Extra Load on Your Back to Help Build Bones
(snip)
Several small studies have shown exercise with a weighted vest increases bone-mineral density in older women and improves balance. The evidence isn't conclusive, says Felicia Cosman, senior clinical director of the National Osteoporosis Foundation, but it's logical to think the vests would be beneficial because "bone responds to the magnitude of the force put on it."
One in two women and about one in four men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis, according to the foundation. Men's risk for osteoporosis increases after age 70 and weighted vests will likely be of benefit, doctors say.
Weighted vests, used for decades for injury rehabilitation and training for firefighters and police, have become popular in recent years as a tool in preventing osteoporosis. The vests typically have slots for half-pound removable weights. Some models, such as the All Pro Power Vest, from All Pro Exercise Products Inc., Hillsborough, N.J., are unisex. Others, such as the $149 model from Healthy Over 50 Inc. of Carpinteria, Calif., are tailored to fit women. The All Pro vest is $85 for a 20-pound version and $120 for one that holds up to 40 pounds.
Since the weighted vest is snug to the body, it is more likely to put beneficial stress on the spine and hips than carrying dumbbells, Wearing the vests while jogging, jumping on a trampoline or climbing stairs is likely to provide more benefit, doctors and physical therapists say.
(snip)
A four-year study of 167 postmenopausal women found bone density was improved by an exercise program that included weight training and stair climbing with a weighted vest. But since the activities were studied together, we can't tell "that the weighted vest made the difference," says Tim Lohman, co-author of the study, published in 2005. Weightlifting is one of the best activities for osteoporosis. It's most important people chose an activity they'll stick with since muscle builds slowly over years, he adds. The vest should fit snugly. If it is too loose, it could throw a person's balance off and cause injuries. Petite women may find a better fit with a women's model rather than a unisex one .Wearing a weight vest may cause a flare-up of pre-existing back or knee injuries, physical therapists say. Build up the weight gradually—and if you feel soreness in your joints, stop using it for a few days.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324139404579017353182585052.html
(If you cannot open by clicking, copy and paste the title onto google)
= new reply since forum marked as read
but all over. And... I don't think that the vest is expected to be worn "24/7."
Nice try, though.
