Is there any benefit to walking with arm weights? I walk 2-3 miles, four days a week. Would it help me to hold dumbbells or wear weights on my wrists?

We do not recommend using dumbbells, wrist weights or ankle weights when walking. Using weights when walking increases your risk of injury. Holding weights can strain your neck and shoulders and makes it difficult to maintain correct arm movement and posture. Also, weights that are light enough to hold when walking are not heavy enough to increase your strength.

Ankle weights may cause you trip and fall - which nobody wants - and can alter your stride causing muscle strain. Why take the chance when there is little benefit and greater risk of injury?

If you are using weights to increase the intensity of your walking workout, we recommend that you walk at a slightly faster pace or include some hills on your route. You may also consider using a heart rate monitor or time yourself to accurately measure the intensity of your walking workout. This will give you an objective way to increase your pace if you need a greater challenge.