What is a resistance band?

Resistance bands are stretchy bands of rubber. Oftentimes they are tubular in shape. They come in varying thicknesses to provide different levels of resistance. 

What are different types of resistance band workouts?

Almost any exercise which can be done with free weights can also be done with resistance bands. They are most beneficial at helping to tone the triceps, biceps, leg muscles, chest, and back. For a few ideas, consider the following beginning workouts:

• Hold both handles or ends of the resistance band, and place the center of it under your feet. Keep your back straight and feet shoulder width apart. Lift the band slowly so that your upper arms are at 90 degree angles.
• Repeat the first two steps, but instead of lifting to a 90 degree angle, lift your arms over your head while holding the band. Keep your arms straight and steady, and your wrists turned inward.
• Use a pole and wrap the band around it. Stand facing away from the pole to pull the band inward to do presses. Stand facing the pole and pull the band toward you to work different muscles.

For more ideas, you can find resistance band workout DVDs. Or, choose your favorite free weight exercises and alter them so you can use the bands instead.

Where can you find resistance bands?

You can buy resistance bands in most sporting goods stores, department stores, and online from workout equipment supplies. They are relataively inexpensive: with the least expensive being under $20.

Consider the following when making a decision.

* Don’t buy more than you need. Sure, a GPS navigator is a cool gadget to have, but if you’re just running around the block a few times to get a little exercise, it’s probably not entirely necessary. You will probably do better with one of the simpler watches on the market with a heartrate tracker and pedometer. 

* If you a more serious runner looking to participate in marathons or the like, you should choose a watch that has the above mentioned features, as well as a lap tracker and other training devices. This will help you keep up with how far you’ve gone, your average times, and other important information when you’re trying to beat your own records.

* Yes, there is a time when you might need a GPS navigator built right in to your watch. If you’re finding new routes, or if you are running off road without staying on a specific trail, GPS navigation is useful for finding your way back to the main path. One good example is the Garmin Forerunner line of running watches.

Want to go even fancier? Some Garmin, NewGen, and other watches also feature touchscreens and easy to use color displays. Prices vary, but they generally range from under $100 to $300, depending on the features you choose.

Simple Solutions…

If you are on a tight budget or you have limited space around your own, you should go with smaller, simpler, workout equipment. This could include weights to use while doing aerobics to add resistance, a jump rope, or mini trampoline. These are all relatively inexpensive and can fit in small settings. If you are new to working out, they may also be a good way to ease into using exercise equipment. You can also get more complex or expensive equipment later, once you are sure you’ll stick to your plan.

Larger Selections…

There are a wide range of cardio exercise machines you have to choose from. The most popular are the treadmill, the elliptical, and the stationary bike. There are also variations available that combine aspects of all of these things. There are pros and cons to any equipment you may consider, so you should think about your purchase decision carefully.

Treadmill: A treadmill is a machine that allows you to walk in place on a moving conveyor belt. Most are electrically powered, but some are moved by gravity moving against the belt as you step. The latter options are usually a lot less expensive than electronic ones. If you are on a budget, consider one of these. Some treadmills also fold up to fit under beds or in closets when not in use.

Elipitcal: This is a type of machinery that combines the walking movement of a treadmill with a back and forth motion with your arms and legs. You typically hold on to two handles and place your feet in small padded holsters. Then, you move them front and back as quickly as you can. Some allow you to add resistance by choosing harder settings. Most of them do not fold up for storage, but they can be found for reasonable prices.

Stationary Bike: A stationary bike is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a bike that you pedal, but it stays in place. Some have handles that you move back and forth for added movement and calorie burn. You can also choose different difficult settings with a stationary bike to increase the resistance or lower it based on your fitness needs.

When choosing between these, and other, options, you should go with whatever looks like fun. Everyone enjoys doing different things, so what works best for one person may not be the best for someone else. The most important thing about exercising, is that you do it!

Running Shoes

Any ole’ sneakers aren’t going to cut it when you’re out hitting the pavement. Although good for your heart and lungs, running can be straining on the knees and back. You’ll need a good running shoe that is designed with runners in mind. It should have good support for your arches and heels, soft cushioning, and a breathable upper that will let air flow through to prevent overheating.

A good, solid, running shoe will probably be more expensive than basic sneakers or walking shoes: but it’s worth the investment. Luckily, you don’t necessarily have to go with a name brand to find a quality made shoe. You just need to make sure it is well put together and made from good materials. Just remember, though, that your running shoes are the only investment you need to make. Any other running gear is a matter of preference.

Athletic Clothing

You can wear your old sweats while you run, and will probably end up no worse for wear. However, they do sell a lot of good running clothes that you can take advantage of. There are pants that insulate your legs to keep the cold out during the winter months, and loose fitting shorts that will keep you cool during the summer. The best running clothes are designed to move with your body, they keep out the weather, and they wick away moisture to keep your body cool. Always try on your running clothes to ensure a good fit.

Music Player and Holster

If you need a good rhythm and beat as you run to keep up a good pace, you should consider getting an mp3 player or another music device. They also sell holsters that you can wear on your arm so that you’re not holding it the entire time.

Weights

You can add more intensity and en element of strength training to your workout by buying arm and leg weights. These are usually small, soft, and doughnut shaped so they fit around your arms and ankles. Start off with lower weights if you aren’t used to strength training, and then slowly work up to heavier ones.