Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply want to improve your workouts, you might have already come across resistance bands.
These handy pieces of equipment were used initially in physical therapy to help patients recover from injuries. However, they are becoming increasingly common in our mainstream exercise routines too (as a quick glance through the latest YouTube workouts will prove).1If you’re thinking about incorporating resistance bands into your training routines, we’ve got everything you need to know below.
You can use resistance bands for a wide variety of different exercises or movements. They can either make the workout easier or harder, depending on the type of band you use and the way you use it. You can use them for both cardio and strength training. They’re a great alternative to weight lifting too.
While that might sound a bit complicated, resistance bands are incredibly accessible. Whatever your skill level or workout requirements, you should find a resistance band to suit your needs.3There is a vast range of resistance bands on the market, and they can vary between manufacturers. Generally, though, you’ll find three different tension levels (light, medium, and heavy). It’s usually a good idea to in a variety of tensions, as you may need to mix and match depending on which part of the body you are targeting.
You’ll also find a variety of styles on the market. These may include:4You can use resistance bands in all areas of your workout. Some ideas include:
Like when using your resistance bands for cardio, keep your form in mind when incorporating them into your strength training. It can feel a bit strange at first, so take time to get used to your bands before you try anything too complicated. There are plenty of tutorials available online for all levels of experience, so it’s worth watching an expert to help get you started.
Shop Sports NutritionLast updated: 18 December 2020