Why Wear a Weight Lifting Belt?

Free weights or machine weights aren't the only tools for strength training.

If you work out at a gym, you might see weight trainers or bodybuilders using weight belts. The purpose or benefit of wearing a weight lifting belt might not be obvious, but it does have advantages for some exercisers.

Function

Weight lifting belts help to support the back when lifting heavy weights. They're helpful for bodybuilders performing dead lifts or power lifting. The belt reminds you to keep your spine in the correct position during heavy lifting.

Benefits

By keeping your spine in the correct position, you are able to maintain good form and reduce the risk of injury by tearing or spraining a muscle, tendon or ligament. This is especially important for those working with very heavy weights. Weight lifting belts reduce pressure on the spinal discs and enhance the body's ability to stabilize itself. Studies on weight lifting belts suggest that people who use them can lift weights faster and with greater comfort.

Significance

Despite the benefits of weight lifting belts, they aren't strictly necessary for the average weight lifter. Weight lifting belts are most helpful for bodybuilders and people with a serious dedication to lifting weights. For most people, a belt may not do much to improve performance, and it isn't necessary for exercises that place minimal strain on the back. Even bodybuilders should not wear a belt for every exercise. It's only necessary for movements that may stress the back and use high resistance.

References

• Mayo Clinic: If I lift free weights, do I need to wear a weightlifting belt?
• Healthy.Net: The Purpose and Appropriateness Of Weightlifting Belts