Belt or No Belt?

[jwood]

It definitely helped me as a training tool when trying to get the feeling of pushing the abs out while really tightening them, it really helps to stabilize

[bwys61]

some morons believe that tightening their core is sucking in their gut. The belt teaches otherwise. I'd like to see someone suck in their gut on a 500 lb squat

[jwood]

Originally Posted by bwys61

some morons believe that tightening their core is sucking in their gut. The belt teaches otherwise. I'd like to see someone suck in their gut on a 500 lb squat

LOL I agree, when you suck in your gut all of your stabilization is gone, and I am not sure why you would want to make your base smaller

[bwys61]

because that is how morons look skinnier, so it must work

[Bodybygamma]

I am new here but have some exp under my belt no puns intended....ok maybe a little. When doing anything in the 85% range and up you should always wear a belt, especially if you do more then one discipline of lifting for example Strongman. The last thing you want to do is blow out your back and get injured. Now I say 85% to indicate heavy lifting you don't need a belt for curling or light training, just on the big sets.

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by Bodybygamma

I am new here but have some exp under my belt no puns intended....ok maybe a little. When doing anything in the 85% range and up you should always wear a belt, especially if you do more then one discipline of lifting for example Strongman. The last thing you want to do is blow out your back and get injured. Now I say 85% to indicate heavy lifting you don't need a belt for curling or light training, just on the big sets.

That's a solid approach. I know many guys advocate belts at 85-90%.

It also helps me to focus on pushing against the belt with the abs. This helps me keep my lower back tight. Don't know if this is a normal practice for other lifters.

[AthleteCreator]

I have never used a belt, including loads at 100+%

However, maybe that's why I can only claim a 355lb. max squat.

Also, seeing skinnier guys squat more than me at competition was an eye opener. So, as it has been said by everyone, I'll be getting a belt and wearing it for loads at 85% and above.

Hopefully I see some really good numbers. Eventhough I've been lifting forever, I feel like I'm leaving a shit ton of strength unused.

[JesseA]

I've been using my belt on all my working sets for squats and deadlifts for the past few weeks. I am beginning to love this thing, it helps me concentrate so much more on keeping proper form and I really like being able to push my abs into the belt. My lifts keep going up also as a result.

Good news! Elite FTS belts are back:

EFS Power Belt Infosheet

[AthleteCreator]

If you're going to do that, I would suggest "cycling" your belt usage.

[Jesse Polanco]

intra abdominal pressure via a belt will help get your squat up. I suddgest using the belt for you heavier sets and not keeping it off for the lighter sets.

you need to learn to breath using your stomach and to try and break the belt off of yourself every rep. it will take time but the reward is awesome

lay on your stomach on the side of your bed with you legs hanging off and lift yourself off of the bed or legs of the floor by pushing your stomach onto the bed this will help learn to push into the belt. hold this for a 5 count and eventually do 10 sets of 5 sets.