Thread: Lifting Belts???

It should sit in a dark corner at the back of your closet. Heh.

In general, you shouldn't use a lifting belt. Turn your midsection into a slab of muscle so thick and strong that you don't need a lifting belt. The only time I would suggest using it is during maximum attempts; personally, I don't even belt up then. Otherwise, you should develop your core strength by not using one during compound lifts.

Honestly, I don't even know the perfect spot to wear the belt, I have never really used them. I imagine the bottom of the belt should be at your waist line so that the belt supports your lower back, but let someone with more experience support or refute this claim before you go along with my advice.

Originally Posted by CowPimp

It should sit in a dark corner at the back of your closet.

Good answer.

I agree. I have been lifting for about 17 years, and I've never used a belt. I've also never injured my back in the weightroom.

Ive been 9 years on and off. never had one, never hurt my back!

All it really does is cause you to rely on it, thus weakening your muscles. If you want a strong foundation, achieve it without help.

I use my belt whenever I go below 4 reps in bench, military, and squat. Mine is 6inch wide leather belt, I pull it as tight as I can when I'm in position and the buckle covers my belly button.

Lifting Belt = Crutch

Well shit i have one and make good use out of it. I ended up drilling a couple of holes in it and added to some fasteners to it. I now use it for hanging weights off off it when doing weighted bar dips. I also use it when doing heavy deads. well i don't consider myself a he man and would rather take precautions at my age of 53. So i use mine and i'll be the pussy here and say I like mine when I think it's a good time to strap it on.

Maybe you can stregthen the back, but the first time you end up lifting something real heavy and find yourself with a hernia, then it's my time to laugh.

(P)LENTY (T)OUGH

Agree... single reps max lifts require a belt

Wearing it as part of your workout uniform = not required

Wearing one that says "NIKE" or "REEBOK" or one that has any kind
of PUMP MECHANISM in it, or any other gimmik = GAY

I disagree. If you can't lift that weight without injuring yourself, then you can't lift it. If that means doing less for a max because you aren't wearing a belt, so be it.

In the cases of previous injuries and age, IMO it's acceptable to use a belt to avoid further injury.

I wear one for my last 2 sets of squats and on certain exercises on back day.

It should sit between your bottom rib and your hip bone.

I have a tendency of pulling my back out so I like the added insurance. Keeps my lower back nice and warm.