I am glad to see that not one person in this thread understands what a belt is used for, or how to use it when wearing one.
1. A belt does not help stabilize the spine. When used properly the lifter creates much higher inter-abdominal pressure and that helps decrease the compression and shearing forces on the spine. (when the lifter is using the Vasalva manuvere) How???
Contrary to popular belief, pressure inside the abdomen puts most of the force up and down. Pushing up on the diaphragm and down on the pelvic floor. Taking stress off of the more vulnerable structures of the lumbar spine.
2. It can be said that a belt helps to support the stomach more than the back. The belt assists by acting as an external restraint for the abdominal pressure. So, a belt, supporting the trunk, while the breath is being held, indirectly supports the back.
3. A belt can give a lifter a better "feel" of proper spinal positioning. Giving physical feedback as one sets the spine in the proper position. This has nothing to do with actual support, but from a proper technique standpoint, decreases the chances of injury.
(The above is taken from Supertraining by Mel Siff, for all those people who like references)
Do I wear a belt??? Yes. During all lifting??? No. I use a belt for most squatting, deadlifting, and pressing movements. (both bench presses and overhead presses)
After I learned to use a belt I believe it is a very useful tool in lifting. A properly used belt can increase the amount of weight that can be stabilized and lifted. Once the skill is high enough I believe that a belt can help by a 5% or 10% margin.
I also believe that anything that can be used to increase safety and support in lifting, should be used.
I know there are a lot of, "you are not a real man if you wear a belt" type of people. The only thing I have to say to that.
The people who say that are usually not that strong. I have never seen a "real man" lift "real big weight" without using a belt.
1. A belt does not help stabilize the spine. When used properly the lifter creates much higher inter-abdominal pressure and that helps decrease the compression and shearing forces on the spine. (when the lifter is using the Vasalva manuvere) How???
Contrary to popular belief, pressure inside the abdomen puts most of the force up and down. Pushing up on the diaphragm and down on the pelvic floor. Taking stress off of the more vulnerable structures of the lumbar spine.
2. It can be said that a belt helps to support the stomach more than the back. The belt assists by acting as an external restraint for the abdominal pressure. So, a belt, supporting the trunk, while the breath is being held, indirectly supports the back.
3. A belt can give a lifter a better "feel" of proper spinal positioning. Giving physical feedback as one sets the spine in the proper position. This has nothing to do with actual support, but from a proper technique standpoint, decreases the chances of injury.
(The above is taken from Supertraining by Mel Siff, for all those people who like references)
Do I wear a belt??? Yes. During all lifting??? No. I use a belt for most squatting, deadlifting, and pressing movements. (both bench presses and overhead presses)
After I learned to use a belt I believe it is a very useful tool in lifting. A properly used belt can increase the amount of weight that can be stabilized and lifted. Once the skill is high enough I believe that a belt can help by a 5% or 10% margin.
I also believe that anything that can be used to increase safety and support in lifting, should be used.
I know there are a lot of, "you are not a real man if you wear a belt" type of people. The only thing I have to say to that.
The people who say that are usually not that strong. I have never seen a "real man" lift "real big weight" without using a belt.
