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A fresh fitness craze, drawing on military training techniques, is taking social media by storm, but health experts are advising caution when trying out the exercises.
The new found craze revolves around wearing weighted vests while walking or working out, a throwback to military rucking and athletic training.
Users are pushing it as a quick way to boost calorie burn, increase endurance, and fast-track fitness results.
The hashtag #weightedvest has gained over 30 million views on TikTok, with users claiming the equipment helps burn fat and transforms appearances.
But while the sleek, modern versions of the vests may look trendy, experts say their sudden popularity comes with risks if misused.
Sports scientist Dr. Mark Kovacs explained to Fox News that while weighted vests have long been utilized in athletic and military disciplines, platforms like social media have spotlighted them in modern fitness routines.
‘The appeal is simple: You turn everyday walking into a slightly more demanding workout without changing the movement.’
However, Kovacs advises a measured approach. He suggests enthusiasts start with vests that are no more than 10 percent of their body weight, engage in 15-30 minute workouts, and focus on maintaining good posture.
The new found craze revolves around wearing weighted vests while walking or working out, a throwback to military rucking and athletic training
Users are pushing it as a quick way to boost calorie burn, increase endurance, and fast-track fitness results
‘Pay attention to what your body communicates. If you experience discomfort, it’s time to ease up,’ he mentioned. ‘While beneficial, weighted vests do not substitute for quality strength workouts or intense cardio.’
Taking a cue from the historic military exercise of rucking – which involves long treks with loaded backpacks – weighted vests have become accessible online. They’ve even made their way into premium gym offerings, such as Equinox’s ‘Fully Vested’ treadmill workouts.
But, experts say their sudden popularity comes with risks if misused. Pictured: Dr. Mark Kovacs
Prices for the trending fitness gear can range anywhere from $30 on Amazon to $375 for premium versions.
Certified trainer Sarah Fuhrmann explained the attraction is partly psychological.
‘Just strap on and walk, and fitness ensues,’ she said. ‘Social media often makes old tools look new.’
Fuhrmann agreed, adding, ‘They’re not a shortcut to fitness. If the choice is between a vest and a solid strength program, choose the weights in the gym every time.’
The trend also taps into evolutionary ideas about fitness. On his popular ‘Huberman Lab’ podcast, author Michael Easter noted, ‘Humans are the only mammals that can pick up weight and carry it long distances.
‘We carried everything – food, tools, even babies – for most of history. Technology has stripped carrying out of our lives, but we were literally born to do it.’
Despite the hype, science on the long-term health benefits of weighted vest use remains limited.
The new fitness trend inspired by military conditioning is a throwback to military rucking and athletic training. Pictured: A US Army man and woman wear weighted vests while doing pushups in a field
Experts recommend using vests weighing no more than 10 percent of your body weight, beginning with 15-30 minute sessions, and prioritizing posture
While studies show they can increase calorie burn and improve cardiovascular demand, results on impacts like bone density are mixed.
One study found obese adults lost about 10 percent of their body weight using vests, but without improved bone health.
‘This study’s findings are counter to some research and consistent with others,’ Dr. Colin Haines, a spine surgeon and research director at Virginia Spine Institute, said.
‘The broader body of evidence includes both neutral and positive results.’
Other small-scale studies have shown promise – particularly for postmenopausal women – including improved leg strength and femur bone density.
