Question
Hi
I am a 51 year old guy.
I have always had a very pronounced abdomen, possibly from years of not getting enough physical activity as a long haul truck driver. My lower back is still OK but is starting to act up a bit these days.
In addition to cleaning up my diet, doing exercises for my core and stretching,I have started going for long walks progressing to jogging.
If I wore one of these belts, would it improve my posture even after I have finished? I try to suck it in and be erect but its hard-I am thinking a belt would help.
I dont mean one of those belts you see on TV for 'melting fat' I mean something like this:
http://www.everlast.com/prodinfo.asp?number=EVSLMB%203
Thanks!

Answer
A lower back support belt will provide temporary support while wearing, including some postural support. I am only a fan of using these when you are having lower back pain, or when lifting heavy/frequently. Keep up strengthening the core muscles and stretch the back, gluts, hamstrings, quads and calf muscles. I have found that performing the exercises for the core on a swiss exercise ball work great. Men get weak abdominal wall muscles and very tight lower back muscles along with is an area of belly fat deposit.  Also, think of often tightening the stomach muscles as if "preparing for a punch" throughout the day, especially when bending at the waist, squatting or lifting.