When you start CrossFit or functional fitness, it might seem like everyone around you has a whole gym store in their bag.

Grips.
Jump ropes.
Chalk.
Tape.
Wrist wraps.
Knee sleeves.

The list can be long.

But the truth is, you don't need everything at once. Let's go through what's actually useful – and what can wait.

1. Jump Ropes

A jump rope is perhaps the most used piece of equipment in functional fitness.

You will often encounter exercises such as:

  • single unders

  • double unders

  • jump rope intervals

A good speed rope makes these exercises much easier.

👉 See our jump ropes

2. Grips

If you train on the rig, your hands will quickly feel it.

Pull-ups, toes-to-bar, and muscle-ups can cause both tears and tired hands. Grips protect the skin and provide better grip.

👉 See our grips for rig training

3. Chalk

When your hands get sweaty, your grip can quickly disappear. A little chalk can make a big difference in exercises like:

  • Olympic lifts

  • Kettlebells
  • pull-ups

  • farmer’s carry

👉 See chalk for training

4. Wrist Wraps

Many exercises in functional fitness involve pressing weights overhead.

For example:

  • thrusters

  • push press

  • Snatch

Wrist wraps can provide extra support for your wrists.

👉 See wrist wraps

5. Knee Sleeves

If you do a lot of squats or walking lunges, knee sleeves can provide both support and comfort.

They are particularly popular in workouts with:

  • squats

  • lunges

  • wall balls

👉 See knee sleeves

What should you buy first?

If you're new to the sport, many people start with:

1️⃣ jump rope
2️⃣ grips
3️⃣ chalk

This is equipment you will use in many, many workouts.

You can buy the rest as you go.

In short

You don't need a whole gym store in your bag.

But a few small things can make training more comfortable, more effective, and a little more fun.

Start simple.

The rest will come eventually.

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