While weight lifting belts for women are essentially the same as those for men, the manufacturers make these in smaller sizes. This buyer's guide will help you choose the optimal one for your needs:
What To Consider When Choosing a Weight Lifting Belt for Women
When shopping for a women’s weight lifting belt, size is not the only factor to consider. Below we have identified some others that come into play:
Material
Powerlifting belts for women come in a variety of materials. However, nylon and leather are the two most popular choices.
Nylon belts are softer and more comfortable to wear. They are easier to fasten and provide adequate support to engage your core without being too bulky. Plus, they are also cheaper.
Leather belts, on the other hand, are more durable and long-lasting. The strong material can easily withstand excessive pressure applied to it as you lift heavy weights. Since these belts contain multiple layers of finished leather, they tend to provide more rigidity for the torso.
Your choice of material depends upon your intended use, budget, and comfort. Do note that if you are getting a weight lifting belt to enroll in competitions, you should steer away from nylon ones because they are completely banned.
Thickness
With nylon belts, thickness is not a major issue because they are quite flexible as is. With leather belts, however, checking the thickness is crucial because it has a direct impact on the belt's performance, and in turn yours.
You can find women's weight lifting belts in 10mm and 13 mm thickness. The 10mm ones are useful for women who are still exploring the powerlifting world. They are more comfortable to wear and quicker to break in. The lesser thickness allows them to quickly conform to your body's curves.
The 13mm belts, on the other hand, are firmer and uncomfortable to wear before it’s broken in. Don't expect this to change quickly because they take a lot of time to break in. On the plus side, the extra thickness enables you to lift heavier and faster. That's why 13mm is the preferred thickness for advanced powerlifters.
Fastener system
There is nothing more injury-inducing than a weight lifting belt becoming undone in the middle of a lift. That's why it's important to get a belt with a secure fastening system.
You'll come across belts that offer a Velcro closer. But they can easily become undone when you lift heavier weights. Look for a model that incorporates a buckle closure into its design. Such belts come with holes so you can easily customize the fit according to your waistline. Plus they fasten very securely.
How To Make the Most of Your Weight Lifting Belt
If you want to maximize your weight lifting potential, you should focus on how you are wearing your belt. Here are some helpful pointers:
- A weight lifting belt is usually worn right under the ribs. It is best to keep the lower border just above the belly button for optimal spinal support.
- Many athletes choose to wear it lower for improved comfort. But this position does not provide maximum back support.
- When you wrap the belt around yourself, it should come in full contact with the front torso, sides, and back.
- You should inhale slightly before tightening the belt. It should be tight but not uncomfortable. Your stomach needs some space to expand for you to create brace and tension.
- Start breathing after fastening the belt. It helps you expand and become comfortable inside it.
- A loosely worn belt is useless, but one that is worn too tightly also does more harm than good. Make sure that you fasten it snugly enough to not move out of place as you lift weights.
- Once the belt is secure, check how it feels. If you experience any pinching or discomfort, chances are the belt is in the wrong position.
