Progressing with the Strength Bands and Cables
I really appreciate the way the 2 companies that make the equipment I use design their products. When it comes to a more precise method of 1-2 lb. increments bodylastics are the best. I’ve found that I can do 5 lb. increases much like I could with dumbbells. Actually the strength bands and chest expander both work a lot like dumbbells. Many of the exercises mimic dumbbell exercises. Both, to one degree or another, can also be used like wall pulley systems too. The chest expander (cables), I use from lifelineusa go up in 10 lb. increments.
I’ve been following the Reg Park Cable Course. Reg Park, John Grimek, Joe Bonomo, Earl Liederman, Charles Atlas, believe it or not, all used chest expanders. I improvise with some of the exercises, and add squats, crunches and chest presses to make it a whole body workout. Reg Park recommended starting with 6-8 reps and building up to 15, then add a cable and start again. It is a one set system. In "Building the Classic Physique the Natural Way" Steve Reeves recommends us O50 types to do one set too going from 12-15 reps. When you can do 16 add resistance and start again.
Because the bodylastics are easier to add resistance with I can usually start with 12 reps after increases in resistance. With the 10 lb. jump with the cables I usually have to start with 6 or 8 reps.
When I followed this type of progressive resistance in the Spring I made some nice strength gains and toned up more. So far now in the Fall it seems to be repeating. The stronger bands are making the rep gains more difficult, so instead of adding a rep a week, it can take up to 2 weeks. I really try to stick with Steve Reeves’ advice of perfect form, and the last rep should be difficult, but still done in good form. No cheating.
It took me a while to experiment with different training systems, and the one I’m presently following seems to be working pretty well for the goals I’m working for. It took a while to develop a feel for working out with the elastics, but it has been worth it. I trust them now, I’m seeing strength gains and changes in my physique. They travel well too. I don’t need a gym.
