Which resistance bands are best?
Sometimes, you can’t make it to the gym for a workout, or you don’t have the physical space at home for a weight machine. Resistance bands are a great way to have a workout wherever you are by providing different levels of resistance for your muscles.
Many people find that resistance bands offer an excellent workout and can even be combined with traditional weights to provide variety and target different muscle groups.
What to know before you buy a resistance band
Types of resistance bands
There are seven types of resistance bands.
- Fit-tube resistance bands are excellent for most exercises and impact both upper and lower body muscle groups. There are a wide range of resistance levels for this type.
- Clip-tube resistance bands have a metal or plastic clip that allows different handles to be used. These resistance bands offer a lot of versatility for different types of exercises.
- Figure-eight resistance bands are also known as bow-tie resistance bands. They are excellent for the upper body and have handles in the middle and on both loops.
- Ring-resistance bands are used on the lower body and are typically 1 foot long with handles on both ends.
- Lateral bands are also used on the lower body and have an ankle cuff on both ends.
- Pullup resistance bands are best used in a gym and are intended for pullups using your body weight.
- Flat resistance bands are typically used for rehabilitation exercises and come in subtypes of therapy bands and fit loop bands.
Tension
Light-tension resistance bands offer about three pounds of resistance and are best for people going through rehabilitation. Medium-tension bands offer 6 to 13 pounds of resistance and are a good fit for people with some level of fitness. Heavy-tension bands typically offer between 14 to 19 pounds of resistance, which is more than it might seem, and are intended for more seasoned exercisers. Very heavy resistance bands are around 23 pounds, and they are intended for the most experienced weightlifters and fitness buffs.
Solo resistance band vs a set
It is recommended to start with a set of resistance bands to experiment and determine which resistance level is best for you. You may eventually find the best resistance level for your workout goals.
What to look for in a quality resistance band
Door or wall mount
Both door and wall mounts provide a foundation upon which to attach the resistance bands. Door mounts need to be used with a securely closed door (preferably locked) to prevent injuries. Wall mounts have the resistance bands permanently attached for specific exercises.
Handles
There are many varieties of handles in regard to shape, size and texture. Look for models with softer handles that allow for more exercises to be performed.
Carrying bag
Many resistance bands come with a storage bag. Even if they don’t, a simple drawstring bag should be able to transport your bands.
How much you can expect to spend on a resistance band
Resistance bands start at around $25 for basic sets with a carrying bag. With more bands and accessories, the price is between $50-$75, while high-intensity, full-workout sets can cost over $100.
Resistance band FAQ
What do the band colors represent?
A. Each band color identifies a specific level of resistance so that you can work on different routines or target certain muscle groups. Each manufacturer uses a different color chart but will have the specifications clearly marked with the instructions, and sometimes even printed on the bands themselves.
Are resistance bands more effective than weights?
A. The research is limited, but most experts agree that resistance bands provide a benefit similar to that of weights. It comes down to what the user prefers in terms of portability, the types of exercises to be performed, and which muscle groups are being focused on. You may want to consider combining both resistance bands and weights if you have access to both.
Will resistance bands break easily?
A. Most resistance bands are made from extra-strong rubber nylon and many have lifetime warranties. Still, over time and with heavy use, resistance bands will wear down, so you should look for signs of breaking down. Most injuries using resistance bands come from misusing the bands, not band breakage.
What’s the best resistance band to buy?
Top resistance band
What you need to know: Available in five different resistance levels, these bands are great for a wide variety of workouts.
What you’ll love: These snap-resistant bands are made from 100 percent rubber latex. They come in two sizes and provide resistance from 5 to 50 pounds.
What you should consider: They roll up sometimes during use.
Top resistance band for the money
What you need to know: This 14-piece set has everything you need for a convenient workout at home or on the road, including a helpful e-book download.
What you’ll love: Durable color-coded bands made from polymer and nylon come with cushioned handles, ankle straps, a door anchor and a waterproof carrying bag. The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty.
What you should consider: There is some concern that the carrying bag is not spacious enough for everything that comes with the set.
Worth checking out
Sports Research Mini Loop Resistance Bands
What you need to know: This affordable set of five different bands offers excellent resistance for your workouts.
What you’ll love: The bands are designed to prevent slippage during workouts and come in nontraditional pastel colors. A washable carrying case provides easy transport. A workout guide and lifetime warranty are also included.
What you should consider: The highest intensity bands may not provide enough resistance for more serious exercisers.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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