L

ets begin by classifying elastic resistance as a unique mode of

resistance. There are 3 traditional modes of resistance training:
Isometric, Isotonic, and Isokinetic. Elastic resistance has unique
properties compared to the 3 traditional modes, in that the resistance
increases as the band is stretched; therefore, elastic resistance should be
considered its own mode of resistance training. Both bands and tubing
exhibit similar properties.
One of the first questions you may ask is, How much resistance
do the bands produce? In order to answer that question, well need
to review some basic biomechanics of resistance training, in particular
differentiating force and torque.
FORCE: This is basically resistance. With elastic resistance, the
force produced by the band depends on 3 factors: the elastic coefficient
(a constant), the amount of elastic material (cross section area), and the
percent change in length, giving us the formula:
F = k * CSA * L

Remember that k remains constant; therefore, if you increase the

length or increase the cross-section area (CSA), the force will increase
proportionally. Generally, the different colors of band indicate different
thicknesses (CSA) which increase resistance levels. The percent change in
resting length (L) is calculated by the formula:

%L = [(Final length Resting Length)/Resting Length]*100

Simply put, if you double the resting length, you have elongated
100%; if you take a 1 meter length of band and stretch it to 2 meters,
you have elongated 100%.

Once you are able to determine how long the band has been stretched,
you can use a chart to calculate the force produced based on the Thera-Band
color. For example, a 1 meter length of Red band stretched to 100% (double
length, or 2 meters) gives us about 4 pounds of force. Each progressive step
represents a consistent pull force increase of 25% in the clinical range (Tan
through Black) and 40% in the advanced range (Silver through Gold).

Color Progression
Resistance in Pounds at:
Thera-Band
Band/Tubing Color

Increase from Preceding

Color at 100% Elongation

100%
Elongation

200%
Elongation

Thera-Band Tan

2.4

3.4

Thera-Band Yellow

25%

3.0

4.3
5.5

Thera-Band Red

25%

3.7

Thera-Band Green

25%

4.6

6.7

Thera-Band Blue

25%

5.8

8.6

Thera-Band Black

25%

7.3

10.2

Thera-Band Silver

40%

10.2

15.3

Thera-Band Gold

40%

14.2

21.3

*Represents typical values. All products not available in all colors.

While elastic resistance can increase in force exponentially when stretched

past 500% elongation, clinical elongations rarely exceed 250%, providing a
relatively linear force curve:

Force (pounds)

The Science of Thera-Band

Elastic Resistance

Percent Elongation
2

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