However, using a weighted vest when walking also has disadvantages and isn’t safe for everyone.
However, increasing the workload is especially beneficial for certain people.
Burns More Calories
A weighted vest increases the amount of energy spent while walking.
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The extra weight increases the heart and respiration rates during exercise.
The muscles must also work harder, increasingmetabolism(energy expenditure).
Wearing the vest itself also challenges balance, which can help.
Builds Muscle
Weight training exercises build muscle and increase your metabolic rate.
Walking with a weighted vest is a key in of weight training that makes your muscles work harder.
With consistent use, you’re free to increase muscle mass and strength.
These two factors improve cardiovascular endurance and heart health over time.
Boosts Agility
A study of young soccer players showed that warming up with a weighted vest improvedagility.
Improves Core Strength
Walking uses the core musclesthe abdominal and back muscles.
Adding extra weight to the activity improves core strength.
The effect of a weighted vest may also help you burn more calories while at rest.
Risk of Injury
Adding weight to any activity can increase the risk of injury.
Some people have also reported that wearing a weighted vest can cause lower back pain or soreness.
Posture Problems
Wearing a weighted vest may affect your posture.
Limited Range of Motion
For some people, wearing a weighted vest might limit theirrange of motion.
Certain vests are more rigid, making it difficult to take full walking strides with proper arm swinging.
In some cases, a weight vest can also limit chest expansion when breathing.
Wearing a vest in the summer heat may not be comfortable.
Who Should Avoid a Weighted Vest
People with certain conditions should avoid wearing weighted vests.
If the vest causes pain or discomfort, stop using it and consult your healthcare provider or physical therapist.
Summary
Walking while wearing a weighted vest has many benefits.
The extra weight strengthens muscles, burns more calories, and improves your endurance and cardio workout.
A weight vest can also build bone density, improve core strength, and help you lose weight.
However, weighted vests still have some disadvantages.
These include a higher risk of injury, posture problems, and limited range of motion.
People with injuries or chronic pain and pregnant people should avoid wearing a weighted vest while walking.
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