Shelf Life of Bands

I just stumbled upon one of my old bands from years ago.

I couldn’t find it for the longest time, but sure enough the day I receive my brand new eliteFTS mini band I stumble upon it.

It has a ton of small cracks in it and is pretty faded (just like its smaller cousin the “gum band” does when it is a survivor). No pieces are missing.

My question is…

Is it time to throw it out or can it still be used?

I have been hit with smaller rubber bands when they break, so I can only imagine what this would be like to get hit with, or how off balance you would be if this broke mid bench/squat.

if in doubt, toss it out…

bands are cheap. Injuries not so much, why risk it?

Maybe just use them for stuff like band pullaparts and stuff so IF they break, it’s not a big deal.

[quote]StrengthDawg wrote:
if in doubt, toss it out…

bands are cheap. Injuries not so much, why risk it?

Maybe just use them for stuff like band pullaparts and stuff so IF they break, it’s not a big deal. [/quote]

This was what I figured, however with my luck I can see myself doing a home triceps workout and having a freak band accident haha.

[quote]StrengthDawg wrote:
Maybe just use them for stuff like band pullaparts and stuff so IF they break, it’s not a big deal. [/quote]

That would be my recommendation as well. Use new (< 2 years) bands for squats and pulls, older bands for resisted exercises. I have Elite bands from 5 years ago that are still in great condition despite weekly use but sometimes its best to play it safe.