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If you’re creating a personal workout space, one of the best pieces of home gym equipment to buy is a barbell. The barbell is very versatile because you can train the entire body with just that and weight plates. But as basic as a barbell is, it can also be quite the investment, and you want to get the biggest return on that investment by choosing the right barbell for your particular type of training. There are also so many different types of barbells that serve different needs, and figuring all of that out may be overwhelming.

We’ve done the hard work already and found the best of the best on the market, and we’re sharing our choices as well as our reasons for making these picks here. What’s the best barbell for squats and deadlifts? What should you get if you’re a beginner? You’re about to learn a lot about different barbells so you can make the best choice possible and set yourself up for training success.

Our Top Picks for the Best Barbells

• Best Barbell for Powerlifting: REP Fitness Deep Knurl Power Bar EX
• Best Barbell for Women: Rogue Fitness Bella Bar
• Best Barbell on Amazon: CAP Barbell The Beast
• Best Budget Barbell: Titan Fitness Elite Series Power Barbell
• Best CrossFit Barbell: Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar
• Best Multi-Purpose Barbell: PRx Men’s Olympic Elite Bar
• Best Olympic Barbell: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar
• Best Specialty Barbell: Kabuki Strength Transformer Bar

Best Barbell for Powerlifting: REP Fitness Deep Knurl Power Bar EX

REP Fitness Deep Knurl Power Bar EX

• Material: Stainless steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 680.2 kilograms (1,500 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 200 KSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.5 inches
• Knurling: Aggressive
• Warranty: Limited lifetime

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Pros

• IPF knurl markings
• High oxidation resistance
• Deep but comfortable knurling
• Very high weight capacity

Cons

• Bushings instead of bearings
• Only available in one color
• Packaging may be damaged

This barbell by REP Fitness is a go-to for many powerlifters because it meets the standards of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). It’s made of stainless steel, which will hold up well against corrosion and can be used indoors or outside. The deep knurling is enough to keep the bar in your hands and on your back, but it won’t be painful or uncomfortable if you haven’t yet built up calluses on your hands.

However, the REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar may not be the best option for those new to training because there are dual rings on the knurling. This could potentially confuse beginners because they won’t know which ring to use for various lifts, such as snatches (for which many lifters use the outer knurl ring) versus a bench press (during which you can’t grip the bar outside the inner knurl ring if you want the lift to be considered a good lift in a powerlifting competition).

Best Barbell for Women: Rogue Fitness Bella Bar

Rogue Fitness Bella Bar 2.0

• Material: Steel
• Weight: 15 kilograms (33 pounds)
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Tensile strength: 190,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 13 inches
• Knurling: Standard
• Warranty: Construction

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Pros

• Available in multiple finishes
• High tensile strength
• Multi-purpose bar

Cons

• Certain finishes may fade quickly
• No center knurl
• Short sleeve length

Women who compete in various strength sports such as CrossFit could get a lot of good use out of the Rogue Fitness Bella Bar because it’s similar to those used in competitions. It weighs 15 kilograms (33 pounds), is 79 inches long, and has a 25-millimeter diameter, as opposed to most Olympic barbells that weigh 20 kilograms (44 pounds), are 87 inches long, and have a 28- to 30-millimeter diameter. The smaller diameter makes it easier to use for women, who typically have smaller hands than men, and newer lifters, who tend to have a weak grip.

The Bella bar has multiple knurl markings because it can also be used for powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and general strength training. It spins very well, so you can curl or clean with smooth motions and no resistance to spinning.

The bar is very well constructed, but if you use the black zinc barbell outside often, the color of the finish may fade. The good news is that if you choose to train outside, other colors and finishes are available that are more durable — like Cerakote and e-coat — so it can still look as well as it performs.

RELATED: Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home Gyms

Best Barbell on Amazon: CAP Barbell The Beast

Cap Barbell The Beast

• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 544 kilograms (1,200 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 110,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 15 inches
• Knurling: Diamond (no center knurl)
• Warranty: 30 days

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Pros

• High weight capacity
• Black phosphate finish
• Will accommodate all Olympic plates

Cons

• No center knurl
• Short return warranty
• Shorter sleeve length than other bars

Amazon is one of the first places people go to buy fitness equipment. The Beast by CAP Barbell is a solid choice to consider if your home gym needs a basic barbell to start with. It has bushings on the inside of the sleeve instead of bearings, but even though bushings tend to rotate more slowly than bearings, the barbell’s sleeves still spin well. It can be used for dynamic movements such as the clean and jerk or snatch in Olympic weightlifting or static exercises like squats and deadlifts for powerlifting.

It’s a strong bar as well for new powerlifters who want something less expensive. There is no knurling in the center, which can help determine if the barbell is center and keep it on the back for exercises such as squats, but this is still a reliable barbell that can help you learn how to train. The black finish makes it look nice as well.

Best Budget Barbell: Titan Fitness Elite Series Power Barbell

Titan Fitness Elite Series Power Barbell

• Material: Steel with chrome
• Weight: 20 kilograms
• Weight capacity: 907 kilograms (2,000 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 220,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.25 inches
• Knurling: Aggressive
• Warranty: One year

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Pros

• Chrome finish
• Budget-friendly
• Two- or three-year warranties available

Cons

• No dual knurling
• Only one color available

The Titan Fitness Elite Series Power Barbell is a very budget-friendly choice that can be used as a powerlifting barbell, for bodybuilding purposes, or for general training. It’s meant to hold as much as 2,000 pounds, so it will hold up to the most intense workouts you can put it through.

There are no dual markings, and the knurling is quite aggressive. It wouldn’t be optimal as an Olympic weightlifting or CrossFit bar, as the knurling can be uncomfortable on the hands during dynamic exercises, but it can be used with any other fitness discipline.

Best CrossFit Barbell: Rogue Fitness Ohio Barbell

Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar

• Comes with a lifetime guarantee against bending
• Weighs 20 kilograms (about 44 pounds) and has a 28.5-millimeter diameter
• 16.4-inch loadable sleeve length
• Dual knurl rings and no center knurl

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Pros

• Good whip
• Comfortable knurling with dual marks
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• No 15-kilogram option
• Bronze bushings instead of bearings
• No steel or chrome finish option

The Rogue Ohio Bar is made in the USA and comes in multiple finishes, such as Cerakote, black oxide, or black zinc. Cerakote and black zinc are known to be rust-resistant, and they can protect the barbell. Black oxide can make the bar feel more comfortable on the knurling, though the finish tends to fade quickly.

Many people consider the Ohio barbell one of the best on the market because of its strength, whip, and comfort for trainees of all levels, and it’s used in many CrossFit competitions. It can be used as a weightlifting barbell or for heavy power training. It doesn’t have aggressive knurling, but it isn’t likely to slip out of your hands. This barbell is suitable for all levels of training and could be the only barbell you buy for quite some time.

RELATED: Best Kettlebells for CrossFit, Beginners, and More

Best Multi-Purpose Barbell: PRx Men’s Olympic Elite Bar

PRx Men’s Olympic Elite Bar

• Material: Alloy steel with bright or black finish
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 907 kilograms (2,000 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 190,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.25 inches
• Knurling: Light/medium
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Pros

• Very durable
• Holds a lot of weight
• Self-lubricating bushings
• Bright zinc and black zinc finishes available

Cons

• Plates may not fit flush on sleeves
• No center knurl
• Light knurling

The PRx Men’s Olympic Barbell is a high-quality bar that will support lifters on everything from cleans to bicep curls. It will be a great addition to a garage gym or a commercial health club. The light to medium knurling pattern is great for beginners, but advanced trainees may want to use chalk to keep it in their hands if they plan on using it for heavy lifts. The self-lubricating bushings have been infused with oil, so they don’t need a lot of maintenance.

The barbell is available in two finishes: bright zinc and black zinc. The pressed bright zinc finish provides better rust resistance and gives the barbell a hard chrome look, while the black finish could be a good choice for those training only indoors.

Best Olympic Barbell: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar

Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar

• Material: Swedish steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: Unknown
• Tensile strength: 215,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.3 inches
• Knurling: Aggressive
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Pros

• Eight needle bearings
• Great choice for Olympic lifting
• 28-millimeter shaft diameter

Cons

• Not budget friendly
• Aggressive knurling may not suit beginners
• Not suitable for other strength sports

The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition bar is considered the premiere Olympic weightlifting bar. It’s specifically made for professional and top amateur Olympic lifters. It will hold as much weight as you can load on it, and the bearings provide a great spin. The whip this barbell provides can help lifters transition from the floor to the shoulders before beginning the jerk.

However, this is an expensive barbell because it’s certified by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). If you’re not training in the Olympic lifts or if you are working on a budget for your home gym, this won’t be the barbell for you.

Best Specialty Barbell: Kabuki Strength Transformer Bar

Kabuki Transformer Bar

• Material: Steel with foam padding
• Weight: 25 kilograms (55 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 544 kilograms (1,200 pounds)
• Tensile strength: Not listed
• Loadable sleeve length: 15.75 inches
• Knurling: None
• Warranty: Lifetime with conditions

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Pros

• 24 different positions available
• Pop pin for easy changes
• Thick padding for comfort

Cons

• Can only be used for squats
• Finish will fade sooner
• Stickers on brackets instead of paint

Specialty bars are barbells that are made for specific purposes. Examples may include the trap bar, EZ-curl bar, and safety squat bar. The Transformer Bar is an advanced version of the safety squat bar that allows you to perform multiple squat variations with one barbell. You can simply pull the pin and move it up or down to any of the available holes on both sides, and it’s like you’re performing a whole different version of this basic leg exercise. A lower setting can be a substitute for a traditional safety squat bar while a higher setting may make it feel more like a hip hinge. There is even a setting that can simulate a front squat. It will also fit in any squat rack as a traditional barbell would.

With the Transformer Bar, you also hold the handles in the front, which can help with shoulder issues. The padding will provide the comfort you need to squat without neck or upper back pain. This is a squat-only barbell and beginners with limited budgets may not have a need for it. Kabuki Strength suggests beginners can use it as well, but having a base knowledge of how to squat with a traditional barbell before moving up to a bar like this. However, advanced trainees can enjoy this one for a long time to come.

How We Chose the Best Barbells

Fitness enthusiasts choose barbells based on factors such as how they will be used, price, level of training, and how long they could last. A beginner would have no need to spend a lot of money on a bar for Olympic lifting just like a bodybuilder may not get as much out of a simple, basic version. The best barbell is going to be the one that best suits the owner’s personal needs.

Those were the factors considered in comprising this list as well. Everything from specs to the reputation of the company to the level of the trainee that would be using it are all factored in when putting together lists of quality home fitness equipment. The details are what make the barbell valuable to its owner, and we considered as many of them as possible.

Benefits of Training With a Barbell

A barbell can help you achieve any and all of your fitness goals. Barbell training can serve as a foundation of your overall fitness program. Lifters of all ages and experience can use barbells to get bigger, leaner, stronger, or faster. Barbells are more versatile than machines as well, plus they take up less space. Beyond that, they can serve athletes and beginners alike in multiple ways:

• Improved coordination
• Strength gains
• Overall health
• Improved stabilization and core strength

How To Take Care of a Barbell

A barbell is an investment, and you should pay attention to detail when it comes to taking care of it. That includes cleaning it regularly by wiping it down with basic soap and a cloth. You can also use a simple plastic or brass wire brush to get the chalk out of the grooves of the knurling. Doing this can also help prevent rust, which can negatively impact the life of your barbell.

What To Look For When Buying a Barbell

Buying a barbell shouldn’t be too difficult, but there are several components that should be considered. In order to purchase the best barbell for your personal training needs, think about the type of lifting you’ll be doing as well as the versatility of the bar itself. Also, are you the only person training or will multiple people be using it? Once you know those answers, consider the following factors as well.

Type of Barbell

The type of bar you want to use is important. Most barbells are made of steel, but some of them have different finishes that make them look better. Consider the climate you’re training in when looking for a training bar. If you plan on buying a barbell for outdoor training, or you will be using it in a humid garage or basement, then one with a color finish may not be the best choice because the elements can cause the coating to fade. You’ll want something with a steel or chrome finish. If you’re going to be using a barbell indoors exclusively that is climate controlled, then you can look at colors or specific finishes.

Bushings vs. Bearings

Bushings and bearings help the sleeve of the barbell spin as it’s moving so it can provide comfort for your wrists and elbows. Most barbells have bushings in them that are made of bronze, but some have bearings in them that maximize spin. If you’re going to be doing a lot of Olympic lifts and curls, then you may want to lean toward a bar that has high-quality bearings in them. If bushings are the way you need to go, bronze bushings that are self-lubricating will serve you well.

Weight Capacity

Most quality barbells are going to have a high weight capacity that you’re not likely to max out unless you’re training for world records. The weight capacity helps ensure that you won’t have to worry about the barbell bending permanently. Most bars have a capacity of over 1,000 pounds, while some have as much as 1,500 pounds.

Tensile Strength

Another way that companies promote the strength of their barbells is to share tensile strength, or the breaking point. If you see a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, that means it would take over 190,000 pounds per square inch to break that barbell into two. Clearly, the higher the tensile strength, the better. Most high-end barbells will have a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI or more.

Spin

Olympic barbells are supposed to spin, which is why the bearings or bushings are so important. If you’re training in CrossFit or Olympic lifting, where the bar will be moving intensely and changing positions throughout the lift, then you want a barbell that will spin very smoothly. If you’re a powerlifter or training for general fitness, with movements that are straight up and down, then this may not be as high of a priority.

Whip

The whip refers to the slight bend, or flex, in the barbell when you’re pulling or lifting it up. Powerlifters may want a barbell with a decent whip to help them when performing the deadlift. A women’s barbell may not have as much whip as the men’s version because women might not use as much weight when it comes to the super heavy lifts, but if you train for strength, a barbell with a good whip can be a game changer.

Knurling

Knurling is the grip on the shaft of the barbell. It helps the trainee hold the weight comfortably or prevent the barbell from slipping. The less aggressive the knurling, the more comfortable it may be. Lifters that are training with heavy weights may want more aggressive knurling so it doesn’t slip out of their hands. Most barbells have medium knurling, which is about the middle ground.

Diameter

There are two diameters of a barbell to consider: the shaft diameter and the sleeve diameter. The shaft is where you hold the bar, and it should be a size that can fit in the hand without you having to sacrifice grip. Most barbells have a 28- to 32-millimeter diameter, and women’s barbells are generally 25 millimeters.

The sleeve is where the weight plates go. Standard barbells have one-inch diameters while Olympic bars have 1.9- to two-inch diameters. Standard barbells won’t support as much weight as Olympic versions, which is why there are no standard bars on this list. In any event, you should make sure the barbell will support your weights before placing the order.

Warranty

It’s never fun to buy something and have to return it. It does happen, and that is why the company’s warranty matters. Some companies have a period of time that you can get your money back, but they will replace the barbell if you deal with damage that you shouldn’t have to, such as a bushing or bolt inside the sleeve breaking. Companies have their warranties on their sites, and you should look them over before hitting that order button.

Final Thoughts

A barbell may be a simple training tool, but it’s not easy to pick the best one for your home gym. A versatile barbell that can help you train in multiple disciplines can be a great asset. If you are focusing on a single form of training such as powerlifting or Olympic lifting, a barbell built for your sport can help maximize your potential.

This guide could help you find a quality barbell that is within your budget, serves your training needs, and helps you achieve your goals. We feel these barbells are the best of the best on the market, and they would be great to have on your power rack. Choosing the right barbell and taking proper care of it can go a long way in enhancing your home gym experience.

FAQs

The post Best Barbells for Powerlifting, CrossFit, Olympic Weightlifting, and More appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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To start a bodybuilding dynasty, an athlete must be meticulous about every aspect of their training. As the reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia champion (2019-2022), Chris Bumstead has undoubtedly locked his specific process down to a tee. With the athlete looking to add to his trophy case at this November’s Mr. Olympia, he recently offered clarity on an underrated aspect of his preparation — his recovery.

On July 10, 2023, YouTuber Chris Williamson shared an in-depth, two-hour-plus interview with Bumstead on his channel. The discussion covered a wide variety of subjects but most notably centered on how Bumstead fluctuates his all-important recovery process throughout the calendar year. Bumstead breaks down part of his consistent morning routine starting at 45:36, his thoughts on adequate recovery starting at 1:00:32, and a “champion mentality” beginning at 19:18 in the below video.

Even while accommodating a busy schedule that comes packaged with being a prolific bodybuilder, Bumstead maintained he tries to keep a few constants in his general morning routine. For one, cardio and breath work seem to be central focuses throughout the year. While Bumstead said he’d make slight adjustments here and there as they come, consistency is the name of the game for an athlete who wants to keep his Classic Physique throne.

A general set regimen seems to serve him well.

“Prep evolves, I’m very fluid,” Bumstead explained. My routines, depends on the time of the year, it’s just wherever I feel natural. I just kind of flow into that state … but in prep, I’ll wake up in the morning and usually do my breath work thing because I get sucked into that. At first I tried to do it for the mental health aspects and now it’s just to oxygenate my body before waking up doing cardio. After that I’ll usually sauna, cold tub, or combine it. Then cardio will be higher at that point and then I’ll go shower and eat.”

When it comes to optimizing his training and preparing his body for peak performance, Bumstead said he isn’t reinventing the wheel. Per the athlete, maximizing one’s output is about getting enough proper sleep no matter what, regardless of potential changes to one’s circadian rhythm.

“Sleep is probably the No. 1 thing,” Bumstead explained. “Whether it’s brain health, aging, or just high performance, sleep is one of the most important aspects anyone can have. You lose any bit of sleep you’re used to and your body just suffers more than you can even understand.” 

Bumstead also clarified that it’s essential to understand one’s personal training limitations.

At a certain point, going 100 miles per hour in the gym throughout the week might produce diminished returns. According to Bumstead, allowing the body appropriate rest and time away from dumbbells and barbells is just as important as regularly working out.

“At a point in my career when I was 21, I started to get more injuries, like adrenal fatigue almost, I trained six to seven days a week for three hours,” Bumstead said. “I felt like I needed to tone it back a bit … I noticed as I was pulling away from volume I actually started to progress more and feel better. Allowing myself to have more time to recover made me stronger.”

Beyond trying to win at all costs, Bumstead offered sound advice about success that could extend beyond the bodybuilding sphere. According to the superstar, he’s turned himself into a winner by wanting to triumph and accepting that sometimes he won’t always have ideal circumstances. Sometimes, he might be having a bad day, or he might not be feeling great.

In these moments, he chooses to plug away and work hard anyway.

This mentality of focusing despite any adversity might genuinely set Bumstead apart from his peers.

“… It’s accepting these fears, doubts I have, and everything that goes through my mind but regardless of that not quitting and not giving up on myself,” Bumstead said. “No matter how hard the time or what I’m going through, I’m still going to put in the same work regardless of how I feel. That’s a champion mentality.”

Featured image: @cbum on Instagram

The post Chris Bumstead Describes His Training Recovery Process appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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No doubt, summer arrives with its own rhythm, its own demands, and its own kind of freedom. Summer is an invitation to revitalize, rejuvenate, and redefine your fitness routine. As the mercury soars, the conventional gym walls might feel more like a prison cell than ever before. So, how about we shake things up a bit? Let’s break away from the conventional and immerse ourselves in a summer fitness experience like no other. Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey to the best shape of your life.

Here are my 6 basic principles for proper summer fitness.

Train Outside

You can certainly train in the gym during summer. I do a lot of my training in the gym, indoors, throughout all seasons. But gym training isn’t unique to summer. Plus, it’s the default option for most people. I’m trying to get you to try something you haven’t tried before, to train in a way you can’t always train.

Sure, if it’s 100 degrees out, you might want to do the gym. You might want to get some shade. But summer affords you the opportunity to train outside in most locales.

Train barefoot in your background or a park. If you have gym equipment, simply take it outside and do what you normally do in the garage, only on the grass or dirt.

Train in the forest. Climb trees, lift logs, throw boulders.

Train at the beach or at the lake or river. Bring a kettlebell out there and get to work.

Focus on Fun

The key to great summer fitness? Making it not just about the sweat and effort, but about the sheer joy of movement, the exhilaration of performance. Seeking healthy pleasure is a cornerstone of being human and thriving as a human. Pleasure is how our brain reward systems get us to do things that are good for us. Exercise is no different. If you make training fun, you actually look forward to it. You enjoy it in the moment, not just when it’s over.

And just because it’s fun doesn’t mean you’re not going to be working hard or getting a great training effect from it. It means the workout is intrinsically valuable in the moment, and therefore more sustainable.

The picture of this begins in your backyard, under the bright summer sun. In your hands, a kettlebell, that deceivingly simple yet incredibly effective piece of equipment. You swing it, lift it, press it, transforming each movement into an opportunity to build muscle, endurance, and strength. Each swing is met with a cool breeze, each lift underlined by the sun’s rays bestowing upon you a golden glow and a healthy dose of Vitamin D.

Transition your training ground from your yard to the vast, blue expanse of a lake or an ocean. Envision yourself gracefully cruising on a stand-up paddleboard, or perhaps navigating the waves in a kayak. It’s not just a workout; it’s an intimate connection with water, an element that has been entwined with our existence since evolutionary times. Comfort in water is a fitness staple, and summer is the ideal time to master it.

On dry land, there’s an entirely different adventure waiting for you. Picture yourself biking on winding trails or rollerblading down the coastline. Consider these not just as fitness tools, but as vessels of exploration. The goal isn’t merely to burn calories but to soak in the surroundings, to integrate with the elements, to experience the freedom that summer brings.

These tools – the humble kettlebell, your watercraft, and your chosen mode of land exploration – they are your partners in fitness, enabling you to tap into the unexplored power of outdoor training. What makes them special is that they aren’t just exercising equipment; they are a part of your summer fitness story, enhancing the quality of your workout and your overall experience.

Go on Adventures

Instead of just using the rower at the gym, go kayaking down the river, through some sea caves, or across the lake (for time, if you wish to increase the intensity). Or, as I do, paddle down Miami canals, often meeting dolphins and manatees along the way.

Instead of only walking on the treadmill, do a backpacking trek for a day or two. Carry your belongings up and down mountains, over boulders, through meadows and across rivers. You’ll log far more steps than you ever would on the treadmill while getting an incredible sensory experience out of it.

The gym is great. I use it myself all the time, no matter the season. But the point is to take your conventional gym training and use it to conquer the world and go on adventures.

Be Efficient

I’m not going to tell you what specific exercises to do. Deadlifts, squats, pull-ups, push-ups, presses, rows, swings, muscle ups, dips, lunges, step ups, hip thrusts… they’re all fantastic options. You know what you like to do. I am going to tell you to try being a bit more intuitive and “touchy feely” when you train. That’s what summer is: a season for intuition and feeling and spontaneity. Foster that summer spirit with your rep schemes.

Here’s what I mean.

Say you’re doing push-ups, kettlebell swings, pull-ups, and squats. Or dips, trap bar deadlifts, rows, and lunges. A push, a pull, a row, and a knee flexion.
Instead of hitting a set amount of reps, do the first exercise (push-ups) until you go just shy of failure. 2-3 reps left in the tank.

Move on to the next one (kettlebell swings) and do the same. Feel that deep burn but keep a few reps in the tank. When you’re ready, return to the first exercise and do the same. Then do the same for the next one.

When you’ve hit 3-4 sets of these, move on to the next two exercises and repeat the process.

You’re learning how to feel when you’ve approached your limit. You’re getting the training effect for your muscles but you’re also training your intuition. That’s summer.

Embrace the Elements

Summer, for all its joys, brings with it an intense heat. But instead of letting it bog you down, let it fuel you. Embrace the warmth, revel in the sweat. Get filthy, dirty, dusty, muddy. Summer is your chance to build heat tolerance and improve your overall fitness level.

It’s also the time to use water to your advantage. Whether it’s plunging through the waves at the beach, diving into a crystal clear alpine lake, swimming with (or against) the current in a river, or even doing laps and underwater pool workouts, the water is an entirely new playground for your fitness exploits.

Solar Training

When the sun climbs the sky, don’t hide indoors. Go outside and train in the oldest, biggest gym in the world. Soak up as much sunlight as you can, safely—don’t get burned, of course. It isn’t just a pathway to a glowing tan, nor is it only a source of vitamin D, which is a crucial prohormone involved in muscle protein synthesis, bone density accrual, and hormonal health. It also increases nitric oxide production, which can improve the transmission of oxygen and important nutrients to your muscles and other tissues as well as enhance the “pump” you get when you lift weights.Furthermore, training in hot weather can add an additional stressor—the heat—that can enhance the training effect. However it is a stressor and you may need more recovery from an outdoor sun drenched workout, but you can also derive greater benefits.

Just make sure that you stay hydrated. Add high quality salt to your water or make an electrolyte mix. I like to add a packet of LMNT to water plus collagen and creatine, then sip that before and during my workout. Hydration will improve not just your workouts but also your skin’s resistance to UV light.

In essence, summer fitness is about embracing the inherent power of the season—the heat, sunlight, sand, water, and the calming energy of nature.

Summer fitness is an exploration, an adventure. The sun-soaked season invites you to push beyond the typical, to break free from monotony and create a summer fitness routine that reflects the unique opportunities of the season. The world is your gym. Now go out there, embrace the heat, the sun, the water, and make your summer fitness journey an unforgettable one.

How do you approach fitness in summer? What are your basic summer fitness principles?

The post Summer Fitness Advice: Mark’s 6 Basic Principles appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.

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After dominating the CrossFit Games for over half a decade, Tia-Clair Toomey will not be a fixture at next month’s tentpole contest. Rather than earnestly prepare to extend her historic reign as a now-former six-time Fittest Woman on Earth®, Toomey was busy with motherhood and her first child. She took the 2023 season off accordingly to be with her family. With all this said, the icon hasn’t retired from competitive CrossFit and is already preparing for a return to glory soon enough.

On July 12, 2023, Toomey and her husband, Shane Orr — who is also the athlete’s trainer — posted a video to their joint YouTube channel featuring Toomey getting back into the thick of her training. While focusing on foundational movements, the most notable development in the clip might have been Toomey practicing her snatch movements for the first time since her pregnancy.

Before practicing her snatch, Toomey loosened up her lat muscles with some single-arm dead hangs on a pull-up bar. She followed those with a handstand walk warm-up. The focus of the foundational session — which was only three weeks into Toomey’s return — was more about polishing up technique rather than making any significant progressions forward.

Once it was time to snatch, Toomey performed a variation where her barbell was caught behind the neck in a traditional back squat stance. From this positioning, Toomey jerked overhead and then did overhead squats. After finishing her snatch practice, Toomey closed her workout with pull-ups, toes-to-bar, rope climbs, ring dips, and more handstand walks. The finisher was four 90-second rounds of cardio intervals on an Assault Bike.

The athlete would clarify that she felt her strength returning quickly despite being so early in the process of her return. That is not an insignificant development for an athlete with a prolific resume like Toomey.

For the time being, Toomey’s absence from the CrossFit Games leaves behind a massive chasm the other Women’s athletes will have to fill. However, with this glimpse at Toomey’s intense early preparation for next summer, whoever comes out on top in Madison, WI, next month might have a short reign as the new Fittest Woman on Earth®.

Featured image: Tia-Clair Toomey & Shane Orr on YouTube

The post Tia-Clair Toomey Works On Her Snatches For The First Time Post-Pregnancy appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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In the current strongman pantheon, Canada’s Mitchell Hooper is unquestionably the most dominant. The athlete is the reigning World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion and has, at minimum, finished on the podium in 10 consecutive strongman competitions. (Note: He has only competed in 11 professional contests.) The superstar is preparing to add even more to his trophy case very soon.

On July 12, 2023, Hooper appeared in a video on 2016 Europe’s Strongest Man (ESM) Laurence Shahlaei’s YouTube channel, where he documents part of his preparation for the 2023 Shaw Classic (SC). The contest takes place on August 19-20, 2023, in Loveland, CO. Shahlaei helps train Hooper in the video, and the workout has Hooper polishing up his bench press, log lift, sandbag throw, and chest press. At the approximate 13:10 mark of the video below, Hooper successfully locks out a 210-kilogram (463-pound), three-rep bench press for a new personal record (PR).

There is a completely bench press-centric event at the 2023 SC, making Hooper’s display of an upper-body milestone an excellent sign for his chances in the competition. In the sole SC appearance of his career in 2022, the strongman finished in third place to two-time defending champion Trey Mitchell (2021-2022) and the contest’s legendary eponymous competitor, Brian Shaw (second place).

Per Hooper, the bench press hasn’t usually been one of his strengths in the past.

“I’m probably the most nervous about this one (the Bench Press event) at the Shaw Classic,” Hooper explained. “I don’t think I’m a good bench presser. I think a lot of my overhead strength comes from my legs.”

Hooper had a three-contest winning streak to start the 2023 strongman season that was snapped with a third-place result at the 2023 Giants Live Strongman Classic (GLSC). The athlete will undoubtedly be seeking an emphatic way of putting himself back into the winner’s column at the 2023 SC. A Hooper win would also notably keep the iconic Shaw from a triumph in his last-ever strongman competition.

Hooper didn’t appreciate falling short at the 2023 GLSC:

“The longer the third place [at the 2023 GLSC] sits with me, the longer I [expletive] hate it,” Hooper said. “Losing really doesn’t really sit right with me.”

Here’s the roster of strongman competitors at the 2023 SC, including Hooper:

2023 Shaw Classic Roster

• Trey Mitchell (United States) — Reigning two-time Champion
• Brian Shaw (United States) — 2022 runner-up
• Mitchell Hooper (Canada) — 2022 third place
• Tom Stoltman (United Kingdom)
• Luke Stoltman (United Kingdom)
• Oleksii Novikov (Ukraine)
• Bobby Thompson (United States)
• Adam Bishop (United Kingdom)
• Graham Hicks (United Kingdom)
• Pavlo Nakonechnyy (Ukraine)
• Thomas Evans (United States)
• Maxime Boudreault (Canada)
• Kevin Faires (United States)
• Aivars Šmaukstelis (Latvia)
• Evan Singleton (United States)
• *Gavin Bilton (United Kingdom) | *Replaces Mateusz Kieliszkowski

Of the overall 2023 SC roster, Hooper figures to be one of the favorites alongside Mitchell and Shaw. Dark horses might include former two-time WSM champion Tom Stoltman and 2020 WSM champion Oleksii Novikov.

No matter what happens at the 2023 SC, Hooper has firmly established himself as a household name in strongman. Part of what makes him so great is that he will likely push full throttle for another victory regardless of a well-earned reputation.

Featured image: Big Loz Official on YouTube

The post Mitchell Hooper Records 210-Kilogram (463-Pound) 3-Rep Bench Press PR appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Izzy Tait and Louis Jack are the respective champions of the 2023 Ultimate Scotland’s Strongest Woman (USSW) and Man (USSM). The contests took place on July 2, 2023, in Grangemouth, United Kingdom, and featured eight strongwoman competitors and 12 strongmen. Both rosters had a docket of five events to tackle en route to the titles Tait and Jack eventually took home themselves.

According to her resume on Strongman Archives, this is Tait’s first career strongwoman win after finishing in the top five at the 2022 and 2023 UK’s Strongest Woman (UKSW). On the strongman side, Jack also captured his first-ever professional victory per Strongman Archives, with a runner-up performance at the 2022 UK’s Strongest Man (UKSM) serving as his previous highlight.

Here are the final standings for the 2023 USSW:

2023 Ultimate Scotland’s Strongest Woman Final Standings

1. Izzy Tait — 37 points
2. Laura Baxter — 32.5 points
3. Hayley Black — 23 points
4. Steffi Murray — 20.5 points
5. Sammy Mayhew — 20.5 points
6. Anastasia Papas — 17.5 points
7. Dianne Gaughan — 14.5 points
8. Rosslyn Cole — 13.5 points

Here are the final standings for the 2023 USSM:

2023 Ultimate Scotland’s Strongest Man Final Standings

• Louis Jack — 54 points
• Chris Beetham — 53 points
• Callum Crozier — 50 points
• Stephen Jackson — 36 points
• Lee Walker — 32.5 points
• Connor Monaghan — 32 points
• Scott Milne — 29 points
• Liam Goldie — 23 points
• Peej Greenhough — 23 points
• Leon Patterson — 14.5 points
• Robert McMillan — 13 points
• Mikey Wilson — 4 points

The strongwomen had these five events: Duck Walk for Time, Max Deadlift, Log Lift for Reps, Hornetop Hold for Time, and the Atlas Stones. Tait won the Max Deadlift (250 kilograms/551.1 pounds) and the Log Lift for Reps (18), finishing as the runner-up in the three other events to secure her victory. Tait scored 37 of a possible 40 points.

The strongmen’s events were as follows: Duck Walk for Time, Car Deadlift for Reps, Block Medley Press, Truck Push, Atlas Stones. Jack won the Block Medley Press (four in 42.72 seconds and the Truck Push (31.7 meters) en route to his one-point triumph for the USSM title.

The USSW and USSM aren’t necessarily tentpole competitions in strongwoman and strongman. Nonetheless, getting on the board with their first victories is notable momentum for Tait and Jack as they continue their careers.

Featured image: @izzy_tait_strongwoman on Instagram

The post 2023 Ultimate Scotland’s Strongest Woman and Man Results —  Izzy Tait, Louis Jack Prevail appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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On July 5, 2023, strongwoman Lucy Underdown shared an eye-opening update on her strongwoman training progress. In an Instagram clip, the athlete captures a 280-kilogram (617.3-pound) deadlift for four reps. According to the caption of her post, this lift was a new quadruple personal record (PR) for Underdown. The athlete wore a lifting belt and utilized lift straps to help with the massive deadlift. In her socks, she also completed the pull from a conventional stance with a traditional grip.

What might make Underdown’s feat more impressive is how the athlete downplayed her mindset beforehand. Underdown wrote that having two bumper plates (four total) on her loaded barbell wasn’t a deadlift set-up she was accustomed to. Plus, there weren’t any collars where Underdown was training, meaning her weight wouldn’t stay steady and even as she worked toward a full lockout. In addition, the strongwoman was apparently “under the weather,” casting doubt on whether she’d come close to the new PR.

Despite all these elements of adversity, it could be a testament to Underdown’s unique power that she managed to transcend and finish off the quadruple set anyway.

It should be no surprise that Underdown notched this four-rep PR. At the time of this article’s publication, the athlete holds the strongwoman deadlift World Record of 300 kilograms (662 pounds) from the 2023 Arnold UK Pro Strongwoman contest. Underdown also possesses the Kratos bar deadlift World Record of 305 kilograms (672.4 pounds), which she set at the 2023 UK’s Strongest Woman. A Kratos bar is characterized by its extended 10-foot length, creating an additional “flex” for athletes when pulling their weight from the ground.

Underdown has already laid out her upcoming competitive schedule. She will be a participant in each of the upcoming 2023 Europe’s Strongest Woman, the 2023 Britain’s Strongest Woman, and the 2023 England’s Strongest Woman contests. To date, the athlete is still seeking her first-ever professional strongwoman victory, having finished as the runner-up at the 2023 UKSW. Nevertheless, she will likely shine based on her precedent.

That’s because regardless of any presented obstacles, Underdown continues to distinguish herself as deadlift royalty.

Featured image: @lucyunders_strongwoman on Instagram

The post Lucy Underdown Crushes a 280-Kilogram (617.3-Pound) Deadlift 4-Rep PR appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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If you feel like your home workouts are getting a little monotonous, it’s time to switch some things up. Adding some versatility can help you stay consistent, but you might feel limited if your home gym space is on the smaller side. In addition, let’s face it, high-quality home gym equipment isn’t very budget-friendly. Therefore, what are your options when you want something inexpensive, fairly small, and that gives you flexibility with your full-body workouts?

We’ve found that resistance bands are an excellent choice for beginners and advanced trainees alike. You can incorporate them into your strength training routines and cardio sessions and bring them along with you when you’re on the go. However, not all resistance bands are alike. This is exactly why we’ve created our top picks for the best resistance bands.

So keep reading to find one that fits your preferences and doesn’t take up a lot of space!

Our Top Picks for the Best Resistance Bands

• Best Resistance Bands Set: Living.Fit Resistance Bands
• Best Resistance Bands With Handles: REP Fitness Tube Resistance Bands
• Best Resistance Bands for Building Muscle: Rogue Fitness Monster Bands
• Best Looped Resistance Bands: Titan Fitness Loop Resistance Band Multi-Pack
• Best Resistance Bands for Bodybuilding: Living.Fit Camo Resistance Bands
• Best Resistance Bands for Seniors: Gritin Resistance Bands
• Best Resistance Bands on Amazon: Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands
• Best Fabric Resistance Bands: Arena Strength Fabric Booty Bands

Best Resistance Bands Set: Living.Fit Resistance Bands

Living.Fit Resistance Bands

• Can buy a set of four, a set of six, or individual bands
• Loop-style design and 41-inch length
• Resistance levels range from five to 200 pounds
• Lifetime warranty

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Pros

• Includes door anchor and carrying case
• Four to six different resistance levels 
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Doesn’t have handles
• Unable to buy the bands in pairs 
• Bands not labeled with the resistance level

If your resistance training routine includes doing lots of pull-ups, you will want a set of resistance bands that can perform proficiently. After all, the last thing you want to worry about while doing upper body exercises is if your resistance bands can withstand the pressure. But is it really possible to find something that’s compact, affordable, and durable? 

Well, the Living.Fit Resistance Bands may check all of those boxes.

You can purchase them as a set of four for $29.99 or six for $79.99, which is quite impressive, especially considering their practically unheard-of levels of resistance. The lightest band offers approximately five pounds of resistance, and the heaviest one offers 200 pounds of resistance. Given their range, these bands could be a good choice for someone who doesn’t quite know what they need yet or someone more advanced.

The Living.Fit Resistance Bands come with a door anchor so that you can do various push-pull exercises. However, what’s inconvenient about these bands is that you can’t buy them in pairs. For instance, if you wanted to add some bands to a barbell, you’d need to buy another set or an individual band. One other thing that’s a bit of a nuisance is that the resistance level isn’t labeled on the band, so you’d need to look it up each time until you memorize it.

While these certainly aren’t the cheapest bands on the block, they’re still a reasonable price considering what you get. They’re high quality and don’t have the rubber smell many bands come with, which is a bonus. And we can’t forget about the lifetime warranty either. If a band snaps, Living.Fit will replace it!

Best Resistance Bands With Handles: REP Fitness Tube Resistance Bands

REP Fitness Tube Resistance Bands

• Material: Latex rubber
• Style: Tube bands
• Amount of resistance: Light, medium, heavy
• Length: Not listed

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Pros

• Budget-friendly 
• Three levels of resistance 
• No rubber smell

Cons

• Small handles 
• Unknown pounds of resistance 
• Less-than-ideal quality

Do you need low-cost rubber bands for warm-ups, stretching, and rehabilitation? If yes, the REP Fitness Tube Resistance bands might be a good choice for you. For just $25, you’ll get a set that lets you do different exercises that strengthen multiple muscle groups.

These tube bands provide three different levels of resistance: light, medium, and heavy. Each one is a different color so you can identify the level of tension. The nine-millimeter blue band provides light resistance, the 12-millimeter orange band bears medium resistance, and the heaviest band (13.5 millimeters) is black.

However, one flaw is that it’s still unclear how much tension you’re getting, as REP Fitness hasn’t disclosed this information. It also would’ve been helpful if the bands were labeled for easier identification.

One of the most appealing features, especially for someone looking to do bicep curls, is the band’s handles. Unfortunately, many may find these grip handles underwhelming. They’re not very ergonomically made, as they are small and not very grippy. As a result, they won’t feel as secure in your hands as you’d probably expect.

In addition, given their price point, you have to question the quality, and reasonably so. Although they’re said to be heavy-duty, the materials feel as though they were made at a bargain.

Nonetheless, if you’re a beginner or recovering from an injury and just need something that’ll get the job done, these will do. Plus, they don’t have that strong latex smell many bands are often known for.

RELATED: Best Kettlebells for Home Gyms

Best Resistance Bands for Building Muscle: Rogue Fitness Monster Bands

Rogue Fitness Monster Bands

• Material: Natural latex rubber 
• Style: Loop bands
• Amount of resistance: 15 to 200 pounds
• Length: 41 inches

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Pros

• Purchasable as a set, pair, and individually 
• High-quality natural latex 
• Eight bands to choose from
• Durable

Cons

• Pricier
• Overwhelming rubber smell

If you ask me, the Rogue Monster Bands have something to offer everyone. Whether you want to use them in your home gym or place them in your gym bag, these latex bands should deliver. With eight bands that span between 15 and 200 pounds of tension, you’ve got choices, and you’re not forced to buy a set. I like that you can buy a single band or get a pair, as that allows you to really customize it to your needs.

For example, if you’re looking for beginner-friendly bands or some ideal bands for pull-up assistance, their 15 to 50-pound mini bands should do the trick. For lower body workouts, like squats and those targeting the calves, hamstrings, and glutes, the 65- to 100-pound bands would be best. Then, the much heavier 140- to 200-pound bands are nice to pair with barbells for deadlifts.

These are the type of resistance bands you should be able to count on for a long time. They’re not poorly made, so you shouldn’t have to worry about them cracking or splitting.

However, as you might imagine, a higher price tag is attached to reflect the quality. Depending on the resistance level, one band could cost you between $15.50 and $61. To be honest, you can get a set of four resistance bands for less than the price of one of their resistance bands, as most sets cost between $20 and $80. But even considering that, they’re still more cost-effective and space-saving than getting free weights.

Rogue also lets you buy additional accessories to take your workout experience to the next level. They’ve got a door strap and handle you can purchase as add-ons, so you can use the bands in any room of your home with a sturdy door for stretching and mobility work.

Best Looped Resistance Bands: Titan Fitness Loop Resistance Band Multi-Pack

Titan Fitness Loop Resistance Band Multi Pack

• Material: Latex rubber 
• Style: Loop bands
• Amount of resistance: 15 to 120 pounds
• Length: 12 inches

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Pros

• Comes with eight bands
• Thicker than other bands 
• One-year warranty

Cons

• Pungent latex smell 
• Less exercise variability

The Titan Fitness Loop Resistance Bands are thick, well-made, and a good value for resistance band training. For less than $60, you get four pairs of non-slip bands that come with a one-year warranty. This speaks highly to Titan’s belief in its product, as you won’t find warranty coverage too often for bands.

These loop bands are color-coded for easy identification. Start with the red bands if you’re a beginner and/or doing physical therapy and looking for light resistance, like 15 to 30 pounds. When you’re ready to advance or implement calisthenics, move on to the black bands with 40 to 70 pounds of resistance. You could use the 60 to 100-pound purple bands for strength training with heavy resistance or the 70 to 120-lb green bands for advanced resistance training.

You can do many resistance band exercises with the Titan Fitness bands, but they are somewhat limiting. For example, you could use them with no problem during pilates and yoga, but I wouldn’t buy these if I wanted to do pull-ups. The bands are only 12 inches long, which is a little short. One user even stated that getting these over their shoes is challenging, which slows down their workout. Therefore, if you want bands for pull-up assistance, look for some that are at least 41 inches long.

Besides the noticeable latex smell, which should go away over time, and having slightly less exercise versatility, these bands are built to last. Titan Fitness even claims they have wear-resistant performance, so they shouldn’t lose their elasticity for a while.

Best Resistance Bands for Bodybuilding: Living.Fit Camo Resistance Bands

Living.Fit Camo Resistance Bands

• Material: Synthetic rubber
• Style: Pull-up bands
• Amount of resistance: 5 to 125 pounds
• Length: 81.9-inches (41-inches when the band is held with one end in each hand)

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Pros

• Non-latex
• Multiple resistance options
• Includes door anchor and carrying case
• Cost-effective

Cons

• Cannot purchase individually
• No handles

If you’re a fan of camo, you’re in luck. These bands sport a cool design that is sure to stand out in your home gym or gym bag. In addition to their interesting aesthetic, they’re also fairly affordable. For less than $35, you’re getting a set of four durable bands. That’s basically like paying $8 to $9 per band. This is a reasonable price, especially considering how expensive buying fixed or adjustable dumbbells would be.

Each band is 81.9 inches long, but if you hold an end in each hand, it’ll be 41 inches on each side. That’s a lot of length, and this is what makes the bands ideal for doing pull-ups. Despite having different widths, such as the lightest one being 0.5 inches and the heaviest being 1.7 inches, they’re all 3.2 millimeters thick. Similar bands are around 4.5 millimeters thick, so these are on the thinner side.

The Living.Fit Camo Resistance Bands set pretty much caters to all fitness levels, but more advanced trainees might want something different, as the heaviest tension level is 125 pounds. This would fall short if you want a band with up to 200 pounds of tension.

However, this isn’t to say you couldn’t still get a good workout in. With four different resistance levels that range between five and 125 pounds, you’ve got options. For instance, the light resistance red camo band can be used for stretching and increasing your range of motion, while the black camo and purple camo bands can be used for speed training and curls. The green camo band has between 50 to 125 pounds of resistance, which can be great for lower body exercises, giving you versatility.

I also can’t forget to mention that these bands are made with synthetic rubber, so those with latex allergies still have a good option. It’s neat, too, that these come with a door anchor and carrying case, making them easily portable and giving you options for where you can use them.

Best Resistance Bands for Seniors: Gritin Resistance Bands

Gritin Exercise Bands Loop Bands

• Material: Natural latex
• Style: Loop band
• Amount of resistance: Light to XX-heavy 
• Length: ‎23.62 inches

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Pros

• Resistance level marked 
• Priced under $10
• Very compact 
• Comes with a carrying bag

Cons

• Somewhat flimsy and not ideal for strength training
• Limited exercise options 
• Strong latex smell

As we age, our joints may become less flexible, which can limit our range of motion. However, using resistance bands, like the ones by Gritin, can help minimize the impact of such age-related changes.

Gritin Resistance Bands are some of the most affordable on the market. For almost $9, you’ll get five color-coded bands that are super lightweight and easily portable. The tension ranges from light to XX-heavy, but it’s not exactly clear how much tension in pounds that translates to. While that’s a bummer, the bands still stand out in other ways, such as being extremely beginner-friendly and easy to use.

Another factor that stands out to me is that these bands are clearly marked with their resistance level. Some of the most expensive bands on the market don’t have this feature, so it’s neat to see it here. This takes the guesswork out of the equation, allowing you to focus more on just completing your home workouts.

If you want to build muscle, these aren’t the resistance bands for you. They’re a bit too thin and flimsy to be used for advanced strength training. You could do exercises such as front squats with them, but you do have to worry about the bands slipping and riding up. In addition, at just over 21 inches long, they’re a little on the shorter side, limiting what exercises you can do. 

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a set of bands that won’t break the bank, these could be a decent choice. Sure, you’re not going to get top-quality material, but they could suffice. You might also have to bare with their strong latex smell, but you could try setting the bands outside for a couple of days to see if that’ll air them out or wash them with mild dish soap.

Best Resistance Bands on Amazon: Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands

Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands

• Material: Natural latex rubber 
• Style: Loop bands
• Amount of resistance: Two to 30 pounds
• Length: 12 inches

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Pros

• Different color options 
• Affordable 
• Good value for the price
• Includes instruction guide

Cons

• Rolls up easily 
• Sticky 
• Tears easily

Amazon has become a go-to retailer for a lot of us, so naturally, if you need resistance bands, you’ll probably look there first. However, if you type “resistance bands” into the search bar, you’ll see several pages worth of options. And with so many choices, how in the world are you supposed to choose?

Well, to make it easier, we’ve identified the Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands as the best resistance bands from Amazon. 

For less than $13, you’ll get a set of five elastic bands. They’re color-coded and have three different color options to choose from. For instance, there’s one set with an assortment of colors, including blue, green, yellow, black, and red. The other choices are berry and pink. 

Conveniently, each band’s resistance level is labeled and ranges from x-light to x-heavy. 

In my opinion, it would’ve been even better if the Fit Simplify brand had also added the pounds of tension to the bands. However, for the price, it’s good enough. 

The amount of resistance each band provides is below:

• X-light – two to four pounds
• Light – six to eight pounds
• Medium – 10 to 12 pounds
• Heavy band – 15 to 20 pounds
• X-heavy – 25 to 30 pounds

You could also stack them to get a total of 74 pounds of resistance. These admittedly don’t pack a lot of tension compared to other bands, but if you’re a beginner or getting physical therapy, these should suffice. 

Many consumers seem satisfied with the bands, noting that they’re good quality and very durable. But don’t expect these bands to last a very long time. While it depends on what you use the bands for and how often you use them, you may get one to two years of use out of them.

Best Fabric Resistance Bands: Arena Strength Fabric Booty Bands

Arena Strength Fabric Booty Bands

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Loop bands
• Amount of resistance: Light, medium, and heavy (23 to 55 pounds)
• Length: 25 inches

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Pros

• Includes workout guide 
• 12-month warranty 
• Good quality 
• Unbreakable

Cons

• Too small for some
• Not enough tension for advanced trainees

Some of us want to work on our arms, and some of us want to work on our calves. However, others are very clear that they want to do resistance band exercises for glute activation. The Arena Strength Fabric Booty Bands may be ideal for those looking to enhance their lower body. 

For $29, you’ll get three bands. You can select the pack with gray, blue, and black bands or the one with pink, gray, and black bands. Each band is the same size, but they have different resistance levels. The gray band is 23 to 33 pounds, the pink and blue bands are 34 to 44 pounds, and the black band is 45 to 55 pounds. Some people may find that this isn’t enough pounds of tension to help them meet their needs, but they’re good for light warm-up exercises or beginner-friendly workouts.

What really makes these bands different from many others is that they’re made with fabric — cotton, to be specific. Their triple-stitched interface makes them practically unbreakable, and they also don’t roll. This is important, as some other bands tend to slip when you’re doing lunges, hip extensions, deadlifts, and more. Latex grips are sewn inside the bands to help them stay in place. 

This set includes a 15-page workout guide that was developed by CrossFit coaches. You also get a handy-dandy carrying case so you can bring them with you when you’re on the go. What’s even better is that these bands come with a 12-month replacement warranty. Therefore, if you’re not satisfied, the company will give you your money back.

One complaint that some users had is that the bands are too small if you’re not skinny. These bands are 25 inches in loop diameter, which is a little on the short side. If you fear that that size wouldn’t work for you, Arena Strength offers longer bands that are 42 inches long.

RELATED: Best Home Gym Machines on the Market

How We Chose the Best Resistance Bands

At Breaking Muscle, we underwent a tedious process to identify which bands were the best of the best. First, we considered what we’d heard from members of the fitness community, as people who work out will tell you what they did and didn’t like about a product. In addition to that, we perused the internet to identify what resistance bands consumers seemed to gravitate towards. Then, once we completed our list, we began sifting out what didn’t make the cut.

Many factors went into which resistance bands would remain on the top-pick list. For instance, we wanted to ensure something for everyone, so we aimed to include bands at different price points. After all, we’re all working with different budgets. Being mindful of the various resistance levels out there was critical as well. You may need more or fewer pounds of tension depending on your fitness goals and health. We also couldn’t forget about the material, as some users are allergic to latex.

All of these factors helped us narrow it down to the list we’ve presented here.

Benefits of Resistance Bands

If you’re in the process of buying equipment that you can utilize during your home workouts, resistance bands are a great choice. Here are a few reasons why you should add these to the cart.

Beginner and Advanced Trainee Friendly

When you’re new to working out, resistance bands are one of the least intimidating pieces of fitness equipment you’ll come across. You can use them while standing up and sitting down, thus catering to where you are in your journey. For advanced trainees, like those doing calisthenics, strength training, and pull-ups, these small but mighty things will make you sweat.

A Cost-Effective Choice

On average, dumbbells cost about $1 to $2 per pound, which can add up very quickly. So if you wanted two 50-pound dumbbells, you’d likely be out $100. Even with the best-quality resistance bands, you won’t experience that. As you saw above, you can easily get a set of four to six bands for under $100. Some of these bands even have 200 pounds of tension. Therefore, they’re a great choice if you’re on a budget for your home gym.

Compact But Challenging

Besides resistance bands, where else will you find 200 pounds of tension that you can toss in your bag without it weighing you down? These bands are incredibly lightweight and portable, making them an obvious choice when you want something you can take along with you when you travel or do workouts at the park.

What To Look For When Buying Resistance Bands

Buying resistance bands should be a very intentional process. I can still clearly remember the first time I bought a set. Honestly, they were very cheap, so I shouldn’t have been shocked at how flimsy they were. They kept rolling up while I did squats, and after a few months, one of them eventually snapped and popped me right on the thigh. I was also repulsed by the strong latex smell and powdery residue on the bands. This experience initially led me to believe all resistance bands were like that, but that’s not true. So, here’s what you need to look for!

Price

Before you go searching for resistance bands, the first thing you need to decide is how much you’re willing to spend. Once you’ve determined your budget, get an idea of how many bands you want. Do you wish to purchase them individually or as a pair? Are you looking for a set of four to eight, or do you want a single band? Whatever you come up with, keep that and the price in mind as you shop around. 

Do understand that cheaper bands aren’t going to have the best quality, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get the job done. The list above includes a set of bands as low as $9 and even some that are almost $80. Consumers have gotten immense value out of bands at every price point.

Materials

Raise your hand if you have a latex allergy. If you do, you’ll want to be extra cautious, as most bands are made with latex. For an option that doesn’t cause an allergic reaction, opt for bands made with synthetic rubber, like the Living.Fit Camo Resistance Bands.

Style

An elementary mistake to make on your hunt for resistance bands is assuming that they’re all the same. However, they most definitely are not. 

Loop bands, like those provided by Titan Fitness and Fit Simplicity, are flat and form a continuous loop. They can be used for upper body and lower body movements. Typically, the lighter resistance bands are used for the upper body, and the heavier ones are used for squats and other lower body exercises.

There are also tube bands, like the ones created by REP Fitness. These have handles on each end, which are helpful for new trainees. In addition, tube bands are great for enhancing your range of motion if you’re doing physical therapy.

Pull-up bands, like the regular Living.Fit resistance bands, tend to be best for upper body movements. If you’re trying to improve your bodyweight training routine, these should help. They’re often lengthier and will be about 41 inches long, compared to others that are only 12 inches long.

Amount of Resistance Provided

Another factor you must consider when hunting for resistance bands is the amount of resistance provided. Some people like to buy a set that includes a range of different resistance levels. This is ideal if you’re completely new to resistance bands and want something that can grow with you.

You also have to ask yourself what workouts you plan on doing. If you’re doing rehabilitation, maybe extra light bands that provide five to 10 pounds of resistance are better. But if you’re doing advanced strength training, you’ll probably want the extra heavy ones that offer 100 pounds of resistance. Be realistic about your needs so you can get an option that works for you.

Best Resistance Band Workouts

What I love most about resistance bands is their versatility. Here are some workouts you can do with this multifunctional item.

• Variable resistance training – This is when you add an elastic band to your bar before you lift. Banded deadlifts and bench presses are excellent examples of this.
• Yoga – You could implement bands while doing the downward-facing dog or plank.  
• Pilates – Do leg openers by looping a band around your ankles while lying on your side. 
• Bicep curls – To do this, grab some resistance bands with handles. You’ll want to stand on the center of the band while keeping handles at your side, then slowly curl your hands up to your shoulders. 
• Lateral raise – With your feet shoulder-width apart, stand on the center of the bands, hold the ends of the band in each of your hands, and raise your arms out to the sides. They should be parallel to the ground. 
• Push-ups – To complete a banded push-up, you’ll want to place the band behind your back, under your arms, and then loop it through the palm of your hands. 
• Glute bridges – Simply put the band around both of your thighs (ideally right above the knees) and, while lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, raise your hips toward the sky. 
• Tricep kickback – These are best done with a resistance band set that includes a door anchor and handles. Secure the bands to the anchor, and bend at the knees while keeping your back flat. Then pull the bands back with your forearms. 
• Bent-over row – Stand in the center of the bands while slightly bending forward. Grab the bands on both sides and lift the bands up towards your upper rib. Lower them and repeat.

Final Thoughts

For those looking for budget-friendly equipment that lets you take your resistance training routine to the next level, consider resistance bands. However, don’t go shopping for just any bands. Consider our top picks above for the best resistance bands to help you make your decision. 

We’ve already done the heavy lifting for you by considering the different price points, materials, styles, and more. Therefore, all you’ve got to do is determine which one of these is best for you.

For under $100, you can totally advance your cardio and strength training sessions. So, which ones are you going to go with?

FAQs

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Chances are, when powerlifter Nabil Lahlou loads up his barbell with an unfathomable amount of weight, he’s going to make jaws drop to the floor. The athlete’s latest remarkable feat in a sanctioned competitive context was no different.

On July 8, 2023, during the 2023 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) Drug Tested Give Me Liberty or Give Me Chaos, Lahlou successfully locked out a 342.4-kilogram (755-pound) top raw deadlift. The mark is an official drug-tested World Record in Lahlou’s 75-kilogram weight class, helping him to a first-place performance. The deadlift surpasses Taylor Atwood’s previous record by 1.9 kilograms (4.4 pounds). Atwood notched the past benchmark of 340.4 kilograms (750.6 pounds) at the 2021 USA Powerlifting (USAPL) Raw Nationals. Lahlou wore just a lifting belt for assistive equipment on his deadlift and completed it from a sumo stance with a traditional grip.

In addition to his new World Record pull, Lahlou captured respective all-time drug-tested competition bests on his squat (252.5 kilograms/556.6 pounds), his bench press (140 kilograms/308.6 pounds), and his final total (735 kilograms/1,620.4 pounds).

Here’s an overview of the athlete’s complete performance at the WRPR-organized competition:

Nabil Lahlou (75KG) | 2023 WRPF Drug Tested Give Me Liberty or Give Me Chaos Top Stats

• Squat — 252.5 kilograms (556.6 pounds) | All-Time Drug-Tested Competition Best
• Bench Press — 140 kilograms (308.6 pounds) | All-Time Drug-Tested Competition Best
• Deadlift — 342.4 kilograms (755 pounds) | All-Time Drug-Tested World Record
• Total — 735 kilograms/1,620.4 pounds | All-Time Drug-Tested Competition Best

Even though he’s still in his early 20s, Lahlou is no stranger to rewriting the record books with his pulling prowess. Per the Open Powerlifting database, the powerlifter is the all-time raw deadlift World Record holder in the 67.5-kilogram weight class with a pull of 322.5 kilograms (711 pounds) at the 2022 WRPF The Freaks Come Out At Night.

To date, according to his personal page on Open Powerlifting, Lahlou can boast 15 victories as an Open and Juniors competitor in a career that began in November 2020. Lahlou has fallen short of a win on four occasions and has only competed raw at the time of this writing.

There’s no doubt Lahlou has established himself as a young dynamo in strength sports, especially when it comes to deadlifting. The athlete hasn’t yet announced his upcoming competitive plans but seems certain to put on a show whenever they arrive.

Featured image: @nabil_lahlou on Instagram

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On July 10, 2023, World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion Mitchell Hooper posted a video to his YouTube channel featuring a leg-training session with strength sports icon Nick Best. After some warm-ups and deliberative conversation with his eventual spotter in Hooper, the 54-year-old Best successfully locks out a 364.2-kilogram (802.9-pound) back squat with wraps starting at around the 4:45 mark in the video. According to Best in the video, it is now the 27th consecutive year that the athlete has squatted at least this much weight for one rep. In a post on his Instagram, Hooper called it an “absolute privilege” to watch Best continue his personal tradition.

“That makes 27 years now. The first time was in 1996.”

Best wore a lifting belt, knee sleeves, and wrist wraps to help him with his squatting achievement. Such an equipment set-up would count under a “Wraps” qualification in a sanctioned powerlifting context. Best remains an active professional powerlifter but retired from competitive strongman in November 2022.

After finishing his squat, Best and Hooper would spend the remainder of their session performing some deadlifts. At the peak of their pulling segment, Best repped out 227 kilograms (500.4 pounds), while Hooper worked with 275 kilograms (606.2 pounds). Best wore a lifting belt and lifting straps for his deadlifts, while Hooper appeared to have just utilized lifting straps.

Best’s latest milestone squat comes on the heels of the athlete pushing himself full throttle approximately a half year after a nephrectomy — the surgical removal of a kidney. In April 2023, Best shared footage of himself performing seated iso lateral rows with the highest weight of 244.9 kilograms (540 pounds) for eight repetitions. Then, roughly a month later, in late May 2023, Best recorded a 350-kilogram (771.6-pound) squat with wraps.

If the athlete had seen any ill effects from his surgery recovery, it wasn’t apparent with these two training tidbits. It also certainly isn’t evident if Best can squat the same weight he’s been squatting for nearly three decades.

At this stage in the year, it seems the legend is back to his customary full strength.

At the time of this article’s publication, according to his personal page on Open Powerlifting, it has been over a year since Best last competed in a powerlifting contest. The athlete has not yet announced when he will compete again but does not appear to have ruled out a return. Best may be waiting to recuperate completely before making any commitments — a logical bet that seems to be working out with flying colors in the gym.

Featured image: @nickbeststrongman on Instagram

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