Good to Know Info

About weight lifting belts....



Many different types of lifting belts are sold on the market. People use belts for support and for lowering the risk of back injuries. Belts reduce compressive forces on the back by approx. 6%. The effectiveness of such belts depends on the type and tightness, tighter belts tend to be more supportive.
Quadriceps muscle activity increases during the squat exercise when belts are utilized. However, core muscle activation is lower with belt use.




It is important to be aware of the fact that belts should not be overused as they limit potential core strength development. It is recommended that lifting belts be used only during exercises such as squats, bent over row and dead lift with maximal or near maximal weight.




Also, lifting belts should only be used during a set and should be loosened or removed between sets as they reduce blood flow back to the heart and increase blood pressure.