Lifting Belts: Mechanisms and Benefits

Lifting belts enhance performance by increasing intra-abdominal pressure during lifts. Studies show that wearing a belt raises intra-abdominal pressure, potentially aiding in force production without compromising core muscle engagement. Belts do not significantly alter muscle activity, and research indicates that they may not reduce the risk of low back injury. While improving lifting performance to some extent, the benefits of using a belt vary depending on the individual, movement, and other factors.