Learning how to use resistance bands is something that many people are interested in doing. Resistance tubes and bands are lightweight and very easy to store. They are easily taken when you travel to help you workout no matter where you are.

How do resistance bands work?
Exercise bands and tubes are made out of elastic. As you stretch out the bands, you will be met with more resistance the farther you stretch them. This resistance allows you to safely tone your muscles. Because the resistance can be applied in any direction whether up or down, you do not need to rely on gravity like with free weights.

An example of how this principle works can seen with a rubber band. Take the rubber band with both hands. If you keep one hand stationary while the other pulls away you will feel the resistance being applied. Try moving your hand away to the side, diagonal, up, down, or any other direction and you will still feel resistance. As your hands move farther apart, your muscles have to work harder to maintain their distance. This is how the resistance tubing and bands work, only on a larger scale.

Who can use resistance bands and tubes?
Resistance tubes and bands can be used by any age group from kindergarten to a senior citizen it really does not matter. Exercise bands and tubes are also great for any type of lifestyle whether you are heavily involved in sports or retired and want to get into shape. The exercise bands are easy on the joints and allow for a smoother movement.

Are resistance tubes and bands safe?
Resistance tubes and bands are safe to use. There are a couple things to consider with resistance tubes. First, each color means a certain resistance level. Because of this you do not want to buy a resistance band or tube solely based on the color. You must shop by resistance level rather than the color. Second, as you are working out keep in mind that the resistance bands and tubes act as a rubber band, meaning they want to snap back into their original form. Never let go of a resistance band or tube while it is stretched as this could cause injury.

How do I use resistance bands?
Resistance tubes and bands can be used the same way you use weights. Because there must be resistance for the bands to work, you must step on or attach one end to a stationary object. For example, to do curls you simply step on one end of the exercise band and hold the other end in your hand making sure there is no slack in the tube when your arm is relaxed. As you slowly curl your arm upwards, you will feel the resistance causing your muscles to work harder.

You can apply the same principle to just about any exercise. Resistance bands are truly the universal exercise equipment and a must have for everyone.