We love training with the best resistance band bar because it's compact, portable, versatile, and allows you to get a true full-body workout at home or on the go. But, what exactly is a resistance band bar? It's a lightweight bar that you use in tandem with the best resistance bands in various weight increments to perform a large array of exercises that target different parts of the body. It allows you to ditch free weights, kettlebells, and large exercise machines, making it a very popular choice for fitness enthusiasts that travel, have limited space at home, or want a convenient exercise option they can keep in their office.
Resistance band strength training is great for runners, cyclists, swimmers, and athletes of all kinds. If you're setting up your in-home training space, and don't have the room for one of the best all-in-one home gyms, investing in one of the best pieces of gym equipment for small spaces, like a resistance band bar, is the way to go. We researched a variety of different options to bring you a comprehensive list of the best resistance band bars available right now. Let’s get started.
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The Best Resistance Band Bars - Our Top Picks
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- TRX Rip Trainer
- Synergee Resistance Bow
- Stroops Fit Stik Pro
- Stroops Fit Stik Bar
- Jaquish Biomedical X3 Elite
TRX Rip Trainer
SPECS
- Length: 23.5"
- Maximum lbs. of resistance: 20 lbs.
TRX is behind some of the most accessible, portable, and effective gym equipment in the business. The TRX Rip Trainer is a band-based training system that utilizes a 20-pound resistance band, and secure anchor points in your home, office, gym, etc., to deliver a fully customizable, full-body workout.
This trainer includes the Rip Trainer bar, medium 20-pound resistance cord, safety strap, door anchor, instructional guide, and carrying bag. It's highly effective at developing core strength, increasing endurance, and honing one's mobility and coordination. It can be used alone, or as a companion kit to the TRX Suspension Trainer.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Versatile
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- Only comes with one 20-pound resistance cable
BUY: TRX Rip Trainer
Synergee Resistance Bow
SPECS
- Length: 55"
- Maximum lbs. of resistance: 300 lbs.
People love the budget-friendly, Synergee Resistance Bow, and after thoroughly researching it, so do we! This 55.5-inch bow comes with four interchangeable resistance bands (10 lb., 20 lb., 30 lb., 40 lb.) and has a whopping 300-pound weight capacity to accommodate a huge array of exercises for users of all levels.
This resistance band and bow strength training system allows you to tone your body and strengthen your muscles from head to toe. It's lightweight and portable, making it an excellent travel-friendly option. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a paper training manual. However, there is a QR code in the product photos on the Synergee website for an exercise manual you can access anywhere.
What We Like
- Heavy weight capacity
- Budget-friendly
- Comes with 4 resistance bands
- Durable build
What We Don't Like
- No paper training manual
- Long length might inhibit airline travel
Stroops Fit Stik Pro Bar
SPECS
- Length: 39"
- Maximum lbs. of resistance: Not provided
This 39-inch functional training bar by Stroops is perfect for use with Stroops Slastix resistance bands (sold separately) or cable machines for an enormous range of full-body exercises. It's outfitted with two swiveling eyelets for rotational and asymmetrical exercises and coated hand holds for a no-slip grip.
It's pricey, but worth the investment for the versatility it provides. Plus, it's durable, made in the USA, and built to last.
What We Like
- Durable
- Lightweight (1.7 lb. bar)
- Portable
- Versatile
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- No resistance bands included
Stroops Fit Stik Bar
SPECS
- Length: 18"
- Maximum lbs. of resistance: Not provided
We're a fan of Stroops fitness accessories as they're high-quality, durable, and built to withstand the toughest of workouts. The Stroops Fit Stik Bar is no exception to this rule. This 18-inch functional training bar with two swivel eyelets for rotational capability allows you to do a wide variety of exercises.
It's extra travel-friendly at under a pound, and its shorter length is perfect for side isolated exercises. It does not come with resistance bands, so you'll have to purchase those separately, but Stroops offers a nice array in varying weight increments.
What We Like
- Shorter bar for isolated exercises
- Durable
- Portable
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- No resistance bands included
BUY: Stroops Fit Stik Bar
Jaquish Biomedical X3 Elite
SPECS
- Length: 21.5"
- Maximum lbs. of resistance: 600 lbs.
The Jaquish Biomedical X3 Elite is a complete home gym system that provides efficient, portable, exercise benefits comparable to those of conventional weight machines, squat racks, and home gyms, through variable resistance training. Purchasing this set comes with an easy-to-follow X3 12-week program as well as four X3 interchangeable resistance bands.
The bar itself is made of heavy-duty alloy steel, and the X3 ground plate protects ankles from high-intensity workout forces. This system can accommodate up to 600 pounds of force, making it the heaviest-hitting system on this list. The X3 Elite is easier on the joints, and harder on the muscle for incredible full-body workouts. You can complete a huge assortment of exercises with this set, making it a perfect portable gym for small spaces, offices, or when you're on the move.
What We Like
- Up to 600 lbs. of available force
- Complete total body set
- 4 X3 resistance bands included
- Durable
- Portable
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- Not for everyone
BUY: Jaquish Biomedical X3 Elite
Benefits of Resistance Band Bars
Resistance band bars are awesome because they can function as a portable substitution for an all-in-one gym, plus they have a small footprint and offer a wide range of exercise options.
Resistance band bars are very light on their own, and because resistance bands use bodyweight to reach the weight increment they're designed for, they weigh virtually nothing when not in use, making them simple to transport, store, and move.
Finally, resistance band training is safer and easier on the joints than using free weights or barbells.
What to Look for in a Resistance Band Bar
When looking for the best resistance band bar, consider length, price, props included, resistance weight capacity, and durability. Every bar that made this cut is durable and built to last. Some come with resistance bands, and some include only the bar. You'll want to check the resistance weight capacity of the bar to make sure it's compatible with your training. Additionally, although all of these bars are lightweight and portable, some are longer than others, so you'll want to note the length to ensure it's the right travel-friendly option for you.
FAQs About Resistance Band Bars
Are resistance band bars effective?
Yes, resistance band bars in tandem with resistance bands are highly-effective strength training tools. They offer an incredible amount of versatility for true total body workouts.
What level of resistance band should I get?
You should get multiple levels of interchangeable resistance bands for different exercises and to continue to challenge your muscles as you grow stronger. In general, it's good to have light (10-20 lbs.), medium (20-30 lbs.), and heavy (30-50 lbs.) options for versatility and to intensify your workouts as you gain muscle.
How thick should a resistance band be?
Resistance band thickness varies depending on weight increments. You don't want something so thin that it will snap easily during a workout, but lighter resistance bands are going to be thinner than heavier ones, which is fine. For larger muscle groups like legs, lats, and glutes, you'll want a heavier, thicker resistance band, versus a lighter, thinner resistance band for smaller muscle groups like arms and abs.