Resistance Bands vs Weights

C

chunkmonster2

New member
Hey,

Sorry if this post has already been addressed, I tried manually looking for it and searching it but I didn't see it anywhere.

I was wondering if there were pros and cons to both resistance bands and weights? I am intending on following p90x (provided it doesn't kill me) and there is the option to use either or.

Financially it would be better if I only had to buy a couple resistance bands rather then a set of weights - but what are the cons to resistance bands? Do you get as much from them, I don't really know anything about them or have been able to find much...

Any input would be appreciated! Thanks

B
 
It would depend a lot on your starting strength, you can go much heavier with weights than with bands but the bands are much more portable if you want to travel. Both are good depending on how you want to use them. Bands can also be used at the same time as weights depending on what you want to achieve.
 
Personally, I think a lot of people cheat themselves using bands since most don't know how to use them properly. They can be passable in a pinch or if there's a movement you can't really do with weights (like pull ups), but it's hard to replace just good old fashioned iron. Also, the weights you out grow for one exercise can easily be used for other exercises.
 
Personally, I prefer free weights.

However, having said that, it really depends on what shape you are in and what your goals are. Everyone is different, so one method of exercising or using one type of equipment is not the right solution for everyone.

I always recommend individuals consult with a qualified trainer to determine what type of exercise program they should follow and what type of equipment they should us.

Trust me, in the long run it is money well spent.
 
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I think that might be the best route - find someone who knows.
I have a couple friends who have taken personal training courses throught college but it always seems to depend on who I talk to what they recommend - it would probably be better if I just spoke to someone I didnt know because then I wont feel the info is biased for any reason..

I don't know if it makes a difference but I am looking to be more on the lean muscular side rather then the bulky muscular side....

Thanks for the info though guys, its been helpful
 
Resistance bands and weights are two different animals. Weights are going to force you to stabilize more - to use multiple muscle groups. They'll do more for your core than resistance bands will. You can also increase weight/resistance more with weights than you will be able to with resistance bands.

Resistance bands have the benefit of being portable, inexpensive, take up less room, etc. They're probably less "scary" for beginners.

Overall you'd be better off using weights if you can. Resistance bands would be a backup or alternative for those who don't have access to any kinds of weights.
 
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