There are many different types of resistance bands on the market with varying resistance levels, different quality, and therefore different prices. In this article we'll talk about various types of resistance bands, what each is for, and which type is the most versatile. We'll also cover price differences and how to judge the quality of the bands you want to buy.
Here are 5 different types of bands and their benefits :-
Let's discuss the different types of resistance bands, their uses, which type is the most versatile, our personal favorite, and also the price differences.
1. Resistance and Strength Bands
Resistance and strength bands are basically giant rubber loops. They’re flat, circular loops you can use for many purposes. You can use loop bands to help your body do harder exercises. You can do a full body workout with them and resistance training too. They’re also used in physical therapy for people with leg, knee, back injuries, and so on.
Overall, they're super versatile, letting you work through all three movement planes. You can use them whether you’re focusing on general fitness or bodybuilding.
Benefits:-
- Muscle growth
- Muscle endurance
- Muscle strength
- Balance and coordination
- Fat burning
- Flexibility
- Better movement ability
- Rehabilitation
2. Handheld resistance bands
This band is designed with a handle on one end and a lock on the other, making it easy to control and attach to anything. Then you hold it from the other side. It works well especially for chest, back, shoulders, and some other exercises that rely on pushing and pulling. These bands can target all body muscles, so they are important and useful for people who don't prefer gyms or like working out outdoors.
Benefits:
- Muscle strengthening
- Cell size growth
- Muscle endurance
- Improved range of motion
- Fat burning
- Rehabilitation
- Does not affect the joints
3. Small resistance bands
Small resistance bands are like regular resistance bands but smaller and non-slip. That’s why they’re preferred most of the time. You can use them to build strength and stability in both lower and upper body with certain exercises. By placing them over your knees or ankles, you get great hip muscle moves. They’re also good during weight training. They help activate your core and keep your form strong and attractive.
Benefits:
- Warm-up
- Flexibility
- Muscle activation
- Maintaining the correct form
- Muscle strength and endurance
- No impact on joints
- Rehabilitation
4. Light resistance bands
These bands are very long, up to 3.5 meters, very thin and flexible but you can tie their ends to make a loop. They are designed for therapeutic use for people regaining strength after injury and for older adults who want low-intensity training. They are also effective when combined with fat-burning exercises, as you only need a little extra resistance for a good burn.
Benefits:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Weight loss
- Muscle flexibility
- Muscle strengthening (for beginners or people with weak muscles)
5. Figure 8 bands
They get their name literally from their shape and have two handles. They can stretch a lot depending on how much you need to exercise. They target your upper and lower body and can be used in different workout styles.
Benefits:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Weight loss
- Muscle stretching
- Muscle strengthening
- Muscular endurance
- Stability through single-leg movements.
