Resistance band workouts have grown increasingly popular, and for good reason. Bands allow you to get fully body workout without having to lug around heavy weights, buy expensive equipment, or pay for gym memberships. They are also extremely lightweight, so they can be carried anywhere in a gym bag, or used at home in the living room.
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.
