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Walking Tip #15: Should You Use Hand Weights?

VIDEO Heather Kahn Reports

Should I use hand weights?

--To boost the calorie burn, it's better to walk faster with a vigorous arm action. In fact, 50% to 75% of the increased energy expenditure of walking with weights comes simply from swinging your arms (without the weights).

--For upper body muscle toning, simply use weights for a concentrated 15 minute upper body workout AFTER your walk two to three days a week--it will be more effective than carrying lighter weights for a full walk.

BETTER WAYS TO BOOST A CALORIE BURN
--Walk faster, with a bent-arm action
--Walk up hills
--Do intervals--short bursts of very high speed walking

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