Dumbbells are often the first things people think of when they consider outfitting their home gyms. However, they are expensive and space-consuming. Due to their absence of moving parts, resistance bands are far more versatile and cost-effective, making them a better choice for inclusion in a home gym.
What are Resistance Bands?
Resistance bands are flexible strands made with latex or other materials that offer varying resistance levels. They are used to add resistance to exercises like bicep curls or tricep extensions. Physical therapists often use resistance bands to rehabilitate injuries and improve strength.
Resistance Bands vs. Dumbbells
Dumbbells are the traditional way to build strength and muscle in your home gym, but they are expensive and take up a lot of room. The most significant advantages of resistance bands over dumbbells are:
Price. A set of resistance bands is significantly cheaper than a set of dumbbells. You can often buy a complete set of resistance bands for less than the price of a single dumbbell.
Space. Resistance bands take up far less room than a set of dumbbells.
Versatility. Resistance bands offer more versatility than dumbbells. Bands can be anchored to a door frame, which allows you to work several muscle groups in one exercise.
Durability. Resistance bands are more durable than dumbbells and will last for years if properly cared for.
Safety. Resistance bands are safer to use than dumbbells. You won't need to worry about dropping a weight on your foot or a piece of equipment falling on you.
What Exercises Can You Do With Resistance Bands?
Resistance bands offer several benefits that dumbbells cannot, making them a valuable addition to any home gym. For example, they are often anchored to a door frame, which provides a stable base that can be used to stretch, strengthen and rehabilitate muscles. The bands can also be looped over the top of a door, allowing you to target various muscles.
Legs. Resistance bands are perfect for adding resistance to leg exercises. For example, anchor the band to a door frame and wrap it around your leg. This allows you to work your muscles and add resistance. Additionally, you can use a resistance band to add resistance to your squats and lunges.
Upper body. Resistance bands are often used during physical therapy sessions to restore function to joints and muscles. They are a great way to build strength in your upper body. You can add resistance with bands to several upper body exercises, including bench presses and chest presses.
Core. Using a resistance band to anchor your feet between two surfaces, such as a chair and the floor, allows you to work your core muscles. The band will force your body to work to stay in place, strengthening your core muscles.
Lower body. Resistance bands can add resistance to several lower body exercises and stretches. You can use a resistance band to work out your lower body by wrapping it around your legs and anchoring it to a door frame.
Arms. The most common exercise with resistance bands is bicep curls, but they can also be used to build strength in your triceps. Bands can also be used to build strength and muscle in your forearm.
Conclusion
Resistance bands offer many benefits over dumbbells, including portability and versatility. Adding resistance bands to your home gym is an excellent way to increase your strength and improve your physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. They can also work your muscles on the road, which is a massive benefit over dumbbells.
If you are concerned about durability, you can find very durable, solid core resistance bands that can be used for many years.
If you are looking for some of the best resistance bands in Australia, turn to POWERBANDS®. We offer premium-quality exercise bands to meet and exceed your demanding exercise needs. Please browse our shop and start your fitness journey with workout bands today!
