There are four things to consider when choosing the best resistance bands: style, tension range, material and extra accessories.

Style: The small loop band (aka mini band), booty band, and long loop band are all used for different exercises. But another thing to consider is the resistance of each one.

“Make sure you try these exercises with the lighter version to get the form right and then increase for greater challenge while maintaining good form and technique—something that should never be sacrificed,” adds Pata.

Tension range: Make sure to have an array of resistance options—just because you may be strong does not mean you should opt for all “heavy” resistance bands, (or vice versa) for instance.”When training smaller muscles groups like the rear deltoids, you may have to opt for a lighter version of elastic resistance,” says Pata.

“When training large muscle groups like legs, you may have to opt for greater resistance in order to feel the work and offer the muscles some challenge to work through.”

Material: There are typically two types of resistance bands: rubber (hard) and elasticized fabric (soft).Pata is a fan of elastic (rubber) resistance bands.”Using elastic resistance in training opens the doors to creating great variety and effectiveness in workouts,” she says.

“One of the things I love about incorporating it into training for clients (and for myself) is that it’s a great way to change the emphasis placed on muscles during certain exercises, by changing the direction of pull of the elastic resistance.” That’s because the nature of elastic resistance is that it doesn’t rely on gravity.

O’Brien likes to use softer elasticized resistance bands.”I love the thick, soft fabric bands because these tend to have grips ensuring the band stays in place and distributes the resistance more evenly!” she says.

Extra accessories: Since most resistance bands come with multiple bands, Pata recommends getting a mesh bag for storage (if the set you buy doesn’t come with one.)”

Keep the bands away from the sun, salt water or too much heat or cold—they’ll degrade quickly in these conditions,” she says.