# Wear a lifting belt for strength increase Lifting belts do not protect your lower back, contrary to what many lifters think. However, lifting belts allow you to generate more force because, as you inhale, your midsection pushes out against the belt, increasing the amount of pressure. When wearing a lifting belt, breathe through your nose and focus on maintaining a hollow position, so that your midsection pushes against the belt. You may want to wear it as soon as the warm up lift, since it requires you to perform with a different technique than without. --- ## 📚 References - [Complete Guide to Lifting Belts (& Why I Wear Mine So High)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D9lRT3FsTo)