or an extensive set of free weights, we recommend throwing in a few bands
for variety. (Just know that bands and tubes have their limitations, which we
explain in Chapter 13.)
Bands are flat latex strips about 6 inches wide and about 3 feet long, some
with handles attached; you hold onto each end or tie the ends around some-
thing sturdy, like the leg of your sofa. Tubes come in a variety of sizes and are
shaped like very flexible garden hoses, usually with plastic or rubber handles
attached. You’ll probably like bands for some exercises and tubes for others;
you just have to experiment. Because bands and tubes are so inexpensive, it
pays to get a variety.
For a few dollars more, you can buy bands or tubes with plastic or rubber
handles — a real plus for getting a firm grip on an exercise. Some bands or
tubes have built-in ankle and thigh straps. Theraband and LifeLine make nifty
band kits that come with a travel bag and several door and bar attachments,
priced from $30 to $60. Spri and DynaBand also make quality bands. Because
some bands don’t come with instructions, we recommend buying a couple of
DVDs with band workouts. The following instructors offer quality band work-
outs: Lynn Brick, Jodi Cohen, David Essel, Donna Richardson, Keli Roberts,
and Tamilee Webb.
You also can buy band loops with little foam circles of padding, but you don’t
really need them. You can just tie your regular band in a circle, which is even
more versatile because you can control the diameter of the circle. The smaller
the circle, the tighter the tension. You can use a circle to do a number of leg
exercises and a few upper-body exercises, too.
Two cautions regarding the use of bands: Check frequently for holes and
tears by holding your bands up to the light. When a band is damaged, replace
it immediately. And never try to use regular office rubber bands — even thick
ones — for exercising. You’re just asking to be snapped in the face.
Ankle weights
Ankle weights are great for making floor exercises (like leg lifts) tougher. You’ll
probably want ankle weights if you like body-sculpting exercise DVDs because
at some point, lifting your own body weight will become too easy. As with
dumbbells, you can buy an array of ankle weights, from 2 pounds up to 20
pounds. Or you can buy an adjustable set: You insert small weight bars into
pockets along the strap. Adjustable ankle weights are a great way to save
money. Just know that the weights tend to rattle around. And, it’s easy to get
lazy; don’t neglect to add or subtract weight when you need to. Use ankle
weights sparingly if you have hip, knee, or ankle problems. Or, try a pair of
weights that strap around your thighs. You may find them awkward to use at
first because, well, they’re strapped to your thighs, but you get used to them
quickly, and they do a good job of distributing extra weight without overload-
ing your knees.
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