By adding intensity to movements or body weight exercises that you’ve already been doing, they are an easy modification that takes little time or additional planning. And while they won’t get you ripped like the Hulk, they can pair well with workouts that sculpt your upper body or complement your home cardio routine. Since most wrist weights double as ankle weights, they’ll also open up possibilities for leg day. A longtime staple in rehab clinics, The Cuff’s ankle and wrist weights are built to last. They offer fine-tuned weight increments for precise needs and workouts. Starting at just 0.25 pounds, these are well-suited to seniors, rehabbers, and beginners alike. It’s their vinyl outer that makes these super durable, easy to clean, and not odor-absorbing. What We Like While most wrist weights can double as ankle weights and vice versa, it’s not always the case. This comes down mostly to size and chosen weight. If you want a set that does both, make sure it’s large enough to accommodate your ankles while compact enough not to slip around on your wrist like bangles. And be conservative when choosing the weight—less weight is a safer choice.

P.volve’s comfy neoprene ankle weights are just the right size to double as wrist weights and they come bundled as a set of 1.5- and 3-pound bands, which should be perfect for regular light use as well as a moderate workout to tone your biceps, triceps, and lats. These stretchy, sand-filled weights are easily adjustable to provide a snug fit. What We LikeWhile many ankle weights claim they can double as wrist weights, not every design works in practice, especially for smaller wrists. BONA Fitness wrist and ankle weights, however, offer a compact, comfy, and secure build that works well for both. Their colors and reflective edging make these safe and fun—great for a night workout. The soft, stretchy lycra should absorb moisture and give a bit of stretch while the Velcro and metal closure will keep these from falling down or off. What We Like Whether you’re looking to tone your arms, burn more calories, or recondition after an injury, wrist weights add flexibility to your routine. They free up your hands and add just enough resistance. They’re relatively light, safe, and portable, unlike traditional weights. Another perk of wrist weights over dumbbells is that you can even ditch the cross-training shoes and go barefoot. Weights (Individually): Available in 1 lb., 1.5 lbs., 2 lbs., 2.5 lbs., 3 lbs., 4 lbs., 5 lbs., 7.5-lb. adjustable, 10 lbs.

It goes without saying your weights should take years of exercise, sweat, and washing without fraying or falling apart. You don’t want to be buying these more than once every 5 to 10 years. Materials like silicone and vinyl tend to hold up best. Stitching and build come into play as well. Weight The main benefit of wrist weights is shown via cardio and calories burned. According to the American Council on Exercise ( ACE), weights worn with cardio movements can increase heart rate by five to 10 beats per minute and oxygen consumption, as well as caloric expenditure, by about 5 to 15 percent compared to performing the same activity without weights. They’re also hands-free, which makes them versatile: For example, you can still grab a pullup bar while wearing them. While they may not be as stylish as the Bala, the ProsourceFit weights are solid and do exactly what they promise. The soft and comfortable neoprene outer wraps around your wrists for a snug fit. This material allows for sweat absorption and keeps it from chafing. The durable Velcro straps and metal loop closure adjusts easily and stay secure through the most powerful of movements. Choosing the weight of your ankle or wristbands should be a personal decision based on your fitness level, goals, and history of injury. While they range from tenths of a pound to as much as 20 pounds, keep in mind that by their nature, these bands are at the edge of your gravity and that you’ll likely be doing a high number of reps. This means that a little weight will go a long way. No matter your fitness level, start light and use heavier bands over time. FAQs About Wrist Weights If we define toning as increased strength plus decreased fat, then yes wrist weights can help—to a degree. As they’re better at increasing your heart rate rather than gaining pure strength, they can help with the cardio and calorie-burn component. Your muscles will grow strong enough to accommodate the small weight, but you may not see a visible difference. Wrist weights can effectively tone muscle if incorporated into a greater fitness regimen that includes strength training two to three times per week and at least 150 minutes of cardio, in addition to a healthy diet. What is the best weight for wrist weights?If you want the benefit of wrist weights but like to stay on trend, Bala Bangles were designed to be both beautiful and functional. Wear these while being active outdoors, during your workout, or just while you go about your everyday business. The baby-soft silicone outer makes for a smooth and easy-to-wash finish that will not absorb sweat or bacteria. They’re versatile, too—equally snug on ankles as they are on wrists. Try boxing, yoga, or physical therapy routines in style. “The world just became your gym,” touts Bala. What We Like While the main benefit of wrist and ankle weights is actually cardio and calories burned, they can help with recovering or maintaining muscle and bone mass. Any form of resistance builds muscle when you exercise regularly. Just don’t expect a pound or two to have a huge impact on your strength. Do wrist weights help tone arms?