Topic: weightlifting belts

[Dustin Oranchuk]

hey everyone, i rarely use a weightlifting belt, except for clean and jerks from 90-100% and for C+J in competitions as my back is very strong.  But i would really like to find a classic lether weightlifting belt, like the ones the Russians and Bulgarians of the 70s-80s and some even now. 

The problem is i cant seem to find many of these types on-line or in stores.

So what type of belt do you prefer and where can i get what I'm looking for?

Thanks

[Mike Wittmer]

You should be able to find someone who could make one for you.  Maybe some craft person that works with leather.  I had some custom made in the '70s.  Check the powerlifting outfits, I know they used to make belts to custom specs.

I am wondering, however, why you use the belt for your heavier C&Js only.

[Mike Wittmer]

Below is a link to a powerlifting forum.  You might be able to get some help there.

http://www.fortified-iron.com/forum/index.php?showforum=8

[Dustin Oranchuk]

i only use a belt for my very heavy C+J attempts because i am able to keep a straight back with all lighter weights but a belt seems to help me when i get to weights that i rarely attempt.

I also feel that squats are controlled enough that i don't need a belt, and snatch i feel like the less equipment you have the faster you can move.

And i think using a belt to much will make it harder to develop core strength and flexibility.



Thanks for your help.

[Dave Chiu]

I have really been impressed by the Cardillo O-lift belt.

Nice supple leather and dbl-prong buckle. 

Wish it had an ab guard flap.  Kind of pricey, but it can be for the lack of other cmparable belts on the market.

If you have one made, make sure the craftsman can tell you why to use LATIGO, or justify what would be better.