by Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, CPT, CSN
Lifting belts (also called weight belts) are a standard sight in gyms. They’re usually crafted from thick leather-based, measure 4 to 6 inches in width, and are secured with a metallic buckle across the waist.
Distinguishing them from corset-style again braces is essential, as they serve completely different functions. With numerous kinds, thicknesses, and supplies accessible, deciding on the appropriate lifting belt is determined by your particular coaching targets and actions. Selecting the improper kind can result in discomfort or hinder efficiency.
Whereas some folks put on them simply to look cool, they really serve a function for many who practice laborious and with heavy weights.
On this article, we are going to dive deeper into several types of lifting belts, outlining their execs, cons, and excellent customers that can assist you make an knowledgeable selection if that is one thing you’re seeking to spend money on.
Disclaimer: This text is for informational functions solely and isn’t meant to deal with or diagnose any situation. It is suggested that you just converse along with your physician earlier than participating in any train program.
What Does a Lifting Belt Do?
Lifting belts are essential in enhancing core stability throughout heavy lifts by growing intra-abdominal stress, making a inflexible brace for muscle tissue to work towards. This stabilizes the core, sustaining a impartial backbone and decreasing the danger of decrease again hyperextension or rounding — a standard explanation for lifting accidents.
Whereas a weightlifting belt helps preserve a stronger and safer torso, it’s not an alternative to correct approach or a assure towards accidents. It ought to complement the proper type, not exchange it. Studying to brace the core accurately is vital for protected and efficient power coaching.
Totally different Forms of Lifting Belts
Folks typically select lifting belts tailor-made to their particular fitness center actions. Under are a few of the commonest lifting belts available on the market.
1. Leisure lifting belts
These belts are well-suited for normal health fans and lifters looking for basic assist. Providing ease of use, they usually function a single-prong buckle or Velcro for fast fastening. Offering a cosy and cozy match, they’re versatile sufficient for numerous workout routines.
Nonetheless, they might lack the rigidity and specificity required for sure sports activities and superior actions. Whereas simple to make use of and appropriate for a broad vary of workout routines, they won’t provide ample assist for extremely superior lifters or particular actions.
Selecting a belt primarily based on particular person wants is essential, particularly for aggressive lifters or these requiring assist for particular workout routines.
2. Single-prong and double-prong belt
The one-prong belt, generally constituted of leather-based or sturdy artificial supplies, is a well-liked and inexpensive selection. Its slim and contoured design appeals to lifters preferring a much less cumbersome possibility.
With just one prong, it provides fast and simple removing. Although high-quality single-prong belts are safe when worn accurately, some lifters could go for a double-prong for added reassurance. The usage of fewer supplies contributes to its affordability, making it a sensible possibility.
Double-prong belts carefully resemble single-prong ones, with the important thing distinction being the presence of two prongs as a substitute of 1. Whereas barely tougher to lock and loosen, an important level (although not universally confirmed) is that the 2 prongs distribute stress extra evenly, probably decreasing the probability of belt failure. This perception has contributed to their recognition amongst lifters who prioritize added safety throughout heavy lifts.
3. CrossFit belts
The design of this lifting belt varies primarily based on the lifter’s preferences, usually prioritizing flexibility, consolation, and rigidity. The belt is good for CrossFit fans, permitting for fast on-and-off transitions between belted and non-belted actions. It’s constituted of versatile nylon and includes a fastening mechanism, usually utilizing Velcro or a ratchet system, enabling lifters to customise the match swiftly for various actions.
The flexibleness of the fabric accommodates a variety of motions, however it might not present excessive rigidity for maximal lifts like deadlifts and squats. Some warning arises with the usage of Velcro, which can come undone, specializing in the significance of a twin Velcro and ratchet-style belt for safety.
4. Olympic weightlifting belts
Olympic weightlifting belts, accessible in leather-based or nylon, cater to completely different lifter preferences. Whereas leather-based provides rigidity, some go for nylon’s flexibility, particularly in deep cleans and snatches.
That includes a slight taper for unrestricted squatting, these belts align with competitors requirements like these by USA Weightlifting (USAW) and the Worldwide Weightlifting Federation (IWF). Fastening with a smaller prong-style buckle or a ratchet and Velcro system, they prioritize adjustability and keep inconspicuous throughout dynamic actions.
Placing a stability between flexibility and rigidity, these lifting belts swimsuit lifters needing assist with out disrupting motion. Nonetheless, correct respiratory is essential with nylon’s much less inflexible construction, and untapered leather-based belts could trigger discomfort throughout some lifts.
5. Pull-up, dip, and belt squat belts
Whereas not precisely one thing you’d put on to offer assist throughout lifts, the sort of belt is nice for constructing power and measurement. It’s excellent for weighted pull-ups and dips, as these specialised belts function a padded, tapered design for consolation and a safe match. They’re geared up with a sturdy metal chain and permit substantial weight additions, selling development in body weight workout routines.
Very best for particular actions, these belts lack again or torso assist. Their form-fitting design ensures consolation whereas accommodating added weight, making them a beneficial software for focused power enhancement in pull-ups, dips, and belt squats.
