A resistance band is an exercise aid that provides resistance as you stretch it. The bands, color-coded based on the number of pounds of resistance they provide, can be used for a variety of exercises for which free weights may be too heavy or unwieldy. They're often used by people rehabilitating an injury or who are unable to lift much weight.
Yellow
The yellow resistance band is the lightest and thinnest resistance band available. According to Thera-band.com, a yellow Thera-band resistance band requires only 3 lbs. of force to stretch a 1-foot section to 2 feet long. This band is ideal for those with injuries, and for exercises working the smallest muscle groups or requiring many repetitions.
Red
The red resistance band is the second-thinnest after the yellow. According to Thera-band.com, a red Thera-band resistance band requires 4 lbs. of force to stretch a 1-foot section to 2 feet long. This band can be used to perform rehab and small muscle group exercises once the yellow band has become too easy.
Green
The green resistance band is labeled "heavy," though it's only slightly thicker than the red band. Five lbs. of force are required to stretch a 1-foot band to a length of 2 feet, according to Thera-band.com. This band is for more intermediate to advanced users, and is an ideal starting point for two-handed exercises involving larger muscles such as the wood chop and the chest press.
Blue
The blue resistance band is a significant step up from the green band. It requires 7lbs. of force to stretch a 1-foot Thera-band to a length of 2 feet, according to Thera-band.com. These bands are for advanced users and compound movements using large muscles such as the chest, back and legs.
Black
The black resistance band is the next level after blue, requiring 9.5 lbs. of force to stretch a 1-foot Thera-band to a length of 2 feet, according to Thera-band.com. Black bands are well-suited to compound movements such as squats, lunges and deadlifts.
Silver
Silver bands follow black but make another large leap in terms of resistance. They add an additional 3.5 lbs. of force for a total of 13 lbs. required to stretch a 1-foot Thera-band to a length of 2 feet, according to Thera-band.com. Like the black bands, silver is an advanced color intended for major muscle groups when black no longer provides enough resistance.
Gold
Gold bands are the heaviest color available. They're nearly double the thickness of silver, requiring 21.5 lbs. of force to stretch a 1-foot Thera-band to a length of 2 feet, according to Thera-band.com. These bands are intended for advanced exercise.
Member Comments