Weightlifting Belt

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leecollinsuk

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Weightlifting Belts - Do they work?!

What's everyone's opinion on using weightlifting belts? Does it do your back more good or more harm? And if so, what exercises are best to use them on/avoid them on?

I currently use them when doing shoulder exercises (lat raises, front raises, shoulder press, upright row etc)

Also, when fitness books/mags say "keep your abs tight", how tight should you keep them for optimum stability/posture?

Any opinions would be much appreciated!
 
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i use a lifting belt on squats and deadlifts. they are definately necessary when doing ehavy sets of either one, but i always wear one when doing these exercises. Doin these exercises without a belt may be dangerous, especially squats.

i dont see how wearing one could possibly cause any harm.
 
Thanks for your advice. I think I'll scrap the belt then. So how tight should your abs be when they say "keep your abs tight"? Should you be REALLY tensing them?
 
Lifting belts are fine if you use them properly and for the right reason. I agree that you dont need to use them all the time. I used to use them for trying a maximum lift or if my back is still a little sore from a previous workout. Then I dont lift heavy. If you must use them, use a good one. Dont use the one with a velcro attachment (they are not allowed in power lifting competitions). I am 63 and started training for powerlifting in the 190 pound class a few years ago. Last year, I decided to try a max lift in the squat. I used a velcro type belt when I got over 250 pounds. At 270 pounds I heard a ripping sound as I was coming up and thought I had ripped my pants. I completed the lift OK but the velcro belt had torn loose and just dropped to the floor. My power lifting days have ended. There are many exercise that I can no longer do. Too many situps cause me to have lower abdomen cramps for several days. My doctor is pretty sure I have an hernia down there somewhere but I dont wish to go under the knife. Try ripping open one of those velcro belts by hand some time and you will get an idea of the sort pressure there must have been on my mid section to tear that thing off.
 
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