While resonant propagation modes are non-existent within band gaps in infinite periodic structures, it is possible for anomalous band-gap resonances to appear in finite periodic structures. We establish two criteria for the characterization of band-gap resonances and propose approaches for their elimination. By considering flexural periodic beams, we show that as the number of unit-cells is increased the vibration response corresponding to band-gap resonances (1) does not shift in frequency, and (2) drops in amplitude. Both these outcomes are not exhibited by regular pass-band resonances, nor by resonances in finite homogenous beams when the length is changed. Our conclusions stem from predictions based on Timoshenko beam theory coupled with matching experimental observations.