resistance band care · resistance tubes and bands · May 20, 2022

Do Resistance Bands Wear Out?

by Priya Samuel

Yes. Resistance bands do wear out over time. But it all depends on how you use and take care of them.

Common reasons for resistance bands to snap

1. Overstretching

Think of resistance bands as large rubber bands. What happens when you keep stretching a rubber band beyond its point of elasticity? It snaps, right?

Ditto with resistance bands. When you overstretch them, the pressure on the latex increases at the point of connection. This causes the latex to tear and ultimately snap.

2. Improper storage

High-quality resistance bands are usually made of natural latex that contains moisture which keeps your bands elastic.

If you store your bands under the sun or in dry and hot conditions, the latex becomes dry and brittle causing them to snap when stretched.

Pro tip: Use a silicone-based lubricant occasionally to condition your bands and prevent them from getting brittle.

3. Anchoring resistance bands around hard objects

Resistance bands aren’t meant to be anchored to a tree, metal rod, eye hooks, or other rough objects. Doing so would easily damage the latex and cause tears.

So if you want to do those triceps pulldowns or overhead presses, go ahead and get a door anchor.

4. ‘Sawing’

Nope, we don’t mean chopping your band with a saw.

‘Sawing’ is when you thread your resistance band and pull it side-to-side similar to a pulley. This action causes friction and heat and could potentially melt your band.

To avoid this, tie a knot in the band around the anchor.

How long do resistance bands last?

A latex resistance band can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Resistance tubes and fabric resistance bands can last from 1 to 3 years.

The lifespan of resistance bands depends on the below factors.

1. Quality

Bands made of low-grade latex are bound to wear out very soon. So ensure that you check the specifications and invest in a premium brand that’ll last longer.

2. Frequency of usage

If you use your resistance band daily, you would probably have to replace it every 6 to 8 months. Using them twice a week means they could last for a year or two.

3. Type of band

Resistance tubes tend to last longer than loop bands. But with a good-quality brand like Burnlab, both tube bands and loop bands can last equally long.

Mini loop bands are relatively thicker, can’t be stretched too far, and hence last quite long.

How to make resistance bands last longer

Never stretch a resistance band beyond 2.5 times its resting length. (2 times if you want to be extra safe.)
Don’t anchor them around rough surfaces.
Store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and cold conditions.
Use a damp cloth to clean your resistance bands. Avoid harsh chemicals and soap.
Don’t use them near a swimming pool as chlorine can damage them.
Don’t shorten your band to increase the resistance. Instead, buy a set of bands with different resistances.
While working out, don’t step on the band if the floor has an abrasive surface.