If there are two items that should be in every athlete's gym bag before they step foot in a weight room, they are weightlifting shoes and a weightlifting belt. The weightlifting belt plays a very important role in stability, safety, and support for the lifter who wants to get in better shape. Aside from lower back support, it also offers support for the entire core while you're training.
This SBD Belt review will cover a belt that is worn by many powerlifters who train in the barbell squat, bench press, and deadlift as well as strongmen before their events. It isn't just for them, though. All fitness enthusiasts can benefit from having a dependable belt for lifting workouts. The SBD Powerlifting Belt could be a great choice, but you don't have to worry about doing research since we've done it for you.
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Our Other Favorite Lever Belt Options
A Quick Look at SBD 13mm Lever Belt
SPECS
- Size options: XS-5XL
- Width: 10cm
- Thickness: 13mm
- Material: Leather exterior with suede interior
- Closure: Lever
SBD stands for Squat, Bench, Deadlift, and they are recognized as one of the more popular equipment brands in strength sports. Several competitors rely on them for their accessories. The SBD Powerlifting Belt is a lever belt, which is different from traditional buckle belts or velcro belts. The belt is adjusted and tightened by using the lever that is on the front to lock it into place. This actually makes it easier to adjust than having to undo the buckle, change the length, then try to force the stems of the buckle back through the holes before tucking in the remaining length into a loop.
The velcro strap belts may be slightly easier to apply, but there is a greater chance that they will come undone while you're lifting, whereas the SBD Belt will stay in place until you pull the lever to disconnect it. That assurance can help you focus on the next set and execute reps while staying tight and safe throughout the set.
What We Like
- Lever makes it easier to adjust tightness of the belt
- Leather exterior makes it easier to clean
- Wide variety of sizes to benefit most trainees
- Approved or compliant with multiple lifting organizations
- Same width and thickness throughout entire belt
What We Don't Like
- Extra care is needed to prevent damage to the lever buckle
- Black is the only color available
Width
Many traditional belts have a larger back and sides with a thinner front for the buckle. The SBD Belt has the same width all the way around it, which helps maximize support and comfort all the way around the torso. It can also help improve the lifter's ability to brace the core. The 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) throughout the length of the belt can make it more comfortable than others, as well.
Material
The belt is made of English hide and covered with an exterior leather that gives it a more appealing look, but it will require black shoe polish to maintain that look. More importantly, leather is also very strong, which means it will hold up for many workouts to come.
The red suede interior of the belt will make it feel more comfortable on the body. It could be worn over a shirt or singlet and it won't damage the fabric of the clothing. It can also be worn on bare skin without concern of rashes or skin irritation.
Closure
The lever-prong hybrid buckle of the belt is the most important feature of the SBD Belt. The lever is made of aluminum and is easy to operate. Once the desired tightness of the belt is reached, the prongs are placed inside the corresponding holes, the lever is simply fastened together, and you'll be ready to go for the upcoming set. The only concern to be aware of is that the overhang of the belt goes underneath the belt instead of over it. Caution should be taken to avoid pinched skin.
A simple flick of the lever opens the belt, and it's ready to be removed. SBD advises taking extra care because the lever could be damaged if the belt is tossed or dropped onto the floor or ground.
Benefits of SBD Powerlifting Belt
Protect Your Back
The SBD Belt, like all weightlifting belts, is meant to help provide support and protection for your lower back while you're lifting weights. The SBD Belt has been tested and used to support lifters working with over 1,000 pounds in weight. It's also meant to provide comfort. So, whether you intend to set a new personal record or train for longer periods of time, the belt will provide the support your lower back needs to minimize the risk of injury.
Ab Muscle Assistance
Wearing a belt like the SBD Belt can help lifters engage or tighten their abs so they're prepared to withstand the load of the weight they are about to lift. Having the belt to press the abs against can be beneficial when lifting heavier weights on exercises such as the squat or overhead press.
One mistake people make is they use a belt as a way to help shrink the waistline by sucking in their stomachs and tightening the belt as tight as possible. Not only is this not very beneficial, but it can also actually do more damage to your midsection than it would help because the belt could cause bruising. Furthermore, it can lead to a decrease in tension, which would negatively affect training.
Performance
The SBD Belt can hold up under great loads, and it can be worn for longer sets. Putting it on takes seconds, and you only need as little as one second to disconnect the level. It may take some time to break into the desired comfort level, but once it is, it will last for a long time to come if it's properly taken care of. SBD reported that it was tested by world-class athletes, coaches, and even health professionals. Whether you're a beginner that is new to wearing belts or an advanced trainee who needs something reliable, this belt could be the solution.
Our Verdict
The SBD Powerlifting Belt isn't only for powerlifters. All fitness enthusiasts could invest in one and feel good about the purchase. It's durable, and dependable, and it can provide the necessary support all the way around the middle of the body. Whether you want this belt for back support, ab support, performance, or simply as a precaution to decrease the chances of future injuries, the SBD Belt would be a great choice.
Our Other Favorite Lever Belt Options
FAQs About SBD Powerlifting Belts
Is the SBD powerlifting belt worth it?
The SBD Powerlifting Belt is more expensive than most belts in the category, but it would be a long-term investment that could last for many years to come. If you want a quality belt that will last while minimizing the chances of getting hurt while training, then the SBD Belt would be worth placing an order for.
How long does an SBD belt take to break in?
It can take anywhere from 5-10 sessions to break the SBD Belt into your desired level of comfort. The belt is made of English hide with leather, so it won't be easy to put on at first. One way to make it easier is to keep the belt secured to your size when you have it off. This also makes it easier for it to fit in your gym bag if you have one.
Is an SBD belt good for bodybuilding?
The SBD Belt would be a great choice for all fitness enthusiasts who train with weights regularly. It would help bodybuilders who want to train heavy because it can protect the lower back while keeping the core engaged, which can help the development of both muscle groups. However, it should not be used as a corset or tool to help reduce the size of a waist. Having it too tight can actually be a risk instead of a service.