How Heavy Should Ankle Weights Be For Beginners?

“What weight should I begin with for ankle weights?” is a common question for individuals starting to use this fitness accessory. Typically, beginners are advised to start with light weights, such as 1 or 2 lbs on each leg. If you’re new to using ankle weights, it’s a good idea to begin with 1 lb on each leg initially. This allows your body to adapt and gradually build stamina. This advice holds true as of May 16, 2023, and it’s important to begin with an appropriate weight to prevent strain or injury during your workouts.

Are 2-pound ankle weights effective? To answer this question, it’s essential to consider the effectiveness of various weights for enhancing your workout. Dr. Smith, a fitness expert, recommends a weight range of one to three pounds for wrist and ankle weights, asserting that they can be just as effective as heavier alternatives. These weights rely on gravity to generate resistance during your exercises. However, it’s crucial to note that when you’re walking, these weights tend to sway like pendulums, attached to your shoulder and hip joints. This motion, as explained by Dr. Smith in a September 27, 2022 interview, plays a role in their effectiveness.