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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Does running with light weights help burn more calories?

    Related Topic
    Fitness and Sports Medicine
    Some of my friends run with light weights or even a backpack… would this help me burn more calories?
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  • John Toomey

    Exercise Physiologist, Personal Trainer

    I'm a down to earth practising (and fully accredited) Exercise Physiologist based in Esperance, WA. I have been a practising EP since 2004. I've been … View Profile

    Yes - but not significantly. I recall a reasearch study that looked into this, it had people (a) running with handweights; (b) ankle weights; © both. The difference was only significant in ©. The biggest take home message was that if you want to burn more calories it's easier to simply run (1) a touch further; (2) a bit faster or (3) up a hill. Adding weights changes your running mechanics  (not so good for muscle aches and injury potential) and makes people look pretty dorky, to be honest!

    If you're stuck plodding with friends, then wear a backpack if you must to add weight - or better still, just do an extra 5mins or similar.

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