With the different variations of resistance bands available it’s difficult to know which ones to buy. Allow me to clear the confusion. The best resistance bands to purchase are flat in construction. Let me explain why. Flat Bands (Flexbands is one example) adhere to whatever they are attached to because they conform to the any attachment surface. Tubular bands on the other hand will not adhere to other surfaces as well and have a tendency to roll on the surface they come in contact with.
The flat design of Flexbands makes them more comfortable for certain resistance band exercises like push-ups, squats, and curls. They are much easier on the hands when keeping the bands pushed under your feet, when doing neck exercises, and leg stretches. Because they are flat and not round in design, the band stays fixed rather than rolling off, allowing you to perform exercises with better form.
Also because tubular resistance bands had a tendency for snapping many manufacturer’s now cover their tubular bands with a nylon covering. This covering creates an abrupt stopping point as the band is stretched. In turn this can create a jerking action if you go beyond the bands maximum stretch length. This jerking can lead to low back and shoulder injuries. FlexBands do not have an end point so there is less risk of injury when using them for resistance band training.
Another point worth noting with resistance band design is that tubular bands have a hollow core which decrease their strength to tension ratio as compared to a solid thick flat resistance band.
How long will resistance bands last me?
FlexBands which are the resistance band of choice for many personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts, are 41 inches long and can be stretched eight times their length. The bottom line is that resistance bands are more durable than tubing and Flexbands are the toughest band on the market. You will see significant strength gains with Flex bands and not have to be constantly replacing them.
What strength levels do resistance bands come in?
Like most flat resistance bands, FlexBands come in 6 different resistance levels, which include Mini Bands (15-35lbs), Monster Mini Bands (35-50lbs), Light Bands (50-75lbs), Average Bands (75-120lbs), Strong Bands (120-200lbs), Monster Bands (200-300lbs). If you find an exercise to be too difficult, all you need to do is link 2 bands together and you change the minimum resistance of the exercise for an easier workout. That is why resistance bands can accommodate for any fitness level.
There is a common misconception that resistance bands are only good for rehab. This is false! While Flex Bands are a popular tool for injury rehabilitation, they are also very effective for flexibility workouts and strength training for the purpose of losing fat and building muscle.
So now you know which resistance bands to purchase, do want to know how to train more effectively with resistance bands? Get the fat loss workout bands program
to discover advanced resistance band workouts to burn fat in less time.
