Weighted Vests and Body Weights: What Are The Benefits?

Looking to add new layers to your fitness training? Weighted vests and body weights are an easy and effective way to raise the intensity and maximize results. Even if strength training isn't your workout style, changing up your fitness routine can be a good habit to get into. By modifying your workout, you’ll place different strains on your body, which can help improve your strength and conditioning. For these reasons, weighted vests and body weights can be great additions to help you achieve your fitness goals for anyone looking to improve their overall health.

WHAT ARE WEIGHTED VESTS AND BODY WEIGHTS?

Weighted vests and body weights are weights that can be worn while performing your workout. The weight levels may vary, we recommend starting at 5% of total body weight, and up to 10%  through conditioning. Weighted vests like Power WearHouse Weighted Vest also accommodate extra bars or plates for added weight. The more weight you use, the higher your workout intensity. These tools are useful for body weight exercises, plyometrics, and cardiovascular training. Some athletes even use weighted vests in sport-specific training for activities like basketball and tennis. Before strapping on the extra pounds, it’s important to understand the benefits.

THE BENEFITS OF WEIGHTED WORKOUTS

There are several advantages to adding additional weight to your fitness routine. Firstly, the additional load can help in developing strength and endurance by increasing your body weight. Secondly, adding weight can influence the ways your muscles are stressed and strained during workouts. By adding it, more force is exerted which, in turn, leads to faster muscle exhaustion. Both experiences can also affect your breathing pattern and how much oxygen you take in as you progress through your workout. Stressed muscles, increased breathing, and exhausted muscles may sound negative for progress. But they are, actually, key to making significant changes. As your body learns and adjusts to these factors, your strength and will turn up positive results. Lastly, adding additional weight can increase variety in your workouts. With weighted vests, you can mix up the stresses placed on your muscles throughout your session. Plus, the added body weight can be useful in multiple exercise sectors. From plyometric movements to body weight exercises to even simply walking, using weighted vests can mix up most training programs and keep things fresh.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE STARTING

Just like any other addition to your regime, there are a few things you should consider before starting. We recommend speaking with your physician prior to training to ensure your health is in good standing, as more weight will add additional strain. Be sure to take into consideration your personal fitness level before using any weighted vest or body weight. As performing exercises without proper conditioning can lead to injury. Upon getting the green light, start with no more than 5% of your total body weight. This is especially true for workouts that significantly increase heart rate, like cardio. Something else to think about is whether a weighted vest or body weight is needed for your workout. A weighted vest isn't necessary for body isolation like biceps or triceps. They're more suited for full-body workouts and general heightened activity.  Always have a primary focus on proper form and technique before adding another variable into the mix. Remember, weighted vests and body weights are tools designed to help, not create barriers. In a nutshell, weighted vests and body weights can be an effective and exciting add-on to your exercise routine. Use these tips to weigh in on your fitness needs and see if weighted vests or body weights are a helpful addition to your workout style.