Just about everyone could benefit from adding resistance bands into their workout routine. They can be used to challenge people of all fitness levels, from beginners to intermediate to advanced. They can even be used to help assist you when you’re learning harder moves, like how to do pull-ups. And they’re capable of providing similar strength-building results to traditional resistance training with weights, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis from SAGE Open Medicine.
But one of the best things about resistance bands is that if you don’t belong to a gym with free weights or have access to equipment, they can help fill in the gaps in your workout routine. Resistance bands are affordable, lightweight, and easily packable, so it’s easy to bring them back and forth to the gym or with you when you travel. But even though they’re small, they deliver big benefits.
Convinced? If you’re interested in stocking up on your own set or two, we’re rounding up a list of 11 best resistance bands options to try — ahead.
Theraband CLX Resistance Band with Loops ($12)
This non-latex resistance band from Theraband is perfect for everyone, ranging from seasoned athletes to complete beginners. Each band has multiple loops, which make them very versatile — you easily adjust your grip depending on which exercise you’re doing or the level of resistance you want. With a portable, lightweight design, the CLX resistance band with loops from Theraband is a popular choice for healthcare professionals. As an example, use the loops with a bird dog exercise for a little added resistance.
PS Fabric Hip Bands ($15)
These PS Fitness fabric hip bands from Walmart come in a pair of two so you can change up the intensity of your workout with two different levels of resistance. But the main reason we love them is the fabric material. They won’t pinch your skin, nor will they roll down as you move.
Bodylastics Resistance Band Set ($20)
These Bodylastics bands have a unique safety feature: an inner cord running through each band that prevents overstretching and snapping. If you plan to get heavy use out or your bands, this is the pick for you.
EliteFTS Pro Resistance Band Pack ($150)
These resistance bands from EliteFTS are a must-have when investing in a home gym setup. Starting at 25 lbs and up, the set includes a total of eight bands, ranging from pairs of mini, light, average, and strong bands. Although this pack might seem like a splurge, they have a durable design that’s built to withstand training and performance. These versatile resistance bands are ideal for a variety of different exercises, including band rows, squats, or deadlifts, along with terminal knee extensions, stretching, or mobility work.
MoveActive Medium Resistance Band ($22)
If you’re a Pilates princess, you’ll want this resistance band from MoveActive. It delivers no-split resistance, and with six colors to choose from, the band is super cute too. You can even match it to the brand’s Pilates ball and workout towel — and you know we love a matching set.
Centr Resistance Bands with Handles ($30) These resistance bands from the Chris Hemsworth-founded Centr are super versatile. The bands range from extra light to extra heavy, and come with handles, a door anchor, and ankle straps, which lets you use them for a wide variety of exercises.
Blogilates Resistance Bands ($18)
Follow along with your favorite Blogilates videos, and make sure to grab these tube bands. With three different color options, this pack of three bands features light to medium resistance. They’re a great starter option, for when your go-to workouts start to get a little too easy. Use with upper body exercises, like bicep curls, or lower body exercises, like lunges. Designed by Cassey Ho herself, these resistance bands are a great way to challenge yourself when your go-to workouts start to get a little too easy.
Sklz Pro Bands ($20)
These bands from SKLZ are designed for any athlete who wants to add resistance for their next training session. With a simple, lightweight, and durable design, they can be used for a variety of exercises, workout routines, or pre-workout warm-ups.
Nike Mini Resistance Bands ($16)
This three pack of resistance bands from Nike are super, super lightweight and come with their own mesh bag — you can toss them in your purse, gym duffle, or suitcase to always have on hand for when you want to add weight to your workout, but not your bag. We also can’t resist the brand’s iconic logo.
Lululemon Resistance Band Set ($58)
Rubber bands can get tangled in storage and sometimes smell. This elasticized fabric resistance band set from Lululemon, which comes with a low, medium, and high resistance band, is an ideal choice for anyone who isn’t a fan of those issues. It’s also gentle on the skin, if you’re working out in shorts or short sleeves. Choose between a low, medium, or high level of resistance.
PS Fitness 3-in-1 Resistance Band ($20)
Like to keep your options open? Get the most out of your workout with the ever-versatile PS three-in-one resistance band from Walmart. Each set comes with a light, medium, and heavy resistance band, which you can use solo or doubled up to create your perfect challenge.
Jade Esmeralda (she/her), MS, CSCS, is a health and fitness staff writer and a strength and conditioning specialist. A lifelong martial artist and dancer, Jade has a strong passion for strength and conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated with a Master of Science degree in exercise science and strength and conditioning from George Washington University.
