Deciding whether to use gym accessories is a personal choice, and what accessories you use and when has to work into your personal gym ambitions. Gym options like a lifting belt have become a popular way to elevate your workout session, and you might want to use a lifting belt in all your workouts, or as way to support your workout some of the time.
Why do you use a lifting belt? 🏋️♀️
Lifting belts, or weightlifting belts as they’re also known, are generally used during heavy lifts as they offer support to your core muscles. The lifting belt is both a physical support for these muscles, but simply having the belt in place can remind you to engage your core muscles better. It’s great to use the belt for:
✔️ Improved performance: In certain cases, lifters find that the addition of a lifting belt better supports them in lifting heavier weights. This is through the physical and mental support it provides. Lifting belts can also improve your lifting position, making you stronger by helping you maintain your form.
✔️ Reducing injury risk: You benefit from internal spinal support with a lifting belt as it increases your intra-abdominal pressure, reducing your risk of injury. If you have a history of lower back pain or simply want to reduce the risk, a lifting belt is great. It’s important to note that while lifting belts can reduce, they are not a substitute for proper form or core strength. Never lift when injured and always lift within your capabilities and skillset.
When do you use a lifting belt? 🏋️♀️
There’s no set right or wrong time as to when you should use a lifting belt, but most people use them when they have to engage in heavy lifting. When you’re doing heavy compound lifts that put pressure on your lower back such as squats, lunges, deadlifts, and overhead presses. The lifting belt can help stabilise your spine with external support.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, using a lifting belt during the heavier part of your warm-up is a good idea.
How to use a lifting belt correctly 🏋️♀️
You should place the belt securely over your waist and tighten it enough to provide sufficient abdominal pressure without being too tight – you should be able to fit two fingers (width-wise) between the belt and your body. The exact position of the lifting belt will depend on the type of exercise you’re doing, your body structure, and your personal preference so try a few positions to get comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to mix belts into your training rather than incorporating them into every workout. Trainers often advise that you do some lifts without a belt, such as warmup lifts or higher lifts – but be sure to focus on bracing your core.
This way, you’re engaging your core muscles and building strength without becoming reliant on the belt. When you start on heavier lifts, you can add the belt for added support.
What are the best lifting belts for gym?
The Power Lock Lifting Belt by Yowie is designed to help lifters execute the heaviest compound lifts. This belt provides ultimate support to the core, giving athletes the stability to move more weight while reducing the risk of strains and injuries. It is ideal for powerlifting movements and the main barbell lifts squat, deadlift, and bench press.
The reason Yowie’s Power Lock Lifting Belt is so good is:
✔️ The consistent thickness and rigid construction make it ultra-supportive.
✔️ It’s made with a self-locking mechanism that ensures a secure and tight fit, and is easy to take on and off or adjust. This is ideal if you’re doing pyramid sets of exercises.
✔️ The heavy-duty nylon material and secure stitching mean it’s made to last.
✔️ It’s lightweight and comes in a range of sizes to fit all bodies.
✔️ There is no padding and it has a straight-edge feature making it appropriate for a range of lifting styles.
The Weightlifting Belt by Yowie supports your core to help you perform in the gym, whether you’re weightlifting, doing CrossFit, or just functional training. It’s a tapered belt which means it offers more support for your lower back and lower abdominals while preserving mobility.
The reason Yowie’s Weightlifting Belt is so good is:
✔️ It’s built to support the lower back and abdominals to reduce the risk of injury.
✔️ The tapered style and curved waist preserve mobility for various gym training.
✔️ It has quick locking which makes it easier to put on and take off.
✔️ It has a tight, secure fit that can precisely match your waist size.
✔️ It’s comfortable and durable, suited to men and women of all sizes.
While there are many benefits to lifting belts, they’re not suited to every situation or every lifter – it’s just about finding a workout rhythm that works for you. Remember lifting belts must be used with the proper lifting technique and core strength training, while also ensuring it’s worn appropriately to maximise the effectiveness.
We provide high-quality gym gear for South Africans who lift!
