A weight lifting belt can simply be described as a belt used during weight lifting to enhance intra-abdominal pressure or the pressure in the abdomen, particularly during strenuous or heavy lifting of weights.
The increased pressure in the abdomen creates a firm core, stabilizes the spine and helps improve your maximum strength.
Why is A Weight Lifting Belt Important?
Majority of individuals believe that apart from offering support to the back, weight lifting or fitness belt also help in the prevention of injuries.
That is generally accurate, however, a deeper understanding of how weighted belts work will change how this equipment is used by most people.
It is surprising that even certain weighted belt manufactures do not really have an understanding of how the belt is meant to work!
This is displayed when they produce belts that have a wider back compared to the front.
Remember, the primary function of a weight belt is to improve support from the front through enhancing abdominal pressure.
Simply put, a weighted belt makes available a strong wall for the abs to push against. This increases force with restricted pressure means enhanced anterior spine pressure, which assists in stabilizing it.
This leaves you with a firmer torso with improved force transmission from your hips to the bar, and a more steady foundation for overhead lifting.
The breadth at the belt’s back has no impact on the function of the belt, as most individuals think.
Unique Benefits of Weight Belt for Strength or Bodybuilding
- Weight lifting belts stabilize and minimize strain on the user’s spine
According to various studies, an increase of up to 40% of the intra-abdominal pressure was observed when wearing a weight belt when weight lifting.
One of the studies reported a 50% reduction of the compression of intervertebral discs when wearing this belt in the process of weight lifting.
Enhancing intra-abdominal pressure can be compared to the inflation of a balloon inside one’s abdominal cavity.
The increased intra-abdominal pressure pushes against the spine to offer support to it from the body’s inside, whereas the abdominal wall’s and lower back’s muscles push support the spine from the outside.
Both the outside and inside pressures offer support to the spine and alleviate the stress that it receives during heavy and strenuous weight lifting.
This is exactly how weight belts protect the back against injuries when lifting.
It is not because of the belt providing the support, but instead because of how the body responds to the belt that provides spinal support.
- They create improved body biomechanics
According to research, lifting boxes with a lifting belt on minimizes the degree of spinal flexion (the spines’ forward bending), extension (the spine’s back bending), and lateral flexion (the spine’s side to side bending), but enhances the extent of flexion at both the knees and hips.
In short, a weight belt compels more lifting with the legs that with the back, which is exactly the biomechanical posture you need to utilize when lifting weights from the floor.
In addition, these are the biomechanics that you should apply during squats or deadlifts involving a barbell.
- Weight belts produce improved performance
Is wearing a lifting belt going to enhance your strength, power, or perhaps even the growth of your muscles? Yes, it is!
Various studies show that using a belt helps to enhance all the above (strength, power, and muscle growth), for the lower body workouts such as squats.
Different Categories of Weightlifting Belt
- Strength training belt
If you enjoy experimenting with different types of strength training, there is a lifting belt for you!
Certain manufactures produce belts that will get you ready for whichever kind of weight lifting you wish to do.
Dip belt
This is basically an adjustable belt featuring an attachment which holds weights.
This could be a kettle bell, dumbbell, barbell, or even a weight plate.
Majority of these belts include a ‘tail’ where the weights can be attached to.
These weights then hang between your legs and many individuals perform pull-ups and dips using these belts.
- Deadlift and squat belt
If you are indeed serious about getting stronger through lofting heavier weights, then simply include a weight belt in your workout.
And if you often squat or deadlift close to your highest body weight or simply wish to advance, consider trying out a belt.
When a belt is properly used, your squats and/or deadlifts will certainly be improved and the results will speak for themselves.
This means that training with a weight belt is more effective compared to training without one.
| Ready to own that special, custom or unique weightlifting belt? View these top brands on AMAZON Stores! |
Custom Lifting Belts versus Normal Kinds
- Velcro belts
A good example is the Harbinger.
These belts are usually made using synthetic material, and given that it uses Velcro to hold on to the body, there is a restriction to the amount of force that can be applied to it.
The quantity of intra-abdominal pressure generated by them is quite little.
You might get some injury protection from these belts but not a lot of performance boost.
- Powerlifting belts
Most power lifters use belts such as the Inzer Forever Belt mainly because it permits them to squat as well as deadlift heavier weights.
The probable safety advantage is a secondary issue.
Weight belts specifically intended for powerlifting are stiff, heavy duty, and have a uniform width all around.
Given that a huge surface area of the abs comes into contact with this belt, together with the fact that there is a buckle that could be tightened as tight as you wish, makes for a significant amount of intra-abdominal pressure increase.
Increased internal pressure equals more stability which equals heavier weights!
- Traditional or bodybuilding belts
These particular belts are made using leather and normally have a thicker back compared to the front.
They are as thick as the regular belts that you use in holding up your trousers.
They fasten and buckle similar to powerlifting belts but are not as strong as them.
What this implies is that they offer less intra-abdominal pressure compared to powerlifting belts (as a result of the smaller front) but more pressure than Velcro belts (since they can be buckled up very tight).
They are simply a hybrid with regard to what you get from them.
Some Best Weight Lifting Belt Brands
There are dozens of brands you can get both offline and online, but the few showcased below are truly some of the best weight lifting belt brands on the market today.
- Dark iron fitness
Dark Iron Fitness focuses on the production of uniquely designed weight lifting accessories to assist you become more and more focused and effective, and be capable of putting in more effort in your workouts.
Their lifting belts is known leather pro, designed for men and women.
Truly one of the best in the industry, and generally after sought globally for its affordability and strength and durability!
They achieve this by ensuring that all their products are comfortable, durable, and more supportive compared to their competitors.
VIEW more pictures, benefits and how to order on AMAZON here!
- Fire Team Fit
They are small, veteran-run business in Albuquerque that is specialized in the production of high-quality fitness equipment.
It was started to motivate different athletes to reach new and improved levels of fitness.
Their inspiration comes from the fitness side of their service to the Marine Corps.
They believe that strength is obtained from the dedication and discipline to exercise and healthy living.
- Harbinger
Started back in 1988, Harbinger has quickly grown to become one of the top brands for strength trainers and weight lifters globally.
The company started with a ground-breaking wrist-stabilizing glove, which was originally designed to reduce wrist injuries specifically for skateboarders, but later gained popularity among weight lifters.
The company later partnered with Lee Haney, a Mr. Olympia body builder, to pioneer Harbinger as a source of top quality, cautiously designed belts, gloves and other weight lifting and strength training equipment.
Harbinger has since then expanded into important weight lifting equipment such as straps, speed ropes, and wraps.
With advanced designs and exclusive technology, Harbinger continues to produce new, ground-breaking products.
VIEW more pictures, benefits and how to order on AMAZON here
- Valeo
This a popular weight lifting belt amongst many individuals.
It is made using leather that is 6mm thick with a double stitched edging.
The belt features a double pronged buckle and two different loops are connected to ensure that the belt tab is always in place.
The Valeo belt also comes in 6 and 4 inch width versions. One of the most popular is: Valeo VRL4 4″ Padded Leather Contoured Weightlifting Lifting Belt.
They are either padded with suede or waterproof foam, which further widen your options for choice.
VIEW more options, sizes and other accessories of VALEO here
- RDX
RDX is the top British fitness and combat sports brand, dominating not just the European market but other markets as well.
With more than 12 options, you are spoil for choice!
They cater for different sizes, tastes, leather finishing and strength levels.
Some are quite very premium and will stand you out from gym crowd!
With a client base of more than 200 million satisfied customers all over the world, the company is now one of the fastest developing E-commerce founded sports brands worldwide.
They produce premium quality equipment and offer free delivery to most countries as well as good customer service.
Moreover, their equipment are available at pocket-friendly prices.
VIEW all sizes, colors and finishing on their AMAZON page here
- Rogue Ohio Lifting Belts
Any of the Rogue lifting belt models is sure to deliver results.
These are one of the best weight lifting belts available on the market today.
Their belts are strong and durable and do exactly what they are meant to do; offer spinal support.
One of the company's popular belt is: Rogue Fitness 5″ Nylon Weightlifting Belt!
And available on Amazon stores!
They're generally handcrafted for long term use, and specially know for its strength.
VIEW complete details and order on AMAZON stores today!
- Pioneer
Pioneer Fitness Products is a line of premium quality weight lifting belts and other exercise equipment made of leather that was started by General Leathercraft Manufacturing, Inc. back in 1979 in Sidney, Nebraska.
With the increasing awareness of ergonomics and industrial back injuries, the company introduced Pioneer Safety Products, a segment solely committed to the creation of individual back support systems, together with wrist, elbow, and knee wraps as well as anti-fatigue matting.
What is The Number One Weight Lifting / Fitness Belt Purpose?
According to various studies, even though lifting belts have minimal impact on quad or hamstring performance, they have been found to have considerable impact on core activation.
The internal pressure against this fitness belt supports the heavier lifts; increase in maximum capacity increases by 5% to 15%.
Remember, you need to have a firm core in order to lift heavy weights.
Weight Lifting Belts for Men versus Women Belts
Weight lifting belts can be used by both men and women and gender has nothing to do with the way these belts function.
There are no specific belts designed for men or women; either gender can use whichever belt they wish.
How to Wear the Weight Lifting Belt
Weight lifting belts should be worn tighter that you think it should be. Majority of the amateur weight lifters do not wear their belts tight enough.
When wearing the belt, take in a normal breath and then adjust the belt as tight as you can without interfering with your normal breathing.
Where to Buy the Best Weight Lifting Belts?
You can purchase your belt from either online or brick-and-mortar stores such as Walmart.
I, however, recommend getting your belt from Amazon because of the following reasons.
First, Amazon offers great opportunities (discounts, shipping and great customer care) on products that in turn allow you to save money.
Second, you get to place your order right from the convenience of your own home and have delivered to you at your doorstep.
Last but not least, you can be sure that you are purchasing the original thing and not an imitation of the product.
The Best Powerlifting Belt: What Type Should You Get?
Having the knowledge that lifting belts prompts your core and back muscles to tighten up when lifting heavy weights will help you establish the type of belt to wear.
A lot of fitness stores sell belts that have a huge padded strap which covers a small part of the back and thin leather straps for covering the front.
I, however, advise you not to use this type of weight lifting belt.
Why?
These particular belts are designed with the impression that the function of the belt is to directly offer support to your lower back.
It is as if they were designed by individuals who do not really understand the objective of a lifting belt.
That huge padded strap at the back is supposedly meant to serve as a support.
We, however, are aware that instead of supporting the back, weight belts prompt our torsos to contract as much as they possibly can.
Hence, the small at the front and huge at the back design of these belts do not convey uniform feedback to the torso, which might lead to a less firm core.
In addition, the huge back of these lifting belts hinders lumbar extension, which in turn makes it hard to get your lower back to the right position when squatting or deadlifting.
Real Facts to Help You…
An incorrect position of the lower back might lead to ineffective lifting and at times injuries to the lower back.
Bearing that in mind, a good weight lifting belt is one that has a uniform all around it.
There is no ridiculous-looking bigger back.
Lifting belts are generally 4 inches wide.
This works well for most individuals with the average body size.
One downside, however, of these belts (4 inch wide) for those with average torso lengths is that getting into the correct deadlifting posture could be a little uncomfortable given that the belt tends to dig into the ribs.
For that reason, I recommend using a 3 inch belt, as it provides adequate torso feedback during squats is a comfortable even when performing deadlifts.
Three inch lifting belts are also generally more comfortable than 4 inch belts when executing Olympic lifts such as the snatch and clean.
In you have longer legs and shorter torso, then you should definitely go for a 3 inch belt.
Any other belt wider than that is going to be uncomfortable to both your hips and ribs when deadlifting or squatting.
Apart from going for a lifting belt with a uniform width all round, below are other important elements to look for when purchasing the best powerlifting belt.
- All leather weightlifting belt:
A belt made of leather is strong, durable and lasts long.
Most lifting belts available out there are nylon-made, which do not hold up quite as well as leather wightlifting belt or those that are mostly leather-made.
- Thick:
A thick lifting belt offers your core something more to push on.
The maximum belt thickness is about 13mm; that is what to go for!
- Lever or prong buckle:
Most lowly priced weight lifting belts being sold on the market utilize Velcro to hold the belt in position.
There are two issues associated with Velcro:
(1) Velcro is not long-lasting, and,
(2) there is a certain weight limit that has to be observed with Velcro, which when surpassed the Velcro will just give out.
Rather than Velcro, go for a lever weight lifting belt that has a lever closure. Or, prong buckle.
If you choose the latter, go for one with one prong only as they are a lot simpler to wear and take off compared to double-pronged belts.
Lever closure makes wearing and taking off the belt very easy.
The only problem is that it is a hustle to adjust the belt for a tighter fit given that you actually have to unscrew the lever, adjust it, and then finally screw it again.
A weight lifting belt with all the above mentioned features is priced at least 100 dollars.
I know that $100 is a lot of money to spend on belt but such a belt will last you forever!
| Ready to own that special, custom or unique weightlifting belt? View these top brands on AMAZON Stores! |
Conclusion
A weight lifting belt is a must-have for any weight lifter or strength trainer.
It plays a huge role in stabilizing your core and providing the support needed for lifting those heavy weights.
However, choosing the right belt is crucial if you wish to achieve positive results and avoid any injuries.
Always go for a belt that has a uniform width all the way round.
The belt should also be leather-made, thick and includes a lever closure or prong buckle for fastening.
Frequently Asked Questions
QUE: What is the difference between powerlifting and weight lifting belts?
There are certain physical differences between the two.
Weight lifting belts have a uniform width all round with a minimum thickness of 10 mm and are made of premium leather.
They normally feature a lever buckle, single prong or double prong for securing the belt in position.
A powerlifting belt, on the other hand, is generally used at the gym and has a wider padded back and narrow front.
They are created using synthetic material or light leather, have a maximum thickness of 10mm, and are secured using either a Velcro or a double-pronged buckle. However we recommend inzer belt if you desire the absolutely top brand!
QUE: Can I use the squat belt as an amateur?
No, that is not advised.
First concentrate on training to acquire strength and then use the belt later.
QUE: Can I get Rogue lifting belt on Amazon?
YES!
Rogue lifting belt and other sporting and fitness equipment and gears from Rogue brands are all listed on a dedicated Amazon page here!
Or, looking for the lifting belt only? View the image and order on this page!
QUE: What are the pros and cons of weight lifting belts?
Pros
- They enhance the quantity of load that an individual can utilize in compound lifts, particularly in the lower body
- A nice tool for teaching individuals the right posture for deadlifts or squats
- Allows you to compete in sports such as Olympic lifting and powerlifting
Cons
- Could create poor habits for weight lifters and when inappropriately used, weakens the response of core muscles
- Not quite applicable for everyday training as their primary application is powerlifting
QUE: How to put on a weight lifting dip?
Begin by threading the chain through the incorporated ring on the other side of the lifting belt then connect it to the belt to the chain.
The chain is pulled downwards by the weight and this makes the belt to tighten around the waist, making it hard for the belt to slide down past the hips.
QUE: Which fitness belt brand is okay for me?
As we detailed above, any of the top brands and models are 100% fine. You are only limited by your choice and cost.
QUE: Where can I purchase a weighted belt?
You can purchase your belt from either online or brick-and-mortar stores such as Walmart.
I, however, recommend getting your belt from Amazon because of the following reasons.
First, Amazon offers great discounts on some of its products that in turn allow you to save money.
Second, you get to place your order right from the convenience of your own home and have delivered to you at your doorstep.
Last but not least, you can be sure that you are purchasing the original thing and not merely an imitation of the product.
Guide: inzer forever belt review…
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