Aug 17, 2017

Resistance Movement

Resistance bands are one of the safest and most versatile tools for building strength and mobility. They are perfect for athletes who are new to the weightroom and are a valuable component of even the most experienced athlete’s strength training. Here are some of the benefits of using resistance bands and how to get the most out of them:

Versatility:

There is a resistance band exercise for nearly every muscle group and part of the body. Whether your athletes are trying build upper body, lower body, or rotational strength, there is a band workout that can get it done. In addition, bands can also be used to help develop an athlete’s speed techniques or sport-specific movements. No matter the experience level of your athletes, bands can used and modified to fit seamlessly into your strength training program.

“Resistance bands are one of the most versatile tools aside from the body itself,” writes Julie Hatfield, Executive Director of the International Youth Conditioning Association. “Their versatility allows for unique implementation for individuals and teams alike.”

Control and Stability:

When athletes are using resistance bands they are forced to learn how to control their bodies. This engages their core and helps them to build strength in multiple areas simultaneously. Being able to stabilize and control their movements is essential for any athlete who hopes to perform at a high level. No matter the sport, having control of your movement is essential.

Variety:

There are endless variations to band exercises that allow coaches to constantly mix it up in the weight room. By shifting the anchor point of the band and putting athletes in different positions, coaches can incorporate a variety of different movements and increase range of motion. In addition, it can make training more fun and exciting.

Easy to Use:

Resistance bands are compact, inexpensive, transportable, and easy for any athlete to use. This also makes it easy for coaches to incorporate band exercises because it’s not hard to teach athletes how to properly do the exercises. That means that limited experience is involved for athletes to be able to make significant gains in the weightroom. And for those who are struggling with one type of band exercise, there is very likely a variation that they can do until they build up the necessary muscle.

Results:

It doesn’t take lifting huge weights to get significant results. Athletes will feel the burn when using resistance bands and will quickly see the results. And for those athletes that already have plenty of muscle, band exercises are a great way for them to increase range of motion and focus on specific muscle groups.

“Resistance bands allow athletes to dynamically move, have resistance and establish strong systemic bodies,” Hatfield writes. “Bands allow athletes to improve posture, feel the correct mechanics and provide a range of resistance that challenges anyone who uses them.”