We can thank a pandemic and multiple lockdowns for the at-home workout boom. Those with the space and the cash plumped for a Peloton bike (the company's value reportedly quadrupled during Covid), while everyone else tuned in to work out with Joe Wicks.
And as it turns out, Joe Wicks was the gateway workout to the at-home fitness world. Before we knew it we were moving with Maia and doing ashtanga with Adrienne. Tracey Anderson? Louisa Drake? Them too. And so it made sense to invest in equipment. Obvious choices included weights, skipping ropes and yoga mats, and, for those in the know, resistance bands.
Should you not fall into the above category, a primer: resistance bands are made of elastic work to challenge muscles by - you guessed it - creating resistance. Here's performance coach Dalton Wong demonstrating just how effective they can be:
Essentially, resistance bands make your muscles work harder during your workout, forcing them to maintain stability. In certain workouts (like Dalton's, above), the addition of the band means you engage multiple muscles simultaneously. As a rule of thumb, remember: the thicker the band, the harder you'll have to work. Ergo, newbies should start with thin bands.
Scroll on down for Grazia's selection of favourites. Just don't blame us for the sore glutes...
SHOP NOW: Best Resistance Bands UK
1 of 3Arteq Loop Bands, from £2.38
You can't beat Arteq for value. There are four bands here to choose from in order of resistance level, but the most affordable starts at £2.39 for a light resistance. You can buy the bundle for £22.38, but the individual bands are a great place to start.
2 of 3Twenty Two Mini Bands, £48
Shop three mini resistance bands in covetable colours from Dalton Wong. The colours represent which area they target: pink is for posture, purple for fat burning and blue for toning.
3 of 3Bala Resistance Bands, £21.95
Even the thinnest of Bala's resistance bands feel thick, durable and well made. The set of 5 comes in a handy travel case, making them perfect for travel.
READ MORE: The Best At-Home Yoga Videos You Can Follow For Free