Muscle Gain Forum

Light-hearted one. What do you actually train in? Specifically shoes - I see flat shoes, lifters, running shoes, barefoot. Does it matter, and what's everyone's go-to gym kit? My trainers feel wrong under heavy squats.

Shoes genuinely matter for lifting. Flat, hard soles (Chucks, flat trainers, or proper lifting shoes) for squats and deadlifts - running shoes have a soft compressible heel that makes you unstable under load. That 'wrong' feeling under squats is exactly that.

So my squishy running shoes are the problem, not me.

Largely yes. A soft heel lets your foot roll and your knee wander. Flat and firm gives you a stable base instantly.

Lifting shoes with a raised heel help if you squat high-bar or have stiff ankles - more upright, easier depth. Flats/Chucks are great for deadlifts (closer to the floor) and general work. Many of us own both and switch by lift.

For clothes, honestly just comfortable and lets you move - nothing restrictive. I train in cheap shorts and a tee. The only real 'gear' worth it is decent shoes and maybe a belt for heavy work. The rest is personal preference.

Glad it's not just me who found running shoes weird under the bar. Grabbing some flat shoes. Comfortable clothes and the right shoes, skip the rest. Thanks.

Flats for deadlifts, maybe lifters for squats, comfy clothes otherwise. Sorted. Cheers all, my squats thank you in advance.