Resistance bands – how can this nifty bit of kit help you?

Loops, bands, all different colours, some with handles, some with knots - all serve a different purpose. Resistance bands are by far my favourite piece of kit and can have many different benefits!

Did you know that adults aged 19-64 should do strengthening exercises that work all the major muscles at least twice per week? Resistance bands can offer one method of strengthening your muscles (NHS, 2019).

Benefits of resistance band training

• Resistance bands can also be used to assist exercises such as pull ups.

• To make exercises more challenging through increasing load such as the band across your shoulder blades during push-ups.

• Lightweight and easy to carry - perfect for those outdoor workouts!

Supports holding difficult positions - ideal for those with limited flexibility or those who need additional support.

What can resistance bands be used for?

Resistance bands are made from rubber or a latex-free material, and can be used as a part of a full body workout or to focus upon targeted areas or assist with injury rehabilitation.

If you are struggling to activate certain muscles during an exercise and overwork other muscle groups it can mean that an exercise is less efficient and less targeted.

By adding in a band to create resistance this will mean that the muscles have to work differently and can increase your own bodily awareness of how the exercise should feel.

The different colours of the bands represents the level of resistance offered e.g. blue = heavy, however these can vary between manufacturers. This does also mean that bands can be used for almost all levels of fitness - from those just starting their fitness journey to those recovering from injury to elite athletes.

Want to know how you could use resistance band exercises? Get in touch today.

NHS (2019) [Internet] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise