The Weighted Vest Craze!
If you’ve never seen anyone wearing a weighted vest, then you probably live under a bigger rock than I do. Are you wondering if you should load up? Before you buy one for yourself or a loved one this Christmas, consider a few things.
Benefits
There are many benefits to walking with a weight vest. The added weight makes your body work harder, especially your core, legs, hips, knees, ankles, and back muscles. That extra effort boosts your heart rate, which is great for your cardiovascular health and helps burn more calories. It also ramps up your metabolism and can increase bone density. Plus, putting on and wearing a weighted vest can help improve your balance
Cons
That said, there are some downsides too. Doing too much or overtraining can put stress on your joints and muscles, raising the risk of injury. The extra weight might cause you to develop bad posture without realizing it, which can lead to pain or injuries. The vest itself can be bulky and might limit your walking stride, arm movement, or even your breathing.
A weighted vest can be a good option for people who need low-impact exercise or those with a limited walking pace. If you’re injured or have neck, back, or chronic pain, it’s best to steer clear.
Notice I’ve only covered walking with a weight vest. If you’re thinking about working out with one, that’s a whole different ballgame. Reach out and schedule a session with me if you’re interested in starting a weighted vest workout routine.