Weightlifting Belt Suggestions

[ODB]

Does anyone have any preferences on brands for weightlifting belts and perhaps any "scientific" backing as to what belts work better than others? I'm getting back into the weights after a long rest for other issues and my old leather belt got wet and is in the trash. Thanks for any information. Looking forward to tossing the iron around again.

This question might have been asked elsewhere so if you can point me in the right direction this is my first time in this forum.

[jeffk14]

I don't wear one. Years ago (throughout the '80's), I wore a belt for just about everything. Had lower back pain off and on a lot of the time. For the last 15 years or so, I don't ever wear a belt and my back feels fine. I know mentioning the "core" seems like a cliche, but I feel that by dropping the weight and learning to lift without a belt, my core has gotten stronger. I guess if you're doing maximal lifts on the squat or DL, a belt would be O.K. occasionally, but these days my belt is used only for pulling my homemade sled.

As to your question, if you want a belt, I'd just recommend a good quality old-school leather one. That's what I always used, but then again, I'm old.

[mackanno]

A belt will give you a false sense of safety, while interfering with your core strength. I would suggest to practice technique and add weight as you feel it comfortable lifting.
If your overall body is strong but you core weak, you will be asking for trouble and nobody would like you having some,

[Mouse]

The best weight lifting belt in my humble opinion is a big deep breath held in to keep your core tight

First belts, then pads on bars, then gloves, then straps.

Go on - give the deep breath a try.

[sean]

As you can see, belts are not very popular on Stronglifts. I like using belts so I'll throw in my two cents.

A belt will give you a false sense of safety, while interfering with your core strength. I would suggest to practice technique and add weight as you feel it comfortable lifting.
If your overall body is strong but you core weak, you will be asking for trouble and nobody would like you having some,

This comes from Starting Strength 2nd Edition: "A belt will not prevent your trunk form getting and staying strong. There is plenty of work for the trunk muscles even if a belt is worn on heavy sets; it's not as if your trunk muscles just go to sleep when you put on your belt. A belt does in fact help you lift more weight safely than you would without one, since a tight back feels better when squatting and that tightness allows you to develop more force against the bar."

The best weight lifting belt in my humble opinion is a big deep breath held in to keep your core tight
First belts, then pads on bars, then gloves, then straps.
Go on - give the deep breath a try.

I'm with you when it comes to pads and gloves, but belts and straps definitely have their place, just as chalk and weightlifting shoes do.

It really comes down to personal preference. Try a belt and decide.

Here is the one I use. http://www.inzernet.com/detail_econobelt.asp?PRODUCT_ID=ECON_POWER_BELT

[Mouse]

To be fair, I suppose Sean is right.

It depends on your point of view on this one. A lot of folk on here like to lift raw.
If you want to use a belt - use one.
Just remember though a belt is not going to make up for a weak core, but if it gives you an extra sense of comfort on your heavier lifts then go for it - but i'd maintain these have to be heavy lifts of perhaps 1.5 times bodyweight and above for squats.

[RJK]

I deloaded and hung the belt on the wall. Started doing good form and cannot tell the difference. Actualy stronger than when using belt but that is attributed to time and work, not from hanging up the belt.

[bigwhat62]

what kind of weight are you squatting and pulling? it would have to be pretty significant enough to incorporate a belt. its better to avoid using a belt and focus on building core strength and practicing the valsalva method.