belts on dead lift?

[xeclipsex]

Hi fellas I have only been dead liftin for around 4-5 month now and never use a belt. I have read about how it will make your gut stick out if you don't use one because how hard you breath anyone heard that? I am 6'4" 230, so i really have to get low. I usually do 225x12, 315x10, 405x8, then 225xwhat ever to get a good pump. I tried a belt the other day and found it to be very constricting. Any thoughts?

[Squatman51]

if you learn how to use the belt and push your stomach out you will add some poundage to your deadlift...you want to be tight

[stocky121]

i find a belt restrict's me when deadlifting. But i'am not a power lifter

[RJstrong]

I use a belt on all heavy deadlift attempts... I like a snug fit not a tight fit... if you feel restricted try loosening the belt a notch.

[Doc.Sust]

dont become dependant on the belt, but learn how to use it right, and you will be able to do more heavy weights. it is like any piece of equipment once you llearn how to work with it it will help you and not constrict you IMO. it is good to train the dead without the belt to build up the transverse ab muscles, but when going for broke, you need the belt

[IBdmfkr]

Never used a belt, helps strengthen the core without one IMO. Concentrate more on form and breathing when not using a belt as you obviously will have less support.

[barbndr]

IMO the best thing is to use the belt at or over 90% of your max. Some people, especially old school powerlifters like myself never even used them. Gear (equipment not pharmacology) was not really available as it is today. My best lifts in the dead were done with a flimsy 4in wide leather belt that I only used for a contest and the week prior to a meet. With today's technology, especially the lever belts, even I have a hard time not using one. Just my 2 cents.