Elastic Bands for Physical Therapy and Fitness

Elastic bands are stretchable bands commonly used in physical therapy and fitness routines to provide resistance for strengthening exercises.

Elastic Bands FAQ

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Why do athletes use elastic bands?

In other words, the more the band is stretched, the higher its resistance to stretch becomes. Because of this, coaches often use elastic bands to increase an athlete’s strength at the end range of the movement (i.e. the top portion of the exercise), as this is where the bands provide the largest resistance.

Is an elastic band easy to carry?

An elastic band is easy to carry, it's not fragile and it weighs nothing; especially considering the levels of resistance and therefore weight that can be achieved with it, which vary with the type and thickness of the band. The resistance will depend on the level of tension applied.

Are elastic bands effective?

Elastic bands are suitable and effective for the vast majority of body weight exercises; both assisted and weighted. We will discuss them next. They also have the advantage of forcing a certain amount of sheathing and control over each part of the movement "going" and "coming" as they are constantly trying to pull us towards their attachment point.

What are extra-long resistance bands?

Extra-long resistance bands such as this rubber set of four are perfect for providing assistance to pull-focussed bodyweight exercises where your form would benefit from some additional support — similar to an assisted dip machine. These bands measure 81.9 inches, which is ideal for attaching to gym equipment.