| |
| |
|
Fitness Equipment Information |
|
|
|
Use of Lifting Belts During Strength Training Workouts
The decision of whether to use a lifting belt during exercise should be guided by the following information: As mentioned in an earlier article on lower back pain, the deep stabilizing muscles of the lumbo-pelvic region (core) are suspected as having a "drum forming" effect - that is the muscles contract simultaneously in a reflex (no conscious thought required in people without back pain) action to help stabilize the low back and allow forces to be transferred from the lower body to the upper body and vice versa. This action also has the effect of compressing the abdominal contents - composed primarily of water and very little gas; thus the name of this phenomenon is the "fluid ball" effect. Water as a liquid is essentially incompressible, so you can see how the presence of an internal pressurized fluid "ball" will lend stability to the pelvis and spine and actually help generate torque in the lift. For example, as you descend into a heavy squat, the muscles of the core and diaphragm begin to contract and generate tension on the fluid ball. As you squat deeper and your knees and hips flex more and more, the pelvis starts to tip forward and the large erector spinea muscles begin to lose their strength advantage due to a decreased muscle length. It is logical then to assume that the fluid ball acts as a "block" to prevent excessive spinal flexion and possible compressive damage to the intervertebral ligaments and discs. Lifting belts have been demonstrated to have a similar effect of passively increasing intra-abdominal pressure simply by the mechanics of their operation. However, when a lifting belt is used on a consistent basis, it is proposed that the inner stabilizing muscles and deep abdominals are relieved of much of their duty and fail to get stimulated sufficiently. Therefore, even though you may be performing a very functional movement like a squat, you are receiving a source of external stabilization likened to that provided by machine exercise. The risk of using a lifting belt for all lifts is that the core muscles are not trained sufficiently and in the correct motor sequence, so if you attempt a heavy lift without a lifting belt, there may be an increased chance of injuring your back. The best advice then is if you are going to use a lifting belt, use it only when you attempt maximal (1RM) lifts and only when the spine is directly targeted like in a squat. Perform submaximal lifts without a belt to ensure sufficient training of the deep stabilizers of the spine. (It should be kept in mind however that some world class Olympic-style weightlifters never use weightlifting belts). So if your goal is to wear a lifting belt on the field or track or even while performing regular everyday tasks, then use a belt for all your lifts. If however you want "true" functional strength and power, train your own "internal weight lifting belt" and discard the "fake" one. David Petersen is a Personal Trainer/Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and the owner and founder of B.O.S.S. Fitness Inc. based in Oldsmar, Florida. More articles and information can be found at http://www.bossfitness.com NOTE: You're free to republish this article on your website, in your newsletter, in your e-book or in other publications provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this note, author information and all LIVE website links as above.
MORE RESOURCES:
Fitness-Equipment - Google News |
|
|
|
RELATED ARTICLES
Daily Treadmill Workouts are a Great Way to Keep in Shape Serious runners and walkers eventually turn to treadmill workouts so that they can exercise safely and conveniently at any time of day or night in their own homes. Fitness experts agree that one of the best ways to get in shape and stay that way is by running or walking every day, but the reality is that it isn't always safe or practical to do so on "the open road. Why Exercise Balls Are The Wonder Exercise Equipment Exercise balls are the latest invention in exercise equipments. These balls catch every one's fancy because of their shape and attractive colors. Horizon Treadmills - Keeping Your Treadmill in Shape! Horizon treadmills are well built and sturdy, and their durability is mentioned positively in Horizon treadmills ratings. It is inevitable, however, that any piece of fitness equipment will require maintenance at some point or another. Choosing an Elliptical Cross Trainer Elliptical cross trainers have been around for several years and their popularity grows continually. Elliptical cross trainers give you an impact-free, complete workout that seems less stressful than with other types of fitness equipment. Landice Treadmills - A Quick Review of the Landice Treadmill If you're looking to buy a high end home treadmill (or a commercial grade treadmill) chances are you've heard the name 'Landice' thrown about quite a bit.That may leave you wondering 'Should I invest in a Landice treadmill?' Here's a quick review of Landice treadmills to help you decide. The Technology Behind Elliptical Cross Trainers Creates Unique Advantages and Benefits The Technology Behind Elliptical Cross Trainers Creates Unique Advantages and Benefits The word elliptical means shaped like an oval. In the world of fitness and exercise, elliptical technology is a relatively new, innovative equipment design that draws on a smooth, elliptical movement to provide a low impact form of weight bearing exercise that is fun and easy to learn. Get A Gym Exercise Equipment Now Now is a good season for the health conscious to check up on the latest in gym exercise equipment. A wide variety of gym exercise equipment is available in the market each designed to tone the specific part of the body. Features of Keys Treadmills Keys treadmills have managed to build an impressive product range in the short time that they have been available on the market. They boast some impressive features however the remarkable thing about keys treadmills is the excellent warranties that they have to offer. Treadmill Exercise - 3 More Benefits of Treadmill Workouts Chances are that you already know your treadmill can help you lose weight, stay fit, and protect you from the ravages of age related diseases like diabetes and heart disease.But here are 3 MORE benefits of treadmill exercise you might NOT know!#1 Walking on A Treadmill Helps Alleviate DepressionA recent study at Duke University found that even as little as eight minutes on a treadmill can help to dramatically, although temporarily, reduce symptoms of depression. Discount Treadmill: 3 Ways To Save When Buying A Treadmill Most people looking to buy a treadmill are interested in getting a discount. We all want to save money and get a higher quality product right?So where can you go to find huge discounts on brand name treadmills? There are several legitimate ways to get a discount treadmill which I'll outline in this article. Treadmills Prove Health Concerns Are No Longer An Excuse Not To Exercise Walking has long been praised for its health benefits. It is a simple, easy workout that provides great results. Why Buy A Treadmill? Buying a home treadmill? Treadmills are still the most popular choice among exercise equipment buyers today. Why do many people invest in a home treadmill? Here are the major benefits of buying your own home treadmill:Burn more calories:Treadmills burn more calories per hour than any other exercise machine. How to Shop for a Treadmill Treadmills have become the hottest home exercise choice. According to the National Sporting Goods Association, treadmill sales have exceeded those of all other home exercise equipment. Find the Best Home Tanning Bed Package Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could find a cheap used tanning bed for your home. Have you ever wondered how to buy tanning beds and what would be the best home tanning bed package? Well you've come to the right place. Star Trac TR4500HR Treadmill - A Review When you're searching for a treadmill for your home or club, you'll find Star Trac treadmills at the top of your shopping list, and for good reason. StarTrac has garnered a reputation for quality and superior machines since their appearance on the treadmill scene in the 70's, and has become sort of the Cadillac of treadmills. Deciding on a Fitness Center: Tips for Choosing Joining one of the many fitness centers in your area can have a lot of benefits, but can also be a big expense. Since most centers ask you to sign contracts that can be difficult to cancel, make sure that joining a fitness center is for you and that you are happy with the one you choose, before signing on the dotted line. Epic t60 treadmill The Epic T60 Treadmill - Putting New Limits On EconomyThe Epic T60 Treadmill is made exclusively for Costco, the discount retailer. It sports useful and desirable features for the home gym and for general fitness training, yet is often discounted for far less than $1000. What to Look for When Buying a Home Gym When buying a home gym there are several things you will want to educate yourself on before making a final purchase in order to ensure you buy the best home gym for you and your family. While there are many things you will need to consider, your budget, goals, space, and personal needs are some of the most important topics to keep in mind. Proform XP 590s Treadmill The Proform XP 590s Treadmill - Storage Is XPedientThe Proform XP 590s treadmill is one of the XP series treadmills produced exclusively by Proform for Sears.Proform XP 590s treadmills, along with the 542e, 542s and XP 800VF, are designed for use in the home gym and are suitable for use in fitness, training and weight loss programs. Fitness Goals For Dummies Health-buffs that have been using exercise equipments are surely no neophytes on this matter. But newbies on exercise equipment won't have a hard time on knowing which to use.
|
| home | site map |
| © 2006 |
