Key takeaways
- Before starting any form of exercise, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional about additional steps to take to ensure safety while exercising.
- Resistance bands are versatile tools for exercising, stretching, and other strength training exercises. This type of training offers a low impact but high benefit movement that can help strengthen muscle groups and grip.
- GoFit’s ProGym Extreme set offers the best value, as it comes with a kit and includes a manual that shows various exercises to perform with resistance bands.
As people age and muscle mass decreases, it becomes more challenging to perform daily activities like walking and climbing stairs. In fact, 35% of adults over the age of 70 have challenges with balance and walking.
Tools like resistance bands can help
This article serves as a guide for finding resistance bands that fit different individuals’ needs, as well as other points to consider when purchasing resistance bands for seniors.
| Price | Material | Number of bands | Resistance levels | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eilison Resistance Band Kit | $45.99 | latex tube, nylon cover | 6 | lb: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 |
| GoFit ProGym Extreme | $69.99 | latex | 4 | lb: 20, 30, 40, 50 |
| Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Bands | $9.98 | natural latex | 5 | x-light, light, medium, heavy, x-heavy |
| Lianjindun Latex-Free Workout Bands | $11.99 | TPE | 5 | lb: 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 |
Resistance bands work with your body weight to create tension, which is measured by the pounds of force it takes to stretch the band to its capacity. Resistance levels, measured in pounds of force, mean that it requires that amount of force to extend the band to its maximum stretch.
If you have a band with a resistance level of 25 to 50 pounds, you need to exert 50 pounds of force to stretch it out to maximum. The closer or looser the band is to its original shape, the less force is exerted.
The thicker the bands or the higher the weight levels, the more force you exert to “lift” or stretch your resistance band.
Resistance bands have a similar effect to training with conventional exercise machines, but they are a more affordable option and relatively easier to use.
Various kinds of resistance bands are available, but here are some points to consider when searching:
- Weight resistance: The weight of resistance, material, and the number of bands offered can vary depending on experience level. Consider the range of motion and the group of muscles being exercised.
- Affordability: Consider budget restrictions and the level of quality when looking at resistance bands.
- Band style: Various types of resistance bands are available, from loops and tubes to strings of bands. Think about the different exercises and see which allows full movement.
- Material: Among latex, rubber, and other elastic materials, some materials may be more durable than others. Also, consider any allergies or intolerances to ensure your safety.
- Safety: Before starting any exercise, always check for holes, signs of wear and tear, or lines that look problematic. Additionally, reach out to a professional.
If resistance training is a new concept, make sure to talk with a trained professional or healthcare professional to discuss current capabilities and goals. It’s important to have a knowledgeable guide who may help modify exercises to suit personal levels.
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Benefits of using resistance bands
- resistance training can be as effective as free weights
- resistance bands are generally more affordable than free weights or gym memberships
- because they are easy to pack, resistance bands are a versatile exercise tool
What to consider with resistance bands
- though the risk is lower, resistance bands may snap and cause injury
- some resistance bands are in loops or open, which may make it more difficult to get a good grip
- while progressing in resistance band training, more bands will be necessary to use
Resistance bands are an affordable, convenient, and versatile way to add strength training to your routine. You can use these bands for a variety of exercises to help retain muscle mass. Various types of bands can help with different exercises, and the resistance weight varies from 5 lb per band to over 100 lb.
If you have a chronic condition or have recently sustained an injury, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to check whether you can use resistance bands alone or need a trained professional to help you get started.
No Medicare plan covers the cost of resistance bands.
However, some Medigap plans and Part C may help cover the cost of gym memberships or a membership with SilverSneakers.
Check your evidence of coverage document, or call your Medicare customer service to discuss what your plan may or may not cover.
The best resistance bands for seniors vary depending on their strength, range of motion, type of exercises they want to perform, and budget. Before deciding on a resistance band, also consider any chronic conditions, injuries, or other physical limitations.
Since grip is an important factor in resistance band training, having a resistance band with a handle may be beneficial for a beginner.
Resistance weight, accessories, and type of material are other qualities to consider when buying a resistance band.
Strength training in general is a great way for older adults to increase mobility, strengthen muscles, and improve balance.
Exercises done with free weights can also be performed with resistance bands. Exercises like bicep curls, chest presses, and lateral raises are good starting exercises to get comfortable with using resistance bands.