(Part 2) Best exercise bands according to redditors
We found 639 Reddit comments discussing the best exercise bands. We ranked the 273 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
Repeat 2 sets of 10-20 reps. You will feel your butt.
Now move the band up above your knees.
Are you able to do hamstring curls with the stability ball? What about straight-leg deadlifts?
Door anchor https://www.amazon.com/DYNAPRO-Anchor-Extra-D-Handle-Resistance/dp/B00K2323LE
I bought this set of 10 silicone bands here. I wear them when I go to the beach or play sports, they're great quality and super cute when stacked.
I was eyeing them on amazon for weeks and last night said to myself - why don’t I just make it!?! I used scrap Bernat Blanket yarn, I just single crocheted (tight tension) two rows (used back post on chain to make the edge nice), then attached to the beginning (so it was one big circle you could say), lay flat so there's two layers, then just used more yarn to sew the areas to create the separate hand and foot holes.
It’s not the best, I eyeballed everything and was lazy and didn’t measure out the holes to be totally even throughout the length of it but it works and it’s comfy on my hands!! Saved myself 20 bucks!
Edit: If anyone is curious what it's used for, here's the amazon link (is this allowed?) I didn't know this existed until a few weeks ago and it works really well!
This wiki/blog post is helpful but here is a past comment I made as an answer:
A fitness mat (thicker) is nice for the plyo day (easier on the knees) but you otherwise want a thinner mat (e.g., yoga mat).
Resistance bands or weights. I have bands and might break down and buy weights. It is just easier and more intuitive. They are fairly expensive though...
Pull-up bar. I think this bar works well and it's not too hard to put together. Bonus: bands.
Chair for certain exercises.
Yoga blocks. I have not used them and you can get away without them but I can see their use. They make stretches easier (or harder) and are demonstrated in p90x.
Protein shake and bars. I hear the p90x products are actually very good but they're definitely expensive. I opted for Optimum Nutrition Whey Powder with a cheap blender bottle and these bars after a little research on /r/fit and google.
Lots of water and even more motivation! It feels like such an accomplishment after each day though. Off to go do Plyo for week 3!
Ninja Edit: Heart rate monitor and push up bars are two very optional but very useful items that I plan to invest in soon.
It's just a normal resistance band like found here. It can be a replacement if you don't have access to a pulley style weight machine. Though in this case, it drops you weight for a pullup by like 30lbs. So if you can't do one on your own, you can still build up the muscles by using this, and then be able to graduate without the band. The only thing that kept my daughter from doing Presidential fitness was pullups, so she requested one. She's pissed b/c my son can do a few without it.
This is mine with the starting sets and reps I shot for in the beginning.
Monday - Cardio
5k. I prefer treadmill work, because I can control and measure my own pace and improvements.
Tuesday - Core
HANGING LEG RAISE
2 sets of 15 reps, rest 30 seconds between sets
SIT-UP WITH PUNCH
3 sets of 20 reps, rest 30 seconds between sets
PLANK
3 sets of 90 seconds between sets
WEIGHTED SIT-UP
3 sets of 10 reps, rest 45 seconds between sets
WEIGHTED RUSSIAN TWIST
3 sets of 12 reps each side, rest 30 seconds between sets
I also do a couple of BJJ drills that build core strength that I can't adequately explain in a forum like this and don't have a reference for how to do them. If you feel like you need more core work and don't know any of the grappling drills, look at medicine ball work
Wednesday - Rest
Thursday - Strength
This is a simple strength building workout based off access to a barbell rack. You can replace with a bodyweight routine if you don't have one. Compound movements are important.
BENCH PRESS
5 sets of 5 reps, rest 60 seconds between sets
DEADLIFT
3 sets of 8 reps, rest 60 seconds between sets
BACK SQUAT
3 sets of 8 reps, rest 60 seconds between sets
MILITARY PRESS
2 sets of 10 reps, rest 60 seconds between sets
CHIN-UP
3 sets of 8 reps, rest 60 seconds between sets
Friday - Power and Cardio
HEAVY BAG
10 rounds of 60 seconds, rest 60 seconds between sets
BODYWEIGHT JUMP SQUAT
3 sets of 30 reps, rest 45 seconds between sets
WEIGHTED DECLINE SIT UP
3 sets of 20 reps, rest 45 seconds between sets
SUPERSET
PUSH-UP
5 sets to failure
PULL-UP
5 sets to failure
60 seconds rest between supersets
JUMP ROPE
1 set of 15 minutes
Equipment Needed
I've seen results with this routine with a good diet and two-three nights at the Krav Maga gym. I've lost 15 pounds, I can see my abs, all my muscles have tone and my longevity in a fight is significantly improved.
I prioritize cardio, then core, then strength, so I will throw in a second 5k on the weekend if I don't go to the gym or climb. Exhausted fighter is a dead fighter and all.
i don'T use them for that because i use the pulley machine at the gym, but if didnt have time i'd use this one that i have:
https://www.amazon.ca/AmazonBasics-Resistance-Pull-Band-10-35/dp/B01FN7XAYW/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540608271&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=eslatic+band+red+amazonbasics
If you can get a resistance band, I find it really helps to put it around my knees while I do glute bridges. It forces you to keep pushing your knees outward, and your glutes will be on fire!
Something like this, just above your knees.
I prefer audiobooks or nothing.
Some people like these resistance bands to do the warmup and they might help later with other kind of training: like front lever and planche.
The [brachioradialis] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brachioradialis) can get very very sore from high volume "pulling" work even if you are well conditioned. Typically, I use a [voodoo band] (https://smile.amazon.com/WODFitters-Compression-Flossing-Mobility-Recovery/dp/B00SA7VG8A/ref=sr_1_2?s=sports-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1492224165&sr=1-2&keywords=voodoo+floss) or try to [barbell smash] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eQ-BBjcjeE) my arms and biceps. Those can help alleviate pain and soreness. If you have symptoms of Rhabdo start pounding water and get checked out, the sooner you catch it the better.
If you dont have it I strongly suggest buying some voodoo floss or its equivalent and foam rollers. In my experience its from tight quads and calves. If you dont I recommend stretching. I usually do couch stretches. I also highly recommend buying "becoming a supple leopard" also by Dr kelly starrett. Its a great book it comes with a pain prescription section thats in the back of the book you look for the area and he usually as 2-3 exercises to fix the area.
What /u/plasticboy suggested is excellent if you have room, if not you can get resistance bands and a door "attachment" such as http://www.amazon.com/SPRI-Xertube-Resistance-Band-Attachment/dp/B004SP1ZES/ref=sr_1_6?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1412197266&sr=1-6&keywords=resistance+band+door+anchor and you'll get similar use however the resistance won't be near the same level. These work by placing them at the top of your door and closing it, and while it may be hard to see there's a little ball on the side that doesn't have a loop preventing it from slipping through your door.
Is it that the molding on your door is too wide so the bar won't fit? Mine have the same issue, if the door itself is too wide then there are extensions you can get for pullup bars.
If you go the resistance band route just be sure that you have your door closed all the way when you do it. I had a door that I thought was closed (it was like half closed) and as I was standing ~13 feet away from it the door opened and the band came back and hit me right across the chest. Needless to say, quite painful.
I got some cheap ones from amazon because I wanted to try different colors, they're great! I love the little heart imprint.
If you want the band used in the video, it looks like a pull up assist band, specifically the typical lowest resistance one. Most of those are usually a 10-35 lb band, like this one from Amazon Basics. Another common band used for physiotherapy and stretching is a TheraBand.
I got these ones!
If you don't have access to an assisted pullup machine, just use bands.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TindOf7zyXM
Start with the band under your feet, then move it to your knee (like in the video), then go without.
I'd get something like this:
Jump Stretch Band
Apologize in advance for formatting issues I'm on mobile.
I only used those bands that dont stretch. This is the one I use.
OPTP Stretch Out Strap with Stretching Exercise Poster
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXWS98E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_UIFQzbNPEQA4H
For stretches I do basic hip opening stretches and I do 5-10 deep breathes. Depends if I'm in a time crunch or morning or night. I find it easier to do longer breathes at night after a day of movement.
My routine if you want to get specific is:
Again sorry in advance I dont know all the names on the top of my head.
Be sure to not round your back. Have a slight bouncing motion then hold and flex on the last breadth
What helps is if you have something to hold onto and push yourself down to further the stretch (like a bed frame or if you idgaf then a table leg). Do the same in with you have a bouncing motion and then hold on the last one
This I dont bounce but be sure that your back ia straight. If you want to really feel it lean forward (back straight!) And use your elbows to push down on your legs.
This stretch is like you're in the position of doing lunges. Be sure that when executing you're flexing your butt and your knee does not go past your toes. You should feel the stretch in the other leg. No bouncing just hold.
This one is self explanatory.
I'll provide a more in-depth update once I get home
Yeah these helped me reached that level of flexibility. I do other stretches for my upper body but my hips are my main concern since I sit down a lot and stretching the upper body is pretty easy to do anywhere without looking weird.
If you have any other questions please be sure to ask. I'm more than welcome to help in anyway I can!
Recommended equipment:
Hell ya! Deadlifts and Squats are the ticket. Great compound lifts. Those will carry you a long way, Keep at em, really fun lifts. Invest in a Strech Strap and Foam Roller if you dont already have them.
Also a good routine to check out is the Starting Strength Program
Once you get in a routine it's really fun to push yourself. Keep at it!
Wow - super useful, thanks! Also exercise bands...50$. These ones reputedly don't snap (they have a rope inside them that won't let you stretch them 'too far'). See: http://www.amazon.ca/Bodylastics-Resistance-anti-snap-components-exercises/dp/B0026NANMY
When I used to go to Fit for Life - later in the evening - it always seemed to be almost only guys working on their form. May not be the best time for your schedule though...
I use an Ottoman Bed Frame along with door anchors (6 of them). You can pull as hard as you want... no need for a frame...
https://www.dreams.co.uk/francis-upholstered-ottoman-bed-frame/p/251-00232
DYNAPRO Door Anchor- Made Extra Large to fit D-Handle Resistance Bands https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K2323LE
I bought the tiniest band for mobility work and I really like the quality of the band.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017MV1SPU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Any off-brand, band like so will do. Don't get the weak handle ones.
Various weighted resistance bands are versatile and pack well
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018JZZ2J6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TYHzCbF24WDQ3
I need help building an at home workout routine. I'll try make this brief and give you guys all the major deets:
My goals: Recomp - put on muscle and decrease body fat, maintain good cardio health
My stats: 5'3.5", 115 llbs
My workplace is looking into a corporate gym membership, which might bring rates down to $40/mo before tax, but I'm not sure when it'll happen.
I understand I'll have to make some concessions, but I'm still looking forward to what the community has to say! Also, I'm wondering if I should buy a pull up bar even if I can't do a pullup.
ETA: Also, how would I progress? And is it possible to recomp at home?
​
You can do without the pull-up bar but the slides and loops are not really an option. You can find both for pretty cheap on Amazon.
Here are are couple of MANY options:
Core Sliders by Day 1 Fitness, Set of 2 Black/Grey, Dual Sided for Carpet and Hard Floors - Premium, Multipurpose Gliding Discs to Strengthen Abs, Lower Back - Portable Abdominal Equipment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PH47BS9/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_zSe2Db2KKHFP9
Synergee Mini Band Resistance Band Loop Exercise Bands Set of 5 with Carrying Bag and Exercise Manual https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPGJZQT/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_ETe2Db1V5F59J
https://www.amazon.com/UPOWEX-Resistance-Whatafit-Exercise-Training/dp/B07DWSPQQY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=resistent+workout+bands&qid=1574278477&sprefix=resistn&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFBRjEzQ0NVWTJONDMmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMjUyMDRYWFAzOFFKNkVVVFomZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDc4MzkwMDFPTUJWOFk4VTZCUEEmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9waG9uZV9zZWFyY2hfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
Something like that could work a treat, double up the band's for more resistance where needed. You're pretty advanced for me to be saying "hey do this" but a collection like that has served me well for three years of heavy use.
Good luck!
I have these (which tbh I bought b/c of a Whitney Simmons YouTube video...) and they're perfect. I couldn't switch back to the latex ones - the rolling drove me nuts.
There are several, often called "door anchors," I have the beachbody one and the spri one, which is pictured here: http://www.amazon.com/SPRI-Xertube-Resistance-Band-Attachment/dp/B004SP1ZES Locally, it's $3-4, so don't buy from Amazon.
Echoing what others have said about bands here. I built a pull-up bar out of 2" piping in my garage, and then purchased these from Amazon. They work great, and allow me to increase the number of pull-ups I can do without hurting myself.
>3) I’ve had lots of trouble with the hinge progression. First question is conceptual: where is the hinge? The Romanian deadlifts hinge at the hips, whereas the Nordic curls hinge at the knees, and they seem to work very different muscle groups. Second problem is finding a progression that fits me. Single leg deadlifts are way too easy, Nordic curls are way too difficult, and I don’t (yet) have bands to help out. For now, I’ve settled on the “nose reach” version (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSrdY7YKf9s&feature=youtu.be&t=1m). But that leads to problem 3: it’s very hard on my kneecaps, and doesn’t feel safe for my knees. Is there something I’m missing?
\You're absolutely right that Romanian deadlifts (RDLs) are hip hinges and Nordic curls are knee hinges. When you look at the movements you'll see that RDLs train hip extension and Nordic curls train knee flexion. While there are some slightly different muscle groups involved, they both train your hamstring strength.
Your hamstrings are actually four different muscles. All four of them connect to one of the two bones in your lower leg, and all but one of them connect to your pelvis. Because of this you can think of your hamstrings trying to pull your calves closer to your hips.
If you're performing loaded RDLs the main muscles being worked are your glutes and hamstrings (hip extension), spinal erectors (isometric antiflexion), traps (isometric scapular retraction and elevation), and your grip (duh). If you're doing Nordic curls the main muscles being worked are hamstrings (knee flexion and isometric hip extension), glutes (isometric hip extension), gastrocnemius (knee flexion), and abs (isometric antiextension).
Until you can buy some bands, grab something heavy and do RDLs. RDLs won't directly carry over to Nordic curls, but you'll still strengthen your posterior chain and get your hinge on.
As for Nordic curls hurting your knees, about the only thing you can do is find something squishy to put underneath your knees.
I just bough these and I'm happy they came in three pack. Sometimes I want more resistance for side stepping and sometimes I want less. I think if they were thicker like the loop I would like them more, but I like them enough :)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B9NXNK8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Keeping in mind affordability and portability, a powerlifting spin (and that I’m on mobile, so sorry about formatting):
I use gold therabands:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00066D62C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I also use these:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K2323LE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have this set and I like it a lot. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003V5JQ2O/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
So just make sure the bar is secured correctly on the trim of the door frame before you attempt to use it. Almost gave myself a concussion once by starting a pull up and literally pulling the bar down onto my head and knocking me to the ground. Safety first!
I should mention that I also do scapula push-ups. In fact, I pretty much follow the Diesel Crew Shoulder Rehab Protocol. I do one of the 'circuits' after each workout. Band work is done every day since it's easy to just get up from the desk and do some pull-a-parts and dislocates. Face pulls require a door hook or something which isn't always on-hand.
Shoulder Rehab: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ONHZmsFec
Band Face Pulls with External Rotation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5edR9tvkctE
Edit: And here's an unsolicited product recommendation. I've found the bands from 'Draper's Strength' to be of great quality and far cheaper than the 'big name' bands from Rogue, Elite FTS, etc. I would not recommend a band with handles, the big loop band is for more versatile and easier to use. Generally you have to search for 'pull up assist band' to find the big loop bands instead of the dual-handle resistance bands.
Example Band: http://www.amazon.com/Drapers-Strength-Red-41/dp/B00C35A9LU/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&qid=1411774524&sr=8-30
I use a resistance band that I half hitch on the pull up bar and I’ve been slowly reducing the resistance. They are pretty cheap on amazon. There is a 4 set and you can also buy them in their own.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IQM3W9U?ref_=Oct_CARAsinC_3407931_1&th=1&psc=1
Anchors for the resistance bands are cheap and available. you just close these into a door and loop the band through:
http://www.amazon.com/SPRI-Xertube-Resistance-Band-Attachment/dp/B004SP1ZES/ref=pd_sim_sg_6
Is there a difference between hip circles and mini bands?
I bought these like a month ago and they're really good quality. I use them almost daily and they haven't stretched out at all.
Use a resistance band. Not the stretching variety, something more heavy duty like the below that wraps around the bar and assists you a bit:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B018JZZ2J6/
If you're close to a pull-up, use a small band. Farther away? Go heavier duty. Green is a great band if you're heavier set or tall, purple if you're lighter, black if you're close to a pull-up now.
Work with the band for a while, adding sets and reps, then remove the band and see where you're at. If you still can't get a pull up after 3 x 8 with the band you have, get a band one step down and continue. You'll get there.
Very helpful with joint issues on dip bars as well.
These bands are really helpful. Otherwise, do negatives.
There may be cheaper sets out there, but this is what I bought and within a couple months I was doing 8 reps without assistance. I started needing to double up the thickest bands.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008OZS2G2
I'm using a red looped band that I use for scap mobility/prehab. I just bend it in half over and over again until it's about 6 inches end to end and about as thick as that bar. It's not as pretty but I get the burn. When that gets too easy, I can purchase the next higher resistance band.
Hi, I use this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0042PSD6C/ref=oh_aui_i_sh_in_o0_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00K2323LE/ref=oh_aui_i_sh_in_o0_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1 together. You just stick it between your door and easy uchikomi bands.
I have a set of Bestope resistance bands. I typically use the thin red one for warming up (band pull-aparts, shoulder dislocations, etc.). I would suggest getting this type of band (long loop as opposed to short loop). I used to use a short loop band but it ripped after just a few weeks of use.
Hi all! I'm looking to buy resistance bands to target my glutes. I want to buy on Amazon because the prices seem great! Are there any tried and true brands?
I'm currently looking at these: Athleema or Belus
What I do for my foot ( I'm not in an injury state) is roll the bottom with a lacrosse ball, and for ankle, I'll use muscle floss on it. Both are effective. I have no idea if you can do this with your foot/injury. Red floss for ankles.
https://www.amazon.com/WODFitters-Compression-Flossing-Mobility-Recovery/dp/B00SA7VG8A/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1520529003&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=floss+voodoo&psc=1
Never used a resistance band before but I see multiple resistance levels. Which one would you recommend from here for these exercises? https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Resistance-Pull-Band-30-60/dp/B01FN7XBVO/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
Hi folks,
I have a question on pull ups with assistance from resistance bands. I don’t have access to a gym currently but I do have access to a park. There’s some pull up bars there but they’re super busy - I’m hoping to grab some time in between when the dudes are on there.
My question is: what resistance of band to start on? On an assisted pull up machine I could only manage to pull up about half my body weight (am 144 pounds). I have these bands:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00URGQGDM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mxHpDbCZPVCM4
To be fair I can just try the bands in various combinations but I’m hoping to not look like a doofus straight off the bat in front of the myriad of dudes!
Help very much appreciated
That'S all I could find aswell but I'm looking more for a latex free version of this LINK
Cheapest solution is usually going to be rings.
That makes Rows easy to handle, however ring dips are kinda hard, because they add the need for core stability on the rings.
Well, the simplest solution for that is one of these., either the purple or the green one. With those rubber bands you can do this: http://www.kingofthegym.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/band-assisted-dips.jpg (Only with rings) To make the dips assisted in the beginning.
Generally I would aim for 15 assissted dips, before you should comfortably be able to do 3 or more without the band.
I got the bodylastics. Don't bother paying extra for the orange band, it's to heavy and useless. One of the drawbacks of bands is that the tension goes up as you extend the band (with dumbbells the weight stays the same no matter where you are in the lift) and the orange band is way to much. Here's a link:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bodylastics-Resistance-Stackable-components-instructions/dp/B0026NANMY/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&qid=1474865893&sr=8-17-spons&keywords=bodylastics&psc=1
Finding their workouts is a bit unclear.
1. Download the bodylastics app onto your phone (not sure if available on computer)
2. Choose Learning Center
3. Tube Bands with Clips
4. Workouts
5. You have choices of "Advanced Muscle Building", "Intermediate Muscle Building", "Fat Burning", "Body Toning" and "Muscle Group Specific".
P.S. Looks like they have their exercises on youtube:
http://www.bodylastics.com/pages/workouts-with-resistance-bands
I have looked into them and eventually wanna get one, along with a battle rope. I do a lot of body weight hangs for the shoulders, back decompression tables, and general body weight exercises and stretches. Benching, kettlebell rows/swings, and deadlifts are all I really do with weights right now.
Have you done Voodoo flossing? Magic. Look at WOD Wraps and voodoo flossing techniques on YouTube. They helped with my elbows (armbars suck) and knee (blew my meniscus completely when I was 23) immensely with stiffness and soreness, they're incredible.
Thanks for all your help. I ended up going with this one - http://www.amazon.com/Black-Mountain-Products-Heavy-Resistance/dp/B003V5JQ2O/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1310606536&sr=1-5. First day on Saturday!
INTEY Pull up Assist Band Exercise Resistance Bands for Workout Body Stretch Powerlifting Set of 4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07226JDDD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_96TIDbGYAM2CD
That’s the exact set I got. The quality and resistance is really good, in my opinion.
But... maybe something like this would be better : I do really like having handles. And this set also comes with a door anchor, which I use a lot at home. I’m just not sure of this exact set but it has good reviews:
Whatafit Resistance Bands Set (11pcs),Exercise Bands with Door Anchor,Handles,Waterproof Carry Bag,Legs Ankle Straps for Resistance Training,Physical Therapy,Home Workouts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DWSPQQY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_87TIDbY219D2Y
I don't think bands are really what you want; decline, pseudo planche or moving to rings are all far better imo.
But to answer your question, Amazon Basics are reasonably priced and seem to be identical to more expensive brands I've encountered.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/AmazonBasics-Resistance-Pull-Band-13-6/dp/B01FN7XBVO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495197973&sr=8-1&keywords=resistance+bands+amazon+basics
You can get some decent ones on Amazon for under $10. Definitely give them a try too!
If by round bands you mean something like this then these are definitely best for lower body. And the cloth type like this shouldn't snap or slide! Tons of glute moves you can do with these.
I have this set from Amazon. They are 12 inches, but I really like them because they are thick and don’t roll up often. The black and red in the set are higher resistance than the OTF bands.
https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Fitness-Resistance-Perform-Synergee/dp/B06XPGJZQT?th=1
Also, I wouldn’t overthink this purchase too much. Find something with good reviews, don’t spend more than 15ish dollars. My first set was a different brand, 10 inches, that wore out after 6 months (they were thinner than the Synergees and stretched out). At that point, I was ready for a set with higher resistance anyway. 10 vs 12 inches didn’t matter much for me.
http://www.amazon.com/Set-Functional-Fitness-Pull-Bands/dp/B008OZS2G2
http://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-monster-bands
these look good.
I Use the rogue green band
I was planning on using them for hamstring stretching. Would these be a better option?
I wish I could say more, but I'm up to 3 unassisted pull ups. I got my first pull-up about six months ago and then kind of let up on my dedication for a pull-up. So not bad...but I could be doing better. I still do a pull-up every time I train and any time I walk past the pull-up bar at work.
Currently, my bigger focus is chin-ups. 3 sets of 15+ at the end of my heavy bench day (running 5/3/1 BBB with my BBB opposite my 5/3/1 lifts). I make sure to focus on my biceps and my lats during my chin-ups. My biceps are still my weak point.
While focusing on your lats, it is important to consider rows as well. For this, I like 1-arm dumbbell rows with a light cheat. This lets me move more weight and get a great stretch/contraction on my lats.
I went cheap with my bands. I bought the black, green, and purple.
People who have experience with using bands as accommodating resistance:
you could get something like this: which is what i use at my crossfit gym to help with my pull ups. I loop it over the bar and put my foot on the band to help me until i build up the strength i need to do it unassisted.
edited to fix link
Consider buying a 4kg and 8kg bell with a thin handles. 2 bells one hand. I have the narrower grip competition handles. It works for me.
The jump from 24kg to 32kg is big. Especially doing doubles.
The jump from 32kg to 44kg is HUUUGE.
Another option is to get some micro mini bands which provide 12lb - 16lbs of additional load. You can spike your swings and use them to help span the jumps between bells when pressing.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017MV1SPU/ref=twister_B017MV1SSC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I've also used adjustable ankle weights and just velcro them to the handles.