Whether you attend group fitness classes or work with a personal trainer at a gym, it's important to know how to properly use the equipment and choose the right types of exercises to reach your fitness goals. If you're looking to build strength, the two most popular ways are by using resistance bands and dumbbells. However, these two pieces of equipment work differently and have unique benefits. Take a look at which one is best for you. 

Resistance Bands

What are they? 

A resistance band is a stretchable elastic band used for strength training and physical rehabilitation. By pushing out on the band and creating resistance, it builds strength in the muscles without using heavy weights and large equipment. They come in various sizes and levels of resistance. 

When should I use them? 

Resistance bands are incredibly easy to use and transport, so they're a great option if you want toontinue working out while traveling. These bands can also be incorporated into a variety of exercises, helping you target new muscle groups. Resistance bands can help you build upper body strength and are a good choice for beginners. 

Dumbbells 

What are they? 

Dumbbells are free weights that can be used with one hand or both, held on a handle that is attached to two equal weights. They can weigh anywhere from two to one hundred pounds and be used in pairs of two or individually. 

When should I use them? 

Just like resistance bands, dumbbells are versatile, but they are not as easily transportable as resistance bands. However, they use constant resistance, not just resistance that you create with the elastic bands. Ten pounds will always be 10 pounds, no matter the exercise you do. This is also beneficial because you can track your progress by slowly increasing the weight, which you can't do with a resistance band. 

While resistance bands may begin your strength training journey, dumbbells will build more significant muscle. You may plateau at some point with a resistance band, so you'll need to move to free weights if you want to progress with strength training. 

If you are looking for a new gym or personal trainer, choose Anytime Fitness in Chesterfield, MO. Open 24/7 with 3,000 gyms globally, Anytime Fitness provides an array of cardio machines, circuit machines, and free weights. Call (314) 485-8986 to start your seven-day free trial, or visit their website for more information.