The Pros and Cons of Using a Weight Lifting Belt

Weight lifting is an incredible exercise program that does more for the body than just build up the muscles. Weight lifting also strengthens the skeletal system, the ligaments and tendons, and increases the metabolic rate of the body resulting in the burning of calories.

The equipment required for a weight lifting program includes a set of weights. These weights can be freestanding or part of a weight pulley system. Additional equipment includes loose fitting clothing, weight gloves and the possible use of a weight lifting belt.

There are two schools of thought regarding the use of a weight lifting belt when involved with weight training. Those that favor the use of a weight lifting belt, the pros, stress the importance of using this piece of equipment. Those that are not in favor of using a weight lifting belt in their workouts, the cons, offer their opposed rationale.

What is a Weight Lifting Belt?

This type of belt is generally made from leather, but also can be made out of durable nylon. The weight lifting belt is fastened around the weight lifter's waist and secured in a similar fashion as a normal belt. Generally, the portion of the belt that crosses the small of the back is approximately six inches in height.

Pros

Those athletes that advocate the use of a weight lifting belt during their weight training routine suggest that the weight lifting belt will protect the lumbar portion of the spinal column from needless injury. Those in favor of using the belt also suggest that the thickness and width of the belt that spans the lower back can prevent muscle injuries.

Additionally, the wearing of the weight lifting belt will remind the weight lifter not to bend or arch their back when lifting. This poor form of weight lifting could result in permanent damage being done to the discs between the vertebrae.

Also, if engaged in power lifting, this added support will provide extra protection for the small of the back. Power lifting involves weight lifting maneuvers such as the clean and jerk, squats and military press. Power lifting is done with incredible amounts of weight.

Cons

Those who do not advocate using the weight lifting belt argue that the wearing of the belt will cause needless pressure to be placed on the abdomen. In their argument they point out that this undue pressure placed on the abdomen increases the weight lifter's blood pressure.

They also argue that the use of a weight lifting belt is counterproductive in building up the muscles of the lower back. They point out that any dependence upon the belt will weaken the small of the back rather than allow for its strengthening. The strengthening of the lower back, they point out, is one of the major reasons in taking up weightlifting. Thus, it is quite important to lift weights with caution.