I’m a novice lifter who’s been working out for about 2-3 months following the Greyskull LP program with some accessory lifts. I’m currently 5’9” 206 lbs and lifts are 140/155/165 for squat/bench/deadlift. I’m aiming to cut down to 170 lbs and strength goals are 1xBW bench, 1.5x BW squat, and 2x BW deadlift. I’m not planning to compete as a powerlifter, but I do want to become decently strong and muscular, so I think my goals aren’t unrealistic. Equally as important is staying injury free because I don’t want to destroy my joints or blow out my back. I genuinely enjoy lifting and want to do this long term. I record every set and get form critique from friends or nearby powerlifters at my gym. I’ve also spent a significant amount of my time learning how to properly brace, executing the lifts, and of course putting it all into practice. I was wondering if getting a weight lifting belt will help reinforce proper bracing, if it will help prevent injury on squats and deadlifts, but also if using a belt will cause any muscle imbalance or weakness due to it’s assistance, especially once the weight actually starts getting heavy.
Slow your roll there buddy. Also most gyms have belts you can use. Don’t let it fool you into lifting too much too soon.
Thanks, I forgot my gym has belts. I’ll definitely pace myself.
Belts will prevent core development. You shouldnt need it for your goals listed. If it gets much heavier, then you might. Progress slowly and dont get injured
Thanks! Have any tips for injury prevention?
It's all about pace. Dont push your limits on your joints. Develop well rounded muscles as well. Muscle imbalance can also cause injuries
I hate to say it but injuries are inevitable. This is from someone who tried to do competitive in school. If you’re unlucky the injuries will not heal 100%. Weightlifters all use belts. The evidence is slim on its preventive impact.
I know what you mean. I’ve hurt myself weight lifting a long time ago just being stupid, not following a real program and using sloppy technique. Some of those things still flare up once in a while but nothing major. That’s why I’m being extra cautious now that I’m getting more serious about lifting.
I don’t think power lifting range of weights is healthy but it’s just me. I do very nominal weights these days, and switched to other stuff like functional and calisthenics. If you still want to lift maybe weightlifting could be an option , it’s more dynamic and weights are lower. I stopped all of it basically, just do squats cause they seem to be good for knees paradoxically. Do what fits you of course
Its useful if you are lifting very heavy. You don't need it right now but may be useful once you get closer to your target weights. I use it for top sets for squat and deadlift
Thanks!
Your current weights don’t warrant a belt. Don’t use it too early or it will be a crutch.
Thanks I’ll keep that in mind.
like many others have said before your weights don’t warrant a belt. continue being cautious.
I am doing 325 squat and I am 204. I don't use belt. Sure you would need a solid core and immense control but man I enjoy my after workout routine on bed.
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I'd reccomend not using a belt for the majority of your sets. Use it if you feel you need the reinforcement for a heavy set or two, but don't get in the habit of using it all the time and you're good. But you have a lot of room to get stronger before you really need to think about using a belt in the first place if you've only been at it for 2-3 months. Give it at least a year+
Thanks for the feedback!