Free weights VS resistance bands ?

[Itagaki]

Originally Posted by FastFreddy

I feel trx is a waste of time and money but some people need to try the lastest training system. Bands are great for PT rehab and girls in a spin class. Iam waiting for memebers to bring in those heavy chains and put them on their bars while bench pressing. After that will be the huge tire flipping, hitting the tire with a sledgehammer and the huge rope workouts aka mma. for me all I need is a barbell and some plates, some dumbells a pair of running shoes.

Bro, you gotta get that variable resistance!

After all, ALL the guys at WESTSIDE-****ING-BARBELL do it!!! And Louie Simmons is the most logical, intelligent, sane individual in the world of strength

/sarcasm

TRX is a waste of time though

[r2473]

Originally Posted by FastFreddy

I checked these out back in 2005 when they first came out. Back in 2008 I took a workshop now TRX offers 6 different workshops. It uses your body’s angle against gravity. Problem is not all the movements directly oppose gravity. It's just like anything else in the fitness trainer's toolbox. Another new thing to make out of shape and in shape people feel silly. It's more like learning a new skill.TRX Suspension Trainer Cons


Price
The biggest downside of this product may be the price. If spending $189.95 on a set of sturdy straps and anchors (along with the extras) doesn't make you bat an eye, then go for it. If nothing else, your workouts will be new, and you will engage muscles in a new way.
Anchor Points
Anchoring the system isn't a simple thing for those working out a home. Yes, you can use a door, but it seems to limit some of the exercises. Anchoring the system overhead allows more freedom of movement, but not everyone has (or wants) a great overhead anchor bolt in their living room.
Will the Novelty Wear off?


I wonder about the sustainability of the routines. It would be nice to hear how people feel about the TRX System after they've been using it for several months to see if it's just another fun, new fad that grows old over time. I've only done a short demo routine on the TRX, and I don't own one. It's hard for me to say if it would become stale or would become a core part of my training routine over time.Proponents of suspension training argue that it develops core body strength, as well as joint and muscular stability,[7] reducing the chance of injury.

Some sports scientists have expressed concern that weaker individuals may not have the core stability or joint integrity to use the system safely and effectively. I see in the gym alot of chicks using this and bands in classes. For me nothing beats freeweights. Alot of these new toys and training just keeps the the trainer and clients from getting bored. The trainer takes a workshop learns a new training shill and teaches it to the client who now shows off his or her new skill set.

I like using gymnastic rings, which are similar in function to what TRX is trying to do. I love them.

But your point about finding a place to anchor them is quite valid, especially for the home user. I have a great place. Some guy built a power station out of solid iron (I think the thing probably weighs 300 lbs. or more; I can hang off the back doing front or back levers and it stays perfectly stable; a beast of a stand) and his family sold it to me for $50 through the classified when he died. But otherwise, I have no idea where I would secure those things.

The rings I got are $60. Well worth it IMO.

https://www.gymnasticbodies.com/foru...e-rings-black/

Another great piece of equipment are parallettes:

http://www.vitavibe.com/Vita_Vibe_Parallettes.html

Wish I could find stall bars for cheap. Anyone know where I could find some?

[tlm]

Originally Posted by FastFreddy

I checked these out back in 2005 when they first came out. Back in 2008 I took a workshop now TRX offers 6 different workshops. It uses your body’s angle against gravity. Problem is not all the movements directly oppose gravity. It's just like anything else in the fitness trainer's toolbox. Another new thing to make out of shape and in shape people feel silly. It's more like learning a new skill.TRX Suspension Trainer Cons


Price
The biggest downside of this product may be the price. If spending $189.95 on a set of sturdy straps and anchors (along with the extras) doesn't make you bat an eye, then go for it. If nothing else, your workouts will be new, and you will engage muscles in a new way.
Anchor Points
Anchoring the system isn't a simple thing for those working out a home. Yes, you can use a door, but it seems to limit some of the exercises. Anchoring the system overhead allows more freedom of movement, but not everyone has (or wants) a great overhead anchor bolt in their living room.
Will the Novelty Wear off?


I wonder about the sustainability of the routines. It would be nice to hear how people feel about the TRX System after they've been using it for several months to see if it's just another fun, new fad that grows old over time. I've only done a short demo routine on the TRX, and I don't own one. It's hard for me to say if it would become stale or would become a core part of my training routine over time.Proponents of suspension training argue that it develops core body strength, as well as joint and muscular stability,[7] reducing the chance of injury.

Some sports scientists have expressed concern that weaker individuals may not have the core stability or joint integrity to use the system safely and effectively. I see in the gym alot of chicks using this and bands in classes. For me nothing beats freeweights. Alot of these new toys and training just keeps the the trainer and clients from getting bored. The trainer takes a workshop learns a new training shill and teaches it to the client who now shows off his or her new skill set.

I agree TRX is over priced that is why I made my own for about $30. But I do like some of the movements, like I said I combine TRX with free weights. I will do a set of dead lifts and then use the straps to do what I call reverse pushups. This is were you put your legs on a bench and pull yourself up towards the ceiling, a very good back movement.

There are many TRX exercises that are very good and can be combined with free weight movements, like after a set of bench presses do the strap pushups, same with after a set of barbell curls go right to TRX curls. So in other words I don't do just TRX training I combine it in my free weight workout. Which I feel is very good for a change up and there is more core and balance used with TRX.

I do agree with you about the bands they are really for PT more than anything. That is why I found it humorous for someone to ask about free weight VS bands, because there is no comparison. I really think that the best form of training is free weights, but even better is weighted body movements. Like weighted pull ups, push ups, and dips.

[FastFreddy]

Originally Posted by r2473

I like using gymnastic rings, which are similar in function to what TRX is trying to do. I love them.

But your point about finding a place to anchor them is quite valid, especially for the home user. I have a great place. Some guy built a power station out of solid iron (I think the thing probably weighs 300 lbs. or more; I can hang off the back doing front or back levers and it stays perfectly stable; a beast of a stand) and his family sold it to me for $50 through the classified when he died. But otherwise, I have no idea where I would secure those things.

The rings I got are $60. Well worth it IMO.

https://www.gymnasticbodies.com/foru...e-rings-black/



Another great piece of equipment are parallettes:

http://www.vitavibe.com/Vita_Vibe_Parallettes.html

Wish I could find stall bars for cheap. Anyone know where I could find some?

I cracked up laughing when one dude bought and was using gymnast rings and was showing off. I was the club manager so I told him u can't use those here he was sad. I also laugh with those neck gear that holds plates and the tools who need to do weighted dips and try pullups with a 100 lb dumbell give me a break.

[FastFreddy]

Originally Posted by Itagaki

Bro, you gotta get that variable resistance!

After all, ALL the guys at WESTSIDE-****ING-BARBELL do it!!! And Louie Simmons is the most logical, intelligent, sane individual in the world of strength

/sarcasm

TRX is a waste of time though

I hear ya, I keep it real simple deadlifts, bentover rows, clean and press, stepups and bench.

[FastFreddy]

Originally Posted by tlm

I agree TRX is over priced that is why I made my own for about $30. But I do like some of the movements, like I said I combine TRX with free weights. I will do a set of dead lifts and then use the straps to do what I call reverse pushups. This is were you put your legs on a bench and pull yourself up towards the ceiling, a very good back movement.

There are many TRX exercises that are very good and can be combined with free weight movements, like after a set of bench presses do the strap pushups, same with after a set of barbell curls go right to TRX curls. So in other words I don't do just TRX training I combine it in my free weight workout. Which I feel is very good for a change up and there is more core and balance used with TRX.

I do agree with you about the bands they are really for PT more than anything. That is why I found it humorous for someone to ask about free weight VS bands, because there is no comparison. I really think that the best form of training is free weights, but even better is weighted body movements. Like weighted pull ups, push ups, and dips.

I just have a small amount of time to lift then run so I deadlift, bent over rows, clean and press, stepups and bench then go for a 8 mile run. If u have 2-3 hrs then do core, speed, quickness,agility balance, poly, and cuff pt work and lots of crazy abs. Maybe just do sport specfic traing for your sport. I talk to these people doing all these crazy moves. Guess what all of them are not training for anything. Some trainer or book showed them these moves and now they like to show other members they got skills. It's a good way to meet people at the gym. Most people are bored working out so this keeps them entertained and makes me smile too!!

[3fees]

Both have there place, I use free weights ,from 1lb up.

[tlm]

Originally Posted by Say Chi Sin Lo

I listen to logic and yours made sense, so therefore I have removed my post. But I will address tlm's statements:

1) Out of nowhere, he addressed me specifically in my attempt to be humble and hopefully helpful to OP's question. I don't have the scientific knowledge specifically on "muscle development", true. Do I know how to train? Yes, and I elaborated on from personal experience and results on the whole "free weights vs resistance bands" topic. Hence the disclaimer of "I'm not expert in blah blah", but here's what I observed.

2) By addressing me specifically without contribution to the thread, I'd like to hear the other reasons behind his initial post. My opinion on his initial post remains confrontational and ultimately unhelpful to OP's question (not dragging you into this mess).

3) Lastly, "doesn't know a thing about strength training", well ok. If you're going to say something like that specifically to another person, then let's hear your qualifications on the matter.

Here is a video of me hitting, this was today at the age of 57. I think this would show I know something about training.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ55yV8kTzs

[Say Chi Sin Lo]

Originally Posted by tlm

Here is a video of me hitting, this was today at the age of 57. I think this would show I know something about training.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ55yV8kTzs

What am I supposed to be impressed with? Bad form? Anemic lateral movements? Hitting balls beyond the age of 50 that half of the people on these forums can already do?

Not bad for your age, but not impressive enough to be differentiated from those who just kept playing regardless of their age.

Still don't know what your deal is with me. But hey, whatever helps you sleep at night, go for it stranger.

[tlm]

Originally Posted by Say Chi Sin Lo

What am I supposed to be impressed with? Bad form? Anemic lateral movements? Hitting balls beyond the age of 50 that half of the people on these forums can already do?

Not bad for your age, but not impressive enough to be differentiated from those who just kept playing regardless of their age.

Still don't know what your deal is with me. But hey, whatever helps you sleep at night, go for it stranger.

Look dude I came on to strong with you about your first comment comparing free weights to bands. I took it like you were saying that the bands could do what free weights can, which to me they are not in the same league. So for that I must apologize, I mistook your comment.

My tennis skills are not that good, but I did not learn to play until I was 44 years old. But my example was to show my conditioning and training experience not ball striking skills.

But I guess you know a lot of guys my age that are in much better shape and have a lot better movement than me. Thats funny because in the 2 clubs I play at that is nowhere near the case.

[couch]

This is exactly what I have struggled with the last year or so. I think a combination of both is best. I think it also depends on what you are training for, your age and ability to recover.

I have done Crossfit the last three years and really enjoy those types of workouts and the competition involved. I would consider myself in good shape, especially for my age, I'm 42. I have maxed out at 365 on back squats and 405 on dead lift. I weigh 180.

The problem with Crossfit is the a ability to recover and play tennis at your peak ability. At least for me. I did band workouts for 2-3 months and had tremendous success with them and was able to recover quicker and faster. We would do HIIT training with the bands similar to Crossfit. We would also mix in sprints with the different exercises.

If you are just trying to build strength then I don't think there is a question on what's better for that- free-weights.

If you are trying to train for tennis and the physical/cardio demands involved I think a combination of free-weights, bands, and HIIT training might be best. Maybe free weights for just strength training and bands combined with HIIT training to help with tennis conditioning and recovery.

Any thoughts?

[tlm]

Originally Posted by couch

This is exactly what I have struggled with the last year or so. I think a combination of both is best. I think it also depends on what you are training for, your age and ability to recover.

I have done Crossfit the last three years and really enjoy those types of workouts and the competition involved. I would consider myself in good shape, especially for my age, I'm 42. I have maxed out at 365 on back squats and 405 on dead lift. I weigh 180.

The problem with Crossfit is the a ability to recover and play tennis at your peak ability. At least for me. I did band workouts for 2-3 months and had tremendous success with them and was able to recover quicker and faster. We would do HIIT training with the bands similar to Crossfit. We would also mix in sprints with the different exercises.

If you are just trying to build strength then I don't think there is a question on what's better for that- free-weights.

If you are trying to train for tennis and the physical/cardio demands involved I think a combination of free-weights, bands, and HIIT training might be best. Maybe free weights for just strength training and bands combined with HIIT training to help with tennis conditioning and recovery.

Any thoughts?

I agree very good advise for tennis training and conditioning.

[maverick66]

Originally Posted by Itagaki

TRX is a waste of time though

I have one and all I can say is no its not.

[tlm]

Originally Posted by maverick66

I have one and all I can say is no its not.

I agree TRX is a very good way to train, especially when combined with free weights.

[GuyClinch]

TRX is a ton better then nothing. As is say one of those very adjustable cable weight machines and a bench. (You know the kind they often use for rehab)..

I happen to think free weights are the overall best but most gyms are going to have access to all three - especially if they have a dumbell set up..

But these arguments in general are a waste - its like arguing what kind of amplifier is the best. Plenty of amplifiers can do the job extremely well - its going to depending on the speakers source etc.

Guys can get in fabulous shape using all kind of methods..resistance training in general works. Even straight up hammer strength machines can give people real world results..

[maverick66]

Originally Posted by GuyClinch

Guys can get in fabulous shape using all kind of methods..resistance training in general works. Even straight up hammer strength machines can give people real world results..

All these things are a tool. Thats it. They are not systems or greater than others. People get to wound up in im just gonna use this or that because its the best and really limit their growth for fitness.

There is many tools out there that can assist and some I use just because its fun to me to try new things in the gym. I am not one of those guys that can do the same exercise over and over with only the weight and rep scheme different. I need a challenge and its gotten me into a bunch of great stuff.

TRX, kettlebells, bands, free weights, hell even yoga and group classes use them all. Nobody here needs to specify unless your on a rehab program.

[tlm]

Originally Posted by maverick66

All these things are a tool. Thats it. They are not systems or greater than others. People get to wound up in im just gonna use this or that because its the best and really limit their growth for fitness.

There is many tools out there that can assist and some I use just because its fun to me to try new things in the gym. I am not one of those guys that can do the same exercise over and over with only the weight and rep scheme different. I need a challenge and its gotten me into a bunch of great stuff.

TRX, kettlebells, bands, free weights, hell even yoga and group classes use them all. Nobody here needs to specify unless your on a rehab program.

Anyone that wants to get into working out should take note of this post. To the people who have worked out for years already know this, there are many different methods to train with and I agree that they are tools.

No perfect way or one way and of course it does depend on what you are after. But it is good to experiment and mix it up to keep it interesting, especially the longer you work out for the more you need the variety.

[superdave3]

Originally Posted by charliefedererer

Does it have to be one or the other?

Many think the Thrower's Ten exercises are the best exercises to hep prevent shoulder, arm, elbow and wrist injuries.

Is it mere coincidence that the Thrower's Ten combines the best of free weights and resistance bands?

Thrower's Ten Exercises http://www.muhlenberg.edu/pdf/main/a...throwers10.pdf

Great post!!! Thanks!

[NineMileSkid]

Originally Posted by chrischris

Are rubber bands not more better as they are more functional

.. Mass and 'real' strength is not always good.

Real strenght is always good.

[dominikk1985]

for some purposes the bands are very good (rotator cuff for example) but for the big muscles I prefer weights.