Are ankle weights good?

Asked by: Srikanth Adamson

Answer From Edward R. Laskowski, M.D. Ankle weights generally aren’t recommended for brisk walking. Although ankle weights can increase the energy you burn while walking, they may strain the ankle joint and leg muscles, which could increase your risk of injury.

When should I use ankle weights?

Consider adding ankle weights when doing slower walks for enhanced movement quality. Only wear ankle weights for limited periods to avoid overuse injuries and imbalances. Don’t exceed 3% of your body weight in ankle weights. Incrementally increase the weight to avoid overuse injuries.

Is it OK to wear ankle weights all day?

Wearing ankle weights does have its benefits like added cardio, increased endurance, and muscle growth. It’s something that can be integrated into workouts to make them more effective. But when wearing ankle weights all day, there is a higher risk of injury especially when you strain yourself.

Do ankle weights help you build muscle?

Ankle weights are also versatile, as they can intensify stationary workouts and cardio. Adding the resistance of ankle weights to your workout helps you build muscles in the legs, which can make them grow larger.

What do ankle weights actually do?

The Purpose of Ankle Weights



Ankle weights attach to the area just above your ankle joint to provide added weight to your leg motions. The point of the extra weight is to increase the strength of your glutes, quadriceps and calve muscles due to the additional resistance, resulting in an increased muscle mass over time.

Do ankle weights slim your legs?

Ankle weights are one of the most essential tools in creating toned, lean legs and a lifted butt. The added weight allows the muscles to activate and work just hard enough to become prominent without breaking down and bulking, allowing you to feel muscles that you normally keep dormant.

Do ankle weights grow glutes?

The Benefits of Ankle Weights



If used correctly, they can help strengthen your calves, quadriceps, and glutes, says Benner. They can also create more resistance in your exercises and force you to consider the importance of body alignment when you perform certain movements.

Are 1 pound ankle weights effective?

Ace Fitness says that 1 to 3 lb ankle weights worn on each ankle is the most favorable for enhancing your exercise. They can already increase the calorie burn rate by 5 to 15 percent. This set of ankle weights is the best choice for beginners too, especially if you are hitting the gym for the first time.

Is it OK to walk with ankle weights?

Ankle weights generally aren’t recommended for brisk walking. Although ankle weights can increase the energy you burn while walking, they may strain the ankle joint and leg muscles, which could increase your risk of injury. But brisk walking is a great way to fit in regular physical activity.

Do ankle weights help with ABS?

It makes the body exert and produce more force than what you are accustomed to without the weight. And in turn that's going to strengthen the core.

Do ankle weights work your core?

Trainer Amanda Shannon Verrengia said ankle weights can amp up lower-body or core workouts, but it’s best to skip them when it comes to cardio. “They’re great for leg lifts, V-ups, and bicycles because they force your core to work extra hard to keep your legs elevated,” Verrengia said.

Are 10 pound ankle weights too heavy?

If you’re using ankle weights to walk, keep them light-3 to 5 pounds max. Any more weight can alter your stride, placing stress on your low back and pelvis, says Olson. For specific exercises, you can use 5- to 10-pound weights on each leg (or less weight), but the right weight varies for everyone.