FAQs About Bodylastics Resistance Bands

Here are some frequently asked questions about resistance training and specifically resistance bands:

Are they really effective?
Resistance bands are currently being used by hospitals and rehab clinics across the country for one reason, they work! They create tension and stress on your muscle as your muscle is moving. This may not sound good, but it actually is! Your muscle will change in strength and shape by the principle of adaptation. This means that when you create new stresses on the muscle it will have to adapt to those stresses.

How do resistance bands compare to free weights?
Your muscle does not know whether you are lifting a free weight, a weight stack from a machine or stretching elastic bands. It only knows that it is working against resistance, not what type of resistance. Also, similar to some of the weight machines, resistance bands actually have an advantage. As you stretch them they become more difficult which means that you are placing more stress on the muscle at the right time.

Will I get too bulky from resistance training?
This question usually comes from women who are afraid to look like the bodybuilding women that they see in the media. To answer the question, no you will not get too bulky. In order for you to look like the huge bodybuilding women you would have to take male hormones, yes, steroids. Don't get me wrong, if you lift very heavy weights are work with very high resistance levels you can add some bulk to your frame. This can all be avoided though by keeping the resistance levels low and the repetitions high.

What should I look for in resistance bands, there are so many styles?
My recommendation is to find a resistance band system that gives you the most versatility. In other words you will want to be able to change the level of resistance and create the best exercises. Many of the new systems use a clip system so that you can add or subtract resistance in a snap. Some systems also come with a door anchor so that you can easily secure them to a door. This is crucial for some of the better exercises like seated back row and laying hamstrings curl.

Do they ever snap or break?
Some elastic products actually snap more often than others. The flat resistance bands snap much more often than the tubing. Remember that this is a product made of rubber. What happens to a rubberband when you stretch it too far - sure, it snaps. Try to follow the manufacturers recommendations for use and just be aware that if it feels like the elastic is going to snap during a certain exercise, it probably is.

How long will it take before I start to see results?
Listen, you've got to be patient. If you start looking for results within one to two weeks you are going to get discouraged and want to quit. You must at least give yourself three to four weeks (probably closer to four) before you start to see and feel real improvements.