The use of a lumbar belt often raises questions among athletes, particularly regarding the possibility of training and running with it. In this article we will address this question in detail and give some tips to better understand whether or not you can do sports with a lumbar belt.
What is a lumbar belt and what is it for?
A lumbar belt is a medical device designed to support and protect the lumbar region of the back. It is generally used to prevent or relieve pain caused by back problems such as herniated discs, lower back pain or sprains. Worn around the waist, it helps maintain correct posture and reduce pressure on the muscles and joints of the lower back.
Can you train with a lumbar belt?
The answer to this question mainly depends on why you are wearing a lumbar belt. If you suffer from an acute or chronic back problem and your doctor has recommended that you wear a back brace , it is best to follow his or her advice and avoid exercises that could aggravate your condition.
However, in some cases it may be beneficial to use a lumbar belt during training. For example, when practicing strength sports like powerlifting, some people use a belt to increase their core and stabilize their back during heavy movements.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of training with a lumbar belt?
Benefits
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Better lumbar support: The lumbar belt can help support your back during exercises that use this area, reducing the risk of injury.
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Maintaining Correct Posture: Wearing a back brace can help you maintain good posture during training, which is essential for preventing back pain and problems.
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Recovery Aid: If you are recovering from a back injury, using a back brace can allow you to gradually return to your workouts without fear of worsening your condition.
Disadvantages
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Dependence: Exercising regularly with a back brace can be addictive and decrease the ability of your muscles to support your back without outside help.
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Restriction of movement: A lumbar belt can restrict your movements and prevent you from performing certain exercises correctly.
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Inappropriate use: Some people may be tempted to use a lumbar belt to lift loads that are too heavy for their level, which increases the risk of injury.
Can you run with a lumbar belt?
Running with a lumbar belt is generally not recommended, as it can lead to overuse of the back muscles and cause long-term problems. Additionally, since running is a sport requiring great freedom of movement, wearing a lumbar belt can limit your range of motion and harm your performance.
However, if you experience lower back pain while running, we recommend that you consult a doctor or physiotherapist to determine the cause of the problem and find suitable solutions, such as strengthening exercises or changes to your running habits.
Alternatives and advice to protect your back during sports
If you want to protect your back without using a lumbar belt, here are some tips:
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Perform core exercises: Core training is essential for strengthening the muscles that support your back and preventing pain and injury.
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Adopt correct posture: Learn to maintain good posture during your workouts and in everyday life, particularly by correcting hyperlordosis or kyphosis problems.
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Warm up and stretch: Before and after your workout, take the time to properly warm up and stretch your muscles to avoid tension and stiffness that can cause lower back pain.
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Wear the right shoes: Especially for running, choosing shoes that provide good support and cushioning can help prevent impact and strain on your back.
In conclusion, it is possible to do sports with a lumbar belt, but it depends on your physical condition and the advice of your doctor. If you decide to use a belt during your workouts, be careful not to overuse it and continue to strengthen your muscles to support your back independently.
