Can Wearing Weighted Vests Improve Your Workout? Insights from a Medical Expert

Adding extra weight through vests has become a popular method for those looking to enhance their workouts. Yet, concerns about safety remain.

According to Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS News' chief medical correspondent, weighted vests can lead to increased calorie burning and put additional demands on the heart. Individuals should exercise caution, particularly if they have pre-existing health conditions.

"Vests are popular for boosting calorie burn," Dr. LaPook explained. "Anything that motivates people to exercise is beneficial. However, it can act like a minor stress test on your heart. Therefore, consulting a doctor is wise if you have any medical concerns."

Although research remains indecisive regarding bone health benefits, Dr. LaPook mentioned that weighted vests might assist in muscle strengthening and fall prevention, though they could also destabilize balance.

He advised attentiveness to bodily signals: "If an activity causes pain or results in a fall, avoid it."

The duration for using a weighted vest varies widely. It's best to start with weights equating to 5% of your body weight, progressively increasing both duration and frequency.

For instance, if you weigh 100 pounds, begin with a 5-pound vest and wear it briefly. Gradually, you might extend usage up to several hours while walking or limit it to 10 or 15 minutes.

Ensuring the vest fits correctly is crucial to minimizing strain on joints.

"Injury prevention is key," Dr. LaPook emphasized. "Sports specialists informed me that incorrectly fitting vests can pressure joints like the knees, ankles, and hips."