A basic body-building necessity, a weight lifting belt supports your lower back when you perform heavy squats, heavy rowing exercises and especially when you dead lift. Picking out the right weight belt at a sports store will prove crucial when it comes to protecting the lumbar region of your back during training, so don't skimp or choose a weight belt because of its cost or the way that it looks. Size, fit and comfort are the three most important factors when choosing a weight lifting belt.
Step 1
Choose a weight lifting belt that rests comfortably on your hips. If the belt puts pressure on your hips when you rest, try on a smaller size.
Step 2
Make sure that the weight lifting belt fits snugly around your lower torso. For maximum support, the belt must hug your mid-section.
Step 3
Decide whether you would prefer a nylon or leather weight lifting belt. Nylon weight lifting belts have some give to them, a quality that leather weight belts do not possess. Lighter than leather belts, nylon weight lifting belts usually fare better for lifters with a history of back injuries.
Step 4
Pick out a weight lifting belt with either a one prong or two buckles, and decide whether you would prefer a lever. While buckles may offer more security, a lever makes it easier for you or a partner to tighten the belt.
Step 5
Check the rules regarding weight belts if you participate in power lifting competitions. If you need a belt for competition, the association may have strict requirements in place concerning the width, thickness and construction of weight lifting belts.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that cost does not determine the effectiveness of a weight lifting belt. An expensive weight lifting belt may not have any advantages over the less expensive belts.
- Never purchase a weight lifting belt without trying it on first.
Things You'll Need
- Powerlifting rulebook
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