What Are the Benefits of Ankle Weights?

If you're looking to rev up your workout, ankle weights are an easy answer. As with wrist weights and weighted vests, the added weight creates extra resistance, making your muscles work harder so you have better results.

Types

Velcro-closure ankle weights are filled with sand or other heavy material to the stated weight. Adjustable versions let you increase the weight as your endurance builds. There are also O-ring ankle weights that eliminate the slippage of Velcro-closure versions.

Size

Available in a variety of sizes (usually between two and 10 pounds), ankle weights are sold by total weight. For example, two-pound ankle weights would be two weights that each weigh one pound.

Benefits

Ankle weights will increase the calorie burn of your workout; not only will your quads and hamstrings be working harder, so will your cardiovascular system.

Warning

Ankle weights place extra strain on your ankles, which can result in injury. If you have joint problems, do not use ankle weights.

Considerations

To protect your joints, don't use ankle weights during every workout, and use them only during familiar workout routines.

References

• Los Angeles Times
• MayoClinic.com
• Galt

Resources

• Banglz.com
• Sports Unlimited Inc.