Ankle weights?

Jolie1971
Jolie1971 Posts: 51
in Fitness and Exercise
Are they worth it to buy? I like to walk a lot and was wondering if it would be a good idea to purchase these. I also do a lot of Jillian Michael's DVD's and xcountry ski and ice skate in the winter. Thought these would give me more of a workout.

Thanks!

Replies

  • jaygreen55
    jaygreen55 Posts: 315 Member
    According to my orthopedic surgeon you should never run or walk wearing ankle weights as you can severely damage your knees and/or low back They can be very useful in the gym to add intensity to core and leg workouts workouts
  • Jolie1971
    Jolie1971 Posts: 51
    Good to know. Thanks for replying!
  • schmenge55
    schmenge55 Posts: 745 Member
    I agree with the person that responded that weights for "motion" activities are not a good thing. They are good though for "resistance" exercises. For example if I am doing leg lifts then I will add the weights to make the exercise more challenging
  • NaomiJFoster
    NaomiJFoster Posts: 1,450 Member
    Having weights on your ankles can damage your joints, as others have said. It also can make you more prone to accidents, in that you'll have more difficulty catching your balance if you stumble or get your feet tangled.

    If you want to add intensity to a walk, try holding light handweights or wearing a weighted vest or put some light weights in a backpack. Just carrying the weight along with you makes you have to work harder (which is what I think you're intention is).
  • Heyyleigh
    Heyyleigh Posts: 268 Member
    Dont do it, its miserable. I bought them for the ankles and wrist and never wear them. just increase your speed and incline- thats enough. Especially in the winter time when all we have is the treadmill. Once you can get out - Hiking is great!!! ;)
    They dont cost alot so u could certainly try it, but I hated them. I also tried walking with the hand weights, but I get too off balance... little clumsy.

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