I work out with a personal trainer.
He suggested that I try resistance bands and workout with them at home. I was not convinced that such a simple component could provide much in the way of strength benefits. I usually lift with free weights. However, I continually travel for work and free weights can’t be packed in a carry-on. After working out resistance bands, I have seen how well a single band works all the major muscle groups and can be customized to suit my fitness level. Resistance bands are constructed from surgical tubing and were originally intended for muscle rehabilitation. They have increased in popularity in workouts targeted at senior citizens. While a conventional dumbbell and machines are helpful for increasing strength in specific areas, they don’t provide much versatility. A resistance band accommodated all different positions to reach a variety of muscles. The options provided by the bands makes them an especially efficient and effective tool. A bicep curl with a free weight is a rigid motion and repeats the same exertion of the same muscles over and over. The instability of a resistance band forces the muscle fibers throughout the arms and shoulders to engage, working all of them. Plus, I was able to buy a top quality band for under twenty dollars. I can easily pack the fitness bands in my bag when I travel. The band slips into my suitcase without any trouble. It is compact, lightweight and can be taken anywhere. The type of resistance band I have is a lengthy cylindrical tube with a plastic handle at each end. This style of band is offered in a range of thicknesses, which changes the intensity level. There are other models such as braided tubes that are made up of four separate strands woven together for greater durability. I’ve also seen flat bands that are more common for physical therapy and senior citizens. There are also bands that are made specifically for partner training.