Should I wear a weighted vest?

I have been asked by many clients if they should wear a weight vest.

Ask anyone that knows me, and they’ll tell you that I often answer a question with a question of my own.

In this case, I’ll say “Why do you want to wear one?”

There are lots of benefits, but I want to see if the client knows what those benefits are, or if they’re simply following the crowd (or influencer).

Once we establish the “why,” I move on to other, just as important questions.

It’s important to make sure that the person has a sound physical foundation first. For example, do you have any joint problems (ankles, knees, hips, in particular)? Do you have foot problems (plantar fasciitis)? Any back pain? Shoulder or neck issues?

Next, it’s important to find out if the person walks now. If so, how far? How fast? Are there hills?

Lastly, I want to know what this person is currently doing for fitness. Are you sitting on the couch and then deciding to hike a mountain with a heavy weight vest or are you a consistent, experienced walker looking to take your workouts to the next level?

(At this point, the person is usually sorry they asked!)

If everything checks out, then I’ll give an enthusiastic “yes!”

Walking using a weight vest can improve cardiovascular health, increase bone density, and help your posture (if done correctly).

Personally, I love walking with weight on my back. I’ve been doing it for over a decade, and I’ve slowly built up to where I am now.

Once you decide to wear a vest while working (or household chores, for that matter), the next question is how much weight?

Typically 5% to 10% of your body weight is an appropriate starting point. As you get stronger, you can certainly progress further. For example, I put 50 pounds in my backpack when I go for my walks.

Bottom line, if your body is ready, I encourage you to get started!

Coach Dylan