Tweetok...i dont use a belt. nearly ever. deadlifts, squats (havnt done in awhile), rearly ever. this weekend i've noticed my sides are looking a little thick. it's past the "fat" or "spare tire" thing...it's more like the obliques are possibly being over stimulated into growth. could this be from not using a belt? i do not do sit ups (havnt in 3 years or so). i pull from mid shin level on deads and always do 4-8 reps depending on weight. currently do 5 sets working up to max set of 4@ 395 (my last workout)....could not using a belt be a prob? my lower back never hurts. i do standing laterals, standing dumbell presses/military presses, overhead extentions...ect. what do you guys think?