ResistanceBandTraining.com

When I started doing partner attached band training in the late 90’s it was definitely a learning curve I don’t wish on anyone. 

First of all, it’s new and some people don’t like change.  Secondly people are somewhat private about their fitness and teaming up is not something that is always comfortable for them especially is the other person is relying on you to get a workout.

I agree that can be a little uncomfortable, but the results and exercise fun that comes with it once they get comfortable  is very rewarding from a trainer standpoint.

That said I thought I would share with you a few key tips I use when I start to implement partner attached band training.

Tip 1

Start with an exercise that is easy for everyone to do.  My starter exercise is always staggered split squats or progression 2, forward reach lunges.   This is where the training partner faces the holder who is standing lateral to them while they hold.  Training partner either does a hands on hips split squat or a forward step lunge reach to the floor as they move toward the holding partner.

This is a great starting exercise because everyone can see everyone.  Both people can us all their senses…vision, auditory and tactile (feeling the band around the hips).  Doing this using the 2 minute continuous RBT sound track works great.  Just have them independently change training partners every 10 reps.  As a recovery drill have them do a 1 minute plank

Tip 2

Always start with black bands unless you know you have strong individuals.  Starting with linked up black bands allows them to not be overwhelmed or concerns about injury in case the band resistance is to strong.   If they are dominating the band, just have them work faster reps or incorporate an isometric hold for 2 second on every lunge rep.  You can also have a red band set up waiting to be added if some group is really getting after it.

The most important thing the first time is make sure they are successful.  To strong of bands could quickly end partner attached training.

Tip 3

Make sure you have taught the lower body band exercise you intend to use without bands at a prior camp session.  I typically have everyone do several body weight movements as part of their warm up.  As an example, I will have them do horizontal reach squats, over head reach lunges, horizontal squat pushes or presses and some lateral lunge reaching.

This allows me to teach the terminology and see how well they perform the movement.  If they do well, we are in band later that workout.  If most struggle we are going body weight that session.

Again, keep success high for your clients.  Don’t let them leave their first session frustrated.  If they are looking for harder workouts, you need to have some quick progression to give them during that first workout.

Partner attached band training is not only a great workout, it will make group training a fun team building fitness experience

Getting BETTER with BANDS

Dave

PS.   I take you through step by step how to implement partner attached band training in the Partner Band Training DVD.  Pretty good little resource if you are looking to maximize your band training.

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