When the pandemic started, gyms were one of the first places that were closed down. Fitness buffs found themselves in a conundrum as they couldn’t work out and lift weights as they usually do. Yes, some have their own gym at home, but not everyone has enough space for those bulky weights and equipment.
Many gym-goers rediscovered resistance loop bands and their flexibility (pun intended)! Now people switch from weights to resistance bands and get their workout at home or wherever they are.
If you, too, are looking for a way to be more physically active or you want to add more spice to your usual routines, read on and find out why resistance bands may be what you’re looking for:
What Are Resistance Bands?
Resistance bands look like large rubber bands and measure around 4 inches in width. They are usually elastic and expandable via a small, built-in loop or handle.
Resistance bands are usually made of latex, rubber, or any other type of elastic material. They are commonly used as fitness aids such as resistance training and rehabilitation.
These bands can pull up to 150 pounds. That’s very strong compared to dumbbells. But they are very light and easy to carry around. This makes them popular in the gym, at home, and among athletes.
What Are They For?
Resistance bands are used for various training purposes, either for rehabilitation, strength training, or sport-specific training.
These bands are also used by physiotherapists, physical therapists, sports trainers, and chiropractors to aid their patients with their recovery.
What Kinds of Exercises Can You Do With Them?
You can do hundreds of exercises with these bands. There are even bands just for your upper body and the other for your lower body. You can do core training and abdominals with them too. You can also use these to replace the barbell when doing shoulder exercises, squats, or leg press.
You can also use these bands to warm up, cool down, and add more resistance and intensity to your regular workouts.
These are some of the exercises you can do with resistance bands:
- Squats
- Jumping
- Bent over rows
- Deadlifts
- Medicine ball throws
- Squats
- Step-ups
- Planks
Can They Take the Place of Weights?
Weight training is excellent for building muscles and improving your fitness level. But the more weight you lift, the greater the strain on the joints and muscles.
Resistance bands are just the opposite. Even if you use light bands, you still get the same benefits of weight training. And because light bands have very little strain on your joints, you can use them even if you have injuries.
How Can You Choose the Right Band for Your Needs?
Resistance bands have different resistances. The most common resistance is 10 pounds. These are very sturdy and can be used for higher-level training such as strength training or powerlifting.
If you are on the beginner level when it comes to weight training, you may want to use the light bands. These bands have the least resistance and can be used by everyone.
The higher the level of your workout, the heavier the band you should use.
Conclusion
Resistance bands can be great additions to your workouts, whether by adding them to your regular resistance workouts or by replacing free weights altogether.
They are very easy to carry around, cheaper than bars and dumbbells, and require no special care. They fit in small spaces, too.
When choosing your resistance bands, remember to consult your trainer or doctor first. Then, choose a band according to your training level and the goal you are working for.
When you’re ready to start incorporating resistance bands in your workouts, make sure you choose POWERBANDS®, the highest quality resistance bands in Australia that are perfect for any type of exercise you want to do. Check out our collection of bands today!
