I am on older female, have had many different bands over the years, none have ever broken or appeared significantly worn. To me they are the super budget way of strength training. I have always used them for variety in combination with dumbbells , body weight and now TG.
I ordered bands from Serious Steel and applied your discount, so thanks. I also needed to contact customer service and they were terrific, getting back to me immediately. I appreciate you promoting their bands, as I had a really good experience!
I’ve used bands for about 10 -11 years now. I greatly prefer the clipped varieties. Easier to stack, hold, etc. also broken bands. I’ll always recommend Bodylastics over everything else. String inside keeps them safe when they break. Which after many years and lots of use they do. More people should use bands. Great on the joints. Always under tension. Build muscle or rehab. Just great.
Last week my Undersun Large band snap during a chest press with their own anchor. I got no response from their Customer Service, so I went and bought Bodylastics based on their safety. They're backordered from Christmas, but I'm looking forward to trying them. Since Undersun Customer Service ignored me, I can no longer recommend them to people.
@@JoeCool0510 yes. Google bodylastic deadlift and you will find multiple results. There are pros and cons to clipped versus looped bands, but because of the safety bodylastics provides with the rope that’s inside of the band. I always prefer bodylastics. When they break, which all bands will eventually do, you will not get hurt with the bodylastics product
I found this explanation of the difference between the Rubberbanditz resistance and functional bands provided by the company in an answer to a question posed by a customer: "Rubberbanditz makes both the Functional Fitness and Rubberbanditz line of bands. They are essentially the same band; however, the manufacturing process of the bands varies slightly. The Functional Fitness bands are made via a circular mold; while the Rubberbanditz branded bands are made via a layering process (think of a roll of tape). Both bands are under our lifetime warranty and we offer the same level of customer service regardless of which bands you've purchased."
Great informative, no-nonsense, unbiased video. I found this channel because I saw a TED talk by the doctor who invented X3 and thought there must be something equivalent that is cheaper. Also, at 63, I'm kind of hesitant to jump back into weight training because of the injury potential that I am prone to and the bands may be a safer alternative.
Very helpful video. Thank you. I bought a set of Sunpow a few months back and like them. I do like the different color for each weight and the $30 price tag. Just using gloves and no bar, handles or foot platform. Funny name but good bands so far.
I have the Undersun (orange) bands. After a couple years 2 of them broke on me despite never using them around sharp objects. They developed a lot of tiny rips along the edges. And I'm just a tiny 120lb female. I'll be looking for something more durable next time.
Thank you for this review and discount codes. It was very helpful to understand what to look for finding a better band and possible future need for customer service. I just bought some Clench stuff and the discount allowed me to buy two more items. Keep up the great work!
You're awesome, Mike! 🙂👍 Your improvised training is the real deal. You remind me of Stallone in Rocky IV when he's training with all the heavy improvised stuff he could find to ultimately beat Dolph Lundgren!😂 Drago!!!!!!
Thanks Jay. We were watching Rocky 4 the other day and my family joked "there's daddy in the garage". I think I should have kept my original TH-cam name (primitive fitness) as that's what it feels like at times.
USMC vet here getting back into working out after a 14yr depressive dip. Being on a fixed income has limited me to just bands. So far so good 4 months in.
Keep doing good and get yourself out of that hole.💪 Any luck on anything you have used? Im just an overweight fatbody trying to bend over more than a minute without my back hurting
I’ve been using bands since 2002 where I came across Dick Hartzell and JumpStretch bands. Purchased my first big bundle of bands in 2003 and used vigorously for 15 years. I actually still have a couple of them. They certainly don’t make them like they used to. Wear and tear on them would show when actual thin layers of the band would peel away albeit still functional to use. Nowadays I don’t see that peel away, instead it’s usually just a straight snap or some form of deterioration due to their weak intemperance to natural elements. Anyway, don’t really know where I’m going with my comments but figured I’d toss in some personal insights. One thing about today’s bands is my appreciation to the companies that use the “original” color coding like red being the thin 15-35 lbs resistance followed by black, purple, green.
Just had my heaviest Sportsmith band snap on me. Upon reflection, my DIY board from an HDPUE cutting board might actually have too sharp on edge. Time to get a drimmel set.
Thanks for the info Mike, I've been rebuilding my home gym from scratch and stumbled on your channel. I have to ask, where do you get your shorts from? The grey and black chinos. I have been looking for chinos for years where I can workout in but the ones out there are way too hard or uncomfortable to squat in.
The Westside crew used to use jump stretch bands which I would suspect make the bands for elite FTS ,(not certain). I bought two of each including two minis, monster minis, light, average and heavy. I have used most since 2001 and only a couple of them have snapped on me. I have used them with varying degrees of frequency for over 20 years. Initially, although I have only been on the platform two times for specific lifts only contest (I won't call them meets because that's not what they were). It was just a fun way for locals to test themselves. One was a bench only and the other was a deadlift contest when I was in my early 20s. That is before I got into accommodating resistance and learned about conjugate periodization which I used for quite some time. When you use bands for accommodating resistance and attach Minis or monster minisr to band pegs on a specialized power rack which I purchased directly from Dave Tate when he used to be the guy that answered the phone at elite fitness I'm not sure how it works now. With the squat I attached bands to the pegs as well but didn't double them because I used the heavy bands which were fairly non-existent at the bottom of a box squat and added somewhere between 90 to 120 lb at the top per side the reason I know this is because I didn't have enough attached to the rack that was not both into my garage floor. I was always very disciplined about making sure I had at least three or four hundred pounds of stored plates on the rack when I performed squats because of the radical because of the radical amount of resistance they added to the bar at the top as my rack was not bolted into my floor. When I squatted one day and not paying any attention to the fact that there was very few plates stored on the rack, at the top of the movement the rack lifted off the floor in the back end of it where the bands were pulling on the pegs slammed into the drywall ceiling of my garage and when I sat back down in the box I realized that I would be stuck on the box with the rack on the floor or I could slam it back into the ceiling rack the weight and then the rack should come back down. That was my theory even though I was warming up with the bar only plus the bands. I wrecked it stepped out of the rack and began loading weight onto either side of the barbell until it sunk back to the ground. Can I remove the bands from the pegs. In any event, when you use bands for accommodating resistance they last for a very long time I found when you use bands to replace freeways that's when they stretch out more and that's when they are more likely to snap. The main reason two snapped on me is because I left them outside and let them get a little dried out I tried to soak them in water to get the hydration back up but the damage was already done and they were ready to snap which they did. Please try and replace your bands if you notice any tears or wear because when they snap not only do the bands typically hit you like a giant rubber band and really hurt you temporarily, but you can also cause serious permanent damage if you are doing a movement where the band snaps and you hyperextend something like a knee or an elbow. When I am only using the bands in replacement of the freeways, I always double them and I always knot them if I'm doing things like push-ups and goo mornings where the bands are moving a set distance you can't simply move away from the anchor like you can with tricep pushdowns. Therefore I tie the bands in a knot so that I get a decent amount of resistance when I begin the exercise in the low position. These movements put more stress on the bands and make them more likely to tear. The minivans in the monster minis 10 to have a longer stretch capacity the light average and heavy bands only stretch to a certain point before they snap and the snap is about as unpleasant as you.might imagine.
They still work but the bar gives off some slack, so I'd opt for the SS shorter 37 in bands for those. The only downside is that the knurling isn't as good and the fabric has reports of wearing over time.
Thank you brother. I definitely have been noticing my muscles getting fuller (and getting an immediate pump when working out) using the X3 / Bands type of set up. If it's not too obvious, I've been loving the workouts and nothing else in the past three years or so has pulled me away from the sliding bench trainer as much as what I've been doing recently. So I can't say if it's the actual product or just a different stimulus that's been working for me. I'm actually experimenting with a type of program that I hope to release the more I experiment with it.
@@hybridresistance must say I love the x3 workout 2 but I like to mix it up. Nice weather so I got sliding bench in garden for a back session. Did the pull ups with bands wrapped round board & rows etc and used my cheaper angle 90 knock offs. Within few hrs I was in agony and 3 days later my back is stretched & in bits. So great to mix it up with diff training aids
I bought 2 sets of Undersun bands, (Orange and camo) based on stellar reviews of their customer service. Apparently they have changed how their warranty is handled now. I broke an extra heavy band. I tried to reach their customer service multiple times, multiple email addresses. No response. Others have mentioned this as well in their forums. Buyer beware. I replaced the broken one with a heavy Spri band from Walmart. I was surprised at the quality of it, the price is less and they can be purchased individually. As the Undersuns break (most of my original Orange set has some significant cracks and splitting) I will replace them with Spri as an experiment.
None of these companies are engineering and manufacturing these bands by their own specs. There are probably 2 or 3 factories in Sri Lanka that process latex rubber and all these bands are made there. Even the bands that don't advertise that they are layered, are layered as you can see them if you look closely at the edges. The problem for companies like X3, Harambe, Rogue, etc. who are charging a premium for bands is that other companies (like those on Amazon) can purchase the same bands from the same factories and silk screen their brand name on them and then undercut the price. If you really want to sell a product at a premium price, you've got to be the only company that can make that product. Think iPhone.
I hear you and I am thinking along the same lines, and I am acknowledging that I am totally ignorant to their manufacturing processes. But I will say after trying these various bands out there is some slight difference in feel whether that’s just in the way they are cut and layered in their thickness. I also add they more or less I’d say are priced fairly the same because even the cheaper ones like sunpow or even the under sun bands don’t have as much thickness or density to their bands compared to those thicker ones.
Undersun, sunpow etc… are made from a mold so not layered and extremely cheap from factory. These are not ideal when using a ground plate since they snap quite easily with deadlifts but since they are cheaper I usually just have a bunch of them. Also you can use 2-3 bands together if you don’t have a thicker band
@@edwardnilsson5231 I'm surprised that the Undersun is a monolithic construction as I thought they were supposed to be one of the better bands. I have not been using bands long enough to know how long the cheaper bands will last. The ones I have are very cheap and they're layered because I can see the layers. I'm not sure if you can say that quality and price are directly proportionate. Chinese companies are willing to drop margins in order to gain market share with products like this.
Any chance you know of any resistance bands longer than 41 inches? I just got the X3 system, and I'm struggling with the chest and bicep push day presses as I'm a big guy and can barely fit the band around my back and arms in these two exercises. I did some searching but I can't seem to find anything longer than 41 inches. Thanks a bunch!
Can you compare strength by measuring resistance at specified stretch vs rest lengths? Why can't band makers compare & be consistent? Why not compare bands & band sets by adding widths or top lb resistance, when same thickness.
I'd say if you're doing things like heavier deadlifts / squats (especially with a foot plate) then yes, as it you don't have to double up on bands with the undersun. The undersun bands are great, but they are definitely more forgiving on their stretch/ tension. So if you want a dense more thick feel that has more resistance either the serious steel, Elite FTS, Rubberbanditz, or rogue fit that bill from what I tried.
Thanks Ed. It's tough they are really in a different league with the silicone and fabric. They are great bands, but just lack on the strength / stiffness side. I'd also say both of those have a "breaking point" where the tension just wants' to stop from giving.
Loved your video very informative just wondering the foot plate your using and also the bar attachment what brands are they as im in the market for both of them
Thanks John. I've covered a lot of brands that have a footplate from x3, harambe, clench to name a few. I've also make a bunch of budget option videos as well. For the most part I'm using the x3 because I just like the way it looks, feels, and the size for being compact. But let me know if you have a specific question on those or feel free to search the channel for all that stuff. Here's playlist for all of that th-cam.com/play/PLUiiIHn087rGzGcSNto1ZDQmeXUqeb3-c.html
@hybridresistance Thanks for the reply I came across your videos on footplate right after I sent you the message haha. Il keep looking at reviews on them. Just wondering have you used Insource resistance bands? The ones you have stated in the video other than Rogue are all international for me.
Great video format and information. I appreciate the direct and nuanced comparisons. Do you have a preference on step / foot plates? I have a pretty heavy adjustable bench from Snode (their storage bench that holds their adjustable dumbbells), which is about 270-290lb loaded up and has a pretty stout structure I can use for seated overhead and chest presses, but I'd like something stable for squats.
Are you talking about just "The Step" board versus regular footplates? If so, I'm definitely more in favor of a well built footplate because they are more versatile and don't trap down the bands as much as the Step. But those are still great budget options.
@@hybridresistance I didn't know there was a specific product called the step. I was meaning in general, boards or plates you can step on that manage resistance bands well.
I just had a UnderSun Fitness XHeavy band tear on me on my 2nd use of the band doing pulldowns with their door anchor. It was the camo version. Needless to say, I am not too happy about it.
@SlidingBenchTrainer I am going to replace that band with the Serious Steel band. While I am at it, I will just get their 3 heaviest bands and eventually phase out the UnderSun bands and replace them with Serious Steel bands as the UnderSun bands wear out. I did contact UnderSun customer service to have the band replaced, but I have yet to hear back from them.
Mike, what resistant band do you use on the Total Gym? How did you attach it? Is there a specific size? I saw one of you instruction videos as I am a new user of the Total Gym.
I am shopping for a ‘pull-up gift pack’ for a man, 38, 194cm, 140kg. Assister pull-ups aren’t everything or even most of a pull-up, but I’d like to include 1-2 good quality heavy duty bands in the gift box. Which makes would you recommend?
Hi! I noticed there are functional bands on RB's Amazon shop. Can they be used with a resistance bar like X3/Geku or is there a difference? (I am eyeing the Grey one which goes to 200 lbs). Thanks!
Can you build a complete gym using this technology? Is it as good as just old school free weights? Im brand new to training after a very long time. I sold everything i had years ago and no longer have the space or funds to pay by the pound again and this looks cool!
I really like these videos they are very interesting and helpful I do have to ask with these resistance bands how do you recommend cleaning and care for them? Does it matter if they’re latex or synthetic rubber, flat loop or elastic tube?
It really is personal preference. I think loop bands are better because they are more versatile, can provide heavier resistance, and are easier to use IMO. I personally never clean mine, but then again, I got tons of extra. So if one does eventually wear out with some little cuts, I just toss it. Latex from Sri Lanka is the way to go, but I certainly have used very cheap ones as well. I'd just say start cheap, until you know you'll commit to using them.
I'd go 41" for really any of the companies in this video minus undersun or Sunpow as those are a little cheaper in material. Promos / Discounts are the description box as well.
I'd love to check those out, but they are out of stock. I do love the stock x3 bands though. I got another x3 video coming out in the near future as a FYI
You hit pretty much all the big brands. The only other brand that I've read is good is 'iron infidel'. I have the orange under sun. The camo bands look cool, but it would be easy to overlook one if you take them out and about. You should consider buying or making a slant board. You could do these same squats, but if you do them with toes pointed down a bit, holy cow it burns the quads bigtime. Just doing bodyweight squats on a slantboard is great for quads. [just noticed you mention iron infidel later, that's pretty much all of them.]
I've heard good things about the Iron Infidel and snuck them in there towards the end I believe. Great tip on the slant board, I haven't tried or heard about using that.
Thank you for all your incredible informative videos. I didn't hear you talk about the floor anchor that you stand on. My question is can I purchase that separately and do most of the different companies that offer them separately will they accommodate
i have bands but not so sturdy,but its worth investing because of the durability and stronger tension means alot,i like the serious steel bands.look real sturdy absolutely squats ,heavy duty back rows,theyll last longer all purpose perfect for a t.g.i notice if u workout outside in some heat yr bands will naturally loosen up and become more flexible.thanks again mike.bless everyone whos watching👍
I might invest in serious steel because they have different band lengths. I'm 5'9 and the 41" bands I have from Undersun and there is a lot of slackness unless I grab more of the band towards the bottom.
I forget if I specified it in the video, but really their paraforce bands are my favorite. Their base ones are ok. Here's my first video with them th-cam.com/video/zVva8fdJs2g/w-d-xo.html
Thank you, great video! What size band do you use to perform your unanchored chest press, 32"? I currently use the 41" and think a shorter band will work better. Thank you!
Thanks, I checked out the video and found it very helpful. I have been using only loop bands for about two years now because I experience wrist pain when using machines and free weighs. Also, I get the benefit of total tension on all planes, especially horizontal. I do not use a plate or bar, but think I'm going to try a plate. Thanks again, great website. @@hybridresistance
Does squatting feel weird to you with just bands? I like to loop two of them over the ends of a barbell to increase resistance at the top of a barbell squat, but still have weight at the bottom, where it seems with something like the X3, there's only your body weight resistance at the bottom. Does something like the X3 feel too easy at the bottom of a squat?
Yes, I would say that. When I got back to bb squat after a lay over on bands (or anything) else that bottom eccentric position will rip me up for a few days.
I wonder if you saw a small tear starting in a band how a drop of super glue would do? I wouldn't do this with older bands, obviously they need to be replaced. I'm thinking a newer band that got damaged slightly.
thanks for the informative video. I have a small brain aneurysm (avm) been told no heavy lifting so think bands may be a better low impact alternative.
Thank you for your time and informative video. I'm sorry if I am asking you to repeat something I missed but is it possible to buy the bar separately and then buy the bands. Is that what you were demonstrating. Which bar would I buy that accommodates the most fans Thank you
Here's a video on some of the band systems th-cam.com/video/xsNnenQpG5E/w-d-xo.html If you're looking for another functional bar, here's a video on that th-cam.com/video/V9tX5QTm1Dk/w-d-xo.html
@@hybridresistance Thanks Mike. I just tried the Green 32" Serious band today, too hard squeeze in a x3 bench press. Maybe a lighter band might work. I think right now the standard is 41" have to look if I can find a 38" band.
@@hybridresistance Sweet, I bought lighter 32" Serious Red and Blue band. Works awesome with crossover triceps exercise.x3 The bench press was very tight, I was able to do it...very tight tension feels great!
Medium Grey X3 broke on me while doing overhead press. Pass on replacing them with original equipment. Elite FTS Mammoth is intermediate between the X3 Black & the X3 Orange.
Yes, I do. Just like using weights, it's more about how you're using them to produce results. I'm with you though, it's nice for nothing else, to just mix it up with weights.
@@hybridresistance 6 reps doing rows on the band and I’m putting for 10 mins it’s so different maybe just what my body needs, 🥂 thanks for the response
Another thing about elite FTS is the main purpose of the bands for these guys is to attach them to a bar for accommodating resistance the other thing that the originator or inventor of these resistance bands at jump stretch use them for was for stretching out athletes with resisted stretching but for the most part these bands were used by the guys at Westside for accommodating resistance so you have to understand there has to be a smooth type of l lifting friendly quality anything that's too stiff is not going to be great for maintaining or improving the speed and the compensatory acceleration that helps you get more motor units recruited and helps you drive all the way through the top you want the band attention to be heavy enough but you don't want the band attention to slow you down you want to be able to drive through it. Obviously when you're doing weighted calisthenics and such with bands which it doesn't seem like you do a lot of and you like to use the implements like the bar for chest presses etc which is fine but when I use my bands these days I'm using them for weighted calisthenics with a push-up apparatus and a pull-up apparatus p for the pull-ups I actually don't use in the name easier I actually anchor the bands to the floor and pull against the bands
When i first seen bands when i was a teen I'm 33 now,so when i was a teen i first found out of bands and was seeing old infomercials and it was mostly for rehab I had got mine 4 years ago which were tubes and it added up to 200 pounds Now they have bands that you only need 1 jumbo one which they now are called serious bands its amazing how tech can do that
I have some mexican brand named "Bold tribe" and some walmart SPRI bands. I used to think all bands where the same but the bold tribe ones feel less elastic compared to the Walmart ones. I have an easier time doing squats with the Walmart bands and because of that, I feel the band stretch syncs perfectly with my strength curve. I really appreciate that. I'll try the iron infidel bands next!
I don't know why people use these loop style bands I know they have their place mostly started with physical therapy.. The best bands that closely resemble waits best quality you can get is BODYLASTICS!!! They are so accurate with the weight tested with weight machines. For instance the 30 lb band gives you 30 lb of resistance pretty quickly and goes up to 120 as it stretches I've had these bands for 10 years and they started to break and wear down after about 10 years!! They have a lifetime warranty You just pay $5 for shipping or something take a picture and they send you a new one! Simply amazing and if you're really creative you can recreate anything in the gym and it's better for your joints in your body!! Love love love them!!
I personally don't pay any attention to what it says other than I know it's heavier based on that particular company. I really just use them more off of feeling / tension. If you want to know if you're getting stronger, you have basically judge it off of that band and your performance with it.
You can do it by using weighing scales on a platform. e.g. you have a platform, stand on it with the scales under you resting on the platform with the bands, now pull up and the scale will show the force at that level of pull. Of course if you remove the scale it is less stretched so would be less force, you have to account for that. The bands will vary as to what they mean. I have bands from the same brand and the declared forces make no sense.
I heard from multiple people now that the undersun bands have drastically dropped in quality in the last year or so. Then, you read the recent reviews and customers are not satisfied either.
You're right brother, thanks for the heads up. I'm only showing "gift card" entry. I'll check in with them, but maybe they're getting rid of affiliates. If I hear otherwise I'll get back to you
Follow up to the j Bryant bar I can confirm although it’s a tight fit u can use 32inch serious steel bands for x3 workout if u cannot fit with regular x3 bar. I’ve had these 32’ bands for ages and not been able to use with x3. The bar is aluminium and light & u can see how much more quality x3 bar is compared hence the £££
I don't know if you caught it but that because this video is for "loop style" not "tube style" bands. I also mentioned this in the video. I have covered bodylastics on the channel though in previous videos
I really love your reviews. They're very detailed and thorough. I have a question regarding the heavier bands. Would any of them give a similar feeling/intensify/level of resistance to doing an actual 225 lbs Bench Press with weights if doing a band only chest press? Am especially interested in either the Blue Clench Fitness (90-230 lbs), and the Blue EliteFTS Pro Strong (129-275 lbs) bands. I get that it is not linear weight so you cannot compare in an "apples to apples" manner; but on a generalized basis would they provide a reasonable similar level of resistance; or at least challenge & intensity? Thanks.
There's some bands you can't even move, but the tension with bands is just a different feeling. I can do some heavy banded deadlifts, but when I got back to a regular bb deadlift, it just feels like a different ball game. I also never really go by the weight rating on the bands as they tend to be all over the place. I know it's not really a detailed answer, but I I'd just treat them differently.
@SlidingBenchTrainer Thanks for the very quick and fairly detailed response. I also know that the posted weight ranges are not exactly accurate (or even remotely close TBH) but it is nice to have a reference point for personal motivation. 😃
I got some thru eBay years ago and have been great and now got thru temu 5/8$ each they have been great.i don’t know if i would ever order name brand bands imo
I did just review the Serious Steel 37" if you'r interested th-cam.com/video/zVva8fdJs2g/w-d-xo.html I am an affiliate with Harambe so I am looking at testing these in the future.
@@hybridresistance Harambe bands are too thick to be used with your hands. That’s one of the regrets I have since I purchased the system. I don’t always want to train with a barbell or handles that don’t feel natural to use.
I noticed the same thing especially when I first started to get into my x3 training, that my body just seemed to swell up immediately to that new stimulus.
That elite fts band the bluish one is actually rated as having more resistence than the x3 elite gold band ..the x3 gold is rated at 100 pounds and the elite fts is rated at 125 pounds
I've found the ratings to be way off or just unique to different companies. That bluish one is definitely not close to the elite band. Another is the serious steel gray which is listed as lighter than the elite, is the same or a tag stronger than the elite. That was one of the reasons I wanted to make this video to show the subtle difference between various companies.
@@hybridresistance thanks for the heads up. That elite fts blue band was a bit too strong for me to get quality reps for chest but the second strongest elite fts band was too light and i was about to waste about $100 on the x3 elite gold band mistakenly thinking that was somewhere in between .
love the objective and detailed reviews, excellent information for someone to make a buying decision, one favor i'd like to ask, maybe i have a slow brain, is there any way you can talk a little slower? i love your energy but you talk super fast and i miss some important points and have to go back and replay. thanks for all that you do!!
I appreciate it Edward. Point noted, I've been mindful about trying to do that more. Think I'm always trying to get a lot of info out fast to cover ground fast. Also doesn't help that when I watch TH-cam videos it's at 1.5x or 2x speed!
i have clench bands and they are great but the resistance between each color is so great its hard to transition from one to the other. i think thats probably the case with all resistance band sets in general compared to training with barbells
Not to have you waiting, but I will be posting that on an upcoming video. It somewhat depends if I'm doing "stand alone" versus if I'm mixing in a sliding bench trainer or anything else. I think I stressed it in the video, but it's also worth noting that I've been primarily using a footplate with bar and my squat rack.
I have just sold my x3 and ordered the clench system. It's probably arriving today. Got a great discount on clench, and a good price for my x3. I have nothing against the x3, but I ended up training mainly calisthenics, and in the last months, I only used the x3 for overhead press and some lunges. What I like about the clench, is the handles (like a dumbbell). I would rather train each hand separately than with a bar. Maybe I'll regret it. Let's find out :)
I am on older female, have had many different bands over the years, none have ever broken or appeared significantly worn. To me they are the super budget way of strength training. I have always used them for variety in combination with dumbbells , body weight and now TG.
I ordered bands from Serious Steel and applied your discount, so thanks. I also needed to contact customer service and they were terrific, getting back to me immediately. I appreciate you promoting their bands, as I had a really good experience!
Thanks so much. Very happy to hear about your customer service experience. Whenever I deal with them, they're always great!
I’ve used bands for about 10 -11 years now. I greatly prefer the clipped varieties. Easier to stack, hold, etc. also broken bands. I’ll always recommend Bodylastics over everything else. String inside keeps them safe when they break. Which after many years and lots of use they do. More people should use bands. Great on the joints. Always under tension. Build muscle or rehab. Just great.
Last week my Undersun Large band snap during a chest press with their own anchor. I got no response from their Customer Service, so I went and bought Bodylastics based on their safety. They're backordered from Christmas, but I'm looking forward to trying them. Since Undersun Customer Service ignored me, I can no longer recommend them to people.
can you do deadlifts with the Body plastics bands?
@@JoeCool0510 yes. Google bodylastic deadlift and you will find multiple results. There are pros and cons to clipped versus looped bands, but because of the safety bodylastics provides with the rope that’s inside of the band. I always prefer bodylastics. When they break, which all bands will eventually do, you will not get hurt with the bodylastics product
I found this explanation of the difference between the Rubberbanditz resistance and functional bands provided by the company in an answer to a question posed by a customer: "Rubberbanditz makes both the Functional Fitness and Rubberbanditz line of bands. They are essentially the same band; however, the manufacturing process of the bands varies slightly. The Functional Fitness bands are made via a circular mold; while the Rubberbanditz branded bands are made via a layering process (think of a roll of tape). Both bands are under our lifetime warranty and we offer the same level of customer service regardless of which bands you've purchased."
Great informative, no-nonsense, unbiased video. I found this channel because I saw a TED talk by the doctor who invented X3 and thought there must be something equivalent that is cheaper. Also, at 63, I'm kind of hesitant to jump back into weight training because of the injury potential that I am prone to and the bands may be a safer alternative.
Thank you and thank you for sharing that. I wasn’t aware of that talk until you posted the comment.
Great video as usual, Mike.
The quality choices in bands is very murky and awesome to see this comparison.
Thank you Stevie. Could have used your production skill on this video.
Very helpful video. Thank you. I bought a set of Sunpow a few months back and like them. I do like the different color for each weight and the $30 price tag. Just using gloves and no bar, handles or foot platform. Funny name but good bands so far.
Really good bands i got some.
Good thing about serious steel is that they do shorter bands for short people 👍 I use x3 plate and bar with serious steel 32” bands
I have the Undersun (orange) bands. After a couple years 2 of them broke on me despite never using them around sharp objects. They developed a lot of tiny rips along the edges. And I'm just a tiny 120lb female. I'll be looking for something more durable next time.
Thank you for this review and discount codes. It was very helpful to understand what to look for finding a better band and possible future need for customer service. I just bought some Clench stuff and the discount allowed me to buy two more items. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much Jane. The positive comment and use of the codes really means a lot.
You're awesome, Mike! 🙂👍
Your improvised training is the real deal. You remind me of Stallone in Rocky IV when he's training with all the heavy improvised stuff he could find to ultimately beat Dolph Lundgren!😂
Drago!!!!!!
Thanks Jay. We were watching Rocky 4 the other day and my family joked "there's daddy in the garage". I think I should have kept my original TH-cam name (primitive fitness) as that's what it feels like at times.
Yes!😂
Nah, that's overdone. Your current angle is much more revolutionary. C@@hybridresistance
Really enjoying Harambe bands but just ordered some Serious Steel 32” bands to see if they’re a better fit for my height 5’6”.
USMC vet here getting back into working out after a 14yr depressive dip. Being on a fixed income has limited me to just bands. So far so good 4 months in.
🙏
Keep doing good and get yourself out of that hole.💪 Any luck on anything you have used? Im just an overweight fatbody trying to bend over more than a minute without my back hurting
I’ve been using bands since 2002 where I came across Dick Hartzell and JumpStretch bands. Purchased my first big bundle of bands in 2003 and used vigorously for 15 years. I actually still have a couple of them. They certainly don’t make them like they used to. Wear and tear on them would show when actual thin layers of the band would peel away albeit still functional to use. Nowadays I don’t see that peel away, instead it’s usually just a straight snap or some form of deterioration due to their weak intemperance to natural elements. Anyway, don’t really know where I’m going with my comments but figured I’d toss in some personal insights. One thing about today’s bands is my appreciation to the companies that use the “original” color coding like red being the thin 15-35 lbs resistance followed by black, purple, green.
Just had my heaviest Sportsmith band snap on me. Upon reflection, my DIY board from an HDPUE cutting board might actually have too sharp on edge. Time to get a drimmel set.
I'm using undersun because I follow James Grage and I honestly didn't know of any other bands but I love them
I hear you. I used to love and put my undersun bands through the ringer.
Serious steel is my go-to, love that they also come in 32, 37 and 41 inch sizes.
Thanks for the info Mike, I've been rebuilding my home gym from scratch and stumbled on your channel.
I have to ask, where do you get your shorts from? The grey and black chinos. I have been looking for chinos for years where I can workout in but the ones out there are way too hard or uncomfortable to squat in.
Sorry for the delay, but I actually got those from Costco.
The Westside crew used to use jump stretch bands which I would suspect make the bands for elite FTS ,(not certain). I bought two of each including two minis, monster minis, light, average and heavy. I have used most since 2001 and only a couple of them have snapped on me. I have used them with varying degrees of frequency for over 20 years. Initially, although I have only been on the platform two times for specific lifts only contest (I won't call them meets because that's not what they were). It was just a fun way for locals to test themselves. One was a bench only and the other was a deadlift contest when I was in my early 20s. That is before I got into accommodating resistance and learned about conjugate periodization which I used for quite some time. When you use bands for accommodating resistance and attach Minis or monster minisr to band pegs on a specialized power rack which I purchased directly from Dave Tate when he used to be the guy that answered the phone at elite fitness I'm not sure how it works now. With the squat I attached bands to the pegs as well but didn't double them because I used the heavy bands which were fairly non-existent at the bottom of a box squat and added somewhere between 90 to 120 lb at the top per side the reason I know this is because I didn't have enough attached to the rack that was not both into my garage floor. I was always very disciplined about making sure I had at least three or four hundred pounds of stored plates on the rack when I performed squats because of the radical because of the radical amount of resistance they added to the bar at the top as my rack was not bolted into my floor. When I squatted one day and not paying any attention to the fact that there was very few plates stored on the rack, at the top of the movement the rack lifted off the floor in the back end of it where the bands were pulling on the pegs slammed into the drywall ceiling of my garage and when I sat back down in the box I realized that I would be stuck on the box with the rack on the floor or I could slam it back into the ceiling rack the weight and then the rack should come back down. That was my theory even though I was warming up with the bar only plus the bands. I wrecked it stepped out of the rack and began loading weight onto either side of the barbell until it sunk back to the ground. Can I remove the bands from the pegs.
In any event, when you use bands for accommodating resistance they last for a very long time I found when you use bands to replace freeways that's when they stretch out more and that's when they are more likely to snap. The main reason two snapped on me is because I left them outside and let them get a little dried out I tried to soak them in water to get the hydration back up but the damage was already done and they were ready to snap which they did. Please try and replace your bands if you notice any tears or wear because when they snap not only do the bands typically hit you like a giant rubber band and really hurt you temporarily, but you can also cause serious permanent damage if you are doing a movement where the band snaps and you hyperextend something like a knee or an elbow. When I am only using the bands in replacement of the freeways, I always double them and I always knot them if I'm doing things like push-ups and goo mornings where the bands are moving a set distance you can't simply move away from the anchor like you can with tricep pushdowns. Therefore I tie the bands in a knot so that I get a decent amount of resistance when I begin the exercise in the low position. These movements put more stress on the bands and make them more likely to tear. The minivans in the monster minis 10 to have a longer stretch capacity the light average and heavy bands only stretch to a certain point before they snap and the snap is about as unpleasant as you.might imagine.
Thanks so much my friend for this very detailed post!
hey nice channel! learnt a lot from you. what’s your thought on the J Bryant Bands for deadlifts?
They still work but the bar gives off some slack, so I'd opt for the SS shorter 37 in bands for those. The only downside is that the knurling isn't as good and the fabric has reports of wearing over time.
As a fitness freak ...i had experienced many bands ,the best ones with great endurance are the German made schildkröt..🇩🇪👌
3:09 Check out Hapbear bands!
That's what I call a perfect review. All questions answered.
Extremely appreciated Lou. "Tell your friends!"
X3 claims to put on muscle faster & im noticing u seem a bit more jacked lately, especially yr biceps. Do u think x3 has helped towards this ?
Thank you brother. I definitely have been noticing my muscles getting fuller (and getting an immediate pump when working out) using the X3 / Bands type of set up. If it's not too obvious, I've been loving the workouts and nothing else in the past three years or so has pulled me away from the sliding bench trainer as much as what I've been doing recently. So I can't say if it's the actual product or just a different stimulus that's been working for me. I'm actually experimenting with a type of program that I hope to release the more I experiment with it.
@@hybridresistance must say I love the x3 workout 2 but I like to mix it up. Nice weather so I got sliding bench in garden for a back session. Did the pull ups with bands wrapped round board & rows etc and used my cheaper angle 90 knock offs. Within few hrs I was in agony and 3 days later my back is stretched & in bits. So great to mix it up with diff training aids
I bought 2 sets of Undersun bands, (Orange and camo) based on stellar reviews of their customer service. Apparently they have changed how their warranty is handled now. I broke an extra heavy band. I tried to reach their customer service multiple times, multiple email addresses. No response. Others have mentioned this as well in their forums. Buyer beware. I replaced the broken one with a heavy Spri band from Walmart. I was surprised at the quality of it, the price is less and they can be purchased individually. As the Undersuns break (most of my original Orange set has some significant cracks and splitting) I will replace them with Spri as an experiment.
I tried to reach them multiple times as well. No response at all since months now...
I have the Undersun bands. Have held up well.
I've been using the Clench Fitness bands for about a year & a half now. I've never had one break.
Good to know thanks. They're a good company for sure.
None of these companies are engineering and manufacturing these bands by their own specs. There are probably 2 or 3 factories in Sri Lanka that process latex rubber and all these bands are made there. Even the bands that don't advertise that they are layered, are layered as you can see them if you look closely at the edges. The problem for companies like X3, Harambe, Rogue, etc. who are charging a premium for bands is that other companies (like those on Amazon) can purchase the same bands from the same factories and silk screen their brand name on them and then undercut the price. If you really want to sell a product at a premium price, you've got to be the only company that can make that product. Think iPhone.
I hear you and I am thinking along the same lines, and I am acknowledging that I am totally ignorant to their manufacturing processes. But I will say after trying these various bands out there is some slight difference in feel whether that’s just in the way they are cut and layered in their thickness. I also add they more or less I’d say are priced fairly the same because even the cheaper ones like sunpow or even the under sun bands don’t have as much thickness or density to their bands compared to those thicker ones.
Undersun, sunpow etc… are made from a mold so not layered and extremely cheap from factory. These are not ideal when using a ground plate since they snap quite easily with deadlifts but since they are cheaper I usually just have a bunch of them. Also you can use 2-3 bands together if you don’t have a thicker band
@@edwardnilsson5231 I'm surprised that the Undersun is a monolithic construction as I thought they were supposed to be one of the better bands. I have not been using bands long enough to know how long the cheaper bands will last. The ones I have are very cheap and they're layered because I can see the layers. I'm not sure if you can say that quality and price are directly proportionate. Chinese companies are willing to drop margins in order to gain market share with products like this.
@@edwardnilsson5231 What bands would you recommend when using a ground plate?
harambe??
Any chance you know of any resistance bands longer than 41 inches? I just got the X3 system, and I'm struggling with the chest and bicep push day presses as I'm a big guy and can barely fit the band around my back and arms in these two exercises. I did some searching but I can't seem to find anything longer than 41 inches. Thanks a bunch!
Clench Fitness claims 40 layers in the bands while Serious Steel claims 15 layers. Are you able to chime in on this? Thanks
Great review, when I was searching years ago Iron Woody brands were considered very good, I was surprised not to see them.
They were on the short list for sure.
Can you compare strength by measuring resistance at specified stretch vs rest lengths?
Why can't band makers compare & be consistent? Why not compare bands & band sets by adding widths or top lb resistance, when same thickness.
I have been using the undersun for a few years now. Would you say the elite fts are worth the upgrade?
I'd say if you're doing things like heavier deadlifts / squats (especially with a foot plate) then yes, as it you don't have to double up on bands with the undersun. The undersun bands are great, but they are definitely more forgiving on their stretch/ tension. So if you want a dense more thick feel that has more resistance either the serious steel, Elite FTS, Rubberbanditz, or rogue fit that bill from what I tried.
Hey man… great reviews! Have you ever used the Iron Core Fitness Bands?
No I haven't but I'll check them out. Thanks for the kind words.
Thanks for another great video Mike. How would you rate tge Vector Athletics bands in relation to the ones in this video?
Thanks Ed. It's tough they are really in a different league with the silicone and fabric. They are great bands, but just lack on the strength / stiffness side. I'd also say both of those have a "breaking point" where the tension just wants' to stop from giving.
Loved your video very informative just wondering the foot plate your using and also the bar attachment what brands are they as im in the market for both of them
Thanks John. I've covered a lot of brands that have a footplate from x3, harambe, clench to name a few. I've also make a bunch of budget option videos as well. For the most part I'm using the x3 because I just like the way it looks, feels, and the size for being compact. But let me know if you have a specific question on those or feel free to search the channel for all that stuff. Here's playlist for all of that th-cam.com/play/PLUiiIHn087rGzGcSNto1ZDQmeXUqeb3-c.html
@hybridresistance Thanks for the reply I came across your videos on footplate right after I sent you the message haha. Il keep looking at reviews on them. Just wondering have you used Insource resistance bands? The ones you have stated in the video other than Rogue are all international for me.
Great video format and information. I appreciate the direct and nuanced comparisons.
Do you have a preference on step / foot plates? I have a pretty heavy adjustable bench from Snode (their storage bench that holds their adjustable dumbbells), which is about 270-290lb loaded up and has a pretty stout structure I can use for seated overhead and chest presses, but I'd like something stable for squats.
Are you talking about just "The Step" board versus regular footplates? If so, I'm definitely more in favor of a well built footplate because they are more versatile and don't trap down the bands as much as the Step. But those are still great budget options.
@@hybridresistance I didn't know there was a specific product called the step. I was meaning in general, boards or plates you can step on that manage resistance bands well.
"Battle of the Bands"! 👍🏻😄
😂
I just had a UnderSun Fitness XHeavy band tear on me on my 2nd use of the band doing pulldowns with their door anchor. It was the camo version. Needless to say, I am not too happy about it.
Yes, I had a camo version snap soon after purchase as well.
@SlidingBenchTrainer I am going to replace that band with the Serious Steel band. While I am at it, I will just get their 3 heaviest bands and eventually phase out the UnderSun bands and replace them with Serious Steel bands as the UnderSun bands wear out.
I did contact UnderSun customer service to have the band replaced, but I have yet to hear back from them.
Great info. Any chance you could do one for the best mini resistance bands?
I can look into that. Can you tell me more about what type of "mini-bands" you're talking about
Mike, what resistant band do you use on the Total Gym? How did you attach it? Is there a specific size? I saw one of you instruction videos as I am a new user of the Total Gym.
I generally am using a SS or Clench. Here's a video on attachment sites that I use th-cam.com/video/_5HtMUv8MSc/w-d-xo.html
Thank you so much. I am just starting out my training and find your videos very helpful and informative. Thanks Mike.@@hybridresistance
I am shopping for a ‘pull-up gift pack’ for a man, 38, 194cm, 140kg. Assister pull-ups aren’t everything or even most of a pull-up, but I’d like to include 1-2 good quality heavy duty bands in the gift box. Which makes would you recommend?
Hi! I noticed there are functional bands on RB's Amazon shop. Can they be used with a resistance bar like X3/Geku or is there a difference? (I am eyeing the Grey one which goes to 200 lbs). Thanks!
Can you build a complete gym using this technology? Is it as good as just old school free weights? Im brand new to training after a very long time. I sold everything i had years ago and no longer have the space or funds to pay by the pound again and this looks cool!
I really like these videos they are very interesting and helpful I do have to ask with these resistance bands how do you recommend cleaning and care for them? Does it matter if they’re latex or synthetic rubber, flat loop or elastic tube?
It really is personal preference. I think loop bands are better because they are more versatile, can provide heavier resistance, and are easier to use IMO. I personally never clean mine, but then again, I got tons of extra. So if one does eventually wear out with some little cuts, I just toss it. Latex from Sri Lanka is the way to go, but I certainly have used very cheap ones as well. I'd just say start cheap, until you know you'll commit to using them.
Which bands and sizes are best for use on power racks? Mainly for squats and presses. I don’t lift heavy, maybe 150 pounds for both. Thanks.
I'd go 41" for really any of the companies in this video minus undersun or Sunpow as those are a little cheaper in material. Promos / Discounts are the description box as well.
Very good and helpful. Thanks!
Thank you!
Great video, are you thinking about getting the X3 paraforce bands?
I'd love to check those out, but they are out of stock. I do love the stock x3 bands though. I got another x3 video coming out in the near future as a FYI
@@hybridresistance that sounds great thank you, I also subscribed to your channel too.
You hit pretty much all the big brands. The only other brand that I've read is good is 'iron infidel'. I have the orange under sun. The camo bands look cool, but it would be easy to overlook one if you take them out and about. You should consider buying or making a slant board. You could do these same squats, but if you do them with toes pointed down a bit, holy cow it burns the quads bigtime. Just doing bodyweight squats on a slantboard is great for quads. [just noticed you mention iron infidel later, that's pretty much all of them.]
I've heard good things about the Iron Infidel and snuck them in there towards the end I believe. Great tip on the slant board, I haven't tried or heard about using that.
Hello Mike the 41 inch band work OK with the harambe T system I am waiting for? I was thinking of one 41inch to start at least for the squats.
Yes it does, you'll just want to shorter string with the sling. But my preferences overall are 41s.
Thank you for all your incredible informative videos. I didn't hear you talk about the floor anchor that you stand on. My question is can I purchase that separately and do most of the different companies that offer them separately will they accommodate
Hello, this is an older video but it goes over some of the footplates. th-cam.com/video/u2c457r0Jf8/w-d-xo.html
i have bands but not so sturdy,but its worth investing because of the durability and stronger tension means alot,i like the serious steel bands.look real sturdy absolutely squats ,heavy duty back rows,theyll last longer all purpose perfect for a t.g.i notice if u workout outside in some heat yr bands will naturally loosen up and become more flexible.thanks again mike.bless everyone whos watching👍
Thanks Elad! You're just full of positivity .
no thank u mike ,yr a blessing brother 🙏 using the t.g. as we speak
@@eladmitchell752 awesome brother. Hope you had a good workout.
I might invest in serious steel because they have different band lengths. I'm 5'9 and the 41" bands I have from Undersun and there is a lot of slackness unless I grab more of the band towards the bottom.
Seems that the X3 are the most effective ones. You keep comparing to the others. I am going to do more research on them. Thanks for the info.
I forget if I specified it in the video, but really their paraforce bands are my favorite. Their base ones are ok. Here's my first video with them th-cam.com/video/zVva8fdJs2g/w-d-xo.html
@@hybridresistance Thanks for the additional info.
Whats the best ones for boxing?
Thank you, great video! What size band do you use to perform your unanchored chest press, 32"? I currently use the 41" and think a shorter band will work better. Thank you!
Thank you, I use 41s or the SS new 37in bands. Check out this video where I review those if you're interested th-cam.com/video/zVva8fdJs2g/w-d-xo.html
Thanks, I checked out the video and found it very helpful. I have been using only loop bands for about two years now because I experience wrist pain when using machines and free weighs. Also, I get the benefit of total tension on all planes, especially horizontal. I do not use a plate or bar, but think I'm going to try a plate. Thanks again, great website. @@hybridresistance
Have you found that the layered bands don’t snap as much or at all compared to the solid single layer bands?
Yes, for sure.
Excellent and very helpful video.
Glad it was helpful!
I wonder where Quantum bands fit into this range of bands-- I think theyve been around longer than most of the ones reviewed.
Does squatting feel weird to you with just bands? I like to loop two of them over the ends of a barbell to increase resistance at the top of a barbell squat, but still have weight at the bottom, where it seems with something like the X3, there's only your body weight resistance at the bottom. Does something like the X3 feel too easy at the bottom of a squat?
Yes, I would say that. When I got back to bb squat after a lay over on bands (or anything) else that bottom eccentric position will rip me up for a few days.
Thanks! Great review!
Thanks Joy, happy you like it
I wonder if you saw a small tear starting in a band how a drop of super glue would do? I wouldn't do this with older bands, obviously they need to be replaced. I'm thinking a newer band that got damaged slightly.
I'd personally toss it if there's a cut.
@@hybridresistance I hear you, I just like fixing things and I'm a cheapskate.
Have you looked at Grymreapers resistance bands? Was looking into them and wondering if they are worth the buy or not.
I've heard people mention them, but haven't tried them.
thanks for the informative video.
I have a small brain aneurysm (avm) been told no heavy lifting so think bands may be a better low impact alternative.
No problem my friend. I'm more of a fan of lighter bands than heavy for pretty much everything.
Thank you for your time and informative video. I'm sorry if I am asking you to repeat something I missed but is it possible to buy the bar separately and then buy the bands. Is that what you were demonstrating. Which bar would I buy that accommodates the most fans Thank you
Here's a video on some of the band systems th-cam.com/video/xsNnenQpG5E/w-d-xo.html If you're looking for another functional bar, here's a video on that th-cam.com/video/V9tX5QTm1Dk/w-d-xo.html
Sweet thank you Mike! If you ever get a chance please review 32" inch bands.
I will check those out as well.
@@hybridresistance Thanks Mike. I just tried the Green 32" Serious band today, too hard squeeze in a x3 bench press. Maybe a lighter band might work. I think right now the standard is 41" have to look if I can find a 38" band.
@@hybridresistance Sweet, I bought lighter 32" Serious Red and Blue band. Works awesome with crossover triceps exercise.x3 The bench press was very tight, I was able to do it...very tight tension feels great!
Medium Grey X3 broke on me while doing overhead press. Pass on replacing them with original equipment.
Elite FTS Mammoth is intermediate between the X3 Black & the X3 Orange.
Thanks mate, is band training as good as weights I am 51 been doing same old weights for years need a change I think
Yes, I do. Just like using weights, it's more about how you're using them to produce results. I'm with you though, it's nice for nothing else, to just mix it up with weights.
@@hybridresistance 6 reps doing rows on the band and I’m putting for 10 mins it’s so different maybe just what my body needs, 🥂 thanks for the response
What foot plate do you use?
I use either the ones I sell on my website (made by my neighbor) or I gravitate to the x3 footplate because I like those dimensions.
You never linked your plate comparison video "down below" so now I have to go search for it.
Sorry brother, here you go th-cam.com/video/u2c457r0Jf8/w-d-xo.html
I want bands for hip mobility exercises. Which would you recommend?
Another thing about elite FTS is the main purpose of the bands for these guys is to attach them to a bar for accommodating resistance the other thing that the originator or inventor of these resistance bands at jump stretch use them for was for stretching out athletes with resisted stretching but for the most part these bands were used by the guys at Westside for accommodating resistance so you have to understand there has to be a smooth type of l lifting friendly quality anything that's too stiff is not going to be great for maintaining or improving the speed and the compensatory acceleration that helps you get more motor units recruited and helps you drive all the way through the top you want the band attention to be heavy enough but you don't want the band attention to slow you down you want to be able to drive through it. Obviously when you're doing weighted calisthenics and such with bands which it doesn't seem like you do a lot of and you like to use the implements like the bar for chest presses etc which is fine but when I use my bands these days I'm using them for weighted calisthenics with a push-up apparatus and a pull-up apparatus p for the pull-ups I actually don't use in the name easier I actually anchor the bands to the floor and pull against the bands
When i first seen bands when i was a teen I'm 33 now,so when i was a teen i first found out of bands and was seeing old infomercials and it was mostly for rehab
I had got mine 4 years ago which were tubes and it added up to 200 pounds
Now they have bands that you only need 1 jumbo one which they now are called serious bands its amazing how tech can do that
Do you have a best choice just for calisthenics? Just for pull-ups and dips and lever holds?
I think if you got either rubber banditz, elite FTS, SST, Rogue. Those all would be good for that.
I have some mexican brand named "Bold tribe" and some walmart SPRI bands. I used to think all bands where the same but the bold tribe ones feel less elastic compared to the Walmart ones. I have an easier time doing squats with the Walmart bands and because of that, I feel the band stretch syncs perfectly with my strength curve. I really appreciate that.
I'll try the iron infidel bands next!
Thank you. I heard people like those Iron Infidels
I just ordered a used x3. It’s missing the black band. What the most similar black level in your opinion?
Probably the black "serious steel", it's just a tad easier.
@@hybridresistance thx
I don't know why people use these loop style bands I know they have their place mostly started with physical therapy.. The best bands that closely resemble waits best quality you can get is BODYLASTICS!!!
They are so accurate with the weight tested with weight machines. For instance the 30 lb band gives you 30 lb of resistance pretty quickly and goes up to 120 as it stretches I've had these bands for 10 years and they started to break and wear down after about 10 years!!
They have a lifetime warranty You just pay $5 for shipping or something take a picture and they send you a new one!
Simply amazing and if you're really creative you can recreate anything in the gym and it's better for your joints in your body!!
Love love love them!!
You mean tube bands? Those are more for serious workouts. Not to mention those are horrible for certain types of physical therapy exercises
When using a single band, if it says on the band 5-30 lbs resistance, how do you know the actual amount of resistance you are getting when using it?
I personally don't pay any attention to what it says other than I know it's heavier based on that particular company. I really just use them more off of feeling / tension. If you want to know if you're getting stronger, you have basically judge it off of that band and your performance with it.
You can do it by using weighing scales on a platform. e.g. you have a platform, stand on it with the scales under you resting on the platform with the bands, now pull up and the scale will show the force at that level of pull. Of course if you remove the scale it is less stretched so would be less force, you have to account for that. The bands will vary as to what they mean. I have bands from the same brand and the declared forces make no sense.
I heard from multiple people now that the undersun bands have drastically dropped in quality in the last year or so.
Then, you read the recent reviews and customers are not satisfied either.
Their marketing and sales was always their strong point versus the actual quality of the bands.
Where did you get that wooden foot plate?
My neighbor hand makes them and you can get them here slidingbenchtrainer.com/shop/
Hey bro. Promo code not working on the serious steel page fyi
You're right brother, thanks for the heads up. I'm only showing "gift card" entry. I'll check in with them, but maybe they're getting rid of affiliates. If I hear otherwise I'll get back to you
This will likely cause tears and rips where the band is rubbing against the sharp edge of the platform. @ 3:25
Excellent review
Appreciate it, thank you.
Follow up to the j Bryant bar I can confirm although it’s a tight fit u can use 32inch serious steel bands for x3 workout if u cannot fit with regular x3 bar. I’ve had these 32’ bands for ages and not been able to use with x3. The bar is aluminium and light & u can see how much more quality x3 bar is compared hence the £££
Great points. Thanks for sharing that.
Can you fit the Serious Steel Orange 41" Mega Resistance Band on either bar?
After attempting the black & yellow 32inch with j BryantI I cannot fit into it to get the bar moving
@@CalebCold I believe not with jbryant bar orange elite
HEY HOW COME YOU DIDNT DO TRIBE RESISTANCE BANDS I HAVE THEM AND I LIKE THEM BUT I AM CURIOUS ON WHAT YOU THINK OF THEM
Since you did not include Bodylastic bands your review imj is incomplete.
I don't know if you caught it but that because this video is for "loop style" not "tube style" bands. I also mentioned this in the video. I have covered bodylastics on the channel though in previous videos
I really love your reviews. They're very detailed and thorough.
I have a question regarding the heavier bands.
Would any of them give a similar feeling/intensify/level of resistance to doing an actual 225 lbs Bench Press with weights if doing a band only chest press?
Am especially interested in either the Blue Clench Fitness (90-230 lbs), and the Blue EliteFTS Pro Strong (129-275 lbs) bands.
I get that it is not linear weight so you cannot compare in an "apples to apples" manner; but on a generalized basis would they provide a reasonable similar level of resistance; or at least challenge & intensity?
Thanks.
There's some bands you can't even move, but the tension with bands is just a different feeling. I can do some heavy banded deadlifts, but when I got back to a regular bb deadlift, it just feels like a different ball game. I also never really go by the weight rating on the bands as they tend to be all over the place. I know it's not really a detailed answer, but I I'd just treat them differently.
@SlidingBenchTrainer Thanks for the very quick and fairly detailed response.
I also know that the posted weight ranges are not exactly accurate (or even remotely close TBH) but it is nice to have a reference point for personal motivation. 😃
So would you chose Bandtz over undersun?
Yes, no offense to Undersun
I got some thru eBay years ago and have been great and now got thru temu 5/8$ each they have been great.i don’t know if i would ever order name brand bands imo
Woulda been cool to see the Harambe 38" bands included in this comparison.
I did just review the Serious Steel 37" if you'r interested th-cam.com/video/zVva8fdJs2g/w-d-xo.html I am an affiliate with Harambe so I am looking at testing these in the future.
@@hybridresistance Harambe bands are too thick to be used with your hands. That’s one of the regrets I have since I purchased the system. I don’t always want to train with a barbell or handles that don’t feel natural to use.
Very nice video, thanks for share 👍💯
Thanks for visiting!
Hi which is the smaller bar you are using
That would the x3 linked in the description box.
You're missing out on Clench Fitness extra heavy bands , They're one of the best!
I’ve heard good things about those for sure. The company also told me that they make those as well.
I just got a full set of bands I went ham with them never felt that kinda burn before full body burn jacked I'm surprised
I noticed the same thing especially when I first started to get into my x3 training, that my body just seemed to swell up immediately to that new stimulus.
That elite fts band the bluish one is actually rated as having more resistence than the x3 elite gold band ..the x3 gold is rated at 100 pounds and the elite fts is rated at 125 pounds
I've found the ratings to be way off or just unique to different companies. That bluish one is definitely not close to the elite band. Another is the serious steel gray which is listed as lighter than the elite, is the same or a tag stronger than the elite. That was one of the reasons I wanted to make this video to show the subtle difference between various companies.
@@hybridresistance thanks for the heads up. That elite fts blue band was a bit too strong for me to get quality reps for chest but the second strongest elite fts band was too light and i was about to waste about $100 on the x3 elite gold band mistakenly thinking that was somewhere in between .
what length of band do you use?
I use 41in but I. did review the new Serious Steel 37in ones as well. Those are really cool
What bar do you use?
Here's a vid on that th-cam.com/video/E6tU2i0SIM4/w-d-xo.html
For squats I anchor the bands to a solid, immovable cemented iron bar 20" below ground level. Foot plates are unreliable.
love the objective and detailed reviews, excellent information for someone to make a buying decision, one favor i'd like to ask, maybe i have a slow brain, is there any way you can talk a little slower? i love your energy but you talk super fast and i miss some important points and have to go back and replay. thanks for all that you do!!
I appreciate it Edward. Point noted, I've been mindful about trying to do that more. Think I'm always trying to get a lot of info out fast to cover ground fast. Also doesn't help that when I watch TH-cam videos it's at 1.5x or 2x speed!
can you describe how you train with the bands (how many sets and reps)?
i have clench bands and they are great but the resistance between each color is so great its hard to transition from one to the other. i think thats probably the case with all resistance band sets in general compared to training with barbells
Not to have you waiting, but I will be posting that on an upcoming video. It somewhat depends if I'm doing "stand alone" versus if I'm mixing in a sliding bench trainer or anything else. I think I stressed it in the video, but it's also worth noting that I've been primarily using a footplate with bar and my squat rack.
@@hybridresistance cant wait
I have just sold my x3 and ordered the clench system. It's probably arriving today. Got a great discount on clench, and a good price for my x3.
I have nothing against the x3, but I ended up training mainly calisthenics, and in the last months, I only used the x3 for overhead press and some lunges.
What I like about the clench, is the handles (like a dumbbell). I would rather train each hand separately than with a bar. Maybe I'll regret it. Let's find out :)
How was it?
@@tedlessor3887 I'm very happy with the clench system. Better than the x3, IMO