Resistance Bands

When it comes to versatility and value for money, few bits of kit could offer you as much value and versatility as a resistance band.

What are resistance, bands?

These popular pieces of training equipment are flexible, seamlessly-constructed latex rubber bands or tubes which come in a variety of shapes and sizes, all of which provide differing levels of resistance.

Why should I invest in a resistance band (or even a whole set)?

Resistance bands are becoming a regular sight in gyms, training grounds, homes and even outdoors across the country – but what is it about this piece of apparatus that has got so many people talking?

They are versatile:

Many people around the world have found resistance bands to be a valuable addition to their workout equipment collections.  These simple, but effective bits of kit can be used as an alternative to free weights or resistance machines, making them a powerful addition to any exercise regime.  They can be used to do strength training, aerobics, plyometric training, rehabilitation, speed, agility, and much more.  They are so versatile that you can be imaginative and use them for whatever you want to make your training that little bit more exciting and rewarding.

What exercises can I use resistance bands for?

Resistance bands can be incorporated into many different exercises, including: Bicep Curls Triceps Extensions Upright Row Press-Ups Bench Press Lateral Raise Squats Pull-Ups

Are they effective:

Resistance bands can be an effective tool for improving muscle flexibility, boosting joint mobility and helping your body to learn how to stabilise on demand.  They can also help you to burn more calories and maximise a rigorous cardio circuit. During strength training exercises which use resistance bands, the muscles being worked at any one time will stay in constant tension.  When combined with more conventional free weight exercises, it will help to create a more varied challenge for your muscles.

They are convenient:

Due to their portable size and light-weight, resistance bands are perfect for home gyms or areas where space is at a premium.  If you need to work-out whilst on the road, a set of resistance bands can be thrown into a bag and taken with you anywhere. For outdoor training in hard-to-reach places (for example: across mountainous terrain), resistance bands can open up challenging new possibilities where other methods would be impractical. As well as being easy to carry around with you, they are easy to set up.  You just need to get them out of your bag, unravel them and you are ready to go.  No time wasted setting up your sessions, which means more time to work out.

The only training tool you will ever need…

Once you get your first ever resistance band, you will never do a workout without it.  Whether you train at the gym or at home, you will notice that your workouts become more effective.  As well as their versatility and convenience, they are great value for money!