And 10 Ways to Use Them Safely
Resistance bands are basically the holy grail of RV fitness: tiny, light, cheap, and wildly effective.
If you can stash a spoon, you can stash a band.
They’re especially great for RVers with arthritis, joint pain, balance concerns, or limited mobility because they provide smooth resistance without pounding your joints.
Let’s talk about which ones you need—and exactly how to use them safely and comfortably.
The Two Types of Bands You Want
You don’t need a massive kit cluttering up your RV. Two simple types will cover almost everything.
1. Loop Bands (Mini Bands)
Best for:
- Legs
- Hips
- Glutes
- Stability and balance work
Why RVers love them:
They’re small, lightweight, and perfect for seated or standing exercises.
Arthritis-friendly tip:
Fabric loop bands tend to be more comfortable and less likely to pinch or roll.
2. Long Bands (With Handles or Straight Bands)
Best for:
- Upper body strength
- Posture
- Core support
Why RVers love them:
You can anchor them in a door, under your feet, or around a sturdy chair leg.
Limited mobility tip:
Handled bands are easier to grip if you have hand or finger arthritis.
That’s it. No giant kit required.
How to Choose Good Resistance Bands
Not all bands are created equal. Look for bands that:
- Are non-slip
- Don’t roll up like a fruit roll-up
- Come in multiple resistance levels
- Are durable (not thin plastic)
- Have high reviews from people 50+
💡 Pro tip: Start lighter than you think. You should feel challenged—but never strained or shaky.
Resistance bands are one of the best fitness tools for RVers—especially if you want to stay strong without stressing your joints. These exercises are designed for real life on the road, with options for arthritis, balance concerns, and limited mobility.
Always consult with your physician before beginning any exercise routine or workout program, especially if you have any medical conditions, injuries, or concerns.
Upper Body Exercises
- Band Rows
What it helps: Upper back, posture, shoulder stability
How to do it:
- Sit or stand tall
- Loop the band around a door handle or sturdy object
- Hold handles or ends
- Pull elbows back, squeezing shoulder blades together
- Slowly return
Limited mobility option:
Stay seated in a chair
Arthritis-friendly option:
Use a lighter band and shorten the range of motion
- Chest Press
What it helps: Chest, shoulders, pushing strength (getting up from chairs)
How to do it:
- Anchor band behind you (door or chair)
- Push hands forward until arms extend
- Slowly return
Limited mobility option:
Do one arm at a time while seated
Arthritis-friendly option:
Stop before elbows fully straighten
- Bicep Curls
What it helps: Lifting groceries, pets, or gear
How to do it:
- Stand or sit on the band
- Curl hands toward shoulders
- Lower slowly
Limited mobility option:
Seated curls with feet flat
Arthritis-friendly option:
Use handles and lighter resistance
- Tricep Extensions
What it helps: Arm strength for pushing up from chairs
How to do it:
- Hold band overhead or anchor it low behind you
- Extend arm until straight
- Return slowly
Limited mobility option:
Kickback-style extensions with elbow at your side
Arthritis-friendly option:
Avoid locking the elbow
- Overhead Press (If Shoulders Allow)
What it helps: Shoulder strength and daily reaching tasks
How to do it:
- Sit or stand on the band
- Press arms upward
- Lower slowly
Limited mobility option:
Press one arm at a time
Arthritis-friendly option:
Replace with a front raise
Lower Body Exercises
- Side Steps with Loop Band
What it helps: Hip stability, balance, fall prevention
How to do it:
- Place band above knees or ankles
- Step side to side slowly
Limited mobility option:
Hold onto a chair or counter
Arthritis-friendly option:
Very light band and small steps
- Standing Kickbacks
What it helps: Glutes, lower back support
How to do it:
- Loop band around ankles
- Kick one leg straight back
- Alternate sides
Limited mobility option:
Hold chair with both hands
Arthritis-friendly option:
Kick back only a few inches
- Seated Leg Press
What it helps: Thigh strength for standing and walking
How to do it:
- Sit tall in a chair
- Loop band around foot
- Press foot forward
- Return slowly
Limited mobility option:
Perfect as-is
Arthritis-friendly option:
Light band, slow movement
- Hip Abductions (Seated or Standing)
What it helps: Hip strength and balance
How to do it:
- Loop band above knees
- Push knees outward
- Return slowly
Limited mobility option:
Stay seated
Arthritis-friendly option:
Small range of motion
10. Squat + Band Pull-Apart Combo
What it helps: Full-body strength and coordination
How to do it:
- Hold band in hands
- Squat or sit-to-stand
- Pull band apart at chest height
- Stand back up
Limited mobility option:
Chair-assisted sit-to-stand
Arthritis-friendly option:
Do pull-aparts seated only
Skip the squat and do the pull-apart seated.
The Magic of Resistance Bands
Resistance bands:
- Are gentle on joints
- Build real strength
- Improve balance and confidence
- Take up almost no space
They’re especially powerful for RVers who want to stay active without gym intimidation or joint pain.
Think of bands as a full gym in a drawer—one that meets you exactly where you are. Happy RVing!
Download a printable copy of 10 RV Friendly Band Exercises
For other physical activity and fitness support for RV living go to healthyrving.com.
