Correct Use of Therabands for Squats and Side Steps

Are you exercising in the most effective way? Many gyms and clinics use resistance bands but do not have any guidance on their usage. Stop and think what you're doing and what it's actually working. What are the biomechanics involved?
When doing squats and side steps, the moving leg is the one doing less work and the one that is still is stabilizing the trunk. However, the question is, should the resistance band be put around the knees, ankles or toes? The hip muscles (gluteals) work harder as the band lowers down the leg (increased lever arm), but does it make a significant difference moving the band from the ankle to the toes?
In a study using electromyography conducted by Cara L. Lewis and a physical therapist, they found that for most conditions it is better to step while squatting rather than standing and that the toe is the best place to put the band. For more information on the study, click on the link below.


Diagram showing the most effective way to use a TheraBand for hip abductor rehabilitiation and strengthening
https://www.bu.edu/research/articles/theraband-hip-abductor-rehabilitation/

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