Rating of the best expander for 2024

The name of the expanders comes from the Latin word for stretching. Today it is a whole series of equipment that includes certain sports equipment. All of them are united by the fact that the exercises performed with their help are based on springy deformation. The elastic components of the projectile, or one such element, provide the load when opposing the movement. Different models from different manufacturers may differ in the material of manufacture (rubber or other elastic materials), but they must be spring-loaded. The rating of the best expander for 2024 will help you choose the best one and understand its true purpose.

Purpose and types

One of the features of the resistance bands is that training with these shells is aimed exclusively at certain (not large) muscle groups. Exercises with them are called isolating.

All expanders are ideal for:

• strengthening and maintaining muscle tone in between classes;
• strength and aerobic training for athletes and bodybuilders.

Another important reason for choosing an expander is that this compact projectile takes up very little space. Most of the models will easily fit into a bag or even a pocket. This practicality allows you to take it on the road, travel and even to work (by the way, using a brush expander can calm your nerves or relieve tension before an upcoming interview for a new job).

Almost all expanders are rightfully called universal. This suggests that both male and female representatives will be able to successfully train. At the same time, it is extremely convenient that the power load can be adjusted taking into account the physical capabilities of a person.

Classification

The principle of functioning of all expander is the counteraction of its bending component to the movement of the human body. Often this elastic component is made from natural rubber or is spring-loaded. This interaction between the person and the projectile provides the force of the load on the muscles.

As for the types of load, two are distinguished:

1. Stretching machines.
2. Compression gear.

Each of them, in accordance with the name, requires some effort on the part of the athlete (stretching / squeezing).

In addition, an extended classification of resistance bands is also used in professional sports. The main criterion in it is the group of muscles involved in training. This is how expanders are distinguished for loading muscles:

• brushes;
• legs;
• elbows;
• breasts;
• shoulders;
• boxers;
• ski athletes;
• rubber bands or latex bands;
• "Butterflies";
• all groups.

In order to most accurately determine the optimal choice of the projectile, it is necessary to dwell in more detail on each of the groups intended for individual muscles.

Carpal

They are one of the most numerous categories of this equipment. Differ in:

• form;
• material of manufacture.

The most famous in this group is the brush "ring" made of rubber. Between themselves, the rings differ in the degree of resistance during compression, measured in kg. In specialized stores, you can purchase options with a resistance of 15 to 65 kg. the difference between the models is 5 kg.

As for the material of manufacture, the main characteristic differences are indicators for:

• rigidity;
• thickness and diameter;
• outer cover - smooth or with massage elements.

It is recommended to use this type of expander for the following purposes:

• strengthening the brushes;
• stabilization of blood flow;
• normalization of the skin condition on the hands.

It is worth noting that modern medicine recommends using this type of expander not only for people who are actively involved in sports, but also for those citizens who need:

• normalize peripheral circulation;
• heal joints;
• tidy up the vessels;
• get rid of insomnia and hypertension.

Also, one cannot fail to note its benefits for people whose activities are associated with hard mental work, including schoolchildren and students.

If this equipment is purchased by a professional athlete, then it should be borne in mind that the resistance must be gradually increased. That is, from time to time change the expander to a model with a higher resistance.

Small balls, eggs or metal cocoons are almost the same version of the ring-shaped trainer. Manufacturers offer these models with a stiffness of 5-25 kg.

The spring modification is called "scissors". They differ from others by handles at the connection of rings with springs. Some of them are equipped with repetition sensors or dynamometers.

Despite the chosen modification, all wrist expanders are compact and multifunctional. Designed for a range of exercises, they are great for strengthening not only the hands, but also the forearms.

The soft handles make it possible to use the equipment in any setting and is comfortable to hold in your hand during exercise. It is worth noting that the maximum load is provided by shells with a rigid metal handle, which create optimal resistance for professionals. For sports training of experienced athletes, models with a load of more than 50 kg are suitable.

Do not think that only athletes can use wrist bands. They are ideal for people of creative professions - painters, sculptors, musicians. That is, those who need a constant warm-up of their hands - computer scientists and programmers, in whose hand there is a "mouse" for control almost continuously.

Elbow

These machines are designed primarily for the muscles of the wrists. That is, they are ideal for athletes who practice arm wrestling.

This is facilitated, first of all, by the fact that working with it involves not only squeezing (unclenching) the hands, but a somewhat non-standard position in which the equipment has additional fixation at the elbow. Thus, in addition to the muscles of the hand, the lateral shoulder groups are also drawn into the work.

Pectoral

The use of equipment is aimed at strengthening the pectoral muscles. Also, the back, triceps and shoulder girdle are actively involved in the exercises.

The principle of operation of such equipment is based on the compression of elastic rubber cords (springs). The manufacturers guarantee that such workouts will 100% lead to an enlarged and lifted chest. And, judging by the positive reviews, this statement is really true.

Brachial

Strengthens and strengthens the muscles of the shoulder girdle. Most of their functionality is based on stretching. They stand out from others by the material and the number of springs.They can not only be made of steel or rubber, but can also be removable. This allows you to save on the purchase of different simulators with different loads.

Shoulder rubber trainers, offered in the form of:

• circles;
• twisters (eights);
• double twisters.

Exercise machines of this type are often used to further strengthen muscle groups in the legs. If the equipment has handles, it is imperative to control them so that they are comfortable. Regardless of the place of attachment (on the hands or feet), the simulator should in no case press or rub, cause any discomfort or, moreover, pain. If this does happen, you need to replace the model with a product with a foam rubber handle.

In order to make it convenient for athletes to choose an expander suitable for resistance, manufacturers have provided different colors for handles and other component models:

• yellow - weak resistance, intended for beginners;
• green - rather weak resistance;
• red - average;
• blue - high level of resistance.

It is worth noting that such color variations are not provided by all manufacturers, so the resistance level of the simulator must be additionally checked with the store's consultant.

Rubber harness and latex tape

The use of these machines guarantees stretching and strengthening of the muscles, optimizing joint mobility. Mostly used in the classroom:

• oriental martial arts;
• yoga;
• boxing;
• pilates.

Optimal resistance for muscle training minimizes the risk of injury. A well-chosen exercise cycle promotes the development of all major muscle groups. That is, in fact, to replace many sports equipment. This makes it just the same universal way to maintain excellent physical shape for all athletes and athletes.

You can buy a tourniquet or tape in a roll or in pieces of a certain size. Before deciding on the length, you need to take into account the fact that the equipment must be measured with a margin for winding it around the arm. This will help you improvise further.

"Butterfly"

Compression trainer develops:

• back;
• chest;
• hamstrings;
• buttocks;
• shoulder girdle;
• press.

Ergonomic design contributes to durability. The compact equipment can be used anywhere without any problems. Safety is ensured by the presence of plastic springs. The neoprene covering the handles ensures comfortable use.

Leg trainers

These products are specialized to increase the load on the leg muscles. May be in the form:

• eights;
• elastic bands in the form of a circle.

Some manufacturers offer special models equipped with a cuff for better fit on the leg.

Resistance bands for boxers and skiers

Different models of this type of expander differ from each other in a different amount of rubber components intended for stretching. They are successfully used in:

• skiing;
• boxing;
• swimming.

Good for strengthening the muscles of the shoulder girdle, legs, arms and back. They are often used to restore muscles after injuries suffered by athletes. This model of simulators is successfully mounted on horizontal bars, on a wall bars and even on a regular bed. Basically, you can attach it almost anywhere. The set of this simulator includes from two to four harnesses made of rubber, each of which ends in a loop-shaped handle.

Multifunctional (universal)

The products developing and maintaining the tone of the back, shoulder girdle and abs are multifunctional and lightweight. You can improvise with them with a variety of activities, making them more effective. The durable and non-slip material from which the clips and stops are made provides not only comfort during exercise, but also guarantees the durability of the equipment.

So, having familiarized yourself with the main characteristics of the expander of different groups, you can go directly to the most popular models.

The most popular resistance bands

Having considered the differing resistance bands from different categories, the choice should be stopped on the following models:

• Ironmind Captains of Crush - for the brush;
• Bradex Iron Grip;
• Starfit ES-702 Power Twister - chest;
• Start Up Nt36011;
• Nike Accessories Universal (NER12691NS) - universal;
• Indigo 3 cords (00021321) 200;
• Bradex Muscle Complex;
• Original fit tools Ankle-EX - for legs;
• Protrain 18137 - "butterfly";
• Lite Weights 0891LW.

It is worth getting to know each of them in more detail.

Carpal

Ironmind captains of crush

Legendary expander for professional athletes. This series includes the toughest hand trainers available. Their resistance ranges from 45 kg in the lightweight version to 165 kg in the strongest machine. By the way, to note how strong the fourth modification is, you need to know that five people on the entire planet were able to squeeze it.

The strength of these models is provided by the materials of manufacture - aviation aluminum and heavy-duty steel of the springs. The model is great for armwrestlers and weightlifters of a highly professional level. Develops the muscles of the forearms and develops grip strength.

• compactness;
• comfortable grip;
• the ability to train the pectoral muscles (when gripping with both hands);
• anti-slip notch on the handles;
• spring calibration;
• rigid fastening of the springs to the handles - prevents the equipment from turning around its own axis;
• springs made of anti-corrosion steel;
• one hundred year guarantee.

• high price;
• different load on the fingers due to the fact that the handles are not parallel;
• the pad first injures the skin.

Bradex Iron Grip

One of the most comfortable resistance bands to use for developing hand muscles. Its cushioned foam pads provide optimal hand hold to the machine. The equipment does not slip out of the hand and does not irritate the skin. Compactness and low weight make this model of the simulator can be accompanied both on the road and at work.

The shell is convenient for athletes of any level. It is easy for beginners to handle, and it is also suitable for professionals. In fact, "Iron Grip" is comfortable in everything, improving the physical performance of boxers, basketball players, tennis players, and bowling athletes. But, this does not mean at all that it cannot be used when training other athletes.

• sold in any specialty store;
• reliability of a structure made of metal;
• the size is easily adjustable.

• the resistance level remains unchanged.

For training the pectoral muscles and the shoulder girdle

Starfit ES-702 Power Twister

A model designed primarily for bodybuilders. A fairly heavy (up to 1.8 kg) simulator is intended for training serious athletes. Rounded handles connecting a stainless steel spring allow the projectile to bend, twist and turn and turn in different directions. It is used to develop the muscles of the shoulder girdle and pectoral muscles.

• versatility - the ability to pump biceps, abs, back and forearms;
• loops that prevent the simulator from breaking out during training;
• high (up to 60 kg) load;
• compactness.

• load is not controlled;
• escaping from the hands can cause serious injury.

Start Up Nt36011

One of the most popular chest simulators is quite suitable for the development of the physical capabilities of all households, regardless of gender and age, level of physical fitness. This is directly facilitated by the versatile design of sports equipment:

• four plastic handles;
• four springs with a universal length of 32 cm.

The load on each of them is 10 kg. Removable springs allow adjustment of the load level. Convenient to store unassembled - the equipment takes up very little space.

• is inexpensive;
• the design is reliable;
• training is effective;

• handles are not equipped with soft pads;
• the equipment does not provide adequate resistance to joints, which allows people of any build to use this expander.

Nike Accessories Universal (NER12691NS)

This model of simulators is universal. Perfectly shapes the shoulder girdle and pectoral muscles. The simulator is designed exclusively for professionals who play sports for a long period of time.

Manufacturers offer orange and black colors.

• little weight;
• the braided cable does not cling to hair and clothing;
• Foam pads are non-slip and prevent calluses.

• high price.

Trainers - "butterfly"

Protrain 18137

It is considered the ideal female trainer - "butterfly". Used to train muscle groups:

• breasts;
• buttocks;
• back;
• hands;
• legs.

Compact and easy to use. Most effective for correcting and shaping an ideal figure. It is made in the form of a figure of eight, in appearance it really resembles the wings of a butterfly. The braid is made of foamed soft rubber.

• strength and durability due to the material of manufacture - spring steel;
• compactness;
• suitable for everyone, regardless of gender and level of physical fitness;
• low cost.

• a small level of resistance;
• the load is not regulated.

Lite Weights 0891LW

One of the best in the model range of "butterflies". It is ubiquitous and can be purchased at a sports store. Levers made of quality metal with soft pads. This minimizes the risk of skin injury during exercise.

The connecting element is made of elastomer. Convenient storage of this expander is ensured by its low weight and compactness. It is universal for everyone, regardless of age, gender and fitness.

• democratic cost;
• high-quality and durable construction;
• ease of use.

• the rubber plug located in the middle can periodically pop out;
• load level unregulated.

The best expander for skiers

Indigo 3 cords (00021321) 200

In the range of resistance bands for athletes who go in for skiing, this model is the most budgetary. With its help, you can practice movements resembling movements with sticks. The equipment also shows itself effectively in the physical training of combatants, improving the speed and dynamics of techniques. With its help, all muscle groups are trained qualitatively. Covering the rubber band with a special braid does not allow it to catch on the athlete's clothes or hair during training.

Its long length (2 m) allows even tall athletes to use it successfully. Most suitable for athletes - beginners or teenagers. If the level of physical fitness of an athlete is high, this equipment will definitely not be enough for him.

• versatility;
• soft neoprene handles;
• sold everywhere.

• fairly weak resistance.

Best all-round expander

Bradex "Muscle Complex"

This projectile is universal and, if used correctly, is quite capable of replacing all the main simulators, while conveniently fitting on a shelf in a closet. Complete workouts are provided with an adjustable level of the required load (in accordance with the level of a person's sports training).

The simulator's mobility, provided by its compactness and lightness, allows you to carry it with you and use it in your free time. With a maximum load of 100 kg, the resistance is 8.2 kg. The expander is made from the following materials:

• plastic - ABS;
• PVC;
• stainless steel;
• polypropylene;
• polyester.

All materials are reliable and durable. The rather high cost of the shell is due to its excellent quality. The number of exercise variations with its use is practically unlimited.

• high quality level;
• universal trainer 5 in 1;
• assembly speed;
• the ability to perform a wide variety of exercises;
• compactness and light weight.

• noticeable smell of plastic;
• possible contraindications for use.

The best leg expander

Original fit tools Ankle-EX

The adjustable resistance of this leg expander and a secure fit with special Velcro straps make this model popular with athletes who want to work out different muscle groups on the legs. The model consists of two leg cuffs made of nylon and interconnected by elastic cables. Fixation is possible in two ways:

• under the calves;
• on the hips.

The maximum possible load of the simulator is 20 kg.

• universal for men and women;
• Made from strong and durable latex;
• compact.

• only 6 months manufacturer's warranty.
• only half a year warranty.

Summing up, we can safely say that a wide range of resistance bands from different manufacturers provides a choice of a simulator for absolutely everyone, regardless of gender, level of physical fitness and the desired result. The main thing is to soberly assess your capabilities, it will be determined which muscle group you need to train and in a timely manner replace the simulator with a model with high resistance.