My Take on Belt Squats: Everybody Should Do Them

 

As a bodybuilder and athlete pushing almost half a century on this earth, I've learned a thing or two about longevity in this game. Building a powerful physique is the goal, but doing it sustainably, without constantly battling nagging injuries, becomes increasingly crucial. That's why I wanted to share my thoughts on an exercise that's become a real staple in my leg days: the belt squat.

For those unfamiliar, the belt squat, typically done on a specialized machine, involves loading the weight around your hips rather than across your upper back. Now, at 48, my lower back has seen its share of heavy lifting, and while I still love my barbell squats, the belt squat has become a fantastic tool for continuing to build serious quad and glute development without the same axial spinal load. Trust me, that difference is noticeable.

The setup is straightforward. You step onto the platform, get that belt snug around your hips – right below those hip bones – and you're essentially ready to go. The movement itself feels surprisingly natural. I focus on pushing my hips back and down, keeping my chest proud and my spine locked in neutral. I aim for a good, deep squat, really feeling the stretch in my quads and glutes. The beauty of it is, because the weight isn't compressing my spine, I can often push a little harder and really focus on those target muscles. The controlled descent and powerful drive back up, squeezing those glutes at the top – it just feels good. And let's not forget the breathing: deep breath in on the way down, strong exhale on the way up. It's fundamental.

What I've found particularly beneficial as I've gotten older is the reduced strain on my lower back. It allows me to train my legs intensely, which is essential for maintaining that balanced physique we bodybuilders strive for, without constantly worrying about aggravating my lumbar region. Plus, I've noticed a real emphasis on my quads and glutes with this movement. Because I can often maintain a more upright posture, I can really isolate those muscles in a way that sometimes feels different from a traditional back squat. It’s like hitting the same muscle groups from a slightly different angle, which, as any seasoned bodybuilder knows, is key for complete development.

Honestly, I think the belt squat is a winner for a lot of us, no matter where you are in your fitness journey. Younger guys looking to build a solid foundation? It’s a great way to learn the squat pattern without the added complexity of managing a barbell on your back. Lifters with some mileage on their bodies, like myself? It’s a fantastic way to keep those leg gains coming while being a bit kinder to the spine. Even if you’re just starting out, the stability of the machine can make learning the squat movement feel a bit more secure.

The core difference, and it’s a significant one, boils down to where the weight is. That barbell on your back compresses everything downwards. The belt squat? It’s a direct pull from the hips. This changes the whole dynamic. While barbell squats are still a king exercise for overall strength and hitting that posterior chain hard, the belt squat offers a unique advantage in terms of spinal decompression and targeted quad and glute work. For me, incorporating both into my routine has been a game-changer for continued growth and, perhaps more importantly at this stage, for staying in the game long-term. It's about smart training, listening to your body, and finding those tools that allow you to keep pushing your limits, intelligently.

Now, if you're intrigued by the belt squat and looking to incorporate it into your own training, you might be wondering about equipment. While a dedicated belt squat machine is ideal, there are also belt attachments that can be used with a power rack or even loaded independently. For those interested in exploring belt squat belts, I've found a few resources that might be helpful. 

Spud Inc. offers a robust-looking belt designed specifically for belt squats, which you can check out here: https://www.spud-inc-straps.com/collections/belts Another reputable option can be found at Bells of Steel: https://bellsofsteel.us/products/belt-squat-belt?_pos=1&_psq=belt+squa&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Additionally, for a visual demonstration of various belt squat setups and techniques, this YouTube link provides some useful insights: https://youtu.be/iHDWaCo7jfU Exploring these resources can help you determine the best way to integrate this valuable exercise into your own home or gym setup.

May Magic: Unlocking Heartland Bass with the Floating Worm

 

ShakaOG here in the heartland of the USA...as May rolls along and the spawn bite is on, the waters get warmer many anglers turn to more aggressive presentations. I've found significant success this May by utilizing the nuanced approach of fishing a floating worm. This technique, focusing on a slow, deliberate presentation just beneath the surface, has been incredibly effective at enticing strikes from quality bass in our local lakes and ponds.

My preferred choice for this subtle subsurface action is the renowned Zoom Trick Worm. This slender, straight-tailed worm possesses a unique buoyancy and action in the water that bass find irresistible. Unlike lures designed to churn the surface, the floating worm suspends enticingly in the water column, often just a few inches down, mimicking a dying or injured baitfish fluttering gently. This less aggressive presentation can be particularly effective when fish are pressured or the water is calm.

Color selection plays a vital role in maximizing the effectiveness of the Trick Worm. This May, I've had success with several key colors depending on water clarity and light penetration. In clearer water with sunny skies, Watermelon Red Flake has been a consistent producer, the subtle red flecks providing a touch of realism. On overcast days or in slightly stained water, Bubblegum and Pink offer increased visibility, allowing the bass to track the bait more easily. For a more natural profile in clearer conditions, Green Pumpkin and June Bug remain reliable choices, blending seamlessly with the underwater environment. Experimentation is key to dialing in what the fish prefer on any given day.

An often underestimated piece of terminal tackle when fishing a floating worm is a swivel. The inherent twisting motion of the worm as it's worked through the water can quickly lead to significant line twist. Incorporating a quality barrel swivel, placed approximately a foot above your hook, is crucial for preventing frustrating line management issues and ensuring smooth casts and retrieves. This simple addition will significantly improve your fishing experience with this technique.

The benefits of using a floating worm are numerous, contributing to its effectiveness as a subsurface presentation. Its subtle and non-threatening action can trigger strikes when more aggressive lures are ignored, especially in heavily fished waters. The enticing flutter and suspension just below the surface present an easy target for cruising bass. Furthermore, the versatility of the floating worm allows it to be fished in various scenarios, from open water to around submerged vegetation and docks.

The key to effectively fishing a floating worm for big strikes lies in a slow and deliberate presentation. Gentle twitches of the rod tip impart subtle action to the worm, causing it to undulate and flutter enticingly. Crucially, pauses are essential. Often, the strike will occur during a pause as the bass moves in to investigate the seemingly vulnerable bait. Maintaining a semi-slack line allows the bass to take the bait without feeling immediate resistance, leading to better hooksets. Pay close attention to any subtle movements or tightening of your line, as these can signal a bite. A patient approach is often rewarded with quality fish.

For invaluable insights and advanced techniques on fishing the floating worm, I highly recommend checking out the wisdom shared by the renowned angler, Randy Blaukat. Randy has extensively discussed the effectiveness of this presentation and offers fantastic tips for success. You can find his insightful content on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@RandyBlaukatFishing. For a specific video where Randy delves into the intricacies of fishing a floating worm, be sure to watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi446cVF0ys. His expertise is a game-changer for this technique!

Finally, let's delve into the history of the company behind the Trick Worm: Zoom Bait Company. Since its inception in the late 1970s, Zoom has become a dominant force in the soft plastic lure market. Their unwavering commitment to producing high-quality, fish-catching baits in a vast array of colors and styles has earned them a loyal following among anglers. The Trick Worm itself quickly gained popularity due to its unique, subtle action and its effectiveness in various presentations, including the enticing floating technique. Its simple yet incredibly effective design has made it a staple in tackle boxes for decades. To explore the wide selection of Zoom Trick Worms and other Zoom baits, and to find the best places to purchase them, I recommend visiting https://zoombait.com/trick-worm/ Tie on a Trick Worm, embrace the subtle presentation, and get ready for some exciting subsurface action in the heartland!