Build a stronger lower body and improve your balance with this trainer's five-move resistance band workout

A woman performs a resistance band workout in a park, wearing leggings, sneakers and a vest. She is standing on her left leg with the band looped around her thighs, keeping her right leg straight and pushing it out to the side. Her hands are on her hips and she wears a ponytail and fitness tracker.

Resistance bands are a great tool for working on your strength, balance and stability. The tension they create challenges your muscles through a wide range of motion, which can help you build comprehensive strength.

They’re portable, cheap and easy to store. Plus, it’s thought that the strength gains from using a band are similar to training with dumbbells or resistance machines, according to a study published in Journal List.