Resistance Bands - Should we resist them?
Resistance bands became very popular in the pandemic when people couldn’t go to the gym.
So are they worth it or should we just resist the trend, lets find out.
They do not take up much space, which is great for doing workouts at home or while travelling. They have different levels of resistance and you can usually tell from the thickness of the band and the colour! There are different types of resistance bands:
Flat Bands: These are the smallest of bands and are mainly used for rehabilitation. These bands are great for stretching and toning muscles.
Pull-up Bands: These are the ones you mainly see all the fitness enthusiasts using. They have more benefits compared to flat bands. They are great for a full-body workout.
Tube Resistance bands: These bands have handles and can be anchored anywhere. They give a more gym-like feel when used. These bands are great for chest presses, curls, back rows and shoulder presses. As well as any other pushing or pulling exercises
Figure 8 bands: Named after their shape are great for beginners and great for an easy transition. They are great for upper or lower body workouts.
Lateral Resistance bands: Have straps/cuffs and are aimed at the lower body. These bands are great for lower body workouts.
Light Therapy Resistance Bands: They are long and thin free bands that do not have a loop but you can tie one in. They are great for people regaining strength after an injury and for a low impact workout.
Most of us know that strength training is vital because it can slow down muscle deterioration as we get older which is why they are widely used in physical rehabilitation.
They are also great as they come in a range of different resistance so they are inclusive of all different levels of training. For the older generation and younger generation, it is a safe alternative to weights which is great as not everyone can get to a gym. It also helps with improving balance and flexibility.
However, there are pros and cons to resistance bands as well:
Pros
○ Cost-effective - instead of paying lots of money for all the weights you will need or a monthly gym membership.
○ Easier to build strength with - this is because they can optimise muscle tension providing you with a better workout.
○ Compact and lightweight - so they can be used at home or travelling as they don’t take up much space or weigh a lot.
○ Easy to differentiate the band’s resistance - their bright colours help identify which band, the lighter the band colour the less resistance it has.
○ Reduced risk of injury.
Cons
○ Have maximum resistance - over time your body will get used to the resistance and therefore in the future you will need to add weights to your workout to continue with your fitness goals.
○ They can break - depending on the quality of the band you have bought.
○ Limited muscle growth - if you are looking for a bodybuilder physique, resistance bands are not the way to go.
