You don’t need the gym – boost total-body strength with this beginner-friendly resistance band workout
It's also low-impact and can improve your mobility too


Trying to stay fit while dealing with the busyness of everyday life can be challenging, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be. The underrated resistance band is an incredibly versatile piece of kit that allows you to get a full-body workout anytime, anywhere. This seven-move resistance band workout packs a muscle-building punch, targeting all your major muscle groups, from your legs to your glutes, back, and chest. Just grab a long, pull-up resistance band and get ready to grow.
Before we jump into the workout, though, you may be wondering how beneficial resistance bands actually are. They are very beneficial, in fact. Research has shown that resistance bands (when used in the right way) can develop similar muscle strength to using dumbbells and weight machines. They also offer additional benefits. These include strengthening the body's stabilising muscles (which is important for remaining pain – and injury-free), improving mobility, and being easier on the joints.
For this workout you'll want what's known as a 'pull-up' resistance band, which are much larger than the small 'booty bands'. Perform 10 reps of each exercise below (do this on each side where it's a single-arm exercise). Rest for 30-60 seconds between each exercise, and 1-3 minutes after you've completed all seven movements. Aim to complete four rounds of the workout in total. Here's the exercises:
- Seated rows
- Upright row
- Single-arm curls
- Rotational single arm overhead press
- Overhead hold single leg marches
- Push-ups
- Squat and reverse lunge
If you need more resistance band workouts, we have plenty! For more full-body routines, check out this six-move superset routine, which is guaranteed to leave you with an impressive pump afterward. If you'd rather train your lower and upper body separately, though, here's a 15-minute routine for the arms, back, and shoulders and a 20-minute routine to target the legs and glutes.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Bryony’s T3’s official ‘gym-bunny’ and Active Staff Writer, covering all things fitness. She recently completed her Level 3 PT qualification with the PFCA to bring a deeper understanding of training techniques, fitness trends, and wellness advice to her writing. In her spare time, you will find her in her natural habitat - the gym - where her style of training is a hybrid of bodybuilding and powerlifting. Bryony loves writing about accessible workouts, nutrition and testing innovative fitness products that help you reach your fitness goals and take your training to the next level.
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
-
Tired of crunches? A fitness trainer recommends these five standing exercises for better core strength and stability
They're also great for improving posture too
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
One kettlebell, 10 minutes and these five exercises to build a strong core and improve posture
A strong core is the gateway to better movement, fewer injuries and bigger lifts
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Build functional strength in 30 minutes with two dumbbells and these four exercises
Bend, lift and carry items easier (and look good while doing it)
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
You don’t need to run – this full-body dumbbell workout burns fat, builds muscle and boosts your cardio health
The many benefits of lifting weights
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Sculpt your abs and strengthen your core with this six-minute Pilates workout
It’s a bodyweight burner that will leave your midsection on fire
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
No sit-ups — just this four-move standing ab workout to build a stronger core
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
A stretchologist shares five dynamic stretches to boost mobility and relieve tension in the lower back
Ideal if you’ve had a long day sitting at a desk or are warming up for a workout
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Three bodyweight exercises to strengthen your core and lower back, according to an expert
A stronger core can relieve pain, reduce injuries and help you move better
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published