Buzz
This month’s fitness challenge highlights a must-have for both travel and home exercise routines: the highly adaptable resistance band.
You’ve likely come across these before: they’re elastic strips or tubes that provide resistance when stretched. The thicker the band, the more effort it takes to stretch it. (Most brands use color-coding to indicate resistance levels, though there’s no standard system for what each color represents.)
Each week, we’ll feature exercises compatible with any type of resistance band. If you’re new to this, here’s a breakdown of the common shapes and sizes you’ll find:
Thin, flat rubber sheets. These can be held, stepped on, or tied to an object for use.
Thin, flat rubber loops resembling an infinity scarf. These can be wrapped around your hand, foot, or an object, or held like the sheet type.
Thick, rope-like loops. Ideal for exercises like pull-ups, these can be looped around a bar with your foot placed in the dangling end.
Rope-like bands featuring handles or clips. Connect the clips to form a loop or use the handles for a secure grip.
Over time, all resistance bands can deteriorate, so inspect your older ones for signs of cracking or wear. (Trust me, snapping mid-workout is no fun at all.)
Next week, we’ll share specific exercises to try. For now, familiarize yourself with your bands. Explore this exercise chart for inspiration, or search for your favorite workout with the term “resistance bands”—most dumbbell or cable exercises can be adapted for bands. Enjoy your workout experiments!
