A resistance band is an exercise tool which has many advantages. These bands are made of rubber and a force has to be applied to a particular extent to stretch the bands. A resistance band has two handles attached to either side it. The handles are used to pull the band closer to you by looping the whole equipment around a tree or even under your own feet.
Resistance bands are convenient to use since they are light in weight. You can also carry them in your suitcase along with you when you travel. Also, they are multipurpose and can be used in place of a lot of equipment you use at the gym.
Sadly, people who are very dedicated to exercise and strength training do not like the purpose of resistance bands. But for beginners resistance bands are very useful if you have bought the right type. The band will give you a lot of resistance, even up to 300lbs. Moreover, they can be folded and can multiply the challenge and thus its effect.
Versatility of Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are also used along with other kinds of training. For example, a normal body weight exercise that is restricted by gravity can be made more challenging if you loop the band around your back. Similarly, a bench press can be made difficult by looping the bands over a barbell. An advantage of resistance bands is that you can unhook them very easily and quickly.
Resistance bands do not strain your grip or your joints, hence making it unlikely to fall off. This benefit ultimately means that you can explore new exercises using them since you cannot be daring enough using weights. These bands are quite beneficial for people who practice martial arts because they can provide extra resistance to punches. They build up strength and add speed so that you will punch harder and faster when you punch without the bands.
Resistance bands are generally safer if used the right way. They are designed even for the elderly and also the youngsters. A light resistance band can be made more challenging by changing its angle or distance from the fixing point.
Difference between Good and Bad Resistance Bands
Good resistance bands are made from durable and strong materials that do not snap. Weaker materials have a high chance of pinging and whipping the band back at you.
Some resistance bands are designed in a way that their bands can be changed. In this way, a lighter band can be replaced with a heavier one. Even multiple bands can be attached to the handles at a time to perform a drop-set.
Longer resistance bands can offer more creative strength training like providing resistance while doing drills like crawls, etc.
Limitations of using a Resistance Band
Resistance bands act differently at different positions. For instance, when closer to the anchor point, it becomes easier as force applied is less; whereas while moving further from the anchor point, it gets harder as force applied is greater. This is a limitation since it is difficult to train consistently throughout the entire workout. Moreover, bands that offer greater resistance can be a struggle especially when working out away from the anchor point. In case of bench press, you will have to loop the bands so tight that they might restrict the range of motion.
In addition to this, elastic bands are not so steadfast in order to build muscles. The bands are directional which is a major disadvantage. It makes the movement easier thus effecting your body less.
Conclusion
Resistance bands have been neglected by many people thinking they are of no use, however they can provide great results if used properly. They are quite proficient than most of us might realise. The bands are multipurpose, portable, and quite challenging. Yet they do have limitations and would not be enough for someone who is bodybuilding. Lastly, it can be said that resistance bands are ideal for some people but for most, they cannot replace actual weights.
