Weight belt?

FitBeto

Does anyone here lift heavy with a weight belt on? I strained my back and after recovery I want to start wearing one when I lift heavy, but I read that if you use the belt, you could be hindering progress as it makes it "easier". Can this be true? Does anyone else use belts?

Chief_Rocka

If you strained you back it was from bad form, which can happen with or without a belt. I personally use a belt for the heaviest sets on squats and deads. Read more here: http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=108908741&page=1

betoarango

I try to do them without it as i feel it is a crutch. However I had a personal trainer guide me through all the different workouts to make sure I did not get hurt and had proper form. As an added benefit i feel my core getting stronger..

jayche

If you strained you back it was from bad form, which can happen with or without a belt. I personally use a belt for the heaviest sets on squats and deads. Read more here: http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=108908741&page=1

Second this.
A common misconception is that weight belts fix bad form, it doesn't. If you have bad form you will get hurt regardless with or without the weight belt on. Weight belts allow your core to stabilize heavier poundages through an increase in intra-abdominal pressure.

Personally not using weight belts now regularly, I'm considering using them for my 90%+[of 1rm] sets.

FitBeto

Yeah almost positive it was form, trying to beat a 1 rep PB and totally shot the form coming up - I don't want to wear the belt at all times just at the end of my 5x5 (trying to better my 5rm).

wellbert

yes, but only as a reminder to keep solid. it's not really an orthopedic.

testease

I use a belt for pretty much anything over 225lb. Having something to push my belly against allows me to keep my core much tighter then having nothing. Plus they look stylish...

Leadfoot_Lewis

I did a lot of research on belts and decided it's time. I literally just bought one last week and used it for the first time on Sunday. As of now I'm only using it for Deadlifts when I lift @ a weight that's 85% of my 1RM.

It shouldn't hinder your progress, it should help improve it if anything.

Cranktastic

I use a belt for pretty much anything over 225lb. Having something to push my belly against allows me to keep my core much tighter then having nothing. Plus they look stylish...

Still need to order mine.

SanDiegoCasey

As others have said, it is extremely common for people to neglect good form and get a belt instead, this will most assuradly cause injury.. when you get injured wearing a belt the injury is more severe than you not wearing a belt. I had one 20 years ago, haven't worn one in well over 15. I do deads and squats at least once a week, and I have a disk buldge in my lower back. Proper form trumps "aids" every time.