Why do we like them?
Honestly, there are several reasons. For starters, resistance bands are one of the most versatile pieces of exercise equipment you can find. According to most experts, they can be used in over one hundred exercises and they can pinpoint any and every major muscle group.
These bands can be used by virtually anyone from the old man with joint problems to the bodybuilder who is preparing for a tournament. That is because resistance bands are available in different sizes, materials, and resistance levels. They can be stretched to about five feet and they create tension that is similar to expensive machines and free weights.
Inexpensive compared to a home gym
Compared to a home gym or even an annual health club membership, resistance bands are incredibly affordable. A full set can be purchased at any sporting goods store for less than 50 dollars.
Easier on the joints than free weights
Let’s face it, not everyone can work out with weights. For instance, if a person is suffering from joint or back pain it is highly unlikely that they have the range of motion they need to use free weights. In fact, that is one of the reasons why Nautilus was introduced and why it is so popular with older people who suffer from arthritis and other common ailments.
Strengthen neglected muscle groups
Believe it or not, resistance bands can be used to accomplish something that expensive machines often cannot-they can be used to strengthen neglected muscle groups. After all, machines and free weights have definite limits when it comes to the number of exercises that can be properly performed, but resistance bands don’t seem to have those restrictions. As we mentioned, resistance bands can be used in well over one hundred different exercises.
Highly Portable
If you are someone who travels quite a bit, it can be expensive and time consuming to try to book a room at a hotel that has a descent workout room. But when you own resistance bands all you need is a little extra room in your bag. We do mean a little! Resistance bands are only about the size of a standard jump rope and they weight about the same.
Easy to use
Okay, so how do they work? Well, every elastic resistance band comes with something called a door anchor. Essentially, it is just a foam pad with a bulbous end that is placed in a doorway, the door is then closed, and owner is free to attach resistance bands to a loop that protrudes from the crack in the door.
Versatility
The thicker the resistance band the greater the tension. That means people can use resistance bands for virtually anything. Weight lifters can use extremely thick bands to give them the muscle building tension they need, while aerobic enthusiasts can used thin bands to get a good cardio vascular workout.
In closing, while no one piece of workout equipment can please all of the people all of the time, resistance bands appear to be pretty darn close. They are perfect for people of all different fitness and strength levels and they can be used just about anywhere. Not to mention the fact that they are extremely durable and cheap.
| Bowflex, Total Gym and even Bally’s have a $50alternative – Bodylastics! |
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What I like about the resistance band is the ability to make a different workout with the used of only two bands..
Thanks for the tips! I like it!
I agree, the resistance band has to be the most versatile piece of equipment on the market. I’ll never go back to weights again!!