Resistance

Dumbbells

There are a number of choices out there when it comes to dumbbells. Some people like the adjustable dumbbell rack (which I think is nothing but an accident waiting to happen) for the space saving quality, but I like the old school one-piece solid weight route.

So, after much research and calling around, I found that Walmart actually had the best deal on CAP Dumbbells. You can actually order them online and, at no extra cost, have them shipped to a local store for pickup. I personally bought 5’s,10’s,15’s,20’s,25’s, and 35’s, but below is a list of weights I believe everyone should have in their arsenal depending on their experience:

Beginners:

2 Fives

2 Tens

2 Fifteens

2 Twenties

2 Twenty-Fives

Advanced:

2 Thirties

2 Thirty-Fives

Heavier Lifters:

2 Forties

2 Forty-Fives

2 Fifties

Resistance Bands

To be honest with you, I never used the bands in place of weights during P90X or P90X2, but I know they can work wonders because I have used them in the past on many occasions.  Depending on your level of fitness and strength (and/or budget), the bands are a fantastic addition to any equipment room.  A major reason to buy a set of resistance bands is because they fit inside any travel bag – so, if your on the move or going out of town…NO EXCUSES to not get a good resistance workout in.
 
Another main reason you might want to get a set of bands is because you might not be able to do a pull-up when starting the program.  My older brother couldn’t so he used the bands for about 5 weeks and when week 6 came around – BOMB!  3 pull-ups.  Just remember, when using the bands to reach the goal of doing an actual pull-up, you have to use good form and make sure the bands are providing enough resistance to actually help you build the strength you need to eventually do those first few “real” pull-ups.
 
With this piece of equipment I first bought a blue band from Sports Authority costing about $15 which broke the on the 3rd week of continuous use.  I then purchased a set of Gold’s Gym’s Bands for the same price that have lasted over 6 months and are still going strong.
 
PRODUCT NOTES:

  • Make sure you get a set of bands that have the right range of resistance you’ll need.  Some exercise require more weight than others and some less weight so you want to make sure you have the right band for the right exercise.
  • The nature of bands allow you to get less or more resistance with the same band depending on the amount of slack you allow in the band.  So, if you find the band is too light or too heavy, don’t switch bands right away!  Play with the amount of slack your giving the band (making it tighter/heavier or loser/lighter) before you decide whether or not it’s time for a different band.


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