A weightlifting belt serves as a powerful reminder to activate your core. Even if you don’t plan to wear it during the workout itself, using a belt in your warmup can reinforce proper bracing technique. Nearly every movement in CrossFit—whether it’s lifting, gymnastics, or conditioning—benefits from a strong, engaged midline. You wouldn’t skip warming up your legs before a heavy squat, so why not prepare your core the same way?

The Open isn’t just about perfect reps—it’s about moving fast, grinding through fatigue, and getting as many reps as possible. Unlike controlled, static lifts where form is locked in, high-intensity workouts often force athletes into less-than-ideal positions. A weightlifting belt helps cue core engagement, keeping you stable and reducing the risk of injury, even when you’re moving at full speed.

The Open is a test of grit. By the end of a workout, when exhaustion kicks in and every rep feels like a battle, it’s easy to let core engagement slip. A belt provides essential tactile feedback, reminding you to brace and move with intention—even when your body is running on empty. Whether the weights are heavy or light, maintaining core stability under fatigue can make the difference between an efficient lift and a costly no-rep.