Getting the body you want without stepping foot in a gym has never been easier. For under $100, you can do great muscle-building, fat-burning workouts literally anywhere you want – at home, in the backyard, at the beach, while traveling, your wherever! How? With resistance bands. They’re just as effective for transforming your body as free weights and machines, yet way more portable and versatile, not to mention affordable.
Shopping for bands can be a bit overwhelming, though, what with all the different products to choose from. Here’s a simple resistance band buyer’s guide to make it easy. Follow these 5 tips and you’ll have the perfect “anywhere gym” within days!
1) Loop Bands vs Tube Bands
There are two main types of bands on the market: loop bands and tube bands. Tube bands typically have handles at either end; loop bands are “closed” and don’t have ends or handles.
While it may seem like handles would make the bands easier to grip, this actually isn’t the case. First of all, gripping the band itself is just as easy as holding a handle. In fact, loop bands offer more grip positions and even allow you to switch grips mid-set.
For overall versatility and effectiveness, you’re better off with loop-style bands than tube bands.
Loop bands are effective for both upper and lower body exercises, HIIT cardio, and muscle-building workouts. They’re also ideal for doing “assisted” versions of difficult bodyweight exercises like pull-ups and dips.
2) Single Band vs Set
Loop bands can be purchased either individually or as a set. To make sure you have appropriate resistances for all exercises, your best bet is to get a 3-band or 5-band set.
Some moves like squats, chest presses, and rows call for thicker (heavy resistance) bands, while other exercises like lateral raises for the shoulders and biceps curls require lighter resistances. With 3-5 different bands to choose from, you’ll be able to load all exercises properly to maximize results.
Economically, a 5-band set offers the greatest value. It only costs around $100, yet it provides all the options of a full set of dumbbells (which cost several hundred dollars, if not more).
3) Consider Band Material: Natural vs. Artificial Latex
Bands come in both natural and artificial latexes. Natural latex is strong, durable, and good for the environment, making it an easy choice over artificial.
Speaking of durability, make sure to purchase a set of bands that comes with a product guarantee in the event of a band defect. Undersun Fitness is one company that offers a lifetime guarantee on all of its resistance bands.
4) Resistance Band Accessories
To maximize the versatility and effectiveness of your resistance bands, consider a few inexpensive accessories:
Anchors – To maximize the number of exercise variations you can do, get either a door anchor or outdoor anchor (or both). A door anchor can be used on any door in your house, and the outdoor anchor is ideal for attaching to trees and other structures outside.
Gloves – Wearing gloves while training with bands will not only protect your skin from irritation; it will also improve grip, particularly on upper body exercises that fatigue the hand and forearm muscles. You can get a high-quality set of gloves from Undersun Fitness for only $29.99.
5) Proper Care For Your Bands
Once you get a set of bands, check for any kind of damage to the product (like nicks or tears). If you see any damage, send the product back as defective. Even the slightest tear in a band can make it weak and prone to failure.
When using the bands, make sure not to anchor them to rough surfaces or anything with a sharp point. Also, make sure you store your bands properly. Keep them out of direct sunlight for extended periods of time, as this will cause wear and tear.
For ultimate portability, store your bands in a backpack so you can grab them and go anytime you want!
