Peloton’s decision to introduce weighted-vest classes to its streaming platform in May 2025 has ignited enthusiasm among its members, reflecting a wider global surge in the use of weighted vests in workouts. Instructor Rebecca Kennedy, who leads the sessions, said the response was immediate: “They were like, ‘Finally! You answered my prayers’… the appetite has been really wild.”
Weighted vests, long used in military training through “rucking” — walking with a loaded backpack — are now a mainstream fitness accessory. Market research forecasts the global weighted vest sector will expand from $199 million in 2024 to $313 million by 2031, driven by growing demand from everyday exercisers.
Experts say the appeal lies in the efficiency. “Adding mechanical load onto your skeleton means your muscles have to work harder,” Kennedy explained. “We’re burning more calories, using more oxygen, and working postural muscles much more.” Mathias Sorensen, an exercise physiologist at the University of California San Francisco’s Human Performance Center, described weighted vests as “a great way to increase the difficulty of whichever exercise you’re doing.”
When to Use a Weighted Vest
Kennedy recommends weighted vests for low-impact activities such as walking, hiking, or aerobics, which allow users to maximize cardiovascular exercise while building strength. Trainers also use them during push-ups, pull-ups, and squats to intensify bodyweight exercises. Personal trainer Mike Hayes, based in New York, said: “I do it to make my body-weight exercises a little bit harder, so I’m required to exert a lot more power and force.”
However, not all workouts are suited to the practice. Kennedy advises against wearing vests during yoga, Pilates, or sports with fast twists, such as tennis or pickleball. Weighted vests should also be avoided during stretching, she cautions.
How to Get Started
Experts stress moderation when adopting weighted vests. Sorensen warned against starting with heavy loads, noting the risk of injury. The general guideline is to choose a vest weighing 5–10% of body weight and gradually increase usage over time. Adjustable vests offer flexibility for progressive training, while fixed vests may be better for cardio as they fit more snugly.
Although weighted vests are safe for most people, doctors’ advice is recommended for those with spinal issues, balance problems, or injuries. Pregnant women are also advised against their use, particularly later in pregnancy.
Impact on Bone Health
While often touted as a tool to strengthen bones, research remains inconclusive. A recent year-long trial involving 150 older adults found no significant impact on preventing hip bone loss. Michele Bird, an orthopedic clinical specialist at the University of Michigan, said: “There’s a lot of buzz around the weighted vest as a bone-density hack, but I just don’t think the evidence has supported that at this time.”
Nonetheless, researchers say new studies are underway to explore the vests’ impact on muscle and potential gender differences in outcomes. For now, experts agree that if the trend motivates people to move more, it may prove to be one of fitness’s most useful tools.
