Getting the most out of resistance bands

is the trash can nearby?

Every time i talk to a new client that “failed” previous rehab, it’s the same story.

“We did a lot of theraband exercises”

And usually other worthless “rehab” exercises

For whatever reason I’ve never fell into the trap of using theraband. The main reason is they just don’t do what I NEED them to do. Which also means

They don’t do what YOU need them to do

Here’s 3 reasons why I avoid them

#1 They just aren’t stressful enough.

The body adapts to stress. If the exercise you are doing is less effort than carrying a purse, then its not a good exercise

#2 The tension is too variable

The effort increases as the band stretches so resistances goes 0-100 before you get through the entire movement.

#3 Can’t follow progressive overload

Really the only concept that truly matters. Blame the variable tension and not knowing what the exact resistance. There’s no logical progression.

Now usually i’m negative so i’ll be positive for a change.

Here’s 3 things theraband IS good for:

#1 Upper body Isometrics.

They are heavy enough for the shoulder in this regard.

#2 Warming up

Great for pull aparts or lateral band walks. I prefer the band at the knees though.

And NEVER do monster walks…

#3 Assisted pull ups

When you have zero pull ups, bands are good because you need to start getting in VOLUME. Not the best resistance profile (too easy at the bottom) but its still good for getting in a lot of reps.

#4 Gym fails Videos

Laughter is the best medicine