LIFTING BELTS

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This journal article may be of interest to some of you.

Miyamoto K et al Effects of abdominal belts on intra-abdominal pressure,

intra-muscular pressure in the erector spinae muscles and myoelectrical

activities of trunk muscles. Clin Biomech 1999 Feb; 14 (2):79-87

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of abdominal belts on lifting performance,

muscle activation, intraabdominal pressure and intra-muscular pressure of the

erector spinae muscles.

DESIGN: Simultaneous measurement of intra-abdominal pressure, intra-muscular

pressure of the erector spinae muscles was performed during the Valsalva

maneuver and some isometric lift exertions.

BACKGROUND: While several hypotheses have been suggested regarding the

biomechanics of belts and performance has been found to increase when lifting

with belts, very little is known about the modulating effects on trunk

stiffness. At present, there is no reason to believe that spine tolerance to

loads increases with belts. .....

RESULTS: Intramuscular pressure of the erector spinae muscles increased

significantly by wearing the abdominal belt during Valsalva maneuvers and

during maximum isometric lifting exertions, while maximum isometric lifting

capacity and peak intra-abdominal pressure were not affected. Integrated EMG

of rectus abdominis increased significantly by wearing the abdominal belt

during Valsalva maneuvers (after full inspiration) and during isometric leg

lifting.

CONCLUSIONS: Wearing abdominal belts raises intramuscular pressure of the

erector spinae muscles and appears to stiffen the trunk. Assuming that

increased intramuscular pressure of the erector spinae muscles stabilizes the

lumbar spine, wearing abdominal belts may contribute to the stabilization

during lifting exertions

Dr Mel C Siff

Denver, USA

mcsiff@...

supertraining