use of waist belt?

[a1951zorro]

I have been getting some low back pain since I started doing behind the back shrugs on the smith machine-(feel like Im making some progress with my traps doing these)
I see people using those leather waist belts when doing certain lifts- but I heard years ago these will make your back weaker-

anyone??
thanks

 

[eroc613]

I don't think they make it weaker. It's just to keep everything tight and in place. Your lower back will get weak if you don't work it.

 

[jm425]

Belts are good for compound exercises that stress the lower back IF you are either lifting very heavy and doing low reps or if you already have chronic lower back pain. I myself have fucked up my lower back years ago, so I find myself using a belt for certain compound exercises, however, I still do heavy deads and back extensions.

 

[The Booger]

I very rarely use one. On heavy weights (90%+ max) I do. Other than that, nope. I can keep great form up until then, and then it starts getting a little "off".

I've worked hard to get my lower back up. Since I did, compound exercises have gotten a lot easier.

 

[ranger13]

I always use a weight belt, lite or heavy days. Been using the same leather belt for years, not real bulky, thin in the back. Gives you great support! Besides you have only one back and it doesn't take much to throw it out, just twistin the wrong way. Then what? Your freakin screwed, can't lift, can't bend over, can't do crap. It'll save your back when you get older.

 

[doug1]

i wouldn't do the exercise you spoke of ever again. i personally dont do direct trap work like shrugs and mine are fine. side laterals and upright rows will stimulate your traps and not screw up your back. dont think your some kind of warrior by continuing this exercise, your back will rebel and as u lie in bed having trouble sleeping due to the pain you will feel more like a moron than a warrior, just my 2 cc's

 

[a1951zorro]

waist belt

yeah
I used to do upright rows but had elbow surgery and hasn't been the same since-
tried using the belt and doing more reps /lower wt - will see, but I think it was using the heavier wt that was making the traps respond