Best 7 Full Body Workouts You Can Do with Just a Resistance Band
Best 7 Full Body Workouts You Can Do with Just a Resistance Band
Are you a busy professional struggling to fit in a full-body workout? Maybe you're tired of the intimidation of the gym or just don’t have the time or space for complicated equipment. Resistance bands are a game-changer, allowing you to perform effective full-body workouts right at home or while traveling. In this guide, we’ll explore the best 7 full-body workouts you can do with just a resistance band, designed to maximize efficiency in minimal time.
Quick Stats Box:
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes including warm-up
- Equipment Needed: Resistance band (light to medium tension)
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Calories Burned: Approximately 150-250 calories depending on intensity
Warm-Up (5 Minutes)
Before diving into your workout, it's crucial to get your muscles warmed up to prevent injury. Perform each movement for 30 seconds:
- Arm Circles: Extend arms out to the sides and make small circles, gradually increasing the size.
- Leg Swings: While holding onto a wall or chair, swing one leg forward and backward, then switch.
- Torso Twists: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and rotate your torso side to side.
- Hip Circles: Place hands on your hips and make large circles with your hips in both directions.
- Dynamic Stretching: Reach for the sky, then touch your toes, repeating for 30 seconds.
Full Body Workouts with Resistance Band
1. Squat to Press (Band Overhead Press)
- Reps: 12
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 45 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your chest up and press directly overhead.
- Modification: Perform a bodyweight squat without the band for an easier version.
2. Resistance Band Row
- Reps: 12
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 45 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Squeeze your shoulder blades together as you pull.
- Modification: Use a lighter resistance band or perform seated rows on the floor.
3. Lateral Band Walks
- Reps: 10 steps each direction
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your knees slightly bent and step wide.
- Modification: Decrease the distance of your steps for an easier version.
4. Chest Press
- Reps: 12
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 45 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your elbows at shoulder height while pressing forward.
- Modification: Perform the press standing instead of seated for less resistance.
5. Deadlift with Resistance Band
- Reps: 12
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 45 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Hinge at your hips and keep your back straight.
- Modification: Reduce the tension by using a lighter band or performing without.
6. Band Side Leg Raises
- Reps: 12 each side
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your body upright and lift your leg straight to the side.
- Modification: Perform without resistance for an easier version.
7. Plank with Band Pull
- Duration: 30 seconds
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your body in a straight line and pull the band towards your waist.
- Modification: Drop to your knees for a modified plank.
Exercise Summary Table
| Exercise | Reps/Duration | Sets | Rest | |------------------------|------------------|------|--------------| | Squat to Press | 12 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | | Resistance Band Row | 12 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | | Lateral Band Walks | 10 steps each | 3 | 30 seconds | | Chest Press | 12 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | | Deadlift with Band | 12 reps | 3 | 45 seconds | | Band Side Leg Raises | 12 each side | 3 | 30 seconds | | Plank with Band Pull | 30 seconds | 3 | 30 seconds |
Cool-Down (3-5 Minutes)
Finish your workout with a cool-down to help your muscles recover. Hold each stretch for about 30 seconds:
- Standing Quadriceps Stretch: Pull one foot toward your glutes.
- Seated Hamstring Stretch: Extend one leg while reaching toward your toes.
- Shoulder Stretch: Bring one arm across your body and hold it with the other arm.
- Child’s Pose: Kneel and stretch your arms forward while sitting back on your heels.
Complete in: 25-30 minutes
Conclusion
With just a resistance band, you can effectively train your entire body in a short amount of time, making it perfect for busy professionals. Aim to complete this workout 3 times per week, allowing for rest days in between. As you progress, increase the resistance of your band or the number of reps to continue challenging your muscles.
To take your fitness journey further, consider personalized coaching with real-time feedback to ensure you’re performing each exercise with optimal form.
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