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If you’re on the hunt for new (and affordable ways) to enhance your workout routine, don’t sleep on ankle weights. There’s plenty of great workout gear out there, but adjustable ankle weights are great for taking any exercise to the next level — even from the comfort of your own home. The workout accessories are perfect for adding resistance to your strength training routine, which can improve balance and help build muscle in your hamstrings, quads, and glutes.
To find the very best ankle weights on the market, we spoke to certified personal trainers about their favorite brands, focusing on affordable options, weights for beginners, adjustable weights, and sets with an aesthetic appeal. Based on their tried-and-true recommendations, there’s something here for everyone, no matter the amount of weight you’re looking for or the intensity level of your workout. “Strength training is an absolute must for endurance training, and also helps improve mobility, speed, and increases bone density,” says NASM-certified personal trainer Kyra Pellant. “Ankle weights can also be a great tool for entry-level gym goers who are intimidated by the machines.”
As an important note, all of these weights will definitely add some fire to lower-body movements like leg lifts and donkey kicks, but they’re generally not considered safe for running. Running with ankles weights is not recommended due to the repetitive movements and the load of the weight favoring some muscles and not others, potentially causing muscular imbalances, Leada Malek, PT, DPT, CSCS, SCS, previously told POPSUGAR. Dr. Malek also warned that running with ankle weights can lead to injury, so stick to walks and strengthening exercises. Read on to shop the best ankle weights trainers are already loving themselves, and get ready to feel the burn.
— Additional reporting by Chandler Plante