Why You Should Include Mini Bands in Your Next Workout
They're small but mighty.
At first glance, you might think mini resistance bands are not that big of a deal. But start incorporating them into your workout, and you’ll find that those little colorful bands will kick your butt – in the best way possible.
Thanks to their versatility, they’re a great go-to for a quick and effective workout. Not only do they pack and travel lightly – you can use them in your living room, gym, or hotel room – but they’re also easy to incorporate into a slew of different exercises targeting everything from your arms to legs to glutes.
Here’s why you need to include mini bands as part of your regular exercise routine.
They Adapt Easily for All Fitness Levels
Mini bands come in a number of resistance levels, usually light, medium, or heavy, which means they’re perfect to use in your workouts whether you’re a gym newbie or gym rat. You can further amp the resistance by giving more or less tension on the band.
They Provide Less Tension on Muscles and Joints
One of the benefits of using mini bands is that you can make your workouts progressively harder and improve your strength while also protecting your joints and muscles. For example, if you’re looking to progress your bodyweight squat, but you’re not ready for a heavy barbell, using a mini band can help add the right amount of resistance without the tension and strain of a heavier weight.
They Can Add Variety to Workouts
If you’re dedicated to your training routine but are looking to spice things up a little, a mini band could be just the tool you’re looking for. Using a mini band will change the way you perform a tried-and-true exercise. For example, you can use a mini band around your arms while completing a push-up. Doing so will challenge your body, and help you to attain those much-desired fitness #gains.
If you’re convinced you need to include mini bands into your workout (and you really should), here are a few of our favorites.
Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands with Instruction Guide, $10.95
GYMBANDIT – Set of 5 Premium-Quality Resistance Bands with Bag, $18.99
Try These Exercises
Now that you’ve got your mini bands, here are some exercises to tackle to help get you started. Repeat each exercise 12 times for three to five rounds. Be prepared to sweat!
Glute Bridge. Lying on your back with your knees bent at 90 degrees, position the band just above your knees. Keeping your arms flat on the floor, raise your hips and engage your glutes. Then lower hips without touching the floor.
Push-Up. Place the band around both arms just above the wrists. Then in push-up position, whether on your knees or in plank position, lower your chest to the ground and push-up.
Plank Jacks. With the mini band around your ankles, begin in plank position. Holding that position (ensuring your hips are even and butt is low) jump your feet in and out.
The Takeaway
Don’t let their small size fool you. By helping to strengthen and tone your body, as well as being easily affordable and compact, mini bands are an awesomely challenging addition to your exercise routine.
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