A specialized weightlifting belt used in powerlifting and strength training is called a lever belt, sometimes called a lever powerlifting belt. Its purpose is to provide the lifter’s core extra stability and support when performing large movements, such deadlifts and squats.
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A lever belt is usually worn around the waist of the lifter and is composed of premium leather or synthetic materials. Easy and secure tightening is made possible by the belt’s lever mechanism, which is situated at its front.
PROS AND CONS OF A LEVER BELT
Comparing the lever belt to other weightlifting belt types like prong or Velcro, there are a number of advantages. Lever belts provide the finest support and stability of all the powerlift belt types, enabling you to:
– Diminish the possibility of harm
– Boost power and efficiency
– It will be easier for you to lift with proper form.
The simplicity and ease of attaching the belt is the main benefit of a lever belt over a prong belt. Lever belts include a lever mechanism that makes it possible to precisely and quickly tighten and loosen the belt. The belt may be safely fastened in place at the ideal tension with a single flip of the lever. When compared to prong belts, this greatly simplifies and expedites the process of putting on and taking off the belt.
Prong belts, on the other hand, have a metal prong that must be put into one of the holes in order to attach the belt. Getting the belt to the right tension might take work! It might be difficult to unbuckle it, especially after a strenuous session, when you are breathing heavily.
It is not feasible to share a lever belt with your gym partner, which is its main drawback. To change the buckle’s position, you’ll need to utilize a screwdriver.
THE DIFFERENCE IN A 10MM POWERLIFTING BELT AND A 13MM BELT
A 13mm and a 10mm lever belt vary primarily in that the belt itself is thicker. In comparison to a 10mm lever belt, a 13mm lever belt is constructed thicker and more rigidly. For activities like powerlifting and heavy lifting, the increased thickness offers more stiffness and support. The increased rigidity contributes to improved stability.
A 10mm lever belt, on the other hand, is somewhat more comfortable and slimmer. For the majority of individuals, it is more appropriate since it still gives excellent support and stability but also more comfort and movement.
The decision between a 13mm and 10mm lever belt ultimately comes down to personal taste, the kind of lifting you do, and your specific requirements. Because it offers the most support, experienced powerlifters and those who specialize in the heaviest compound exercises typically choose the 13mm belt. However, a 10 mm belt is usually more appropriate since it offers more than adequate stability and support and is more pleasant for most body types to wear.
WHAT SETS IT APART FROM A CLASSIC WEIGHT LIFTING BELT?
What distinguishes prong belts from lever lifting belts if they function in the same manner?
The manner they are protected accounts for the majority of the differences. Lever belts feature a lever buckle, whereas prong lifting belts use a single or double prong clasp to fasten the belt around the waist. Apart from this, there are a few other minor variations that could influence your decision to select one over the other, like…
EASE OF USE
Since belts don’t have to be worn all the time, some lifters choose ones that are simple to put on and take off. Therefore, you may think about using a lever lifting belt if you’re searching for convenience of usage.
Lever buckles on belts make it simple to clasp and unfasten them with only one hand. as opposed to prong belts, which need to be tightly fastened with both hands. It’s not a huge problem; prong belts only mean a bit extra adjusting during strength exercise. However, for someone who is eager to get on to their next set.
ADJUSTMENT
Lever belts are simpler to put on and take off, but their adjustment capabilities may not be the finest. Because both belts may be tightened to your desired level of comfort, you can customize them to fit you perfectly. However, this is where they diverge…
When you wear a lever belt for the first time, it is adjusted, and that tightness is maintained for the duration of your use. This is because a screwdriver is required to change the tension. You next insert the lever into the hole that provides the desired fit! Although it is a pain, the lever may be unscrewed and adjusted as needed; it is not required to be fastened there permanently.
Conversely, prong belts are simple to use and may be readily adjusted to your desired tension each time. The buckle is simple to turn up or down a notch as necessary.
TIGHTNESS
Tightness is another minor distinction to take into account. In general, a weightlifting belt should be snug but not so snug as to make breathing difficult. Both prong and lever belts have adjustable tension, but lever is often tighter. This is due to the belt’s ability to lock in tension when adjusted, preventing it from slipping. Conversely, prong belts are often adjusted, which may affect how tight they are.
It’s not much of a difference, but if the belt fit is important to you, take it into account!
The cost
The last—and, for some, most crucial—thing to think about is your budget! Although prong belts and lever belts are equally strong and long-lasting, their designs may result in a minor price difference.