Interview I did with a Registered Nurse who bought a Bodylastics system...

Q: What was your main reason for buying Bodylastics bands?

A: My main reason for buying the Bodylastics bands was ease of storage. Space is at a minimum right now, and I need to be able to put them away quickly and easily. Plus, they're portable, I can take them anywhere.

Q: Have you ever lifted weights? If so, do you think the bands are capable of replicating weight lifting exercises?

A: Yes, I have lifted weights; both freeweights and using machines. I think it's entirely possible for the bands to replicate freeweights and machine movements and effects, with the main difference you're less likely to injure yourself while using these bands... plus, you don't need a spotter! One other thing, if you use the smaller bands that give you just a little resistance, you can easily have an aerobic workout by doing more reps with the smaller bands, which is also great for warming up and cooling down.

Q: Some people like the social interaction of going to a gym, but for those serious about working out, do you feel that the stretchy Bodylastics elastic bands can stack up against the expensive machines in the gym?

A: With a little practice and effort, the Bodylastics system is almost comparable to gym equipment. In fact, it may be better in that I'd tried a bicep curl machine at our local YMCA and the range of motion that the machine allowed was very unnatural for me to the point that it was painful for me to even try to use it, so there was one exercise on the gym machine I couldn't do.

Q: What's your advice to people who are thinking about getting a long-term gym membership?

A: My advice for those thinking of a long-term gym membership is to think seriously about whether you're going to stick to it. You may for a while, but are you going to be stuck paying $50 or more per month (for 1, 2, or even 3 years) for something you may quit using after just a few months? If something happens and you can't workout, at least with the Bodylastics, they'll still be waiting for you when you decide you can or are ready to begin working out again.

Q: After having used the bands, do you think they are suitable for kids to use, especially those participating in sports?

A: As a nurse, I would highly recommend this system for kids. They can easily learn how to do the exercises and the chances of them getting hurt are much lower than if they tried using freeweights, machines or other exercise equipment.

-T. Pierce, R.N., Ohio