Regular weightlifting comes with hundreds of benefits, such as muscle gain, enhanced strength and bolstered bones. Nonetheless, like everything else that is beneficial, it also carries injury risks, especially for people who lift heavy loads. Now, as a seasoned weightlifter, I know that choosing the right lifting bet for my workouts is very important for injury prevention and long term success. Although as a beginner, you can use good form to lift small weights, as the weight increases, it is very essential to protect your lower back as you enhance pressure on your abs. And that is where weightlifting
belts come in handy.
If used properly they can be a surefire way to those tight muscles or the six-pack you have been dreaming off. To help you choose the right belt for your needs, I have combed through thousands of belt models and designs (all tried and tested by experts) to bring out the top ones in the market. These 3 best lifting belts for the home gym will not only help you smash through your limits without straining your back but also workout intelligently. If you find that these 3 belts don’t suit your needs, there are other women’s health and fitness resources available. Each and every one of us is different so it’s okay if something doesn’t work the first time. Anyhow, here are my picks:
- Dark Iron Fitness Genuine Leather
Made from genuine leather, Dark Iron’s Genuine Leather Pro lifting belt is one of the best weightlifting belts available right now. There is no doubt about that. The handy belt comes with 4 layers of hard stitching for durability and toughness during weightlifting and strength training. Unlike other belts that can easily taper down, this belt is 4 inches thick which means protection to the entire core making it ideal even for pushing maximum loads.
The fastening mechanism features a heavy duty buckling system that comes with 11 holes (double) for precision fit. It also has an adjustable non-slip feature which means you don’t have to worry about it slipping while lifting heavy loads.
PROS
- Lifetime warranty
- Can support up to 600 pounds
- Hard wearing leather construction
- 4 layers of double stitching
- The genuine leather makes it flexible and soft
- High quality double buckling system
- 4 inches of uniform thickness
CONS
- Can be a bit rigid for some people
- The Harbinger 284
While the 4 inch padded leather belt is one of the most affordable lifting belts available today, it offers unrivalled support with a specially designed contour for an enhanced fit. It is also double stitched for extra durability and is 4 inches wide across board for maximum support. In addition, it has an internal board backing feature for enhanced lower back security as well as support. Its double buckle system makes sure it gives users an amazing ergonomic fit every time and that it stays when it needs to be throughout the workout regardless of how intense the lifting is. Often a choice as women’s lifting belt.
Other notable features include:
- 90-day warranty
- Constructed from real leather
- Designed with Suede lining for additional support and comfort
- Specially designed contour for an ergonomic fit
PROS
- Constructed from real hard
leather - Contour design
- Suede linin for comfort
- 4 inches wide for maximum support
- Lightweight foam core
CONS
- The sizing may be a little bit small for some
- The RDX Gym Neoprene Double Belt
Made from high quality black Nylon, this belt is specially designed to flexibly support the abdomen. The metal clasp and the secure Velcro play also play very important roles in adding stability and strength to the core, abdomen and back. Also, its state of the art RDX logo, makes the good looking neoprene weightlifting belt ideal for beginners as well as season fitness enthusiasts at all levels.
Notable features include:
- A durable and stainless steel slide buckle
- 5 inches thick for maximum lower back support
- Made from high quality nylon for an ergonomic fit
- Adjustable to various wait sizes
PROS
- The edges are double stitched for durability
- Has a moisture wicking feature which helps reduce odor
- 5 inches wide for maximum support
CONS
- Has issues with edge curling
Bonus Pick
I did not feel right concluding without mentioning the Olypmpiada Low profile belt. So let’s add it into the mix as a bonus.
Olympiada Low Profile Belt
Designed to last for years, this belt is perfect for weightlifters who want to enhance their abdominal strength while still protecting their lower back. Made from secure nylon and a foam internal padding, the belt offers flexible support and an ergonomic fit. It also comes with a torque ring for extra security and hip, abdominal and lumbar stability. The
rounded edges also ensure it will never dig or pinch you.
Final Thoughts
As mentioned earlier, weightlifting belts mainly act as a wall for your abdomen muscles so as to enhance your form for general exercises and prevent back injuries. By working against the abs, it can support the lower lumbar effectively, resulting in more force transmission from the hips, a more rigid torso and enhanced stability for lifting overhead. Long Story Short: When used appropriately, these 3 best lifting belts for the home gym will not just do the job, but do it properly. A more intense burn in your abdomen, a better six-pack and better core workouts.