Belt or no belt for squats?

[DlackBick]

I've never done squats with a belt before, will i benefit much more if i use one? Or should i continue doing them beltless? Some people say belt weakens the core, others say it strengthens it. I'm doing 5x5 squats and i'm pretty happy with strength gains for now. I just wanna hear your suggestions, thanks.

[hammerfelt]

If 5x5 keep doing belt-less. The only reason to put a belt on is to lift more weight. If you are lifting the weight you do not need it.

I started using a belt more frequently and it became a physical or mental need, a crutch, an excuse not to lift heavy if I forgot it. Went back to belt-less.

[DlackBick]

If 5x5 keep doing belt-less. The only reason to put a belt on is to lift more weight. If you are lifting the weight you do not need it.

I started using a belt more frequently and it became a physical or mental need, a crutch, an excuse not to lift heavy if I forgot it. Went back to belt-less.

hmmm, i see, but isn't it better to lift more weight?

[Get-n-fit]

It depends on if you know how to use a belt. It should be strapped on as tight as possible and used to help hold you intramuscular pressure. Inhale, push through your pelvic base and against the belt. The belt is there to give you something to push against, not to correct bad form at heavy weights.

[hammerfelt]

You mention 5x5, but not exactly what you are doing. In these cases I default to beginner mode 5x5 add 5lbs a workout 3 days a week. Example - http://stronglifts.com/5x5/

You do not need a belt for that.



Provide detailed information if you want a better answer.

[kanis999]

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showth...+straight+dope

[jarhead54]

belt

[Blainex]

http://www.strengtheory.com/the-belt-bible/

[k9pit]

Ride it out as long as you can without it. I would consider one once you can squat at LEAST 1.5BW. Even then, if you have little interest at that point, ride it out as long as you can.

If you do get a belt, get a good (well reviewed) one. Not a cheap Valero velcro one.

[grouchyjarhead]

I typically do my warm-up sets without a belt and then use a belt for my work sets.

[DlackBick]

I'll continue doing it beltless i think, because i still make progress. Thanks everyone for opinions and that belt thread link!

[loganhart]

Both.

Sometimes I'll toss the belt on when going for PRs or hitting heavy single digit reps.