/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/pmn/ILGQA7JWBVEJVOCKQCZOG7AN3Y.JPG "Resistance bands are the only equipment you need to stay in shape this summer")
Want a workout you can do on the go? The summer season is a popular time to travel. But being on vacation doesn’t mean you also have to take a vacation from your healthy habits.
Whether you’re spending time on the coast, road tripping to the Poconos, or traveling abroad, you’ll want a pump routine that’s fast, convenient, and affordable. And one of the most portable pieces of exercise equipment you should never leave home without is a versatile resistance band.
Resistance bands are inexpensive and lightweight, making them the perfect travel companion. And with a little creativity, this small but mighty muscle builder is the only toning tool needed for a myriad of exercise options, from strength training to stretching sore spots. Another benefit of resistance bands is that they are gentler on sensitive joints compared to bulkier gym equipment or free weights.
Here are my three favorite full-body resistance band exercises to pack on your summer outing. You will need a long resistance band and a looped one. Both can be purchased at Amazon, Target, or Walmart.
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Start by sitting down and wrapping your long resistance band around the center of your feet so it’s the same length at each end.
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Extend your legs and keep your back straight as you pull both sides of the band back until your elbows brush your ribs. Squeeze your shoulder blades together for a count of two, then release. Repeat 15 times.
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Start by placing your long resistance band behind your back so it rests on your shoulder blades. Hold one end in each hand. Adjust your feet into a stationary lunge position where your knees form a 90-degree angle, with your front knee over your ankle.
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Extend your arms to your sides at shoulder height. As you rise from your lunge stance, bring your arms together until they are parallel. Repeat this sequence 10 times, then switch legs.
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Place the rolled band on the legs, just above the knees. It should be smooth and even.
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With your weight in your heels, roll back at the hips to lower your body into a squat. Stay low as you side walk two strides to the left and then two strides to the right. Repeat for 30 counts (15 per leg).
Ashley Blake Greenblatt is a Certified Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach in South Jersey. Learn more about her virtual training program at ashleyblakefitness.com.
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