The 6 Best Resistance Bands For a Killer Workout Anywhere

ConsOnly five bands can limit exercisesAngelino recommends this five-band set from Clench Fitness, and it's a solid budget-conscious starter pack thanks to its wide resistance range and high-quality construction. Each band is made from layered medical-grade latex for superior durability, and their 41-inch length makes them easy to loop around stationary exercise equipment or poles when working out in the gym or at home.ProsCan be used with or without handlesHandles can work with other resistance bandsIncludes two bands at each resistance levelConsHandles only work with your hands, not your feet or limbsA simple loop-style resistance band can work well for most exercises, but thinner bands can cause discomfort by digging into your skin. TRX has a solution: A pair of cylindrical grips that slide over the bands, giving you a more comfortable way to pull them with your hands.This set includes two pairs of resistance bands, but the handles also work with other loop-style bands, so you can continue using them as you expand your collection.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsReinforced inner safety cordLarge resistance range when bands are combinedConsNarrow tubular design might dig into the skin during some exercisesBodylastics manufactures its resistance bands with a unique design: Stretchy latex surrounds an inner core of woven cord. This two-part construction prevents you from overstretching the band (a major cause of wear on resistance bands), and if it does snap, the cord reduces the chance the band will flail around violently.The bands are made with carabiners to accommodate handles, the set includes ankle straps and door anchors, and the bands can be combined for an impressive resistance range of up to 142 pounds.ProsWide bands for maximum comfortConsLow resistance is less suitable for strength trainingWide, low-resistance bands work well for stretching, mobility exercises, and rehab work, where you want to stay comfortable and focus on the movement rather than really challenging your muscles.These bands from Theraband are ideal for beginners and rehab exercises: Their wide design feels comfortable when wrapped around your legs or arms, and they can be used for all kinds of movements. They're also latex-free.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLayered latex construction for durabilityWide resistance rangeIncludes handles and a door anchorConsThinner bands might dig into the skin during some exercisesThis comprehensive set from Resistance Band Training amps up the traditional looped-style resistance bands with a host of helpful accessories. Its wide resistance range offers a variety of workout options, including strength-training moves (like chest flys and shoulder presses) and dynamic stretching.The Total Fitness Package lives up to its name with three pairs of 41-inch resistance bands plus one mini band that’s ideal for low-resistance movements or adding an extra challenge to bodyweight exercises like squats. Each band has a layered latex construction for optimal durability.Better yet, the package comes with two attachable handles for improved grip and a door anchor, which makes it easy to do chest presses and similar movements when working out at home. Completing the “package,” the set gives you access to two digital training programs to help you get started.There are cheaper sets on the market, but the Total Fitness Package stands out for its versatility and high-quality bands. And with its large range of resistance, it’ll remain useful for a long time, even as you get stronger.More: Level Up Your Ab Workout With These Resistance Band Core ExercisesProsIncludes multiple bands for a wide resistance rangeCotton-rubber construction feels soft and won’t pull on skin or leg hairConsWide design isn’t ideal for upper body workoutsWide fabric resistance bands can help stabilize your legs and add an extra challenge to all kinds of lower body moves, like squats or lunges. This 3-piece set offers a wide range of resistance, enabling you to start with light resistance and work your way up to more intense workouts.The wide design of these bands allows them to rest comfortably against your legs without digging or pinching your skin, and the soft, stretchy fabric stays in place and won’t pull on body hair. Bonus: This set comes with a carry bag for easy storage and an illustrated workout guide to get you started.Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Runner's World and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives. Amy Schlinger is a health and fitness writer and editor based in New York City whose work has appeared in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, The New York Post, Self, Shape, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, and more; The National Academy for Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) is extremely passionate about healthy living and can often be found strength training at the gym when she isn’t interviewing trainers, doctors, medical professionals, nutritionists, or pro athletes for stories.