Pilates Resistance Bands
The use of props and the dependence on props is not that frequent or that heavy in Pilates as compared to yoga. One of these props is the resistance band, which is used in both Pilates and yoga. This resistance band is also referred to as the Flex-Band or Thera-Band. The resistance bands are not only useful for Pilates but they come in handy for many other fitness disciplines and a number of rehabilitation techniques.
Basically the Pilates Resistance bands are a stretchy strip of latex, which works quite effectively in terms of providing a light degree of resistance to a Pilate’s workout. For Pilates exercises resistance bands are useful in contributing towards lengthening major muscles of the body, targetting both the upper body as well as the lower body. In addition to providing this muscle toning benefit, these resistance bands also play their part in working the core abdominals as well as improving the level of flexibility along with enhancing the joint mobility, which exist between the muscles. Besides that the resistance bands are also very helpful in developing a level of harmony and a deep sense of concentration between the mind and the body, which further plays towards sculpting out a strong and improved physique along with a refreshed and sharper mental focus. As a matter of fact, resistance band serve the role of suitable replacements for the Pilates Reformer, which is one of the most important Pilates exercise machines. Because of the spring that the Pilates resistance bands are equipped with, it provides the required level of elasticity and flexibility that could have been given by the Pilates Reformer in an alternative case.
There are many multiple uses of the resistance bands when it comes to Pilates. It could prove its helpful nature in the case of stretching, toning and sculpting the muscles that lie between the ankle and the wrist. The diverse area that the use of a resistance band covers is highly phenomenal considering the apparent simplicity of the very prop. In fact it is the versatile nature of the resistance band, which helps in accomplishing such a momentous feat. For instance, the resistance band could be easily wrapped around the back while the arms are positioned in front and the chest is pressed simultaneously.
It could also be stepped on while standing and curled up with the help of using the biceps. In addition to that, it could even be used to lunge forward and then reach back to make the triceps go in motion. Also one could lie on his/ her back while the foot is enclosed in the strap. Placed in such a posture, one could conveniently perform single leg stretches, which helps in toning the leg muscles. Another possibility could be that of placing the resistance band on the feet of the practitioner while he/ she holds the resistance band to carry on a series of abdominal roll backs. And the best part about resistance bands is their portable nature and economical price. It could be carried anywhere and it could prove to be verily helpful particularly for a Pilates workout. Nowadays the availability of a resistance band is not a complex or difficult feat anymore as it is easily accessible in the market in response to the heavy demand of the mass market. Some of the most famous brands of resistance bands for Pilates are the Altus Pilates resistance bands and the Windsor Pilates resistance bands. Another very famous name in the fitness circles is that of Denise Austin, who excel in a diverse category of fitness equipment. The Denise Austin Pilates Exercise Resistance Band, just like its other offerings is authentic and useful.
Considering the plenitude of possible utilities that could be taken from a resistance band, its usage seems to a point of necessity in the course of practicing Pilates.