I then calculated the word that would be done in lifting a dumbbell of 5 kg straight upwards.
Calculating Work Done for Dumbbell
W = Fnet*d
W = mgd
W = (5kg)(9.8N/kg)(.6885m)
W = 33.737 Nm
Conclusion
The work done in lifting a dumbbell of mass 5kg straight upwards was found to be greater than the work done in stretching a resistance bands straight upwards from equilibrium. However, the work done by the resistance bands could be greater if the bands were stretched from an initial displacement and not just from equilibrium. This would create a greater force and thus more work would be done.
It would be interesting to see how the varying force of a resistance band affects tears in muscle fibers and how the muscle fibers grow in response.
Works Cited
Maximum Fitness Gear 3pc Resistance Bands. N.d. Photograph. Maximum Fitness Gear. 15 Sept. 2011. Web. 17 Dec. 2013. <http://maximumfitnessgear.com/pics/Image/MF%20Bands%203.jpg>.
Van Such, Larry. "When It Comes To Using Resistance Bands, It's Best To Use Them With An Isometric Training Strategy. Part 3 of 4." Resistance Band Training With Isometrics. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Dec. 2013.