Walking lunges with weights

I would use the two 10lbs DB to do the walking lunges, but when you do it keep your core tight and do deep lunges you will still feel the burn!

rileyes wrote: »

I have been doing single-arm farmers walking lunges with a 15lb kettlebell. I do 28 walking lunges (each side) and 28 w/KB overhead (w/crunches between each) ending with KB swings. My question is, would it be better to hold a 10lb DB in each hand for the walking lunges? Or is the single-arm KB equivalent with better core work?

My space is not ideal to be walking with a barbell (bumping into things and unstable surface) so that is not an option.
(Edit: I only have one 15lb KB and two 10lb DBs)

It really depends on what you want to accomplish. If your goal of doing lunges is to improve strength in your legs, hips, and glutes, then do the lunges with a DB or KB in each hand. This will keep you more balanced so you can focus on loading your legs; of course your core muscles will get some work as well. If you need to focus on your Core a little more, then single-arm carries are a great way to work on it as you have to stabilize yourself from being pulled to one side by the weight. Training economy is good but sometimes it can be overdone to an extent. The walking lunge is excellent for strengthening your legs and you should use weight that allows you to really push those muscles.

rileyes wrote: »

Thanks all. I am about to do the routine with 10lb DBs (keeping a tight core). I began with the farmers walks (kettlebell) for shoulder health and grip strength. I'll see if there is a big difference.

And as far as thighs?--totally slimming and defining. It will take a lot more weight to make them thunderous --alas, one day.

I do various carries myself and I think you'll notice a difference by doing them with one arm at a time. Different overhead variations with a DB/KB or even a BB are pretty challenging and "fun".

There is no right or wrong answer. Balanced carries would theoretically allow you to drive harder and focus more on the legs; unbalanced carries will engage your core to a greater degree. The differences will be modest at best. Keep in mind that, even with increased core activation, the effect of enhanced core activation will plateau over time as your body adapts to the movement. This is especially true if you use the same weights and holds. So don't get too hung up on the details, or which is "best". Do a variety of things to keep it interesting.