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Silicone or Latex? What Resistance Band Should You Add to Your Workout This Summer

What Resistance Band Should You Add to Your Workout This Summer?

With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reset your routine and refocus your goals. Whether you’re training at home, on the...

With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reset your routine and refocus your goals. Whether you’re training at home, on the move, or heading outside, the right resistance band can completely transform how you move.

At Amp, we’ve designed different options to suit your needs, and choosing the right one can sometimes be difficult. So to make it easier for you, we’re going to discuss the difference between our silicone latex or fabric resistance bands. That way you can decide which is best for you and suited to your summer work out. 

Why Silicone?

Why Silicone

Silicone resistance bands are a premium option, designed to deliver smooth, skin-friendly, no-fuss performance.

Hypoallergenic & Latex-Free: Safe for sensitive skin and allergy-prone users.

Non-Slip Grip: Stays in place during every move, especially glutes and legs.

Ultra Durable: More resistant to UV, moisture, heat, and wear. Great for outdoor or high-intensity workouts.

Smooth Texture: Soft, flexible feel without the stickiness of latex.

Odour Resistant: Won’t trap sweat or develop that gym bag smell.

Best for: outdoor training, high-sweat sessions, users with allergies, or anyone who wants a seamless, fuss-free feel.

Why Fabric?

Why fabric? Resistance band

Fabric resistance bands are known for their comfort, durability, and style—making them a popular choice for lower-body workouts and home fitness.

Comfortable on Skin: Wider and softer than latex or silicone, they won’t dig in or pinch during glute bridges or squats.

Stay Put: The fabric texture grips your clothing, reducing rolling or sliding, especially during dynamic movements.

Durable and Strong: Great for heavy resistance workouts like hip thrusts, lunges, and banded squats.

Stylish and Washable: Often available in cute colours or prints, and easy to throw in the wash if they get sweaty.

Best for: glute/leg days, static holds, and anyone who prefers a plush feel and heavier tension.

Why Latex?

Why Latex?

 

Latex resistance bands are lightweight, stretchy, and widely used - for good reason.

High Elasticity: Delivers a broad resistance range, ideal for flexibility, mobility, and rehab work.

Lightweight & Portable: Super compact and easy to stash in your bag or suitcase.

Affordable: Typically more budget-friendly—great if you’re just getting started.

Widely Available: Comes in lots of styles: flat bands, tubes, loops, and more.

Best for: rehab, gentle stretching, budget-conscious beginners, or those who want maximum stretch in a small package.

Why Add Resistance Bands to Your Summer Workouts?

Why Add Resistance Bands to Your Summer Workouts?

No matter which material you choose, resistance bands are a smart way to level up your movement, without heavy equipment or a gym.

Compact and portable: Perfect for holidays, home workouts, or park sessions.

Boost strength and control: Add intensity to glutes, arms, core, and legs.

Versatile: Use them in yoga, Pilates, mobility work, or strength training.

Progressive: Choose different levels of resistance to match your energy and fitness level.

Whether you’re travelling, training outdoors, or squeezing in quick sessions at home, resistance bands help you stay consistent, without compromise.

So… Which Should You Choose?

So, which should you choose?

If you want a smooth, skin-friendly, non-slip band that can handle heat, sweat, and serious sessions: go silicone.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, super-stretchy, and affordable option for stretching or rehab: latex might be for you.

If you prefer a soft, supportive band that stays put during glute bridges and leg day workouts and love a plush feel: fabric could be your match.

All three have their strengths. The best choice depends on your movement style, skin sensitivity, and how you like to train.

Ready to Feel the Burn (In a Good Way)?

Ready to feel the burn?

Wherever this summer takes you, Amp’s resistance bands are designed to move with you.

Choose your match, silicone, fabric or latex, and make resistance your secret weapon.

Strength is in the stretch.

Shop now.

 

Benefits of Yoga and Pilates for Men

Benefits of Yoga and Pilates for Men

  For years, yoga and Pilates have been seen as female-dominated practices. But that’s starting to change. More men are stepping onto the mat and...
Men stepping onto the mat

 

For years, yoga and Pilates have been seen as female-dominated practices. But that’s starting to change. More men are stepping onto the mat and discovering the surprising benefits these disciplines offer.

The truth is, yoga and Pilates aren’t just about flexibility or quiet reflection (though those are great too). They help to build real, functional strength, help prevent injury, reduce stress, and support better posture and mobility. No matter your gender or experience level, the benefits are undeniable.

So why the hesitation? For many men, outdated stereotypes still linger. There’s a common belief that these practices are for women, or that you need to be bendy to even begin. But none of that holds up. In reality, these are practices for everybody and promote mindfulness, awareness, and the ability to process how you feel internally.

The numbers still show a gender gap (in the UK, around 87% of yoga practitioners are women), but that’s beginning to shift. More men are realising that intentional movement can improve performance in other areas of life, including sports, sleep, or mental health.

If you’ve been curious, consider this your nudge. Whether you’re looking to ease tight muscles, manage stress, or try something new… Step onto the mat. From calm to challenge, yoga and Pilates offer something powerful.

The Benefits of Yoga and Pilates for Men

 

Benefits of yoga and pilates for men

 

Yoga and Pilates offer a wealth of benefits that make them ideal additions to any man’s fitness and wellbeing routine:

1. Builds Strength and Muscle Control

Yoga and Pilates are both brilliant for building strength. Yoga uses your bodyweight to challenge major muscle groups with poses like Warrior, Chair, and Chaturanga (a kind of slow-motion push-up). Pilates, on the other hand, focuses on controlled, low-impact movements that target your deep core muscles, benefitting posture, stability, and injury prevention. It’s sneaky-strong work that leaves you feeling powerful, not punished. 

2. Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion

 

Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion

 

Tight hamstrings, stiff hips, and aching shoulders are common issues for a lot of men, especially if you’re into weightlifting, cycling, or spend hours at a desk. Yoga and Pilates are both great for undoing that tension. They help loosen up those sticky spots, improve your range of motion, and keep your joints happy. Over time, you’ll move more freely and with way less risk of pulling something when you least expect it.

3. Reduces Stress and Boosts Mental Focus

Yoga and Pilates are both excellent ways to hit pause and recalibrate. They combine movement with breathwork to regulate your nervous system, lower cortisol levels, and help you feel more grounded. Whether you’re dealing with a busy mind, work stress, or just need some headspace, these practices can help you focus better and stay calm under pressure.

4. Improves Sexual Health

Yes, you read that right. Yoga and Pilates can boost your sex life. These practices improve circulation, balance hormones, and reduce stress, all of which support sexual wellbeing. They also enhance body awareness and help build pelvic floor strength, which plays a key role in performance and stamina.

5. Enhances Athletic Performance

 

Boosts athletic performance

 

Many top athletes incorporate yoga and Pilates into their routines. These practices improve balance, coordination, flexibility, and focus, which are all essential for athletic performance. They also help you recover faster and stay injury-free, which means more time doing what you love. From LeBron James to Tom Brady, plenty of elite athletes credit yoga and Pilates with keeping them at the top of their game.

6. Helps with Injury Recovery and Prevention

Pilates is often used in rehab settings, and both practices are low-impact ways to strengthen without overloading the joints. They improve muscular balance, which is key for preventing common injuries in men, especially those related to sports or weightlifting.

7. Improves Sleep

 

 

Yoga and Pilates help calm the nervous system, lower stress levels, and reduce muscle tension, all of which set you up for deeper, more restful sleep. Even just 10–20 minutes of gentle movement in the evening can help you wind down, clear your mind, and signal to your body that it’s time to rest. Think of it as a physical and mental switch-off, without the screen time.

What Should Men Wear?

 

What should men wear?

 

This is easily one of the most common questions men have when trying yoga or Pilates for the first time and good news - it’s a simple fix:

Fitted, breathable clothing: Think a T-shirt or tank and shorts or leggings that move with you. You want to avoid anything too baggy that might get in the way or ride up mid-pose.

Supportive underwear: Trust us, it matters. Comfort equals confidence.

Barefoot for yoga, grip socks for Pilates: No shoes needed. You’ll want to feel grounded and stable, especially during balance work.

Basically, wear what you’d wear to the gym just make sure it stretches and stays put.

Whether you’re looking to build strength, boost focus, or just feel better in your body, yoga and Pilates offer something powerful. It’s not about being the most flexible in the room, it’s about showing up for yourself, moving with intention, and creating space to feel good. 

Words from Jen McGregor, Yoga and Breathwork Instructor

 

Jen McGregor, yoga and breathwork instructor

 

"As a yoga instructor, it’s incredibly inspiring to witness the transformation that happens when men fully embrace yoga. In a space traditionally seen as female dominated, our men’s only class (Broga) breaks the mould a little. 

"Watching these guys gain flexibility, build strength, and cultivate mindfulness is powerful, but what’s even more rewarding is seeing how our practice brings release and FUN!

Yoga helps reduce stress, improve posture, prevent injuries, and boost mental health, benefits that are especially crucial in today’s whirlwind world. This goodness and these benefits should be and are available to us all, no matter what gender.

This men’s class isn’t just about stretching; it’s about showing up, letting go of ego, and building a community. Flowing with these fabulous guys each week fills my heart beyond measure."

The images from this blog are from Jen McGregor's broga and mixed yoga sessions.

Ready to start? 

Our men’s mats and Pilates equipment is designed to support every stretch, every breath, and every goal. Shop now and get him excited to move, because wellbeing starts here.

5 Popular Fitness Trends in 2025

5 Popular Fitness Trends in 2025

Written by Mia Barnes Fitness trends in 2025 are about making mindful choices that benefit your health and the planet. From sustainable workout gear to...

Written by Mia Barnes

Fitness trends in 2025 are about making mindful choices that benefit your health and the planet. From sustainable workout gear to eco-conscious fitness, it’s easier than ever to prioritise wellness while being kind to the environment. Here are some trends you’ll want to try this year! 

1. Sustainable Workout Gear 

In 2025, sustainable workout gear is a movement. Gone are the days of fast fashion dominating the fitness world. Now, you can work out in style while supporting brands prioritising the planet. Look for clothing made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, or fitness equipment made from plant-based materials like bamboo, cork and natural rubber - such as our yoga mats.

When shopping for new activewear, choose pieces made with eco-friendly materials or brands that use sustainable manufacturing practices. Your workout gear can be both functional and environmentally conscious. 

2. Outdoor Workouts

Take your workout outside and connect with nature. Outdoor fitness is gaining popularity as people seek fresh air, beautiful scenery and the benefits of a natural environment. Whether you opt for a morning jog through the park, an outdoor yoga session, or a weekend hike, exercising outdoors helps clear your mind and boost your mood. 

Fresh air improves lung capacity, the sun boosts vitamin D levels and being surrounded by nature reduces stress. Plus, outdoor workouts often require little to no equipment, making them an eco-friendly solution. 

Find a local park or nature trail and swap your usual indoor workout for a change of scenery. Outdoor workouts will also help you build the strength you need for daily activities. You’ll feel refreshed and energized, all while embracing the great outdoors. 

3. Eco-Friendly Wellness Products 

Sustainable wellness products are all the rage in 2025, and for good reason! These products, from bamboo yoga mats to reusable water bottles, help reduce waste while enhancing your fitness routine. By choosing eco-conscious gear, you improve your workouts and positively impact the environment. 

These products are durable, made from renewable resources and often free from harmful chemicals. Plus, they help reduce overall plastic use, making your fitness journey even more eco-friendly. 

Consider swapping out single-use plastic items for reusable alternatives, like a stainless steel water bottle or a sustainable yoga mat made from natural rubber or cork. 

4. Plant-Based Fitness Nutrition 

In 2025, plant-based nutrition is becoming a key part of many fitness routines. Plant-based diets provide the energy and nutrients your body needs to fuel workouts and recover faster, all while supporting a sustainable lifestyle. More athletes are turning to plant-based foods for their high nutrient density and eco-friendly impact on the planet.

Plant-based foods are rich in fiber, antioxidants and essential vitamins that improve digestion and promote muscle recovery. They also have a lower carbon footprint compared to animal-based products, making them a win for both your health and the environment. 

Incorporate plant-based proteins like lentils, quinoa, chickpeas and tofu into your meals to fuel your workouts. Try swapping dairy or meat for plant-based alternatives to reduce environmental impact while boosting performance. 

5. Mindfulness and Recovery

Fitness trends in 2025 are about taking the time to rest and recover mindfully as much as it is about pushing your body to its limits. Remember, rest is essential for muscle recovery. Mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation and breathwork are becoming key components of fitness routines. These practices help reduce stress, improve flexibility and enhance mental clarity, making them perfect for recovery after a tough workout. 

Mindfulness helps lower cortisol levels, promotes better sleep and can even reduce the risk of injury by helping you tune into your body’s needs. Plus, it enhances overall well-being, supporting both mental and physical health. 

After your workout, take a few minutes to meditate, do some light stretching, or practice deep breathing. These simple practices can help you relax, recover and stay balanced in and out of the gym. Find out more in our meditation blog here, and download your 7 minute body scan to get started.

Transform Your Fitness Routine This Year

As you embrace these eco-friendly fitness trends in 2025, remember that every small change counts. Whether swapping out your workout gear for sustainable options, taking your fitness outdoors, or fueling your body with plant-based foods, you positively impact your health and the planet. Start today — get fit, stay green and create a balanced, mindful approach to your fitness routine that supports you and the world around you.

 

Why Children Need Calm Spaces

Why Children Need Calm Spaces

In a world full of noise and stimulation, children, just like adults, need moments of calm. But unlike adults, they’re still learning how to find...

In a world full of noise and stimulation, children, just like adults, need moments of calm. But unlike adults, they’re still learning how to find those moments for themselves. That’s where a calm space comes in.

By creating a calm space at home, children are able to process their day, regulate their emotions, and reconnect with themselves.

Why Calm Spaces Matter

 

Why Calm Spaces Matter

 

Naturally children are curious and full of energy, often feeling overstimulated and overwhelmed. Therefore, calm spaces can act as a powerful tool to help with:

Emotional regulation: A quiet corner can help little ones process big feelings. Over time, this builds self-awareness, confidence, and the ability to pause when things get overwhelming.

Independent play: Calm spaces inspire more mindful movement and imaginative play. With fewer distractions, creativity has room to flourish.

A sense of safety: Having a familiar, comforting spot helps children feel secure. It teaches them that rest and regulation are not a reward, they’re a right.

Bonding: Sharing time in a calm space creates gentle, meaningful moments of connection. These quiet rituals help deepen trust, strengthen emotional bonds, and offer both parent and child a chance to simply be together.

How to Set Up a Calm Corner

 

How to Set Up a Calm Corner

 

No need to completely renovate your home, just find a space to add intention. Think soft, quiet, and accessible:

  • A comfortable mat like the Amp Children’s Mat, designed for grounding movement and stillness.
  • A few sensory-friendly props, think plush toys, calming books, or a gentle night light.
  • A regular time to use the space, after school, before bed, or whenever they need a moment to reset.

Our Children’s Mat is made to support these moments. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and gentle under growing feet and hands. Stylish enough to live in your living room, but soft enough for storytime, stretching, or a midday lie-down.

Real Growth Happens in the Still Moments

 

Real Growth Happens in the Still Moments

Helping your child find calm isn’t about doing more, it’s about creating space for less. Less pressure. Less noise. Less go-go-go. And in that space, something powerful happens: their nervous systems settle, their creativity reawakens, and they feel more like themselves.

A mat may seem like a simple tool but in the right hands (and little feet), it becomes a foundation for confidence, clarity, and calm.

Create a space that supports their wellbeing, one breath, one stretch, one quiet moment at a time.

Final Thoughts

 

Final thoughts


Creating a calm corner with a children’s mat is a simple yet powerful way to support your child’s emotional wellbeing, imagination, and sense of safety. Whether it’s helping them navigate big feelings or encouraging moments of mindful play, this gentle ritual can make a lasting impact on their growth and confidence.

Ready to set up a space they’ll love?

Shop our Children’s Mat and give your child the soft, supportive foundation they need to feel safe, seen, and centred.

Home fitness gym beginners workout

Move With Confidence: A 10-Minute Full-Body Home Workout With Lisa Marley

When time is tight but your body’s craving movement, this energising 10-minute full-body workout at home is your go-to solution. Created in collaboration with food...

When time is tight but your body’s craving movement, this energising 10-minute full-body workout at home is your go-to solution. Created in collaboration with food & fitness expert and personal trainer Lisa Marley, a partner at Study Active, this session is perfect as an easy workout routine for beginners looking to build strength, balance, and consistency—from the comfort of home.

Whether you're just starting out or getting back into a routine, this is your moment to pause, prioritise yourself, and move your body with purpose. Using our beautifully designed, functional Amp Wellbeing equipment, this routine helps increase intensity at your pace. Start with body weight and add resistance as you grow stronger. It’s all about building confidence through progress.

Why It Works

This is a low-impact, high-benefit workout designed to fit into real life. In just 10 minutes, you’ll work all the major muscle groups, activate your core, and boost your energy. It’s also a fantastic foundation to build consistency and reconnect with your body through mindful, intentional movement. When you are ready, you can add in our functional and beautiful fitness equipment to add extra resistance.

 

Warm-Up (1–2 Minutes)

Get your body ready to move and prevent injury by easing into the session:

  • Arm Circles – Loosen tight shoulders
  • Arm Swing & Pull – Open up the chest
  • Leg Swings – Improve hip mobility and flexibility

 

The Workout: Full-Body Strength and Stability (8 Minutes)

Each of these beginner-friendly moves can be performed with or without weights. As you build strength and confidence, incorporate your favourite Amp dumbbells, ankle wrist weights or Weighted Pilates balls to elevate the challenge.

Start by performing each exercise for 10–12 reps (or 30 seconds per side for unilateral movements like lunges). Do 1 round for a 10-minute workout. As your confidence and strength grow, increase to 2–3 rounds, We recommend using the 2.5kg/5kg pair Amp dumbbells or 3kg pair weighted Pilates balls to increase intensity.

If you're just getting started, begin with body weight only and focus on form and breath control. Once the movements feel comfortable and stable, introduce 1–2kg weights, increasing as your strength improves.

 

home workout beginner 10 minute

1. Suitcase Squats

Targets: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, core

Holding 2.5kg weighted bars, stand with feet shoulder-width apart, arms at your sides.

  • Lower your hips back and down like you’re sitting in a chair.
  • Keep your chest lifted and knees aligned over toes.
  • Press through your heels to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Keep hands on your hips for balance.

Progression: Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides (like carrying a suitcase).

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

2. Knee Lifts

Targets: Core, hip flexors, balance

Stand tall, engage your core, and hold your dumbbells steady in your hands.

  • Lift one knee to hip height, hold for a moment, then lower.
  • Switch sides and repeat, moving with control.

Beginner Tip: Place hands on your hips or out to the sides for stability

Progression: Hold a light weight in each hand or add wrist/ankle weights.

Start with: 10 reps per side.

 

3. Deadlifts

Targets: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back

Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, hold your 2.5kg dumbbells in each hand.

  • Hinge at the hips (not waist), keeping your back flat.
  • Lower the weights (or hands) to mid-shin, slight bend in knees.
  • Squeeze glutes to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Practice first with no weights to master the hip hinge.

Progression: Add Amp dumbbells and increase load gradually.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

home gym beginner

4. Side Lunges

Targets: Inner and outer thighs, glutes, hips

Step your right foot out to the side, holding your dumbells in your hands.

  • Bend your right knee and push hips back, keeping left leg straight.
  • Return to start and repeat on the other side.

Beginner Tip: Step shorter to start and build deeper range over time.

Progression: Hold a dumbbell at your chest or one in each hand, increase the weight as you progress.

Start with: 8–10 reps per side.

 

home gym fitness

 

5. Reverse Lunges

Targets: Glutes, quads, hamstrings, core

Step one foot back and lower your back knee toward the floor, holding the weights in your hands.

  • Keep your front knee stacked over your ankle.
  • Push through the front heel to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Hold onto a chair or wall for balance if needed.

Progression: Add dumbbells at your sides or a single weight at your chest.

Start with: 8 reps per side.

 

6. Forward Lunges

Targets: Quads, glutes, calves, balance.

Holding your weights in your hands, step forward with one foot and lower into a lunge.

  • Keep your chest upright and both knees at 90 degrees.
  • Push off the front foot to return to start.

Beginner Tip: Keep movements small and controlled.

Progression: Add Amp dumbbells to increase resistance.

Start with: 8 reps per side.

home gym beginner

 

7. Bent-Over Row

Targets: Upper back, shoulders, arms

Hinge at the hips with a flat back, knees slightly bent.

  • Hold weights or Weighted Pilates balls, palms facing in.
  • Pull the weights toward your ribs, elbows close to your body.
  • Squeeze shoulder blades, then lower slowly.

Beginner Tip: Start with light weights and perfect your posture.

Progression: Increase dumbbell weight or time under tension.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

woman completing bent over row exercise with dumbbell

8. Skull Crusher

Targets: Triceps, shoulders

Lie down (on a mat or bench) with weights extended above your head.

  • Keep elbows in as you lower the weights toward your forehead.
  • Pause, then press the weights back up.

Beginner Tip: Use 1–2kg dumbbells or Pilates balls to begin.

Progression: Increase reps or weight slowly.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

Skull crusher exercise

9. Chest Press

Targets: Chest, shoulders, triceps

Lie on your back, feet flat on the floow and hold your weights at chest level.

·       Press your arms straight up.

  • Lower slowly and repeat.

Beginner Tip: Focus on steady control through the full range.

Progression: Increase weight or try with resistance bands.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

chest press

 


10. Pec Fly

Targets: Chest, shoulders

Lie down holding your weights directly above your chest.

  • With a slight bend in your elbows, open arms wide
  • Bring weights back together at the top

Beginner Tip: Start with low weight to avoid shoulder strain.

Progression: Add more weight or pause at the bottom of the movement.

Start with: 8–10 reps.

 

chest fly exercise

11. Dumbbell Crunches

Targets: Core, upper abs

Lie on your back with knees bent, hold a weight at your chest.

  • Engage your core and lift your shoulders off the mat.
  • Lower slowly and repeat.

Beginner Tip: No weight needed to start—just focus on form.

Progression: Add weight once movement feels solid.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

home gym and studio-weights

12. Side Plank (Left & Right)

Targets: Core, obliques, shoulders

Lie on your side, elbow under shoulder and stack your feet and lift hips, keeping your body in a straight line.

  • Hold for time, then switch sides

Beginner Tip: Drop your bottom knee to the floor for extra support.

Progression: Extend the hold (start at 15–20 seconds, build to 30+).

Start with: 15–30 seconds per side.

Cool Down (1–2 Minutes)

  • Hamstring Stretch – Reach forward and lengthen the back of your legs
  • Deep Breathing – Relax, reset, and return to your day feeling strong

 Want to follow along with Lisa? Watch the full workout on YouTube here.

 

home gym and studio weights dumbbells

Meet Your Trainer: Lisa Marley

https://lisamarleylifestyle.com/

Lisa Marley is a certified personal trainer, health & wellness coach, and trained chef passionate about plant-based living and holistic wellbeing. She specialises in behavioural change coaching—helping clients set realistic goals, overcome obstacles, and develop strategies for lasting success.

Her 30-minute personal training sessions, offered online and in-person, are designed to maximise efficiency while fostering consistency. Lisa combines movement with mindful nutrition to help you feel energised, strong, and empowered—body and mind.

“My ultimate aim is to optimise your body’s efficiency, reduce inflammation, enhance muscle responsiveness, and boost your performance—so you can thrive today and into the future.” – Lisa Marley

  Why This Workout Belongs in Your Routine

  • Quick, convenient, and accessible—perfect for busy days.
  • Builds strength, balance, and coordination.
  • Beginner-friendly, with room to grow using Amp resistance tools.
  • Ideal for starting (or restarting) your fitness journey.

This is fitness designed for real life—with equipment that inspires you to move every day. Wherever you are in your wellness journey, Amp is here to support you with tools that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Ready to get moving? Explore our full range of premium fitness equipment to bring the gym home—stylish tools to elevate your workouts, at home or in the studio.

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