A new fitness product gets Team Buff excited because, well, we're a little obsessed. If it's not something for our hair or skin, it's for our muscles. (Nothing wrong with remaining pretty!)
Lately, I've been intrigued by the potential benefits of weighted vests, and after a considerable amount of research, I decided to take the plunge and invest in the Zelus Weighted Vest. I've been using it consistently for the past few weeks and it's been an interesting experience.
Design and Comfort:
The Zelus Weighted Vest boasts a sleek and functional design. Made from a breathable nylon Oxford cloth, the vest feels surprisingly comfortable, even during intense workouts. The adjustable straps across the torso and shoulders allow for a snug and secure fit, minimizing bouncing and shifting during exercises like running or jumping jacks. (As a marathon runner, this is huge for me.)
This adjustability is crucial, as a poorly fitted vest can be distracting and even lead to injury. I appreciated the attention to detail in the design, like the reinforced stitching in high-stress areas, indicating a commitment to longevity.
The vest I opted for has evenly distributed weight pockets, which are filled with iron sand. I found this distribution to be excellent, preventing awkward imbalances and ensuring a consistent load throughout my workouts. The weight packets are also removable, allowing for incremental adjustments to the overall weight, a feature that’s particularly useful for beginners or those looking to gradually increase the intensity.
Performance and Versatility:
The real test of any fitness product is its performance in action. I've incorporated the Zelus Weighted Vest into a variety of exercises, including:
Walking and Running: Adding the vest to my regular walks (the bosses have two dogs and Team Buff takes part in the daily walks sometimes) and runs (as mentioned, I'm a marathon runner) has significantly increased the challenge, forcing my cardiovascular system to work harder and boosting calorie burn. I’ve noticed a definite improvement in my stamina and endurance. (Nothing wrong with a Buff Boy having surging stamina, right? Oh god, I'm starting to sound like Collin.)
Bodyweight Exercises: Exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges and pull-ups have become noticeably more challenging and effective with the added weight. The vest forces me to engage more muscles to stabilize my body, leading to greater strength gains.
Strength Training: I've also incorporated the vest into my strength training routine, using it during exercises like dumbbell rows and shoulder presses. It allows me to progressively overload my muscles, promoting hypertrophy and increasing overall strength. In fact, I've noticed lots of people wearing weighted vests at the gym so this kind of product is definitely on trend.
What I particularly appreciate is the versatility of this vest. It’s not just for hardcore workouts; I've even worn it to add a little extra resistance to my daily activities.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Durable and Well-Made: The robust construction ensures longevity and can withstand rigorous workouts.
Adjustable Fit: The adjustable straps provide a secure and comfortable fit for various body types.
Even Weight Distribution: Prevents imbalances and ensures a consistent load.
Removable Weights: Allows for incremental weight adjustments.
Versatile: Can be used for a wide range of exercises and activities.
Comfortable: Breathable material and thoughtful design make it surprisingly comfortable to wear.
Cons:
Initial Weight Adjustment: It can take a little time to adjust the weight distribution to your liking.
Can Get Warm: While the material is breathable, you can still get warm during intense workouts, especially in hotter climates -- like West Hollywood!
Bulkiness: While relatively streamlined, the vest does add some bulk, which might take some getting used to.
Final Verdict:
Overall, I am extremely satisfied with the Zelus Weighted Vest. It’s a well-designed, durable and versatile piece of fitness equipment that has significantly enhanced my workouts. The adjustable fit, even weight distribution, and removable weights make it a great option for both beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts.
While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the potential for warmth and the initial weight adjustment, the benefits far outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a way to challenge yourself, boost your workout intensity and accelerate your fitness progress, I highly recommend considering this product.