New year, new you,
right? Even though it is February, it's never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle. iHealthSphere has
decided to highlight a great exercise technique that is often overlooked.
Widely used by physical therapists and professional athletes, resistance
training is a type of exercise that uses opposing force to strengthen and
stretch muscles.
Traditional resistance
training can include weights, but we suggest using resistance bands instead,
such as our TheraBand
resistance bands. Resistance bands or tubes offer more
variation and can help you target smaller muscles that you may not reach by
using hand weights or dumbbells. Because stretch bands or tubes have the
ability to create resistance in all directions, they are one of the best ways
to improve range of motion and coordination in stiff, overactive and even injured
muscles.
We’ve outlined the top
five reasons to start resistance training with stretch bands below:
1. Adaptable for Many Fitness Levels
Resistance
bands come in a variety of tension levels based on the thickness and strength
of the band, allowing the user to decide which resistance grade they want to
use. The thinner bands offer the least resistance, while the thicker bands tend
to be more difficult. Resistance bands can be used for training no matter what
your athletic ability. Many physical therapists even recommend using stretch
bands for rehabilitation after an injury or to improve joint rotation for those
suffering from a chronic condition like arthritis.
Because
muscles are able to adapt to a continuous routine, using resistance bands can
help add variety to your workout. From leg extensions to squats and bicep
curls, resistance bands can be used to engage virtually every muscle in your
body depending on the workout. Switching up the exercises daily or weekly is a
great way to challenge and strengthen your muscles.
3. Enhance Balance & Coordination
Using
resistance bands often helps improve balance, coordination and stamina because
multiple muscle groups are engaged at a time. This helps to strengthen key
stabilisers, improving overall balance.
4. Can Be Used Anywhere
A
convenient benefit of resistance bands are that they can be used anywhere at
any time. For instance, if you work in an office and you are sitting for long
periods of time, take one to work with you and do some stretches during the
day. If you are going on vacation, these bands are lightweight and can be
packed in luggage easily for morning workouts. Resistance tubes or bands can
also be combined with other equipment or routines to add more dynamics to your
workout. Anyone can use resistance bands to improve range of motion and muscle
strength.
5. Bands Are Cost-Effective
Exercise equipment can be
extremely costly and require routine maintenance. However, resistance bands are
very affordable and last a long time. Our TheraBand resistance tubing and bands
can be purchased in different lengths with various prices based on thickness.
No matter what your budget, these bands are a cost-effective way to improve
your health and strength in the New Year