Why Use a Weightlifting Belt?

Overview

Amateur and professional weightlifters use weightlifting belts during their workouts. These belts are meant to stabilize the back and decrease compression of the spine. While studies have shown that the belts can increase levels of comfort during a weight workout, using proper technique can be in itself enough to avoid back injury. If you plan to up your weight workouts, talk to your trainer or a medical professional about the proper use of a belt and the best ways to avoid a back injury.

Function

A weightlifting belt is used during weight training to stabilize the spine, particularly in the lumbar region of the back. This stabilization acts to prevent injury to the spine and muscles of the back.

Scientific Evidence

According to a study conducted by the Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences in Liverpool, UK, the use of a weightlifting belt during a heavy lifting circuit helped stabilize the trunk of the weightlifter. Subjects in the study who wore a weightlifting belt complained of less discomfort than those who lifted the same amount of weight without a weightlifting belt.

Spinal Shrinkage

As weight is loaded onto your spine during lifting, a loss in stature occurs. According to the Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, a weightlifting belt can help prevent this loss of stature, which is caused by a decrease in height in the intervertebral discs. A weightlifting belt can help prevent this spinal shrinkage, which can cause discomfort and injury.

Who Needs to Wear One

According to the Mayo Clinic, the novice weightlifter does not have to wear a weightlifting belt. If you watch your technique and work to keep your spine in a neutral position, you will not benefit from a weightlifting belt. The Mayo Clinic recommends wearing a weightlifting belt when you're power lifting or doing dead lifts from the floor.

Talk to a Professional

If you've injured your back and want to continue a weight regimen, talk to your doctor about the benefits of wearing a weightlifting belt. If you lift weights and are curious if you should wear a belt, talk to a licensed personal trainer or fitness professional for advice.