Study after study has proven the benefits of adding resistance training to any fitness program, and a weight loss program is no exception. If you are trying to lose weight, something as simple as adding a few basic resistance exercises after your cardio routine can help you to see faster results, and add more shape to your body, helping you to reach for that lean sexy look and feel that most everyone wants.
Resistance bands offer a full range of motion, and the resistance of each band can be adjusted by simply stepping on the band in a different place to shorten the band, or by coiling the band for the same affect. Most exercises that you can do with weights can be duplicated with resistance bands, but weights cannot be tossed into your luggage or stowed away in a dresser drawer when not being used.
You can carry resistance bands in your car and do arm curls while waiting for the kids to get out of school, take them on your business or camping trip to make sure you don’t miss your workout, and yes, you can even use them at home!
Anchor a hook of some sort on the wall for your bands and you can perform rowing movements or add resistance to your AB routine. Secure them to a spot above your head for lat pulls or pullup movements, or step on the band in various resistance positions to complete arm curls, tricep exercises, overhead presses, side lats, upright rows, and much more. You can even add resistance to squats and calf raises! You are limited only by your abilities and your imagination.
There is a definite difference in quality between some brands of bands. I have used bands from my local discount store, and bands from a quality manufacturer, and the difference is amazing. I feel more safe, and better about my workouts when using B-Line Bands.
Quality resistance bands like the B-Line bands come in a range of resistances of 5 to 50 pounds and can be purchased in sets or individually. A full set of these bands that can be used by multiple people at once, depending resistance needs, can be purchased for less than a few pair of dumbbells, or around $120.00.
You can also find these bands sold in smaller sets, combining the most popular bands into different levels of resistance. You might select a set that is more popular with the ladies, a set that is more popular with the men, or an extreme set that contains the heavier bands for about $40.00.
Some of these bands can be found individually for less than $20.00, for when you need to supplement a set you already have, or don’t anticipate the need for additional resistances. I strongly recommend buying a set, just because of the cost savings per band.
If you are not using resistance training as a part of your fitness or weight loss routine, consider adding this to your program, and if you are currently using resistance bands that you are not happy with, look into upgrading to a better quality band like the B-Line bands.
As always, make sure you check with your doctor before beginning any fitness or weight loss program. Your health is important to everyone around you, take care of yourself and make a difference for everyone.