Resistance bands are a great tool to use for strength training workouts. After being invented in the early 1900’s for muscle rehabilitation, they have made quite a comeback, steadily gaining in popularity since the 1990’s. Not only are they affordable and convenient, exercises with resistance are often much more effective.
If you’re thinking of investing in some exercise equipment at home, resistance bands are a good place to start. Not only are exercises with resistance more effective, but there are many different options when it comes to level of fitness, plus the exercises are easy to follow and they can be done from the comfort of your own home!
Before we get started with our workout, let’s take some time to learn about resistance bands, including the different kinds of bands and how to choose the right one for you.
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Different Kinds of Resistance Bands
Originally made from surgical tubing, resistance bands come in many forms of rubber, both in latex and non-latex varieties.
- Flat Bands: Flat rubber material cut to specific lengths for exercise and rehab purposes. Can be tied to make a circle band for both upper and lower body moves.
- Tubing: Tube rubber band with handles on either end to hold.
- Looped/Circle Band: Fixed, pre-made circle band. These come in small circles in rubber or cloth covered for comfort, and large which are great for full body and pull-up assistance.
Bands come in a variety of colors which correlates to the resistance they are. Each brand color codes differently, so use each individual guide to determine which is right for you. A good rule of thumb is to get a variety, ranging from light, medium, and heavy.
If you’re new to resistance bands, start with the light and move up from there. It might also depend on the exercise and body part that is being used.