Many people assume that a 12-pound weighted vest would automatically be too heavy for a beginner, but that is not really the case, at least not always.
Data from the National Center for Health Statistics shows that the average weight for adults in the United States is about 199 lbs for men and 170 lbs for women. Since experts advise that beginners should start with a weighted vest that is about 5%-10% of their body weight, a 12 lbs weighted vest actually falls within the ideal weight range recommended for most people.
Is a 12 lb Weighted Vest For You?
If you weigh anywhere close to the average adult, and you are strong and healthy, a 12 lbs weighted vest is a great option to start with. It is a little on the heavier side, but if you are taking up weighted vest training, you must have been exercising for some time, and are therefore more fit than the regular adult.
However, if you are an absolute beginner with no experience walking or running with weighted vests, and you are not really sure you can even consider yourself in decent shape, a 12 lbs weighted vest might be a little too heavy, especially for running or exercising. You may want to begin with an 8 lbs weighted vest or even something lighter.
Also, the nature and intensity of your workout matter, especially if you are going to get a 12-pound weighted vest as an absolute beginner.
- For intense weight a it is better to start with a lighter vest. 12 lbs will wear you out really quickly, not allowing you to do much exercise at the end of the day.
- But if you have already been exercising for some time, a 12 lb weight will stretch you, but likely not break you-at least not too quickly.
Best Uses for a 12 lbs Weighted Vest
For the average adult person, a 12 lb weighted vest would be great for most beginner workouts, bodyweight exercises, and everyday exercise ( stair climbing, walking, etc).
For a person with an intermediate level of fitness, a 12 lbs weighted vest may still suffice for strength training, muscle building, weightlifting, etc..You will probably need a heavier vest for a bigger challenge soon.
Which 12 lb Weighted Vest Should You Get?
Buying a 12 lb weighted vest is not different from buying a weighted vest in general. It comes down to knowing what types of 12 lb weighted vests there are and identifying key features that indicate durability and ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Here’s how to choose the best 12 lb weighted vest for your workout.
1. Identify which Weighted Vest Type You Need
There are many types of weighted vests, but once you know what weight you need, the next step is to decide between fixed and adjustable weighted vests.
- Fixed weighted vests have a set weight that cannot be adjusted by adding or removing sandbags. When you buy a fixed 12 lb weighted vest, you cannot make it lighter or heavier than 12 lbs.
- Adjustable weighted vests, on the other hand, have a weight range, and you can adjust the weight within that range by adding or removing sandbags.
A fixed 12 lb weighted vest is perfect if you are fairly certain that the standards and demands of the exercise for which you intend to use the vest will remain the same over time. If you use your weighted vest for walking exclusively, go for a fixed 12 lbs weighted vest.
If you think that you may want to tune up the intensity of your workout over time, go for an adjustable 12 lbs weighted vest. Even if you are uncertain about your future intentions, the safer and (economically) wiser decision is to go for an adjustable weighted vest.
2. Choose the Weight Range According to Your Workout Demands
For many adjustable weighted vests, the minimum weight is far below 12 lbs (usually 5 lbs and way above 12 lbs (up to 30 or 35lbs). 4-35 lbs Workout Vests are especially common, and are the safest choice to go for as they cover a wider weight range.
However, if you have a very clear idea of what you need, you may want to consider weighted vest options closer to 12 lbs.
- For some 12 lb adjustable weighted vests, the minimum weight is lower (usually 5 lbs) and the maximum weight is just above 12 lbs.
- For others, the minimum weight is higher (just below 12 lbs), and the maximum weight is higher (usually 30-50 lbs)
To choose between the two weight ranges, use 12 lbs as the baseline. If you think 12 lbs is on the heavier side for you, consider a weighted vest with a lower minimum weight and a maximum closer to 12 lbs. If 12 lbs is on the lighter side, go for a weighted vest with a minimum adjustable weight closer to 12 lbs.
3. Make Sure The Fit Is Snug
Check and ensure that it has adjustable elastic straps that fit tightly, and (preferably) reflective stripes. Ensure that it is evenly filled and well-balanced, as a lopsided vest may not fit well and cause pain.
4. Check For Comfort
A 12 lb weighted vest, just like any weighted vest, can hurt your body if it is too heavy or does not fit comfortably. So make sure the fabrics used within the vest are gentle and nonchafing, and the shoulder straps are sufficiently cushioned.
5. Check Durability
12 lb weighted vest that is made of durable material, has double-stitched edges, and filled with good quality sand, is likely to last longer through and after different workouts over the years.
What is the Best 12 lb Weighted Vest?
Overall, the best 12 lb weighted vest from the Zelus collection is this 12lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripes. It is exactly 12 pounds in weight, designed to distribute the weight properly, and with adjustable features and elastic straps for a snug but comfortable fit.
It is made of premium neoprene rubber fabric on the outside and outside and soft non-chafing materials on the inside, and you get dual storage pockets to carry your phone, keys, and small accessories along.
Consider this 12 lbs weighted vest for everything from circuit training, weightlifting, cardio, strength training, weight loss, and beyond.
Best 12 lbs Adjustable Vests
1. 6–30 lb Adjustable Workout Vest
For adjustable 12 lbs weighted vests, one of the best options you can get is the 6–30 lb Adjustable Workout Vest. It covers a wider weight range than many 12 lbs adjustable weights options, and comes with multiple weighted iron sand bags for everything from lighter exercise to intense training and cardio.
Also made of double neoprene fabric, it is double-stitched for extra durability and has cushioned shoulder straps and gentle, non-chafing fabrics in the interior.
2. 11-20lb Vest with 6 Ironsand Weights
If you want an adjustable weighted vest closer to 12 lbs, the 11-20lb Vest with 6 Ironsand Weights is a great option. It is a unisex vest that weighs 11 lbs by itself but reaches up to 20 lbs thanks to the included six 1.5-lb iron sand weight bags. It is designed to be especially ergonomic and allows variable low-impact resistance that strengthens your core and endurance, no matter your exercise routine.
Final Thoughts on 12 lb Weighted Vests
Overall, a 12 lb weighted vest is a solid choice if you are a beginner in good health, or if you want to add moderate resistance to your workouts. It’s heavy enough to challenge your muscles and improve endurance without being so cumbersome that it risks injury or limits movement.
Ultimately, whether it’s right for you depends on your fitness level, goals, and comfort. Start light, listen to your body, and increase weight gradually for the best results.
For something heavier, you might want to consider a 20-pound weighted vest.