How to Put On a Lever Belt: Step-by-Step for a Tight, Fast Fit

Lever belts are loved for how fast they go on and come off. Once the lever is set, you wrap the belt around your waist, hook the lever and snap it shut. But the first few times, it can feel awkward. Which way does it face? How do you hook it? Why is it so hard to close? This guide explains exactly how to put on a lever belt so it is quick and comfortable every time.

Before You Start: Is the Lever Set Right?

A lever belt only works well if the buckle is mounted at the correct position for your waist. If you just got a new belt, you may need to move the lever with a screwdriver first. Our full guide on how to adjust a lever belt walks you through it. Once it is set, you usually do not need to change it unless your waist size changes or you want a different fit for a different lift.

Which Way Does a Lever Belt Face?

Most lifters wear the lever in front, roughly centered or slightly off to one side, so they can reach it easily. The belt should run so the lever's hook end catches the strap's holes or plate as you close it. If the lever opens toward your body and pinches, try flipping the belt so it faces the other way.

Step-by-Step: Putting It On

1. Open the lever fully. Flip it so the hook end sticks out.
2. Wrap the belt around your waist with the lever in front.
3. Position the belt where you want it, usually around your belly button for squats, slightly different for deadlifts.
4. Hook the lever into the belt's holes or catch.
5. Take a breath and brace slightly, then close the lever by pressing it flat. It should take some effort, but not a struggle that hurts your hands.
6. Check the fit. You should be able to take a big breath into your belly and push out against the belt.

How to Take It Off

Flip the lever open. The belt loosens instantly. Unhook it and you are done. Between sets, many lifters just flip it open and leave the belt hooked so they can close it again quickly.

How Tight Should It Be?

The belt should be snug enough that you can brace hard against it, but loose enough that you can still breathe into your stomach. If you cannot close the lever without exhaling completely and sucking in, it may be too tight. If you can slide your whole hand easily between the belt and your stomach while braced, it may be too loose. Read how tight should a lifting belt be.

Positioning for Each Lift

• Squats: many lifters wear it around the belly button. See lifting belt for squats.
• Deadlifts: often slightly higher or looser so it does not dig into the hips at the start. See lifting belt for deadlifts.
• Overhead press: similar to squats. See lifting belt for overhead press.
• Bench press: usually a bit higher. Read lifting belt for bench press.

For more, read how to wear a weightlifting belt.

Common Mistakes

• Closing the lever while fully relaxed: you may end up too loose once you brace.
• Sucking in to close it: you will be too tight to breathe and brace properly.
• Wearing it too high or low: a belt on your ribs or hips will feel awkward.
• Forcing the lever on a brand-new stiff belt: give it time to break in. Read how to break in a lifting belt.
• Not adjusting after weight changes: if closing gets much harder or easier, move the lever.

Using One Belt for Squats and Deadlifts

Some lifters want a slightly looser fit for deadlifts. With a lever belt you have a few options: wear it a little higher for deadlifts, accept one setting that works for both, or keep a second lever set at a different hole. Read lever vs prong vs quick locking lifting belt if you need lots of quick adjustment.

The Bay Gear Co. Lever Belt

The Bay Gear Co. lever belt is 10mm thick and 4.25" wide, in sizes XS through 3XL. It is built for heavy squats, deadlifts and presses, and once set, it closes to the same tightness every time. Browse the lever belts collection and use the lifting belt size guide to pick your size. Not sure a lever is for you? Read is a lever belt worth it.

Prefer Faster Adjustments?

If you change tightness often, a self-locking belt may suit you better. The Bay Gear Co. quick locking belt is $34.99. Read self-locking lifting belt.

Gear to Pair With a Lever Belt

• Knee sleeves, 7mm thick and 9.5" long for $59.99.
• Knee wraps, 78" by 3.25", for max squat days.
• 24" lifting straps, $19.99, for heavy pulls.
• The Heavy Hitter bundle and Heavy Hitter bundles collection for combos.

Caring for Your Lever Belt

Wipe it down after sweaty sessions, let it air dry and store it flat or loosely coiled. Check the lever screws now and then to make sure they are snug. Read how to clean a lifting belt.

Shipping and Returns

Bay Gear Co. keeps it simple for How to Put On a Lever Belt: free shipping on orders over $49 and a 30-day return policy.

FAQ

Which way should a lever belt face?

Most lifters wear the lever in front where they can reach it, with the belt oriented so the hook catches as you close it.

Why is my lever belt so hard to close?

It may be set too tight, or the belt may still be stiff. Move the lever one hole or give it time to break in.

Should I suck in when closing a lever belt?

No. Take a normal breath and brace slightly so you can still breathe into the belt.

Can I wear a lever belt for deadlifts?

Yes. Many lifters wear it slightly higher or set a bit looser for deadlifts.