I picked up a set of 15 per side adjustable ankle weights just for use on leg lift lower abs work. I just wanted to cut the number of reps down as much as possible and avoid going aerobic on them. Thought they might work on bicycle crunches too. I found references on the net recommending it. This seemed to help a lot just like using a plate on back extensions and a dumbbell on the chest for crunches. I've now had two people tell me "DON'T use ankle weights, they are bad for you". Is it true or is there just a certain context where they are a problem? I could see how they might be rather destructive running or in something where you move much but I've have trouble connecting that on abs exercises.

I picked up a set of 15 per side adjustable ankle weights just for use on leg lift lower abs work. I just wanted to cut the number of reps down as much as possible and avoid going aerobic on them. Thought they might work on bicycle crunches too. I found references on the net recommending it. This seemed to help a lot just like using a plate on back extensions and a dumbbell on the chest for crunches. I've now had two people tell me "DON'T use ankle weights, they are bad for you". Is it true or is there just a certain context where they are a problem? I could see how they might be rather destructive running or in something where you move much but I've have trouble connecting that on abs exercises.


Don't use the ankle weights.

Don't use the ankle weights.

That's number three. I'm getting this feeling I shouldn't use the ankle weights!

I dislike wasting money, how about on pull-up and chins?

Don't use ankle weights on any movement that involves any significant amount of velocity (walking, running, biking, jumping, jumping rope, jumping jacks, swimming, etc.) and/or travel. It will not make your joints happy. Slow stationary exercise (like wearing them for a hip-dominant ab exercise or doing pull-ups or chin-ups) is usually fine.

I use them for Captain'sChairs....but I always go "bent- knee" when using weights for these. I wouldn't use them for straight-leg Cap Chairs.

I use them for Bicycle Crunches. ( Weights on ankles and a weight behind my head in my hands.....but no neck stress or head-pull involved).

I also use them for Sideleg Lifts.

Just don't go too heavy too soon. 15lbs per leg is more than you think it is for these kind of ex's.

Don't use ankle weights on any movement that involves any significant amount of velocity (walking, running, biking, jumping, jumping rope, jumping jacks, swimming, etc.) and/or travel. It will not make your joints happy. Slow stationary exercise (like wearing them for a hip-dominant ab exercise or doing pull-ups or chin-ups) is usually fine.

Thanks, pull ups it is then, I'm too light anyway.