Why Wrist Weights Are Used
The theory behind using 1- and 2-lb wrist weights to get in shape is that even though the weights are very light, wearing them while running or walking will cause you to burn more calories than if you were not wearing the wrist weights. There is no arguing with the theory. Your body is working harder to carry the extra 2 or 4 lbs, and since you are already exerting yourself, you are getting even more benefit from the exercise. You can also use the wrist weights when you are doing an exercise such as arm circles. By extending your arms out to the side and swinging your arms in circles, you are working your wrists, forearms, upper arms and shoulders. This will help you gain strength.
Overuse of Weights
Wearing 1- or 2-lb weights on your wrists will help you burn more calories and help you gain more strength when exercising with them on. However, those who wear wrist weights often start to think that if they are benefiting from 1 or 2 lbs, wearing 3, 4 or 5 lbs would be even better. However, using more weight can strain tendons and ligaments and cause undue soreness for those wearing wrist weights.
Potential Problems
There are a number of issues that are associated with using too much weight when exercising. Some of the problems that can occur include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon pain, writer's cramp, trigger finger (the swelling of the tendon around the thumb or a finger) and ganglion cysts. All of these problems can be quite painful and take weeks or months to recover from.
The theory behind using 1- and 2-lb wrist weights to get in shape is that even though the weights are very light, wearing them while running or walking will cause you to burn more calories than if you were not wearing the wrist weights. There is no arguing with the theory. Your body is working harder to carry the extra 2 or 4 lbs, and since you are already exerting yourself, you are getting even more benefit from the exercise. You can also use the wrist weights when you are doing an exercise such as arm circles. By extending your arms out to the side and swinging your arms in circles, you are working your wrists, forearms, upper arms and shoulders. This will help you gain strength.
Overuse of Weights
Wearing 1- or 2-lb weights on your wrists will help you burn more calories and help you gain more strength when exercising with them on. However, those who wear wrist weights often start to think that if they are benefiting from 1 or 2 lbs, wearing 3, 4 or 5 lbs would be even better. However, using more weight can strain tendons and ligaments and cause undue soreness for those wearing wrist weights.
Potential Problems
There are a number of issues that are associated with using too much weight when exercising. Some of the problems that can occur include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon pain, writer's cramp, trigger finger (the swelling of the tendon around the thumb or a finger) and ganglion cysts. All of these problems can be quite painful and take weeks or months to recover from.
