While working out or attempting to lift heavy objects, weight lifting belts are worn around the midriff area. A weight lifting belt can be worn by professional movers, warehouse employees who move stock from one location to another, and just about anyone who wants to reduce stress on the lower back.
Weight lifting belts serve primarily two purposes. To begin with, weight belts are intended to relieve some of the pressure that is placed on the muscles and spinal column in the lower back when lifting heavy objects. Because the weight belt helps to move the muscles in the abdominal cavity closer together, this is possible. This helps to provide additional support, making it much more difficult to overwork and potentially strain muscles or discs in the lower back.
At the same time, weight lifting belts aid in limiting back movement in relation to the rib cage. Weight lifting belts make it more difficult to turn in ways that could cause undue stress on the muscles of the back and sides, as well as strain on the muscles of the upper chest area, by limiting the degree of movement. While many people associate the use of weight lifting belts with back protection, the truth is that the devices can protect the entire upper torso’s musculature.
Weight lifting belts are made up of high-quality fiber blend shells with plenty of padding. The belts can be fastened with Velcro or traditional belt loops and straps. Weight lifting belts are available in a variety of prices, ranging from the relatively inexpensive models that are ideal for casual use to the very expensive types that are commonly used by people who lift weights as part of a bodybuilding program. Weight lifting belts can be found in a variety of places, including sporting goods stores and hardware stores.