If you were to do a Google search for the term “resistance bands”, you’ll get back close to 3 million results with lots of choices and brands. So how do you choose the best resistance bands for you?

Basically, an elastic band is an elastic band. Whether you buy one for a dollar at a local store or buy a top brand for 100 dollars, they are still bands that function in a similar manner. However, even though that’s a common sense approach, it doesn’t mean that a one dollar band will provide you nearly the durability and variety that more expensive bands provide.

To make the most out of your exercise routine, you need a full set of resistance bands, ones that will provide you with a complete workout at home or when traveling.

You need to consider the following when buying your resistance bands:

Material: You want bands made of high quality synthetic rubber. This natural latex material ensures the highest durability and will ensure maximum life.

Multiple Bands: You need to get multiple bands that are strength coded. Rather than just using bands labeled “light, medium, and heavy,” it should provide actual weights like 5 lbs., 10 lbs., 15 lbs., etc. These numbered weights will properly allow you to accurately employ progressive resistance and strength. I recommend having 5 bands rated from 2 lbs. up to 30 lbs. per band.

Quick Change: Those bands you find in department stores, sporting good stores or even online can come attached to a handle. It is much better to look for a set of bands that allow you to quickly interchange and add bands to a single handle or strap. This is what really adds to the term progressive resistance so you can quickly change between sets. Think of it like moving the weight pin up or down when doing a tricep rope extension. You want the flexibility of being able to change by adding or dropping bands from a single set of handles or straps.

Ankle Straps: You should look for a set that comes with ankle straps. Ankle straps are great for doing all sorts of leg exercises and even can be used for a variety of upper body exercises as well.

Door Anchor: Most systems come with a door anchor to attach the bands to something to provide resistance. If you don’t have a door anchor, you can simply find a sturdy object and attach your bands to there. However, a door anchor is much more prefered.

Cost: You should not have to pay more than 60 bucks for everything I just listed above. And absolutely nothing should cost more than a 100 buck or so. One of the best advantages to using resistance bands is that they are one of the most inexpensive and cheap ways to build muscle.