This 3-Move Resistance Band Workout Will Strengthen & Sculpt Your Upper Body

Roxie Jones putting a resistance band between her wrists

Who says you need weights for a challenging and effective workout? Grab a resistance band and try this upper-body sequence from Alo Moves fitness instructor Roxie Jones. This mini sequence will target your arms, shoulders, and back to help build strength and improve your posture. Try it on its own or before a longer arm workout to maximize your gains.


Activation Warm-Up

 
Roxie Jones doing an activation warm-up
 
  1. Come to a half kneeling position with your right foot in front and your left knee on the mat. 

  2. Tuck your back left toe under and align your front foot under your back knee. Tuck your tailbone under. 

  3. Put the resistance band around your wrists, open your wrists apart, and press up and overhead. Continue for eight reps, then switch sides.


Horizontal Row with Resistance Band

 
Roxie Jones practicing a horizontal row with a resistance band
 
  1. Come to a seat with your legs straight out in front of you. 

  2. Hook the resistance band around your left foot, grab the band with your right hand, and pull the band in toward your right side, directing your elbow toward the midline of your body to engage your lats. 

  3. Sit up tall and try not to bring your elbows out wide — focus on squeezing the muscle underneath your shoulder blade. Complete 10 rows and switch sides.


Push-Ups with Resistance Band

 
Roxie Jones doing push-ups with a resistance band
 
  1. Take your resistance band and put it above your elbows where your biceps begin. 

  2. Come to a high Plank position. Lower down into your Push-Up, creating an A- or Y-shape with your elbows. 

  3. Gaze forward and emphasize your exhale on the way up. Complete 10 reps.


Looking for a longer workout? Check out the full-length Dumbbell Circuit Work class from Roxie Jones that includes weighted exercises after this band warm-up. Sweat it out for free with a 14-day trial to Alo Moves.