Resistance Bands: the Best Tool for your Home Gym

Published on: 08 August 2018 Last Updated on: 08 August 2019

Resistance bands :

These brightly-colored rubber bands are the perfect choice for any home gym.

Whether you’ve got a full weight-training setup or you prefer bodyweight exercise, the resistance band is a versatile tool to improve everything from mobility to maximum strength.

Stick with us because in this short article you’re going to learn everything you need to know about the why and how of resistance bands!

Resistance Bands: What Are They?

Resistance bands are basically tough, elastic bands that are designed to be used in exercise and sports training.

They can be any length, but the main two are “loops” that are put around body parts – such as the hip circle – or full-length bands that can also be used with weight training equipment.

They’re used for a variety of reasons:

Stretching
Bodyweight strengthening
Resistance training

We’re going to break these down one by one, so you know what you can expect from a high-quality resistance band.

Why We Love Resistance Bands So Much

Home gyms require you to be space-efficient. When you’re in charge of buying and storing everything, you need to get the most out of equipment.

Resistance bands are the perfect bang-for-your-buck purchase. They have many uses, they’re cheap, you can store them easily, and they make everything you do in training better.

You can also take resistance bands anywhere – making it possible to get a great workout on the road, on camping trips, or when enduring the in-laws. This makes them unique among workout tools: good luck doing this with a barbell!

Stretching

Bands make the perfect stretching tool for many reasons.

To start with, they apply gradual resistance. You’re subjecting your muscles to an increasingly more challenging stretch using bands. This is going to make it easier t get into the right positions and combat stubborn, tight muscles.

A great example of this is the shoulder dislocates. The point of this exercise is to warm up the shoulders and loosen off tight muscles in the chest. Bands are much better than a wooden rod for this, as they’ll actively open your chest up and force you to improve on the stretch.

Flexibility is good, but it isn’t much use if you can’t control your shoulders:

“flexibility without strength may predispose the individual to joint injury”

– David Joyce

Elastic resistance forces you to control the movement while you develop greater flexibility. This is crucial for reducing injury and strengthening connective tissues!

Elastic resistance is popular with the world’s best weightlifters and, if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us!

Advanced Mobility

Resistance bands play a big part in advanced mobility techniques and rehabilitation after injury.

Kelly Starrett’s approach to mobility involves bands to improve stretching exponentially. There are dozens of examples of this from improving hip stretches to building ankle mobility. If you’re serious about your mobility, bands can take it to the next level and save you hundreds of hours in the long-run!

They’re also a key part in physiotherapy and rehab. Bands are great for stability and strengthening work – allowing you to improve movement quality and strengthen neglected muscles. These all add up to mean healthier, safer joints.

Bodyweight Strengthening

Are pull-ups too difficult? Add a band.

Are push-ups too easy? Add a band!

Bodyweight strengthening is amazing: gymnastic strength training should be a part of everyone’s exercise routine. However, because you’re using your own body weight it can be hard to scale this to get easier or more difficult since you can’t add/lose weight that fasts.

Resistance bands can be used to assist exercises by attaching them to something that reduces the effect of gravity on you. Dips are a great example – you can put your knees in a band to make the exercise much easier and build towards full dips.

On the other hand, you can make exercises more difficult by adding a band. When performing a push-up, you can put the band in either hand and around your back so that it adds resistance towards the top of a push-up.

This is a great example of how versatile the resistance band is: it can make exercises easier or harder. It’s an easy way of scaling any exercise you can think of!

Resistance Training

If you’re training for strength, power, or sports performance, resistance bands are perfect.

Adding bands to exercises like squats, deadlifts, and even sprints can provide amazing benefits for explosive power. By overloading the top of the movement (when the bands are elongated and provide most resistance) you can develop power in the knee- and hip extension.

Put simply, it makes these exercises easier at the bits that are usually easy. This ensures you’re putting maximum effort into the movements that build strength and power for other sports like Olympic lifting, sprinting, jumping and field sports (like rugby).

Closing Remarks

Resistance bands are great because they’re versatile, compliment every other type of training, and they’re amazingly practical.

With a key role in building strength, improving mobility, and preventing injury, resistance bands are amazing for your health and fitness goals.

If you’re short on money or you’re not sure what to buy for your home gym to get maximum value, they’re the right choice for you.

Read Also :

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Four things you need to know about Mesothelioma

Are you familiar with mesothelioma? You might be familiar with lung cancer and the devastating impact it can have on people and their families; however, mesothelioma is classed as asbestos-related cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs. This asbestos-related disease affects thousands of people every year and tragically, is considered incurable - find a local Mesothelioma lawyer via the link if you have been affected. Sadly, not many people know about this destructive disease, who is most susceptible to it, the symptoms, and how it’s diagnosed. So, with this in mind let’s explore four things that you need to know about mesothelioma. Four things you need to know about mesothelioma: 1. The symptoms So, how do you know that you have Mesothelioma lung cancer? Worryingly, the first signs of this asbestos-related disease start to manifest when the tumors in your lungs begin to grow and spread. It's this process that will trigger certain symptoms like the ones listed below. You have a dry, persistent cough You’re struggling to catch your breath You’re constantly battling chest infections and respiratory illnesses You have pain in your chest/abdomen (this is caused by tumors pressing against your chest wall) Fluid on your lungs Weakness and fatigue 2. Who is most at risk? As mesothelioma is an asbestos-related illness, it's those who are exposed to asbestos in their daily lives (and for extended periods) who are most at risk. Certain occupations mean some workers are far more likely to interact with or handle asbestos than others. It's also worth noting that second-hand exposure – such as amongst friends and family members – is also possible. The following occupations are renowned for the high-risk of mesothelioma. Navy Veterans (those who work in shipyards) Factory workers Firefighters Construction workers Powerplant workers 3. How is mesothelioma diagnosed? If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, then you should speak with your doctor, urgently. Having this dangerous illness diagnosed as soon as possible will increase your life expectancy and you may be able to have treatments that will extend your life. Your illness may be diagnosed with a series of imaging scans, which may start as a simple chest X-ray to look for abnormalities and fluid on the lungs. If needed, you could also have an MRI or CT scan. Blood tests are also likely, as they can help confirm and back up other results that may lean towards a diagnosis. If an abnormality is found, your doctor may take a sample of the tumor for a biopsy to confirm whether or not you're dealing with mesothelioma. 4. Your treatment options Depending on the severity of your illness or the growth of the cancerous cells, you might not be eligible for all types of treatment. However, the most common types of treatments are what you would expect - surgery, for removing tumors and limiting the spread of cancer, chemotherapy to help shrink the tumors, and radiation therapy. You may also be offered experimental medications in a clinical trial. Final thoughts… Speak with your doctor if you’re concerned about mesothelioma and speak with a lawyer if you’ve been recently diagnosed. Read Also: Symptoms and Treatments for Shingles 5 Types of Cancer Prominent in Women Early Symptoms and Signs of Breast Cancer How Talcum Powder & Ovarian Cancer Is Related?

The Top 10 Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy

Good news ladies, pregnant women need to eat an extra 350 to 500 calories each day. Finally, a valid excuse to eat more! With that statistic in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to reveal to you the best foods to eat in early pregnancy. That way, you'll be able to use this surplus of calories to both you and your babies advantage. So, without further ado, let's dive in! 1. Beans and Lentils : If you're looking to nurture your 14 weeks pregnant belly, we recommend eating plenty of beans and lentils. These foods are a fabulous source and protein, and pregnant women need an extra 10 grams of protein each day. Therefore, beans and lentils make an excellent addition to your diet because they contain as much as 15 grams of protein per cup! If you're unsure how to use them, we suggest adding cooked lentils and beans to your salads and rice dishes. These are sure to be a tasty addition! 2. Broccoli : Now, broccoli isn't always everyone's favorite food. However, it's worth bearing with because it's packed full of nutrients such as calcium and folate. In addition to this, it's high in fiber and vitamin C which is essential for helping your body absorb iron. Therefore, the best time to eat broccoli is when you accompany it with iron-rich food like lean red meat or wholegrain pasta. Plus, broccoli is rich in antioxidants, which promote healthy digestion and strengthen your immune system (which is obviously even more critical when you're pregnant). Also, if you're struggling with constipation (which is exceptionally common among pregnant women), broccoli is a must because of its high fiber content. Really and truly, broccoli is the perfect pregnancy food! 3. Bananas : Bananas are a brilliant snack for pregnant women. Not only does the potassium help combat fatigue, but they're also kind on the stomach if you're suffering from morning sickness. 4. Lean Meat : Just like protein levels, pregnant women also need to increase their iron intake. The volume of their blood increases, which causes them to need double the amount of iron. Therefore we suggest eating plenty of lean meat as this provides a form of iron that's quickly absorbed by the body. Good examples of these include: Beef Pork Chicken In addition to iron, these meats typically contain choline and vitamin B, both of which pregnant women need more of. 5. Oatmeal : There's no better to start your day than by eating a bowl of nutritious cereal. The complex carbohydrates in oatmeal will leave you feeling fuller for longer, and this breakfast will help lower your cholesterol levels--win-win! Top Tip: Don't buy processed oatmeals that are full of sugars and additives. Instead, cook yourself the plain variety and add a dollop of jelly. Yummy! 6. Leafy Greens : When you cook the following greens: Spinach Kale Turnip greens You release higher levels of iron and folate. In addition to this, they're also a fabulous source of calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium. We suggest sprinkling a few of these leafy greens in your pasta dishes, adding them to soups, or substituting iceberg lettuce for them in your salads. 7. Whole-Grain Bread : The simple swap from white to whole grain can make a massive difference when you're pregnant. By doing this, you ensure you get your daily intake of fiber. Ideally, you want to ensure that each slice contains at least two grams of fiber before you commit to purchasing the loaf. Plus, wholemeal bread also provides you with both iron and zinc, which are both essential nutrients for pregnant women! 8. Oranges : Oranges are an excellent fruit to eat while you're pregnant. They're full of the following goodies: Vitamin C Folate Fiber Water Now the water might not sound like a massive deal, but these fruits are almost 90% liquid, which is excellent for keeping you hydrated and combatting fatigue. 9. Nuts and Nut Butters : Healthy fats are critical for your baby's brain development, so we suggest eating one ounce of nuts a day and two tablespoons of nut butter. Plus, these snacks will help keep you full! Top Tip: if you suffer from any kind of allergy, we suggest steering clear of highly allergenic foods such as nuts while you're pregnant. Some scientists believe that exposing the baby to foods like this during pregnancy could increase their risk of developing a more severe allergy during childhood. 10. Sweet Potatoes : Sweet potatoes are full of a nutrient called beta-carotene. When we digest it, we transform it into vitamin A. This is fabulous for mothers to be because Vitamin A helps the fetus' cells grow and differentiate from one another. Top Tip: pregnant women are usually advised to stay away from high levels of animal-based vitamin A because these can sometimes be dangerous when eaten to excess. This is another reason why foods that contain beta-carotene are essential to include in your pregnancy diet. Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy: Final Thoughts It's important for women to swot up on the best foods to eat in early pregnancy because your dietary requirements change a little. However, by sticking to diets high in protein, iron, and fiber, you shouldn't go too far wrong! If you enjoyed this article, we're confident you'll love the other features published on our family and parenting blog. Over there we discuss everything from pregnancy care tips to family leave. Enjoy! Alternatively, if you have any questions about this subject, please feel free to drop us a line. We love to hear from our readers! Just fill out the simple contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Speak soon! Read Also : Choosing The Best Mattress That Will Make Mothers Comfortable During Pregnancy Golden Pregnancy Care Tips For All Expectant Women 9 Tips For Staying Fit And Healthy During Pregnancy

What Are Tarpenes? How Do They Work? – Cannabis Guide

If you smoke pot (marijuana) and proclaim yourself to be a Rastafarian stoner, you probably know what are tarpenes. In case you are not, it’s time for you to get high on some interesting facts about terpenes. To know more about this gum-like substance found in cannabis plants and many fruits as well, keep on reading. What Are Tarpenes? Terpenes are extremely fragrant substances that give many plants and herbs, including lavender and rosemary, as well as certain animals, their distinctive scents. Many commonplace goods, including meals, cosmetics, and personal care products, are flavored and scented with isolated terpenes. Terpenes are necessary to plants. Terpenes have different effects on different plants. In some, they encourage pollinators, while in others, they strongly repel predators like insects or gazing animals. Others function as a component of the plant's immune system to ward against contagious pathogens. Some terpenes perform a protective role in the plant, aiding the plant in recovering from harm. Also, erpenoids is a word that some people also use. Tarpenes and terpenoids, however, are not the same. When present in a living plant, these substances exist naturally as terpenes. Terpenes undergo oxidation and transform into terpenoids when a plant dries and cures—as in the case of cannabis manufacturing, for instance. Cannabinoids VS Tarpenes - What’s The Difference? Cannabis contains chemical substances called cannabinoids. Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) activate the body's endocannabinoid system. The "high" that cannabis users feel is brought on by this. Another cannabinoid that is gaining popularity for its therapeutic effects is cannabidiol (CBD). Although CBD interacts with some of the same receptors as THC, it does so in a different way and has no euphoric effects. Although THC and CBD are two of the most well-known cannabinoids, the cannabis plant contains over 100 other cannabinoids in total. Terpenes, which are among the most prevalent substances in the natural world, are also found in the cannabis plant. The majority of plant and certain animal molecules smell because of terpenes. However, some may also have comparable effects to cannabinoids in the body's endocannabinoid system. The primary distinction is how these substances are absorbed and used by the body. Effect Of Tarpenes Image Source: maggiesfarmmarijuana.com Since many terpenes are bioactive, they could have an impact on the body. Depending on the terpene concentration and the user, this impact will change. Terpenes are the primary component of many essential oils. In addition, they are crucial to many alternative therapies, including aromatherapy since they give off strong scents. A person's mood and stress levels may be affected by the aromas of particular plants and essential oils when inhaled. Some individuals think that terpenes will influence or improve the high that comes from cannabis use. Marijuana terpenes increase or modify the effects of THC and CBD in the body - known as the entourage effect. Types Of Tarpenes There are various types of terpenes. Here, I have given brief descriptions of some of the most popular ones. 1. Limonene Image Source: medicalterpenes.com Most individuals can identify the ubiquitous terpene limonene by its aroma. The zesty scent of the rinds of fruits like lemons and oranges is due to limonene, as its name indicates. Limonene appears to alter the behavior of some immune cells, which might shield the body from a variety of diseases. People can safely use limonene as a supplement. 2. Pinene Image Source: cannabisaficionado.com Another common terpene found in nature is pinene. A-pinene and b-pinene are the two varieties of pinene. Numerous plants, such as pine needles, rosemary, and basil, all contain pinene, which gives them their fresh, vibrant aroma. Additionally, pinene may have certain medicinal advantages. Shinrin-yoku, which translates to "forest bathing," is a Japanese treatment that entails taking slow strolls through the forest to take in the sights, sounds, and scents. There may be protective and healing benefits of Shinrin-yoku on the physiology and psychology of an individual. 3. Linalool Image Source: leafly-cms-production.imgix.net The lavender plant produces the most linalool, which gives the bloom its distinctive aroma. One of the most crucial elements in aromatherapy is linalool, which is what gives lavender or its essential oil a relaxing effect on many individuals. Although linalool does seem to have an effect on the body, further research is needed to determine how individuals might use it to improve their health. 4. Myrcene Image Source: chronictherapy.com Terpenes like myrcene are frequently found in plants including thyme, lemongrass, and hops. The cannabis plant's flowers also have Myrcene. A potent antioxidant, myrcene. According to one study conducted on mice, myrcene may aid in preventing brain oxidative damage after a stroke. Another mouse investigation has discovered a comparable protective effect of myrcene on heart tissue. Myrcene may be a helpful alternative therapy for ischemic stroke, according to the study. Myrcene appears to have an anti-inflammatory impact and may stop the destruction of certain cartilage cells in a cell model of osteoarthritis, it was reported. This could make it effective in treating osteoarthritis. 5. Beta-Caryophyllene Image Source: d1vo8zfysxy97v.cloudfront.net Many plants and vegetables, including cloves and black pepper, contain beta-caryophyllene. Beta-caryophyllene, like other terpenes, may have an anti-inflammatory impact on the body that may lessen discomfort in certain people. Beta-caryophyllene decreased discomfort from inflammation and nerve pain in animal research. Because the body didn't appear to be acquiring a tolerance to these effects, the researchers speculated that this analgesic and anti-inflammatory impact would be helpful for treating long-term chronic pain. 6. Humulene Image Source: 2fast4buds.com A vital component of the hop plant is humulene. We might also find it in other plants like ginger and clove. Terpenes, such as humulene, may have the ability to prevent allergic responses and asthma, according to one research. Humulene decreased allergic airway inflammation in animal models. This could make it a valuable substance for future all-natural asthma therapies. According to a different study, humulene might protect certain cells. This safeguarding function could prevent cancer. To support these assertions, further research on the effects of humulene is required as this is only early data. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Many people (especially stoners) have various questions regarding the use of Tarpenes. Here are my answers to their queries. Q1. What Do Terpenes Do For You? Ans: The consumption of tarpenes has various medical and psychological effects on our bodies. Some of the most commonly observed properties are:Reduces growth of cancerous cellsIt has antihyperglycemic propertiesImproves the immunity system to fight against microbes like fungi and virusIt can act as an analgesicIt has several anti-inflammatory propertiesParasites are weak against terpenes Q2. Is Terpene A Steroid? Ans: A Tarpene is not exactly a steroid. However, many researchers have related them to steroids because of the similar chemicals present in both. These chemicals have proven to impact our metabolic system to an extent, similar to steroids. Q3. What Do Terpenes Taste Like? Ans: The taste of tarpenes differs from each strain to strain. While terpenes have the natural fragrance and taste of cannabis, the fruit it’s derived from also adds to the taste. Conclusion A tarpene is a substance or a compound that gives plants theory unique smells and flavors. Every plant has their own unique terpene. However, most people every day refer to terpenes being present in cannabis, giving it its “euphoric” properties, taste, and aroma. Read Also: Is Health Care A Good Career Path? How To Make Your Own Cannabis Topicals? 8 Awesome Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate

Resistance Bands: the Best Tool for your Home Gym