Abstract: A shaped lifting belt and method in which the shape is provided by deepening the central lumbar panel in the rear to a depth of at least an additional half of the depth of the side wraps, providing the lumbar panel with expandable elements, and then separating the ends of the wrap from the lumbar panel by shape panels which are stretchable and positioned to engage the upper rear portion of the hips is disclosed. The method of the invention requires the wearer to first engage the lifting belt assembly and secure the suspenders in the forward desirable position. Thereafter, the shape straps are secured to the inner portion of the wrap ends. The wrap ends are then secured to a central portion of the body followed by substantially encircling the same with the side pulls. Where coloring is desired, the suspender assembly may be of a different color than the belt itself, and optionally a removable side pull may be color coded or otherwise decorated to suit the application.