How to Use Weight Lifting Belts
You may wonder if you should use a weight lifting belt when you lift free weights. If your goal is to become a power lifter then, yes, you should get one, but do not use it all the time. If your goal is just to weight train using moderately heavy free weights, you should not use one because it is likely to do you more harm than good. The only purpose of a weight lifting belt is to support your lower back while you attempt to lift extreme amounts of weight.
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Instructions
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Instruction
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Determine that you will indeed benefit from using a weight lifting belt and then buy a quality belt. Often, trainers at your gym will know where to go or whom to ask for more information.
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Attach the belt around your lower abdomen. You should feel it pressing your abs in. Make sure it fits you snugly but not too tightly, as a very tight-fitting belt may cause high blood pressure. The only time it should be tied tightly is when you lift very heavy weights. Make sure you do not wear the belt for long periods of time.
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Do not use the belt every time your work out. You do not want your body to get used to it. When you wear it, keep in mind that your abdominal muscles are not being used. Make sure that your abdomen gets a work out, too, and try to limit the belt to half of your workouts and only when you lift extremely heavy weights.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not use weight lifting belts if you are a novice exerciser. Power lifting is only for very advanced exercisers. If you do not know what you are doing, this sport can be very dangerous--even deadly.
