Why Use Weightlifting Belts?

Weightlifters of all skill levels invest in weight belts because they believe these items will help with technique and reduce the chance of suffering a serious injury. Some believe that when used properly, these belts can decrease the amount of strain put on the lifter's back by stabilizing the area. The truth, however, remains that most weightlifters do not require a weightlifting belt, because little scientific evidence regarding their effectiveness exists.

Reasons

The main reason you might purchase a weightlifting belt is to remind yourself to keep your spine in place during a lift. This holds particular importance when lifting extremely heavy weights, as one small mistake can lead to a serious injury. Many weightlifters believe that this extra support prevents injury to the lower back by placing more pressure on the lower body.

Evidence Supporting Weight Belts

The scientific evidence supporting the use of weight belts states that the spine compresses when you lift large weights in a process called spinal shrinkage. Spinal shrinkage causes discomfort for weightlifters and can even lead to injury in extreme cases. Research published in the "British Journal of Sports Medicine" in 1991 shows that six in eight weightlifters suffered greater shrinkage without the use of a belt.

Evidence Dismissing Weight Belts

Research in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" published in 1999 shows that no correlation between weight belts and a decreased strain on the regional-skeletal system exists. Therefore, the hypothesized link between using a weight belt and a decrease in the chance of suffering a spinal injury might not exist. The weight belt simply does not reduce movement in the lower back while lifting weights, so the chance of suffering an injury remains equal.

Solution

Using a weight belt can act as a reminder to keep your spine in a neutral position throughout your lift. You do not want to lift using your back, as this can lead to serious injuries. Those who do power lifting remain significantly susceptible to these types of injuries and while the belt might not actually help physically, it does provide a mental reminder to follow the proper technique.

Warning

Whether you wear a belt or not, follow the proper technique when lifting weights to prevent injury. Your grip and footwear also hold importance, as they will allow you to follow this technique without worry. Do not allow a weightlifting belt to provide you with a false sense of security, as evidence exists on both side of the argument.