AnnaS wrote:I read a couple of research studies that included the weighted vest as part of the protocol. This seemed to make sense, and I thought about getting one...then I had a thought. Why not just wear a small backpack and add progressively more weight to it (up to the 10% amount)? So I now do this for part of my walking. If the backpack fits nicely, doesn't chafe or hurt, I think it's a perfect solution. Why buy more equipment when you have just the thing in a closet somewhere.
It seems to me that humans have been carrying things on their backs as long as we've been in existence. There's a kind of 'rightness' about it. Also, if you'd like to go backpacking someday on a weekend or vacation, it's good training for that, as well as strengthening for your bones.
Good point!
I have both a vest and a backpack and prefer using my backpack. In fact, I carry it with me almost everywhere I go and it usually has about 5-10 lbs worth of stuff in it, sometimes more. And I use both straps to keep the weight even on my back.
Everyone just thinks I am a ol' hippie, little do they know I am working out and maintaining my bone mass.
In Health
Jeff