[healthyme05]

Is there really a difference between resistance bands and dumbells? I would like to do my weight training at home so I'm wanting to buy the bands...but I'm not sure if they have any cons as opposed to the dumbells.

[RachelleS]

I have used dumbbells for years and I have never seen definition in my body. I started using resistance bands with the Slim Series and I felt it more. It's with the TaeBo Bootcamps using the resistance bands that I really feel it - I also feel it using Jari Love's Get Ripped tape which is with weights - I have a hard time using the barbell. SO - what I'm trying to say, I don't think it's so much whether you are using resistance bands or free weights but that you find the workout that works best with you. I also think it's okay to mix the two up so your body isn't used to the one thing. And it's also important to go heavier on your weights - if it is too easy to lift, you are not lifting heavy enough. You want those last few reps to be really, really hard. I started with the Firm and a lot of people have had great results with it. I tried the Body for Life program but I need to follow a tape rather then do it on my own.

Good luck! Rachelle

[Firmgirl]

I find that dumbbells do best, but you have to heavy up when a weight has become too light, otherwise it does no good since the muscle has adapted and will no longer define the muscle it was being used to shape.
I do like the bands for some leg work (pilates/yoga moves) but other they do niot work for my upper body.
Also with weights you can increas or decreas the weight amount, where as the bands offer only light/med/ heavy resistance, but ther are not any definite weights and if one resistnace becomes too light, but the next level is still too much, there is no increment that can build you up.