Portable Fitness Specialist Shares Top 3 Choices for Mobility Workout Gear
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As summer approaches, fitness enthusiasts who are planning to travel might find it challenging to maintain their workout routines without access to traditional gym equipment. However, a range of portable and versatile workout tools has emerged as the perfect solution for travelers, offering a balance of multi-functionality and compactness.
According to a 2017 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, resistance bands can be just as effective as other forms of resistance training for increasing muscle strength [1]. This makes them an excellent choice for travelers seeking to maintain their strength training routine on the go.
Resistance Bands
Extremely versatile, resistance bands can be used for strength training, flexibility, and rehabilitation, and they can easily replace dumbbells without taking up much space in travel bags [1]. They come in two main types: tube bands and flat bands. The best resistance bands are lightweight, flexible, and ultra-portable, making them indispensable for fitness-obsessed light packers [2].
For beginners, the Smarter Life set of loop bands is recommended due to their ease of use and the fact that they often come with manuals showing various exercises [3]. For the more advanced, pull-up bands are suggested. They are longer and stronger, making them suitable for a wider range of exercises [3].
Among the best resistance bands on the market, the Fit Simplify set is named the best budget pick [4]. Another universally praised set is from Spawn Fitness, which is specifically designed for glute training [5].
Other Portable Workout Equipment
Jump ropes are lightweight and excellent for cardio workouts, providing an effective way to get the heart rate up during travel [1]. Core sliders or ab wheels are compact and effective for core strengthening [1]. Foldable or travel yoga mats provide a portable surface for stretching and floor exercises, making them a convenient addition to any traveler's fitness kit [1].
Suspension Training
Suspension trainers, such as the TRX Go, can take bodyweight workouts to a whole new level of intensity and train muscles that may not be engaged with bodyweight alone [6]. They are small enough to fit into a backpack and offer a full-body workout [7]. According to a 2021 study published in the journal Nutrients, suspension training may be more effective at counteracting the effects of aging than bodyweight or resistance band training [8].
Portable Gym Sets
For those seeking an all-in-one solution, the Gymproluxe All-in-One Portable Gym offers up to 200 lbs (90 kg) of resistance and fits into a carry-on luggage [9]. It allows for over 100 different exercises, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a comprehensive workout solution [9].
In conclusion, the best compact and multi-functional workout equipment options for travelers during the summer of 2022 are primarily lightweight and portable tools such as resistance bands, jump ropes, mini loop bands, and foldable mats. These options are favored for their portability, multi-functionality, and ability to support a range of fitness levels from beginner to advanced [1]. They are budget-friendly, lightweight, and do not require bulky space, making them ideal for travelers especially during the summer when outdoor workouts or hotel gyms may not be reliable [1].
[1] Journal of Physical Activity and Health
[2] Healthline
[3] Men's Journal
[4] Shape
[5] Women's Health
[6] TRX
[7] Gymproluxe
[8] Nutrients
[9] Gymproluxe
- Resistance bands, such as the Smarter Life set for beginners or Spawn Fitness bands for the more advanced, are excellent choices for maintaining strength training while traveling due to their multi-functionality, compactness, and ease of use.
- For a full-body workout during travel, suspension trainers like the TRX Go can be constructed anywhere and are small enough to fit into a backpack, offering intensity not possible with bodyweight alone.
