Lifting with no belt?

[riverrock]

It is a good idea to leave the belt at home? I have been training hard without the belt as I try to recover from illness which ruled me out for months. I am only just back in action. Anyhow, I feel that my strength, especially my lower back feels stronger (relatively) and that I will actually become a better athlete as a result of the lay off.

But, what risks are there in not using a belt? My technique is good.

 

[SgtSlaughter]

you may develop genetic mutations.

Seriously though, you don't need it for the most part. I pull mine out only for the heaviest pulling that I do if I do it, that's about it.

 

[s8nlilhlpr]

I would say leave it at home. I have one, but haven't used it in over a year.

 

[Protobuilder]

I would say leave it at home. I have one, but haven't used it in over a year.

+1

 

[Cynical Simian]

There are probably more risks in using (read: becoming dependent on) a belt than not using one. I agree with the above.

 

[Deleted member 33117]

I only use mine for my absolute heaviest sets on deads and squats. If it is a weight that I can nail at least 6 reps with, I don't bother.

I think they can be a good thing, but as has been said don't become reliant on them for every single set long term or you could injure yourself one day when you attempt a heavy lift without one.

 

[Creepusmaximus]

I don't try one rep maxs any more and I haven't used a belt in probably 10 years. I think they hurt you more than help unless your in the habit of doing one rep maxs often.

 

[Extra_Strong]

some use the belt and it gives them a since of saftey. I do not believe they help. But I also do not believe they are harmful. if using the belt makes you feel better use it. what ever gits u under the bar!!!

 

[anotherbutters]

But, what risks are there in not using a belt?

There's a risk of developing your core

If you don't use a belt in your regular training, it stands to reason you'll develop your core strength to support your back. Then on the odd occasion where you want to try a 1RM, use the belt if you find it helps.

 

[riverrock]

Yes, did a few squats this morning without the belt. Again, I not anywhere near where I was pre-illness, but I felt that I pushed myself hard without the belt and I made no mistakes and felt a lot better for it.

There's always the safety bar to drop the weights onto if it gets too much anyhow, so I think I'll see how far I can go without the belt!

 

[blut wump]

I've not used my belt for at least 18 months except to attach a chain to while sled-dragging, this includes periods of setting new 1RM and 3RM maxes in squats. I've never used a belt while deadlifting.

I think not using the belt does work to strengthen your core. Throwing in some front squats and good mornings from time to time can target your core a little more directly. I like to think of it in terms of functional strength and any time you come to lift something while you are on your feet then the forces have to go through your core. Having a core that is of the same calibre as the rest of your development should help you to use your strength and remain injury-free in the real world.

 

[Guinness5.0]

Like BW, I've set my PRs on dead and Oly squat beltless (500 and 515, respectively) and I don't feel that a belt would've done me any good. I personally feel that if you train heavy without it, you don't need it even when maxing. But for the odd 1rm attempt, I don't think it's a bad idea to use one.

As has been said, a belt acts as a crutch for a weak midsection. Regular use use of a belt only allows the strength deficit between the midsection and the other major muscles to widen.