The stretch band or fitness band or stretch tube, whatever you decide to call it, is great for working at your own level. The way it works is, by pulling and stretching the band you create resistance against your muscle, therefore when we pull harder we are also working our muscle harder.

These are great for men, but especially great for women, who, let's face it, can't usually use any type of muscle building apparatus. However, their simple design and go at your own pace philosophy makes them perfect for even the most feeble and frail among us.

These build muscles from the inside out; they work the center of the muscle and when you start working harder they start affecting greater portions of the muscle, eventually leading to muscle growth. They are widely used for rehabilitation purposes.

So when a man is injured while performing an impressive and physically demanding maneuver, they will often use these to rebuild their torn or split muscles. However, I do believe there are some cases of women injuring themselves by performing strenuous activities.

These bands can be used to work out many different portions of the body; they can be used for abdominal work outs, leg work outs, arm work outs, chest and even shoulder workouts. They are very beneficial to the entire body and great for anyone who is trying to become more physically fit.

For the abdominal you can perform such maneuvers as the abdominal crunch while using a band. This is easily done by roping the band around something sturdy enough that it won't move, even if you tried pulling on a rubber band that was attached to it.
After you have done that hold the band and do a crunch. The tension of the band will increase as you crunch inward, making your work out much more affective.

To work your back, you can string the band through a stationary hoop of some kind so that both the ends are hanging down. Grab both ends and step to a position where there is light tension when holding directly in front of you.

Now thrust your arms downward and outward so that you clash knuckles behind your behind. This will work your back muscles and also your triceps.

To get the front of your body or the chest, try performing what is called the band chest press. After the rope is fastened into a stable position, hold it in your hand near your shoulder.

There should be little amount of tension here at this point already, now push the band forward. You will feel the strain in your pectoral muscles kind of like doing a pushup.