A heavy-handed way to pump up your workouts

Adding even a small amount of weight to your hands and wrists while walking and running will help you burn more calories, improve muscle tone and provide a better cardiovascular workout. The following four products offer a simple and inexpensive way for people of all abilities to squeeze more fitness out of limited workout schedules.

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Mini dumbbells that strap right on

Heavyhands: Mini dumbbells with hand straps.

Likes: Adjusts from 1 to 3 pounds. Respectable arm and chest workout in 3-pound configuration while running and walking.

Dislikes: No storage case or bag, so easy to lose 1-pound weights or plastic end caps. Because your hands are occupied, you can’t carry a water bottle, adjust a treadmill or easily wipe your sweaty forehead. Since they are not attached to your body (as are the other products reviewed here), you could mistakenly leave them behind in the gym.

Price: $19.99. (877) 244-5466; www.heavyhandsfitness.com.

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The weight’s on the back of your hands

Altus Neoprene Weighted Aerobic Glove: Weighted gloves worn on the back of the hand are suitable for aerobics, walking and running.

Likes: Feels natural. Secured with finger loops and Velcro wrist strap; very little movement during running. With the glove on, you can do push-ups, grasp a water bottle and lift weights. Adjustable from one-half to 1 pound per glove; zippered compartment holds two removable half-pound weight packets, with room enough for a couple of keys and coins.

Dislikes: None.

Price: $17.50. (800) 654-3955; www.altusathletic.com.

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Around the wrists with Velcro strips

All Pro Wrist Weights: Two-pound weights that wrap around your wrist with a Velcro closure.

Likes: Comfortable fit. Adjustable weight; each glove contains five removable 0.20-pound metal bars. Provides unlimited movement for your hands.

Dislikes: Slightly more noticeable motion during running and walking than the Altus. Covered wrist area tends to get sweaty.

Price: $20. (800) 735-9287; www.allproweights.com.

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Just call them heavy bracelets

Bell Softone Wrist Weights: Sand-filled 1-pound neoprene wrist rings.

Likes: Very comfortable. Hands completely free, as with the All Pro. Simple design, easy to put on, no straps to affix. Inexpensive.

Dislikes: Tends to move a little on the non-watch hand.

Price: $10.99. (800) 456-2355; www.bellfitness.com.

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-- Roy M. Wallack