Resistance Bands Move Rehabilitation Patients and Athletes Alike

Resistance band workouts are showing up all over, not just as an important part of any physical rehabilitation program but in the mainstream gym.  The popularity of these workouts is in part to the perception of resistance bands as less intimidating than free weights or weight machines.  While they seem less difficult, anyone who has done a full body resistance band workout can tell you that they are not easy!  While they offer a safe and effective workout to those just starting an exercise regimen, resistance band workouts are just as effective for seasoned athletes.

Resistance training has been known to health experts for many years as a beneficial part of an exercise plan.  Though many people associate resistance training with heavy weight lifting or muscle building, which is not the benefit most people are looking to achieve.  Resistance training is also known to build muscle and reduce fat.  It also builds muscle strength and flexibility.  It is this combination of results which makes resistance workouts performed with bands to be beneficial to both rehabilitating and healthy individuals.

By using physical therapy bands, therapists can assist patients of any size, age or strength level.   Bands are available in a variety of strengths, which allow patients to progress incrementally and in a controlled manner.  Control is another aspect of physical therapy band workouts which is important to the rehabilitation patient.  By using slow movements, and by using resistance bands, patients are able to concentrate on isolating a particular movement and strength exercise.  This prevents further injury while a post-operative or post-injured muscle is repaired and re-strengthened.

Resistance band therapy also promotes at-home therapy activities because they are easily portable and easily set-up outside of the rehabilitation center.  With the ability to perform exercises in their own homes, patients can attend therapy sessions at the rehabilitation center on a less frequent basis, speed their recovery, and take an active role in their progress.  Resistance bands also allow the patient to continue a program for recovery beyond the allotted time their insurance may cover with a rehabilitation center.   The ability to continue a prescribed course of therapeutic activity is key to preventing relapse and incomplete rehabilitation.