If you want to add some variation to your walking, you might consider walking with weights. Before you begin walking with weights you would certainly need to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, you should avoid walking with weights if you suffer from a bad back, joint problems, high blood pressure, circulatory problems or any heart disease. It is advisable to consult your doctor before doing this. Weights will help you to improve and strengthen your upper body and also your cardiovascular conditioning. If you do decide on walking with weights, start off with a light weight. This will help your body get used to the extra weight and will also not stress your joints too much.
Walking with ankle weights is generally not recommended. This is due to the fact that joint injuries are can occur when walking with weights around your ankles. If you choose to walk with weights around your ankles, you will be placing undue stress on your ankles, hips and knees. By putting an extra weight at the bottom of your leg, you are in danger of knee and ankle fractures. This is because of the high impact walking that results from using ankle weights. You can also suffer with hypertension in the muscles and tendons. This usually occurs when you remove the weight because your legs have got used to the extra weight. If you do decide to go ahead and use these weights, ensure that they are tied tightly around your ankles. If they are loose, they will interfere with your walking. Stop using the weights immediately or stop walking with ankle weights if you feel any pain in your shins or legs.
Walking with hand weights helps to increase the overall effectiveness of your walk. It is best to use weights that do not exceed two pounds. Hand weights help to strengthen your shoulder muscles. While walking, your palms should be facing inwards and the weights should be held down at your sides. Raise your arms up to your sides but keep them at shoulder level. Walking with leg braces helps to strengthen the muscles in your legs. Leg braces are usually used to correct a person’s walk, instead of a walker or a wheelchair. They could even be used when one is recovering from an injury or an accident.
Walking with ankle weights has its benefits too. Ankle weights help to increase the intensity of the exercise. The walk is a tougher workout and one that will help you to burn more calories and fat. Walking with leg weights is not advisable as they can give rise to injuries.
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