Weighted Carries: Simple Yet Functional

Weighted carries will always have a soft spot in my heart and are a simple but highly effective exercise that can help to improve overall strength, stability, and endurance. They involve carrying a weight in each hand and walking for a certain distance or length of time.

In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the key benefits of weighted carries and how you can incorporate them into your workout routine.

1. Improved Grip Strength

One of the primary benefits of weighted carries is improved grip strength. Carrying weights requires a strong grip, and by regularly performing weighted carries, you can increase your grip strength and improve your ability to hold onto heavy objects in everyday life.

2. Increased Total Body Strength

Weighted carries are a full-body exercise that engage multiple muscle groups in the body, including the legs, core, and upper body. By carrying heavy weights, you can increase your overall strength and improve your ability to perform other exercises and activities.

3. Improved Posture and Spinal Health

Carrying weights forces you to engage your core muscles and maintain proper posture, which can help to improve spinal health and reduce the risk of back pain and injury. By regularly performing weighted carries, you can improve your posture and reduce the risk of back pain and injury.

4. Versatility and Accessibility

Weighted carries are a versatile exercise that can be performed with a variety of equipment, including dumbbells, kettlebells, sandbags, and even water jugs or other household items. They can be performed anywhere, making them a great exercise for those who do not have access to a gym or prefer to exercise outdoors.

5. Functionality

Weighted carries are a functional activity that we must perform in everyday life. Carrying groceries, laundry, or even children is part of life and this exercise can better prepare you for these activities by mimicking the physical stressors presented by these everyday tasks.

To incorporate weighted carries into your workout routine, start by selecting a weight that is challenging but manageable for you. Hold the weights in each hand and walk for a certain distance or length of time, focusing on maintaining proper posture and engaging your core muscles. As you become stronger, you can increase the weight and distance or time of the carry.

In conclusion, weighted carries would benefit everyone and are a simple but highly effective exercise that can offer benefits for strength, stability, and endurance. By regularly incorporating weighted carries into your workout routine, you can improve your grip strength, total body strength, posture, spinal health, and endurance.