To use a belt or not to use it???????

[dknyguy]

I have been working out for about four years now and I for one have never used a belt. I am all about looks. I do not go crazy heavy but I do squat and do dead lifts. Should I be using a belt. Some people scared the shit out of me when they started talking about hernias. On these power exercises I go light, I am not sure if this matter but just though I would let you know.

 

[diamonddiceclay]

if you use heavy weights on back day-you should try a belt to be safe-otherwise, not

 

[gymtime]

In the four years you've been lifting, have you ever known or know of someone getting a hernia?

If you're not lifting heavy, you don't need one.

 

[chillin408]

I wear one when doing some lifts. I think it helps me not misplace my hips. I get lazy sometimes and don't want to keep my back straight so my hips feel like they go out of place. I really don't know if it makes a difference or not though...I have always wondered if it does?

 

[110%]

i dont see why you wouldnt use one when doing exercises such as squats or deads, its not going to do any harm, and it is gonna be much better onyour lower bakc.

 

[gymtime]

i dont see why you wouldnt use one when doing exercises such as squats or deads, its not going to do any harm, and it is gonna be much better onyour lower bakc.

Not necessarily. Squats and deads help develop your abs and back stablizer muscles. If you wear a belt all the time, these muscles won't develop as well. I think belts should only be worn on your heaviest sets.

 

[DR. NOE]

I perfer using one.

 

[2demon2]

I have been working out for about four years now and I for one have never used a belt. I am all about looks.

What's a belt? A new supplement?

 

[Old Guy]

I use one heavy squats/deads, but not on lighter weights. I can go considerably heavier on max squat w/ a belt. Also might use one during heavy bb curls for lower back protection and helps you keep from cheating as much.

 

[Rocket]

I been training for 17+ years, I only use a belt when the weight get up to 315lbs.

Rocket

 

[Thaibox]

I wear a belt on my heavy lifts because I have a couple of crushed discs, otherwise I probably would only use it on singles and such.

 

[110%]

Not necessarily. Squats and deads help develop your abs and back stablizer muscles. If you wear a belt all the time, these muscles won't develop as well. I think belts should only be worn on your heaviest sets.

i guess you got me there gymtime, though im gonna stick with the belt as i worry more about my lower back in he long run.

 

[NateDogg]

i guess you got me there gymtime, though im gonna stick with the belt as i worry more about my lower back in he long run.

That is exactly why you would not want to wear a belt. The belt is a crutch and it will slow the growth of your back and AB muscles relative to the rest of your body. Perfect your form and you will not need a belt. Reduce your weight for a while if you have to, just to get used to not having a belt, but do not use a belt just to save your back, you are not really doing so. Gaining strength in your back and ABs is what will prevent future back problems.

My $.02

ND

 

[110%]

nate dogg yeah i do hyperextensions and deadlifts once a week with my back routine, so im still gaining strength there.

 

[gymtime]

There are few things stronger than a 17 (or almost 17) year old back. Use the belt only for the real heavy stuff bro, you'll be fine.

 

[anthrax]

You should only use a belt when lifting over about 85% of max. You need a strong back to squat, so you should not use a belt unless you are lifting heavy.
working w/o a belt will make your lower back grow stronger

 

[SmooThy5464]

yeh i never used to use a belt intill i found myself with a hernia i had to go for surgery then sit around in bed for like 2 weeks straight therefore i lost like 20 lbs cuz even after i couldnt lift for a while so it is a good idea to just use a belt regardless i know i do now