If you’ve been following my journey here at Three Storm Fitness, you know I’m a big fan of belt squats. They’re a fantastic way to train the lower body without the spinal loading that comes with traditional squats. But let me tell you, finding the right equipment to make belt squats comfortable and effective has been a bit of a quest. Enter the Spud Inc Hip Belt Squat Belt—the game-changer I didn’t know I needed.
The Problem with Traditional Dip Belts
When I first started incorporating belt squats into my routine, I was using my trusty Harbinger dip belt. Don’t get me wrong; it’s a solid piece of equipment for weighted dips and pull-ups. But when I tried loading it up for heavy belt squats, especially on my Black Widow Rack Platforms, things got… uncomfortable.
Once I hit around 135 pounds, the chain on the dip belt started digging into my hips and thighs. It wasn’t just mildly annoying—it was downright painful. My client Brad can attest to this (sorry, Brad!). The discomfort was a clear sign that I needed a belt designed specifically for heavy belt squats.
Discovering the Spud Inc Hip Belt Squat Belt
After doing some research and consulting with fellow trainers, the consensus was clear: the Spud Inc Hip Belt Squat Belt was the way to go. Sure, at around $75, it’s pricier than your average dip belt, but let me tell you—it’s worth every penny.
Features and Benefits
- Maximal Comfort: The belt is designed with wide, padded nylon that sits comfortably on your hips. No more chains digging into your flesh.
- High Weight Capacity: Whether you’re loading kettlebells, weight plates, or odd objects, this belt can handle it.
- Versatility: Beyond belt squats, it’s great for dips, pull-ups, sled dragging, and more.
- Durable Construction: Made in America with heavy-duty woven nylon, this belt is built to last.
How It Works with the Black Widow Rack Platforms
I can’t talk about the Spud Inc belt without mentioning how beautifully it pairs with my Black Widow Rack Platforms. The platforms allow for a full range of motion during belt squats, and the Spud Inc belt ensures that you’re comfortable throughout the movement, even with heavy weights.
I typically load up the weight using a swing bar attached to the belt. The belt’s wide design distributes the weight evenly across your hips, eliminating the sharp pains and discomfort I experienced with the dip belt. It stays securely in place, so you can focus on your form and not on adjusting the belt mid-set.
A Few Considerations
While most users (myself included) rave about the Spud Inc Hip Belt Squat Belt, some have mentioned that it doesn’t come with a carabiner or chain. In my case, I used a nylon strap and a carabiner I already had lying around, and it worked perfectly. If you’re planning to use it right out of the box, you might want to order the version that includes a chain and hook or be prepared to supply your own.
Other Uses Beyond Belt Squats
One of the things I love about this belt is its versatility. It’s not just for belt squats:
- Weighted Dips and Pull-Ups: The belt sits comfortably without cutting into your sides.
- Sled Dragging: Attach it to a sled for some killer conditioning work.
- Landmine Belt Squats: If you don’t have platforms, you can still perform belt squats using a landmine setup.
Final Thoughts
The Spud Inc Hip Belt Squat Belt has been a fantastic addition to my gym. It solved the discomfort issues I had with my dip belt and opened up new possibilities for lower body training without taxing my spine. If you’re serious about belt squats or looking for a versatile belt for various exercises, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
As always, if you have any questions or want to share your experiences, drop a comment below or reach out to me directly. And if you haven’t already, check out my comprehensive review of the Black Widow Rack Platforms. Happy lifting!