The science behind using a belt

In powerlifting and personal training, core strength and bracing are extremely necessary. The belt is a tool that lifters use to maximize their brace and retain tension throughout their core.

This is done by deep belly breathing, which involves pushing out 365 degrees around the lifter’s torso. With a belt and when done right, the lifter is pushing their stomach, sides, and lower back into the belt all at the same time.

Many think the belt is mainly for reinforcing the core and lower back, and yes, it does do that a little, but it is to create a tighter, more solid brace. For the really strong lifters, this can be a very high amount of tension, hence why it needs to be so big and beefy to handle all that pressure on the belt.

The powerlifting belt is an effective tool – if you are serious about lifting heavy, you will want to have one, but will need to learn how to use it to properly harness its true potential.

Is an SBD belt worth the money?

There are many brands of belts out there. SBD is one of the more expensive and popular belts on the market and many elite lifters swear it helps them.

For most, it is overkill especially for a beginner, as you will most likely grow out of that first belt either to a smaller or bigger belt, depending on how your body responds to lifting and what is going to make you the strongest.

There are some things you must look for when considering a belt:

13mm thickness for most lifters is best. Lighter female lifters do better with a 10mm thick belt, as it fits them a bit easier.

2) For your first belt, we recommend going a bit bigger on size and going with a single or double prong over a lever until you find your ideal size and weight. Also, punching additional holes in the belt until you get to the right size may help (shoe repair shoes can do this for $2-5 and is much cheaper than a new belt).