How to Work Out Pectoral Muscles With a Resistance Band

Each color elastic cord indicates a different level of resistance.

Your pectoral muscles, or chest muscles, are some of the largest muscles in your body. When you think of working out your chest, you probably envision bench pressing heavy weights that actually make the barbell bend down on either end. However, working out pectorals--also called "pecs"--is not just for bodybuilders. Strong pecs can boost sagging breasts in women and improve upper body appearance in men even if they are not particularly muscle-bound. In this article, we will discuss how to work out pectoral muscles with a resistance band.

Things You'll Need

• Elastic resistance band

Instructions

How to Work Out Pectoral Muscles With a Resistance Band

1. Hold one end of the resistance band in each hand. Grasp the handles firmly but do not clench your fists.

2. 

   Straighten your arms out to the side. This will cause the resistance band to form a straight line across your back and shoulders.

3. 

   Bring your hands together in front of you. Keep your arms straight and make sure to stop your hands' forward motion just before your hands touch.

4. Bring your arms back out to your sides. The resistance band will be pulling your arms out. Do not let them move too quickly. Control your motions so that they are smooth, slow and even.

5. Repeat this exercise as many times as you wish. Most trainers recommend three sets of 10 to 20 repetitions each.