One of my new absolute favorite workouts has been anything with resistance bands. They are so great for toning and do a serious number on those hard to work muscles. They also do not create bulky muscles, but instead, help to elongate the muscle we are building. Seriously, they are the best thing ever.
The Pilates reformer works in a similar way (except about a billion times better), but not all of us have Pilates reformers available on a moment's whim. I am still trying to find a good studio near me with quality reformers and great teachers. So far, the YMCA seems like one of the best options. Why must the Y be so great and also soooo expensive? One day, one day.
For now though, here are some great resistance band exercises via YouTube! I would recommend a resistance band that has no handles and is simply a long piece of rubber but not a tube. The tube resistance bands with handles are great for certain activities, but not all. This one is a great option.
Beginner Pilates Workout
This one is great for beginners in the Pilates world. It goes over how to hold resistance bands and starts pretty slow for any not-too-sure about what is going on. Don;t get me wrong though, it is still a super great workout for anyone who wants a resistance band workout. For the more advanced, this could be a great option after a cardio session!
Upside Down Pilates has lots of other great Pilates workouts for anyone interested :)
Resistance Band Cardio Workout
Who does not love Pop Sugar, right?! This one is quite short being about 10-minutes long. The workout, however, is a great combination of cardio, Pilates, and ballet. This is just a super fun, effective, and quick workout with resistance bands.
Denise Austen Lower Body Workout
This Denise Austen Lower body workout is simple wonderful. I have been a fan of Denise for a long time, and this workout is no exception. Like the Pop Sugar workout, this one is only 10-minutes long. Both the Pop Sugar and the Denise Austen workout could be done together to make a slightly longer and way more intense resistance band sequence. Just get ready, your everywhere will be feeling it tomorrow!