There really is no argument on this. It's just beyond stupid to debate over the "type" of resistance when training. I used weights for over 45 years of my life and laugh when I think about the different debates that took place during those decades. Free weights vs. Machines vs. Bodyweight vs. Springs vs. Static Contraction ....and on and on. Its nonsense. I mean cmon people...STOP overthinking this crap. Go load a wheelbarrow with rocks and do shrugs, overhead presses,...whatever. I started integrating bands into my routines in my 50's and now I do it 100% of the time. I recently tested my strength levels out by doing weights on a chest and shoulder day. I did NOT lose a fraction of strength or power. It really comes down to using bands correctly and beginning all lifts with the bands pre'stretched and taut. You also need to be 100% focused on the exercise and let that tension work its magic. I bet many that simply jumped on the "band"wagon during the covid days were clueless on how to lift with these things. Likely they are the same folks that "swing" the freeweights through a rep to leverage the advantage of momentum. I LOVED my time with pumping iron but it took a toll on my joints and at some point in most of our lives, we begin to mature in our 50's and come to the realization that the bulky arms and chest are.....well.....silly. You can get bulky with bands too but due to the "way" many people use them, they end up trimming down and looking more defined since they are not starting at a really taut position. But I ask you,....once you get into your wiser years,....is that really a bad thing? What are you needing the bulky arms and legs for anyway? Ego? I've been there guys(gals)....it was sure fun but one day you wake up and realize you would rather have strength and mobility that will carry you through to your later life and everyday activity. Bands are not a scam anymore than Nautilus, Rocks, Sandbags, Total Gyms, or Smith Machines. Bands DO work and you CAN bulk out with them or get leaner. Climbing off my soapbox now. (And its easier to climb on and off with my pain free joints! Lol)
I'm 75 and used the 24-hour fitness for years and got really fit while I was working and then things changed and stopped and then Covid hit, and I went looking for something else and found bands. It took me a while then X3 showed up and I've been doing it for over 3 years now and satisfied with the results and only think about going to the gym to see how I compare. I work out for about an hour as I have modified the program to fit my goals but saying that you could just do it for 20 minutes 6 days a week and you'd get good results with a balanced diet that is not overly fatty. It's the diet that gets the abbs nothing else. I lost 50lbs and people look at me like wow you are looking great, and I just say it's diet, X3 and resistance walking on a treadmill no running. You have to get started somewhere and X3 is just about as good as anything I've found.
Consider adding a ? after SCAM in the video title. As is, people might not even bother watching as they might prematurely conclude that you actually think they are a scam when we all know you like them.
@@bossfan61 agreed, people just read the Title and think the video has exposed bands as a scam then go to the gym telling everyone bands don't work it's a scam 🤦
I've exclusively used X3 for almost 1 year and have been happy with it. The 4 main reasons for only using resistance bands in this season of life: 1. I want something consistent when I travel. 2. I have 2 young children which makes it challenging to go to the gym. 3. I was maxing out with lower body exercises for dumbbells at home. 4. I'm focused on maintenance rather than hypertrophy at this time of my life. Like you said: I don't believe there needs to be a dogmatic approach of "only bands" vs "never bands."
I’ve been in hospital for 7 months and counting mostly in bed, I’m paralysed too. A few months ago I was introduced to resistance bands to stimulate atrophied muscles in my upper body. Basically I needed to regain strength to be as independent as possible when I eventually leave hospital. I’ve been using them 4x a week for strength training and for HIIT workouts. The results so far have been amazing my upper body and core as in the best shape of my life! I have muscles I have never seen before. Resistance bands have got me hooked on personal fitness and training and I hope I will be using them for a long time to come. They are so much easier to use for me and convenient to store too! I thoroughly enjoy using them.
I,m living in The Netherlands, and in 2019 because of Covid, i quit working out at the gym. I,m training since 1984, did a couple local bodybuilding competitions. I used to have a lot of pain when i worked out with free weights and machines. Injured my left shoulder because of too heavy lifting. Thanks ( !!) to Covid , i start to workout with bands, and tubes. I have a pilates bar which i can connect to the bands, and a multi angle bench. Now i,m working out 5 days a week, and never felt better. All the old injuries and pains are gone. And i,m still getting better at 56 years of age. These bands literally saved my life. I also like working out in my own space 24/7, with my music. No more people occupying machines and weights. And no more annoying people just using their cell phones, instead of working out.
Here’s my take on bands: 1) Our muscles react to time under tension and tension intensity the same - regardless of the tension source. In other words our muscles don’t care what we use in order to get triggered for hypertrophy. 2) Bands are excellent and even potentially superior to weights at *low to medium tension* intensities 3) Weights are superior to bands at *high tension* intensities The reason for #3 is due to: 1) the impractical nature of setting up heavy resistance bands - getting into starting position can be tricky and even dangerous 2) the constant tension throughout the entire movement makes using heavy bands too difficult to get full range of motion 3) getting out of the movement can also be dangerous So my take would be to work your way up to a certain point using bands, and when you reach that point where the heavy bands are causing problems, switch to weights. With some exercises you can even combine bands with weights for added tension, avoiding the issues of heavy bands.
I second this. People don't understand the phases of muscle growth. They don't actually know how to use bands AT ALL outside of compound exercises and controlling the frequency. Isometric holds etc
How do you get to a supposedly superior high tension with weights without pushing through the low and medium tensions with way too much weight? Heavy bands are variable tension, not constant tension, so no problem there at all and no advantage whatsoever for weights.
I went far into the resistance band camp because I really wanted to avoid keeping tons of plates and bars/benches/rigs around - and work out from home. Bands check that box a lot, but there's definitely a learning curve to get the most out of them, and I switch between them, the Total Gym, and just basic adjustable dumbbells too. Everything that can get thrown in a closet if needed - forces me to try the weird stuff, and it's been fun, and kept me doing stuff (most important) Huge thanks to this channel too, of course
Thanks as always my friend. Your situation is exactly the target demographic that I generally want to speak to. Where you want results without sacrificing tons of space. Even though I'm covering some big pieces, I'm ultimately on the quest to find the ideal small gym space.
Good video Mike. I'm 58 years old and have worked out since I was 14. Originally I used free weights exclusively. Over the decades integrated a variety of equipment and techniques. Currently I enjoy body weight, resistance bands, sliding bench, and dumbbells. I fit squarely as a Subscriber to your "Hybrid Resistance" philosophy. Take care.
I am completing year 4 of shoulder replacement rehab. I am an example that bands will build muscle mass. However my workouts 5 days per week consume 1.5 hrs per session. It is not possible to increase muscle definition in 15 to 20 minutes 3 times per week. My workouts are a minimum of 1000 repetitions. That's what it takes. In 1990 i purchased a sliding bench. Had to get rid of it as i developed serious tendonitis in my forearms with zero muscle gain. The last 2 years i added light dumbells for curls. In my opinion the scam is short workouts and poor quality equipment. The bands i use the most are 20 inch bands from Serious Steel. I also own Undersun and Rogue loop style. GoFit are my tube bands. Zero snapped bands in 4 years. I do not use gloves either. Last no sugar, caffeine or milk in my diet per docs instruction. At some point walking or cycling must occur. In addition I sold my functional trainer prior to shoulder replacement as I am limited to 80 lb steel weight lifts. Bands are a must for myself forever.
Thanks for sharing all of this. I think your comment is great as it shows another person's experiences as I've had people comment on some opposite points on the channel.
@@andrewfitzman If you require info immediately my first suggestion is to watch Mike's videos on bands. Another specialist on bands is Discipline Dave who also uses Bodylastics bands which is what Mike uses on tube style band videos. It is difficult to make suggestions as I do not know your height or health. I am 6'1" 202 lbs and at age 69 in a July '24. I will say that I do not use door anchors for any segment of my workout. The heavier bands that I progress to in each workout would damage my basement door, that being a cheap interior door. If you are above 6'2" in height you will have to adjust your workout when reaching above your head. Most videos will show both feet on the band, I only use one foot to allow a raise above my head, when I use the heavier resistance bands. Due to my height "wingspan" and my replaced steel left shoulder. I use the 20" Serious steel bands to do lat pull downs with a basic curling bar. The 20" bands are also used to due dead lifts with my bare hands. They are also my preferred bands when I do the standing press with a curling bar. I have mounted Truck holdowns on the overhead wood beams in the basement. I have attached 7" caribiners on these holddowns. This allows the tube or loop bands to only conntact polished steel. This prevents wear on the bands. I use the 20" bands to do standing presses. I have mounted a second set of hold downs with 6" caribiners at chest height on studs on another wall. All hold downs are mounted with concrete anchor bolts. This provides safety and zero issues during workouts. Yes it adds to the cost but safety first. I also changed the caribiners that were attached to the handles of my tube bands. I use the GoFit bands as they were readily available in Canada. I can purchase a set or singles on Amazon Canada. There is also a Canadian distributor for these in Canada. I ended up purchasing other handles that look like the Bodylastics handles with a large ring. I attached 5.5 " caribiners to the rings. These handles are from Australia due to the Canadian dollar. A Canadian retailer has brought these in for pricing purposes to beat out Amazon pricing. They are the best handles I have ever used. Limited exposure on my part. The large caribiners I use make it a breeze to attach and detach loop and tube bands. If you only have light bands which requires mounting 3 or 4 bands to increase resistance than the large caribiner is truly a gamechanger. Last. simply focus on Mike's channel, Hybrid Resistance and Discipline Dave's channel they are both professional. Trust me I have 4 years of experience watching TH-cam and you only require their videos. As well buy the equipment they use and continue to use. You will never go wrong with Undersun, Serious Steel, Bodylastics, Rogue or GoFit if you live in Canada. Obviously if you have the means, health, funds and space for a functional trainer go with that. You will still require a warm up tool such as a set of quality bands. My first purchase was Undersun loop bands as they offer a nice stretch for rehab. Hope this helps.
YES! as with weights, it is HOW you use them, Jaquish and his "10 mins a day" probably only works in a limited way, mainly for people that haven't done any or much exercise before..... I think most people that get progress with bands, work a lot harder with more sets than Jaquish's 1 set and 4 exercises per day!
Another great video Mike, I started with bands in 2021, during the pandemic, I bought myself a set of Undersun resistance bands, started using them, and really enjoy training with them, I had been training with weights for almost 45 yrs at that time, I have stuck with resistance bands ever since, at 65, with arthritis in both my knees, and after 2 major surgeries on my left shoulder, and I’m sticking with resistance band training going forward, they are much easier on my joints,I can take them anywhere, and my body feels great after my workouts, I also have the X3 system which I really like too,and 3 sets of Undersun bands, where you get older you need to adapt your training to how you body responds and feel, and with resistance bands my body feels absolutely great, I’m not trying to get hypertrophy at this point in my life, I just want to stay pain and injury free,and be able to stay very active as I get older.
My new routine is Total Gym for mobility/warm-ups, hex bar squats/deadlifts/farmer carries for lower body, bands for the rest. We will see how that goes. I'm the type of guy that when on vacation, the only exercise that I get is carrying my band gear (was my adjustable dumbbells before) from the house to the car to the hotel room and back again 🤣 Thanks for the video.
Thanks Syndney! Love hearing that update to the program. I wouldn't really count what I'm doing as fully vacation, but since I'm all over the place this summer if I don't pack something my workouts are looking even more sparse.
6:05 - I find this opinion surprising. I've learned that tension is the driver of hypertrophy, so it shouldn't matter what you're using to build muscle, so long as it generates tension, which bands do. I don't think it's a matter of lengthened tension, either, as the research shows that there's only a difference of ~5% in growth, but only for certain muscles and only temporarily. And if it was the difference, you can still apply lengthened tension with lengthened supersets. In short, based on my understanding of the science, I don't see why bands wouldn't be able to add decent size.
In my opinion, bands feel great for back, triceps, biceps and shoulders. But for leg excercises, I just cant get to adapt or feel confortable, and I feel freeweights or machines offer more balance
I think using both is good. Bands offer convenience, especially when traveling. However, the force curve of a band is not optimal for hypertrophic development. Optimal hypertrophy happens when maximal tension is applied when muscle is in the elongated state. Bands exert maximal tension in the maximal contracted state. This is opposite the latest meta analysis findings. There are many studies that demonstrate this effect. So, I think bands have their place. But I would not replace weight training completely for bands.
Pretty fair and reasonable assessment of resistance bands. Personally I wouldn't call them a scam but some of the marketing, particularly the X3 Bar, is utter nonsense. I used the X3 bar for 3 months and lost strength across the board (and some size as well). The claims that it is 3x better than weight training as well as the claims that "weight lifting is a waste of time" are laughable. Quite frankly I got far superior results from a basic routine of weighted push ups, dips, pull up variations, squats and deadlifts than I ever would have seen using the X3 exclusively. Can you get a decent workout, get in better shape, lose some weight, look better and maybe build some muscle with the X3? Sure, but the claims that you can build more muscle in less time using the X3 than with weight training is detached from reality. The X3 has been out for 4 years now. If it legitimately built muscle 3x faster than weight training as claimed then guys who put on 30-50+ lbs. of solid muscle over that time (as Jaquish claims to have done*) should be so common place as to be mundane by now and yet we clearly haven't seen that happening. *In repeated interviews Jaquish has gone on record stating: “I gained 60lbs. of muscle while losing 16lbs. of fat using the X3 exclusively while in my 40’s and without drugs” Since he states that he currently weighs 220lbs. that would mean that he would have had to weigh 176lbs. when he started using the X3. Do any of his “before” photos even remotely look like he weighs only 176lbs.? In his "before" pictures he is no way anywhere close to 176 lbs.. He's easily well over 200 lbs. and was probably in the ballpark of his currently reported weight. I understand that the guy is trying to sell product but this goes beyond creative ad copy and stretching the truth into the territory of outright fabrication.
Thank you for sharing all of that. This is why I wanted this video, so everyone can see the wide variety of responses I often get with regards to bands.
I love my bands, but have started incorporating free weights as well. I think the problem is that people use the cheapest ones they can find on Amazon and they are no where near the quality of ones like Harambe, Serious Steel, Clench, etc.
@@hybridresistance I went back to my Undersun bands for a bit before progressing to Clench. I had been using Harambe and while they are awesome I find myself preferring the 41" bands.
I use Powerblocks (adjustable dumbbells) and a Gorilla Bow with heavy resistance bands. I’m 64 and this is all I really need to maintain strength. I also walk a few miles each day.
I'm in my mid-50's and I have the Total Gym FIT, which I got from QVC, about two years ago and also use the Iron Infidel bands, and do a lot of body weight exercises and I get more than enough out of that to get in a good workout and for me it gives me everything I need. I enjoy working with the bands but the key with bands is to have constant tension on them so you're better off having some accessories like a door anchor or something that you can loop the bands too where you can start off a movement with some tension and if you can do that, you will get a nice workout in for yourself. I know the knock on bands is that they eventually wear and you need to replace them but when you look at it, if your band set can last you two to three years you can always buy another set for under $100 so the prices are still reasonable for a good set of bands. Workouts are what you make of them whether it's weights, machines, or bands.
Thanks Stevie. I just saw that they've since changed their name to "Iron Patriot". I think you hit on a bunch of valid and important aspects towards being realistic and getting the most out of bands.
@@hybridresistance the Iron Infidel website still has the bands as "Iron Infidel" not sure if they changed their name or if Iron Patriot is another company selling on Amazon, either way, they give me a great workout and I enjoy working out with them. At my age, it's not about looking big or anything like that, it's just being fit and getting your body moving and the perks are people think I'm 10 years younger than I really am. lol. Keep up the great work with the videos!
Heres a band hack apply armor all rubber and trim protectant to preserve life of bands..people need to think more logically bands create friction and heat as there stretches and flexed...the armor all negates that and protects the integrity,
Bands have a place in my workout regimen. They were my primary tool as I recovered from 4 major surgeries in 2.5 years. Now I am in the gum nearly every day and prefer weights. However, bands are great for travel and those days when I can not get to the gym.
In my experience, hypertrophy is alive and well with bands. An intelligent combination with body weight and maybe some free weight exercises will give even better results. Resistance bands can also be liberating. I train at home during the week, when the gym is too crowded, and go to the gym during the weekend when I have more time and there are fewer people.
That sounds like a solid plan. I have to do a poll on my channel on how many people are just working out from home or also supplementing with a gym on certain days.
Thanks man. I know you were one on the channel that gave it shot for sure. Heard plenty of stories of people saying as much. I think it's great to hear all of your experience to help other viewers hear others experiences.
I stuck it out longer with the X3 (3 months) but also went back to weights as I found the results to be far superior. Quite frankly I got far better results with a basic routine of weighted push ups, dips and pull up variations than I did with the x3.
@@Johnl1800 Only thing I could see was a slight improvement in my arms. I'm in the x3 cult I mean Facebook group. Most of the transformations were people losing weight and u saw their muscles. I believe Jaquish build his frame using free weights.
I trained in a gym before so I know a thing or two about free weights. I did bodyweight training too. And almost 6 months ago I started using only bands cause I don't have a gym near me and I can't afford buying a home gym not even the most basic of them I also have no space for a home gym. I have a couple of cheap bands and some diy's like a foot plate and a door anchor and so. I made some gains and I'm really happy with the results. They're better than nothing and that's the most important point. I can afford them. I love how they push me to be more creative to be able to do some exercises. They're not better than free weights but they're not worse by any means. You can build muscles with them you can maintain a healthy body with them. I love free weights but I also really love bands. In conclusion resistance is resistance as you said and you can find a way to over load your muscles with bands with some brain work.
I'm 71 and use both,Still use straight barbells for curls and thick tubular bands for other movements.Exercising is always evolving and its good to change routines. Been at it for 35 years and just for general well being and fitness.
I think a major point Skyler King covered was that there are exercises that are amazing with bands since the resistance curve works well with it. It helps cover the opposite resistance curve to free weights. Combining free weight training and resistance band training will cover both sides of the muscle strength curves, giving you a fuller adaptation to resistance curves. I love doing Dumbell bicep curls to really work the lower to mid portion of my biceps best and later do some barbell and resistance band bicep curls to really hit the mid to upper portion of my biceps. Sometimes I'll do it in reverse. But my biceps feel like they can handle both fixed weight and variable resistance better by using both training methods. Same for chest, back, leg and other movements. Both are good and best combined. Its like cardio is good, so is strength training, and combing some of both is ideal for most well rounded athletes. It doesn't need to be one or the other. Well rounded people are often the most adaptable and thus more happy over all in my experience.
Maybe they're called resistance bands because of all the resistance to using them from the stack and rack free weight crowd. We ain't all young guys out here in fitness land, and some of us like our vertebrae and ACL to stay healthy. Bands provide the challenge without the collateral damage.
I think they have a less chance of error for a few reasons, but I don’t they’re totally joint damage free. My friend Stevie Richard’s made a recent video where deadlifts with bands mess up his back bad. I also had times where I’ve overdone it with bands
@@hybridresistance This seems to be my experience as well with bands. I've worked out with bands only for 15 years due to personal reason after being fairly an advanced lifter for many many years. Immediate joint aches I used to have went away along with muscle size when I switched to bands but then after a few years of doing it, I started having lower back pain and pain in my trap muscle chronically. Reccently I have finally switched back to weight training and the pain ALL went away even with heavier weights, and of course muscle size is coming back too.
Great video. I’m one of the older people who likes bands so I can work at home. I have limited space and I’ve found I don’t using “community” exercise machines at the gym. I’ve really enjoyed the X3 Force bar and the easy way to measure results. Your observations about the benefit of the shorter bar have definitely been spot on. Keep up the great work.
Well said @andrewmeyers1853. I am 63 years old and like this video stresses, I use them and continue to mix it up with weights etc... The part I love about Mike, is I hope most people catch, he not only stresses trying new eqipiment, but his message is you need to mix up what you are doing to stay interested and continue to have fun while working out as well. Like a lot of people, I bought the X3 system and have no regrets at all. Yes, Mike is smack dab on regarding the shorter bar.
@@rambojohn7118 I cant remember everything I said in this video, but I want to say “yes” only thing is that the e machines don’t have the cult following like bands do. Most people that use those I assume are doing for practical reasons.
I got injured and believe bands are for rehab 100% imo. I switch from free weights to bands and it does not build muscle longterm but it’s greatly helped my stability. I last a huge amount of muscle mass strictly doing bands but my joints do feel better compared to free weight training.
Bands have been around since early 1900s, they have been proven exclusively for over 125 years..some of the best physiques have been built from rubber exercisers, no in this day and age has imparted nothing new, and most don't even go to the original source of the ones who came before and wrote master courses on how to employ these protocols..I will say bands have angle of pull and biomechanical alignment and position to activate and recruit muscle properly, along with tempo and breathing mechanisms, bands I will admit are not to be pulled the same way we do weights and that's where in lies the difference you have to know band pumping techniques, which are critical to achieving the benefiets, and the little books and manuals that come with them are b.s and very lacking in proper instruction...bands absolutely can be a standalone protocol..resistance is resistance..tools actually have nothing to do with my muscle as activation..the base level is understanding mind muscle connection..contraction and relaxation and turning muscles on and off, biomechanics amd kinesiology..most fitness instructors fail to teach the most basal knowledge of muscle physiology..the truth is you don't even need tools or apparatus for base physique and strength..one must learn from within internal to manifest external..don't blame tools or apparatus for non results or results or lack of efficiency, if you don't know how to channel internal connections all for is naught...remember it this way whatever external resistance you come against don't you first must internally brace and activate muscles to take on the load..the muscles must be preloaded and fired up in anticipation of the load..the load doesn't work the muscles..the muscles work the load and recruit more fibers to compensate and then they learn to fire and recruit more efficiently enabling a larger production of force, which in terms enables one to effort against higher or heavier Resistance.. basically involuntary resistance allows a voluntary contraction of muscles to support or move the load...basically we're already very strong out the gate..we just have to volitionally tap into it
I'm 50 years old and I've been working out for 4 years using nothing but bands and some accessories (not the gimmicks though, just some simple accessories and my creativity in coming up with movements). I am noticeably more muscular than I was before I started but I do wonder if I would have put on more muscle if I had been using free weights. The reasons I've been using bands are money and space - I have little of either, lol. I have decided though that since I've proven my dedication to working out, I can justify the expense of free weights (I'm looking hard at the Iron Master system as I think I can fit it into my space). My point though is to say that yes, even if not optimal, you absolutely can build muscle with bands and they're a good option if your situation doesn't allow for free weights.
Resistance bands are so versatile. I used to think they were just for physio, but as you demonstrate, Mike, they're a great tool in the toolbox for a full workout.
@hybridresistance my bicycle in the Spring Summer Fall and of course my Total Gym Fit!😂 I've added the resistance bands to it like you showed us and all of your recommended accessories.
In my pretty basic home gym, my biggest pro for bands is that I train HIT @ a faster pace than average so 2 or 3 band exercises means much less equipment changes while training.
@@hybridresistance High intensity for a few decades, mostly at gyms. Bands mixed in since the pandemic. Probably would have never used bands if not for gyms closing. I like gym and home gym combo. I prefer legs at a gym. Push and pull I can do @ home (free weight, bw and bands).
Thank you for the video. Are you going to review the Resistance Band Bar by Sportneer ? It has an interesting new design that I haven't seen in others products.
I love using bands especially for my home workouts along with mace and kettlebell work all great at home for working out and saving space. Bands help create variety in your workouts and a way to keep trainingi if your insured, traveling or just can't get to the gym less stress on your joints I'm 62 now so having ways to keep trainings the older i get is reality important. I especially like doing lat raises and rear delts with the bands but overall i think it's better to use various types of equipment. Great video 😂
i am introducing them into my home gym workout. I also have barbells and dumbbells and bench press bench but i have no squat rack to place barbells after squats which makes it unsafe to perform. Since my goal is a healthy physique that is not focused on mass, I was positively surprised at how much I was able to contract certain muscles (back) without the engagement of biceps. the contraction was very clean and noticeable and spot on. I do not have a degree in exercise science but judging from how it feels, i think they should be part of the training protocol. I would recommend them ( buy different levels of resistance and different types of bands) to those like me who work out at home and who want a healthy back and overall well proportioned physique. You can do back extensions with them. How cool is it that you can perform exercises at home for which you would otherwise need a piece of equipment costing from 300$ and over? Maybe you get more tension in a typical gym setting in a rep for rep comparison but you can always increase the number of reps to increase the time under tension. Resistance bands may cost at around 40$ each (loop,high strength level) and 23$ for lite level loop bands. I think it's worth using them to complement rather than replace weight training.
Learning more about exercise the one thing I learned about my body is it prefers workouts where I use my body. With bands I can work more movements into compound exercises that won't jack me up, they're just more forgiving. Gravity isn't a factor and some movements I can't do with weights, not as safely anyway. There are more immediate ways mid exercise to make anything harder. If the bands are across your back or shoulders for squats, then them stiff arm or do squat shoulder or front presses. I feel they do a lot more for stability because it's not a weight I'm trying to balance, it's my body itself. It's not this static weight I'm feeling. With bands I only feel my body, I can tell before doing most things my form sucks because I feel the suck. That makes doing holds a lot easier too, finding the right position with a load isn't a bodily risk. Can experiment with angles without worry, we can feel as something isn't meant to move "that way" before we're screwed. Lately I've been varying my timing on squats going super slow or holding in either position. Whatever I do, with bands it's more stable because it has to be. At some point it just feels like my body is heavy and it'll want to be in the proper position not just me getting into it. It's a different kind of locking out, more natural. They'll always have an advantage in being able to fit with most of the mechanics of how the body is supposed to or can move. The limiting factor for weights is their load is only effective downwards. But their advantage is overall load. Bands can't get that heavy. Bands make working out fun and more interesting, I can make up or add a movement in the moment. If there wasn't a more perfect tool for getting a squeeze too. For example some of the poses people do to flex or pump their chest, throw a band in there and it's a workout. The very nature of band gives more of a real pump feeling, smoother anyway. A person can be more deliberate and minute. With a few additions a cable and fly machines are useless. For me it's not about getting big, I was fat I'm good on big, plus big means eating more. Bigger meals or more frequently.
@@Whatisright love what you’re saying here brother. I actually made a video somewhat related to this that many of the advantages of using resistance bands are that they force you to use lighter loads and go at a slower pace to get the most out of them.
I started working out with resistance bands a couple of years ago, and I was probably (at that time) an all-in person. I was 100 percent resistance bands after reading up on them and some of the research, coupled with the promotion by a few brands. I still used resistance bands on a regular basis, but mix it up a bit with bodyweight, suspension training, and kettlebells. The resistance bands are still probably my favorite tool because of the variety of exercises and how I can adjust them, but I love mixing them in with other types. I’m a home workout person, so I don’t go to the gym, and the resistance bands are convenient as well as practical. Are they effective as free weights, I think that depends on your goals. If you’re looking to push your one-rep max or something along those lines, then definitely free weights are the way to go. But if you’re like me (in my mid 50s) and looking to enhance your physical fitness (I enjoy running as well), then resistance bands definitely have their place. Like you said, they’re another tool in your tool box, and for me it’s one I use quite a it (at least three times a week). I’m not a big guy, never will be thanks to my genetics, but I do believe consistent use of bands have helped me get a bit stronger. I’ll continue to use them and mix them in with those other tools I previously mentioned. Consistency is probably the big thing when it comes to working out, and if resistance bands help me, or anyone, be more consistent than I’d say it’s a pretty worthwhile product.
I think it comes down to the saying "It's not what you got but how you use it." And I think the people who tend to rag on bands are the diehard Meatheads who walk around thinking they're in a bodybuilding competition. Most people are just happy being in good shape and physical condition. So if resistance bands can help people accomplish those goals then good on them.
You got a good point that for basis aesthetics and "being in good shape", I think the vast majority have no problem with the realistic expectations from bands.
I have used bands for decades as a supplement to the iron and they have real uses. Every Westside powerlifter has used them in the three lifts, and I see almost no difference in using some thick bands for exercises compared to using a Nautilus machine. Hitting the iron for a couple exercises and finishing with bands for a pump is a powerful combination.
Geez! Resistance bands have come along way. When I was growing up and working out I used bicycle tubes for resistance bands. Great video ! All I know is as I get older bands or.more than heavy enough for me and give a great work out.
Hi Hybrid resistance, I don't why people are getting so upset bands are just tool like weights but weighty are proven to get you big and thick. Where bands seem better for conditioning with some strength gains. Nonetheless, bands are very effective when using often which is where I find its advantage over weights because it's portability and you can use them as much as possible to 3 to 4 times a day where weights you have to have access to them home gym. And of course you have the difference from bands and weights with variable resistance which is a big part of what bands are all about variable resistance. But there's no doubt that both of them weights and bands and any other form of training bars calisthenics any other little gadgets you may be using all good for training. 0:02
My main form of resistance training is my Total Gym. However I do use bands mainly for leg exercises (along with the squat belt). I'm 66 so the Total Gym and bands are all I think I really need.
I’ve been working out for over twenty years. Belonged to NYSC to Equinox. I currently live in a building with two gyms. Got my Harambe system two months ago. I don’t even workout in the gym anymore. You absolutely don’t need a ton of equipment to put on muscle. Muscle doesn’t know the difference between weights and resistance bands. Resistance is resistance.
I understand what you're saying yeah it's possible to lose strength and mass I personally have never use resistant bands only in the beginning yes I would use the bands only for certain things and and not wait but now I'm using weights but I still use the bands for finishing an exercise like my chest and also to like warm up my chest before I start doing my other warm-ups to hit the workout for my chest as well as for my back and I feel a rock solid hard-ass burn so it definitely does help and and then you can do certain things with bands that you cannot with weights like certain types of range of motion so that you can warm up without actually holding something that's heavy even though 10 lb or something like that may not be very heavy to some people but depending on what kind of warm-up you need for certain body parts like with me my back is extremely essential the bands work nicely cuz I can just walk around the living room as I'm warming up my back if I'm bored just standing there I'm obviously with weights depending on what exercise you're doing you're kind of like locked in a specific position and you can't walk around you've got to stay in that position until you're done
Mike, I think you made some really great points and I find your pragmatic voice of reason to be very refreshing. One thing I’d like to add is that we live in a consumerism culture - youtube is for the most part a sales and advertising engine and I think many folks having separated from their hard earned on the latest and greatest piece of equipment are just looking for that social reassurance that they didn’t make a bad call and waste their money! Personally I think mixing it up with different equipment and modalities is a great way to ratchet up the heart rate, keep the body guessing and keeps things interesting. I’ve narrowed in on Total Gym GTS, Total Gym Rower,, Harambe System, free weights, hacksquat machine and using your videos I’ve been finding fun ways to mix up with plates, bands and dumbells. Could I have made the same ‘progress’ ( in my case) with bands exclusive or Total Gym exclusive… I think if I had absolute discipline , yeah, no doubt. However the thing is, I think i’d get bored easily so the mixing it up, stops my body from getting bored and keeps exericses fun and interesting and something I look forward to, rather than a boring daily routine where I feel like every day is a repeat of the prior day. Just my 0.02. Keep up the great work and hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday.
Thank you so much Tom as usual for a great detailed comment. You and I, I believe are not same page about having tools that keep things interesting in the home gym. I can see where bands would be perfect for what some people are looking for and they may not want anything else, but adding in a thing or two help compliment wouldn't hurt.
OKAY SO I'VE BEEN USING BODYLASTICS FANS FOR ABOUT 11 OR 12 YEARS!! First off let me tell you the most important thing about all this I AM COMPLETELY NATURAL I HAVE NEVER TAKEN A STEROID IN MY LIFE!! No enhancements.. this is important because science has showed even if you cycle steroids to put tons of muscle on and you can put 20 to 30 lb of muscle on easily doing any type of real resistance. Once you get to a certain size science has shown you could get back to that size pretty quickly. So if you hear a person say I cycled steroids a couple of times but haven't did it in 10 years THOSE ARE STILL STEROID MUSCLES!! KIND OF LIKE a balloon. A little kid can't blow up the balloon represents a regular person. You get that balloon to the dad he stretches it out and blows it up. The kid could probably blow the balloon back up again pretty close to the same size!! But if that little kid never has someone stretch the balloon out for him he would probably never be able to blow it up like that. Okay now that the steroid thing is out of the way. Because no matter what you do you can only get so big without steroids I don't care what you're doing and what you're using for resistance. I'm 53 years old now In my younger days until I was about 30 years old I was a personal trainer, as a boxer I taught boxing, Muay Thai and other things even had military people come in. I always lifted weights. No matter how hard I tried, using science, slow reps, fast reps, lifting more weight in the stretch whatever I only got so big. And I don't care how much protein I ate either or what workout muscle memory blah blah blah. After adopting only bands for all these years 11 or 12 I HAVE LESS BODY FAT AND I'M BIGGER THAN I'VE EVER BEEN!! I am more in shape than I've ever been. No pains in my joints or nothing. I am 6'1 205 lb and I am approximately 10 to 13% body fat which I've done in many different ways. My measurements are 34 waist, 46 and 1/2 in chest, 16 and 1/2-in biceps, 25-in legs. And I look very very vascular. THE KEY TO BANDS? IS HOW YOU USE THEM!! How your form is. Essentially you want to stretch them out which I can with BODYLASTICS because they have a rope in it once you can't go any further that's your lockout. Make devices off the wall I even have them attached to my bench so you're always working in the strongest range so when you come down you get the most stretch from that band.. Even half reps. I varry doing fast twitch fast reps, very slow 2 to 5 seconds down even half reps, I vary everything weekly and monthly. THE KEY IS ARE YOU SORE! That's all that matters folks when it comes to growing muscle.. You can vary the rep ranges everybody's different. If you're not getting sore and you're not tired. Doesn't have to be horribly sore just so you know you're getting pumped and you're really feel it. YOU'RE GOING TO GROW MUSCLE. And then if you recover quickly you should be working out again hitting the muscle again not waiting. Every muscle is different on how fast it recovers you have to listen and learn what your body tells you.. I hope this helped Peace out and God bless eventually I'll be making my own channel about this stuff. Putting up pictures and videos
Great video . I liked that you presented two perspectives of view about resistance bands, but I think the title is a little bit misleading making people think you are hating resistance bands.
i used to love training with bands but i switched off of it and back to weights because i just need to have numbers with my workouts for my own sanity. once technology like the x3 force bar becomes more ubiquitous maybe i’ll revisit it. for now i just use bands when traveling
I was never sold on bands until I got injured. It took time to find the right groove, movements and resistance but you can definitely maintain and even get stronger with them. I find loops offer the more optimal resistance. I bought a lot of kit around them to make them more weight like though. To the point that I can get just as good a workout as I can from a weight workout. More towards the pump side than the strength side. I'd say they're better for cutting than growing if you're going by body shaping terms.
I share much of your perspective on resistance bands based on my own experience. As someone who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since adolescence, I have found that in my late 30s, resistance bands provide a safer workout alternative compared to traditional equipment. They allow me to achieve an effective workout, similar to what I experienced with weights, but without the same risks. My goal has never been to maximize muscle size, but to maintain strength, and resistance bands have enabled me to feel just as strong as I did in my 20s. Ultimately, the key is to align your workout approach with your specific training goals.
Very interesting, Mike. My biggest issue with bands is that the research shows training at longer muscle lengths is the best use of time. Bands are lightest at this point, and heaviest near lockout where the science says training is less efficient. In addition, bands get easier as the negative progresses, and there is a ton of science on the benefits of eccentric overload. I've never used a sliding bench trainer so I don't know if that's the same weight throughout. I do use suspension trainers where it is heavier in the beginning (more body lean) and lighter at the end (less body lean). I suppose bands would be a nice change of pace and hit a little different for the TRX guys. I use suspension training as a change of pace for my Synapse which allows me to max out the positive and the negative. It's so much better than bands it's not funny.
Thanks Parker. I don't think it would hurt to pick up a cheap band set to incorporate with your suspension training. I know I've had a lot people on the channel who commented that are doing just that.
In terms of strength gains, multiple studies and meta analysis have found no real advantage to free weights over bands, and lower levels of Injuries with bands. Note this is in regards to strength gains as opposed to size gains.
I think the biggest real complaint I have about bands is the resistance curve and that they break on me. I have a Baraban chest expander, and that won't break on me, but it has the same resistance curve issues. The thing I think alot of people don't get though is you can still gain muscle even if the exercise becomes fully shortened biased by the resistance curve, you just have to put a little bit more volume in. Like if I use a cable to do a curl instead of a dumbbell I will get sore biceps faster, so clearly correcting the resistance curve helps, but just like the dumbbell curl works despite not being the highest resistance at the longest muscle length.
Great video and points Mike! I see bands as a sort of swiss army knife of training, they are compact, light, versatile, good at a lot of things but not perfect at any one of them. Any form of progressive resistance will yield results whether it is bands, weights, machines, calisthenics, etc, one just needs consistency. So it is important for the individual to pick what they will use consistently. I am similar to you where I don't like to limit myself to one type of tool, because it keeps things interesting and fun to mix it up, the brain and body likes variety, different stimuli and learning new skills. I would never say that bands are better or as good as weights like some other people as it is comparing apples to oranges, the best tools are those that will be used consistently and keep the user engaged while being aligned with their goals.
I lost strength using the X3 one set to failure protocol. I regained the strength doing my own multiple sets with the X3 like traditional weights. The X3 bar is great and very convenient. I use it more often than my rack and barbell which takes 2 to 3 times longer to workout with all the changing of plates.
Resistance bands are great, but the way they get marketed definitely make them seem to be gimmicky. However, they work very well and I always will support the honest brands that don’t promote the BS claims (broscience).
Hi Mike, i know i already commented on this video but I was thinking if you can do a video on the research on variable resistance and if bands have the same benefit on increasing bone density as well or something like that??
That's been on the burner for a while, there's actually a few reasons why I haven't done that one. I did do a light version here th-cam.com/video/BfH6Cmufa8I/w-d-xo.html There are some very positive research findings on band use, I'd just hope that such a video would still convey that it doesn't suggest that it's bands vs weights, only that each have their own pros / cons.
Thanks for the video, I really appreciate your common sense approach. I use dumbbells and some body weight at home, which is a problem when I travel. I was considering looking for gyms on vacation then came across your videos. Bands would solve my problem on the road of getting some work in, and that can supplement my existing equipment to get some different movements in.
I would like a barbell rack but im limited since im renting one bedroom at the moment and dont want to bang weights around. I have a pullup bar from baseblocks with rings attached, 90 pound powerblocks, and the harambe k bar system for my heavy compunds. It works. I also have a gym memebership if i want to use weights. Resistance bands might have a high profit margin but thats because its very niche and theres really only a few viable competitiors. Khalid has won 2 place in a competition just from bands. So, i think bands are a valid tool but it would be weird to just use bands because of a religion or something.
I think bands are legit used along with traditional gravity fed weights. I have a small spare room gym with 5-90 lb. dumbbells, bench, chin up bar and a couple sets of bands. I'm in my 60s and mostly use the dumbbells. Bands do have their place and can be easier on the joints. Doing a set of split squats with a 3 inch band for 20+ slow reps (or whatever weight makes your legs cry) is pretty humbling if you truly go to failure and can leave your legs sore the next day. Bands are great for assisted chin ups. I'm in the camp of use whatever you can and squeeze each set as close to failure as possible. Freehand exercises, bands, traditional weights.
A year of bands less than 10 minutes a day (about an hour a week) did far more for me than 5 hours a week for a year, plus the 2 hours/week commute, at the gym doing every machine as well as free weights and then taking a swim and shower after. Saw next to nothing from the gym, yet they charged me a lot of money anyway. Lifting weights is certainly a scam but the real scam are gyms in general. Got to dress for a gym workout, but not at all for bands. Don't need no gym bag or special shoes either, and can't take the gym traveling. I can't think of a single way that weights are better than resistance bands, except that weights are very definitely better for gym owners.
If you look at influencers who aren't selling products but are selling content you see that kettlebells are hugely popular and my thought on that is that kettlebells are simply super accessible to people. In terms of price, space management and also in terms of learning curve and effectiveness as a single piece of equipment. So it becomes very easy for the influencer to have an audience. I always thought that kettlebell content is far more popular than it should be. Bands aren't popular at all for male content creators. I think the rubber doesn't look as cool as iron but a bigger factor is that we don't have great complete system out there yet that are affordable. You absolutely need a good footplate for heavier lifts and some kind of handle. Ideally that footplate fits also into a cabin size suitcase so you can actually get the probability benefit of resistance bands. Harambe, X3 and Clench are all in the premium price range for now and the amazon products simply aren't there yet in terms of functionality. At least for now. Once we have a compact footplate that can handle 2 heavy bands for deadlifts/squats and a good set of handles that don't elongate the band length too much I think we'll be a lot further.
Hi Mike, as usual a very well measured, agnostic and honest thought from you. Thanks for being able to preserve this approach day in and day out. In latin it’s said “in medio stat virtus” which i attempt to translate as. The judgement which does not fall in to the extremes is the most virtuous. As for bands. I am in with Clench and for many reasons. Most of them are because it’s a serious company (living in a small town in Italy and being delivered the material at super fast speed and incredibly advantageous cost is only one demonstration of that). A broad example is that never in a FREE training session is mentioned a dogmatic superior benefit derived from resistance bands; on the opposite side some of them are performed both with bands and a pair of dumbbells. On my personal experience the advantage of resistance bands has not to be measured vs free weights (i have iron masters adjustable dumbbells), but vs a functional training cable dual pulley machine and they are less effective probably. Albeit the opportunity/ cost and footage is straightforward enforcing the case for at least starting with a resistance band ecosystem and maybe or maybe not at a later stage move on to a big buy on that side. They are still unparalleled for a great warm up and i would say that this alone is a great case for having a set of them at hand. Thanks and best. Emanuele.
This is the age old super silly argument and the one that many leveled against Arthur Jones of Nautilus many years ago to which he responded very accurately, "What does a barbell do? It provides resistance against movement powered by muscular contraction! What does a Nautilus machine do? It provides resistance against movement powered by muscular contraction, a Nautilus machine IS A BARBELL pure and simple." And Arthur was very correct in this as applying force/tension to the musculature is the stimulus that triggers growth PERIOD! Sorry to say but barbells/dumbbells are NOT magical tools despite what the so called "purists" say, I still use barbells/dumbbells to some extent but they aren't the end all/be all.
TRT is really good in building muscles that are easily seen. Good Genetics are help. So far overall this system is best for me at this stage of my life, 60. I’m not on TRT of any kind, but use aminos, creatine and a good multi. One meal a day, usually meat. 5’10”, 224, 18” arms.
I am 64 years old and have been only using bands for the past 8 years and have gained more muscle than ever. I have been working out with weights most of my life, since I was 14 years old , you can actually do all exercises that one does with machines and free weights plus a lot more with bands. You can do exercises, depending on who you grab and use bands, that are actually a lot more effective than free weights. Also is not fair that you picked James Garage to show that he is for only profiting from his line of bands. He has been teaching the proper way of using bands way before he started his own line of bands. Also he has never been hiding that fact that you can buy his bands. Thanks.
I've honestly failed on that again. However the last few months my training has been hard with managing time also covering stuff that was coming my home gym. It's one of those things I really just need more time in my workout time to use them how I wanted to. But I know I'll be going back to it again. It's a device that is still unmatched and very cool to say the least.
I love my loop bands, because I can fit whole gym in one bag. Just stay away from accessories. All you really need is gloves and socks/shoes, otherwise it does irritate skin. The only large downside for bands is training legs. Deadlifts are no go for me and I need to do single leg squats, so it extends the torture quite a bit.
I've used weights since I was a teenager now in my 60s I tried bands and use very little weights maybe 10% of my workout is weights and the rest is bands. I get better results with the bands and less joint pain I'm a believer in bands wish I had started using them sooner
used to be exclusively, free weights, then exercise machines now resistance fans, and calisthenics. that’s the progression you make as you age and if you do it properly, you may not gain weight, but you will be more than capable and fit than anyone in your age group and functional strength is far more important than gym strength. what I have realized, and the science proves that as you age, you may need to lift more often but less weight so therefore, resistance bands, probably scientifically will end up making a lot of sense.
My bands help me stay consistent by alternating them with dumbbells, TG, exercise ball, etc. Every workout can be different. I have a thick tube I bought in 1986 and it shows no signs of wearing out.
Hey Mike! Love your videos as always man! Quick question. Have you ever heard of the Beckford Bar? If so, do you think you would be interested in doing a review on it and maybe seeing how it compares to the Iron Chest Master? As always keep up the good work brother!
As someone who’s watched your backlog of videos, you were a proponent for using bands (that’s how I found your channel). Now you’re on the fence? And all throughout this video you’re using the X3. I don’t feel like bands are a scam, but rather do what they’re designed to do. And yes, I use bands and free weights. Anyways, thanks for the video.
I don't know if you watched the whole video, but I'm not on the fence at all. I'm literally showing some workouts in the back of the video that I was doing. Only giving feedback (based on the many comments, discussions with companies, and personal use) on what I the state of resistance band use. My basic summary is there "another tool in toolbox". As much as I love them, I would never use them for the my sole source of resistance training. Also on the channel I shared how it was really the x3 (or band board set ups) that I rekindled my interest in bands. I appreciate you watching as always brother.
@@hybridresistanceI hold your channel in very high esteem! Keep up the great work! BTW, it was your channel that solidified my purchase of the X3, a purchase I do not regret.
I have resist bands and the X3 bar system. I only use them because I'm always on the road. But I would definitely use free weights and resistance band combos if I had the chance. Both compliment each other. What I like about the bar and foot plate systems is you can do compound movements from such a simple tool that can be easily carried around.
Like everything bands have a place. Resistance bands are the go to for rehab after surgery not to mention you really have to work at it to cause a injury using bands. Weights and bands together I believe is a great combinations and as you age the bands become a bigger part.
Dogma is a terrible idea. At the same time, getting very familiar with certain tools and learning how to use them in a specific context can be better than being completely unfocused. I like bands, have a cheap Amazon type setup with various cable straps and attachments to facilitate some movements. I particularly enjoy adding band resistance to Calisthenics exercises to make them more effective and or efficient. But that is only because I don’t have time or interest in a commercial gym or gym culture, so I prefer to have some simple tools at home and make the most of what I have.
I love bands but still use weights as well as the speediance gym I recently purchased. I think you summed it up well, they are just another tool in the shed. There are definitely some band exercises that are my favorites and best of all I can take them anywhere to workout. I think their weakest point is tension in the stretched position which many are now saying builds the most muscle. Thanks for the video!
Jusy got the full Harambe K set. First thing i noticed is the start position of squat and deadlift are both the easiest when with real weights its the hardest(for most people). Like zero resistance till your halfway up from a squat. Anyway...itll fill a need.
Did you ever come across Power Reels a few years ago? Low weight constant resistance item in 3, 5, & 8 lbs. Theyve almost disappeared now, but they might be in this category.
How is time under tension a scam? Capitalists inflating margins is different than something being ineffective. Soccer players and speed skaters don’t have big legs cuz squats man, it’s time under tension. Look up shuttle MVP, better then any leg press on the market
If you dont thinks bands are are a good alternstive to weights, I suggest using them for stretching and warm up sets before hitting weights or after. It fixed my shoulder pain and its improving my knee pain. Some NBA players and other athletes train with bands to reduce injury risk. They are also great for traveling
Free weights are better; however, something beats nothing any day. In a perfect world everyone could have a gym membership and always have time to get there or better yet have a fully equipped home gym. I have dumbells barbells and kettle bells but my heavy bands help me use really heavy resistance.
Thanks for another good video. There are many tools in the tool box, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It's silly to dismiss a potentially useful tool without trying it out. My use of resistance bands has been mostly limited to adding extra resistance to my Total Gym exercises. I find using bands by themselves cumbersome because I'm focusing too much more on keeping my body anchored than on doing the exercises well. I may have to check out the X3 system because I can see how that type of system could make bands much more pleasant.
Thank again Kris for watching. I definetly think people should give it a go. Pretty much everyone I've given bands to in person were surprised how good and versatile they were. The next question inventively is, "can you just use these instead of weights?"
Resistance bands build muscle in the same way as free weights do. They offer resistance that your muscles fight against. "It should be noted that scientific studies in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research have found that there’s no significant difference in muscle recruitment when it comes to resistance band training vs traditional weight training, and that both offer similar benefits for muscle growth and building strength." "Your muscles don't care what tension is put on them. Whether your pulling on a band, pushing a car or lifting a weight , your muscles senses it as tension .And tension in general produces growth Anything that takes the muscle close to failure will allow for hypertrophy.”
I enjoy using bands for shoulders and arms, but I dont find it that effective for chest. Adding bands to my total gym definately makes it more challenging. I have seen much more improvement ever since adding them, and its even more challenging adding weights in combination.
I've heard that from many people about the lack of stimulus from bands. I think you're right in just finding another tool for that job. Aside from arms and shoulders, back would also be my other body part I think bands work great for.
I love bands because they are the one resistance system that has not caused me shoulder and elbow pain over the years. I can work out 4-5x per week with zero joint pain.
Personally im in my mid-late 60s. Over the years in my middle age i got into working out . In and out of gym's. I have bad shoulders now more with my current age. As a kid? I played outside a lot and in some youth sports like pop warner football or little league other types of sports . I was a skinny kid and as a young guy in my 20s 30s and early 40s . Then i thought what the heck got into the gym and started to do the routines that are the standards sort of speaking. Then? About 3 years ago in a gym here i saw this kinetics like cable band devise thing that i never saw before. I gotta say that really changed off the bat for me the band resistance trainning thing and negative stereo type thinking. Even though i now as a senior here have a feee gym membership? I now use the bands . For me? Having even a little muscle mass but not bulk? Good range of motion and daily strength to function daily is great. Im not out to be a Arnold Schwartzengar or Sly Stallone . Nope just your mild mannor older guy who can function daily and even with mild shoulder discomfort? I feel im blessed to have my resistance bands and for me ? They help.
Nice video. I think people over analyze fitness and get lost in the weeds. Anything that taxes your muscles and make them work is going to benefit you. Your muscles don't know what you are using to create resistance. Over the years I have used pretty much everything out there and pretty much every modality there is in fitness. They all worked as long as I put in the work and stayed consistent. I'm not going to say any one piece of equipment was really that much better than any other piece. They all have their positives and negatives and none of them are perfect.
@mike, are you using the X3 bands for that triceps exercise, or a shorter band? Trying to replicate that but it hangs lower than the pasties on a 70 year old stripper.
I'm using their ParaForce Bands which are 41 inch. I usually have to go heavier with the black, but certainly a shorter band 37s from serious steel or 38s from harambe are also good (got some discount codes in the description box). But I'm weird when I use my x3 and like continuity of using their bands. But the ParaForce as those are much better than their stock bands.
Depending on your goal, you just want to work out 3 days a week Real quick.Than exercise bands aren't bad. I just Replace my bands. They were seven years old. I'm going to start mixing them in with free weights and machines. Just to change some things up. The strength curve on exercise bands are not that good. With biceps, I'll do a quick set of cable curls Super setted with exercise band curls just To change things up
There really is no argument on this. It's just beyond stupid to debate over the "type" of resistance when training. I used weights for over 45 years of my life and laugh when I think about the different debates that took place during those decades. Free weights vs. Machines vs. Bodyweight vs. Springs vs. Static Contraction ....and on and on. Its nonsense. I mean cmon people...STOP overthinking this crap. Go load a wheelbarrow with rocks and do shrugs, overhead presses,...whatever.
I started integrating bands into my routines in my 50's and now I do it 100% of the time. I recently tested my strength levels out by doing weights on a chest and shoulder day. I did NOT lose a fraction of strength or power. It really comes down to using bands correctly and beginning all lifts with the bands pre'stretched and taut. You also need to be 100% focused on the exercise and let that tension work its magic.
I bet many that simply jumped on the "band"wagon during the covid days were clueless on how to lift with these things. Likely they are the same folks that "swing" the freeweights through a rep to leverage the advantage of momentum.
I LOVED my time with pumping iron but it took a toll on my joints and at some point in most of our lives, we begin to mature in our 50's and come to the realization that the bulky arms and chest are.....well.....silly.
You can get bulky with bands too but due to the "way" many people use them, they end up trimming down and looking more defined since they are not starting at a really taut position. But I ask you,....once you get into your wiser years,....is that really a bad thing? What are you needing the bulky arms and legs for anyway? Ego?
I've been there guys(gals)....it was sure fun but one day you wake up and realize you would rather have strength and mobility that will carry you through to your later life and everyday activity.
Bands are not a scam anymore than Nautilus, Rocks, Sandbags, Total Gyms, or Smith Machines. Bands DO work and you CAN bulk out with them or get leaner.
Climbing off my soapbox now. (And its easier to climb on and off with my pain free joints! Lol)
Thank you for writing all this up and sharing your experience
@@hybridresistance it was a bit long winded now that I see what I wrote....sorry about that.
I like what you said. Can you expand a little on starting with the band in an expanded position?
I'm 75 and used the 24-hour fitness for years and got really fit while I was working and then things changed and stopped and then Covid hit, and I went looking for something else and found bands. It took me a while then X3 showed up and I've been doing it for over 3 years now and satisfied with the results and only think about going to the gym to see how I compare. I work out for about an hour as I have modified the program to fit my goals but saying that you could just do it for 20 minutes 6 days a week and you'd get good results with a balanced diet that is not overly fatty. It's the diet that gets the abbs nothing else. I lost 50lbs and people look at me like wow you are looking great, and I just say it's diet, X3 and resistance walking on a treadmill no running. You have to get started somewhere and X3 is just about as good as anything I've found.
I totally agree I've had same experience and no injuries either which is a big plus 👍
The only people who think res. bands are a scam have never used them, or have no idea how to workout.
Consider adding a ? after SCAM in the video title. As is, people might not even bother watching as they might prematurely conclude that you actually think they are a scam when we all know you like them.
I might do that, thanks. But I do think depending on how they’re presented (points in the video) can be a “scam”. But that’s not exclusive to bands
It's already happening.
@@hybridresistanceI was about to stop watching due to the headline. Clickbait is fine in most cases, but this turns people away.
@@bossfan61 agreed, people just read the Title and think the video has exposed bands as a scam then go to the gym telling everyone bands don't work it's a scam 🤦
I dont think its a scam as its up to us to make our own success its not the bands fault its just a tool.@@hybridresistance
I've exclusively used X3 for almost 1 year and have been happy with it.
The 4 main reasons for only using resistance bands in this season of life:
1. I want something consistent when I travel.
2. I have 2 young children which makes it challenging to go to the gym.
3. I was maxing out with lower body exercises for dumbbells at home.
4. I'm focused on maintenance rather than hypertrophy at this time of my life.
Like you said: I don't believe there needs to be a dogmatic approach of "only bands" vs "never bands."
Love it Phillip. I think the practical bulletpoints help put things into perspective for people either considering it or are totally against them.
Trump is now in so call a spade a spade: "Only bands" is the only intelligent option.
I’ve been in hospital for 7 months and counting mostly in bed, I’m paralysed too. A few months ago I was introduced to resistance bands to stimulate atrophied muscles in my upper body. Basically I needed to regain strength to be as independent as possible when I eventually leave hospital. I’ve been using them 4x a week for strength training and for HIIT workouts. The results so far have been amazing my upper body and core as in the best shape of my life! I have muscles I have never seen before. Resistance bands have got me hooked on personal fitness and training and I hope I will be using them for a long time to come. They are so much easier to use for me and convenient to store too! I thoroughly enjoy using them.
Thank you for sharing all of this Jamie.
I,m living in The Netherlands, and in 2019 because of Covid, i quit working out at the gym. I,m training since 1984, did a couple local bodybuilding competitions. I used to have a lot of pain when i worked out with free weights and machines. Injured my left shoulder because of too heavy lifting. Thanks ( !!) to Covid , i start to workout with bands, and tubes. I have a pilates bar which i can connect to the bands, and a multi angle bench. Now i,m working out 5 days a week, and never felt better. All the old injuries and pains are gone. And i,m still getting better at 56 years of age. These bands literally saved my life. I also like working out in my own space 24/7, with my music. No more people occupying machines and weights. And no more annoying people just using their cell phones, instead of working out.
Here’s my take on bands:
1) Our muscles react to time under tension and tension intensity the same - regardless of the tension source. In other words our muscles don’t care what we use in order to get triggered for hypertrophy.
2) Bands are excellent and even potentially superior to weights at *low to medium tension* intensities
3) Weights are superior to bands at *high tension* intensities
The reason for #3 is due to:
1) the impractical nature of setting up heavy resistance bands - getting into starting position can be tricky and even dangerous
2) the constant tension throughout the entire movement makes using heavy bands too difficult to get full range of motion
3) getting out of the movement can also be dangerous
So my take would be to work your way up to a certain point using bands, and when you reach that point where the heavy bands are causing problems, switch to weights.
With some exercises you can even combine bands with weights for added tension, avoiding the issues of heavy bands.
Great comment, thanks
I second this. People don't understand the phases of muscle growth. They don't actually know how to use bands AT ALL outside of compound exercises and controlling the frequency. Isometric holds etc
How do you get to a supposedly superior high tension with weights without pushing through the low and medium tensions with way too much weight? Heavy bands are variable tension, not constant tension, so no problem there at all and no advantage whatsoever for weights.
I went far into the resistance band camp because I really wanted to avoid keeping tons of plates and bars/benches/rigs around - and work out from home. Bands check that box a lot, but there's definitely a learning curve to get the most out of them, and I switch between them, the Total Gym, and just basic adjustable dumbbells too. Everything that can get thrown in a closet if needed - forces me to try the weird stuff, and it's been fun, and kept me doing stuff (most important) Huge thanks to this channel too, of course
Thanks as always my friend. Your situation is exactly the target demographic that I generally want to speak to. Where you want results without sacrificing tons of space. Even though I'm covering some big pieces, I'm ultimately on the quest to find the ideal small gym space.
Good video Mike. I'm 58 years old and have worked out since I was 14. Originally I used free weights exclusively. Over the decades integrated a variety of equipment and techniques.
Currently I enjoy body weight, resistance bands, sliding bench, and dumbbells.
I fit squarely as a Subscriber to your "Hybrid Resistance" philosophy.
Take care.
Thanks chiming in James. That mix of equipment you described covers a lot of ground for sure!
I like cable machines. Great gains, low levels of injury, and faster recovery. Bands are supplemental to weights and machines.
I am completing year 4 of shoulder replacement rehab. I am an example that bands will build muscle mass. However my workouts 5 days per week consume 1.5 hrs per session. It is not possible to increase muscle definition in 15 to 20 minutes 3 times per week. My workouts are a minimum of 1000 repetitions. That's what it takes. In 1990 i purchased a sliding bench. Had to get rid of it as i developed serious tendonitis in my forearms with zero muscle gain. The last 2 years i added light dumbells for curls. In my opinion the scam is short workouts and poor quality equipment. The bands i use the most are 20 inch bands from Serious Steel. I also own Undersun and Rogue loop style. GoFit are my tube bands. Zero snapped bands in 4 years. I do not use gloves either. Last no sugar, caffeine or milk in my diet per docs instruction. At some point walking or cycling must occur. In addition I sold my functional trainer prior to shoulder replacement as I am limited to 80 lb steel weight lifts. Bands are a must for myself forever.
Thanks for sharing all of this. I think your comment is great as it shows another person's experiences as I've had people comment on some opposite points on the channel.
Hi. Very interested to hear what one of your typical band workouts would look like. Thanks.
@@andrewfitzman If you require info immediately my first suggestion is to watch Mike's videos on bands. Another specialist on bands is Discipline Dave who also uses Bodylastics bands which is what Mike uses on tube style band videos.
It is difficult to make suggestions as I do not know your height or health. I am 6'1" 202 lbs and at age 69 in a July '24. I will say that I do not use door anchors for any segment of my workout. The heavier bands that I progress to in each workout would damage my basement door, that being a cheap interior door. If you are above 6'2" in height you will have to adjust your workout when reaching above your head. Most videos will show both feet on the band, I only use one foot to allow a raise above my head, when I use the heavier resistance bands. Due to my height "wingspan" and my replaced steel left shoulder.
I use the 20" Serious steel bands to do lat pull downs with a basic curling bar.
The 20" bands are also used to due dead lifts with my bare hands. They are also my preferred bands when I do the standing press with a curling bar. I have mounted Truck holdowns on the overhead wood beams in the basement. I have attached 7" caribiners on these holddowns. This allows the tube or loop bands to only conntact polished steel. This prevents wear on the bands.
I use the 20" bands to do standing presses. I have mounted a second set of hold downs with 6" caribiners at chest height on studs on another wall. All hold downs are mounted with concrete anchor bolts. This provides safety and zero issues during workouts. Yes it adds to the cost but safety first. I also changed the caribiners that were attached to the handles of my tube bands. I use the GoFit bands as they were readily available in Canada. I can purchase a set or singles on Amazon Canada. There is also a Canadian distributor for these in Canada. I ended up purchasing other handles that look like the Bodylastics handles with a large ring. I attached 5.5 " caribiners to the rings. These handles are from Australia due to the Canadian dollar. A Canadian retailer has brought these in for pricing purposes to beat out Amazon pricing. They are the best handles I have ever used. Limited exposure on my part.
The large caribiners I use make it a breeze to attach and detach loop and tube bands. If you only have light bands which requires mounting 3 or 4 bands to increase resistance than the large caribiner is truly a gamechanger.
Last. simply focus on Mike's channel, Hybrid Resistance and Discipline Dave's channel they are both professional. Trust me I have 4 years of experience watching TH-cam and you only require their videos. As well buy the equipment they use and continue to use. You will never go wrong with Undersun, Serious Steel, Bodylastics, Rogue or GoFit if you live in Canada. Obviously if you have the means, health, funds and space for a functional trainer go with that. You will still require a warm up tool such as a set of quality bands. My first purchase was Undersun loop bands as they offer a nice stretch for rehab.
Hope this helps.
YES! as with weights, it is HOW you use them, Jaquish and his "10 mins a day" probably only works in a limited way, mainly for people that haven't done any or much exercise before..... I think most people that get progress with bands, work a lot harder with more sets than Jaquish's 1 set and 4 exercises per day!
Another great video Mike, I started with bands in 2021, during the pandemic, I bought myself a set of Undersun resistance bands, started using them, and really enjoy training with them, I had been training with weights for almost 45 yrs at that time, I have stuck with resistance bands ever since, at 65, with arthritis in both my knees, and after 2 major surgeries on my left shoulder, and I’m sticking with resistance band training going forward, they are much easier on my joints,I can take them anywhere, and my body feels great after my workouts, I also have the X3 system which I really like too,and 3 sets of Undersun bands, where you get older you need to adapt your training to how you body responds and feel, and with resistance bands my body feels absolutely great, I’m not trying to get hypertrophy at this point in my life, I just want to stay pain and injury free,and be able to stay very active as I get older.
Thanks Dean! These are the kind of comments and stories I was hoping people would share on this video.
My new routine is Total Gym for mobility/warm-ups, hex bar squats/deadlifts/farmer carries for lower body, bands for the rest. We will see how that goes. I'm the type of guy that when on vacation, the only exercise that I get is carrying my band gear (was my adjustable dumbbells before) from the house to the car to the hotel room and back again 🤣 Thanks for the video.
Thanks Syndney! Love hearing that update to the program. I wouldn't really count what I'm doing as fully vacation, but since I'm all over the place this summer if I don't pack something my workouts are looking even more sparse.
6:05 - I find this opinion surprising. I've learned that tension is the driver of hypertrophy, so it shouldn't matter what you're using to build muscle, so long as it generates tension, which bands do.
I don't think it's a matter of lengthened tension, either, as the research shows that there's only a difference of ~5% in growth, but only for certain muscles and only temporarily. And if it was the difference, you can still apply lengthened tension with lengthened supersets.
In short, based on my understanding of the science, I don't see why bands wouldn't be able to add decent size.
In my opinion, bands feel great for back, triceps, biceps and shoulders. But for leg excercises, I just cant get to adapt or feel confortable, and I feel freeweights or machines offer more balance
I think using both is good. Bands offer convenience, especially when traveling. However, the force curve of a band is not optimal for hypertrophic development. Optimal hypertrophy happens when maximal tension is applied when muscle is in the elongated state. Bands exert maximal tension in the maximal contracted state. This is opposite the latest meta analysis findings. There are many studies that demonstrate this effect. So, I think bands have their place. But I would not replace weight training completely for bands.
Pretty fair and reasonable assessment of resistance bands. Personally I wouldn't call them a scam but some of the marketing, particularly the X3 Bar, is utter nonsense.
I used the X3 bar for 3 months and lost strength across the board (and some size as well). The claims that it is 3x better than weight training as well as the claims that "weight lifting is a waste of time" are laughable. Quite frankly I got far superior results from a basic routine of weighted push ups, dips, pull up variations, squats and deadlifts than I ever would have seen using the X3 exclusively.
Can you get a decent workout, get in better shape, lose some weight, look better and maybe build some muscle with the X3? Sure, but the claims that you can build more muscle in less time using the X3 than with weight training is detached from reality. The X3 has been out for 4 years now. If it legitimately built muscle 3x faster than weight training as claimed then guys who put on 30-50+ lbs. of solid muscle over that time (as Jaquish claims to have done*) should be so common place as to be mundane by now and yet we clearly haven't seen that happening.
*In repeated interviews Jaquish has gone on record stating: “I gained 60lbs. of muscle while losing 16lbs. of fat using the X3 exclusively while in my 40’s and without drugs”
Since he states that he currently weighs 220lbs. that would mean that he would have had to weigh 176lbs. when he started using the X3. Do any of his “before” photos even remotely look like he weighs only 176lbs.? In his "before" pictures he is no way anywhere close to 176 lbs.. He's easily well over 200 lbs. and was probably in the ballpark of his currently reported weight.
I understand that the guy is trying to sell product but this goes beyond creative ad copy and stretching the truth into the territory of outright fabrication.
Thank you for sharing all of that. This is why I wanted this video, so everyone can see the wide variety of responses I often get with regards to bands.
I love my bands, but have started incorporating free weights as well. I think the problem is that people use the cheapest ones they can find on Amazon and they are no where near the quality of ones like Harambe, Serious Steel, Clench, etc.
I hear you. If I’m honest I actually use both the cheap (more stretchy) alongside more expensive ones.
@@hybridresistance I went back to my Undersun bands for a bit before progressing to Clench. I had been using Harambe and while they are awesome I find myself preferring the 41" bands.
I use Powerblocks (adjustable dumbbells) and a Gorilla Bow with heavy resistance bands. I’m 64 and this is all I really need to maintain strength. I also walk a few miles each day.
I love it my friend. That's a solid mix right there for overall fitness. Thank you for sharing.
I'm in my mid-50's and I have the Total Gym FIT, which I got from QVC, about two years ago and also use the Iron Infidel bands, and do a lot of body weight exercises and I get more than enough out of that to get in a good workout and for me it gives me everything I need. I enjoy working with the bands but the key with bands is to have constant tension on them so you're better off having some accessories like a door anchor or something that you can loop the bands too where you can start off a movement with some tension and if you can do that, you will get a nice workout in for yourself. I know the knock on bands is that they eventually wear and you need to replace them but when you look at it, if your band set can last you two to three years you can always buy another set for under $100 so the prices are still reasonable for a good set of bands. Workouts are what you make of them whether it's weights, machines, or bands.
Thanks Stevie. I just saw that they've since changed their name to "Iron Patriot". I think you hit on a bunch of valid and important aspects towards being realistic and getting the most out of bands.
@@hybridresistance the Iron Infidel website still has the bands as "Iron Infidel" not sure if they changed their name or if Iron Patriot is another company selling on Amazon, either way, they give me a great workout and I enjoy working out with them. At my age, it's not about looking big or anything like that, it's just being fit and getting your body moving and the perks are people think I'm 10 years younger than I really am. lol. Keep up the great work with the videos!
Heres a band hack apply armor all rubber and trim protectant to preserve life of bands..people need to think more logically bands create friction and heat as there stretches and flexed...the armor all negates that and protects the integrity,
Bands have a place in my workout regimen. They were my primary tool as I recovered from 4 major surgeries in 2.5 years. Now I am in the gum nearly every day and prefer weights. However, bands are great for travel and those days when I can not get to the gym.
In my experience, hypertrophy is alive and well with bands. An intelligent combination with body weight and maybe some free weight exercises will give even better results. Resistance bands can also be liberating. I train at home during the week, when the gym is too crowded, and go to the gym during the weekend when I have more time and there are fewer people.
That sounds like a solid plan. I have to do a poll on my channel on how many people are just working out from home or also supplementing with a gym on certain days.
After using x3 for about 9 weeks, I'm going back to free weights. I do like it, especially for travel but I get better gains on the barbel.
Thanks man. I know you were one on the channel that gave it shot for sure. Heard plenty of stories of people saying as much. I think it's great to hear all of your experience to help other viewers hear others experiences.
I stuck it out longer with the X3 (3 months) but also went back to weights as I found the results to be far superior. Quite frankly I got far better results with a basic routine of weighted push ups, dips and pull up variations than I did with the x3.
@@Johnl1800 Only thing I could see was a slight improvement in my arms. I'm in the x3 cult I mean Facebook group. Most of the transformations were people losing weight and u saw their muscles. I believe Jaquish build his frame using free weights.
I trained in a gym before so I know a thing or two about free weights. I did bodyweight training too. And almost 6 months ago I started using only bands cause I don't have a gym near me and I can't afford buying a home gym not even the most basic of them I also have no space for a home gym. I have a couple of cheap bands and some diy's like a foot plate and a door anchor and so. I made some gains and I'm really happy with the results. They're better than nothing and that's the most important point. I can afford them. I love how they push me to be more creative to be able to do some exercises. They're not better than free weights but they're not worse by any means. You can build muscles with them you can maintain a healthy body with them. I love free weights but I also really love bands. In conclusion resistance is resistance as you said and you can find a way to over load your muscles with bands with some brain work.
Great comment showing a practical situation where bands can pay off.
I'm 71 and use both,Still use straight barbells for curls and thick tubular bands for other movements.Exercising is always evolving and its good to change routines. Been at it for 35 years and just for general well being and fitness.
Thanks for sharing all of this!
I think a major point Skyler King covered was that there are exercises that are amazing with bands since the resistance curve works well with it. It helps cover the opposite resistance curve to free weights.
Combining free weight training and resistance band training will cover both sides of the muscle strength curves, giving you a fuller adaptation to resistance curves.
I love doing Dumbell bicep curls to really work the lower to mid portion of my biceps best and later do some barbell and resistance band bicep curls to really hit the mid to upper portion of my biceps. Sometimes I'll do it in reverse. But my biceps feel like they can handle both fixed weight and variable resistance better by using both training methods.
Same for chest, back, leg and other movements. Both are good and best combined.
Its like cardio is good, so is strength training, and combing some of both is ideal for most well rounded athletes. It doesn't need to be one or the other.
Well rounded people are often the most adaptable and thus more happy over all in my experience.
Thanks Taylor. I think weights and bands compliment each other perfectly.
Maybe they're called resistance bands because of all the resistance to using them from the stack and rack free weight crowd.
We ain't all young guys out here in fitness land, and some of us like our vertebrae and ACL to stay healthy. Bands provide the challenge without the collateral damage.
I think they have a less chance of error for a few reasons, but I don’t they’re totally joint damage free. My friend Stevie Richard’s made a recent video where deadlifts with bands mess up his back bad. I also had times where I’ve overdone it with bands
@@hybridresistance This seems to be my experience as well with bands. I've worked out with bands only for 15 years due to personal reason after being fairly an advanced lifter for many many years. Immediate joint aches I used to have went away along with muscle size when I switched to bands but then after a few years of doing it, I started having lower back pain and pain in my trap muscle chronically. Reccently I have finally switched back to weight training and the pain ALL went away even with heavier weights, and of course muscle size is coming back too.
Great video. I’m one of the older people who likes bands so I can work at home. I have limited space and I’ve found I don’t using “community” exercise machines at the gym. I’ve really enjoyed the X3 Force bar and the easy way to measure results. Your observations about the benefit of the shorter bar have definitely been spot on. Keep up the great work.
Great to hear Andrew. I get the benefit of hearing all sides from what people prefer and what works for others.
Well said @andrewmeyers1853. I am 63 years old and like this video stresses, I use them and continue to mix it up with weights etc... The part I love about Mike, is I hope most people catch, he not only stresses trying new eqipiment, but his message is you need to mix up what you are doing to stay interested and continue to have fun while working out as well. Like a lot of people, I bought the X3 system and have no regrets at all. Yes, Mike is smack dab on regarding the shorter bar.
Thanks my friend. I sometimes miss this replies on replies messages.
Mike can’t you say the same for E machines ? Like the Tonal or Speediance Gym Monster ?
@@rambojohn7118 I cant remember everything I said in this video, but I want to say “yes” only thing is that the e machines don’t have the cult following like bands do. Most people that use those I assume are doing for practical reasons.
I got injured and believe bands are for rehab 100% imo. I switch from free weights to bands and it does not build muscle longterm but it’s greatly helped my stability. I last a huge amount of muscle mass strictly doing bands but my joints do feel better compared to free weight training.
Bands have been around since early 1900s, they have been proven exclusively for over 125 years..some of the best physiques have been built from rubber exercisers, no in this day and age has imparted nothing new, and most don't even go to the original source of the ones who came before and wrote master courses on how to employ these protocols..I will say bands have angle of pull and biomechanical alignment and position to activate and recruit muscle properly, along with tempo and breathing mechanisms, bands I will admit are not to be pulled the same way we do weights and that's where in lies the difference you have to know band pumping techniques, which are critical to achieving the benefiets, and the little books and manuals that come with them are b.s and very lacking in proper instruction...bands absolutely can be a standalone protocol..resistance is resistance..tools actually have nothing to do with my muscle as activation..the base level is understanding mind muscle connection..contraction and relaxation and turning muscles on and off, biomechanics amd kinesiology..most fitness instructors fail to teach the most basal knowledge of muscle physiology..the truth is you don't even need tools or apparatus for base physique and strength..one must learn from within internal to manifest external..don't blame tools or apparatus for non results or results or lack of efficiency, if you don't know how to channel internal connections all for is naught...remember it this way whatever external resistance you come against don't you first must internally brace and activate muscles to take on the load..the muscles must be preloaded and fired up in anticipation of the load..the load doesn't work the muscles..the muscles work the load and recruit more fibers to compensate and then they learn to fire and recruit more efficiently enabling a larger production of force, which in terms enables one to effort against higher or heavier Resistance.. basically involuntary resistance allows a voluntary contraction of muscles to support or move the load...basically we're already very strong out the gate..we just have to volitionally tap into it
I'm 50 years old and I've been working out for 4 years using nothing but bands and some accessories (not the gimmicks though, just some simple accessories and my creativity in coming up with movements). I am noticeably more muscular than I was before I started but I do wonder if I would have put on more muscle if I had been using free weights. The reasons I've been using bands are money and space - I have little of either, lol. I have decided though that since I've proven my dedication to working out, I can justify the expense of free weights (I'm looking hard at the Iron Master system as I think I can fit it into my space). My point though is to say that yes, even if not optimal, you absolutely can build muscle with bands and they're a good option if your situation doesn't allow for free weights.
Resistance bands are so versatile. I used to think they were just for physio, but as you demonstrate, Mike, they're a great tool in the toolbox for a full workout.
Thanks Jay. What other stuff are you using?
@hybridresistance my bicycle in the Spring Summer Fall and of course my Total Gym Fit!😂
I've added the resistance bands to it like you showed us and all of your recommended accessories.
In my pretty basic home gym, my biggest pro for bands is that I train HIT @ a faster pace than average so 2 or 3 band exercises means much less equipment changes while training.
How long have you been doing that now Brian?
@@hybridresistance High intensity for a few decades, mostly at gyms. Bands mixed in since the pandemic. Probably would have never used bands if not for gyms closing. I like gym and home gym combo. I prefer legs at a gym. Push and pull I can do @ home (free weight, bw and bands).
Thank you for the video. Are you going to review the Resistance Band Bar by Sportneer ? It has an interesting new design that I haven't seen in others products.
Thank you. I have seen this, but for the price and what I'm seeing I don't think it's worth the cost. But I will look into it some more.
I love using bands especially for my home workouts along with mace and kettlebell work all great at home for working out and saving space. Bands help create variety in your workouts and a way to keep trainingi if your insured, traveling or just can't get to the gym less stress on your joints I'm 62 now so having ways to keep trainings the older i get is reality important. I especially like doing lat raises and rear delts with the bands but overall i think it's better to use various types of equipment. Great video 😂
Thank so much Sam for sharing that and watching
I have a travel kit that includes a Tribe bar, your board and loop bands. I never worry about looking for a gym on a trip.
i am introducing them into my home gym workout. I also have barbells and dumbbells and bench press bench but i have no squat rack to place barbells after squats which makes it unsafe to perform. Since my goal is a healthy physique that is not focused on mass, I was positively surprised at how much I was able to contract certain muscles (back) without the engagement of biceps. the contraction was very clean and noticeable and spot on. I do not have a degree in exercise science but judging from how it feels, i think they should be part of the training protocol. I would recommend them ( buy different levels of resistance and different types of bands) to those like me who work out at home and who want a healthy back and overall well proportioned physique. You can do back extensions with them. How cool is it that you can perform exercises at home for which you would otherwise need a piece of equipment costing from 300$ and over? Maybe you get more tension in a typical gym setting in a rep for rep comparison but you can always increase the number of reps to increase the time under tension. Resistance bands may cost at around 40$ each (loop,high strength level) and 23$ for lite level loop bands. I think it's worth using them to complement rather than replace weight training.
Learning more about exercise the one thing I learned about my body is it prefers workouts where I use my body. With bands I can work more movements into compound exercises that won't jack me up, they're just more forgiving. Gravity isn't a factor and some movements I can't do with weights, not as safely anyway. There are more immediate ways mid exercise to make anything harder. If the bands are across your back or shoulders for squats, then them stiff arm or do squat shoulder or front presses. I feel they do a lot more for stability because it's not a weight I'm trying to balance, it's my body itself. It's not this static weight I'm feeling. With bands I only feel my body, I can tell before doing most things my form sucks because I feel the suck. That makes doing holds a lot easier too, finding the right position with a load isn't a bodily risk. Can experiment with angles without worry, we can feel as something isn't meant to move "that way" before we're screwed.
Lately I've been varying my timing on squats going super slow or holding in either position. Whatever I do, with bands it's more stable because it has to be. At some point it just feels like my body is heavy and it'll want to be in the proper position not just me getting into it. It's a different kind of locking out, more natural. They'll always have an advantage in being able to fit with most of the mechanics of how the body is supposed to or can move. The limiting factor for weights is their load is only effective downwards. But their advantage is overall load. Bands can't get that heavy. Bands make working out fun and more interesting, I can make up or add a movement in the moment. If there wasn't a more perfect tool for getting a squeeze too. For example some of the poses people do to flex or pump their chest, throw a band in there and it's a workout. The very nature of band gives more of a real pump feeling, smoother anyway. A person can be more deliberate and minute. With a few additions a cable and fly machines are useless. For me it's not about getting big, I was fat I'm good on big, plus big means eating more. Bigger meals or more frequently.
@@Whatisright love what you’re saying here brother. I actually made a video somewhat related to this that many of the advantages of using resistance bands are that they force you to use lighter loads and go at a slower pace to get the most out of them.
@@hybridresistance Thanks, I hope I didn't sound like I was attacking. It was supposed to be a simple comment, turned into an essay.
I started working out with resistance bands a couple of years ago, and I was probably (at that time) an all-in person. I was 100 percent resistance bands after reading up on them and some of the research, coupled with the promotion by a few brands. I still used resistance bands on a regular basis, but mix it up a bit with bodyweight, suspension training, and kettlebells. The resistance bands are still probably my favorite tool because of the variety of exercises and how I can adjust them, but I love mixing them in with other types. I’m a home workout person, so I don’t go to the gym, and the resistance bands are convenient as well as practical. Are they effective as free weights, I think that depends on your goals. If you’re looking to push your one-rep max or something along those lines, then definitely free weights are the way to go. But if you’re like me (in my mid 50s) and looking to enhance your physical fitness (I enjoy running as well), then resistance bands definitely have their place. Like you said, they’re another tool in your tool box, and for me it’s one I use quite a it (at least three times a week). I’m not a big guy, never will be thanks to my genetics, but I do believe consistent use of bands have helped me get a bit stronger. I’ll continue to use them and mix them in with those other tools I previously mentioned. Consistency is probably the big thing when it comes to working out, and if resistance bands help me, or anyone, be more consistent than I’d say it’s a pretty worthwhile product.
Really appreciate that detailed breakdown Daniel. I think the majority are in your practical situation and rationale behind band use.
I think it comes down to the saying "It's not what you got but how you use it." And I think the people who tend to rag on bands are the diehard Meatheads who walk around thinking they're in a bodybuilding competition. Most people are just happy being in good shape and physical condition. So if resistance bands can help people accomplish those goals then good on them.
You got a good point that for basis aesthetics and "being in good shape", I think the vast majority have no problem with the realistic expectations from bands.
Always love your open minded attitude as far to many online trainers have the belief that it's their way or we're all idiots. Great video as always.
Thanks Lou. Always appreciate you. You’re probably like in that you can still be a fan of a product but also be realistic about it.
Bands have come a VERY long way in the last decade. Not a scam at all.
I have used bands for decades as a supplement to the iron and they have real uses. Every Westside powerlifter has used them in the three lifts, and I see almost no difference
in using some thick bands for exercises compared to using a Nautilus machine. Hitting the iron for a couple exercises and finishing with bands for a pump is a powerful
combination.
Obviously those guys knew what they were doing and were likely the pioneers of showing bands earn their spot in the resistance training world
Geez! Resistance bands have come along way. When I was growing up and working out I used bicycle tubes for resistance bands. Great video ! All I know is as I get older bands or.more than heavy enough for me and give a great work out.
Hi Hybrid resistance, I don't why people are getting so upset bands are just tool like weights but weighty are proven to get you big and thick. Where bands seem better for conditioning with some strength gains. Nonetheless, bands are very effective when using often which is where I find its advantage over weights because it's portability and you can use them as much as possible to 3 to 4 times a day where weights you have to have access to them home gym. And of course you have the difference from bands and weights with variable resistance which is a big part of what bands are all about variable resistance. But there's no doubt that both of them weights and bands and any other form of training bars calisthenics any other little gadgets you may be using all good for training. 0:02
Amen to that Wilfredo.
My main form of resistance training is my Total Gym. However I do use bands mainly for leg exercises (along with the squat belt). I'm 66 so the Total Gym and bands are all I think I really need.
Thanks Joe. Those two pieces definitely compliment each other.
I’ve been working out for over twenty years. Belonged to NYSC to Equinox. I currently live in a building with two gyms. Got my Harambe system two months ago. I don’t even workout in the gym anymore. You absolutely don’t need a ton of equipment to put on muscle. Muscle doesn’t know the difference between weights and resistance bands. Resistance is resistance.
what size resistance bands do you recommend?
I'm partial to the standard 41 inch bands. But serious steel also makes good 37 in bands. Code "SBT" will save you $ as well.
I understand what you're saying yeah it's possible to lose strength and mass I personally have never use resistant bands only in the beginning yes I would use the bands only for certain things and and not wait but now I'm using weights but I still use the bands for finishing an exercise like my chest and also to like warm up my chest before I start doing my other warm-ups to hit the workout for my chest as well as for my back and I feel a rock solid hard-ass burn so it definitely does help and and then you can do certain things with bands that you cannot with weights like certain types of range of motion so that you can warm up without actually holding something that's heavy even though 10 lb or something like that may not be very heavy to some people but depending on what kind of warm-up you need for certain body parts like with me my back is extremely essential the bands work nicely cuz I can just walk around the living room as I'm warming up my back if I'm bored just standing there I'm obviously with weights depending on what exercise you're doing you're kind of like locked in a specific position and you can't walk around you've got to stay in that position until you're done
Mike, I think you made some really great points and I find your pragmatic voice of reason to be very refreshing. One thing I’d like to add is that we live in a consumerism culture - youtube is for the most part a sales and advertising engine and I think many folks having separated from their hard earned on the latest and greatest piece of equipment are just looking for that social reassurance that they didn’t make a bad call and waste their money!
Personally I think mixing it up with different equipment and modalities is a great way to ratchet up the heart rate, keep the body guessing and keeps things interesting. I’ve narrowed in on Total Gym GTS, Total Gym Rower,, Harambe System, free weights, hacksquat machine and using your videos I’ve been finding fun ways to mix up with plates, bands and dumbells. Could I have made the same ‘progress’ ( in my case) with bands exclusive or Total Gym exclusive… I think if I had absolute discipline , yeah, no doubt. However the thing is, I think i’d get bored easily so the mixing it up, stops my body from getting bored and keeps exericses fun and interesting and something I look forward to, rather than a boring daily routine where I feel like every day is a repeat of the prior day. Just my 0.02. Keep up the great work and hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday.
Thank you so much Tom as usual for a great detailed comment. You and I, I believe are not same page about having tools that keep things interesting in the home gym. I can see where bands would be perfect for what some people are looking for and they may not want anything else, but adding in a thing or two help compliment wouldn't hurt.
OKAY SO I'VE BEEN USING BODYLASTICS FANS FOR ABOUT 11 OR 12 YEARS!!
First off let me tell you the most important thing about all this I AM COMPLETELY NATURAL I HAVE NEVER TAKEN A STEROID IN MY LIFE!! No enhancements.. this is important because science has showed even if you cycle steroids to put tons of muscle on and you can put 20 to 30 lb of muscle on easily doing any type of real resistance. Once you get to a certain size science has shown you could get back to that size pretty quickly.
So if you hear a person say I cycled steroids a couple of times but haven't did it in 10 years THOSE ARE STILL STEROID MUSCLES!!
KIND OF LIKE a balloon. A little kid can't blow up the balloon represents a regular person. You get that balloon to the dad he stretches it out and blows it up. The kid could probably blow the balloon back up again pretty close to the same size!! But if that little kid never has someone stretch the balloon out for him he would probably never be able to blow it up like that.
Okay now that the steroid thing is out of the way. Because no matter what you do you can only get so big without steroids I don't care what you're doing and what you're using for resistance.
I'm 53 years old now In my younger days until I was about 30 years old I was a personal trainer, as a boxer I taught boxing, Muay Thai and other things even had military people come in.
I always lifted weights.
No matter how hard I tried, using science, slow reps, fast reps, lifting more weight in the stretch whatever I only got so big. And I don't care how much protein I ate either or what workout muscle memory blah blah blah.
After adopting only bands for all these years 11 or 12 I HAVE LESS BODY FAT AND I'M BIGGER THAN I'VE EVER BEEN!! I am more in shape than I've ever been. No pains in my joints or nothing.
I am 6'1 205 lb and I am approximately 10 to 13% body fat which I've done in many different ways.
My measurements are 34 waist, 46 and 1/2 in chest, 16 and 1/2-in biceps, 25-in legs.
And I look very very vascular.
THE KEY TO BANDS? IS HOW YOU USE THEM!! How your form is.
Essentially you want to stretch them out which I can with BODYLASTICS because they have a rope in it once you can't go any further that's your lockout. Make devices off the wall I even have them attached to my bench so you're always working in the strongest range so when you come down you get the most stretch from that band.. Even half reps.
I varry doing fast twitch fast reps, very slow 2 to 5 seconds down even half reps,
I vary everything weekly and monthly.
THE KEY IS ARE YOU SORE! That's all that matters folks when it comes to growing muscle.. You can vary the rep ranges everybody's different. If you're not getting sore and you're not tired. Doesn't have to be horribly sore just so you know you're getting pumped and you're really feel it. YOU'RE GOING TO GROW MUSCLE. And then if you recover quickly you should be working out again hitting the muscle again not waiting.
Every muscle is different on how fast it recovers you have to listen and learn what your body tells you..
I hope this helped Peace out and God bless eventually I'll be making my own channel about this stuff. Putting up pictures and videos
I use them as part of my routine. There is no point being too dogmatic unless your desired goal requires a certain end result.
Great video . I liked that you presented two perspectives of view about resistance bands, but I think the title is a little bit misleading making people think you are hating resistance bands.
i used to love training with bands but i switched off of it and back to weights because i just need to have numbers with my workouts for my own sanity. once technology like the x3 force bar becomes more ubiquitous maybe i’ll revisit it. for now i just use bands when traveling
That's kind of also summarizes another group of comments that I've seen what commented on right there.
I was never sold on bands until I got injured. It took time to find the right groove, movements and resistance but you can definitely maintain and even get stronger with them. I find loops offer the more optimal resistance. I bought a lot of kit around them to make them more weight like though. To the point that I can get just as good a workout as I can from a weight workout. More towards the pump side than the strength side. I'd say they're better for cutting than growing if you're going by body shaping terms.
Thanks for those comments brother. After seeing your in person, I know it's working for you!
I share much of your perspective on resistance bands based on my own experience. As someone who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since adolescence, I have found that in my late 30s, resistance bands provide a safer workout alternative compared to traditional equipment. They allow me to achieve an effective workout, similar to what I experienced with weights, but without the same risks. My goal has never been to maximize muscle size, but to maintain strength, and resistance bands have enabled me to feel just as strong as I did in my 20s. Ultimately, the key is to align your workout approach with your specific training goals.
Will resistance bands be as popular as the TotalGym...and will you see the same results as you age if you only use one of them?
If I had to pick one, it be a total gym for sure. By obviously both compliment each other nicely.
Very interesting, Mike. My biggest issue with bands is that the research shows training at longer muscle lengths is the best use of time. Bands are lightest at this point, and heaviest near lockout where the science says training is less efficient. In addition, bands get easier as the negative progresses, and there is a ton of science on the benefits of eccentric overload.
I've never used a sliding bench trainer so I don't know if that's the same weight throughout.
I do use suspension trainers where it is heavier in the beginning (more body lean) and lighter at the end (less body lean). I suppose bands would be a nice change of pace and hit a little different for the TRX guys. I use suspension training as a change of pace for my Synapse which allows me to max out the positive and the negative. It's so much better than bands it's not funny.
Thanks Parker. I don't think it would hurt to pick up a cheap band set to incorporate with your suspension training. I know I've had a lot people on the channel who commented that are doing just that.
In terms of strength gains, multiple studies and meta analysis have found no real advantage to free weights over bands, and lower levels of Injuries with bands. Note this is in regards to strength gains as opposed to size gains.
The stretched muscle partial reps advantage compared to full range appears to be forsize
I think the biggest real complaint I have about bands is the resistance curve and that they break on me. I have a Baraban chest expander, and that won't break on me, but it has the same resistance curve issues. The thing I think alot of people don't get though is you can still gain muscle even if the exercise becomes fully shortened biased by the resistance curve, you just have to put a little bit more volume in. Like if I use a cable to do a curl instead of a dumbbell I will get sore biceps faster, so clearly correcting the resistance curve helps, but just like the dumbbell curl works despite not being the highest resistance at the longest muscle length.
Great points, thanks for sharing that!
Great video and points Mike!
I see bands as a sort of swiss army knife of training, they are compact, light, versatile, good at a lot of things but not perfect at any one of them. Any form of progressive resistance will yield results whether it is bands, weights, machines, calisthenics, etc, one just needs consistency. So it is important for the individual to pick what they will use consistently.
I am similar to you where I don't like to limit myself to one type of tool, because it keeps things interesting and fun to mix it up, the brain and body likes variety, different stimuli and learning new skills. I would never say that bands are better or as good as weights like some other people as it is comparing apples to oranges, the best tools are those that will be used consistently and keep the user engaged while being aligned with their goals.
Thanks Max. I really appreciate that detailed response. I’m right there with you in all of that.
I lost strength using the X3 one set to failure protocol. I regained the strength doing my own multiple sets with the X3 like traditional weights. The X3 bar is great and very convenient. I use it more often than my rack and barbell which takes 2 to 3 times longer to workout with all the changing of plates.
@@larrylarkin8506 I’m with you. I prefer multiple sets with the device.
Resistance bands are great, but the way they get marketed definitely make them seem to be gimmicky.
However, they work very well and I always will support the honest brands that don’t promote the BS claims (broscience).
I second that for sure.
Hi Mike, i know i already commented on this video but I was thinking if you can do a video on the research on variable resistance and if bands have the same benefit on increasing bone density as well or something like that??
That's been on the burner for a while, there's actually a few reasons why I haven't done that one. I did do a light version here th-cam.com/video/BfH6Cmufa8I/w-d-xo.html
There are some very positive research findings on band use, I'd just hope that such a video would still convey that it doesn't suggest that it's bands vs weights, only that each have their own pros / cons.
Thanks for the video, I really appreciate your common sense approach. I use dumbbells and some body weight at home, which is a problem when I travel. I was considering looking for gyms on vacation then came across your videos. Bands would solve my problem on the road of getting some work in, and that can supplement my existing equipment to get some different movements in.
Thanks brother. We're hitting on the same cylinders.
I would like a barbell rack but im limited since im renting one bedroom at the moment and dont want to bang weights around. I have a pullup bar from baseblocks with rings attached, 90 pound powerblocks, and the harambe k bar system for my heavy compunds. It works. I also have a gym memebership if i want to use weights. Resistance bands might have a high profit margin but thats because its very niche and theres really only a few viable competitiors. Khalid has won 2 place in a competition just from bands. So, i think bands are a valid tool but it would be weird to just use bands because of a religion or something.
I think bands are legit used along with traditional gravity fed weights. I have a small spare room gym with 5-90 lb. dumbbells, bench, chin up bar and a couple sets of bands. I'm in my 60s and mostly use the dumbbells. Bands do have their place and can be easier on the joints. Doing a set of split squats with a 3 inch band for 20+ slow reps (or whatever weight makes your legs cry) is pretty humbling if you truly go to failure and can leave your legs sore the next day. Bands are great for assisted chin ups. I'm in the camp of use whatever you can and squeeze each set as close to failure as possible. Freehand exercises, bands, traditional weights.
A year of bands less than 10 minutes a day (about an hour a week) did far more for me than 5 hours a week for a year, plus the 2 hours/week commute, at the gym doing every machine as well as free weights and then taking a swim and shower after. Saw next to nothing from the gym, yet they charged me a lot of money anyway. Lifting weights is certainly a scam but the real scam are gyms in general. Got to dress for a gym workout, but not at all for bands. Don't need no gym bag or special shoes either, and can't take the gym traveling. I can't think of a single way that weights are better than resistance bands, except that weights are very definitely better for gym owners.
If you look at influencers who aren't selling products but are selling content you see that kettlebells are hugely popular and my thought on that is that kettlebells are simply super accessible to people. In terms of price, space management and also in terms of learning curve and effectiveness as a single piece of equipment. So it becomes very easy for the influencer to have an audience. I always thought that kettlebell content is far more popular than it should be.
Bands aren't popular at all for male content creators. I think the rubber doesn't look as cool as iron but a bigger factor is that we don't have great complete system out there yet that are affordable. You absolutely need a good footplate for heavier lifts and some kind of handle. Ideally that footplate fits also into a cabin size suitcase so you can actually get the probability benefit of resistance bands. Harambe, X3 and Clench are all in the premium price range for now and the amazon products simply aren't there yet in terms of functionality. At least for now. Once we have a compact footplate that can handle 2 heavy bands for deadlifts/squats and a good set of handles that don't elongate the band length too much I think we'll be a lot further.
Hi Mike, as usual a very well measured, agnostic and honest thought from you. Thanks for being able to preserve this approach day in and day out. In latin it’s said “in medio stat virtus” which i attempt to translate as. The judgement which does not fall in to the extremes is the most virtuous. As for bands. I am in with Clench and for many reasons. Most of them are because it’s a serious company (living in a small town in Italy and being delivered the material at super fast speed and incredibly advantageous cost is only one demonstration of that). A broad example is that never in a FREE training session is mentioned a dogmatic superior benefit derived from resistance bands; on the opposite side some of them are performed both with bands and a pair of dumbbells. On my personal experience the advantage of resistance bands has not to be measured vs free weights (i have iron masters adjustable dumbbells), but vs a functional training cable dual pulley machine and they are less effective probably. Albeit the opportunity/ cost and footage is straightforward enforcing the case for at least starting with a resistance band ecosystem and maybe or maybe not at a later stage move on to a big buy on that side. They are still unparalleled for a great warm up and i would say that this alone is a great case for having a set of them at hand. Thanks and best. Emanuele.
Thank you so much Emanuele for the detailed comment and your experience over in Italy! I really appreciate those positive comments as well!
This is the age old super silly argument and the one that many leveled against Arthur Jones of Nautilus many years ago to which he responded very accurately, "What does a barbell do? It provides resistance against movement powered by muscular contraction! What does a Nautilus machine do? It provides resistance against movement powered by muscular contraction, a Nautilus machine IS A BARBELL pure and simple." And Arthur was very correct in this as applying force/tension to the musculature is the stimulus that triggers growth PERIOD! Sorry to say but barbells/dumbbells are NOT magical tools despite what the so called "purists" say, I still use barbells/dumbbells to some extent but they aren't the end all/be all.
Love that quote. I used that same clip / quote on another video
@@hybridresistance YES SIR!
TRT is really good in building muscles that are easily seen. Good Genetics are help. So far overall this system is best for me at this stage of my life, 60. I’m not on TRT of any kind, but use aminos, creatine and a good multi. One meal a day, usually meat. 5’10”, 224, 18” arms.
I would use an X3 bar to keep in shape when I am at home. However I still prefer to use my Total Gym at home. But use what works for you
I am 64 years old and have been only using bands for the past 8 years and have gained more muscle than ever. I have been working out with weights most of my life, since I was 14 years old , you can actually do all exercises that one does with machines and free weights plus a lot more with bands. You can do exercises, depending on who you grab and use bands, that are actually a lot more effective than free weights. Also is not fair that you picked James Garage to show that he is for only profiting from his line of bands. He has been teaching the proper way of using bands way before he started his own line of bands. Also he has never been hiding that fact that you can buy his bands. Thanks.
Hello Mike, i havent seen any updates on the IsoMax. I enjoy isometric holds with dynamic movements.
I've honestly failed on that again. However the last few months my training has been hard with managing time also covering stuff that was coming my home gym. It's one of those things I really just need more time in my workout time to use them how I wanted to. But I know I'll be going back to it again. It's a device that is still unmatched and very cool to say the least.
I love my loop bands, because I can fit whole gym in one bag. Just stay away from accessories. All you really need is gloves and socks/shoes, otherwise it does irritate skin. The only large downside for bands is training legs. Deadlifts are no go for me and I need to do single leg squats, so it extends the torture quite a bit.
I've used weights since I was a teenager now in my 60s I tried bands and use very little weights maybe 10% of my workout is weights and the rest is bands. I get better results with the bands and less joint pain I'm a believer in bands wish I had started using them sooner
used to be exclusively, free weights, then exercise machines now resistance fans, and calisthenics. that’s the progression you make as you age and if you do it properly, you may not gain weight, but you will be more than capable and fit than anyone in your age group and functional strength is far more important than gym strength. what I have realized, and the science proves that as you age, you may need to lift more often but less weight so therefore, resistance bands, probably scientifically will end up making a lot of sense.
My bands help me stay consistent by alternating them with dumbbells, TG, exercise ball, etc. Every workout can be different. I have a thick tube I bought in 1986 and it shows no signs of wearing out.
I want to know what company that is!
Hey Mike! Love your videos as always man! Quick question. Have you ever heard of the Beckford Bar? If so, do you think you would be interested in doing a review on it and maybe seeing how it compares to the Iron Chest Master? As always keep up the good work brother!
I haven't heard of that one, but I will look into that. Thanks so much!
@@hybridresistance thank you man!
As someone who’s watched your backlog of videos, you were a proponent for using bands (that’s how I found your channel). Now you’re on the fence? And all throughout this video you’re using the X3. I don’t feel like bands are a scam, but rather do what they’re designed to do. And yes, I use bands and free weights. Anyways, thanks for the video.
I don't know if you watched the whole video, but I'm not on the fence at all. I'm literally showing some workouts in the back of the video that I was doing. Only giving feedback (based on the many comments, discussions with companies, and personal use) on what I the state of resistance band use. My basic summary is there "another tool in toolbox". As much as I love them, I would never use them for the my sole source of resistance training. Also on the channel I shared how it was really the x3 (or band board set ups) that I rekindled my interest in bands. I appreciate you watching as always brother.
@@hybridresistanceI hold your channel in very high esteem! Keep up the great work! BTW, it was your channel that solidified my purchase of the X3, a purchase I do not regret.
@@gambitshotshadow1643 thanks my friend.
Hi, your channel is very informative, added sub and like. I wanted to know if you've come across and tried the Torrobands. Thanks.
I have not. I certainly have heard of them, but I'm mainly a fan of loop based bands though.
I have resist bands and the X3 bar system.
I only use them because I'm always on the road. But I would definitely use free weights and resistance band combos if I had the chance.
Both compliment each other.
What I like about the bar and foot plate systems is you can do compound movements from such a simple tool that can be easily carried around.
Like everything bands have a place. Resistance bands are the go to for rehab after surgery not to mention you really have to work at it to cause a injury using bands. Weights and bands together I believe is a great combinations and as you age the bands become a bigger part.
Dogma is a terrible idea. At the same time, getting very familiar with certain tools and learning how to use them in a specific context can be better than being completely unfocused. I like bands, have a cheap Amazon type setup with various cable straps and attachments to facilitate some movements. I particularly enjoy adding band resistance to Calisthenics exercises to make them more effective and or efficient. But that is only because I don’t have time or interest in a commercial gym or gym culture, so I prefer to have some simple tools at home and make the most of what I have.
I love bands but still use weights as well as the speediance gym I recently purchased. I think you summed it up well, they are just another tool in the shed. There are definitely some band exercises that are my favorites and best of all I can take them anywhere to workout. I think their weakest point is tension in the stretched position which many are now saying builds the most muscle. Thanks for the video!
I do love my Gym Monster. That's actually a topic for another video
Jusy got the full Harambe K set. First thing i noticed is the start position of squat and deadlift are both the easiest when with real weights its the hardest(for most people). Like zero resistance till your halfway up from a squat. Anyway...itll fill a need.
Definitely true. I do love band d-lifts but when you go back to real weights, you get humbled pretty fast.
Did you ever come across Power Reels a few years ago? Low weight constant resistance item in 3, 5, & 8 lbs. Theyve almost disappeared now, but they might be in this category.
I actually never saw that one.
How is time under tension a scam? Capitalists inflating margins is different than something being ineffective. Soccer players and speed skaters don’t have big legs cuz squats man, it’s time under tension. Look up shuttle MVP, better then any leg press on the market
If you dont thinks bands are are a good alternstive to weights, I suggest using them for stretching and warm up sets before hitting weights or after. It fixed my shoulder pain and its improving my knee pain. Some NBA players and other athletes train with bands to reduce injury risk. They are also great for traveling
Bands also helped me improve on pull ups and chin ups
Free weights are better; however, something beats nothing any day. In a perfect world everyone could have a gym membership and always have time to get there or better yet have a fully equipped home gym. I have dumbells barbells and kettle bells but my heavy bands help me use really heavy resistance.
Thanks for another good video. There are many tools in the tool box, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It's silly to dismiss a potentially useful tool without trying it out. My use of resistance bands has been mostly limited to adding extra resistance to my Total Gym exercises. I find using bands by themselves cumbersome because I'm focusing too much more on keeping my body anchored than on doing the exercises well. I may have to check out the X3 system because I can see how that type of system could make bands much more pleasant.
Thank again Kris for watching. I definetly think people should give it a go. Pretty much everyone I've given bands to in person were surprised how good and versatile they were. The next question inventively is, "can you just use these instead of weights?"
Resistance bands build muscle in the same way as free weights do. They offer resistance that your muscles fight against.
"It should be noted that scientific studies in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research have found that there’s no significant difference in muscle recruitment when it comes to resistance band training vs traditional weight training, and that both offer similar benefits for muscle growth and building strength."
"Your muscles don't care what tension is put on them. Whether your pulling on a band, pushing a car or lifting a weight , your muscles senses it as tension .And tension in general produces growth
Anything that takes the muscle close to failure will allow for hypertrophy.”
I enjoy using bands for shoulders and arms, but I dont find it that effective for chest. Adding bands to my total gym definately makes it more challenging. I have seen much more improvement ever since adding them, and its even more challenging adding weights in combination.
I've heard that from many people about the lack of stimulus from bands. I think you're right in just finding another tool for that job. Aside from arms and shoulders, back would also be my other body part I think bands work great for.
I love bands because they are the one resistance system that has not caused me shoulder and elbow pain over the years. I can work out 4-5x per week with zero joint pain.
Personally im in my mid-late 60s. Over the years in my middle age i got into working out . In and out of gym's. I have bad shoulders now more with my current age. As a kid? I played outside a lot and in some youth sports like pop warner football or little league other types of sports . I was a skinny kid and as a young guy in my 20s 30s and early 40s . Then i thought what the heck got into the gym and started to do the routines that are the standards sort of speaking. Then? About 3 years ago in a gym here i saw this kinetics like cable band devise thing that i never saw before. I gotta say that really changed off the bat for me the band resistance trainning thing and negative stereo type thinking. Even though i now as a senior here have a feee gym membership? I now use the bands . For me? Having even a little muscle mass but not bulk? Good range of motion and daily strength to function daily is great. Im not out to be a Arnold Schwartzengar or Sly Stallone . Nope just your mild mannor older guy who can function daily and even with mild shoulder discomfort? I feel im blessed to have my resistance bands and for me ? They help.
@@vincentparlante6274 thanks for sharing all of that.
Nice video. I think people over analyze fitness and get lost in the weeds. Anything that taxes your muscles and make them work is going to benefit you. Your muscles don't know what you are using to create resistance.
Over the years I have used pretty much everything out there and pretty much every modality there is in fitness. They all worked as long as I put in the work and stayed consistent. I'm not going to say any one piece of equipment was really that much better than any other piece. They all have their positives and negatives and none of them are perfect.
Great reflective points!
Pre-exhaust band supersets with free weights are great.
I know we're talking about influencers and equipment/gyms, but I'd stock up on those Neleus tanks alone if I could look like you.
Those tank tops honestly hold up very well for being some cheap amazon clothing. Thanks for the positive comment brother
@mike, are you using the X3 bands for that triceps exercise, or a shorter band? Trying to replicate that but it hangs lower than the pasties on a 70 year old stripper.
I'm using their ParaForce Bands which are 41 inch. I usually have to go heavier with the black, but certainly a shorter band 37s from serious steel or 38s from harambe are also good (got some discount codes in the description box). But I'm weird when I use my x3 and like continuity of using their bands. But the ParaForce as those are much better than their stock bands.
I wonder if you're not setting up right. Here's video on what I'm doing th-cam.com/users/shortsRxY-C8PYF0k
Depending on your goal, you just want to work out 3 days a week Real quick.Than exercise bands aren't bad. I just Replace my bands. They were seven years old. I'm going to start mixing them in with free weights and machines. Just to change some things up. The strength curve on exercise bands are not that good. With biceps, I'll do a quick set of cable curls Super setted with exercise band curls just To change things up