The Best Ankle Weights to Shop Online — According to Trainers
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If you're on the hunt for new (and affordable ways) to enhance your workout routine, don't sleep on ankle weights. While sometimes overlooked amid the plethora of great workout gear out there, adjustable ankle weights are a fantastic way to take any exercise to the next level — even from the comfort of your own home. When used correctly and safely, the workout accessories are perfect for adding resistance to your strength training routine, offering an opportunity to improve balance and help build muscle in your hamstrings, quads, and glutes.
To find the very best ankle weights on the market, we spoke to certified personal trainers about their favorite brands, focusing on affordable options, weights for beginners, adjustable weights, and sets with an aesthetic appeal. Their recommendations resulted in a list that contains something for everyone, no matter the amount of weight you're looking for or the intensity level of your workout. "Strength training is an absolute must for endurance training, and also helps improve mobility and speed, and increases bone density," says NASM-certified personal trainer Kyra Pellant. "Ankle weights can also be a great tool for entry-level gym goers who are intimidated by the machines."
As an important note, all of these weights will definitely add some fire to lower-body movements like leg lifts and donkey kicks, but they're generally not considered safe for running. Running with ankles weights is not recommended due to the repetitive movements and the load of the weight favoring some muscles and not others, potentially causing muscular imbalances, Leada Malek, PT, DPT, CSCS, SCS, previously told POPSUGAR. Dr. Malek also warned that running with ankle weights can lead to injury, so stick to walks and strengthening exercises. Read on to shop the best ankle weights trainers are already loving themselves, and get ready to feel the burn.
— Additional reporting by Chandler Plante and Kyley Warren
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Best Stylish Ankle Weights
Bala Bangles ($55-$65)
Celebrity trainer and resident Class Fitsugar instructor, Natalie White says these colorful Bala Bangles might be the most aesthetic ankle weights out there. As seen on "Shark Tank," the minimalist velcro weights come in either one- or two-pound options, making them beginner-friendly. Read our review of the Bala Bangles for the full product details.
LA-based personal trainer Talia Brumbaugh adds that she likes Bala Bangles for the even weight distribution. "It doesn't feel heavier on one side of the foot, or like it's going to slide off or undo," she says. Wear them on both your ankles and wrists for an added challenge, and know that working out has never looked this good.
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Best Advanced Ankle Weights
Henkelion 5 Lbs. Ankle Weights ($23-$27)
If you're more advanced in your strength training journey, online fitness coach Briana Chandler suggests trying heavier weights. These adjustable ankle weights are a good place to start for anyone seeking an appropriate challenge. "I would recommend for advanced trainees to use at least five pound weights," Chandler says. These ankle weights fit the bill, as they come in a handful of different weights and feature an adjustable strap with a hook and loop closure for added security.
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Best Adjustable Ankle Weights
Stonesam Adjustable Wrist & Ankle Weight Set ($34)
Brumbaugh loves the look of Bala Bangles, but if you're on the hunt for a lower price tag, she has a few other recommendations that are equally chic. Brumbaugh finds this Stonesam set to have a similar design and weight distribution, with plenty of vibrant colors to choose from. Secured with velcro, reviewers say they're also easy to get on, adjust, and remove.
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Best Ankle Weights For Beginners
Movido Wrist and Ankle Weights ($40, originally $50)
Another recommendation from Brumbaugh, this set from Movido has a sleek look and comes in at under $50. Plus, they're only one-pound each, which is a great, consistent weight for those just starting out. Reviewers mention that you can add or remove individual links from the band, making these ankle weights extra adjustable depending on your goals and level of training.
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Best-Rated Ankle Weights
Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights ($30, originally $36)
Not sure which weight is best for you? The Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights give you the option to change your mind as many times as you want. "You have more variety weight-wise ranging from 1-10 lbs," says NASM-certified personal trainer Alexis Iannucci. "Depending on the activity you're doing, whether that's a hot girl walk or glute focused exercise, you can switch up the intensity when needed. They also come in cute colors!" Wear one-pound weights today and five-pound weights tomorrow. All you have to do is take out the easily removable sand pocket.
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Best Intermediate Ankle Weights
P.volve Ankle Weights ($26)
If you're a fitness-class regular, love aerobics, or get your daily exercise by taking long walks around the neighborhood, then the P.volve Ankle Weights are for you. This 1.5 pound pair is weighted with sand and come recommended by NASM-certified personal trainer and P.volve instructor, Maeve McEwen. "The sand-filled ankle weights stay securely strapped around the ankle, and I never have to worry about adjusting them throughout my workouts," McEwen previously told POPSUGAR.
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Best Affordable Ankle Weights
All in Motion Ankle Weights Anti-Microbial 4 Lbs. ($23)
"I like the 'All in Motion' ankle weights at Target (and they're on sale online)!" certified trainer Kyra Pellant says. "Cool designs, inexpensive, and they're anti-microbial, too." The neoprene ankle weights are four pounds each, making them an ideal choice for intermediate and advanced strength training. "I'm currently training for the LA Marathon and an Ironman in 2024 so I sometimes use ankle weights for my weighted training," Pellant adds. "I caution people against using ankle weights for cardio, but they can be an awesome add to exercises like leg lifts, flutter kicks, or even pull-ups."
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