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5 Best Resistance Bands for Women in 2021 + Buying Guide to Help You Choose!

5 Best Resistance Bands for Women in 2021 + Buying Guide to Help You Choose!

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Resistance bands are one of the simplest fitness products you can buy — so why are there so many of them to choose from? Does it really matter which one you buy? What are the best resistance bands for women? We have answers for you.

While we’re not going to tell you that buying the wrong resistance band can ruin your life, there is definitely a noticeable difference between a high-quality band and a piece of junk. Trust us on that — we looked at 34 different resistance bands to make this list, and there was a lot of junk mixed in there. Luckily, we also found some great options, including our favorite, the Fit Simplify

If you want to improve your workouts at home or on the road, resistance bands are a versatile, inexpensive way to do it — assuming you get a good one, that is. You could take your chances with buying the first one you come across, or you could look at our top picks below and get yourself one of the best.

1. Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands — Best Exercise Band for Women

Fit Simplify Resistance Loop BandsThe set includes five 12” x 2” bands, each offering a different resistance level from “X-Light” to “X-Heavy,” clearly labeled for convenience. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned athlete, these bands cater to various fitness levels and exercise goals.

 

Fit Simplify thoughtfully includes a carrying bag, perfect for taking your bands to the gym, an exercise class, or even while traveling. The heavy-duty rubber material ensures these bands hold up under intense workouts. Even the lighter-resistance bands are impressively durable. If you somehow manage to snap one, maybe double-check that you haven’t turned into a comic book superhero!

For newcomers to resistance band workouts, the set includes an instruction booklet. While basic, it provides a solid starting point. For more advanced guidance, online resources can help you maximize your workouts.

The bands come in three different color palettes, many featuring pink tones, catering to personal preferences. While the colors won’t enhance your workout, it’s always nice to have options!

A Few Considerations

The bands occasionally roll during high-intensity exercises, which can be uncomfortable if they’re directly on your skin. Placing them over clothing helps minimize this issue. Additionally, the bands contain latex, so if you have an allergy, you’ll need a latex-free alternative.

Why Choose Fit Simplify Resistance Bands?

Pros:

  • Extremely durable and reliable
  • Offers a range of resistance levels
  • Convenient carrying bag included
  • Stylish color options
  • Instruction booklet for beginners

Cons:

  • May roll during intense workouts
  • Unsuitable for those with latex allergies

With their durability, ease of use, and thoughtful design, these bands are an excellent addition to any fitness routine.

2. TheFitLife Exercise Resistance Bands with Handles — Best Travel Resistance Bands

TheFitLife Exercise Resistance Bands with Handles

TheFitLife Resistance Training System: Compact and Versatile for Total Body Workouts

TheFitLife resistance bands are more than just a set of bands—they’re a complete training system. Designed for versatility, these bands allow you to stack multiple levels together, reaching up to 150 pounds of resistance. Whether you’re toning or targeting specific muscle groups, this set can accommodate your fitness goals.

Durable and Adjustable for Any Workout

The thin yet sturdy bands are perfect for mixing and matching resistance levels, though the highest setting may feel lighter than expected. While they’re excellent for toning, they may not be ideal for building significant strength.

The set includes padded handles that offer a comfortable grip for any hand size, making them suitable for sharing. For lower-body workouts, adjustable ankle straps ensure a snug fit, preventing irritation during exercises like kickbacks. Additionally, the included door anchor expands your exercise options, allowing you to perform a variety of movements anywhere.

Perfect for Travel and Heavy-Duty Use

Compact and portable, this set is great for workouts on the go. Whether you’re in a motel room or a small apartment, you can get a solid workout without worrying about damaging furniture. The heavy-duty construction, including cross-stitched fabric and a carabiner that supports up to 260 pounds, makes it a durable choice for larger users.

A Minor Drawback

One downside is the strong odor these bands emit out of the box. The smell can transfer to your hands and requires thorough washing to remove.

Key Features at a Glance

Pros:

  • Provides up to 150 pounds of resistance
  • Comfortable padded handles for all hand sizes
  • Adjustable ankle straps for lower-body workouts
  • Durable construction supports heavier users
  • Compact and travel-friendly

Cons:

  • Resistance may feel lighter than advertised
  • Strong odor upon initial use

If you’re looking for a portable, versatile, and durable workout companion, TheFitLife resistance bands are an excellent choice. Perfect for toning and total-body workouts, they’ll keep you active no matter where life takes you.

3. Renoj Booty Bands — Best Resistance Band for Glutes

If your fitness goal includes a sculpted, head-turning posterior, the Renoj Booty Bands are a fantastic choice. While they aren’t designed for total-body workouts, these bands excel at targeting your glutes and lower body.

Designed for Comfort and Performance

This set includes three fabric bands offering light, medium, and heavy resistance. Slip them over your legs or hips to add extra intensity to your squats, kickbacks, and other glute-focused exercises. The non-slip material ensures they stay put, even during sweaty sessions, and the wide design evenly distributes resistance for maximum comfort.

The thick, durable fabric won’t snap or stretch out, making these bands perfect for long-term use. Unlike rubber bands, the fabric is gentle on sensitive skin and won’t roll or scrape during workouts. If they get grimy, no problem—just toss them in the wash for a quick refresh.

A Powerful Tool for Lower-Body Gains

These bands offer serious resistance, which is great for those looking to challenge their glutes. However, beginners may find them a bit intimidating. It can take a few workouts to feel comfortable using them, especially if you’re new to resistance training.

While they’re perfect for lower-body workouts, the bands are less versatile than some other options. You’ll need separate equipment if you want to train your arms, chest, or core.

Affordable and Effective

The Renoj Booty Bands deliver impressive results without breaking the bank. They’re an excellent investment for anyone focused on lower-body strength and toning.

Key Features at a Glance

Pros:

  • Ideal for glute-focused workouts
  • Non-slip material stays in place during exercises
  • Thick, durable, and washable fabric
  • Gentle on sensitive skin

Cons:

  • Resistance may be too challenging for beginners
  • Limited to lower-body exercises

If building a stronger, shapelier lower body is your priority, the Renoj Booty Bands are a must-have. Comfortable, durable, and effective, they’ll take your glute workouts to the next level.

4. HPYGN Resistance Bands —  Best Exercise Bands for Flexibility

The unique design on these resistance bands allows you to really improve your range of motion

HPYGN Resistance Bands

The HPYGN Resistance Bands stand out with their open-loop design, offering a unique and versatile alternative to traditional resistance bands. Resembling resistance towels, these bands prioritize comfort, flexibility, and customization, making them a valuable tool for various fitness routines.

Comfort Meets Versatility

Unlike closed-loop bands, these open-loop bands eliminate the need to fit body parts into a tight rubber circle, significantly reducing the risk of skin irritation. Each band measures 5 feet long and 6 inches wide, providing ample room for a full range of motion during exercises.

This design is ideal for building flexibility alongside strength. You can use the bands for hamstring stretches, deep shoulder stretches, or to enhance your yoga and Pilates practices. The resistance is endlessly customizable—choke up on the band for more challenge or let out slack for an easier workout. While the set includes three bands with varying resistance levels, even a single band offers plenty of versatility.

Ideal for Allergen-Free Workouts

These bands are latex-free and odorless, making them a fantastic option for people with allergies or sensitivities. Plus, they stay odor-free until you start sweating—an inevitable part of any good workout!

Considerations for Taller Users and Beginners

While the open-loop design allows for great flexibility, it can have a learning curve, especially for those new to resistance bands. Without a closed loop to guide you, finding the right resistance and maintaining proper grip may take practice. Additionally, taller users might find the 5-foot length limiting during certain exercises, particularly complex routines like barre workouts.

Key Features at a Glance

Pros:

  • Open-loop design offers limitless resistance customization
  • Excellent for improving flexibility and strength
  • Gentle on skin and free of latex and odors
  • Perfect for yoga, Pilates, and stretching routines

Cons:

  • Not as accommodating for taller users
  • Learning curve for beginners

The HPYGN Resistance Bands are a versatile, allergy-friendly option for anyone looking to enhance their workouts. Their open-loop design and adaptability make them perfect for improving both strength and flexibility, whether you’re practicing yoga, Pilates, or general fitness.

5. RitFit Single Resistance Exercise Band — Most Easy-to-Use Resistance Band

This band from RitFit isn’t as versatile as some of the other options on this list, a fact that works both for and against it

RitFit Single Exercise Band

The RitFit Resistance Band is the epitome of simplicity. Unlike complex systems with multiple bands and hardware, this single, 4-foot band with large handles delivers a no-fuss solution for light workouts and physical therapy.

A Simple Design for Focused Fitness

With only one resistance level, the RitFit band eliminates the need to sort through multiple bands or hardware. For many users, this simplicity is a big plus, especially those focused on gentle strength-building or improving flexibility. However, if you’re looking for variety, you’ll need to purchase additional bands, which can increase the overall cost.

Perfect for Physical Therapy and Flexibility

The straightforward design makes this band particularly popular for physical therapy. It’s easy to grab the resistance level you need and work on gently strengthening affected areas or improving range of motion. This feature also appeals to anyone seeking a hassle-free workout or a tool to limber up before hitting the gym.

Lightweight Yet Versatile

While the RitFit band isn’t designed for heavy lifting or advanced strength training, it’s excellent for muscle toning and stretching. It also includes a foam-covered door attachment, allowing you to expand your exercise options without worrying about damaging doorframes.

A Few Drawbacks

For serious fitness enthusiasts aiming for intense strength training, the RitFit band may not provide enough challenge. Additionally, buying multiple bands to achieve varying resistance levels can become costly over time.

Key Features at a Glance

Pros:

  • Simple and user-friendly design
  • Minimal clutter compared to multi-band systems
  • Ideal for physical therapy and flexibility exercises
  • Includes foam-covered door attachment for added versatility

Cons:

  • Not suitable for serious strength training
  • Purchasing multiple bands can be expensive

The RitFit Resistance Band is a fantastic option for those seeking simplicity, whether for physical therapy or light workouts. While it may not replace a full gym setup, its ease of use and versatility make it a valuable addition to your fitness routine.

What We Looked for in the Best Resistance Bands for Women

Not all resistance bands are created equal—especially when it comes to durability and functionality. If you’ve ever had a band snap mid-exercise, you know the importance of choosing high-quality options. For our reviews, we focused on the following key criteria to find the best resistance bands for women:

  • Durability: Sturdy enough to handle regular use without tearing or snapping.
  • Reliable Resistance Levels: Consistent tension for effective and predictable workouts.
  • Comfortable Design: Won’t irritate skin or cause discomfort during use.

How to Choose the Best Resistance Bands for Women

Resistance bands are simple yet powerful tools for fitness. While not overly complex, there are still a few factors to consider when making your choice. Our top pick, the Fit Simplify, checks all the boxes, but depending on your needs, another option may be more suitable.

Durability

A resistance band should withstand repeated use without compromising safety or quality. A snapping band can not only ruin your workout but also pose a serious injury risk. Durable materials, such as thick rubber or reinforced fabric, help ensure long-lasting performance.

To stay safe, check your bands regularly for wear and tear. If you notice any signs of damage, replace them immediately—better to be cautious than risk a potential accident.

Comfort

Uncomfortable bands can make workouts miserable. Poorly designed bands can rub your skin raw, pull at your hair, or slip into uncomfortable positions. These issues can sap your motivation to exercise.

Opt for bands with non-slip materials or wide, fabric designs to ensure a comfortable workout. The right band will let you focus on your routine without irritation or distraction.

Variety

Having access to multiple resistance levels allows for more versatile workouts. Not all muscle groups need the same level of resistance—your glutes might require more challenge than your triceps.

Many bands come in sets with color-coded resistance levels, making it easy to switch up your routine. Accessories like door anchors or ankle straps can also expand your exercise options, keeping your workouts engaging and effective.

Simplicity

Resistance bands are appealing because of their ease of use. However, some systems can be overly complex, requiring setup or confusing resistance level indicators. Look for bands with clear markings or color coding for hassle-free workouts.

If you prefer minimal setup, choose straightforward designs like single-loop bands or open-loop styles. These options let you jump straight into your workout without fussing over attachments or configurations.


By focusing on durability, comfort, variety, and simplicity, you can find a resistance band that fits your fitness goals and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for something versatile like Fit Simplify or simple like RitFit, the right band can elevate your workouts and keep you motivated.