Without access to my gym's wall of dumbbells, rack of barbells, or machinery, it's been a little difficult to continue my strength-training routine [1] — the Instagram 10 push-up challenge is just not for me.
Then, I remembered the Letsfit Resistance Loop Bands [2] ($13) I had stashed in my coffee-table drawer. I bought the resistance bands set a few months back, particularly for the days when I just couldn't get to the gym. Now that my gym is closed and I'm practicing social distancing, they're coming in handy.
On top of being compact (ideal for a small apartment), resistance bands can be used to make certain exercises a little more difficult, and they're amazing for targeting the glutes.
According to Harvard Health Publishing [3], resistance bands offer a wide range of controlled resistance and allow you to keep resistance in the up-and-down motions of certain exercises, like dumbbell curls. The Arthritis Foundation [4] also lists bands as one of the best exercise tools for those suffering from arthritis.
This particular set includes five different 100 percent latex loop bands at varying resistance levels — x-light, light, medium, heavy and x-heavy — which come in a black mesh bag.
The brand notes that they can be used for anything from stretching and recovery to Pilates and strength training. I have been using the bands to boost my squats and hip raises, to up the intensity of squat jacks and planks, and during Pilates workouts. I plan on trying this arm series workout [5] using the band, as well as adding this 15-minute routine [6] into my schedule, too.
Of course, my favorite part about the set is the price tag — at only $13, it's a purchase I won't regret when I'm able to visit my gym once again.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news [7].
