There are times you can’t make it to the gym or you just feel the need to workout to destress. That’s when you need an at-home workout. You can use bodyweight exercises but if you want equipment, resistance bands or free weights can be purchased. Which is the best to buy? Is there a difference in the results? Which fits your lifestyle best? One advantage of resistance bands is they’re lightweight and easy to pack if you travel. The same isn’t true of free weights.
Your budget, experience, and needs can determine the choice you make.
Resistance bands are the most budget-friendly strength-building equipment. You can get a variety of resistance levels for around $10. While one set of dumbbells can cost about the same or slightly more, they’re just one weight, so as you get fitter, you have to purchase more weights. Some free weights require a spotter. Kettlebells require more extensive training. Free weights also use gravity as their resistance. Focusing on proper positioning and form is imperative. Resistance bands create tension by stretching. You can change the angle and direction and work muscles on the horizontal or vertical plane.
If you want bulk, free weights may be the best.
Resistance bands work great for building strength but they aren’t necessarily the best for building bulk. While resistance bands work well to achieve most people’s goals, it doesn’t work as well for bodybuilders who want to look their best for competition. It requires far more planning and modification of the moves to get the same progressive overload. It’s simply easier to do with free weights.
Free weights are still the gold standard for building muscle.
Both free weights and resistance bands build muscle tissue, but it’s quicker with free weights. Part of the reason is how people use resistance bands. You won’t get the most benefits from resistance bands if you don’t stretch them to the maximum capacity. When you lift weights, you get the resistance the minute you lift them and that resistance is consistent throughout the entire workout. Each movement using resistance bands can vary the resistance.
- If you’re only using home equipment occasionally and use the gym at other times, the best option may be resistance bands. They’re easy to store and don’t cost much. If you use them infrequently, they’re the best option.
- Some people may have a problem with resistance bands due to a latex allergy. There are non-latex versions. Like free weights, always check bands for nicks, wear, and tear to stay safe.
- Just like kettlebells, resistance bands can provide a full-body workout. You get strength and flexibility training, too.
- Resistance bands can provide an alternative to keep you interested in exercise. It’s easier to vary your workout at the gym, but it becomes more limited and difficult at home. Resistance bands help break the monotony if you’re only doing bodyweight workouts.
For more information, contact us today at Iron Fit San Antonio