Bodybuilding Belt: Buying Advice (2024 Guide)

Anyone who has gone to a gym has probably seen someone wearing a weight belt. Some exercisers scoff at the idea of ​​wearing one and choose to lift without one. However, wearing a lumbar belt can sometimes be helpful.

These lifting belts provide you with a point of support and facilitate increased intra-abdominal pressure when training with a heavy bar, ensuring that your abdominal and lower back muscles remain in tension while you lean on the belt throughout the effort. There's a reason why some athletes are able to lift heavier loads using a belt (it's handy) and it's usually one of the most common pieces of equipment in your gym bag, along with pull-up belts and pre-workout gear.

There are many types of exercise belts (with adjustable pin, with hook and loop, leather, neoprene) and the number of models available, like most bodybuilding accessories, has increased dramatically with the popularity of bodybuilding.

In this article, we will see, among other things, what weight belts are used for, in which case they are useful and effective in increasing your performance, as well as the different types of belts depending on your needs.

Do you need a weight training belt?

The answer is yes if:

• You regularly lift more than 1 to 1.5 times your body weight in squats and deadlifts;
• Are you looking to improve spinal support when exercising with heavy loads?
• You are more interested in gaining strength and gaining muscle.

What is a weight belt used for?

The bodybuilding, weightlifting or powerlifting belt has 3 main functions:

1. Supports the back and reduces pressure on the lower back during heavy exercises⁽¹⁾ ;
2. It teaches you to maintain constant intra-abdominal pressure when doing exercises that require an abdominal belt.⁽²⁾ ;
3. It can improve your posture during exercises that require a neutral spinal position⁽³⁾.

When worn correctly, the belt goes around the entire abdomen, in other words, the rectus muscles, obliques and erector muscles (lower back).

This position of the belt will allow you to create tension in the abdomen, providing additional support and stability.

Which weight belt to buy?

To help you make the best choice, we've selected the most versatile weight training belt for you. This was chosen for QualityHa price Reasonable, durable and positive user reviews.

Amazon Affiliate Link. Prices mentioned in this article are indicative and subject to change.

What exercises are weight belts used for?

This strength accessory is useful for various exercises, especially those that involve carrying heavy loads.

Here are the main exercises:

In principle, most athletes can lift greater weights with a belt than without a belt.

Thus, the belt often allows athletes to achieve 1RM (maximum load at one repetition) or beat new personal records.

Should a beginner wear a weight belt?

If you are a beginner, it is not necessary to wear a support belt.

As a general rule, you probably won't need a belt until you can lift at least 1 to 1.5 times your body weight in the squat and deadlift.

For example, if you weigh 70kg, you won't necessarily need a belt to be able to lift 80kg straight.

Moreover, it is necessary to first know how to perform your exercises with good technique before using the belt to lift heavy loads.

Weight belts cannot correct poor technique. If your technique is poor, trying to lift heavy loads, even with a belt, can quickly lead to injury.

However, for those who have already acquired good technique and are looking for extra support to start lifting heavier loads, purchasing a high-quality weight belt can be a great decision.

Which belt for beginners?

When should you not use a weightlifting belt?

There are 3 situations when you should not wear a seat belt.

1. If you have a weak core: Overreliance on the belt can prevent the development of core muscle strength and cause these muscles to weaken over time.
2. If you're looking to correct poor posture or avoid lower back pain: Always make sure you perfect your technique before resorting to a belt.
3. It limits your mobility: Reduced mobility in exercises like back squats can increase your risk of injury.

In addition, you should not use the belt if your doctor has advised you to avoid the Valsalva maneuver (such as people with high blood pressure or who are at risk for stroke).

The Valsalva maneuver is a breathing technique that involves exhaling with a closed glottis.

How much does a weightlifting belt cost?

Weight belts cost all sorts of prices, but in general, it's the type of belt that determines the price, and most belts of the same model fall within a very close price range.

In general, low-quality belts sell for anywhere from €30 and go up to around €200 for a high-quality belt. Of all the brands that offer weight training belts (Harbinger, RDX, 4trainer, Gorilla wear, Corenght), one brand stands out from the rest for its quality, and that is the SBD brand.

The latter offers a belt with a sliding lever and an adjustable toothed belt. It is also International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) certified with a maximum thickness of 13mm and a width of 10cm.

What are the criteria for purchasing a weight belt?

In recent years, weight training belts have undergone some innovations, but have kept their goals simple: to support, stabilize and strengthen the chest. Here are the main factors to consider when choosing your belt.

Your training and your sport

The type of training you do will have a big impact on the belts you consider. Powerlifters, powerlifters and strong men will prefer belts that prioritize safety above all else. The last thing you want is for your belt to come loose during heavy exercise.

For all others (CrossFit or bodybuilding), ease of adjustment, comfort, and other factors will be taken into consideration more.

Your budget

The price range is very wide and there is a good reason for that. Some of these belts are handcrafted with high-quality materials, while others are designed to please the general public.

Belt type

There are many types of belt models that can be grouped into three main categories: cylindrical, tapered, and conical.

Each belt has different design features that are useful for specific types of strength athletes.

Cylindrical belt

This type of belt has the same width throughout and covers the waist evenly. It is designed to support the back, abdomen and sides evenly. Weightlifters and strength athletes usually resort to these belts.

Pointed belt

Weightlifters and amateur athletes often prefer this belt because it has extra thickness in the back area, but thinner towards the abdomen. The slim tummy tuck allows the torso to stay mobile while providing support without distraction.

Conical belt

This model is rare. These straps are contoured on the sides, but offer a thicker back and front section. In theory, its design is supposed to follow the natural curvature of the bust. The 2004 Schiek Lifting Belt uses this type of design to offer a versatile belt, but with good support.

Installation mechanisms

Closing mechanisms vary from belt to belt, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to choosing the best belt for your needs, some factors are determined by training, but mostly it comes down to personal preference. Below you will find the main types of closing mechanisms and the main advantages and disadvantages associated with them.

pin

This classic mechanism provides a very secure fit once locked in place, and is easy to adjust. However, it can be difficult to lock the pins when the belt is too tight, and many exercisers need help closing it before exerting too much effort. In addition, adjustment possibilities are often limited to increments of a few centimetres.

Crane

The sling provides a secure fit just like a pin belt, but is more customizable. The downside is that it generally limits the use of the belt to one person, as resizing takes time.

Velcro

This type of accessory is easy to adjust, put on and take off, and is ideal for sports like CrossFit, but is generally less secure than other belts. Lifespan may also be shorter.

The pawl

This type of mechanism, less common, is ideal for very tight installation, but the quality of the ratchet system is crucial. Although it is inexpensive, it is often a weak point.

My opinion on weight belts

As a fitness trainer, I believe weight belts can be very beneficial for people who are constantly looking to gain strength through exercises like squats and deadlifts. In my opinion, it is less useful in all other cases. If you want to wear one, I recommend only wearing it with your heaviest loads to continue strengthening your core as you go.

What to remember

Weight belts can help support the back by increasing intra-abdominal pressure when working with heavy loads. Avoid it if you suffer from high blood pressure or weak abdominal muscles. Belts should be used sparingly during training and in no way to compensate for poor technique.