Benefits of Stretch Bands vs. Workout Ropes
When it comes to deciding between stretch bands or workout ropes (known as undulation workout) for your fitness program, it's best to weigh the pros and cons of each. Stretch bands (also referred to as resistance bands and exercise tubing) will provide great results for you because of their many benefits. This, in turn, will have greater impact on your ability to stick with an exercise program.
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Simplicity
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Stretch bands are light in weight, small in size and can be taken with you when you travel, used in your home, the office or outdoors. Workout ropes, on the other hand, require a large designated space due to their enormous size; they are 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter and come in a variety of lengths ranging from 20 to 60 feet.
Stretch bands are simple because they don't require additional equipment or assembly as is the case with the ropes. The rope must be looped through a strong, stable support base such as heavy kettle bells. You hold the ends in one or both hands and create waves of movement, such as what you would do when shaking out a sheet or rug. Bands are easy to hold, while the ropes could cause hand callouses or splintering.
Cost Effective
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Resistance bands, both basic and elaborate, are far less expensive than workout ropes. This allows you have have a greater variety of bands without spending a fortune. Not only are the workout ropes expensive, but their size and weight will cost you higher shipping rates.
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Variety of Resistance Levels
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Stretch bands come in a variety of resistance from light to heavy and are color coded for recognition. This allows you to perform exercises that are appropriate for muscle size, strength and exercise modality. Workout ropes are big, bulky and may not be appropriate for all fitness levels and people with limitations. Although you can progress from easy to hard exercises with ropes, the resistance level really cannot be changed.
User Friendly
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Stretch bands can be used by anyone from a young adult to the elderly, and come with exercise descriptions and photos. Band exercises can be found online or in books and are easy to understand and learn without the help of a professional. Since the bands are made of rubberized material, people who use them are at low risk for injury. Ropes, on the other hand may require instruction and supervision for appropriate use and may be difficult to find.
Versatility
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Stretch bands can be used for strength training, stretching, mat workouts such as pilates and yoga, physical therapy and exercise routines for those who are wheelchair bound or have limitations. They can be used indoors during bad weather, outdoors with boot-camps, group classes at a gym or at the office for a quick workout.
Workout Ropes are great for athletes or anyone who is looking to increase endurance and strength. The undulation workout with ropes requires the use of your total body, as you need to stand firm, hold your bank/spine in proper alignment and have a strong grip on the ropes.
Fitness Trends
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To make the final decision of whether to go with resistance bands or workout ropes, look at your current lifestyle, budget and what you want to accomplish. The current fitness trend is leaning toward more cost effective and time efficient workouts. After all, you want to be able to achieve and maintain a fitness routine that works for you.
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