Benefits of Overhead Resistance Bands aka BANDS class
Preview of a BANDS class
Using overhead resistance bands in a cardio routine has several scientific benefits that enhance both cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength.
Here are key points to describe these advantages:
Increased Muscle Activation: By engaging the resistance bands overhead, you activate the muscles of the upper body, including the shoulders, arms, chest, and upper back. This muscle engagement strengthens those areas while simultaneously elevating the heart rate for a more intense cardio workout.
Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility: Overhead movements using resistance bands encourage a greater range of motion in the shoulders, improving joint flexibility and stability. This can lead to better posture and reduced risk of shoulder injuries.
Enhanced Core Stability: Maintaining overhead tension with resistance bands requires activation of the core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, and lower back. This builds core strength and stability, improving balance and coordination during dynamic cardio exercises.
Increased Caloric Burn: Incorporating resistance into cardio routines elevates the overall intensity, requiring more energy and boosting caloric expenditure. The combined effect of resistance and cardio creates a higher afterburn effect (EPOC), where the body continues to burn calories post-workout.
Improved Endurance and Strength: Resistance bands challenge muscles in a different way than traditional cardio. By incorporating overhead movements, both endurance and strength in the upper body are improved, offering a dual benefit to the cardiovascular system and muscular system.
Low-Impact and Joint-Friendly: Resistance bands provide a controlled, low-impact form of resistance that’s gentle on the joints. This makes it an excellent option for individuals looking to protect their knees, hips, and shoulders while still achieving a challenging, full-body workout.
These benefits combine to create a balanced and effective workout, supporting cardiovascular health, muscular strength, and overall functional fitness.
