The Best Cheap Resistance Bands
Above-average ratings, below-average prices, no fake reviews.
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Resistance bands, sometimes called exercise bands or exercise loops, are like large rubber bands: The thicker the band, the more tension is required to move it. This fitness concept is known as resistance training.
A study published in Current Sports Medicine Reports concludes that resistance training is an effective tool for building muscle and losing weight. Additionally, the combination of (free) weight- and resistance-training may be more effective than either technique alone, according to a study published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.
Exercise bands are inexpensive, travel-friendly and versatile. They are used in stretching routines, yoga exercises and Pilates workouts as well as strength training. Remember: No piece of exercise equipment is 100% safe and the improper storage or usage of exercise bands can result in a snap.
How Much Do Resistance Bands Cost?
A good set of resistance bands (with verified, above-average reviews) costs approximately $14, according to a 12-month analysis of price trends. Those same exercise bands cost around $9 while on sale: an average discount of 36%. Here are the best cheap resistance band sets for the money:
Methodology for Selecting Products
I use data science to discover above-average products that are selling for below-average prices. To find resistance bands with below-average prices, I first assemble a list of candidates, then organize those products by their 12-month average sale price, determine the median value and then exclude any fitness equipment with a price above the mid-point.
To find exercise bands with above-average reviews, I measure the relationship between 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 star ratings and flag outliers that fall outside of a normal statistical distribution. I also discount paid, sponsored and unverified reviews as well as unhelpful review behaviors from verified customers. Bands with an average adjusted rating of less than 3.9 out of 5 are excluded; in the end, fewer than 10% of the analyzed products remain.
SmarterLife Latex-Free Exercise Bands
Good Value: $13 | Great Deal: $6
These latex-free resistance bands minimize rolling (i.e. stay in place relatively well) and are comfortable for those with sensitive skin, according to several customers. Some reviewers warn that the bands are tacky when wet; others say that these bands have a short lifespan and may need to be replaced under warranty.
Omorc Resistance Bands for Yoga and Pilates
Good Value: $9 | Great Deal: $6
Omorc’s exercise bands are thin-yet-durable and come with a convenient storage pouch, according to several online customers. Reviewers caution that these bands bunch up during repetitive leg exercises.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
Sports Research Sweet Sweat Mini Loop Resistance Bands
Good Value: $15 | Great Deal: $11
These resistance bands are durable, portable and a good option for stretching, according to several online customers who say these loops have light resistance. Reviewers with large legs warn that the bands roll.
Booty Bands by Perfect Peach Athletics
Good Value: $16 | Great Deal: $6
Booty Bands are thick, strong and versatile, according to several online customers. Many reviewers complain that these exercise bands twist, then roll up the leg; others say that the bands attract dust and hairs.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
TheraBand Resistance Band Set
Good Value: $11 | Great Deal: $4
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Therabands are not looped like other resistance bands: They are rubberized ribbons that are wrapped around the hands. Some online customers didn’t realize this and were upset with the product they received.
GymBandit Ultra-Heavy Mini Loop Resistance Bands
Good Value: $20 | Great Deal: $15
This strength band set is beautiful and challenging, according to several online customers. Some reviewers complain that these bands smell rubbery and roll up the leg; others say that they eventually tear.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
Sportbit Resistance Bands Set with Bag
Good Value: $8 | Great Deal: $3
Sportbit’s resistance bands are 10 inches, which is shorter than other sets. Some online customers with thick legs complained that the bands rolled, but petite customers found these bands to be perfectly sized. Many customers praised the build-quality and materials.
Peach Bands Resistance Bands Set
Good Value: $19 | Great Deal: $10
Peach Bands are attractive, durable and comfortable, according to several online customers. Some reviewers caution that these bands have too little resistance for leg exercises; others say that the bands ride up.
Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands with Bag
Good Value: $9 | Great Deal: $4
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Fit Simplify’s exercise bands are high-quality and durable, even after repeated use, according to several online reviewers. These 12-inch bands might be too large for someone with skinny legs; for someone with large legs, the bands may roll slightly.
Insonder Resistance Bands
Good Value: $13 | Great Deal: $7
This set of bands is ideal for arm workouts and light rehabilitation, according to several online customers. Reviewers agree that these exercise bands are low resistance and best suited for beginners.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
Limm Resistance Bands Exercise Loops — Set of 5
Good Value: $10 | Great Deal: $5
Several online customers praised Limm’s resistance bands for being strong and durable, but some online reviewers found quality issues with the black (highest-tension) band in the set.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
Letsfit Pilates Flexband Set, 12” x 2”
Good Value: $13 | Great Deal: $7
Letsfit’s resistance bands are cheap, effective and convenient, according to several online customers. Some reviewers caution that these bands roll up the leg; others say the bands have a strong, rubbery smell.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday.
MVN Resistance Bands Set
Good Value: $12 | Great Deal: $10
MVN’s affordable resistance bands are durable, gentle on body hair and have exercises printed directly on them, according to several online customers. Many reviewers (even happy ones) say these bands slip and bunch-up during use. A few unhappy customers wish these bands had more tension.
Fitfort Resistance Bands for Legs and Butt
Good Value: $24 | Great Deal: $11
These fabric resistance bands are slip-free and comfortable enough to use on bare skin, according to several online customers. On the other hand, some reviewers warn that these bands are rigid and inelastic.
Note: This item was heavily discounted on Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
NeeBooFit Resistance Loop Band Set
Good Value: $16 | Great Deal: $10
These budget resistance bands are large, thick and durable, according to several online customers. Some reviewers say the bands smell like cheap rubber; others complain that the bands roll (and can tear).
Potok Resistance Band Set (Light, Medium, Heavy)
Good Value: $13 | Great Deal: $9
These odor-free exercise bands are well-made, according to several online customers. Many reviewers caution that these bands are short (especially for doing leg exercises).
About the Author: John DeFeo is a fitness enthusiast who likes to eat healthy. He specializes in the analysis of online customer reviews and is the moderator of a charitable sub-Reddit that lists daily Amazon deals.
