The lack of knowledge in weight belt use is evident. Gym personnel, when asked why they used Weight belts, most responded that the belt would prevent injury and improve performance. "The underlying principle for wearing a weight belt while strength training is for safety purposes when lifting maximal or near maximal loads," explains Peter Melanson, CSCS, Education Programs Coordinator for the NSCA. "We suggest avoiding belts for lesser weights in order to strengthen surrounding trunk muscles." Therefore the responses of personnel, should concern health and fitness professionals. When surveyed regarding the amount of weight deemed necessary to wear the apparatus, 51 percent responded when lifting any weight, 30% when lifting moderate or greater, and only 24% when lifting maximum weight.

The most frequent exercises listed where weight belts were used were the squat, dead lift, shoulder press, bench press, and bent-over row. The use of a belt during bench press exercises was unexpected, and 51% of weight belt users specified they would use a belt while lifting any weight during one or more of the above-mentioned exercises. The most surprising discovery is that 32% used a weight belt for all machine and free weight exercises at all loads. And one individual used a belt during cardiovascular exercises. "Not only are weight belt users using the device inappropriately, but are potentially hurting themselves by using the device on exercises where the belt is not necessary and weakening the core stability muscles," stated Melanson. "Weight belts will not prevent you from getting injured or allow you to lift more weight. Proper lifting technique and knowing your limitations is the most important thing to keep in mind." The NSCA recommends that exercisers work with a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist to learn the proper usage of weight belts and how to perform exercises for improving core stability.