How to Work Out with the Resistance Band

Taking a break from weights training to focus on other parts of your body is a good way to get a well-rounded fitness regime. Just as you don't need to perform every exercise routine there is to get in shape, you can also take a break from other exercise equipment to see what more innovative tools can do for your body. An exercise/resistance band is a good example of a work out equipment that offers great possibilities. Many also agree that this portable exercise tool offers many great advantages over weights and other fancy exercise machines as it improves both strength and balance.

With a resistance band, you work in a full range of motion, which means you get to target muscles you likely miss with weights and other machines. The following are good moves and work out routines to perform with a resistance band:

• Lunges and bicep curls – Here, you place the center of the exercise band under the instep of the foot of your choice and position the other foot some 2 feet behind you. With an underhand grip on the handles, do some bicep curls and bend your knees into a lunge position. 20 repetitions on each leg at thrice a week frequency will do wonders for your leg and arm muscles.
  
• Pliés – Stand with your feet apart (wider than shoulder-width), put your toes out and wrap the band around your back at mid-rib level. Extend your arms to the sides in a slightly curved position while holding it just near the handles. Bring your fingertips together and bend your knees until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Open your arms as you return to your starting position. Repeat 20 times.
  
• Squats and overhead presses – Stand in the middle of the band, feet shoulder width apart. Hold the handles at shoulder height with your palms facing away and your elbows bent. Squat deeply as you press your arms directly overhead and keep your weight on your heels. Resist the pull of the band as you return to a standing position. Repeat 20 times.