10-31-2018, 11:22 AM
(10-31-2018, 09:50 AM)Senor_Taylor Wrote: Opinions on belts? I feel like my form for deadlifts is decent, but I've always had back problems (working very hard to improve this). My back gives out well before my legs do, so basically I stop when I know my back can't handle it (Even with proper form). I never squatted or deadlifted without a belt before college, but stopped using one once outside of the weight room atmosphere. I don't really care about looking like a chode, but I want to make sure I'm keeping my back supported now that I'm back in the 300lb zone. A lot of modern literature seems to point out that it's not really about protecting your back, and more about just boosting your max.
What are y'alls thoughts?
Also, I've been working out before work as opposed to after work for a few months and I love it. I've been so consistent and my gains have been very good.
Belts do not protect your back. The idea that they do will get you REALLY hurt.
Belts can help you increase intra-abdominal pressure when your core muscles are contracted. This pressure is what supports your back, but if you don't have the strength/training/skill to properly brace, then it wont' do jack shit. Can't just put on a belt and go "welp, now I don't have to worry about form, I can just yank it off the ground."
I don't belt on a deadlift or squat until I'm approaching 80-90% of my max, or going for a new max. To point, I haven't worn a belt at all since I did the 1200# club at UREC.
If your back "gives out" before your legs do then you need to strengthen your back and your core, and make sure your form is top. Face pulls, bent rows, GHD situps. Romanian deadlifts, pause-at-an-inch deadlifts, reverse flys and if your back really just does suck, maybe try pulling sumo for a while while you work on your back.
If you're reaching for your belt for below, say, 80% of your 1RM, IN MY HUMBLE OPINION then you're just band-aiding deficiencies, and only putting yourself on the slow car of the Gainz Train.
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