Resistance Band Exercises for Toned Muscles
The Pilates resistance band is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used to perform many exercises. It has traditionally been used in rehab for specific strengthening exercises, particularly for the shoulder. The bands are so versatile they have now been taken from the original uses and are being used in many Pilates clinics around the world. They can add extra resistance to many of the traditional exercises described by Joseph Pilates to make them more challenging. You need to keep challenging yourself when exercises to optimise benefits and strength gains.
The Pilates resistance bands are traditionally a shoulder rehab tool. When fixed to a stable platform, they are used to perform shoulder movements such as internal and external rotation, flexion and extension. These exercises can be performed by anyone, as a preventive measure for shoulder injuries, particularly in high risk jobs and sports. Other exercises that can be performed for the upper body include rowing with both arms. This is particularly useful for strengthening the middle back muscles and to improve posture.
The bands can also be used to strengthen the leg muscles. When using the resistance bands for leg exercises, you will likely need a higher resistance level as your leg muscles are generall larger and stronger. Examples of exercises that can be performed include ankle strengthening and stabilizing. Holding on to both ends of the band and looping the other end around the ball of your foot, you can perform ankle dorsiflxion, inversion and eversion exercises. Holding the band in the same way a leg press exercise can be performed to strengthen the quadriceps muscles. The Pilates resistance bands can also be used in conjunction with other pilates equipment. Arm exercises with the band can be performed whilst sitting on a swiss ball to further challenge your balance and core muscles.
