Deciding what type of resistance equipment to use can be quite confusing. While dumbbells are usually the first thing people think of for building strength, elastic resistance bands are definitely a contender for being the ideal type of resistance equipment. The decision between resistance bands and dumbbells is a matter of personal preference.
Resistance bands are an excellent option for increasing muscle strength and endurance. They are also easy to carry around and use at home or even at the gym. As for dumbbells, they are used to provide resistance during strength training workouts and other exercises.
What to Consider When Comparing Resistance Bands to Dumbbells
Accessibility
First of all, dumbbells are not as portable as resistance bands. You would need to have a good space for storing a few dumbbells. On the other hand, resistance bands can be brought and used just about anywhere.
If you are a gym-goer, then dumbbells are a better option. But if you are looking for a way to exercise at home, then resistance bands are your best bet.
Variety
Another important consideration is the number of exercises that you can accomplish with each type of resistance equipment.
The amount of exercises possible with resistance bands is not as many as with dumbbells. Dumbbells, on the other hand, allow you to work out more muscles at the same time. This is because you can easily engage multiple muscle groups by using dumbbells.
Cost
The cost of resistance bands and dumbbells is also something to take into consideration. There are some good quality resistance bands that are available at an affordable price. If you are just starting out, you can opt to buy a few resistance bands that you can use to target different muscle groups.
Dumbbells can also be quite affordable. While there are some good quality dumbbells that can cost a little more, there are others that are available at a cheaper price. You can opt to buy a few dumbbells from the get-go. Alternatively, you can also buy just one or two dumbbells and see how it goes.
Flexibility
Resistance bands are thinner and lighter than dumbbells and provide more flexibility in terms of exercise variation. You can find them from very light to very heavy resistance bands. You can also find them in various thicknesses, lengths and levels of elasticity. Band training can be used for a wide variety of workouts, including body-weight exercises, cross-training and agility training. Resistance bands are often used as an alternative to dumbbells for stretching exercises.
Dumbbells, on the other hand, are heavier and require more space to store. They are usually used for muscle building, which is why they are not as flexible. Dumbbells are generally better for building muscular strength, power and endurance.
Which Is the Best to Use
While both are worth the investment, it is important that you know these equipment types have different uses. Dumbbells are a great choice for beginners. The weights have the same size and weight and can be easily adjusted, which is perfect for weight training exercises. You can also use them to work on balance and stability.
On the other hand, resistance bands are a great option for adding resistance to exercises. Another thing to consider is that they do not take up much space in your home or in your gym bag.
Conclusion
The decision between resistance bands and dumbbells does not have to be difficult. Depending on what you are looking to achieve, both will provide you with the results you want. However, performing resistance band exercises with dumbbells can make your workout more efficient.
POWERBANDS® can help you choose from a variety of resistance bands in Australia that are excellent for stretches and are perfect for strength training and increasing muscle tone. Let us help you find the perfect band to suit all your exercise needs. Browse through our band products today!
