9 Best Resistance Bands For Men [GUIDE & REVIEWS]    

Resistance bands are simple but effective workout tools. You can use them for a good exercise session or to rehab injured muscle groups. To help you get started we have put together a guide for what to look for in a resistance band as well as a list of  some of the best resistance bands for men that are currently available on the market.

What You Need To Know About Resistance Bands

Resistance bands might seem like simple tools for exercise but like other exercise equipment, there are differences across styles, brands, and models. It’s important to know a few things about resistance bands before choosing yours. 

We’ll go through the different types of bands, color-coded resistance levels, resistance band safety, and other important features of this useful piece of exercise equipment. 

Types Of Resistance Bands For Men

There are different types of resistance bands to choose from. Here are the main types that are commonly used today:

1. Power resistance bands or loop bands are just like giant rubber bands. They have a continuous flat loop and can be used for a variety of purposes ranging from physical therapy to pull up assistance.
2. Tube resistance band with handles. This popular style of resistance band is used to mimic exercises that are performed with gym machines and dumbbells.
3. Rubber mini-bands are similar to power resistance bands but are shorter and wider at the same time.
4. Therapy bands can reach up to 7 feet in length but they are not looped. This type of resistance band is used by people who are regaining strength after an injury or an accident.

Color-Coded Resistance Levels

Resistance bands are generally color-coded to represent their resistance levels. The problem with the color-coding is that it’s not standardized. This means each brand follows its own coding system.

TheraBand, one of the more popular brands of resistance bands, uses a color-coding system where the color corresponds to a resistance level and a suggested muscle group:

• Yellow, Thin/Easy/X-Light, Shoulders 
• Red, Light, Biceps, and Triceps
• Green, Medium Legs, Chest & Back
• Blue, Heavy Legs, Chest & Back
• Black, X-Heavy Legs, Chest & Back

Generally other brands have adopted similar color coding, although some have fewer or more resistance levels. Just remember when shopping for resistance bands that each brand follows its own coding system. Some may not even have color-coding for their bands – using labels on the ends of the band instead.

Resistance Bands Safety

Like other fitness tools and equipment, resistance bands can pose hazards when used improperly. There are two main dangers posed by the use of resistance bands. 

• There is the danger of the band breaking while in tension.
• It’s also possible for a user to accidentally let go of the handle while the band is in tension.

Here are a few safety tips for the use of resistance bands: 

1. Don’t release the resistance band while it’s under tension. 
2. Start your exercise slowly so you can check the band strength. This is especially true if you are using an unfamiliar or old band.
3. Don’t jerk the band while you’re using it.
4. Inspect the bands before using them. A simple visual inspection can reveal damages or defects that might cause an accident. If you notice cracking, tearing, or other signs of wear do not use this band.
5. Do not stretch the bands to 2.5 x their original length. 
6. When exercising with resistance bands make sure that you are working out over an even surface.

Picking The Right Resistance Bands

Because of the large number of bands on the market, buying one can be a bit tricky. Here are a few tips that you can use to get started on the right track:

If you’re just starting out with resistance bands then you should go for the simpler options. Don’t choose anything fancy yet.

Determine what your goal is with the bands. If it is rehab you do not need to get bands with super high resistance, instead look for lighter bands. If your goal is strength training the heavier bands are probably what you’re looking for.

Another important thing to remember when buying resistance bands is that it’s best to stick to the ones with comfortable handles. Consider buying models that come with accessories (handles, ankle straps, mounting hardware) that make the experience of using resistance bands even better.

Resistance Bands Workouts

There are dozens of ways to add resistance bands to your workouts, but here are three popular exercises to get you started:

1. Triceps Extension

Resistance bands can be used to give your triceps a good workout. Hold the band with your left elbow bent. Then put your right hand over your head with your forearm parallel to the floor while holding to the other end of the band. Straighten the right arm and then return to the original position.

2. Bicep Curl

Start this exercise by sitting on a chair. Then place the band under your right knee (or under your right foot depending on the length of your band) and then hold the other end with your right hand. Pull the band towards your right shoulder. 

3. Hip Abduction

Start by standing next to a wall. Hold on to the wall with your right hand for support. Wrap the resistance band around your ankles and shift your weight to your right leg. Lift your left leg laterally, while maintaining your posture.

FAQs

1. Are resistance bands supposed to be loose?

When a resistance band becomes too loose, it’s an indication that it’s old. Resistance bands don’t last forever – if you notice the band’s tension dramatically drop it is time to replace it.

2. What do the colors mean on resistance bands?

Most brands of exercise bands use color-coding to indicate the resistance level. For the brand Thera-Band for example, yellow indicates the lowest resistance level.

3. What level of resistance band should I use?

The level of resistance band that you need to use should depend on your strength, experience, and muscle group you’re targeting. If you are new to using resistance bands, it is best to stick to the ones with low resistance until you get used to them.

4. How to stop resistance bands rolling?

Some brands are more prone to rolling than others – selecting the correct band will reduce rolling. When placing a band on your body make sure to position it evenly from right to left. If used at an angle, resistance bands are almost guaranteed to roll.

5. Can you build muscle mass with resistance bands? 

You can build muscle mass with resistance bands. You just need the right workout to make that happen.

6. Can resistance bands help lose belly fat?

Resistance bands can be a part of a workout routine that will help you lose belly fat. Bands can be used for exercises that strengthen and tone your abs.

Review Of The The Best Resistance Bands For Men 

Here are 9 of our favorite choices for resistance bands for men:

1. Black Mountain Products Single Stackable Resistance Band: Best Starter Resistance Bands

• Length: 48”
• Number of bands included: 5
• Style: Tubular
• Material: Non-latex rubber
• Resistance Range: 2lbs – 75lbs

The Black Mountain Products Single Stackable Resistance Bands are made from high-quality rubber that ensures they will last longer than other bands. They are also 99% latex-free.

These bands are perfect for strength training, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. The bands from Black Mountain can also be excellent replacements for other exercise equipment.

These bands offer 7 different levels of resistance, which means you are sure to find the right one for your strength level. They’re great for use at home or even at the gym. If you travel often and you like to get your workout on the road then this is perfect too. 

2. Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands: Best Budget Band

• Length: 12”
• Number of bands included:  5
• Style: Loop
• Material:  Natural latex
• Resistance Range: up to 74 lbs

As the name of the brand suggests, these resistance bands are designed to make getting fit simpler. One bag contains a set of 5 resistance bands. These bands are ideal for multiple types of workouts.

Fit Simplify bands have different levels of resistance giving users up to 74 lbs of resistance.

While these bands are designed for exercise, they can also be used for physical therapy sessions. These bands are tested for quality in the factory to guarantee that none are shipped with any defects.

The only downside of these bands is their small size limits the number of exercises that can be performed with them.

3. Aleath Resistance Bands: Best Budget “Tube” Style Bands

• Length: 48”
• Number of bands included:  5
• Style: Tubular
• Material:  Latex
• Resistance Range: 10 lbs – 30 lbs

The Aleath Resistance Bands are perfect for those who are just starting to use resistance bands. They come in 5 strength levels and are made from latex.

What makes these bands different from many basic resistance bands that are currently being sold is that they can be used in combination to produce greater resistance. This version has a new upgraded design that uses metal clips instead of plastic. 

The handles of the Aleath Resistance Bands are ergonomically designed for a comfortable working out.

4. TheraBand Latex-Free Resistance Bands: Best for Rehab

• Length: 5 feet
• Number of bands included: 3
• Style: Loop band
• Material:  Latex-free
• Resistance Range: 4.6lbs- 6.7 lbs

As one of the leading brands of resistance brands in the market, TheraBand is sure to belong to this list. TheraBand’s Latex-Free Resistance Bands are versatile and can be used at home or even at the gym. 

These color-coded bands can be used for a variety of purposes. These bands are best for rehabbing injuries but are also able to be used for light workouts or warmups.

The set comes with three color-coded bands. The Yellow band offers the least resistance at 3-4.3 lbs, the Red delivers 3.7-5.5 lbs, and the Green one provides 4.6-6.7 lbs of resistance.

This is just the beginner set so if you want something more intense then you need to check out the other options from TheraBand.

5. HPYGN Resistance Bands Set: Best All-Purpose Band

• Length: 4 ft.
• Number of bands included:  5
• Style: Tubular
• Material: Latex
• Resistance Range: 10 lbs – 50 lbs

The HPYGN Resistance bands set comes with 5 different resistance levels. The resistance levels range from 10 lbs to 50 lbs and the bands are color-coded and labeled to make it easy for users to tell the difference.

The HPYGN bands are ideal for building muscles, burning fat, and rehabbing injuries. It uses real latex material and sturdy stainless steel carabiners that will not accidentally detach while you are using the bands.

While these bands offer more than the basics, they aren’t quite heavy-duty. Still, if you are looking for a mid-range band, the HPYGN bands are great options to consider.

6. TheFitLife Exercise Resistance Bands with Handles: Most Versatile

• Length:
• Number of bands included: 5
• Style:  Tubular
• Material:  Natural latex
• Resistance Range: 10 lbs – 150 lbs

TheFitLife Exercise Bands offer 5 resistance levels ranging from 10 lbs to 110 lbs Each band can be used individually or they can be stacked together for maximum effect.

Made from premium materials, TheFitLife Exercise Bands are very durable. You can expect to use these for a long time.

These bands are also equipped with reinforced locks that have double-layer fabrics. It also comes with cross-stitch double-layer reinforced weaving. These bands also have adjustable ankle straps allowing them to be used for a wide range of exercises

7. Whatafit Pull Up Assist Bands Resistance Stretch Band: Best Budget Pull Up Bands

• Length: 42”
• Number of bands included: 4
• Style: Loop bands
• Material:  Latex
• Resistance Range: 15 lbs – 125 lbs

Whatafit offers color-coded resistance bands that can be used for a variety of exercises. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or you’re someone undergoing physical therapy, these bands will definitely help you.

These bands are designed to to last for years even with heavy use. Made from quality and natural latex rubber, these bands don’t suffer from the chemical smell that some synthetic bands have.

These bands are designed to resist breaking and snapping – two of the main causes of accidents when using resistance bands. 

Just take note that these loop-style bands do not have handles.

8. Draper’s Strength Heavy Duty Resistance Stretch Loop Bands: Well Rounded Loop Style Band

• Length: 41”
• Number of bands included: 1
• Style: Loop
• Material:  Latex
• Resistance Range: 2 lbs To 200 lbs 

If you are looking for resistance bands that can be used for some heavy-duty workout, then Draper’s Strength Heavy Duty Resistance Stretch Loop Bands is a great option to check out. 

It comes with a lifetime durability guarantee ensuring that you can use these bands for years. These bands are also multi-functional and can be used by athletes, therapists, or fitness enthusiasts who want to get a good workout at home.

With a length of 41 inches, this band is guaranteed to provide you with the optimal exercise that you need.

Note: this product only comes with a single band, be sure to select a resistance level that matches your needs.

9. WODFitters Pull Up Assistance Bands for Workout: Best Pull Up Band Set

• Length: 41”
• Number of bands included: 5
• Style: Loop
• Material: Latex
• Resistance Range: 10 lbs – 175 lbs

It’s not for nothing that WODFitters is claiming that their product is the “King of Resistance Bands”. These bands come with multiple layers of high-quality latex that have been fused together for extra strength. These bands come at a bit of a price premium, but they are very high quality.

The set comes with 5 bands, with each band having its own resistance level. A single set is like your own gym that you can carry around in a small bag with a large variety of exercises that you can perform. You can use these for a challenging round of pullups or powerlifting sessions. 

It’s not just athletes who can benefit from these bands, people undergoing therapy can also use these bands effectively. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re an elite athlete constantly training, or you’re a newbie to the world of fitness, resistance bands are a valuable part of your workout arsenal. These highly portable and versatile bands will let you perform a variety of exercises without taking up too much space. 

If you’re just getting started, the HPYGN Resistance Bands Set is a great first resistance band set!