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•Centr Team
How to use resistance bands in your workout
When you have a resistance band, you have everything you need to start your fitness journey or take it to the next level.
But which band is right for your workouts? And how do you use a band effectively? Let’s get you into the loop.
What are resistance bands?
A resistance band, sometimes called an exercise band or fitness band, is a piece of equipment made from flexible and stretchy rubber or latex.
Why do people use resistance bands?
This lightweight, versatile piece of equipment provides tension that your muscles have to work to resist. That means a band can be used to add intensity to bodyweight exercises or mimic strength training equipment such as dumbbells or cables.
Not sure which kind of band is right for you? Let’s explore how to use different types of resistance bands.
Tube bands
Also called a tube resistance band with handles
Use a tube band to get your heart and muscles pumping.
Tube bands with handles are perfect for pull and push exercises, such as rows and chest presses. Centr tube bands, which you can find in the Centr Workout Kit, also include ankle attachments, so you can perform lower-body exercises like glute kickbacks. But because these bands provide a big range of motion, they’re super versatile.
You’ll usually find this type of band used in strength training or HIRT workouts, often as a cable machine replacement or dumbbell substitute.
Tube band safety tips: Always grip the handles tightly and secure ankle attachments firmly, as a snapping band could hit you or your prized possessions. When looping the band under your feet, make sure it’s secure and your feet aren’t going to slip – it may help to wear sneakers.
Fabric bands
Sometimes called a fabric loop band, booty band, fabric resistance band, fit loop band or mini band
Get down like Maricris and use a fabric band to add extra booty burn to your squats.
Fabric bands may have a small range of motion, but they pack a high level of resistance! When looped around your thighs or arms, they offer enormous targeted toning potential. You’ll often find fabric bands used in lower-body workouts, where they help to activate and target the glutes. The burn is real! They come in handy for yoga and Pilates classes, too.
If you have Centr fabric loop bands, you’ll find a whole host of workouts from our experts ready and waiting to bring the burn.
Fabric band safety tips: Make sure you go for good quality bands and opt for fabric over rubber bands as they’re less likely to roll up or snap.
Long loop band
Sometimes called a power band, resistance training band or pull-up band
A long loop band like Bobby’s is essential for your Centr Power at Home workouts.
This long, looped band (it’s a circle with no ends) is a muscle-building go-to, allowing you to perform push and pull exercises that are traditionally performed using weights or on machines. That’s exactly why this band style plays a significant role in Centr Power at Home. Before you jump into a workout with a loop band, safety is key. More on that below.
Long looped band safety tips: Loop bands will usually require an anchor point – this could be something solid already in your home (e.g. supporting pole or beam, squat rack) or an anchor system you install. Ensure your anchor point is fixed and sturdy, as flying furniture can cause injury. And a reminder not to suddenly release the band, as rubber moving at high velocity can also cause harm.
3 essential tips for using your resistance bands
Follow these tips to get the most out of your bands.
When using a band, it should be tight enough that there is no slack (it’s not flopping around), while still allowing you to perform the exercise through a full range of motion.
As your body adapts and grows stronger, you will need to increase the resistance you’re training with. That means you’ll likely need to invest in heavier/stronger bands to keep challenging your muscles. Bands are often color-coded, with darker colors indicating heavier resistance. If you’re using Centr bands, charcoal represents the heaviest resistance, forest green is medium and beige is the lightest.
If the bands rub on your skin, a pair of training gloves can help you grip without irritation.
Want more advice on working out at home?
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