No, I haven't had experience rolling belts into place. I saw a video from Pacifica showing the process, but it didn't look like the guy was going to get a hernia doing it. I understand the concept, but it's the power that I need in my hands, some kind of a tool, or I need a little bit less space between. Would it work to stretch the belts before putting them on, like put my foot on it and pull? Or would that compromise their strength? And yes, I did put them in hot water first. BTW how long do you keep them in the hot water?