Wearing a weighted vest can promote bone health and weight loss, but it’s not a cure-all

Are weighted vests more than a fitness fad? A health and exercise expert explains their potential benefits and limitations.

By: Kristen Marie Beavers, Wake Forest University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 7, 2026

Words: 1,155

Last Updated: 2 days, 7 hours ago

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By Kristen Marie Beavers, Wake Forest University

Health and fitness trends come and go, and many fads don’t deliver on their promises – remember vibrating belts or sauna suits? Today, weighted vests, made from sturdy fabrics like nylon and filled with iron sand or small weights, are gaining widespread use. Here’s what to know about them:

Weighted vests have been around for centuries, but they have recently surged in popularity in response …

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