Weekly Training Article | With the Theraband, Exercise is Made Simple Again | 2/22/10-2/28/10

Theraband Exercise has swept the world because of its simplistic, convenient nature and truly profound results. The premise of Theraband Exercise is that it has a strip of elastic, and exercises very specific sets of muscles. Its strongest versatility point is that it can be used on almost any muscle or joint to strengthen, tone and increase mobility.

Theraband Exercise is utilized by physical therapists, athletes and those with limited mobility. Because it’s purely resistance training, the difficulty varies with the user. Should you feel like working a muscle strenuously, faster and harder movements will give a more productive workout. If you are unable to work at such a fast and difficult pace, slow and steady movements still strengthen joints and improve flexibility.

In one popular soccer exercise, a player holds the band that is tied around a teammate's waist. The constrained teammate attempts to head-butt balls tossed to him while under the constraint. This increases his flexibility and muscles, coupled with a bit of resistance training.

A great deal of physical therapists will hold onto the loose ends of the band or tie it around a post while the patient puts his or her leg in a loop, and moves it back and forth as fast as possible. This is especially effective for people recovering from surgery or serious injury.

For busy moms, it’s so simple to carry around the Theraband in your car or purse. Theraband Exercise can be conducted in the car (perhaps, while sitting in a school parking lot waiting for the kids). It is so simple to tie the band into a loop and perform quick arm or leg thrusts. Done on a daily basis for as little as fifteen minutes, you can see serious improvements in strength, flexibility and range of motion.

Perhaps one of the most fantastic benefits of Theraband Exercise is its simplicity. Because it does not require very strenuous activity, the handicapped or obese can participate and gain the phenomenal benefits of resistance training. Those suffering from movement-impairing diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, can increase circulation and movement through Theraband Exercise. For people suffering with nerve conditions and other disorders, any type of movement -- let alone exercise -- can be painful. Theraband resistance training empowers the user to be in total control of the level of difficulty. There is no need to stand or be uncomfortable when using a Theraband, therefore, you can be in movement without the risk of falling or becoming exhausted.

When you first see a Theraband (as it is merely a strip of latex), the longevity and variety of strength training comes into question. However, many Theraband manufacturers created color-coded bands that signify thickness. A thicker band means more resistance. ... More resistance means harder work, but bigger muscles. Some users have even doubled up the bands to increase resistance. Shortening the length of the band also provides more efficient strength training. Also, there are over three hundred exercises that can be conducted with a Theraband, working every muscle in the body.

Because Therabands are made of strong latex, the chance of breakage is almost nonexistent, even over time. There is no complicated equipment to clean. Should the band get dirty, cleaning is as simple as some running water and a paper towel.

Keep in mind, Therabands should not be used as a total fitness program, as cardiovascular exercise is necessary, as is good nutrition. It is recommended that an evening stroll or brisk bicycle ride accompany a good diet, alongside your Theraband Exercise.

Source: articlecircle.com