Q&A for How to Use a Theraband

If you want a good lower body exercise, tie the theraband around your ankles to perform side steps.

Theraband has provided a list of colors for its bands based on their strength. Red color: 6 pounds. Yellow color: 10 pounds. Green color: 15 pounds. Blue color: 25 pounds.

I don't know about a DVD to purchase, but there are videos on YouTube you can watch -- and they're free!

If you're working out with weights consistently, you wouldn't need to supplement that with this unless you want to integrate it into your workouts. Remember, your muscles need rest. This is why we do "splits" in our routines.

Only about 3-4 times a week. Don't overdo it - your muscles need a break!

It would depend upon the nature of your hip operation. If you have had hip-replacement surgery, you should have been referred to a Physical Therapist for rehabilitation. I had my hip replaced 20 years ago and I still use free weights and Therabands to maintain core strength and tone. The important part of stability with the joint requires you to always follow range-of-motion rules. Emphasis should be on light resistance with moderately high repetitions (12-20). I do 3 sets of each exercise with proper warmup and stretching prior to starting. Maximum sessions of 3 times per week and do not repeat the same exercises session after session. Having a personal trainer is highly recommended.

Some of the best exercises include: Step-ups, knee squats, leg stretches, leg crosses, and sit and stands. These are good for knee pain from arthritis.

Yes, but make sure you talk to your doctor or physical therapist before using a Theraband for injuries. They can give you advice on which colour you need at this stage in your injury and if it is safe to do so.

Therabands are cut to be five feet long, which should suit most people's needs, unless you are particularly large.

A Theraband is precut to be 5 feet which is usually long enough for most people unless you have an especially large body and limbs.