With so many different brands available to buy, choosing the best long resistance bands can be hard. Resistance bands are versatile workout accessories that provide the user with a full-body workout with or without a home gym set-up.
They can be used to perform a wide variety of compound and accessory exercises, added to workouts to make exercises harder or easier, or used alongside machines and free weights. They are inexpensive, easy to carry around, and don’t require any maintenance.
For these reasons, resistance bands make a great addition to any gym bag. With different resistance options, sizes, and band types available, I’ve reviewed my top 5 resistance band picks and presented them below to help you pick the right pair for you.
Top 5 Long Resistance Bands Reviewed
I’ve reviewed my top 5 long resistance bands, looking at resistance, reliability, versatility, and price/ quality. In the table below, I’ve ranked the bands accordingly:
1. LEEKEY Resistance Band Set — Top Pick
LEEKEY is committed to providing excellent quality fitness products so you can enjoy a happier, healthier lifestyle. By manufacturing durable, environmentally friendly equipment and accessories, their products are designed to last.
- Tension:
8-15 lbs
15-35 lbs
25-65 lbs
35-85 lbs
50-125 lbs - Length: 81.9"
- Width: 0.4-1.7"
- Material: Natural Rubber
- Color Palette: Green, Blue, Orange, Red, Purple
Made from Natural rubber, LEEKEY aims to provide environmentally friendly resistance bands designed to last. The natural rubber band material is tear-resistant, durable, and able to repeatedly stretch without losing strength. They get my top pick spot for the best long resistance bands in 2022.
Offering resistance from 8-125 lbs, the LEEKEY resistance bands are great for warming up, stretching, and functional resistance movements. If you want to use them for powerlifting, combine the bands to provide extra resistance.
Measuring 81.9" long, the LEEKEY bands are much longer than the other bands I’ve reviewed, which makes them a good option when performing dynamic movements where the bands need to be attached to equipment.
The bands are available in 4 and 5-band sets and come in either bright colors or a range of greens. Each set includes a convenient carry bag and workout guide.
Overall, the extra long resistance bands from LEEKEY are fantastic for dynamic, functional fitness movements that use a bigger range of motion.
Positives:
Extra long length more suitable for dynamic, functional movements
Convenient carry bag and workout guide included with both sets
Eco-friendly natural rubber band material
Even sold only as a set they have a really affordable price
Could be better:
No single resistance band options available
2. WODFitters Pull-Up Assistance Bands — Runner Up
Founded by a fitness trainer, WODFitters believe in the power of functional fitness. By supplying high-quality gear at excellent prices, WODFitters aims to help athletes achieve a wide range of goals, from general health to serious competition.
They produce a broad range of apparel, shoes, and equipment for cross-training and functional fitness that’s been designed and tested by a wide range of professionals.
- Tension:
10-35 lbs
30-60 lbs
40-80 lbs
50-125 lbs
65-175 lbs - Length: 41"
- Width: 0.5-2.5"
- Material: Natural Rubber
- Color Palette: Orange, Red, Black, Purple, Green, Blue, Grey
For those looking for a high-quality, durable set of rubber resistance bands that won’t snap over time, the 4-band and 5-band sets from WODFitters offer excellent options, coming in a close runner-up spot. Single bands can also be purchased according to your workout preferences.
The WODFitters long exercise bands are perfect for both men and women performing functional fitness exercises including pull-ups, dips, and muscle-ups. They can be easily attached to gym equipment and used to provide an extra challenge when powerlifting.
Made from natural rubber and featuring an anti-snap design, the resistance bands from WODFitters have been extensively tested to ensure the best quality end product.
The bands come in 5 different tensile strengths, ranging from 10 to 175 lbs, offering a great range of resistance levels. They can also be easily combined to provide heavier resistance if needed. They measure 41" long, range from 0.74-1.75" wide, and come in a wide range of bright colors.
Overall, the WODFitters bands are an excellent option for fitness athletes and gym enthusiasts looking for durable sets of rubber resistance bands that can be purchased individually or as part of a set.
Positives:
The bands can be purchased individually or as part of a set
- The anti-snap design stops the bands breaking from repeated heavy use
- Lightweight band design at 0.24 lbs
Could be better:
Higher price point compared to other brands
3. Eleiko Resistance Band — Premium Pick
Founded in 1957, Eleiko provides premium gym equipment and accessories for beginners to advanced lifters.
With the company owner frustrated by the lack of durable gym equipment, he founded Eleiko. Eleiko aims to continuously improve lifting performance and provide innovative products that can be used safely.
- Tension:
18-55 lbs
26-92 lbs
40-132 lbs
48-154 lbs
66-194 lbs
88-207 lbs
99-218 lbs - Length: 41"
- Material: Durable Rubber
- Color Palette: Green, Yellow, Blue, Red, Grey, Silver, Black
When purchasing from Eleiko, you're getting a premium product from a well-known brand whose equipment and accessories have been proven at the highest level of competition.
Their long workout bands are no different, available in 7 different resistance levels or as a set of 4 bands that range from 18-218 lbs, making them the best powerlifting option out of my top 5 choices.
Made from durable rubber, each band has been carefully designed to stand up to repeated use, from general strength and conditioning to banded powerlifting movements. Each band measures 41" in length and is available in 7 different colors, with the Eleiko brand in white in the middle.
Overall, the Eleiko resistance bands are a solid premium band option. Whilst they cost a little more, you're paying for bands manufactured by a well-known company whose products are heavily featured at the highest level of competition.
Positives:
Great powerlifting option ranging from 18-218 lbs
Thinner band width more suitable for certain exercises
The Eleiko brand has been well-tested at the highest level
Could be better:
A wider range of set options would be good
Draper’s Strength was founded with a simple aim — to provide functional fitness equipment to customers at a decent price point.
By designing resistance bands that can be easily stored away, Draper’s Strength wants to provide cost-effective workout accessories that will get you in the best shape of your life.
- Tension:
2-15 lbs
5-35 lbs
10-50 lbs
25-80 lbs
50-120 lbs
60-150 lbs
70-175 lbs - Length: 41"
- Width: 0.25-3.25"
- Material: Natural Rubber
- Color Palette: Yellow, Red, Black, Purple, Green, Blue, Orange
In my number 4 spot are the resistance bands from Draper’s Strength. Constructed from high-quality rubber, the bands have been continuously dipped in latex to ensure they are durable and maintain their elasticity after repeated heavy use. They are available as individual bands or 3,4, and 5-band sets with a convenient carry bag and handle attachments.
Offering 2-175 lbs of resistance, the Draper’s Strength set provides a big range of band resistance that makes them ideal for strength training, powerlifting, functional movements, and rehabilitation exercises.
They measure 41" long and go from 0.25-3.25" wide depending on the resistance. Available in 7 bright colors, each band comes with handy rubber straps that keep the bands together, making them easy to store away or put in your gym bag.
Overall, Draper’s Strength resistance bands are a great option, providing 7 different durable resistance bands that come with handy storage straps.
Positives:
Band handles and door anchors are included when buying as a set
Larger single band resistance range compared to other comparable brands
Handy rubber straps that keep the bands together when not in use
Could be better:
They may have a strong rubber smell when newly opened
WeLuvFit manufactures and sells a wide range of fitness equipment, including resistance bands, pilates bars, and home accessories.
The brand aims to provide gym equipment that can strengthen your body and mind, leading to a better life. WeLuvFit wants you to be able to choose workout gear with ease without the uncertainty of what to use.
- Tension:
5-20 lbs
15-35 lbs
25-50 lbs
35-65 lbs - Length: 42"
- Width: 0.59-1.77"
- Material: Polyester
- Color Palette: Various Grays, Black
The fabric polyester resistance bands from WeLuvFit offer gym users a great alternative band option if they prefer a different band material or have certain skin allergies.
At first glance, the bands look and feel great. Made of skin-friendly material with an anti-slip rubber layer, they feature reinforced stitching to prevent rolling up and snapping issues.
The band options go from X-Light - Heavy, ranging from 5-65 lbs of resistance. Whilst this is less than most rubber band options, it still provides a decent range of resistance levels. They are also suitable to be used together, providing up to 170 lbs of heavy-duty resistance.
Measuring 42" long and from 0.59-1.77" wide depending on the resistance level, the bands come in a mixture of light grays and a black color for the top resistance.
Overall, the WeLuvFit resistance bands are well designed and provide an alternative option to the common rubber material used in most resistance bands.
Positives:
Soft, skin-friendly fabric material
Long warranty included with each purchase
Reinforced stitching prevents rolling-up and snapping issues
Could be better:
A wider range of resistance options could be available
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What Are the Benefits of Using Long Resistance Bands?
Using long resistance bands provides a host of benefits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts of all levels. Here are the main benefits:
Versatility
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of using resistance bands is their versatility. They can be used for a variety of compound and accessory gym movements that include pushing, pulling, and pressing. They are great for warming up, stretching, dynamic movements, and powerlifting exercises depending on the resistance used.
They can be placed against the body or attached to gym equipment to provide a full-body workout at different resistance levels. They can also be used to make an exercise easier or harder depending on how you position them.
Portability
Another key benefit of resistance bands is their portability. Due to their material, they can be wrapped up and stored in a small bag or suitcase without taking up much space at all.
As they are made of latex and other lightweight materials, resistance bands weigh little compared to most gym equipment. This makes them a great option for working out on the go or when traveling a lot.
Price
One of the biggest factors stopping people from buying their favorite gym equipment is the price. Whilst there are lots of affordable equipment options available, resistance bands come at a fraction of the cost and provide multiple usage options.
Safety
Resistance bands do have their dangers when using them, but compared with heavy weights and gym machines, they are much safer to use.
With the increased safety, resistance bands are well suited for people recovering from injury or looking to do some rehabilitation exercises whilst injured.
When Do You Need Long Resistance Bands?
What to Look for in Long Resistance Bands
Tension
Length
The length refers to how long the band is which in turn affects how far the band can stretch. When choosing a band, think about the movements you’ll be performing and factor in your height and movement pattern to decide the best band length for you.
Width
Width is the measurement between both sides of the band and usually varies depending on the brand, band tension, and resistance.
With band width, consider different gym movements and whether or not a thicker band will get in the way when using the correct form. For most bands, width isn’t a main factor to consider due to the materials used.
Material
When considering which resistance band to purchase, the material can be an important factor. With the majority of resistance bands made from latex, you’ll likely need a different band material if you have an allergy.
Latex-free bands are widely available and provide a great option for those who have an allergy or prefer a different material.
Color Palette
Most people don’t like to admit it, but everyone loves to wear certain gym clothes and gear due to the visual appeal and color coordination between the products.
With resistance bands, most brands manufacture them in a wide range of bright colors, giving you lots of choices when looking to match your gym outfit.
Alongside this, you may just have a favorite color that you like and want to use.
How to Use Long Resistance Bands?
Correct Set-up
Before using the bands, make sure they are securely positioned against the relevant body part or correctly fastened to the gym apparatus. Ensure the bands are evenly distributed between both sides of the body and you have a stable foot position.
Band Movement
When using the bands, avoid any quick jerking movements. Make sure to maintain a constant, fluid tempo to reduce the chances of the bands slipping or breaking.
The resistance bands also shouldn’t be stretched to more than 2.5 x their original length.
Inspect Before Using
Before using the bands, check both the band and the handles for cuts, scratches, cracks, and punctures. If you notice any differences, immediately stop using the band and don’t try to repair it.
Don’t Release Under Tension
Releasing a band when under tension can cause it to snap back suddenly, increasing the risk of injury. Only release the band once all the slack has been taken out.
FAQs
Are long resistance bands better?
If you're wanting to perform dynamic, functional movements using a bigger range of motion, long resistance bands are a better option.
However, this doesn’t make them better than shorter bands. It just means they are better suited for different uses.
What Is the Difference Between Loop Bands and Resistance Bands?
Loop bands provide a more even resistance throughout the whole movement whilst resistance bands give a more concentrated resistance at the top of the movement.
Conclusion
Long resistance bands provide a convenient, low-cost exercise option. They can be easily adapted to work a wide range of full-body and accessory movements and used for warming up and rehabilitation exercises.
The LEEKEY Resistance Band Set get my top pick, scoring the highest for resistance, reliability, versatility, and price. Consider the main factors I've discussed above before choosing a suitable band option and make sure to follow the step-by-step guide to use them safely.
Do you like long resistance bands? What do you use them for? Post any questions down below and I’ll answer them!
References:
- How To Use Resistance Bands To Increase Strength, Power, And 1-RMs // BarBend:
https://barbend.com/resistance-bands-increase-power/ - 9 Reasons to Use ResistanceBands for Working Out // Prosourcefit: https://www.prosourcefit.com/blogs/news/9-reasons-to-use-resistance-bands-for-working-out
- 7 Resistance Band Stretches for a Full-Body Routine // Verywell Fit: https://www.verywellfit.com/total-body-stretch-with-resistance-bands-1231152
- Full-Body Resistance Band Warm-Up Routine // Men's Fitness:
https://mensfitness.co.uk/workouts/try-this-full-body-resistance-band-warm-up/ - All About Resistance Bands // Let's Bands:
https://letsbands.com/en/blog/all-about-resistance-bands/
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships – 105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.