The Effects of a Training Belt on Performance and Perceptual Outcomes during Explosive Deadlift Exercise Direct Original Research
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Keywords
deadlift, stability, barbell velocity
Abstract
Introduction: Training belts are commonly used by competitive and recreational lifters during heavy-load resistance exercise for support. While training belts have been reported to increase intra-abdominal pressure and spine stabilization, it is less clear if training belts influence performance and perceptual measures during explosive deadlift exercise at loads commonly used for hypertrophy training. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a training belt on perceptual and performance measures during explosive dead-lift exercise.
Methods: Resistance-trained individuals participated in a crossover counterbalanced study design with 3 conditions: 1) No TB (NB), 2) Sham belt (SHAM; loose belt), 3) Tight training-belt (TB). Under each condition, participants completed 3 sets of explosive deadlift exercise at 70% 1-RM. Barbell velocity was monitored for each repetitions using a linear position transducer. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE), confidence, and feelings stability were assessed after each set using visual analog scales. Each trial was separated by 48 hours.
Results: Findings show that barbell velocity was significantly higher during the TB condition versus NB (p=0.025) and SHAM (p=0.037). RPE was lower during the TB condition compared to NB (p=0.016). Feelings of confidence (p=0.005) and stability (p=0.007) were higher with the TB condition versus NB.
Conclusions: Results suggest that tight training belts provide ergogenic effects towards explosive deadlift performance at submaximal loads and provide improved perceptions of stability and confidence.
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