of material 112, but not from the second major surface 128. The first padding 236(1) is positioned on the length of material 112 such that when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is formed, the first padding is disposed on the inner face of the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130 such that when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is worn, the first padding will lie against the weightlifter’s wrist. With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the second padding 236(2) may be disposed intermediate the first and second end edges 116, 120 such that a first end 246 of the second padding is disclosed closest the first end edge 116, but is spaced apart from the first end edge 116, and a second end 248 of the second padding is disposed closest to the second end edge 120, but is spaced apart from the second end edge 120. In this embodiment, both ends of the second padding 236(2) are disposed to the left of the halfway point along the length of material 112 (as viewed in the drawing), so that although the first end 246 is the closest of the two ends to the first end edge 1116, both ends 246, 248 are disposed closer to the second end edge 120 than they are to the first end edge 116. The first end 242 of the first padding 236(1) is disposed closer to the first end edge 116 than is the first end 246 of the second padding 236(2), while the second end of the first padding 236(1) is disposed further from the second end edge 120 than is the second end 248 of the second padding 236(2). More generally, the first padding 236(1) is disposed closer to the first end edge 116 of the length of material 112 and the second padding 236(2) is disposed closer to the second end edge 120. Although not essential, as shown in Figure 7, the fourth threading 240 may be woven onto the base weave 228 so as to protrude from the second major surface 128 of the length of material 112, but not from the first major surface 126. The first padding 236(2) is positioned on the length of material 112 such that when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is formed, the padding is disposed on the inner face of the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132 such that when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is worn, the padding will lie against the weightlifter’s wrist. The length of material 112 may be provided with protective edging 250 extending along the first and second side edges 122,124. The protective edging 250 may comprise fifth threading comprising a plurality of threads extending along the opposed side edges 122, 124 of the length of material 112. The fifth threading may be woven into the base weave 228 such that it extends generally parallel to the threads of the first threading 230, filaments 234 and threads of the third and fourth threading 238, 240. The fifth threading may be woven into the base weave 228 such that it protrudes from both major surfaces 126, 128 of the length of material 112. The first threading 230 and second threading 232 may comprise threads in the form of spun fibres, preferably synthetic fibres such as nylon or polyester fibres. The first and second threading 230, 232 may be made of the same material. The filaments 234 may comprise a synthetic filament material such as an aramid material. Kevlar® is an example of a suitable filament material. The filaments 234 are harder than the first and second threading 230, 232 and have a greater tensile strength. The filaments 234 may have a diameter not greater than 2.0 mm although, preferably, the filaments 234 have a diameter of no more than 1.0 mm. The provision of the filaments 234 in the base weave 228 increases the tensile strength of the length of material 112, which is accordingly less likely to tear or give way than the materials from which conventional weightlifting wrist straps are made, particularly those made of cotton. The third and fourth threading 238, 240 may comprise threads in the form of spun fibres, preferably synthetic fibres and the material from which the threads are made has a hardness that is less than that of the filaments 234. The padding 236(1), 236(2) formed by the third and fourth threading 238, 240 provides a protective surface that helps to protect the weightlifter’s wrist against abrasion during lifts when the load on a weightlifting bar transfers to the weightlifter’s wrist via the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110. The third and fourth threading 238, 240 may be made of the same material as the first and second threading 230, 232. Alternatively, and preferably, the third and fourth threading 238,240 may be made of a material that is softer than the material from which the first and second threading is formed. Also, it is not essential that the third and fourth threading 238, 240 is made of a synthetic material. In some examples, the third and fourth threading 238, 240 may be made of a natural fibre such as cotton. Since the threads of the third and fourth threading 238, 240 are woven onto the base weave 228 to provide the first and second padding 236(1), 236(2) and are not required as structural elements in the length of material 112, making them of a relatively soft material with relatively low tensile strength, particularly when compared to the tensile strength of the filaments 234, will not negatively affect the overall strength of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110. Although not essential, the fifth threading from which the protective edging 250 is formed may be made of the same material as the third and fourth threading 238, 240. This has the advantage that like the padding 236(1), 236(2), the protective edging 250 will protect the weightlifter’s wrist against abrasion when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is transferring a load from a weightlifting bar to the weightlifter’s wrist. The threads of the third and fourth threading 238, 240 may be thicker, or larger in diameter, than the threads of the first and second threading 230, 232 that form the base weave 228. Although not essential, as shown in Figure 8, in some embodiments multiple threads of the third threading 238 may be disposed in side-by-side relationship so that the first padding 236(1) takes the form relatively wide pads 252. In the illustrated example, the pads 252 are formed by four threads disposed side-by-side. The pads 252 may be configured to define a plurality of rows of pads that extend in the first direction 231 of the length of material 112. The rows of pads 252 may be configured such that the respective pads of each row are offset in the first direction 231 with respect to the pads of the adjacent row, or rows, so as to define a chequer board pattern. The offset may be such that there is some overlap between the respective sets of pads 252 of the adjacent rows and in some examples, the overlapping pads may contact one another. Although not shown in the drawings, the second padding 236(2) may be configured as pads in analogous fashion to the first padding 236(1) shown in Figure 8. The first padding 236(1) may extend over at least substantially the entire area of the first major surface 12. Similarly, the second padding 236(2) may be provided over at least substantially the entire area of the second major surface 128. However, it is preferable that the first and second padding 236(1), 236(2) is provided only on the area of the length of material 112 that will be in contact with a weightlifter’s wrist when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is in use. Primarily, this is because it is only really needed in that area and having more extensive padding is a waste of material. Also, since the threading that forms the first and second padding is made of a relatively soft material, the padding will be susceptible to abrasion damage from the knurling that is typically provided on a weightlifting bar. Figures 4 and 5 show dimensions for the length of the length of material 112 and dimensions if the first and second padding 236(1), 236(2) and their position within the length of material. It is to be understood that the dimensions and positioning shown in Figures 4 and 5 are given purely by way of example and are not to be taken as limiting. As mentioned above, the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap may be made in different sizes to accommodate different users. For example, a female lifter weighting around 50kg will require a different size to a male lifter weighting above 150kg. The dimensions shown in Figures 4 and 5 may apply to a length of material 112 for a medium-sized Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap. Furthermore, while typical weightlifting bars have a diameter in the range 25 to 32mm there are weightlifting bars for strongman events and grip training that have a diameter of around 50 to 75mm. Figure 8 weightlifting wrist straps for use with weightlifting bars of this size may need to be made longer than those made for a standard weightlifting bar. Although not essential, the length of material 112 may be formed using a jacquard loom, which effectively embroiders the padding and optional protective edging onto the base weave as it is woven. Once woven, the strips that form the lengths of material 112 may be separated from the woven material using an ultrasonic cutter. In preferred embodiments, the diameter of the spun fibres is not greater than 1.0 to 2.0 mm. However, this limitation is not essential. The spun fibres may be compressed or 'fluffy'. While spun fibres that are compressed may have a diameter not greater than 1.0 to 2.0 mm, a fluffy fibre will more likely have a diameter greater than 1.0 to 2.0 mm. Where fluffy spun fibres are used, it is preferred that the fibres are not greater than 5.0 mm in diameter. It has been found that the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 functions more effectively than prior art Figure 8 weightlifting weight straps such as that illustrated by Figure 1. In particular, as illustrated by Figures 9 and 10, when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is worn, as the load on the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap increases, the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 tend to tighten around, or choke on, the wrist so that there is no tendency for them to slip off. Referring to Figure 2, to wear the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap on the right hand as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the lifter first inserts the right hand into the first closed hand loop 130. The direction of insertion is from behind the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 as viewed in Figure 2 so that the hand can be imagined coming up out of the plane of the drawing sheet. The insertion of the hand is continued until the inner face of the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130 lies against the top of the lifter’s wrist. The result is that the top and sides of the lifter’s wrist will rest against the first major surface 126 within the first closed hand loop 130 and the second major surface at the outer end 138 will tend to point away from the top of the wrist. Next, the second closed hand loop 132 is pushed under the weightlifting bar 260 and drawn up towards the closed hand loop 130 so that the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is wrapped around the weightlifting bar 260. As viewed in Figure 2, once the second closed hand loop 132 has been passed under the weightlifting bar 260 the bar will lie approximately over the crossover joint 143 and the second closed hand loop 132 is raised out of the plane of the drawing sheet and moved towards the first closed hand loop 130. The weightlifter’s hand, which is already inserted through the first closed hand loop 130 is then passed through the second closed hand loop 132 entering the second closed hand loop from the side of the first major surface 126. The second major hand loop 132 is then moved up the hand until it lies over the top of the wrist and at least partially under the first closed hand loop 132. This is the position shown in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 9, the inner face of the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132 lies against the top of the weightlifter’s wrist so that the top and sides of the wrist are engaged by the second major surface 128 and the first side edge 122 points towards the weightlifter’s knuckles. The inner face of the outer end 138 of the first closed hand loop 130 then lies at least partially over the outer end 140 of the second closed hand loop 132 so that the first major surface 126 extending around the outside of the second closed hand loop 132 faces the first major surface 126 extending around the inside of the first closed hand loop 130. Thus, when the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is wom, the respective parts of the first major surface 126 associated with the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 are disposed in at least substantially facing relationship, while the respective parts of the second major surface 128 associated with the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 face away from one another in approximately opposite directions. It has been found that the effect of this configuration is that the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 tend to tighten around the wrist when under load. Thus, as illustrated by Figure 9, even when the hand is relaxed, the weight of the weightlifting bar 260 will be supported on the weightlifter’s wrist and the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 will close around the wrist and not tend to slip off the wrist. The effect of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 tightening around, or choking on, the weightlifter’s wrist can be seen in Figure 10, where in order to simulate the wight of the weightlifting bars 260, the weightlifter’s left hand is applying tension to the first and second hand loops 130, 132 at the crossover joint 143. It can be seen that the facing surfaces of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 lie flush with one another and the faces that face the top of the weightlifter’s wrist lie flush with the wrist. It can also be seen how the tension force pulling towards the fingertips causes the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 to close tighter around the hand. Accordingly, the weightlifter does not need to take any action, such as spreading the fingers, to prevent the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 from slipping off of their wrist then hand. Instead, the weightlifter is locked onto the weightlifting bar 260 by the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110. What that means is that when the weightlifter is preparing for a lift, all of the muscles in the fore and upper arms can be disengaged, or relaxed, so that the weightlifter is free to concentrate on holding their position and pulling the weightlifting bar and attached weights (not shown). This allows the lifter to completely relax their arm and make it go totally long to create the longest lever possible, while recruiting the back muscles to hold the best lifting position. In other words, the weightlifter is free to concentrate on making the lift and does not have to give any attention to maintain a grip on the weightlifting bar 260, allowing them to adopt the best possible lifting position and reducing the likelihood of injury. The twisting of the length of material to form the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap 110 is such as to create first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 having a funnel-like shape with a relatively narrow entrance and wider exit to each loop. This narrowing, or tapering, of the cross-section of the closed hand loops, which can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, causes them to sit flush against the wrist and to then choke the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap against the wrist once it is pulled by the weightlifting apparatus. It can be seen that the entrance to the first closed hand loop 130 defined by the first side edge 122 is narrower than the exit, which is defined by the second side edge 124. Similarly, the entrance to the second closed hand loop 132 defined by the second side edge 124 is narrower than the exit, which is defined by the first side edge 122. Also, by comparing Figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that the approximately funnellike, or frusto-conical, shape of the first closed hand loop 130 will fit in the similarly shaped second closed hand loop 132 when the two hand loops are brought into facing relationship once wrapped around a weightlifting bar. In particular, as the second closed hand loop 132 is moved towards and into the first closed hand loop 130, and the weightlifter’s wrist, the relatively wider exit of the first closed hand loop receives the relatively narrower entrance to the second closed hand loop. The relatively narrower angle of the opposing sides of the first and second closed hand loops accentuates the tightening, or choking, effect. Having padding 236(1), 236(2) on the interior of the first and second closed hand loops 130, 132 where they should sit against the wrist provides greater comfort than if the base weave were to bear directly against the wrist. It also provides a useful indication to the weightlifter of the face of the closed hand loops that should sit against the wrist, thereby directing the weightlifter to set the Figure 8 weightlifting straps such that they sit flush against the wrist. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second end regions of the length of material from which the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap is formed are joined at the inner ends of the closed hand loops where the crossover joint is made. It is to be understood that this is not essential. However, making the joint here is advantageous when compared with, for example, the prior art weightlifting wrist strap shown in Figure 1 as it means there is no edge formed may dig into the wrist of the weightlifter. In the illustrated embodiment, the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap is made of length of material comprised of a base weave provided strength-enhancing filaments that extend in the lengthways direction of the length of material and padding on the inner faces of the first and second closed hand loops. It is to be understood that it is not necessary that the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap is made from this particular material and any other suitable material may be used. It is particularly to be understood that neither strength-enhancing filaments nor padding are essential elements of the invention and one or both may be omitted. Embodiments of the invention provide a Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap having a first 5 and second closed hand loop connected by a crossover connection, wherein the second closed hand loop is inverted with respect to the first closed hand loop.

Claims

1. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap comprising a length of material having a first end edge region defining a first end edge, a second end edge region defining a second end edge, a first side edge extending from said first end edge to said second end edge and a second side edge extending from said first end edge to said second end edge and spaced apart from the said first side edge,wherein said length of material has a first major surface defined by said first end edge, said second end edge and said first and second side edges and a second major surface defined by said first end edge, said second end edge and said first and second side edges, said first and second major surfaces facing in opposite directions,wherein parts of said length of material are joined to form a continuous loop that is configured to define a first closed hand loop and a second closed hand loop,wherein said first and second closed hand loops have respective inner ends disposed adjacent one another and respective outer ends that are spaced apart and form opposite ends of the Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap, andwherein at said outer end of said first closed hand loop said first major surface forms an inner face of the first closed hand loop and at said outer end of said second closed hand loop said first major surface forms an outer face of said second closed hand loop.

2. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 1, wherein said parts that are joined comprise said first end edge region and second end edge region.

3. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 2, wherein said first end edge region and said second end edge region are disposed in overlying relationship with said second major surface at said second end edge region facing said first major surface at said first end edge region.

4. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein said first and second end edge regions are disposed on said second major surface at a position intermediate said first and second end edges, whereby said joined parts form a threelayered joint.

5. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 4, wherein said first major surface at said first end edge region and said first major surface at said second end region face said second major surface at said position intermediate said first and second end edges.

6. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein said parts that are joined are joined together by stitching.

7. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at said outer end of said first closed hand loop said first major surface is provided with first padding and at said outer end of said second closed hand loop said second major surface is provided with second padding.

8. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 7, wherein: said length of material comprises a base weave comprising first threading extending in a first direction between said first and second end edges and second threading woven in a second direction that is transverse to said first direction, said first and second threading each having a hardness and a tensile strength,a plurality of filaments that extend in said first direction and have at least one of a filament hardness and filament tensile strength that exceeds the hardness and tensile strength of said first and second threading, andsaid first padding comprises third threading at least partially covering said first major surface and having a hardness that is less than said filament hardness and said second padding comprises fourth threading at least partially covering said second major surface and having a hardness less than said filament hardness.

9. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 8, wherein said first padding protrudes from said first major surface but does not protrude from said second major surface and said second padding protrudes from said second major surface but does not protrude from said first major surface.

10. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 8 or 9, wherein at least one of said third and fourth threading extends in said first direction.

11. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 8, 9 or 10, further comprising protective edging extending along said first and second side edges, said protective edging comprising fifth threading extending along said first and second side edges so as to at least partially cover said base weave at said first and second side edges.

12. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 11, wherein said fifth threading has a hardness that is less than said filament hardness.

13. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein said third, fourth and fifth threading are made from the same material.

14. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one claims 8 to 13, wherein said filaments have a diameter not greater than 2.0 mm.

15. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein said filaments comprise aramid filaments.

16. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein said first threading comprises threads having a first diameter, said second threading comprises threads having a second diameter and said third and fourth threading comprises threads having a third diameter that is greater than said first and second diameters.

17. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in any one of claims, wherein said third threading is configured such that said first padding comprises a plurality of pads disposed on said first major surface, each said pad comprising a plurality of threads disposed side-by-side.

18. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 11, wherein said pads are configured to define a plurality of rows of pads that extend in said first direction.

19. A Figure 8 weightlifting wrist strap as claimed in claim 18, wherein said rows of pads are configured such that the respective pads of each said row are offset in said first direction with respect to the pads of the adjacent row or rows.

20. A Figure 8 weightlifting strap as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first closed hand loop has an entrance side and an exit side and said entrance side is narrower than said exit side.

521. A Figure 8 weightlifting strap as claimed in claim 20, wherein said entrance side is defined by said first side edge and said exit side is defined by said second side edge.

22. A Figure 8 weightlifting strap as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein said second 10 closed hand loop has an entrance side and an exit side.

23. A Figure 8 weightlifting strap as claimed in claim 22, wherein said second closed hand loop entrance side is defined by said second side edge and said second closed hand loop exit side is defined by said first side edge.1521

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