SPRI Contour-Weights®

Contour Weights are soft, flexible, weighted, neoprene covered, 28-inch barbell-style tubes. Their design allows them to wrap around (or contour) the body. Nylon stirrups at the ends of the weights may be used as handles for upper-body exercises, positioned around the feet for lower-body exercises, or buckled for secure placement around the waist. The weights range from 9 lb up to 50 lb. An instruction sheet detailing proper usage along with several exercises are included with each weight purchased.

What we liked:

• Contour Weights provide a unique form of resistance because they mold around the body, offering people who have problems holding on to dumbbells or barbells an alternative to lifting traditional weights.
• The large circumference and softness of Contour Weights provide a comfortable alternative to dumbbells for exercises in which the user must grip the weight.
• Contour Weights have a buckle feature, which allows the exerciser to secure the weight around his or her waist while performing a variety of squats and lunges, thereby keeping the hands free.
• Contour Weights are soft and flexible so when they are placed on the body (such as when they are draped over the shoulders) they are comfortable for the exerciser.
• Contour Weights offer variety to a traditional resistance-training program.

What we didn't like:

• Because Contour Weights are covered with a porous, neoprene fabric, they allow sweat and moisture to penetrate the surface, which means they can become soiled and trap odors over time.
• While the heavier Contour Weights (greater than 15 lb) are soft and flexible like the lighter ones, they can still be uncomfortable when draped over the body (such as the shoulders and torso area) or when buckled around the waist.
• The nylon straps at both ends of the Contour Weights are promoted as handles, but the straps can be awkward and uncomfortable to hold.

October 9, 2009