Should you add the weighted vest to your fitness routine?

Weighted vests are trending in gyms, on hiking trails, and across social media, but are they effective? Influencers promote them as a tool to improve posture, burn calories, strengthen bones and muscles, and say they support women in perimenopause or menopause. The global market for weighted vests is expected to reach $313 million by 2031, according to market research.  

While consumer demand is rising, research does not support most of these claims, according to an article in NPR. Studies show little evidence that weighted vests improve bone density or muscle strength, though they may provide modest cardiovascular benefits by increasing calorie burn and oxygen use.

Experts emphasize that traditional resistance training is far more effective for building strength and protecting bone health. Some users enjoy the psychological boost of wearing a vest, but doctors caution that it’s more of a fitness “novelty” than a proven tool. Ultimately, weighted vests aren’t harmful, but they shouldn’t replace evidence-based weight-bearing exercises.

Read more: NPR

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.