HOW TO USE THE RPT SHORTS
- Initially the weighted pants should only be used partially loaded. DO NOT load the pants maximally. the weights should be distributed in a balanced manner. In addition, for every weight placed on the right leg of the pants, one should be loaded in the corresponding pocket on the left leg of the pants. This helps balance the weight around the hip joint.
- It is beneficial to place one or more weights on the sides of the hips. This is especially required for sports in which cutting-type actions are executed. In addition, it is advisable to place more weights on the upper row and not the bottom row. This reduces the momentum generated and should keep the hip joints injury-free.
- For the first few days the pants should be used in walking and easy jogging-type activities. Do not begin running at maximum speed. This should occur only after several weeks of wear when the body is accustomed to the effects of the weight resistance and the muscles are able to accommodate the increased level of stress, which may be generated. Gradually, increase the level of use and the number of weights. This is especially true for the beginner. Experienced athletes who possess accomplished levels of hip and leg strength can incorporate the use of weighted pants at a faster rate.
The number of weights should be gradually increased providing no discomfort is experienced. When progressive incensement of weight is used there should be no muscular or joint problems associated with the weighted pants. It is essential to be cautious with the rate at which weights are to be added. The number of weights used should be gradually increased; keeping in mind that the minimum addition is two weights, in order to maintain balance.
- It is helpful to insert the weights before the pants are put on. This will give better appreciation of how much weight is being carried. If weight is added when the pants are already being worn, there may be a tendency to overload. Consequently, some athletes add more weight than they should. It is important to understand that during running each weight may effectively achieve a weight of three or four times its normal 4.5 ounces, especially if leg movement is fast. The faster the movement, the greater the momentum generated. This is especially relevant in swinging leg movements. Because of this, you should not maximally load the bottom row of the pants. Doing so can create tremendous momentum, which may be difficult for the muscles and ligaments of the hip to restrain. However, when more weight is placed closer to the hip (top row) there is less momentum and consequently a safer and more beneficial workout.
- Following one to two weeks of walking and jogging activities, the intensity of activity and range of movement may gradually be increased. It is possible to begin running short distances and even execute some mild jumping.
However, if the predominated sporting activity involves high levels of jumping (i.e. basketball or volleyball), use of the weighted pants should be accompanied by conventional exercises to strengthen leg muscles. The legs must be strong enough to withstand the stresses of jumping with additional weight.
- In the early stages of training, it is inadvisable to play games such as basketball, volleyball or soccer while wearing weighted pants. Once acclimatized to wearing weighted pants it is safe and extremely beneficial to play sports in them (with light weights), but only for two to three days per week. Do not play with the pants fully loaded. Doing so may cause injury.
- It is vital to distribute the weights according to the specific needs of your principal sport. For example, in order to increase running speed, most of the weights should be placed on the front and back of the legs. If training for a sport such as basketball or tennis or for example a running back in football, it is advisable to add more weights on the sides and less in the front and back. This produces improvements in cutting actions. Most athletes require more than one leg action. Consequently, it is advisable to alternate weight placement during different training sessions where appropriate exercises should be employed. This ultimately will develop more all-around physical development, agility, balance and skills.
LOADING THE WEIGHT BAR INTO THE WEIGHT PANEL
Make sure when loading the weight bar that you put the flat surface against the body, facing inwards. Each weight panels has an inner lip for safety reasons. Push the weight all the way into the weight panel and pull the lip over the weight bar. When you are looking into the weight panel, you shouldn’t see the weight bar. That means you have loaded it correctly. Make sure you have locked the weight bar into the weight panel correctly to prevent weight bars from falling out.
(SEE LOAD PRINCIPLES AND PROTOCOLS TAB)
IMPORTANT NOTE:
WHEN PUTTING A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF WEIGHT BARS ON THE LEFT SIDE, YOU SHOULD PUT THE SAME AMOUNT ON THE RIGHT SIDE IN THE SAME PLACE. THIS IS FOR BALANCE, SAFETY AND COMFORT.
