Not sure how to interpret the different opinions on resistance bands : is it really as effective as free weights for progress? Without suspense, the answer is yes! Resistance bands offer the same benefits as machines, and even a few extra benefits!
In this article, we'll see how to build muscle with resistance bands, our tips for setting up a progressive overload and our model belts specially designed to offer the best French quality-price ratio!
Reviews of resistance bands regarding the benefits
More range of motion
Unlike free weights, elastic bands do not rely on gravity to provide resistance. This increases their potential for use in more functional movement patterns that mimic everyday life, as well as sport-specific activities. Because free weights rely on gravity, they can only provide resistance in a vertical plane (the direction of gravity).
So if you're doing a free weight exercise in the horizontal plane, like moving your hand from the left side of your body to the right side while holding a dumbbell, there is no resistance. This is not the case with rubber bands! You can perform exercises with a better range of motion.
Because elastic resistance is not dependent on gravity, it is also possible to redirect the emphasis on working the muscles in the middle of a set by changing the line of pull of the bands. This ability to shift emphasis is important for those looking to target specific muscles (either for aesthetic reasons or athletic requirements).
This is also important for injured persons, as the transfer of force to certain muscles can help protect certain joints.
Constant voltage
According to the opinions on elastic in bodybuilding, another advantage is that of continuous tension on the trained muscles. When you lift a free weight in any direction other than up and down, the tension on the muscle varies and can actually be removed in some places.
Again, this comes down to the difference between needing and not needing gravity for resistance. For example, on a dumbbell curl, as you curl the weight all the way in, the dumbbell drops toward your shoulder. Tension is removed at the top, as the dumbbell is no longer lifted against gravity by the biceps.
When doing bicep curls with elastic resistance, tension is present throughout the range of motion because the resistance comes from the elastic properties of the band, not from the weight of the dumbbell!
Linear variable resistor
Perhaps the most definable feature of Rubber Training is the Linear Variable Resistance, which means that as the range of motion increases, the resistance also increases.
For example, when you do a bicep curl with a resistance band and wrap your hand towards your shoulder, the resistance gradually increases. This is due to the physical properties of the elastic material: the more the bracelet is stretched, the more resistance it offers.
A benefit of this elasticity is that as the range of motion (and therefore resistance) increases, the number of fibers it recruits to the muscle also increases The more muscle fibres used, the greater the adaptations in muscle strength . That's an advantage free weights can't offer!
Linear variable resistance also mimics the muscle force curve better than free weights. Many people report that they can feel a difference with the elastic resistance, such as a stronger burn in the muscles and greater muscle fatigue.
Impossible to cheat
According to the reviews of the bodybuilding elastic, another essential advantage of the elastic resistance is that it prevents the athlete from cheating on the exercise, a common practice with free weights, especially among beginners.
The cheat involves using momentumto move the weight. Once this momentum is created, the muscle fibersno longer need to be fully activated to continue moving the weight through the rest of the range of motion. In other words, the momentum is doing most of the work at this point, not the muscles!
The physical properties of elastic resistance devices simply don't allow you to cheat using momentum. The only way to continue a movement while performing a Body Resistance Exercise is to use more muscle fibers to keep stretching the band.
Our opinion on resistance bands to build muscle
As effective as free weights
Are resistance bands good for muscle building like free weights and machines? Admittedly, free loads offer easier progressive overload because you're dealing with simple resistance levels like dumbbells and plates.
But if you're a beginner, resistance bands are definitely a good option to build muscle. It's just as good, if not even better. It will have low risk and high reward, unlike free weights, which are more risky for beginners. If you're an advanced level of fitness, you just need to be creativewith your progressive overload to keep building muscle.
Many advanced lifters end up replacing free weights with resistance bands, as it is much less taxing on their spine and joints, and they can still see good results.
For resistance band exercises, start with the band tight, then move through your range of motion. If you go lax, you will have no tension in the lower range of motion and therefore less muscle gains.
Tips for implementing progressive overload
When you start training, just about any exercise you do will be an effective overload, because your muscles simply aren't used to doing anything other than your normal daily walking routine , sitting, standing, etc.
To increase the stress you put on them, there are several methods to implement a progressive overload with elastic of resistance:
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Increased time under tension: this simply means that your reps are longer. You can also do this by changing your tempo, i.e. going slower.
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Increasing training volume: You can do this by adding more sets to your training and/or more exercises.
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Decreased rest time: less rest time equals more stress on your muscles.
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Increase your training frequency: If you train 3 times a week, increase to 4 times!
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Increasing Resistance: Using a band with a higher level of resistance is an obvious method. It will still work if you listen to your body and assess the difficulty of the previous weeks.
Follow the opinions on resistance bands to find the right model
At Fitness Super-Humain, we have gathered more than 50 opinions on our weight lifting bands, all positive. Our Resistance Resistance Bands™ are the best value for money on the market today. We provide 1 year warranty to prove the quality of our product.
These elastics are unique, simple and economical: perfect for athletes who want to develop their muscles in the house or apartment. Our handles are strong and comfortableto guarantee you optimal support in complete safety.
Our professional-grade hanging system features a door anchor so you can turn any room into a custom gym. Our kit consists of 5 elastic resistance bands made with natural latex material.
The resistance is adjustable from 5 to 75 kg to support you in your sporting progress. You will be able to lose weight or gain muscle quickly, without leaving your home!
In summary: Opinions on weight training elastics
Yes, resistance bands are effective for building muscle mass, becoming stronger and more enduring! These accessories provide similar or even better results than free weights.
The benefits are multiple: better range of motion, constant muscle tension, linear variable resistance and no cheating!
You can even set up a progressive overload for your workouts, just like with regular machines. If you're looking to take it to the next level and put your bodyweight workouts aside, check out our Resistance Resistance Bands™ to progress quickly !
We hope this article about our review on weight bands has helped you.
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