Rubber Bands and Tubing

Rubber bands and tubing can provide resistance training at a fraction of the cost of a home gym. They are also lightweight and easy to store. Exercises are performed similar to free weights. There are several drawbacks to this type of strength workout. It is more difficult to increase resistance in small, measurable increments�you must switch to a different thickness (which may be too hard), or you must change your lifting position to make the band or tubing more taut at the start of the movement. The pattern of resistance generation is also opposite of the way that the body generates force. Elastic resistance generates the greatest amount of resistance at the end of the movement when it is stretched to its fullest. The body normally generates the most force at the start of the movement. Nonetheless, strength gains can be achieved by this method.

Types: The two most common types are ribbon-like rubbers bands about 6" wide and rubber tubing of various thicknesses. Different colors represents different levels of resistance. Some tubing, like the Sport Cord, also has built in plastic handles or stirrups for the feet, so a greater variety of exercises can be performed.

Price Range: $10 to $60

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