Mid-year fitness goals check: have you been taking steps to achieve the targets you set at the start of the year? While some of us have strived to make a conscientious effort to work in regular sweat sessions each week, it’s not too late for the rest of us to catch up!
And one easy way to power up your workout? With a trusty set of wrist and ankle weights! In a Harvard Health Publishing article, Terry Downey, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network recommends weighted wrist bands as a tool for “targeted exercise if you can’t grip a dumbbell”.
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With proper use and guided exercises, these wearable weights can be incredibly impactful in helping you check off those once-lofty fitness goals. Here are some of our favourite ankle or wrist weights, accompanied by real-user reviews on some of these picks!
Founded by real-life couple Natalie Holloway and Max Kislevitz in 2018, Bala gained plenty of traction in 2020 when they appeared on Shark Tank and successfully attracted investors like Maria Sharapova to partner up with them. Since then, the brand’s line of stylishly minimalist strap-on bangles have enticed users beyond the US, spanning from corners all across the globe. Each weight is made of recycled steel encased in buttery soft silicone, and the elastic core strap allows for a comfortable fit whether you choose to use it on your wrists or ankles. At 1lb (which translates to roughly 450g), it provides just enough resistance without restricting motion.
Real reviews: “I purchased these after many of my friends and people I’ve seen on Instagram have, and I admit the hype is so worth it. They are so cute and sleek that I forget I’m even wearing them.” – Madeline D.
For a more economical alternative, Iuiga has a set of wrist weights that are just as pretty to look at, sans a hefty price tag. Silicone-wrapped steel is attached to a black elastic strap, and the smoke grey colour works great with just about every workout look you’ll rock in the gym. Though affordable, they’re no less stunning design-wise!
Veering towards the heavier end of the weights scale, this set of 3lb (approx. 1.4kg) ankle weights will add just that extra bit of resistance to your lower body workouts, such as “to strengthen and tone the thighs and glutes in various stepping patterns, leg lifts and other low range of motion moves”. If you’re already using lighter ankle weights and wish to progress up a weight class, this is a great option for you.
Real reviews: “I always buy P.Volve weights. They are soft, close securely, and are not bulky.” – Kathy S.
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We’re believers of one-stop shopping – think of the time you’ll save! – and this is where this bundle from The Sculpt Society comes in. Each bundle has a relaxed fit sleeveless tee that’s made of buttery soft cotton and an embroidered cap that offers a neat solution to your post-gym hair, but it’s really the set of 1lb ankle weights that are going to transform your workout. Because the weights are adjustable, feel free to tailor the weights to your fitness level by removing or adding weighted pods to your strap!
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Where many of today’s weight manufacturers are sticking to rectangular weighted pods, Movido’s are instantly recognisable, thanks to their unique triangular shape. Plus, the gorge salmon pink colour do away with any notion that they can only be worn at the gym. Instead, wear them around the house, or with your lazy brunch ‘fit for resistance training on the go.
Real reviews: “Love! I unfortunately have to sit at my desk all day for work and these handy little weights have been perfect for when I am feeling like I need to get a little exercise but can’t take the time to go to the gym. I love them, they are so comfy and soft, super easy to adjust…and its super simple to do so.” – Mariko
Arguably the chicest set of weights on this list, these babies from Equipt are cut out of vegan leather and finished with gold hardware. Designed to remain discreet, you can wear them in or out of the gym, and no one would think twice about your new “accessories”. Plus, they use metal balls as weights instead of sand, so it offers you an extra layer of comfort.
Real reviews: “I have tried so many pairs and they are irritating and bulky, but these are fabulous.” – Morgan Couch
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Unlike the rest of the weights included in this list, these Training Lace weights feature a unique wraparound design that adds a bit more flexibility to the fit. Perfect for those who favour adjustability! Portable in size and available in 12 or 16 ounces (approx.. 340g and 453g respectively), they can be kept in your office drawer for a mid-day trip to the gym. And when you’re done, wipe these silicone weights down with a damp cloth and let them air dry. Easy, functional and stylish.
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Text: Aaron Kok/HerWorld