back support

[DuckMan]

I'm 5'11'' and waeigh 161 lbs. My question is that should I be using a back support when i squat? My max squat right now is 300. Some people say i shouldn't but others say it is a must for squats.

 

[phenom]

I personally don't use them at all but I don't squat much and when I do I don't go too heavy. I've heard and I believe that back supports actually hinder your lower back from gaining strength while working out. I think you should only use it for squatting a ton of weight. Other than that I wouldn't use it.

 

[DJBen]

Some say do, some say dont.

Do whatever you want, but I dont use 'em. I wont use them until my squats get up to the 500lbs mark. I'll never bother with knee straps either.

 

[true|hockey]

the belt helps it so you dont use your stomach/ back. so unless you want to risk a hernia , don't use a belt. otherwise I suggest using it for squats/cleans/ etc

 

[semag]

Back support really messes with your core. Leaves it weak and more prone to getting injured doing squats.

Unless you're form is shyt, and you don't have a spotter, and your lower back isn't all wacked out, don't use a belt at all.

 

[xyzzy]

Don't use a belt, it just messes with your stabalizer muscles and gets you to be lazy with your form.

Geez, man, be happy with what you lift; what you're lifting now is great. Most people want to keep lifting more and more, but taking shortcuts is not the way to do it. It will come a little more slowly, but you'll be a lot stronger and better for you in the long run.

 

[DuckMan]

thanks, I just wanted to know if I was putting myself at a big risk without one.