Best Ankle Weights of 2022
Types of Ankle Weights
There are generally two types of ankle weights: Solid, firm weights, or a softer type filled with sand or similar material, says Jason Kozma, certified fitness trainer and competitive bodybuilder. “The soft ones will have a flexible fabric texture and of course the Velcro fastener. The soft ones are generally lighter, and not as durable. At some point, one gets a hole in it and the sand starts running out. Of course, these are the most comfortable. The firm ones are usually heavier and will often be made of a faux leather material. The weight inside can be the same sand type material or metal plates.”
Incorporating Ankle Weights Into Your Workout
Kozma says ankle weights are best used for kneeling glute and hip exercises like kneeling abduction (doggie fire hydrant), kneeling feather kick and kneeling back kick. “This is a really good giant set to tone the glutes and or rehab the hips.” He says they are also useful for hip flexor exercises for martial artists or rehab. “When I did martial arts as a teenager, I didn’t have ankle weights so I would lift a dumbbell off the floor by hooking my foot under it and lifting straight up. This was to increase the strength and speed for initiating kicks.” Ankle weights can also be a good tool to help with gait issues, rehabilitation, and as part of a strength-building program, notes Kien Vuu, M.D. (a.k.a. Dr. V.), assistant professor of Health Sciences at UCLA; founder of VuuMD Performance and Longevity; author of Thrive State: Your Blueprint for Optimal Health, Longevity, and Peak Performance.
How to Choose the Best Ankle Weights
“In choosing ankle weights, they should be adjustable in both the amount of weight and their fit,” says Robert Herbst, personal trainer and championship powerlifter. “You want to be able to change the weight because you may use different weights for different movements or as you get stronger. Also, you don’t want them too heavy if you are walking with them because you may get tendinitis.”
What to Consider When Using Ankle Weights
While ankle weights can be a good way to boost the impact of certain exercises, they aren’t always the best option, trainers say. “While many people think using ankle weights during cardio sessions, like walking or aerobic dance classes, is a good idea, they should use caution,” says Aimee Nicotera, Health and Fitness Coach; MS, Health Education; Creator of E5 Collective Workout. “Although using ankle weights in this manner may increase caloric expenditure, the weights may strain the leg muscles and ankle joints improperly putting the user at increased risk of injury.” Nicotera says it’s a good idea to consult with a credentialed, certified fitness trainer when thinking about using ankle weights. “Depending on the client’s objective, the professional may be able to recommend an alternative strategy that is both effective and safe.” Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission; however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
Best Ankle Weights
Weider 10-Pound Adjustable Ankle Weights, $17.99 at Walmart
Weider is a well-known name in the fitness industry, meaning you can trust them to deliver quality products. These weights also offer the adjustability options trainers recommend. Weider 10-Pound Adjustable Ankle Weights, $17.99 at Walmart.com
Fuel Pureformance Adjustable Wrist/Ankle Weights, 20-lb Pair, $19.99 at Walmart
This set from Fuel Pureformance includes a pair of 10-pound weights with six removable weight pads, so you can easily adjust the weight as needed. Fuel Pureformance Adjustable Wrist/Ankle Weights, 20-lb Pair, $19.99 at Walmart
Tone Fitness Ankle/Wrist Weights, $4.59 at Walmart
These weights have a soft, stretchy material that makes them super comfortable while still ensuring a snug fit. The set includes two one-pound weights. Tone Fitness Ankle/Wrist Weights, $4.59, at Walmart
Athletic Works 3-lb Ankle/Wrist Weights, $10.86 at Walmart
The adjustable Velcro band on these Athletic Works weights lets you adapt them to your perfect fit. The set includes two weights of 1.5 pounds each. Athletic Works 3lb Ankle/Wrist Weights, $10.86 at Walmart
SPRI Adjustable Ankle Weights, $18.86 at Walmart
These SPRI ankle weights are available in a range of sizes (from 2.5 pounds each up to 10 pounds each), making them a good choice for people of all fitness levels. Online reviewers liked that they were easy to use, and also appreciated that the weight is distributed among multiple separate pouches. SPRI Adjustable Ankle Weights, $18.86 at Walmart Next up, find out what to eat for your strongest workout ever.
Sources:
Aimee Nicotera, Health and Fitness Coach; MS, Health Education; Creator of E5 Collective WorkoutRobert Herbst, personal trainer and championship powerlifterJason Kozma, certified fitness trainer and competitive bodybuilderKien Vuu, M.D. (a.k.a. Dr. V.), assistant professor of Health Sciences at UCLA; founder of VuuMD Performance and Longevity; author of Thrive State: Your Blueprint for Optimal Health, Longevity, and Peak Performance.
