How to find your belt size?

Measure around your belly button with clothing on using a measuring tape and refer to the size chart provided on the product page.

What happens if I bulk or cut in future?

The belts include adjustment space on both sides, allowing flexibility if your body size changes.

Where should I wear my belt?

Wear the belt just below your rib cage and above your hip bone for optimal support and stability.

How does a lever belt help in weightlifting?

It increases intra-abdominal pressure, stabilizing your core and improving strength during lifts.

Weight Lifting Belts

Frequently Asked Questions About Weight Lifting Belts

Q1. What is the best weightlifting belt thickness for beginners?

A1. For beginners, a 10mm lever belt provides the best balance of support and comfort. The 13mm belt is stiffer and better suited to intermediate-to-advanced lifters performing maximal squats and deadlifts. If you're just starting out, a 7mm prong belt or quick-locking nylon belt is the most comfortable entry point.

Q2. What is the difference between a lever belt and a prong belt?

A2. A lever belt uses a metal lever mechanism for fast, consistent fastening and release — ideal for powerlifting where you need to adjust tightness between sets. A prong belt uses a traditional buckle and requires more effort to fasten and release. Lever belts are recommended for serious lifters; prong belts are more affordable and suit gym beginners.

Q3. Are Hack Athletics belts IPF approved?

A3. Yes. All Hack Athletics leather lever belts are manufactured to IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) specifications — 4 inches wide, 10mm or 13mm thick, with uniform construction. However, rules vary by federation, so we recommend confirming with your specific competition federation before purchasing.

Q4. How do I find my weightlifting belt size?

A4. Do NOT use your pant/waist size. Instead, measure the circumference around your belly button with your clothes on using a flexible measuring tape. Refer to the sizing chart on each product page to match your measurement to the correct belt size. All Hack Athletics belts have buffer room for bulking or cutting.

Q5. Do Hack Athletics belts ship across India with free delivery?

A5. Yes. Hack Athletics offers free shipping on all orders across India. Orders are dispatched from our Mumbai warehouse and typically delivered within 5–7 business days to most PIN codes.

Q6. Where should I position my weightlifting belt during squats?

A6. Position the belt directly below your rib cage and above your hip bone. The belt should allow you to take a full diaphragmatic breath and brace your core against it. Avoid placing it too high (restricts rib expansion) or too low (traps between hip crests at the bottom of the squat).

Q7. How long does a leather lever belt take to break in?

A7. A 13mm leather lever belt typically requires 2–3 months of regular training to fully break in. A 10mm belt breaks in within 4–6 weeks. To speed up the process, gently roll the belt back and forth in your hands between sessions. Avoid rolling it too tightly as this can damage the leather.