21 Best Resistance Bands Tested & Compared
The best workout bands can be used for more than just exercise, they are also great for therapy. Whatever you plan on using them for, it’s important that you find a product that meets your needs. We’ve listed several different types of fitness bands that offer a variety of different benefits. Read through our resistance bands reviews and find the newest addition to your fitness gym equipment today!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Size
Resistance bands come in a variety of sizes. This can determine which areas of the body it can be used to work out. The size can also affect whether or not the band offers the appropriate amount of resistance. Shorter bands are usually used by wrapping them around your ankles or wrists. Longer bands have a bit more variety of exercises they can be used for, as they can be manipulated around your body or an anchor such as a pole. This allows for a greater variety of exercises to be performed.
Luckily, if a band is too long, it can usually be shortened by knotting it or using a shortening mechanism. Although this will make the band more useful, it does not guarantee that the resistance will be as expected as it could change the dynamics of the situation. However, it’s better to have a band be too long than too short, since as mentioned above you can always make a long one shorter but it’s impossible to make a short one longer. Make sure you follow the instructions for all the items in our resistance band reviews, your exercise books, or recommendations from your physician on how to perform exercises with the bands your purchase.
Versatility
Resistance bands can be created to offer different amounts of resistance to give you the user a multitude of options for your workouts. A wide range of resistances makes the set of bands more versatile and allows you to differentiate your workout to meet your individual needs. Additionally, a set with multiple resistances can be used by a greater amount of consumers, making it a more universal product.
Like free weights, heavier bands tend to be used for larger muscle groups, such as the legs, chest, or back. Bands with lower amounts of resistances are generally used with smaller muscle groups, such as the arms and shoulders. Lower levels of resistance may also be recommended as a starting point for a therapy or rehabilitation program so keep that in mind as you shop. Make sure you follow the advice of your physician when choosing a band for a therapy routine. Some workout bands are color-coded to help the user quickly choose the band with the correct amount of resistance for the exercise they’re doing, while others will actually have the resistance printed on the band itself.
Accessories
Fitness bands are a stand-alone fitness tool. Aside from the band and your body, the only other “accessory” you might need (and it isn’t even required) is an anchor, like a pole, chair, or railing to perform certain exercises.
However, many resistance band sets are sold with accessories. These include storage bags, handles, instruction booklets, and even e-books or fitness DVD’s. Any tool or accessory that helps increase your knowledge of how to use a fitness tool or of fitness in general is a plus in our book, so we ranked products that come with accessories higher than those without. You might not think that it’s a big deal to get a fitness book or workout guide along with your resistance bands, but you might be mistaken. Since working out with bands is something that is new and possibly unfamiliar to most people, it can be really, really helpful to have a guide helping you to get started with this new and exciting way to work out.
Durability
If you are just beginning to work strength training into your fitness routine, resistance bands may be a great way for you to begin. They offer you a way to work and tone your muscles without loading on tons of weight, which reduces the risk of injury while toning your muscles and working the small muscles that are often missed with typical workouts but that your body needs to be strong to be able to perform at optimum levels. They are also a smaller financial commitment that purchasing an entire home gym or squat rack set if you aren’t quite sure if you will work out consistently and get your money’s worth out of the equipment.
However, despite their cheaper cost and high versatility, it can be annoying to frequently replace resistance bands because they fall apart after only a short period of time. For that reason, you should consider the durability of your resistance bands just as much as you would consider the durability of your shoes or other fitness equipment. For that reason, all of the products listed here have been judged based on how well they stand up to regular use.
Value
As with all of our buying guides, we like to remind you that as important as price is, price alone does not determine value. All of the factors we've already mentioned: size, versatility, accessories, and durability, combined with price, all come into play when determining the overall value of a product. Like our parents always like to tell us, you get what you pay for, and this is as true of resistance bands as it is of any other product. The last thing you want as a consumer and exercise fanatic is to buy something just to save a couple of bucks, only to have it quickly break on you and need to be replaced. Not only is this a waste of money because you'll have to buy a replacement product, but it's a waste of time as well, because you'll have to do your research all over again (hopefully you learned your lesson and pick a better one next time!) and then re-order another one online or drive to the store. All of this costs you extra money and time, and these days everyone knows that time is money. So just do us all a favor and buy a quality set of workout bands from our list and get it right the first time.
Best Workout Bands and Fitness Bands
1. Fit Simplify Resistance Kit
If you are looking for quality resistance bands that don't cost an arm and a leg yet still provide you with good quality and versatility, these bands from Fit Simplify are the way to go!
Read moreSize
These resistant bands come in a convenient set of 5 and are designed to be easily used. With a convenient size these bands can be used with arms or legs and can be applied to a range of resistant training workouts. Each band offers a different resistant level so you can tailor your workouts however you want or need to.
Versatility
Thanks to the various levels of resistance available these are very versatile resistant bands. You can use them to strengthen arms and legs and a number of other key muscle groups my changing up your workout routine from time to time. These bands are easy to use and are a great addition to your workout gear!
Accessories
This kit comes with 5 different resistant bands as well as a convenient carry bag. You can easily carry them with you anywhere you go making them perfect for home or gym use. You can also combine get an online workout booklet with routine you can add to your sessions as well as videos to follow too.
Durability
The Fit Simplify brand is known for quality workout and exercise equipment and accessories and these resistant bands are no exception. They are made to last and will serve you well for a long time to come. Even if you are using them every day, they will provide quality resistance training each and every time.
Value
These bands are very affordable and with a long life span and very durable design you are sure to get your money’s worth. With a lifetime guarantee you can rest assured you are making a smart investment into your workout gear. Whether you are beginner or a pro with workout bands these are a great way to go.
2. WODFitters
WODFitters’ workout bands are sold individually or as a set. They can be used for assistance, mobility, power-lifting, or stretch resistance. They are especially great for users who only need a bit of assistance when doing pull-ups.
Read moreVersatility
These are sold individually or as a set, so you can determine how many bands you want to have in your lineup of fitness equipment. There is a wide variety of workouts you can do with these and you can also combine bands for extra resistance.
Size
They range from 1/2 inch to 2.5 inches X ~1/16-inch thick and 41 inches long. They are long enough to allow versatility and comfortable for both men and women to use.
Durability
This is an excellent value for good resistance bands. It should be noted that the more resistance the band has, the more expensive it typically is. Unfortunately, some users seem to think they need to be sturdier.
Accessories
This item doesn’t include any accessories and using it is pretty straight forward. They can be folded for easy storage and portability and come in five different colors for different resistance levels.
Value
The price varies fro band to band, depending on the level of resistance. These do cost more than some of the other items on the list but they are also very durable.
3. BodyBoss 2.0
The BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0 is actually a system that contains more than just the resistance cables. The extremely portable and easy to store kit includes everything you need for upper and lower body resistance workouts. The fact that it's a compact system that all stores inside itself makes it perfect for small apartment life.
Read moreVersatility
Versatility is why we really like this system. You can literally unfold it and workout anywhere. The exercises that are possible with BodyBoss mimic many of the routines you would do at the gym with larger equipment. Although it does have its limits, the workouts are effective. You can focus on both upper and body exercises with this system as well.
Size
This is the biggest plus for us. The super portability and compactness of the BodyBoss system is ideal for people living in small apartments or super busy people who travel a lot for a living. You can literally use it anywhere.
Accessories
The kits includes pretty much everything that you'll need to get complete resistance workouts in. There aren't really any add-ons for this one, since this home gym kit contains all you'll need.
Durability
The overall durability seems to be pretty solid. We haven't seen any issues or real concerns on that front so far. Everything stays connected during your workout.
Value
If you're a heavy lifter, then perhaps there isn't a lot to gain from this, other than a little bit of variety in your routine. But if you are trying to gain strength, and are not an everyday gym person, this is a great way to go.
4. Black Mountain Products
If you want a great resistance band kit to enhance your workout routine, then the versatile Black Mountain Products Resistance Band kit is exactly what you have been looking for!
Read moreSize
Five rope resistant bands are available in this set, each one measuring 48 inches in length and offering a different level of resistance: Yellow (2-4 lbs.), blue (4-6 lbs.), green (10-12 lbs.), black (15-20 lbs.) and Red (25-30 lbs.) They are easily used by athletes and runners of all sizes and shapes, making them a good choice for all!
Versatility
Because you get five different levels of resistance with this set you can get exactly what you want and need for your workout. These bands can be used in many ways and can be worked into a range of workout routines. If you want a versatile and easy to use fitness band then these Black Mountain bands are a great option.
Accessories
These bands come with a metal clipping system that allows for easy attachment to the included soft-grip handles or the comfortable ankle straps. You also get a door anchor, exercise chart, carrying bag, and starter guide as well. All of these accessories make it easier to work the bands into your current routine.
Durability
These Black Mountain Products Resistance Bands are designed to last and come with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. They will hold up well to the wear and tear of frequent use and will serve you well for many years to come. The material and accessory components are designed to take what you deal out during your workout.
Value
This resistant band kit is about in the middle range as far as price goes and when you consider everything you get with the kit, it is easily a smart investment for anyone! With multiple straps, different handles and straps, instructional materials and workout guides, and multiple ways to use them, they are an excellent choice.
5. Untold Performance
Heavy bands from Untold Performance are great for squats, as they fit around the thighs for optimal glute workouts. The material holds up well to continuous use, not losing its elasticity and resistance properties. This one is actually a pretty popular band in a lot of gyms across the country as well.
6. Reehut Single
The Reehut Single Resistance Band is a resistance tube band that comes with a door anchor and fitness manual.
Read moreVersatility
These bands are sold individually, so you have complete control over the set you create for your home gym or therapy routine. You can stack them together for extra resistance.
Size
Each band is 3.6 feet/ 43.3 inches long, though the diameter/circumference of the tubing is different for each level of resistance. This allows for more exercise options.
Durability
The resistance ranges from 2 lbs. for the lightest bands, all the way to up to 75 lbs. for the strongest bands.
Accessories
These are made from eco-friendly latex and includes grip handles with soft padding for extra comfort, door anchor, carrying case, and exercise guide.
Value
The prices differ depending on the size of the resistance band you choose, but each product is backed by a two-year warranty and a lifetime of support.
7. Limm
This all-in-one workout product includes five bands at different resistance levels starting at extra-light up to extra-heavy. They are made from 100% natural latex that not only gives you professional-grade performance, but is also odor-free, durable, and elastic.
Read moreVersatility
This comes as a set of five bands at different resistance levels, allowing you to build up your strength and endurance with time. They also retain their shape after long-term use, which means no more pinching or snapping against your skin.
Size
Limm made these to be very portable and compact. They can be folded down and stuffed into a sack that comes with it. It is so compact that it can easily fit in your purse or pocket.
Durability
These fitness bands are made from professional quality material that is meant to last. They are easy to use and backed by a lifetime 100% guarantee.
Accessories
In addition to being a reliable and solid product, it also comes with a lot of great accessories that make this item really stand out. This includes a carry sack for the 5 bands, instruction manual, and bonus ebooks for workouts.
Value
The price for these resistance bands is really great, especially considering the quality and extras that come with it.
8. STRONG
The 321 STRONG Single Resistance Band is a single band for use with assisted pull-ups and other exercises. It can become a staple component in your home fitness equipment lineup or for rehab exercises recommended by your medical professional.
Read moreVersatility
These bands are only sold as individual units. This allows you to customize a set of resistance bands to your fitness needs.
Size
Each band measures into a 41 inches long loop that can be used by both, men and women. The width depends on the level of resistance.
Durability
Each band is 4.5mm thick for extra durability and is made from 100% latex rubber. You can count on it retaining shape for a long time.
Accessories
This has a simple design that doesn’t require handles. It is easy to fold up for storage or traveling and comes with great instructional to get you started.
Value
These are an average deal for “rubber band” style resistance bands. As the resistance goes up, so does the price. The lowest range is 1 - 8 lbs., whereas the highest is 35 - 100 lbs.
9. Fitness Master
Fitness Master Resistance Bands are a tube-style resistance band set that comes with foam rubber handles, ankle straps, a doorstop, and a carrying bag.
Read moreVersatility
This all-in-one set comes with everything you need to work out your whole body. It is strong enough for pro athletes and easy enough for kids to use.
Size
The bands in this set are 52.5 inches long. The resistance starts at 5 lbs. and goes up to 25 pounds. The weight increases in 5-pound increments between bands.
Durability
The bands are extra thick and made from high-quality material to ensure that they don’t snap or break and cause injury. It even comes with a lifetime warranty.
Accessories
There are 5 bands in this set. Additionally, buyers receive foam rubber handles, ankle straps, a doorstop, and a carrying bag, a complete gym at your disposal.
Value
At full price, this is the most expensive item on the list. On sale, it’s a considerably better deal. But overall, it's a good value because of everything you get.
10. TheraBand Professional
TheraBand Professional Latex Resistance Bands are perfect for physical therapy or the beginner fitness enthusiast. Beware of their latex construction if you have a latex allergy.
Read moreVersatility
The resistance goes 3 to 4.3 lbs. (yellow) to 4.6-6.7 lbs. (green). The more the bands stretch, the greater the resistance it provides the user.
Size
These were made for beginner level athletes and for therapeutic use. It is long enough for a wide variety of exercises that help stretch and build your muscles.
Durability
These are made with latex-free materials for patients that have latex allergies and are designed for extra durability. This is great for rehabilitation muscles and getting started with workout bands.
Accessories
There are 3 bands in this set. Each successive band provides the user with 25% more resistance than the previous band. Unfortunately, they don’t come with a carrying bag; users who want one will have to find something to put them in or make their own.
Value
This is an excellent value for a beginner set of resistance “therapy bands.” If users don’t think the resistance level is enough, they can always buy the company’s more advanced set.
11. Tribe
This 12 piece resistance band set is designed for the serious athlete in mind. It includes five tube bands made from the highest grade latex from Malaysia that will not deform, dry-out, or snap. They provide the user with up to 105 pounds of resistance and is a great choice for beginners looking to experienced workout enthusiast looking to improve their routine.
Read moreVersatility
This set comes with 5 tube bands at different resistance levels that can each be used independently or stacked together for maximum resistance. The ankle straps, door anchor, and handles also provide a wider variety of workout options as well.
Size
The double-layered tubes are 48-inches long and very portable. It comes with several accessories, but all can fit in the waterproof bag that comes with it.
Durability
These were designed to maximize your workout experience and are made with 100% natural latex and extra-thick silicone for increased durability. These are a great choice for people who really want to take their routine to the next level.
Accessories
You get everything you need to get a complete body workout. That includes two cushioned handles, two ankle straps, a door anchor, a carry bag, and an ebook that goes over various workout programs.
Value
The cost varies on the set you want. The higher the resistance, the higher the price. Overall, it’s still a great bargain for everything that you get. It’s really a whole gym in your bag!
12. GoFit Power Loop
Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to this option from GoFit. GoFit is a brand with a long line of quality products, and this power loop is no exception. It comes in a few weight varieties to help users engage muscle groups dependent upon their base strength level.
Read moreVersatility
What we liked most about this design is that it is super easy to use. It boasts a super-wide frame that resists slipping and fit comfortably on various parts of your body.
Size
These wide loops come in three different size options. The lightweight design offers 5 pounds of resistance, the medium design offers 10 pounds of resistance, and the heavy design provides 15 pounds of resistance. Each weight option is sold separately.
Accessories
It also comes with a user manual that gives you a lot of ideas about the best exercises to do with this product.
Value< If you are in the market for something that comes from a trusted brand and is very easy to use, this is a great place to start. It is made from quality materials that hold up well over time, and it is offered at a super affordable price point that makes it worth checking out.
13. Rainlin
This set from Rainlin offers a multifunctional set with various accessories to help you get the most out of your workout. Not only does it come with bands of various strength levels, but it also includes quite a few accessories to keep things interesting and exciting.
Read moreVersatility
If you don’t quite know of a low of base exercises to get the most out of this product, this set keeps this interesting. If you need a set that allows you to switch up your workout to build muscle in other parts of your body, this is a great option.
Size
Another thing that we loved about this set is that it is made for those of various strength levels. Whether you are a novice or someone who is no stranger to dumbbells and weight racks, this is the perfect option. Strength levels start out at a mere 5 pounds, and through a color-coded system max out at around 30 pounds.
Accessories
It comes with accessories that include ankle straps, a door mount, and comfortable foam handles. By mounting it to the door, you can stabilize the unit with something other than the bottom of your foot for a more engaging workout.
Value
It has various strength levels so that you are always facing a new challenge, and helpful accessories help to keep things interesting.
14. CAP Barbell
CAP Barbell knows a thing or two about strength training. What we loved most about this design is that it is composed of quality materials that you can feel good about using. It is lightweight and comfortable to use and comes from a trusted brand that makes it worth checking out.
Read moreVersatility
The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it isn’t made from latex like many of the other designs out there on the market. Instead, it is made from ABS plastic for a quality finish. What makes this design different is that buckles along the side of the unit allow the users to actually adjust the length of the unit to fit their workout needs.
Size
It comes in light, medium, and heavy strength options, and the various strengths do not vary much in price.
Accessories
This option also boasts a comfortable pair of foam-coated handles for a nice and easy grip. The foam works to wick away sweat so that the unit doesn’t slip out of your hands when the pressure is on.
Value
If you are in the market for something that comes from a trusted brand and is latex-free, this is a great option. It allows the users to adjust the length of a singular unit, and it comes in at a very affordable price tag.
15. TheFitLIfe
TheFitLife set comes with everything that you would ever need to fit in a really great strength training workout from home. It not only comes with color-coded strength levels that grow with you, but it also comes with a few other accessories to really help you engage all muscle groups safely and effectively.
Read moreVersatility
The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that everything is composed of quality materials and components. All of the connective points, such as where you connect handles and ankle straps, aren’t just held together with velcro. Each connector uses a strong metal loop to ensure that they stay in place while you use it.
Size
The strength of the tubes start out at 10 pounds and max out at an impressive 40 pounds. You can also stack tubes up to 110 pounds!
Accessories
This set also comes with a set of ankle straps, a door attachment, and foam handles for a comfortable grip.
Value
If you are in the market for something that is composed of quality materials that hold up well over time, this is a great option. It may cost a little bit more than some of the other sets that we have seen, but we feel that the added cost is well worth it.
16. Fitness Insanity
This option from Fitness Insanity is another well-crafted set. It is composed of quality materials that hold up well over time and comes with quite a few accessories that help you get the most out of your workouts. It may cost you a little bit more than other options, but we feel that it is worth the extra cost.
Read moreVersatility
What we liked most about this option from Fitness Insanity is that it is designed for those that are already pretty strong.
Size
When tubes are combined it is able to support up to a whopping 150 pounds!
Accessories
We also like that that set comes with a wide variety of helpful accessories to help you get the most out of your workouts. Included with this set is a pair of foam handles that won’t slip out of your hands as you use it, ankles straps, and a door mount. It even comes with a carrying case for easy travel.
Value
If you are in the market for something that is made from quality materials that hold up well over time, this is a really great option. It is also built to accommodate users that are already pretty strong. While it may cost a little bit more than most, we feel that it is worth it in the long run.
17. Letsfit
What we liked most about this design from Letsfit is that it provides users with an excellent value. This wide option is made to hold its place while in use and is designed to trigger a wide variety of muscle groups. Many similar designs are only sold one at a time, but this option comes in a pack of five but is still offered at a reasonable price point.
Read moreVersatility
The wide designs such as this set from Letsfit are great because they really hold their place while in use. These options will not shift around on your legs or arms as you start to work out. It is composed of 100 percent natural latex that has a stretch and movement that you can feel good about.
Size
It comes in a pack of 5 different strength levels. Strengths start at extra light and run all the way up to extra heavy. The downside of this set is that there is no indication of how many pounds each option provides.
Value
If you are in the market for a wide and flat option that won’t shift around on your body and comes in a set of more than one, this is a great choice. This pack of five will set you back around the same amount that you would spend on some of the bigger brands that only sell one option at a time.
18. INTEY
Looking for a set that grows right along with your muscles? This model from INTEY provides options that are perfect for those just starting out, and slowly builds in tension for even the most experienced lifters. If you don’t want to be bothered with buying new products as you get stronger, this set is worth checking out.
Read moreVersatility
It composed of 100 percent latex. While they carry that distinct latex aroma, they are also incredibly strong and tough. You can feel free to stretch this option as far as you can take it without worrying about it snapping on you!
Size
What we loved most about this set is that it comes in a wide variety of weight options. The smallest option provides users with 15-35 pounds of tension. It’s important to note that this may be a little tight for beginners. The highest tension option maxes out at an impressive 50-125 pounds!
Value
If you are in the market for something that can keep up with your bulging muscles, this is a really great option from INTEY. Not only is it built to be tough, but it comes in a few strength options that allow you to switch up your workout as you see fit.
19. Power Systems
Spent all of your money on expensive workout machines and have little left for targeted strength training? This design from Power Systems is incredibly affordable and is something that is built to last. It is super simple in its design, but it is super effective and incredibly affordable.
Read moreVersatility
It is crafted from high-quality materials. The handles at the end of the tube are made from strong and sturdy PVC, so you can feel confident that the material will not snap in your hands as you apply pressure.
Size
We also like that this option comes in a wide variety of size options. Whether you are just starting out or you are an experienced veteran, there is a size for you. Sizing options start out at extra light and run all the way up to extra heavy.
Value
If you are in the market for something that is super affordable that still comes from one of the most trusted brands out there on the market, this design from Power Systems is a really great option to add to your home gym without breaking the bank.
20. SPRI Xertube
If you need something that is built tough for your intense workouts, this is a great option from SPRI Xertube. It is made from super-tough materials that are made to hold up well over time and provide users with excellent tension. Plus, it clocks in at a very affordable price point.
Read moreVersatility
What users like most about this option are that it is super small and compact, and fits easily into a gym bag or tote. It boasts TuffSleeve technology at the connection point of the tube and the handle to resist wear and tear over time which may cause your unit to snap in the middle of a workout.
Size
Size and weight options for this design are slightly more limited than other options out there on the market. Strengths include very light, light, medium, and heavy. There is no indication of how much weight each tube provides, and there is also no very heavy option.
Value
If you are just starting out and want something that is great to take with you on the go, this design from SPRI Xertube is a great place to start. It is composed of quality materials that hold up well over time, and it is offered at a super affordable price point that makes it worth checking out.
21. Elete Exercise
Whether you are a beginner or a little more advanced, this design is a great addition to any home gym. It is composed of quality materials that hold up well over time, and it comes in at a reasonable price point that makes it worth checking out.
Read moreVersatility
This wide and flat option is perfect for those engaging in yoga or pilates. It is resistant to rolling up on your legs and arms as you use it. It is composed of 100 percent natural latex that is free of harmful thermoplastic elastomer.
Size
It is important to note that this option only comes in a pack of one. Size options start out at extra light and run all the way up to extra heavy. Whether you are just starting out, there is a style of band suited for your specific needs. Plus, they come in at a pretty affordable price point.
Value
What we liked most about this design from Elete Exercise is that it is made of quality materials that hold up well over time, and are free of any harsh chemicals. If you are in the market for something simple, easy, and affordable, this is a great option that is worth a look.
Sources
- , Greatist, Website
- , Resistance Training, Health Blog
- , Livestrong, Article
