Weighted Vest vs Dip Belt – Which Should You Choose?

Introduction
As you get stronger in calisthenics, bodyweight alone may not be enough to keep building muscle and strength. That’s when adding extra weight comes in. Two of the most common tools for this are weighted vests and dip belts. Both work, but which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.

Weighted Vest

Pros:

  • Distributes weight evenly across your body

  • Great for exercises where you can’t use a belt (push-ups, sprints, handstand push-ups)

  • Feels natural for movements that mimic real-life loads (running, climbing)

Cons:

  • Usually limited in maximum weight (often up to 40–60 lbs)

  • Can feel restrictive during high-intensity or technical moves

Dip Belt

Pros:

  • Can load very heavy (100+ lbs if needed)

  • Great for progressive overload in dips and pull-ups

  • Doesn’t restrict breathing or upper body movement

Cons:

  • Not suitable for floor-based moves or dynamic skills

  • Weight hangs low, which can feel awkward for some exercises

Which Should You Choose?
If you mainly want to make pull-ups and dips heavier, go with a dip belt.
If you want to add resistance to a variety of exercises, including push-ups, squats, and sprints, a weighted vest is more versatile.

Many advanced calisthenics athletes eventually own both, starting with one depends on your training focus.

Final Thoughts
Progressive overload is key to getting stronger. Whether you choose a vest, a belt, or eventually both, the important thing is to keep challenging your body in a smart and sustainable way.


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