What is band stacking with resistance bands?
Band stacking, a technique that involves combining multiple bands to create new tension amounts, can be a powerful tool in your resistance training arsenal. It's not just about accommodating progression but also about empowering yourself to push your limits and achieve more.
As bands increase in size, the jumps in tension become larger. For instance, with Serious Steel band, the tensions are as follows:
- #0 Orange: 1/4 in. 2-15 lbs.
- #1 Purple: 1/2 in. 5-35 lbs.
- #2 Red: 13/16 in. 10-50 lbs.
- #3 Blue: 1-1/8 in. 25-80 lbs.
- #4 Green: 1-3/4 in. 50-120 lbs.
- #5 Black: 2-1/2 in. 60-150 lbs.
- #6 Yellow: 3-1/4 in. 80-200 lbs.
- #6.5 Gray: 3-1/2 in. 115 - 290 lbs.
- #7 Orange: 4 in. 120-300 lbs.
Transitioning from #6 to #6.5 or higher can be a daunting task, with a 25-90 lbs jump in tension. However, with the simple addition of a #2 band, you can ease into the higher tensions, increasing the load by only 10-50 lbs. It's a small change that can make a big difference, giving you the confidence to take on higher resistance levels.
Rubber Bands supports band stacking, which can be enabled in "Other Settings." There is a limit of 3 bands that can be stacked at a time.
There are some drawbacks to band stacking, including:
- The latex incurs additional wear and tear, which can be quite significant in some cases. Imagine rubber rubbing on rubber.
- Additional setup and adjustments of bands.
Band stacking is not required to benefit from resistance training with bands. Just keep practicing, and you'll get there!