Weighted Gloves with Step

[melanalyus]

Last week I started using my 2-lb weighted gloves with my step workouts. I've always used them for my kickboxing---but now with STEP workouts. It makes it tougher & I've already noticed some tightening in my shoulders and arms.

Anyone else do this? I've never seen it done in videos---as weights are usually not recommended with jumps and such.

 

[melanalyus]

Noone else does this? I must be the only one then,...wouldn't be the first time.

 

[RapidBreath]

Thats a good idea

Now I have a good reason to get a weighted pair of gloves. mmmm. (Maybe I should get a paper route to augment my income? I have a bike.)

 

[kathryn]

I wouldn't do it except for very basic step and controlled arm movements (like Firm workouts, that are choreographed to use weights). Too much uneccesary strain possible on elbows and shoulders (but I'm for safety first).

 

[melanalyus]

I've used the weighted gloves with all my step workouts. I've been using weighted gloves with all my kickboxing workouts for years and am used to the extra weight. It adds 4lbs to my weight---probably alot like a vest, except focused on arms. I don't find it ackward at all. If you're not used to weighted gloves, I wouldn't suggest it though---until you're adept with it.

 

[LuvExercise]

I wouldn't do it except for very basic step and controlled arm movements (like Firm workouts, that are choreographed to use weights). Too much uneccesary strain possible on elbows and shoulders (but I'm for safety first).

I'm with Kathryn. There must be a reason why we've never seen the professionals do it. Why not ask Cathe what she thinks about it?

 

[melanalyus]

Jumping with weights is usually taboo'd, especially with step.

I was just wondering if anyone else is naughty and does it too? I've never been one to follow the rules to the tee.

 

[LuvExercise]

You're such a rebel! I don't even do step, but I probably had hi-lo on the mind when I first replied to this thread. In any case, I don't wear weighted gloves if I'm not doing a kickboxing workout.

 

[melanalyus]

OH, I"ve been using hand weights in hi/lo for years.

 

[LauraMax]

I'm confused--why would wearing hand weights during step be any more or less dangerous than during KB? Seems to me if anything the KB would be riskier than the lower impact arm movements used during step.

Obviously my opinion is, if you feel like you're getting a better workout, then go for it!

 

[mackenzie]

Sometimes I use my weighted gloves. It definitely increases the intensity!

 

[melanalyus]

I'm not alone?!?!?

 

[kathryn]

I think it's more risky during step both because of the impact of step, but mostly because the arm movements are not controlled and paid attention to the way they are in kickboxing (I do think one should be cautious using them for KB as well: starting out light and for a short time, making sure to have punching form down before adding them, to make sure to never lock the joints, etc.)

Exceptions would be step workouts like the Firms, where the movements are very controlled, and the step isn't high impact.

Some instructors do have step workouts with handweights--Gilad is one--but the arm movements are a bit different from some you'd find in other workouts (ie: no 'circular' movements, like bringing the hands out to the sides, then together at the top; no 'party arms' movements. Mostly bicep curls, overhead presses, etc.)

 

[LauraMax]

I'm still confused. Partly b/c any arm movements in exercise should be controlled, but also b/c I'm not seeing how circular movements are dangerous.

 

[melanalyus]

I can see Kathryn's point of view... When doing step, your arms are going with the flow, doing what comes natural. When lifting weights, there is definite purpose with your arms...your focusing on triceps, biceps, shoulders, etcetera. Basically, with step you just try to keep your arms over your head as much as possible to keep intensity up, right?

I did Amy's ASC2 with 2lb hand weights today. It IS much tougher. I like it, even if it is naughty.

 

[tygra]

I, too, have used weighted gloves for step workouts and hi low workouts. When the arms are fast, I improvise to keep it safer. I do not do it all the time, but I do like the added intensity and upper body concentration.

 

[atgood]

This is a great discussion! I hope Cathe answers, because I'm now intrigued about whether to start using weighted gloves with step. I don't do step much anymore, but this might entice me back into doing it!