The Best Lifting Belts

Buying Guide

Lifting belts are generally used by people performing weight lifting activities such as powerlifting, squats or deadlifting. These specialized belts are designed to stabilize and support your core, protecting you from injury. Injuries from weightlifting can encompass everything from muscle strains and tendonitis in the hip to spinal problems, so a belt can be helpful if you want to lift more without hurting yourself. But finding the right lifting belt can feel overwhelming. You may not know where to start with so many different options for sizing and colors.

The sport of weightlifting is practiced by people all over the world. Both men and women compete in this sport, generally against members of their own gender and weight class. Because of this, belts may fit each body type differently. When looking for a lifting belt, consider the length of your torso. If you have a longer torso, a 6-inch belt may work better than a 4-inch belt. Also, consider how often you’ll use this belt; they undergo stress during use, especially the closure.

The material from which your belt is made is also an essential factor to consider. Lifting belts can be leather, nylon, neoprene or a blend, all of which offer different levels of breathability. If you’re looking for something rigid and durable, leather is a good option. If you’re looking for something more lightweight, another material might be best. Keep in mind that most lifting belts should be hand-washed rather than machine-washed to keep them in the best shape.

• Make sure you wear your belt as tight as you can without it restricting your breathing.
• Find the right belt height for your body; you may have to experiment. Wear it at rib level or nearer to your pelvis to find what feels best, and make sure it lies above your navel and is even across your abdomen and back. Adjust as needed. 
• You don’t need to wear a belt throughout your workout, especially if you’re doing repetitive exercises, curls and bench presses or using machines — these activities do not put a load on your spine. Squats and deadlifts, however, are another story.
• Try only using a lifting belt on heavier sets and leaving it off for lighter sets, or keeping it off during most of your warmup. 
• Before you don a belt, make sure your form is perfect — otherwise, you can risk injury. Belts can be a great tool for intermediate to advanced athletes, but many experts do not recommend them to beginners who haven’t yet strengthened their cores properly. The belt is not designed to be used as a crutch.
• Do not use a belt if you have a hernia or high blood pressure. Do not use it to mask an injury.