Strength and gym
Sandbag training
Awkward, real-world lifting for strength and grit.
- Hardintensity
- ~490kcal per hour
- Freebudget
- Mediumimpact
Is sandbag training right for you?
Awkward, real-world lifting for strength and grit. It is a hard-intensity, medium impact activity that you can do at home or outdoors, on your own or in a group. Expect to burn around 490 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Anyone can start. You can do it without spending anything.
Why try sandbag training
- Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
- Burns calories. At around 490 kcal an hour it can help with weight loss alongside a balanced diet.
How to start sandbag training
Lift, carry and squat a light sandbag for a 20-minute circuit.
Get the basics: sandbag. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.
Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 15 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 2 | 20 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 3 | 25 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 3 | 30 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure sandbag training is for you?
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