Resistance bands are the only equipment you need to stay in shape this summer
Just because you’re on holiday, that doesn’t mean you have to take a vacation from your healthy habits, too.
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/pmn/ILGQA7JWBVEJVOCKQCZOG7AN3Y.JPG)
Do you want a workout you can take on the go? The summer season is a popular time to travel. But being on holiday doesn’t mean you have to take a vacation from your healthy habits, too.
Whether you’re spending time at the Shore, road-tripping to the Poconos, or jet-setting overseas, you’ll want a pump-up routine that’s quick, convenient, and accessible. And one of the most portable pieces of exercise equipment you should never leave home without is a versatile resistance band.
Resistance bands are inexpensive and lightweight, making them the perfect travel companion. And with a little creativity, this small but mighty muscle maker is the only toning tool needed to perform endless exercise options, from strength training to stretching out those sore spots. Another benefit of resistance bands is that they are gentler on sensitive joints compared with bulkier gym equipment or free weights.
Here are my three favorite total body resistance band exercises to pack with you on your summer excursion. You will need a long resistance band and a looped one. Both can be purchased from Amazon, Target or Walmart.
Rows
Begin by sitting down and wrapping your long resistance band around the center of the feet so it is equal in length on each end.
Extend the legs and keep your back straight as you pull both sides of the band straight back until the elbows graze the ribs. Squeeze the shoulder blades for two counts, then release. Repeat 15 times.
Lunge fly
Start by positioning your long resistance band behind the back so it rests on the shoulder blades. Hold an end with each hand. Adjust the feet into a stationary lunge position where the knees form a 90 degree angle, with the front knee over the ankle.
Extend the arms to the sides of the body at shoulder height. As you stand from your lunge pose, bring the arms together until they are parallel. Repeat this sequence 10 times, then switch legs.
Lateral walk
Position the looped band on the legs, right above the knees. It should be smooth and even.
With your weight in your heels, hinge back at the hips to lower the body into a squat. Stay low as you laterally step two large steps to the left and then two large steps to the right. Repeat for 30 counts (15 per leg).
Ashley Blake Greenblatt is a certified personal trainer and wellness coach in South Jersey. Learn more about her virtual training program at ashleyblakefitness.com.