The Best Strength Training Accessories You’ve Never Heard Of (And Why We Swear By Them at CGPT)

The Best Strength Training Accessories You’ve Never Heard Of (And Why We Swear By Them at CGPT)

 

If you’ve ever stepped into a big-box gym and felt overwhelmed by the sea of machines, cables, and sweaty benches, you’re not alone. But at CGPT, we’ve designed a strength training experience that’s focused, personalised, and incredibly effective - right down to the tools we use.

 

While most people are familiar with barbells, dumbbells and resistance bands, it’s often the lesser-known accessories that make the biggest difference. These aren’t gimmicks. These are evidence-based tools that, when combined with expert guidance, can help you get stronger, lift more safely, and see results faster.

 

So what are these underrated strength training heroes? And why do we use them with our clients every single day?

 

Let’s dive in.

 

1. Wrist Wraps & Wrist Straps

 

Let’s start with the two things that get forgotten until they start hurting: your wrists.

 

Wrist wraps offer support during pressing movements like bench press, overhead presses, and even certain squat variations. They help keep the wrist in a neutral, stable position - especially important if you’re lifting heavier loads or dealing with mobility limitations. Wrist wraps don’t make you weaker - they give your joints the backup they need to perform at their best.

 

Wrist straps, on the other hand, are ideal for pulling exercises - think heavy rows, deadlifts, or assisted pull-ups. They’re designed to reduce grip fatigue, allowing you to focus on the target muscles (like your lats or hamstrings) instead of worrying about your hands giving out first.

 

Many of our clients come to us after years of avoiding certain exercises due to discomfort or injury risk. These small but mighty accessories - combined with our coaching - often unlock whole new movements they never thought they could do safely.

 

2. Fractional Plates

 

Fractional plates are the 0.25kg, 0.5kg, and 1kg metal discs that look almost too small to matter until you realise they’re the secret to long-term progression.

 

The average gym goer is stuck in a pattern of jumping from 5kg to 7.5kg, or 10kg to 12.5kg, which can sometimes be too large of a leap - especially for beginners or those coming back from injury.

 

With fractional plates, we can increase load more gradually, which keeps clients progressing consistently and reduces the risk of plateaus or overload.

 

This level of precision is why CGPT programs are so effective. We don’t just guess or go by feel - we plan and track every kilo, every rep, and every phase of your training.

 

3. Lifting Wedges

 

Tight calves? Limited ankle mobility? Struggle to squat to depth without your heels lifting off the floor?

 

Enter the lifting wedge.

 

These simple rubber wedges - placed under your heels - instantly change your squat mechanics by elevating your heel and increasing your ankle range of motion. This means:

 

·       Better depth in squats

·       Improved posture and positioning

·       Less strain on knees and lower back

 

We often introduce these wedges during early training blocks with new clients to help build confidence and improve form especially if they’ve been avoiding squats due to discomfort.

 

Over time, as mobility improves, we may phase them out. But for many, they become a permanent part of their lifting toolkit.

 

4. Resistance Bands (The Right Way)

 

Yes, everyone has seen a resistance band but not everyone is using them to their full potential.

 

At CGPT, we don’t just hand you a band and tell you to do a few bicep curls. We integrate bands strategically to:

 

·       Add resistance to bodyweight movements

·       Create variable tension for exercises like push-ups or squats

·       Assist with pull-ups as you build strength

·       Improve joint control and stability during warm-ups or rehab

 

Our trainers know exactly how to dose and progress band work, making it far more effective than the YouTube workout you tried at home during lockdown.

 

5. Slant Boards

 

These flat, angled boards are used to train with an elevated heel or toe position and can be a game-changer for clients with joint issues or mobility limitations.

 

We use slant boards for:


·       Knee rehab: They allow for controlled quad-focused movements with reduced knee strain.

·       Calf strengthening: Perfect for controlled heel raises.

·       Ankle mobility: Encouraging proper alignment and joint loading during lower-body exercises.

 

They’re especially useful for clients managing patellofemoral pain or coming back from meniscus injuries. Think of them as a form meets function upgrade.

 

Why These Tools Give CGPT Clients a Real Edge

 

If you’ve ever wondered why training at CGPT gets better results than training on your own at a commercial gym, this is part of the reason.

 

Most commercial gyms leave you to your own devices. You might pick up a few cues from a YouTube video or copy what someone else is doing nearby but there’s no real strategy, no feedback, and no personalisation.

 

At CGPT, your trainer knows your injury history, your goals, your mobility limitations, and your current training block. And they know exactly how to use these tools to help you progress safely and confidently.

 

This is pro-level training without the ego, along with these accessories, help us bridge the gap between physiotherapy and performance.

 

How We Use These Accessories in Real Life Training

 

To give you a feel for how some of our trainers use these tools in everyday sessions, here are a few examples from our team:

 

·       Tim uses fractional plates with his clients returning from injury so they can rebuild strength without overreaching.

·       Sophie incorporates slant boards and wedges in her programming for postpartum clients needing controlled lower-body loading.

·       Laurence loves resistance bands to activate key muscles during warm-ups especially for those with desk jobs and tight hips.

·       Jon often uses wrist straps for clients wanting to focus on heavy rows and Romanian deadlifts without grip limitations.

·       James brings out wrist wraps during advanced pressing phases where joint support makes a huge difference in form and output.

·       Adam tailors accessory use based on client feedback, always adapting the program to suit their weekly needs and lifestyle.

 

This isn’t cookie-cutter programming. It’s tailored strength coaching built on experience, science, and your goals.

 

Ready to Train Smarter, Not Just Harder?

 

Whether you're new to lifting or have been training for years, using the right tools under the guidance of the right coach can fast-track your results and protect your body for the long haul.

 

At CGPT, we’ve built a space that’s focused on your progress. We invest in the accessories that matter (so you don’t have to) and we teach you how to use them properly. You won’t find gimmicks here just proven, practical tools used by a team of highly qualified personal trainers who genuinely care.

 

Want to experience the CGPT difference?

 

Come in for a consult. Let’s get started with a movement screen, set some goals, and see what the right tools (and the right trainer) can help you achieve.

 

Check out our website: www.chrisgympt.com

Email Andrea to book your first session: andrea@chrisgympt.com

 

 

Bibliography

 

Behm, D.G., Drinkwater, E.J., Willardson, J.M. & Cowley, P.M., 2010. The use of instability to train the core musculature. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 35(1), pp.91–108. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1139/H09-127

 

Comfort, P., Allen, M., Graham-Smith, P. & Matthews, M.J., 2011. Kinetic comparisons during variations of the power clean. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 25(12), pp.3269–3273. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e318212dda3

 

Cormie, P., McGuigan, M.R. & Newton, R.U., 2011. Developing maximal neuromuscular power: Part 1 – Biological basis of maximal power production. Sports Medicine, 41(1), pp.17–38. Available from: https://doi.org/10.2165/11537690-000000000-00000

 

Schoenfeld, B.J., 2010. The mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to resistance training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 24(10), pp.2857–2872. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e840f3

 

Wernbom, M., Augustsson, J. & Thomeé, R., 2007. The influence of frequency, intensity, volume and mode of strength training on whole muscle cross-sectional area in humans. Sports Medicine, 37(3), pp.225–264. Available from: https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200737030-00004

 

Strong Starts Here: How CGPT Helps Women Prepare for Pregnancy with Confidence

July 30, 2025
Strong Starts Here: How CGPT Helps Women Prepare for Pregnancy with Confidence Preparing your body for pregnancy is about more than nutrition and timing - it’s about building the strength, stability, and energy to support a growing body and an evolving life. At CGPT in Hawthorn, we help women at every stage of the fertility journey feel physically prepared, confident, and strong. Whether you’re planning to conceive soon or simply want to create a healthier foundation for the future, our private gym and experienced trainers offer the guidance and support you need to train safely and effectively. Why Strength Training Before Pregnancy is Important Pregnancy is one of the most physically demanding experiences the body can go through. The right preparation makes a world of difference. Research from the University of Queensland (Davenport et al., 2019) found that women who entered pregnancy with better strength and conditioning experienced fewer musculoskeletal issues, improved energy, and faster postpartum recovery. Strength training before conception isn’t about pushing limits - it’s about developing a balanced, stable body capable of handling change. By strengthening the core, glutes, and back, you’re giving yourself the support system needed for pregnancy and beyond. At CGPT, our focus is on functional movement - training that improves how you feel and move in everyday life. We design each program around your current fitness level, goals, and comfort, ensuring you’re always working within safe and sustainable boundaries. A Private and Supportive Environment CGPT isn’t a typical big box gym. Our private gym in Hawthorn provides a calm, welcoming space free from distractions and crowds. Every client trains in a one-on-one or small private setting, giving you the confidence to focus fully on your body and your goals. We work with women of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels - from those just beginning their fitness journey to those with established training experience. Our environment is inclusive, respectful, and designed to make every session feel comfortable and achievable. For women preparing for pregnancy, that privacy and personalisation make all the difference. You’ll never be left wondering if you’re doing the right exercise or pushing too hard - every session is guided, safe, and structured for your unique stage of life. Expert Trainers Who Understand Women’s Health The CGPT trainer team brings a wealth of experience in strength training, movement correction, and women’s health. Each program is evidence-based, drawing from current research on hormonal health, pelvic stability, and injury prevention. Our trainers collaborate closely with clients to help them: · Build the core and glute strength that supports a growing belly. · Improve posture and balance for long-term comfort. · Reduce back and hip tension before it becomes an issue. · Feel more energised and confident leading into pregnancy. We also understand the emotional and mental side of the process. Pre-pregnancy can be a hopeful but uncertain time - training at CGPT offers a sense of routine, calm, and empowerment that supports not just your body but your overall wellbeing. Safe, Smart, and Science-Based Strength training before pregnancy is safe and highly beneficial when done correctly. Studies from Monash University (Smith et al., 2020) and the Australian Institute of Sport (2022) confirm that resistance training supports hormonal balance, improves bone density, and reduces chronic inflammation - all factors linked to reproductive health. Our approach focuses on progression, not perfection. You’ll build strength gradually, develop stability through movement, and feel your confidence grow with each session. And because our programs are tailored around you, we can easily adapt your training as your needs evolve - before, during, or after pregnancy. Why Women Choose CGPT Women choose CGPT because it’s a space where they feel seen, supported, and genuinely cared for. Every detail of the experience - from the welcoming environment to the one-on-one coaching - is designed to help you feel empowered in your own skin. Here’s what sets us apart: · Private setting: No crowds, no waiting, no distractions. · Personalised programs: Tailored specifically to your stage of life and fitness level. · Experienced trainers: Specialists in strength training, pre- and post-natal care, and safe exercise progression. · Inclusive culture: We welcome women of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Yes, it’s about getting stronger but it’s also about feeling genuinely ready for whatever comes next. Begin Your Journey with Confidence If you’re thinking about starting a family soon, now is the perfect time to invest in your strength. Training at CGPT gives you the tools to support your body through pregnancy, recovery, and motherhood with confidence. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way - with knowledge, compassion, and a focus on long-term health. Email Andrea today at andrea@chrisgympt.com to start your pre-pregnancy strength program. Because when it comes to preparing for pregnancy, building strength is one of the most powerful things you can do - for yourself, and for the life you’re creating.

Countdown to ‘I Do’: Your Month-by-Month Strength Training Plan for the Big Day

July 21, 2025
Countdown to ‘I Do’: Your Month-by-Month Strength Training Plan for the Big Day If you’re counting down to your wedding, you already know the to-do list is endless - dress fittings, venue visits, catering tastings, and seating charts. With so much to organise, it’s easy to let your own health and fitness take a back seat. But the truth is, feeling strong, confident, and energised on your wedding day is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Strength training is more than just “getting in shape.” It supports posture, helps manage stress, boosts confidence, and gives you the stamina to enjoy every moment - from the walk down the aisle to the last dance at the reception. At CGPT in Hawthorn, we’ve designed a framework that works seamlessly alongside wedding prep, with a private and personalised approach to training that takes the stress out of fitness. Here’s a simple month-by-month guide to help you move toward your big day with strength and confidence. Six Months Out: Build Your Base Six months gives you a generous runway to set strong foundations. This is the time to focus on overall strength, energy, and consistency. Building a solid base now means your body adapts gradually, reducing the risk of injury or burnout later. Think of this stage as creating the “frame” for everything to follow. A focus on big-picture strength gives you the power to carry through the months ahead, whether your goals are building lean muscle, improving posture, or simply feeling more energised. Couples training together at this stage can follow the same rhythm while working toward individual goals, even if fitness levels differ. Three Months Out: Refine and Define With 12 weeks to go, most of the groundwork is in place - now it’s about refining. This stage is perfect for dialling in body composition and highlighting the results of your training. Improved strength and energy levels can also help balance the demands of wedding planning, where stress can easily creep in. For couples, this can be a fun stage to share workouts side by side. Even if one partner wants to lean into aesthetics and the other prefers performance, training together keeps motivation high and makes fitness part of the wedding journey. One Month Out: Posture, Core, and Confidence The last few weeks before your wedding are about polishing the details - much like your final dress fitting or venue walk-through. Posture work, core stability, and mobility are key focuses here. The goal is to stand tall, move with ease, and feel confident in every photo. Strength training also supports your mental health in this stage. Taking an hour for yourself in a private, distraction-free gym like CGPT provides a much-needed break from the endless checklist of wedding tasks. Wedding Week: Stay Calm, Stay Strong The week of your wedding isn’t the time to push harder or start something new. Instead, it’s about maintaining the energy and strength you’ve built while giving your body the space to look and feel its best. Light, confidence-boosting sessions will help reduce stress without leaving you sore or fatigued. And here’s a bonus tip: shorter, makeup-friendly workouts in the final days mean less chance of puffiness, breakouts, or stress-induced skin flare-ups. You’ll walk into your big day fresh, not frazzled. Why CGPT Is the Perfect Fit for Your Wedding Prep Preparing for a wedding is exciting - but it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why so many couples choose CGPT’s private gym in Hawthorn. Unlike generic gym memberships, CGPT offers: Personalised programs that evolve with your timeline and goals. A private environment free from the distractions of busy gym floors. Supportive coaching that makes training a positive, achievable part of your wedding countdown. Whether you’re training solo or as a couple, CGPT helps you move into married life feeling confident, strong, and energised - ready to enjoy every moment of your celebration. The CGPT Experience: More Than Just a Gym One of the biggest challenges people face when preparing for a wedding is finding the right training environment. A crowded commercial gym can feel intimidating, time-wasting, or simply uninspiring. At CGPT, we do things differently. Our private gym in Hawthorn is purpose-built for focus and results. You’ll never have to wait for equipment, compete with blaring music, or feel self-conscious about who’s watching. Instead, every session takes place in a calm, supportive setting where your time is valued and your progress is our priority. We’re proud to welcome clients of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re brand new to strength training or you’ve been active for years, our programs are tailored to your ability and goals. It’s not about fitting into a mould - it’s about creating the right path for you. Our Trainers: Knowledgeable, Supportive, and Experienced At the heart of CGPT is our team of dedicated trainers. Each coach brings years of expertise in strength training, injury management, and personalised programming, ensuring your workouts are safe, effective, and enjoyable. What makes our trainers different is their approach: Supportive and encouraging - we meet you where you’re at and help you progress step by step. Highly experienced - with backgrounds spanning physiotherapy, athletic development, and personal training, our knowledge runs deep. Genuinely invested in you - we take the time to understand your lifestyle, energy, and priorities, so training always feels achievable and relevant. Couples love training at CGPT because the atmosphere is welcoming, inclusive, and motivating. It’s the kind of place where you’ll feel comfortable whether you’re preparing for your wedding, building long-term strength, or simply wanting to feel healthier in daily life. Final Thoughts Your wedding day should be one of the most joyful experiences of your life - and that joy is amplified when you feel strong, confident, and comfortable in your own skin. By starting early and following a month-by-month approach, strength training becomes a supportive part of the wedding journey, not an added stress. At CGPT, we’ll help you go beyond “looking good for the big day.” We’ll help you build the strength, energy, and confidence to enjoy every step of the countdown - and every step down the aisle. Email Andrea today at andrea@chrisgympt.com to begin your wedding-ready program. Because lifelong strength begins before you say “I do.”

Beyond the Scale: How Strength Training Protects Your Muscle, Metabolism, and Mind on GLP-1 Medications

July 12, 2025
Beyond the Scale: How Strength Training Protects Your Muscle, Metabolism, and Mind on GLP-1 Medications If you’ve read our blog on Strength Training and GLP-1 Medications: A Powerful Combo for Weight Loss Success , you already know that pairing exercise with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can deliver life-changing results. But long-term success with GLP-1s isn’t just about the number on the scales. Without a plan to safeguard your strength and energy, weight loss can sometimes come at the expense of muscle, metabolism, and overall wellbeing. At CGPT in Hawthorn, we support clients using GLP-1s with personalised programs designed to protect muscle, maintain energy, and build resilience. Our private environment provides the expertise and accountability that generic gyms can’t, helping you stay strong during and beyond your weight loss journey. Why Maintaining Muscle is Important on GLP-1s GLP-1s work by suppressing appetite and reducing food intake, which makes weight loss possible even when other strategies have failed. However, along with fat loss, some lean muscle can be lost too. Research suggests up to a third of total weight lost may come from lean tissue if no protective steps are taken (Wilding et al. 2021). Losing muscle isn’t just about strength in the gym: Metabolism slows - less muscle means fewer calories burned at rest (Rosenbaum & Leibel 2010). Bone health suffers - strong muscles stimulate stronger bones, protecting against osteoporosis (Kohrt et al. 2004). Everyday function declines - from climbing stairs to enjoying active holidays, muscle is what powers daily life. Energy, Focus and the Fatigue Factor Many GLP-1 users notice dips in energy, especially when their calorie intake is significantly reduced. It’s tempting to skip workouts when you’re feeling flat - but movement often does the opposite of what you expect. Strength training has been shown to: · Improve the body’s ability to produce and use energy efficiently (Holloszy 2008). · Enhance blood sugar management and reduce brain fog (Ivy 1997). · Lift mood, improve focus, and counteract fatigue (Gordon et al. 2017). In other words, the right training doesn’t just burn energy - it creates it. Building for the Future Some people use GLP-1s short term, while others continue long term as part of chronic weight management (Davies et al. 2021). Regardless of the timeframe, strength training is your insurance policy for the future. Protecting and building muscle now means: · A stronger metabolism, so your body continues burning more energy every day. · A buffer against rebound weight gain if medication use changes. · Greater freedom to enjoy the things you love - travel, sport, or simply keeping up with friends and family. Why CGPT Is the Right Partner GLP-1 users need more than a one-size-fits-all gym membership. At CGPT, our trainers understand the unique challenges that come with rapid weight loss and reduced energy intake. We provide: Tailored programs that evolve with you, whether you’re starting your GLP-1 journey or looking ahead. A private environment free from the distractions and crowds of commercial gyms. Supportive coaching that balances challenge with care, ensuring you feel safe and capable every step of the way. Our goal isn’t just to help you lose weight - it’s to help you keep your strength, confidence, and quality of life for years to come. Final Thoughts: Beyond the Scale GLP-1 medications are powerful tools for weight loss. But the real measure of success goes beyond the number you see on the scales. It’s found in the muscle you protect, the energy you regain, and the confidence you build. At CGPT, we’re here to make sure your weight loss journey doesn’t come at the cost of your long-term health. Email Andrea today at andrea@chrisgympt.com to start a program tailored to your GLP-1 journey. Because weight loss may begin with medication, but lifelong health is built with strength. References · Davies, M, et al. 2021, Semaglutide for weight management: a clinical review, Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 23(4), pp. 879-891. · Gordon, BR, et al. 2017, Resistance exercise training improves depressive symptoms in adults: a meta-analysis, JAMA Psychiatry, 75(6), pp. 566-576. · Holloszy, JO 2008, Regulation by exercise of skeletal muscle content of mitochondria and GLUT4, Journal of Physiology, 586(1), pp. 1-6. · Ivy, JL 1997, Role of exercise training in the prevention and treatment of insulin resistance and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, Sports Medicine, 24(5), pp. 321-336. · Kohrt, WM, et al. 2004, Physical activity and bone health in older men and women, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 36(11), pp. 1985-1996. · Rosenbaum, M & Leibel, RL 2010, Adaptive thermogenesis in humans, International Journal of Obesity, 34(S1), S47-S55. · Wilding, JPH, et al. 2021, Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity, The New England Journal of Medicine, 384, pp. 989-1002.