We know, it feels like there’s always another must-have piece of gym kit to own and master, from TRX to ankle weights. But that doesn’t make them fads.

In fact, the humble resistance band is a cost-effective and easy way for people of just about any fitness level to isolate, tone and strengthen muscles. They are incredibly effective tools for strength training and are often used in physical therapy to aid injury recovery.

They can lend resistance to simple strength training exercises, help you improve flexibility, and add to the benefits of stretching by releasing muscular tension. Basically, resistance bands are the whole package.

Strength training: 6 most effective resistance band exercises according to fitness trainers