How to Measure Your Custom Weightlifting Belt Size

Not sure how to measure your custom weightlifting belt size? Our guide walks you through the process step by step. Find the right fit for your belt and optimise your lifting performance.

Weightlifting belts are an essential accessory for serious lifters. They provide critical support to your lower back, helping you maintain proper form during heavy lifts. But to truly reap the benefits of a weightlifting belt, it's crucial to find the perfect fit. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of measuring for a weightlifting belt to ensure a comfortable, secure, and effective fit.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Belt

Before you start measuring, it's important to choose the right type of weightlifting belt. There are two main types:

Weightlifting belts: These belts are 4" wide in the back and taper to 2.5" width in the front. They offer a comfortable fit, allowing for a greater range of motion during lifts.

Powerlifting belts: These belts are the same width all around, typically 4" but 3" is also available. They provide maximum support and are ideal for those focusing on powerlifting exercises like squats and deadlifts.

Step 2: Find Your Natural Waist

To get an accurate measurement, you need to locate your natural waist. This is the narrowest part of your midsection, typically located just above your belly button. Stand up straight and use your fingers to find the spot where your sides bend when you lean to one side. This is your natural waist.

Step 3: Measure Your Waist Circumference

Using a flexible measuring tape, measure the circumference of your waist at the natural waistline. Make sure the tape is level and snug, but not too tight. Record this measurement in inches.

Step 4: Refer to the Belt Size Chart

Most weightlifting belt manufacturers provide a size chart based on your waist measurement. Use your waist circumference to determine the appropriate belt size. For weightlifting belts and prong powerlifting belts you'd want to be around the centre point of the size range. For a lever powerlifting belt it's better to be around 3/4 the way along the holes - certainly no less than half way. This is because the excess on a lever belt can be uncomfortable if it's really long.

For example our weightlifting belts have this size chart:

- Small: 22" - 31" (56cm - 69cm)
- Medium: 26" - 35" (66cm - 89cm)
- Large: 30" - 39" (76cm - 99cm)
- XL: 34" - 43" (86cm - 109cm)
- 2XL: 36" - 45" (91cm - 114cm)
- 3XL: 38" - 47" (96cm - 119cm)
- 4XL: 40″ – 49″ (101cm - 124cm)
- 5XL: 42″ – 51″ (106cm - 129cm)
- 6XL: 44" - 53" (111cm - 134cm)
- 7XL: 46" - 55" (116cm - 139cm)

If you're measuring in at 32" we would recommend going for a medium. You'll have 3" to go up should you gain weight and 6" should you lose weight.

Step 5: Consider Your Clothing

Keep in mind that you'll be wearing your weightlifting belt over your workout clothes. If you typically wear thick or layered clothing during your workouts, add an inch to your waist measurement to account for the extra bulk.

Step 6: Test the Fit

Once you've received your weightlifting belt, it's important to test the fit. Put on your workout clothes and wrap the belt around your waist. It should be snug but not uncomfortably tight. You should be able to fit one or two fingers between the belt and your body. A common misconception is to suck your stomach in and tighten as much as possible. You need to brace against the belt and breathing in when tightening the belt will stop you from doing this.

Conclusion

Measuring for a weightlifting belt is a simple process, but it's crucial for maximising your lifting performance and avoiding injury. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your weightlifting belt. Remember, a well-fitted belt is an investment in your safety and success as a lifter. Happy lifting!