RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle Review

When it comes to resistance bands, there are virtually endless options to choose from, each promising superior results. From elastic straps and rubber tubes to lateral and pull-up bands, the choices are abundant. Hip circles are specialized resistance bands designed to activate the hips, glutes, and quadriceps during strength training exercises. 

The RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle is a popular version of the hip circle, but does it live up to the hype? To find out, I tested it myself, evaluating its design, material, performance, and versatility. Read on for my insights.

The RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle is an extremely sturdy and high-quality product. It’s an extra-tight band that has a high level of resistance with a non-slip design.

Size options for the Resistance Hip Band Circle include medium, large, and extra-large, which causes some confusion. It’s a little unclear if the extra-large band is the largest (meaning the most material), thus having the least resistance or if it has the highest level of resistance. The manufacturer’s site doesn’t specify the implication for each size. 

Upon receiving the notably tight extra-large hip circle in the mail, it seemed like it was most likely the option with the most resistance. However, other users have indicated that the medium is the smallest with the highest level of resistance, and the extra-large is, in fact, the easiest option. The tightness of the extra-large makes it a pretty advanced exercise tool. While the manufacturer says the band is ideal for all fitness levels, it doesn’t seem suitable for beginners.

The elastic and polyester material is exceptionally thick and resilient. According to the manufacturer, it’s also resistant to snapping, stretching, and sweat. This claim seems to be valid, as the material doesn’t slip or lose its shape during a sweaty fitness routine. Also, it’s supposed to hold up under long-term repeated stretching. After trying it out a few times, it really does seem like it will hold up for a long time—possibly even for years.

On the other hand, I noticed that the hip circle has a somewhat unpleasant rubbery odor. However, the smell is faint and will probably fade with continued use. Color options include black and black with pink, which each come in the same three sizes. 

The hip band can be washed by hand with soap and lukewarm water and then air-dried. After I washed and dried it, I felt that it maintained its original shape and strong elasticity.

While its intended focus is for the hips and glutes, this resistance band can also be used for toning and building muscle in the legs, back, arms, and shoulders. The tight loop makes it somewhat difficult to use for upper body exercises, but it’s great for the lower body.

The RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle is compact. It can be rolled up or folded to fit into a gym bag, purse, or suitcase. This is a product that can be used at home, while traveling, or in the middle of a workday. The portable aspect adds to its versatility.

The Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle is intended to ignite the hips, glutes, and quad muscles—and it definitely delivers. It’s great for building lower-body muscle by adding resistance to squats, leg lifts, hip raises, or deadlifts. For those who don’t want to hold dumbells or use added weights to build muscle, the hip circle from RIMSports is an excellent option. One of the best and simplest workouts is to place it on the hips and take short steps back and forth, then side to side.

The band was too tight for me to use for lunges, but more advanced athletes may be able to do this move. After just a few reps, my muscles started to fatigue—it’s perfect for getting in a quick yet hard sweat session. In the days following workouts with the RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle, my glutes, hips, and quadriceps were pretty sore, but not to the point of being debilitated.

Ultimately, I found that this band encourages proper form with various exercises. For example, knees have to be parallel and wide enough to keep it in place during a squat.

In addition to muscle building and toning, it’s supposed to be suitable for physical therapy. However, it’s unclear whether this is referring to stretching or rehabilitation exercises to help recover from sports injuries. Specific stretches or rehab exercises aren’t outlined by the manufacturer.

The RIMSports Premium Resistance Hip Band Circle ranges from approximately $20 to $40, depending on size and color. Although the designs appear to be identical, the black option is more expensive than the black and pink band. The band is more expensive than many competitor products.

Sling Shot Mark Bell’s Hip Circle: For around $35, the Mark Bell’s Hip Circle from Sling Shot offers a stretchy rubber variation that’s resistant to snapping and rolling. It comes in three different resistance levels and promises an injury-free workout. If you don’t mind the texture of rubber, we think this is a solid, similarly-priced option.

Tribe Lifting Resistance Hip Bands: Priced at roughly $20, The Tribe Lifting Resistance Hip Bands come in multi-packs of two, three, or five hip circles in varying sizes. They can be used for a variety of lower body workouts as well as stretching and physical therapy exercises. If you’re on a budget, we vote that these bands are a great value.

ProFitness Hip Resistance Bands: Another more affordable option, these non-slip Hip Resistance Bands from ProFitness are priced at about $15 for a set of two. They’re designed to increase stamina and endurance with full-body workouts but can also be used for stretching.

Need some help finding what you’re looking for? Check out our list of the best resistance bands.