Resistance bands can be used in a variety of different ways, but the most common uses are for resistance training and stretching. Resistance bands are typically made out of rubber or latex, which makes them stretchable. Because they stretch so easily, they provide resistance when you pull against them. For example, if you pull a band with your arms behind your back while standing tall with feet shoulder-width apart, it will provide resistance in the opposite direction. This type of exercise is called an “isometric contraction.” Another way to use resistance bands is by wrapping them around an object such as a pole or chair and pulling against them while standing or sitting on the floor (or both!).

There are many different ways you can use resistance bands, but there are some basic guidelines that will help you get started.

9 Resistance Bands Tips

1. Always warm up with light cardio to increase blood flow
2. Wear shoes when using these types of exercise equipment!
3. When warming up mimic the exercises you plan to do without the band
4. Be sure that the band is not too tight or too loose when performing any exercise involving it; if it’s too tight then it may cut off circulation, but if it’s too loose then it won’t give you enough challenge on any given exercise. A good rule of thumb is that if an individual can place two fingers between their skin and the strap then it should be okay for usage purposes (but check with your doctor first if there’s any doubt about this).
5. Keep your knees bent when doing squats. Squatting with straight legs will put too much pressure on your knees and possibly cause injury.
6. Move slowly through each exercise. It’s important to give yourself time to feel the muscle working, and it helps prevent injury as well.
7. Don’t bounce while doing any movement that involves your lower body (squats, lunges, etc.). Bouncing causes excess stress on your joints, which could lead to injuries down the road.
8. Cool Down with light stretching
9. Do not perform any movements that cause pain or discomfort. Be sure you know how to properly perform each exercise with correct form

The post 9 Resistance Bands Tips For The Win appeared first on FlexFlo.

But what exactly does a foam roller do? And how can you take advantage of this simple piece of equipment?

For starters, it helps with muscle recovery. Your body naturally produces enzymes called proteases (or proteolytic enzymes), which break down protein fibers as a way to repair damage to your muscles. The breakdown of these fibers releases chemicals like lactic acid and hydrogen ions that cause muscle soreness after exercise. When you use a foam roller on your muscles before and after exercise, however, these chemicals are released into the bloodstream faster than normal—so they don’t have time to get trapped in your muscles and make them sore. This speeds up recovery time so you can get back into training sooner!

Foam Rolling for muscles

Foam rolling also increases blood flow to your muscles by causing micro-tears in their tissue—which stimulates muscle growth by creating new capillaries for more oxygenated blood flow and nutrient delivery. And when those blood vessels are broken down? They become more flexible over time so they don’t restrict movement or cause pain when moving.

Remember it’s important to use foam rollers regularly if you want to maintain overall health as well as good posture throughout life from childhood through adulthood (and beyond).It’s easy to do, and it’s an awesome way to get ready for a workout, or as part of your post-workout routine.

The post Foam Rollers For Muscle Growth And Recovery appeared first on FlexFlo.