Do Weighted Vests Improve Athletic Performance?

17 minutes read

Weighted vests are commonly used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to increase the intensity of their workouts and improve their overall performance. Adding extra weight to the body can increase strength, endurance, and resistance during various exercises such as running, jumping, and bodyweight movements.


Wearing a weighted vest during workouts can help to improve cardiovascular fitness, increase muscle mass, and enhance overall athletic performance. The added resistance challenges the body to work harder, leading to greater physical gains over time.


However, it is important to use weighted vests with caution and gradually increase the amount of weight in order to prevent injuries. It is also recommended to consult with a fitness professional before incorporating weighted vests into a workout routine, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or injuries.


Overall, when used properly, weighted vests can be a beneficial tool for improving athletic performance and achieving fitness goals.

Best Weighted Vests of November 2024

1
RUNFast RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest, 40 lb, Black

Rating is 5 out of 5

RUNFast RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest, 40 lb, Black

  • Weights Are Adjustable In 4 Lbs. Increments, Max Weight Is 40 Lbs.
  • One Size Fits All Sizes
  • One Piece Design With Belt Attached Onto The Vest For Easy Setup
2
RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black

  • WEIGHTS COME INCLUDED - Weights can be added or removed at any time for any workouts
  • FEATURES - Phone Pocket and Water Bottle Holder included for your convenience.
  • DURABILITY- LIFETIME INCLUDED. We stand behind our products so you can workout worry free.
  • SHOULDER PADS OPTION: The option to add extra shoulder comfort if needed.
3
ZELUS Weighted Vest 12lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe for Workout, Strength Training, Running, Fitness, Muscle Building, Weight Loss, Weightlifting

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

ZELUS Weighted Vest 12lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe for Workout, Strength Training, Running, Fitness, Muscle Building, Weight Loss, Weightlifting

  • PREMIUM MATERIAL: This strength training weight vest is built to last with durable neoprene rubber fabric, double-stitching, and weighted with iron sand for extreme durability through hundreds of different workouts.
  • COMFORTABLE MATERIAL: Enjoy your workout in complete comfort with maximum mobility. With cushioned shoulder straps and gentle, non-chafing fabrics, you can go the extra mile in your personal fitness journey with ease and comfort!
  • EVEN WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION: Evenly filled with iron sand, this well-balanced vest decreases injury risk while working out.
4
APEXUP Weighted Vest Men 10lbs Weights with Reflective Stripe, Weighted vest for Women Workout Equipment for Strength Training Running (Black)

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

APEXUP Weighted Vest Men 10lbs Weights with Reflective Stripe, Weighted vest for Women Workout Equipment for Strength Training Running (Black)

  • [BOOST YOUR WORKOUT] APEXUP weighted vest is perfect for adding an extra challenge to your workout routine. The added resistance will help build strength, endurance, and improve overall fitness.
  • [VERSATILE USE] Whether you're training for a specific sport or looking to improve your overall fitness, our weighted vest for women and weighted vest for kids are perfect for all types of exercises, including running, hiking, strength training, and more.
  • [APEXUP COMMITMENT] We stand behind the quality of our products. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us. We provide 30-day money back and 12 months warranty. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for risk-free shopping!
5
Henkelion Weighted Vest Weight Vest for Men Women Kids Weights Included, Body Weight Vests Adjustable for Running, Training Workout, Jogging, Walking

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Henkelion Weighted Vest Weight Vest for Men Women Kids Weights Included, Body Weight Vests Adjustable for Running, Training Workout, Jogging, Walking

  • ATTENTION - The elastic of this vest should be at the waist. Please look carefully at the direction of wear on the pictures
  • IRON PELLETS & METAL ROCK - Henkelion weighted vest is filled with premium iron pellets and metal rock rather than using cheap river sand
  • COMFORT MATERIAL & CONVENIENT POCKET - Our weighted body vests is made of soft neoprene material and mesh pocket on the back to save room to add extra weight
6
ZELUS Weighted Vest for Men and Women | 4-10lb/11-20lb/20-32lb Vest with 6 Ironsand Weights for Home Workouts | Adjustable Body Weight Vest Exercise Set for Cardio and Strength Training (4-10 lb.)

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

ZELUS Weighted Vest for Men and Women | 4-10lb/11-20lb/20-32lb Vest with 6 Ironsand Weights for Home Workouts | Adjustable Body Weight Vest Exercise Set for Cardio and Strength Training (4-10 lb.)

  • ADJUSTABLE ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Our weighted vest evenly distributes its load even during intense workouts, with its hook-and-loop fasteners offering a snug fit for teens or adults
  • DURABLE & COMFORTABLE: Our soft neoprene material gives you long-lasting comfort combined with long-lasting use, able to handle everything from yoga positions to kickboxing, light jogging to intense cycling
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Zelus's adjustable weighted vest comes with our usual strong warranty and friendly 24/7 customer service; try it at no risk and blow through any plateau with ease!
7
Gymnastics Power - Weighted Vest 6lb, 10lb, 12lb, 25lb, 35lb, 45lb Removable Iron Weights for Men and Women Workout for Calisthenics and Fitness Sport Training (60 LB - Black)

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Gymnastics Power - Weighted Vest 6lb, 10lb, 12lb, 25lb, 35lb, 45lb Removable Iron Weights for Men and Women Workout for Calisthenics and Fitness Sport Training (60 LB - Black)

  • NEXT-LEVEL WORKOUTS - calisthenics, running, military preparation, fireman training or any fitness activity becomes more effective and efficient.
  • MINIMALIST ELITE DESIGN - This vest is designed to sit snug, hugging you naturally even during inverted exercises, static holds, and sprints while still providing the ultimate range of motion.
  • SCALE YOUR WORKOUTS - With your weighted vest you'll gain strength and seamlessly progress from beginner to advanced.
8
Cross101 Adjustable Camouflage Weighted Vest with Shoulder Pads, 20 lb

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Cross101 Adjustable Camouflage Weighted Vest with Shoulder Pads, 20 lb

  • Weights Included
9
Prodigen Running Weight Vest for Men Women Kids 16 Lbs, Body Weight Vests for Training Workout, Jogging, Cardio, Walking Elite Adjustable Weighted Vest Workout Equipment-Blue,16lbs

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Prodigen Running Weight Vest for Men Women Kids 16 Lbs, Body Weight Vests for Training Workout, Jogging, Cardio, Walking Elite Adjustable Weighted Vest Workout Equipment-Blue,16lbs

  • ATTENTION - The elastic of this vest should be at the waist. Please look carefully at the direction of wear on the pictures.
  • MADE TO LAST - Made of premium chloroprene rubber for comfort, this weighted vest stays super rigid, breathable, soft and elastic even under extreme conditions, ideal for all sports lovers.
  • FINE CRAFTSMANSHIP - Double stitches craftsmanship prevent sand leakage; thickened & widened shoulder delivers weight evenly and avoid shoulder fatigue, delighting your workout with ultimate convenience.
10
CAP Barbell (HHWV-CB020C) Adjustable Weighted Vest, 20-Pound,20 Pound, Black

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

CAP Barbell (HHWV-CB020C) Adjustable Weighted Vest, 20-Pound,20 Pound, Black

  • Adjustable conditioning vest with steel-shot weight packets, weighing approximately 1 lb
  • Helps you gain strength and burn additional calories
  • Adds up to 20 pounds of resistance
  • Neoprene padding for comfort; Integrated pocket for cell phone
  • The vest is made with breathable mesh with adjustable clips to match your body type


How to use a weighted vest for resistance training exercises?

Using a weighted vest for resistance training exercises can help increase the intensity of your workout and build strength. Here's how you can use a weighted vest effectively:

  1. Start by selecting a weighted vest that is appropriate for your fitness level and goals. The weight of the vest can typically be adjusted by adding or removing weighted plates.
  2. Choose exercises that will benefit from the added resistance of the weighted vest, such as bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, squats, lunges, and planks.
  3. Wear the weighted vest securely and comfortably, making sure it fits snugly against your body to prevent any shifting or discomfort during your workout.
  4. Begin by performing your chosen exercises with proper form and technique, focusing on controlled movements and engaging the targeted muscles.
  5. Start with a lower weight and gradually increase the resistance as you build strength and endurance over time.
  6. Incorporate the weighted vest into your regular workout routine, using it for a variety of exercises to challenge different muscle groups and keep your workouts varied and effective.
  7. Remember to listen to your body and adjust the weight and intensity of your exercises as needed to prevent injury and promote progress.
  8. After your workout, properly clean and store your weighted vest to ensure its longevity and effectiveness for future workouts.


What is the role of breathing techniques when training with a weighted vest?

Breathing techniques play a crucial role when training with a weighted vest. Proper breathing helps to oxygenate the muscles, improve endurance, and maintain proper form during exercises.


Some key breathing techniques to keep in mind when training with a weighted vest include:

  1. Deep breathing: Taking deep breaths helps to maximize oxygen intake and improve stamina while working out with the added resistance of a weighted vest.
  2. Focus on exhaling during the exertion phase: When performing exercises with a weighted vest, such as squats or lunges, it's important to exhale during the exertion phase to help stabilize the core and maintain proper form.
  3. Maintain a consistent breathing rhythm: Establishing a consistent breathing rhythm helps to regulate heart rate and keep a steady flow of oxygen to the muscles, optimizing performance and reducing fatigue.
  4. Practice diaphragmatic breathing: Engaging the diaphragm, rather than shallow chest breathing, can help improve overall lung capacity and endurance during weighted vest training.


Overall, mastering proper breathing techniques can enhance the effectiveness of your workouts with a weighted vest, allowing you to push yourself further and achieve your fitness goals more efficiently.


How to properly fit a weighted vest for optimal performance?

  1. Choose the right weight: Start by selecting a weighted vest that is appropriate for your fitness level. Beginners may want to start with a lighter weight and gradually increase as they become more comfortable.
  2. Adjust the straps: Make sure the vest fits snugly against your body. Adjust the straps to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The vest should not bounce or shift during movement.
  3. Check the weight distribution: Make sure the weight is evenly distributed across the front and back of the vest. This will help prevent any strain or imbalance during exercise.
  4. Test it out: Before starting your workout, perform a few basic movements to ensure the weighted vest is comfortable and properly fitted. Make any necessary adjustments before continuing with your routine.
  5. Start slowly: If you are new to using a weighted vest, start with lighter weights and gradually increase as you become more comfortable. Listen to your body and only increase weight as you feel ready.
  6. Consult a professional: If you are unsure about how to properly fit a weighted vest, consider seeking guidance from a fitness professional. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your fitness goals and abilities.


What is the recommended frequency for using a weighted vest to see improvements in athletic performance?

There is no single recommended frequency for using a weighted vest to see improvements in athletic performance as it can vary depending on the individual's fitness level, goals, and overall training program. However, it is generally recommended to start with using a weighted vest 1-2 times per week for shorter durations (e.g. 20-30 minutes) and gradually increase the frequency and duration as the body adapts to the added weight. It is important to listen to your body and not overdo it, as using a weighted vest too frequently or for too long can lead to overtraining and potential injury. Consulting with a fitness professional or coach can also help tailor a weighted vest training program to individual needs and goals.


How to avoid overtraining when using a weighted vest for athletic performance?

  1. Gradually increase the weight: Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase it over time to allow your body to adapt to the added resistance.
  2. Pay attention to your body: Listen to your body and pay attention to any signs of fatigue, muscle soreness, or decreased performance. Allow for rest and recovery days as needed.
  3. Incorporate rest days: Make sure to schedule rest days into your training program to allow your body time to recover and repair. It is during rest that your muscles actually grow stronger.
  4. Cross-train: Mix up your training routine with different types of exercises and activities to prevent overuse injuries and mental burnout.
  5. Focus on proper nutrition: Fuel your body with the right nutrients to support your training and recovery. Make sure you are consuming enough calories, protein, and carbohydrates to fuel your workouts and repair muscle tissue.
  6. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to recover and repair from your workouts.
  7. Monitor your progress: Keep track of your training progress and performance with a training log or app to ensure you are not pushing yourself too hard.
  8. Consult a coach or trainer: If you are unsure about your training program or how to properly incorporate a weighted vest, consult a coach or trainer who can help tailor a plan to your specific fitness goals and needs.
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