If you’ve never exercised before or are looking into getting back to exercise, it’s normal to feel unsure where to begin. You don’t need experience or special equipment to get started. Resistance bands are elastic bands that can help maintain and build muscle and improve mobility and balance. They are budget-friendly and can be easily found in local sports shops or online. They’re usually priced under $20 for a few bands with different weight resistance. They are very lightweight and portable, easy to use at home, and can be done sitting or standing!
Here are several common resistance band exercise videos. Bookmark them all and add them to your calendar!
For Your Back: Band Pull Aparts
For Your Back: Lat Pull Down
For Your Chest: Chest Press
For Your Shoulders: Shoulder Extension
For Your Shoulders: Lateral Raise
For Your Arms: Bicep Curls
For Your Arms: Seated Tricep Extension
How much is Enough in the beginning?
In the beginning, less is more, especially if this is a new exercise for you. You do not need to do every exercise listed to get started.
💪This week, try this: one resistance-band exercise for 1 set of 8–12 repetitions, for 2 days. 💪
If you’re new to exercise and aren’t sure what “sets” and “repetitions” mean, our article, ‘What Are Sets and Reps?’ walks you through these concepts step by step. If you’re already familiar with sets and reps, ‘4 Simple Ways to Progress Your Exercises' is another great read that offers guidance on safely increasing resistance at your own pace.
