My belt gave me an owie

**Steven Z** · 06-01-2020, 04:06 PM

I've got track marks from the velcro strap of my cheapo Chinese made Rogue belt. Is this just karma for spending $20 on something I should have spent real money on? I know the answer to this question is yes, so I am going to buy a nicer belt, but wanted to ask a more important question. Is the fact that I have track marks (full on burst blood vessels) a sign my belt is too tight or just poor design? I brace when I tighten the belt; I don't suck in. Breathing is fine when the belt is on and it feels comfortable. Bad design or am I doing something wrong?

**Mark Rippetoe** · 06-01-2020, 09:01 PM

Broken blood vessels (petechia) are not a function of belt design. It was probably too tight. This is a better belt: Equipment | Starting Strength

**Steven Z** · 06-02-2020, 01:33 PM

Sold

**Sib** · 09-29-2020, 10:44 AM

Originally Posted by Mark Rippetoe

Broken blood vessels (petechia) are not a function of belt design. It was probably too tight. This is a better belt: Equipment | Starting Strength

This is what I was looking for thanks

**J. Killmond** · 09-30-2020, 11:28 AM

Those of us with lean, sculpted physiques don't have to worry, but flab can also get an "owie" if it's pinched by a mis-positioned belt (this did not happen to me with my new 2 and half-inch belt)

**Steven Z** · 10-01-2020, 02:21 PM

Originally Posted by J. Killmond

Those of us with lean, sculpted physiques don't have to worry, but flab can also get an "owie" if it's pinched by a mis-positioned belt (this did not happen to me with my new 2 and half-inch belt)

Rip was right, the belt was too tight. I've had the 3 inch double ply Dominion/SS belt now for 3 months and it is fantastic. I just recently moved down a hole and it is pretty tight (would be impossible to get it any tighter) but still have had no issues with petechia. The belt always sits perfectly and never gets in the way of my ribs or hips. I love it. I wish everything I bought was of that level of quality.