The Weighted vest Trend: Boost your walks and workouts for better health!

At Storm & Harmony Wellness, we’re always exploring simple, sustainable ways to elevate your health and lately, one trend has been catching attention for good reason: walking and exercising with a weighted vest.

What Is a Weighted Vest?

A weighted vest is exactly what it sounds like. It is a vest with evenly distributed weight that you wear during physical activity. Ranging from a few pounds to over 50, these vests can be tailored to fit your strength, comfort, and goals. Whether you're out for a walk in the neighborhood or doing strength training, this simple tool can make your routine more effective. 

Why is this trend picking up and what are benefits of using a weighted vest?

1. Burn More Calories Without More Time

   Adding weight increases the intensity of your workouts. You burn more calories even while doing the same activity making it a time-efficient way to boost fat loss and cardiovascular conditioning.

   
   

2. Build Strength and Bone Density

   The added resistance from a weighted vest helps improve muscular endurance and supports bone density. Increasing bone density is a major benefit for aging adults and anyone looking to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

   
   

3. Improve Posture and Core Engagement

   Wearing a weighted vest naturally encourages better posture and activates your core, helping you move with more awareness and stability throughout the day.

   
   

4. Increase Cardiovascular and Respiratory Capacity

   Especially during walks or hikes, the added load can challenge your heart and lungs in a healthy way, improving endurance over time.

   
   

5. Make Everyday Movement More Effective

   From stair climbs to bodyweight squats, even simple exercises become more powerful when done with a vest. It’s a way to up the impact without upping the complexity.

Is It Safe for Everyone?

Weighted vests are generally safe, but they’re not for everyone. If you have joint pain, spinal issues, or balance problems, it’s best to check with a physical therapist or wellness professional first. At Storm & Harmony Wellness, we believe in bio-individuality which means what works for one body might not work for another.

How to Get Started

• Start Light: Begin with 5–10% of your body weight.

• Focus on Form: Don’t let the extra weight throw off your alignment.

• Keep It Functional: Use the vest during your walks, bodyweight exercises, or short hikes before progressing to more intense workouts.

• Stay Mindful: If you feel joint discomfort, shortness of breath, or dizziness, remove the vest and reassess.

  
  

There are a variety of vest options at a range of costs to best customize your needs. 

A quick search online will help you find local department stores like Dicks Sporting Goods or online stores with more advanced options 

Type	Weight Capacity	Price Range	Best For
Basic Walking Vest	4–12 lbs	$30–$60	Beginners, light cardio
Adjustable Fitness Vest	10–40 lbs	$60–$130	Intermediate users, strength & HIIT
Tactical/Military-Style Vest	20–45+ lbs	$100–$250+	Advanced users, CrossFit, rucking
Women’s Form-Fitting Vests	4–20 lbs	$50–$120	Comfort during walks or bodyweight training
Weighted Clothing (under 10 lbs)	2–10 lbs	$40–$100	Daily wear, posture, rehab

Walking or exercising with a weighted vest isn’t just a fitness fad, as researched by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, it’s a research-backed way to enhance your movement, build resilience, and challenge your body in a healthy, manageable way. At Storm & Harmony Wellness, we encourage our clients to find small ways to elevate everyday habits and this is one that can yield big benefits.

Want help finding the right movement approach for your body and lifestyle? Reach out to our team for personalized coaching in mind, movement, and metabolic health.