There are times in life when it can be extra tough to maintain a regular workout routine. Traveling is one of these times. Crazy, intense work hours are another. Exercise bands, also called resistance bands or tubing, are a portable and versatile resistance exercise tool. Some bands attach to door knobs, allowing you to do a wide variety of exercises.
Identification
Exercise bands are long, elastic bands made of rubber. They are usually 3 to 6 feet in length, and are available as a thin tube or as a wide band. Some bands are stand alone; others are designed to specifically attach to a door knob. Anchoring the band to a door knob holds it in place while you perform the exercises.
Features
Door knob exercise bands usually consist of four bands radiating from one central hub. The hub is the part of the band that attaches to the door knob. At the end of each band is a handle for your hands or your feet. You can also anchor a regular exercise band to a door knob with an assist strap. The band loops through the assist strap, which wraps around the door knob. These stand alone bands may or may not have handles on the ends.
Benefits
Resistance bands are small, lightweight and portable. You can easily travel with them in your suitcase or even a carry-on bag. Attach the bands to your hotel room door for a convenient workout in your room. Using bands is also a great way to workout in the privacy of your own home without a lot of expensive, bulky fitness equipment. Because they attach to almost any door knob, exercise bands can be used almost anywhere.
Options
Regular exercise bands are available in a variety of tensions. Generally, the color of the band will dictate the resistance level. The most common color scheme, from lightest to heaviest, is yellow, green, red, blue and black. However, not all manufacturers follow this order so always check the packaging or owner's manual of your bands for tension information. These regular bands must be attached to a door knob with an assist strap, which is not always included. Resistance band exercisers that are designed to anchor on a door knob limit you to the tension of the included bands.
Cost
Stand alone bands vary significantly in price. In October 2010, they range from $2 to $10 per band depending on the manufacturer, purchase place and resistance level of the band. An assist strap is another $5 to $10. Door knob band exercisers vary in price from $12 to $15.
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