Episode
288. Weighted Vest Training for Runners: Helpful or Harmful? What You Need to Know with Coach Cat
- Podcast
- Healthy Runner Podcast
- Published
- Nov 20, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 3598
- Processing state
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Summary
Should you run or walk with a weighted vest to get stronger or faster? Or is it just another social media fitness fad that can lead to injury? In this episode, Dr. Duane Scotti sits down with Coach Cat from the Spark Healthy Runner team to break down the science behind weighted vest training for runners. Together, they uncover what fitness influencers often get wrong and explain when (and how) a weighted vest might actually be helpful — and when it can do more harm than good. You'll learn: - Whether weighted vests really help with bone density, weight loss, or speed - Why runners over 40 should be cautious before adding extra load - The truth behind "1 pound adds 4 pounds of pressure" on your joints - Safe alternatives to build strength without increasing injury risk - A simple, evidence-based way to strengthen your running body year-round If you've ever wondered whether a weighted vest can take your training to the next level or just add unnecessary stress to your joints, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in and discover how to run stronger, faster, and injury-free…no gimmicks required. There are six steps to growing in your trail running journey so you can enjoy it and stay healthy! Learn them here ! Want to start running (the right way) without getting injured? Download our blueprint here! Get all of coach Cat's previous trainings here! Follow along with coach Cat's 30-Minute Treadmill workout for runners here! Listen to our previous episode on 6-Steps to get strong this winter here! Listen to our previous episode on how to build a solid foundation with base training here! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expe…