Getting in my steps has become a minor obsession. This plot twist still shakes this runner in disbelief. In health circles (or maybe just on the internet) tracking steps is a thing.
The only time I tracked my steps was when I was in a step challenge at my office (which I won, thank you very much).
While most runners love stats, we don’t typically track in steps. We measure in kilometres and vert.
Tracking steps became a health benchmark in the 1960s, and is now a global daily habit thanks to digital technology including wearable fitness devices and smartphones.
Because I am not ready to run as much as I would like, I have been walking a lot in the city. Let me tell you the novelty wore off long ago even while listening to podcasts. It’s pretty boring.
So one day I found myself on the weighted vest side of TikTok, which threw me down a fitness rabbit hole, and suddenly I am putting in my credit card number into Amazon to pay for the 15-lb Sportneer weighted vest.
In the off season, I generally turn to rucking with my makeshift rucksack filled with sand. I have always been intrigued with weighted vests but I felt no reason to buy one until now.
Benefits of wearing a weighted vest
Studies have said wearing this extra weight can strengthen your bones, improve your balance and core strength and improve posture.
Of course, studies are one thing and lived experience is another.
I haven’t worn mine long enough to notice any real changes. The weight feels light but after wearing it for a couple hours I felt it slightly in my upper back. Still it is definitely more comfortable than my 45-lb rucksack that I used to ruck on shorter walks.
This 15-lb weighted vest feels like it is in the sweet spot, mimicking the gear I’d carry on a long run or ultra race.
Tips for buying a weighted vest
⭐️ Start light: A vest around 12–15 lbs is the standard recommendation for beginners. Decide if you want a vest with one weight or one that you can add more weight.
⭐️ Fit matters: Choose adjustable straps so the vest sits snug with minimum bouncing.
⭐️ Comfort: Look for breathable fabric make longer wear easier.
I’m not sure if I fell victim to another marketing fitness scam. Honestly I don’t care. Right now it’s about finding new ways to move forward while I recover.
Have you used a weighted vest in workouts or on a run? I would love to hear from you in the comments below. And if you’re curious to try one yourself, I’ve been using the 15‑lb Sportneer Weighted Vest. You can check it out at this link.