The ideal weighted vest for someone depends mostly on their body weight and fitness level. Generally, it is recommended to start with a weighted vest that is about 5-10% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, a vest weighing between 7.5 and 15 pounds would be a good starting point. Beginners are advised to start at the lower end of this range to allow the body to adapt gradually, avoiding muscle or joint overloading. As strength improves, the weight can be increased incrementally by 2-5%.
For beginners, fixed weight vests ranging from 4 to 12 pounds made of comfortable materials like neoprene can be appropriate. Adjustable vests that allow adding or removing weight offer more versatility as one progresses.
Starting with a comfortable, well-fitting vest that doesn't inhibit movement is crucial, and it is recommended to use the vest during low-impact exercises initially. Wearing the vest all day is not advised as it can cause soreness and fatigue.
