Breathing when lifting heavy, Lifting Belts & Performance

Breathing when lifting heavy, Lifting Belts & Performance⭕️

When lifting heavy weights, especially during exercises such as the squat and deadlifts, the diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles work together to increase the pressure within your abdomen.

This is commonly known as the ‘Valsalva maneuver’, which involves taking a deep breath and holding it while contracting your core muscles, which results in an increase in IAP (Intra-abdominal pressure).

But why do some lifters use belts?

The lifting belt acts as an external brace that helps to contain the IAP, and create a more ‘stable’ environment: this results in a greater feeling of security and reduced feeling of effort during the lift, which allows the lifters to move weights at faster speed.

“…But the belt doesn’t recruit your core muscles, and there certainly are some contraindications!”

Contrary to popular belief, the use of a lifting belt does not negatively affect the recruitment of your core muscles, and additionally, the use of a lifting belt does not have negative effects on hemodynamic variables such as blood pressure and heart rate either.

While the benefits are not associated with increases in strength, some modest, positive effects can be seen with its use. It’s not mandatory, but in case you find it beneficial, the use of a lifting belt can work great!

What do you think?