- One of many newer entrants into the trending health tools lineup is the belt squat machine. These machines are gaining popularity due to the superb exercise they supply with out taxing the backbone.
At the moment, there are solely a handful of producers making the belt squat machine and on this publish, we’ll cowl the three greatest belt squat machines that may be added to your business or residence gymnasium.
Let’s get into it…
** This publish might comprise affiliate hyperlinks the place we make a small fee on purchases made for free of charge to you. We solely advocate merchandise we expect you’ll discover priceless.**
3 Finest Belt Squat Machines For All Budgets
- Total Finest Belt Squat Machine: Bells Of Steel Belt Squat Machine
- Finest Funds Belt Squat Machine: Titan Belt Squat Machine
- Finest Premium Belt Squat Machine: Rogue Monster Rhino Belt Squat Machine
1. Total Finest Belt Squat Machine: Bells Of Steel Belt Squat Machine
The Bells Of Steel Belt Squat Machine 2.0 is our decide for the perfect general machine that may meet and exceed the wants of most individuals.
Bells of Metal has made a reputation for itself over the previous few years by providing kickass tools at a worth that will not break the financial institution.
The Bells of Metal belt squat machine is constructed from heavy-duty 11 gauge metal that has 0 gauge connection plates that lead to a 700-pound most weight capability. Coated in black powder paint the high-quality belt squat machine ought to final you for years to come back.
One of many key options to not miss is the cut-out on the footplate that enables the lever arm to maneuver in a wider vary of movement, due to this fact, giving the customers an opportunity to maneuver by an entire ROM.
With this machine, you could have a set handlebar to assist hold you regular as you carry out your belt squats.
To get the optimum vary of movement there are top-loaded pegs or elective facet pegs plus there are high and backside band pegs in case you need to incorporate your energy bands into your coaching. The fantastic thing about the top-loaded weight horns is that you do not have to fret in regards to the weights hitting the ground as you squat down.
This lever belt squat machine employs high-quality bushings on the pivot factors for fluid motion. Along with your buy of this machine, you get a heavy-duty belt that has 2 ft of chain and a couple of carabiners. Plus this belt machine’s beginning weight is 45 kilos making it the identical as a standard barbell, it is a nice function that allows the lifter to know precisely how a lot they’re squatting.
One other perk of this belt squat machine is that you just needn’t mount it to the ground as it’s relatively sturdy contemplating the 264-pound body.
Take among the strain off of your lumbar backbone and hit some deep squats with this lever arm machine that is round $1000
PROS
- Nice worth
- Excessive-quality construct with 11 gauge metal
- 700 lb most weight capability
- Comes with a heavy-duty belt
- 4 progressive design band pegs
- Lifetime guarantee
CONS:
- Not a cable machine results in slightly ahead pull
- Non-adjustable lever arm or security stopper
Our belt squat 2.0 is by far the perfect cash worth belt squat obtainable and comes with some glorious upgrades…
2. Finest Funds Belt Squat Machine: Titan Belt Squat Machine
The Titan Fitness Belt squat machine is the perfect money-value choice we have come throughout.
For round $700 you get a high quality belt squat machine with tones of key options that may fulfill the vast majority of residence gymnasium homeowners.
This metal machine will assist you to work the decrease physique with out the added stress in your lumbar backbone, shoulders and torso.
Titan included 3 weight stopper positions so that you could change up your squat depth. There are additionally 4 posts to retailer your weight plates on that act as a counterbalance to offer the machine added stability. Whether or not you are doing belt squat marches, hip belt squats, calf raises or higher physique workout routines you could be relaxation assured that the machine stays secure.
Just like the Bells of Metal machine, Titan additionally makes use of a lever system however they declare a 1000-pound max weight capability. This excessive weight capability would rival belt machines that you just would possibly discover in business gyms. On the base of the machine, you may be standing on a stable diamond-plated footplate.
Titan additionally features a weight belt, chain and carabiners so you may get began in your field squats or belt squats very quickly.
Execs:
- Very reasonably priced
- Adjustable lever arm
- Excessive weight capability of 1000 lb
- Comes with a weight belt
- Storage for weight plates
CONS:
- Not as sturdy as different machines
- Lower than splendid belt high quality
- Won’t be appropriate for very quick folks
The Belt Squat Machine by Titan Health® will enable you to construct a lower-body explosion with out placing the pressure in your shoulders, backbone, and decrease again…
3. Finest Premium Belt Squat Machine: Rogue Monster Rhino Belt Squat Machine
The Rogue Monster Rhino belt squat machine is actually a beast. The foremost distinction between this machine and the earlier two is that this operates through a cable and pulley system whereas the others are lever arm machines.
If cash’s not an object and also you need to go exhausting in your belt squat recreation then it’s best to think about buying this piece of gymnasium tools. Weighing in at over 500 kilos this factor is constructed like a tank. You higher be 100% certain the place you need to set it up as a result of as soon as it is assembled it is most definitely not going wherever anytime quickly.
Whereas this machine weighs greater than its counterparts, the precise footprint is relatively compact because of the weight horns being positioned within the middle. Just like the Titan machine, this one can maintain as much as 1000 kilos which most individuals will not even come near doing.
A couple of different key options of this premium machine embrace:
- Adjustable handles: A pleasant contact particularly if a number of folks will likely be utilizing the machine
- Rogue multi-belt: Along with your buy, you get the Rogue multi-belt which is a stable accent with 5 D hooks permitting you to regulate the place you need to connect the cable to.
- Band Pegs: Throw some resistance bands into the combination for an added problem.
Only a heads up, Rogue encourages prospects to bolt this machine to the ground.
All in all in the event you had the cash to spend then this could be the machine for you.
PROS:
- Cable system
- Excessive weight capability of 1000 lb
- A greater discount in comparison with different related machines
- Adjustable handles and premium belt
- Restricted lifetime guarantee
CONS:
- Not for folks with a restricted price range
- Must be ground mounted
- Lengthy meeting time
Manufactured in Columbus, Ohio, the stand-alone Monster Rhino Belt Squat comes with 3×3” arms and crossmembers, a 3×6” weight trolley tower, and a 0.25″ braided cable…
3 Finest Belt Squat Machines Comparability
Under you’ll be able to see how our favourite belt squat machines stack up subsequent to 1 one other. We hope this can assist you to decide which is the best choice in your wants.
| Product | Value |
Dimensions L x W x H |
Guarantee | Options | Critiques |
| $$ |
51″ 51″ 41.7″ |
Restricted lifetime |
Adjustable unracking positions 11 gauge metal Band pegs Belt included 700 lb weight capability |
184 Critiques ✩✩✩✩✩ |
|
| $ |
52″ 83″ 38.5″ |
1 yr |
3 stopper positions 4 weight pegs Heavy responsibility metal 1000 lb weight capability |
32 Critiques ✩✩✩✩.9 |
|
| $$$$ |
53″ 60.5″ 78.5″ |
Restricted lifetime |
Adjustable handles Cable machine 3×3″ metal body Rhine Horn for various racked heights Premium belt 1000 lb weight capability |
101 Critiques ✩✩✩✩.8 |
Belt Squat VS Barbell again Squat
No you might be questioning, “what’s higher belt squats or again squats?”, properly you are in luck as this query has really been studied in a medical setting.
Researchers not too long ago appeared on the muscle activation through EMG to find out the variations between belt squats and conventional squats. The primary query was to see whether or not or not belt squats resulted in the same engagement of the prime movers and stabilizing muscle mass as a daily squat does however with much less activation of the lumbar extensor.
The outcomes had been fairly astounding as 10 properly educated members carried out three units of 5 reps at 100% their body weight. The researchers discovered that the belt squat decreased the lumbar erector impulse and peak activation at 45.4% and 52% respectively. On the similar time the belt squat din’t alter muscle activation of the decrease extremities apart from the gluteus medius (54.1% impulse and 55.2% peak) and gluteus maximus (35.2% impulse and 32.1% peak).
Belt squats additionally decreased the activation of the rectus abdominis and exterior obliques.
To place it in layman phrases, the belt squat was simply as efficient in working the quads, hamstrings, and plantar flexors however much less efficient in participating the trunk stabilizers and gluteal muscle mass. Subsequently, belt squats are an superior different to again squats if you wish to keep away from placing rigidity on the decrease again and trunk.1
BENEFITS OF BELT SQUAT MACHINES:
Belt squat machines provide users with a range of benefits which is why they’re becoming ever more popular in the fitness industry. Let’s have a look at some of the advantages a belt squat machine can offer.
1.) Reduce Stress On Spine & Shoulders
Unlike barbell squats, using a belt squat machine allows lifters to target the lower body without the added pressure and stress of having the axial load centered on top of the body.
Some people have lower back or shoulder issues which makes the barbell back squat somewhat unattainable without causing more issues. So for those that suffer from a shoulder injury, have hip issues or lower back pain, then performing squats on a belt squat machine could be the answer to your problems.
2.) Boosts Hip Extension Activation
When strapping on the adjustable belt and getting into position on the machine you’ll notice the load in front of your body. This positioning emphasizes hip extension resulting in some glute activation. So for those that want a killer glute workout without adding more stress on the upper body then try out a belt squat machine next time you get a chance.
3.) Squat Without Back Pain
If you want to get a similar muscle activation as a barbell back squat with a machine you can use the leg press and hack squat machine. However, belt squat machines will be the closest to the back squat without putting any undue pressure on your spine.
4.) Great For Everyone
The belt squat machines are a versatile piece of gym equipment as it offers something for everyone. No matter whether you’re a professional athlete, a complete beginner, or someone coming back from an injury, this machine can provide you with an efficient and effective workout.
5.) Easier to Keep Spine Vertical
Good form and technique are essential when performing barbell backs squats, many people have some issues with keeping their spine vertical due to the placement of the load on the body. With belt squats it’s much easier to keep your spine in a vertical alignment which reduces the chances of injuring yourself or experiencing pain.
6.) Multiple Exercises
Although belt squat machines are mainly used for the namesake belt squat, there are a number of exercises that you can perform on one. Below are some movements that you can execute using your belt squat machine.
Belt Squats
- Belt marches
- Lunges
- High pulls
- Deadlifts
- Rows
- Overhead tricep extensions
TYPES OF BELT SQUAT MACHINE
Belt squat machines come in different shapes and sizes but there are three main types you’ll see on the market these days. Below we briefly cover the common types of belt squat machines and what you can expect from each.
Cable Belt Squat Machine
A cable belt squat machine is exactly as it sounds. A cable comes up through the footplate and attaches to the belt you’re wearing on one side and a pulley system on the other. The benefit of cable belt squat machines is that the weight is perfectly centered under you so you’re squatting motion is natural.
These machines usually have a much smoother motion, cost more money and take up more space. So it comes down to a budget issue and square foot trade-off whether you opt for a cable belt squat machine or a lever arm machine. Above we covered the Rogue Monster Rhino belt squat machine which would be an example of a cable belt squat machine.
Lever belt squat Machine
The lever arm belt squat machine relies on a primary pivot point that sits in front of the lifter. Above we covered the Bells Of Steel and Titan machines which use this style of mechanism. These lever system machines tend to be much lower cost while having a smaller footprint.
The one downfall of the lever arm machines is that the weight is centered in front on a connection arm of you rather than underneath you. This positioning can lead to a little forward pull at the knees which isn’t as much as a natural motion compared with a cable machine.
Free weight Belt squat machine
Not as common as the two previously mentioned, the free weight belt squat machine utilizes weight plates that dangle below you while attached to the belt around your waist. The lifter stands on a platform that has a center hole cutout where the weight plates are stowed on a center pin which ensures you stay vertical as you perform your squats.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A BELT SQUAT MACHINE:
Belt squat machines aren’t cheap so it’s important you know what you’re looking for when shopping for one.
1.) Size
The available space you have can be a deal breaker when it comes to buying a belt squat machine. These pieces of gym equipment tend to have a larger footprint so you can expect it to take up an area of up to 5 feet deep and 8 feet wide. The height of most belt squat machines shouldn’t be much of an issue but in some cases if you have low ceilings under 8 feet then make sure to check the machine’s height. For example, Rogue’s machine is about 6.5 feet tall.
2.) Type
The type of belt squat machine you buy is largely dependent on the amount of money you’re spending. Most people will enjoy a lever arm machine without many gripes even though you might experience a slight forward pull. However, if you’re willing to fork out some more cash then a cable belt squat machine might be a better choice.
3.) Build Quality
A good sign of a well built belt squat machine will use 11 gauge steel. To give you an idea of what to expect, the lightest machine on our list was from Titan Fitness as it weighs in at 232 pounds while Rogue’s Rhino belt squat machine weighs over 500! Expect a quality belt squat machine to have a maximum weight capacity of 700 to 1000 pounds.
Besides the beefy frame you should also be on the lookout for any extras the machine offers such as adjustable handles, adjustable racking positions, safety stoppers, weight plate storage posts and band pegs.
4.) Price
Belt squat machines have quite the range in price tags, on the low end you can expect to pick one up for $700 like the one from Titan Fitness and on the high end you could spend well over $4k. We believe the sweet spot is from $700-$1300.
5.) Warranty
Belt squat machines aren’t cheap therefore you should try to find one that has a great warranty to protect your investment. In our opinion belt squat machines should have at the very minimum 1-year warranty but the ideal length you should look for is a limited lifetime warranty.
6.) Reviews
Always spend 20-30 minutes combing through reviews online when you’re thinking about making a big purchase like a belt squat machine. You should get a rough idea of the overall sentiment previous customers have about a given piece of equipment if you check the manufacturer’s website, online forums like Reddit, YoutTube and blogs like ours.
BELT SQUAT MACHINE FAQ
Are belt squat machines worth it?
In our opinion belt squats are absolutely worth the investment. Although the belt squat machine is used mainly for squatting movements there are a number of exercises that can be done with one. However, those that suffer from back, shoulder or elbow issues that make it unbearable to execute a barbell squat should definitely consider buying a belt squat machine.
Which squat machine is best?
We chose the Bells Of Steel Belt Squat Machine as our favourite though if in case you have a extra restricted price range then it’s best to think about the Titan Belt Squat Machine. Then the higher-end Rogue Monster Rhino Belt Squat Machine could be a better option for business gyms. Another honorable mentions that did not make our listing are the Wenning belt squat machine, Squatmax MD belt squat machine and the Pit Shark machine.
Is belt squat higher than squat?
We would not say that the belt squat is best than conventional barbell squats however in sure conditions, the belt squat is much superior. Within the conditions the place you need to restrict the load on the backbone and shoulders but nonetheless get in an amazing decrease physique exercise on the glutes, quads, and hammies then the belt squat is a transparent winner.
Is Rhino squat good?
The Rhino belt squat is a unbelievable piece of apparatus and Rogue actually thought by the design and performance of it. In comparison with different premium choices that go for over $2k we imagine the Rhino is by far the best choice.
SUMMARY
By now it’s best to get the purpose that belt squat machines may very well be the reply to your prayers in the event you wrestle with conventional squats however nonetheless need to crush a decrease physique exercise. As we talked about above, you may get the identical muscle activation of the most important leg muscle mass with out the added stress on the again and trunk.
Belt squat machines could be an superior addition to any residence gymnasium so do not be stunned in the event you purchase one then your lifting buddies need to come over on a regular basis to make use of it!
Extra Finest Tools Roundups:
References:
1. Exercise of Trunk and Decrease Extremity Musculature: Comparability Between Parallel Again Squats and Belt Squats
Joseph et al.
