Tell me when, and why, you use a belt

Jihad · #1 10-17-2007, 08:16 PM

I just don't use them anymore. As my squat and DL #'s start getting up there, I'm thinking about bringing my old belt out of the closet. What are your considerations regarding the belt? Just the weight? Back problems? Never use it cause you have something against it? I wanna hear about it.

Northern · #2 10-17-2007, 08:26 PM

I have never used a belt. To me it's more of an aid or crutch. I believe it hinders the devlopment of your core and you will benefit more without it. This is the same reason why I won't use straps, but of course with grip strength.

That being said if your doing a huge amount of weight and its a safety issue then you do what you have to do.

Efourdee · #3 10-17-2007, 08:30 PM

For weighted dips. Pullups too.

GooseHinson · #4 10-17-2007, 09:57 PM

I use it for all squats and pulls over 90%. When I take a deep breath in my belly and hold it against the belt, I feel it keeps my back tighter. It may just be a placebo effect, but I find it adds at least 5% to my lifts.