Weighted Accessories for Cross-Training

The sled: pushing, pulling, with no eccentric phase

The sled is a sledge loaded with weights that you can push by the handles or pull with a rope or harness. Pushing mainly works the quads, glutes, and calves; pulling backwards targets the front of the thigh and spares the knee. As there is no braking phase, known as eccentric, the exercise doesn’t fatigue the muscles much the next day and can easily fit in between two heavy sessions. The sled has become essential with the rise of Hyrox, a race that started in Hamburg in 2017, where the course alternates eight kilometres of running and eight stations, including a sled push and pull.

The rest of strength training

Strength training accessories also come in various options:

• Weighted vests.
• Lumbar belts.
• Pulling accessories.
• Pull-up bars.
• Body Pump kit.
• Ab wheels.
• Heavy bag.

All accessories can be found on the strength training accessories page.

The Fit & Rack wheelbarrow kit, load on one wheel

Fit & Rack, a French company that designs racks and training equipment manufactured in France, offers this wheelbarrow kit for its WOD sled, sold separately. Once assembled, it adds a wheel and two handles: the sled is lifted and pushed like a construction wheelbarrow. The exercise then changes in nature. The forearms and grip work continuously to hold the handles, the shoulders stabilize the load, and the abdominal strap resists the arch while the legs propel. It’s an ideal station for a conditioning circuit, over a short distance and with a load that can be controlled without deviation.

Weighted wrist and ankle straps: a light and targeted load

Weighted bracelets and ankle weights, typically from half a kilo to two kilos, add modest resistance to repeated movements. At the ankles, they strengthen the glutes during hip extensions on all fours, side leg raises, or leg lifts. At the wrists, they prolong the effort of the shoulders in lateral raises or air boxing sets. The load should be chosen to maintain a slow and controlled movement until the last rep. The weighted bands with velcro should fit snugly around the limb and must be tightened well, to avoid slipping or rubbing against the skin.

Good deals

Good bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearances, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

On what surface can you push a sled?

Synthetic grass, a dedicated track, or a gym carpet ensure a smooth glide. Bare concrete and asphalt quickly wear out the pads and create a jerky push; it’s best to avoid them.

What load should you put on a sled to start?

Start with a load that allows you to keep your back flat and a smooth push over the entire distance. Gradually increase: speed develops explosiveness, while heavy loads build strength.

Which muscles does the weighted wheelbarrow work?

The legs push, but the grip, forearms, shoulders, and abs constantly work to maintain balance. It’s a complete functional strength exercise, similar to movements in everyday life.

Can you run with weighted ankle straps?

It's better to avoid it: the added weight at the end of the leg alters the stride and strains the knee and hip with each impact. Save them for strengthening on the ground or walking at a moderate pace.

How can you integrate the sled into a cross-training session?

Place it at the end of a session or in a circuit, alternating back and forth over twenty to thirty metres, with short recovery. Combined with bodyweight exercises, it raises the heart rate without traumatizing the joints.