Latest news with #weightedvest
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Wearing a Weighted Vest May Help Maintain Weight Loss 2 Years After Dieting, New Study Finds
We all know that losing weight is one thing, but keeping it off? That's the real mountain. Most of us have felt that frustrating boomerang effect after months of hard graft. In fact, many studies indicate that long-term weight loss maintenance is particularly difficult to achieve. But what if there was a way to support the metabolism and increase the chances of keeping the weight off? That's exactly what a group of researchers set out to explore, not with obscure diets or another app, but with something surprisingly simple: a weighted vest. They hypothesised that your body has a kind of internal weight sensing system (called the gravitostat), and if you can keep it 'tricked' into feeling heavier, you might avoid the usual metabolic slowdown that leads to weight regain. While this is a very new area of study, and more research is needed, here's what the researchers found, and what it could mean for the way we think about sustainable weight loss. The researchers of the pilot study, published in the International Journal of Obesity, aimed to explore whether wearing a weighted vest during a weight loss programme could help older adults with obesity maintain weight loss over the long term, possibly by preventing the usual drop in metabolism that leads to weight regain. The study methods included: 18 older adults with obesity and osteoarthritis took part in a 6-month weight loss programme using meal replacements and dietary counselling. Half the group also wore a weighted vest up to 10 hours a day during this time, with the vest weight gradually increased to match the amount of weight they lost. No participants wore the vest after the 6 months, but researchers followed up 24 months after the start of the study to measure weight and metabolic rate. Both groups lost a similar amount of weight during the first 6 months (about 10-11 kg). At 24 months, the vest group had regained only half of their lost weight, while the non-vest group regained all of it. The vest group also showed much less of a drop in resting metabolic rate, which may have helped prevent the weight regain. Wearing a weighted vest during dieting may help the body feel heavier, activating a system called the gravitostat that helps regulate weight and metabolism. This could be a promising tool for improving long-term weight loss success, especially for older adults or those unable to exercise. But before we get too excited, larger studies are needed before this becomes a general recommendation for people trying to lose weight. The study was small, plus, while wearing a vest for a workout or a walk is feasible, for 10 hours a day is a little bit of a stretch. You may find it more comfortable to include a weighted vest in your workouts, or for your walks. Another study has shown that doing so can increase your energy burn by as much as 40%. However, if you're curious to find out more about what it's like to wear a weighted vest all day, our writer did exactly that, and detailed his experience. You can read all about it here: You Might Also Like The 23 Best Foods to Build Muscle 10 of the Best Waterproof Boots to Buy in 2019 6 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
Wall Street Journal
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Wall Street Journal
Are Weighted Vests Really Worth the Hype?
It's not often that we intentionally add extra body weight. But the latest fitness fad encourages it: Meet the weighted vest. You've probably seen them in your neighborhood, on power-walking pros out and about at the crack of dawn. That's my neighbor and me.
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Weighted Vests Will Make Every Workout More Productive
Regular use of a weighted vest can lead to myriad health benefits, some of which might surprise you. Sure, the best weighted vests can help you build more muscle by making your body work harder during workouts, and they can improve cardiovascular health by making walks, jogs or circuit training routines more challenging, but did you know that a weighted vest can even help with weight loss and bone density? A weighted vest like our top pick, the TRX Hexgrip Weighted Vest, belongs among the workout gear of anyone committed to improved health and fitness; this simple tool just might be one of the easiest ways to become a fitter, healthier you. Regularly wearing a weighted vest can lead to better cardio health, improved muscle development and ... More greater bone density. All that said, weighted vests are not uniform in fit, form or function. For example, the best weighted vest for intense strength training might not be comfortable while walking or jogging. Some weighted vests can be too bulky for smaller bodies, while others are simply too light for larger folks. We've broken down the best weighted vests by category, and spoken to several health and fitness experts with knowledge of weighted vest benefits and when to use them. TRX Weight options: 20, 40 pounds | Adjustment options: Shoulder and waist straps | Materials: Neoprene, polyethylene, polyester The Hexgrip Weighted Vest from TRX is unique in that it can be quite heavy, yet it isn't that bulky. The vest comes in 20- and 40-pound options, yet even when loaded with its full complement of weights (which come in one-pound increments for the 20-pound vest and two-pounders for the heavier option), the vest will have minimal impact on your rage of motion, as it leaves your arms free to move and sits quite snugly on the body. The vest does so thanks to adjustable straps at both the shoulders and waist, so it can be adjusted to suit various torso shapes and sizes. That secure fit also ensures even distribution of the weight, so your balance won't be thrown off while you wear it. While this vest is a bit too bulky for comfortable wear during all workouts, such as sprints, trail runs or some HIIT work (High Intensity Interval Training) it will work quite well for walks or jogs, squats or deadlifts, pull-ups or pushups and many other types of exercise, especially those reliant on bodyweight training. Just make sure to secure each individual weight in its pocket with care, as some verified users of the Hexgrip vest have reported weights slipping out of place during exercise. Amazon Weight options: 6, 8, 10, 12, 20 pounds | Adjustment options: Chest straps | Materials: Neoprene, polyester This weighted vest from ProsourceFit won't be a hit to your bank account, but it will be a hit with anyone looking to add some weight to their workouts. Its minimalist design makes the vest a good choice for use on long walks, and the mesh pouch on the back of the vest can be used to stash a phone, keys or an energy bar. That said, it does tend to bounce around easily, largely because of the elasticity of the shoulder straps, so if you're looking for a weighted vest for use during runs or highly active exercise, shop on. The vest features two chest straps—one a bit above the belly and one at the sternum—that can be used to create a secure fit for most people, and the fact that the weight comes from sand spread out in various pockets means an even and comfortable distribution of weight. Some people have reported that the stitching wears out on some parts of the vest after extended use, so if you're looking for a weighted vest you can use often, for a long time to come, you may want to consider one that's more expensive but potentially more durable. Omorpho Weight options: 10 pounds | Adjustment options: Shoulder straps, side cinch cords | Materials: Rubber, polyester The G-Vest from Omorpho is so flexible and pliant that you can wear it during almost any exercise, including those with a lot of high-speed motion. It's a great choice to use during sprint training, high intensity interval exercise, bodyweight workouts or as you deadlift or squat. The vest is so comfortable you may well forget you're even wearing it at times. Small steel ball bearings are spread out evenly across the vest, so it feels balanced and without added bulk, while adjustable shoulder straps and cinch cords at your sides allow for a snug, secure fit. At 10 pounds, this vest doesn't add a lot of weight, but if you wear it all the time when you're training, you'll feel the difference when it's time to go for a run or complete a workout without it. The G-Vest is an expensive weighted vest to be sure, but it just might be the most comfortable and least restrictive training vest you ever own. Amazon Weight options: 2 through 20 pounds | Adjustment options: Shoulder straps, waist belt | Materials: Neoprene, polyester This weighted training vest from Sportneer lets you select the amount of weight you strap onto yourself, and you can adjust that weight by two-pound increments up to 20 pounds. (The company also offers an adjustable weight vest with a 40-pound capacity.) This is a bit bulkier of a vest and won't be great for running or HIIT, but for walks or bodyweight exercise, it's a great choice that you can use to keep upping the challenge as you get into ever better shape. And because the vest has reflective elements on the front and back, it's a good choice for those nighttime walks. The vest zips on easily and can be adjusted for a tighter fit with shoulder straps and a waistband. It can be secured to torsos as small as 28 inches around, or as big as 55 inches around, so chances are good that it will fit your body. Amazon Weight options: 10 to 16 pounds | Adjustment options: Side straps | Materials: Neoprene, polyester This weighted vest from Empower was specifically designed with the female body in mind. And in fact, it was designed for women by women. The vest easily and comfortably fits the contours of a woman's body and can be adjusted for a perfect fit thanks to side straps set below the bust but well above the waist. The weight can be adjusted from 1o to 16 pounds (there is also an option for a non-adjustable eight-pound vest from Empower), so you can tailor your challenge based on your exercise goals for the day. It's an especially good idea for women in or approaching middle age to wear a weighted vest like this for a portion of each day, as the added pressure on bones leads to greater bone density and better bone health over time, helping to allay the all-too-common issues of osteoporosis. You can wear a weighted vest while going hard at the gym, but you can also benefit from wearing one as you stroll the neighborhood or play with the kids. Amazon Weight options: 30, 40, 60, 80 pounds | Adjustment options: Side straps, shoulder straps | Materials: PolyesterIf you're looking to add some serious weight to your workout routine, like the kind of weight one might use when training for a strongman competition, wrestling and martial arts, or an extreme undertaking like a remote mountaineering expedition, this weighted vest from ZFOsports is a great choice. With the ability to carry up to 80 pounds, it makes workouts much more challenging, and you can start with less weight and work up to the max over time. It can take a while to get this vest dialed in, according to reviews from many verified buyers, but once you get the weights placed where you want them (more weight in the back works better for running, for example) and get the straps cinched just right, it will stay secure on your torso and enhance every workout. Plus, there's a spot for securing a water bottle to the front of the vest and a pocket for a phone, keys and snacks, so you can stay hydrated and lightly equipped while you're heavily weighted. The Forbes Vetted gear team never recommends any products without throughly evaluating them first, which means hands-on testing, research, conversations with experts and in-depth reading of reviews and ratings left online by confirmed buyers. From massage guns to compression boots to walking and running shoes, we seek out only the best products to help you live your best life. To find the best weighted vests, we performed product research, consulted with experts and drew upon our experience using weighted vests and other fitness equipment. There's a sweet spot when it comes to proper weighted vest fit: You need one that fits snugly onto your torso so it doesn't shift and jostle as you move, but it can't be so tight as to be restrictive. 'You want a vest that is snug and form-fitting so that it's comfortable and won't shift during your workouts,' says Kennedy. 'At the same time, it's important to find a vest that is not overly restrictive in terms of movement or blood flow. It's a fine line but one that can make or break a weighted-vest workout.' Using a weighted vest properly does not mean loading it with as you can manage. In fact, often going with lighter weight that allows for more vigorous exercise is the better move. And lighter weight is key when you're first starting off with vests. 'When it comes to best-use practices, it's really important to ease into using a weighted vest rather than strapping on the heaviest one you can find," says Veal. 'Start with a lighter weight which is around five to 10% of your bodyweight.' The best weighted vest for someone training for a weight lifting competition may be a terrible choice for someone training for a half marathon, and vice versa. 'To use weighted vests effectively, consider if you're doing bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups and squats, or strength circuits or brisk walks,' says Pruitt. Consider the flexibility, weight capacity and adjustment features of any weighted vest you are considering. If you are torn between two weighted vests and can't decide which is the right one for you, look beyond the basics of weight and fit, and consider any special features. These can include things like high-visibility reflective elements that improve safety while out for a jog or walk at night, a pocket for a phone or energy bar and a water bottle pouch. Many weighted vests feature little extras like these that might just make them the best pick for you. A weighted vest can positively impact bodyweight and cardio exercises. 'Whether you're doing push-ups, squats, lunges or even just going for a brisk walk, the extra resistance can challenge you without throwing off your movement patterns,' says Veal. Wearing a weighted vest increases the load put on your bones, stimulating bone remodeling. This process involves the breakdown of old bone tissue and the formation of new, stronger bone. Gains are usually most pronounced in the spine and hips. No, in fact most experts recommend against wearing weighted vests for long periods of time. They are best worn for periods of less than an hour, and with long breaks in between sessions. When used properly, a weighted vest is a great addition to your workout routines and overall healthy lifestyle.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I've Been Walking With a Weighted Vest for Months—Here's How It's Worked for Me
At 49, Leah Pucciarelli is going through perimenopause. But unlike many other women her age, she's managed to avoid the many symptoms that typically come with it. Her secret? A weighted vest. 🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊 Weighted vests are the latest fitness trend taking over social media, offering a way to tone your body without stepping foot in a gym. They typically cost between $30 and $60, depending on the weight, and unlike bulky equipment like a Peloton bike, they're compact enough to wear under a jacket. And that's exactly what Pucciarelli has been doing since she got hers last Christmas. "I love walking, and I love the idea that I can continue to do my walk for relaxation and being outside, and then add the weight to it," she tells Parade. "It's a combination of strength training and walking."Since adding a weighted vest to her daily walks, Pucciarelli says she's seen and felt noticeable changes in her body. Below, she shares her story and offers advice for other perimenopausal women who are curious about trying For months, Pucciarelli has incorporated weighted walks into her routine, typically walking 45 minutes to an hour around her neighborhood. "My neighborhood has some nice hills, and when I wear the vest, I feel a really good workout in my lower body," she says. Now that the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer, she's been walking daily, aiming for at least four to five weighted walks each week. One of the biggest selling points for Pucciarelli was that the weight on the vest was adjustable, which helped ease her initial hesitation. "The vest itself is 4 pounds with six 1-pound sandbags you can add or take out. I thought, 'Well, it's 4 pounds.' I can handle 4 pounds," she explains. Since the winter, Pucciarelli has gradually built up to a 10-pound weighted vest. Related: Pucciarelli has always been an active person, working as a yoga instructor and regularly going to the gym. She's also an avid walker, but now nearing 50, she was concerned about the muscle loss and joint pain many women experience during menopause. Adding the weighted vest has helped her increase bone density and improve overall strength. The vest has also helped her maintain better posture and reduce stress on her neck and shoulders. "I feel like I'm walking around my neighborhood with a weighted blanket that forces the shoulders down," Pucciarelli explains. Wearing the weighted vest on her walks has strengthened her core muscles, including her abs. Her glutes and quads have also gotten stronger thanks to her overall fitness routine and the added resistance from the vest. Staying active has helped lower her stress levels and may be one reason she's avoided the more unpleasant symptoms of perimenopause. "I don't really have symptoms other than forgetfulness," she says. "Though I believe there's a lot that goes into it, and it's a whole healthy lifestyle."Related: Research has shown that weighted vests can be effective in reducing fat mass. That's because they increase physiological stress, meaning your heart beats faster, your breathing speeds up and your body burns more energy to maintain your usual walking one study, participants who wore weighted vests equal to 11% of their body weight for eight hours a day over three weeks lost more weight than those wearing vests with just 1% added weight. That said, even just 5% extra weight can yield results and is often recommended for beginners, since it doesn't put too much strain on muscles or joints. Weighted vests may also help with maintaining bone health. A well-known older study actually helped popularize their use, since it found that postmenopausal women who regularly wore weighted vests for five years were able to prevent bone loss. Other research has shown that weighted vests can reduce the loss of hip bone mineral density and encourage bone formation in older adults with obesity. That being said, weighted vests aren't right for everybody. People with back or neck issues may find that the added weight worsens their pain, since the vest puts eople with back or neck issues might worsen their pain since weighted vests put pressure on the spine. Related: If you're thinking about trying a weighted vest, Pucciarelli recommends choosing one with adjustable weight, like hers, which ranges from 4 to 10 pounds. A general rule of thumb is to start with a vest that's about 10% of your body weight. It's also important to ease into the routine. Pucciarelli suggests getting used to the feel of the added weight by wearing the vest during shorter walks, or even around the house, before heading out for longer strolls. While it may be tempting to keep increasing the weight, Pucciarelli cautions against going over that 10% mark to avoid potential injuries. 'Ten pounds is about that for me because I'm petite,' she explains. 'So I'll just walk longer with it and save the heavy strength training for the gym.' By sticking to her routine of weighted walks, Pucciarelli has been able to maintain her active lifestyle without stressing about perimenopause, and is currently using the vest to train for an upcoming hiking trip to Iceland. "I know I'll be carrying a backpack often, and I'm hoping that by wearing my weighted vest in the weeks leading up to the trip, I'll be stronger and better prepared," she says. Up Next:Leah Pucciarelli is a yoga instructor and founder at Living Well With Leah. Increased weight loading reduces body weight and body fat in obese subjects – A proof of concept randomized clinical trial. eClinicalMedicine. Weighted vests in CrossFit increase physiological stress during walking and running without changes in spatiotemporal gait parameters. Egonomics. Long-term Exercise Using Weighted Vests Prevents Hip Bone Loss in Postmenopausal Women. The Journals of Gerontology Series A. Weighted Vest Use during Dietary Weight Loss on Bone Health in Older Adults with Obesity. Journal of Osteoporosis & Physical Activity. Wearable weights: How they can help or hurt. Harvard Health Publishing.
