If you’re looking to incorporate light strength training into your workout routine but dumbbells just aren’t for you, ankle weights may be the perfect alternative. They're much lighter than most free weights, and they let you keep your hands free for other activities.
It’s important to find a material, weight and style of ankle weight that’s right for you and your workout routine. In general, though, the comfortable Yes4All Ankle Weights are ideal for home workouts.
Ankle weights work in a number of ways.
You can do a variety of workouts with a quality set of ankle weights.
You can find ankle weights in a range of sizes from one to 10 pounds. Choosing the right weight for your skill level and body type is arguably the most important decision you have to make when purchasing ankle weights. Be sure to find a pair that’s heavy enough to give you results, but not so heavy that you strain yourself. The average person should be comfortable with 1-to-5-pound weights.
Since you will probably be working up a sweat during your workouts, look for a water-resistant material for your ankle weights. You can commonly find weights made from materials like nylon or neoprene that are both comfortable and safe to get wet.
While your ankle weights' color doesn't influence their effectiveness, you may still want to match them to the rest of your workout gear. For outdoor workouts, look for a reflective material that catches the light.
To help guarantee you actually use them, be sure to find a pair of ankle weights that are comfortable to wear. Look for weights with a soft interior lining and padding that contours to the shape of your ankle.
Most ankle weights have adjustable Velcro closures and are designed to work like an adjustable belt. While both closures are effective, if you plan on doing vigorous workouts, belted styles are more likely to stay secure.
Expect to spend anywhere from $10-$55 on a set of ankle weights. The heavier the weight, the more you’re likely to pay. In addition, midrange to high-end sets are more likely to have comfortable padding.
A. Generally speaking, it’s always best to start small and work your way up. However, if you’re already an active exerciser, you can probably handle 5 pounds or more.
A. It’s often best to use a damp cloth to wipe down your ankle weights. In most cases, fully submerging them in water will cause damage and should be avoided. For the best results, always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
What you should know: This is a comfortable, sleek set of ankle weight cuffs, ideal for those with smaller slender ankles.
What you'll love: Their padded cuffs provide comfort and can be used on the wrists as well. There's an adjustable closure, and they're available in 1 to 5 pounds. They're perfect for light at-home training.
What you should consider: They don't accommodate those with larger ankles.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
CAP Barbell Adjustable Ankle Weights
What you should know: This is a comfortable pair of cuffs with a secure attachment, ideal for people with average ankle sizes.
What you'll love: The Velcro closure is effective, and the material is comfortable and doesn’t irritate the skin. Each cuff weighs 5 pounds, but that can be reduced by removing individual weights.
What you should consider: They might be too small for some.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Prodigen Adjustable Ankle Weights
What you should know: This quality pair of ankle and wrist weight cuffs can be used in a variety of workouts.
What you'll love: They're available in weights ranging from 1 pound to 7.5 pounds. Reducing the weight is easy, since you can remove individual weights.
What you should consider: Some reviewers complained that the material irritated their skin. Wearing long socks can prevent this.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Amber Van Wort writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
