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Selecting the right commercial treadmill is a critical decision for any gym or health club. The choice affects not only the durability and functionality of your equipment but also the overall experience and safety of your members. Discover what features you should look for in a commercial treadmill that will provide the best value and promote a superior workout environment.

MOTOR POWER

The motor power is one of the most crucial aspects to consider when selecting a commercial treadmill. Measured in horsepower (HP), the motor’s capacity determines the treadmill’s ability to handle continuous use, which is particularly important in high-traffic facilities. A high-quality motor can also reduce wear and tear on the machine, minimizing maintenance costs and downtime.

Look for a treadmill with at least a 3.0 HP continuous-duty motor, as this ensures smooth operation and durability over extended periods. Motors can come in AC or DC varieties, with AC motors typically offering more robust performance suitable for commercial use.

RUNNING SURFACE

The running surface should be wide and long enough to cater to users of different heights and stride lengths. A minimum belt size of 20 inches in width and 60 inches in length is recommended. This provides ample space for comfortable and safe running.

SLAT VS. BELT

There are two primary types of running surfaces on commercial treadmills: slats and belts. Both options deliver a high-quality workout experience, so the better choice depends on specific user preferences and maintenance capabilities.

SLAT

Slat running surfaces, composed of numerous individual slats, offer a unique blend of durability and shock absorption. This design distributes impact more evenly, reducing joint stress and enhancing the treadmill’s longevity.

BELT

On the other hand, belt running surfaces are typically smoother and provide a consistent, even feel underfoot. Belts are more popular due to their simpler mechanism and familiarity. While slat surfaces are beneficial for their superior impact reduction and robustness, belt surfaces are advantageous for their familiar ease of use.

CUSHIONING SYSTEM

A treadmill’s cushioning system absorbs shock and reduces impact, providing a safer and more comfortable running surface. This system is especially beneficial in a commercial setting, where users of varying weights and fitness levels will utilize the equipment.

Effective cushioning systems can minimize stress on joints, decreasing the risk of injury and allowing for longer, more pleasant workouts. Additionally, cushioning can extend the lifespan of the treadmill by reducing wear and tear on its components.

INCLINE AND DECLINE SETTINGS

Incline and decline settings are essential features in commercial treadmills, offering numerous benefits for novice and advanced users.

INCLINE SETTINGS

Adjustable incline settings mimic uphill running, intensifying workouts by increasing cardiovascular demands. Different inclinations also target varying muscle groups, particularly the glutes, hamstrings, and calves.

Inclination variety enhances muscle tone and overall fitness and aids in caloric burn, making weight loss more achievable. A treadmill with an incline capability of at least 15 percent is ideal for a comprehensive workout regimen.

DECLINE SETTINGS

On the other hand, decline settings, which simulate downhill running, are equally beneficial. Declines target lower body muscles differently from inclines, focusing more on the quads and adding variety to training sessions. Decline settings also improve balance and coordination by shifting from the typical flat-surface run.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING BOTH

Alternating between incline and decline during training can mimic outdoor running conditions more effectively, offering a more natural and engaging workout experience. Therefore, investing in a treadmill with both incline and decline abilities will improve workout versatility and cater to a broader range of fitness goals and user preferences.

SAFETY FEATURES

Safety is a critical consideration when selecting a commercial treadmill. Ensure the treadmill has the following essential safety features to protect users and prevent accidents.

EMERGENCY STOP BUTTON

One of the key safety features is the emergency stop button or safety key. It allows users to quickly stop the treadmill if they slip or can’t keep up with the speed.

HANDRAILS

Look for treadmills with side handrails to provide extra stability and support for users during workouts.

LOW DECK HEIGHT

Another important safety feature is a low deck height. A lower step-up height minimizes the risk of trips and falls when getting on or off the treadmill.

NONSLIP BELT

Nonslip belt surfaces also enhance safety by reducing the likelihood of slipping and falling during a run.

HEART RATE MONITORS AND ALERTS

Built-in heart rate monitors and safety alerts help users maintain safe heart rate levels during exercise and alert them to slow down or stop if they exceed their target heart rate zone.

GRADUAL START AND STOP MECHANISM

Finally, consider treadmills with a gradual start and stop mechanism to ensure smooth transitions and reduce the risk of falling from sudden jolts or jerks.

USER-FRIENDLY CONSOLE

A user-friendly console is vital for a seamless and enjoyable workout experience, catering to beginner and advanced users alike. Treadmill consoles range from basic displays that show essential metrics to advanced variations featuring touchscreens, internet connectivity, and interactive workout programs.

The best consoles combine intuitive, easy-to-navigate interfaces with advanced functionalities such as customizable workouts, live streaming of virtual classes, and integration with fitness apps. These features engage users and help them track and achieve their fitness goals more effectively.

DURABILITY AND BUILD QUALITY

Durability and build directly impact the equipment’s lifespan and reliability under continuous use. High-quality treadmills should feature robust frames made of commercial-grade steel or aluminum, ensuring structural integrity and stability. Look for models with a high maximum user weight capacity, typically indicating more robust construction.

Additionally, the deck, belt, and motor components should withstand heavy traffic and provide consistent performance over time. Investing in a treadmill with superior durability and build quality minimizes maintenance costs, reduces downtime, and ensures a safe, reliable workout experience.

MAINTENANCE FEATURES

Easy maintenance is crucial for keeping treadmills in optimal condition. Look for features like self-lubricating belts and easy-to-access components. These features make it easy to service your treadmills and keep them running longer.

Overall, investing in the right treadmill for your gym or health club involves careful consideration. By looking for these features in a commercial treadmill, you ensure a valuable addition to your fitness facility that meets your business needs and members’ expectations.

Source: https://truefitness.com/what-features-should-you-look-for-in-a-commercial-treadmill/

As a reminder, at the end of 2024, Halo Facility will be rebranded as Life Fitness Facility Connect with some exciting new updates! To ensure we focus our future development on the most impactful offerings, some features and equipment support will be discontinued.

 

WHAT’S BEING DISCONTINUED?

Support for the following features will end at the close of 2024:

• Custom Workout
• Health & Safety
• Trip Planner
• Manual Creation of RFID Members (Partner integrations are not impacted)
• Heat Map

Additionally, the following equipment will no longer be supported:

• Discover SE/SI
• Integrity C
• Integrity X
• Cybex 50L
• Explore

 

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Before the end of 2024, ensure the following:

 

Custom Attract Screen Images:

Finalise and publish your custom attract screen images for SE/SI consoles. After Facility Connect launches, changes will no longer be possible. If a factory reset occurs, default Life Fitness images will be displayed and can’t be customised again.

Product & Entertainment Settings:

Ensure all desired Product Settings, Entertainment Apps, TV Names, and Internet Shortcuts are set as desired. These can only be edited within System Options on each piece of equipment after the year’s end.

Have questions?

Our team is always ready to assist you. If help is needed, please reach out to us at customersupport@lifefitness.com or contact your sales account manager directly.

Commercial gyms offer machines and equipment to help people achieve their fitness goals. While cardio machines such as the elliptical and recumbent bikes are standard for beginners, more advanced users require different gym equipment to challenge their bodies and take their fitness journeys to the next level. This guide details eight types of commercial gym machines for advanced users that will provide a challenging and effective workout.

CABLE MACHINE

Cable machines use adjustable pulleys with attached cables and handles to create resistance during exercises. This machine allows for a wider range of motion than traditional weight machines, making it ideal for targeting specific muscles from different angles.

Advanced users can benefit from cable machines’ versatility. They can perform different exercises, such as chest flys, tricep pushdowns, and bicep curls. With the ability to adjust weight and angles, users can constantly challenge their muscles for maximum growth and strength.

LEG PRESS MACHINE

The leg press machine is a staple in most gyms, offering a controlled way to train one of the body’s largest muscle groups. Users will sit with their feet on a weighted platform and push the weight away from them using their legs, targeting the quads, hamstrings, and glutes. They can adjust the weight according to their fitness levels.

Using the leg press machine allows for variations such as the narrow stance, which engages the outer thighs, or the wide stance, which targets the inner thighs.

LAT PULLDOWN MACHINE

The lat pulldown machine focuses on strengthening the latissimus dorsi, biceps, and trapezius, which can help develop a V-shaped back. Using this machine mimics the motion of a pull-up but offers more control and a reduced risk of injury. Many individuals use this strength training machine to build their upper body muscle mass.

STAIR CLIMBER

The stair climber is an excellent cardiovascular health machine. It simulates the action of climbing stairs, providing a low-impact yet effective workout. Gym-goers can adjust the resistance level to further challenge themselves as they become more fit.

Regular use of the stair climber can improve cardiovascular health, muscle endurance, and lower body strength. It targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, making it an excellent option for leg day.

FREE WEIGHTS

Unlike weightlifting machines that guide your movement, free weights require a greater understanding of proper lifting form and technique. Individuals engage multiple muscle groups to maintain balance and stability as they lift dumbbells or weights.

Gym-goers can do exercises such as bicep curls, hammer curls, or tricep extensions while standing using free weights. However, individuals can also use free weights along with other equipment, such as an incline bench press or power rack, to optimize their workout.

INCLINE BENCH PRESS

The incline bench press is ideal for training the upper chest, shoulder, and tricep muscles. Its adjustable incline allows users to modify the angle to emphasize specific chest areas. Users should alter the incline according to their comfort and the muscle groups they want to target.

POWER RACKS

Gym-goers use free weights at the power rack, such as barbells, to perform squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. This versatile equipment is essential for advanced users as it allows for a range of exercises and targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

WEIGHTLIFTING TIP

Having a spotter is essential when using any type of strength training equipment but becomes especially vital when using free weights. Your spotter will ensure you maintain proper form and assist if you cannot complete a rep.

ROWING MACHINE

The rowing machine targets the back, arms, legs, and core. It offers a balanced approach to strengthening multiple muscle groups while enhancing cardiovascular fitness. This piece of gym equipment simulates the motion of rowing a boat as the user pulls a handle toward the body, engaging the legs, back, arms, and core.

Using a rowing machine can benefit cardiovascular health and muscle endurance. It engages your back, arms, legs, and core, making it ideal for complete physical conditioning. Regular use can also improve lung capacity and stamina.

MULTI-PRESS MACHINE

The multi-press machine is another type of commercial gym machine for advanced users. It allows you to perform multiple movements, such as bench presses, shoulder presses, and squats, all in one machine.

This machine is beneficial for overall muscle development. It saves time by offering a variety of exercises, and its guided motion reduces the risk of injury. Users can switch between different exercises quickly, maintaining an efficient workout flow.

TREADMILL

Anyone can work out on a treadmill, but advanced gym users can use its features to target specific muscle groups. Some advanced users may set it to a high incline but low speed for a more challenging workout, while others keep the incline low but increase the speed for sprint intervals.

Fitness enthusiasts can also use a treadmill’s programmed features to create interval workouts, varying the speed and incline to target muscle strengthening. Likewise, individuals may use the treadmill as part of their cross-training routine to improve their overall physical performance.

Running or jogging on a treadmill targets the lower body, including the calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. However, with added inclines or intervals, treadmill workouts can also engage the core and upper body muscles.

HAVE A VARIETY OF EQUIPMENT

Everyone has different fitness goals, and what one user considers advanced, another may find easy. Having numerous types of gym equipment is vital to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of advanced gym-goers.

PREVENTS BOREDOM

Fitness plateaus are common, especially for advanced users. Having a range of equipment at your disposal prevents boredom and keeps workouts challenging. For example, gym-goers can use the stair climber and leg press machine one day, followed by the rowing machine and lat pulldown machine the next. Alternating equipment use keeps workouts engaging and encourages a more balanced physique.

TARGET DIFFERENT MUSCLE GROUPS

As mentioned earlier, different machines target unique muscle groups. Switching between them allows you to effectively train different muscles, leading to balanced development. It also prevents overuse injuries from focusing on the same muscle groups with one specific machine.

 

Source: https://truefitness.com/8-types-of-commercial-gym-machines-for-advanced-users/

Maintaining a clean rubber gym floor is crucial for keeping your gym looking sharp and ensuring a hygienic environment for workouts. At Pavigym, we aim to guide you through the simplest and most effective ways to clean your rubber flooring.

Daily cleaning: To ensure your rubber gym floor stays in top condition, daily cleaning is vital. Begin by removing any loose dirt and debris using a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner suitable for hard floors. This helps prevent dirt build-up which could scratch and wear out the surface over time.

Quick response to spills: Act swiftly to clean any spills with just warm water and a microfibre mop, ensuring you do not let the water sit and dry on the floor. This immediate action helps avoid potential stains and keeps the floor safe.

Deep cleaning: While daily cleaning involves light maintenance, a more thorough clean is beneficial periodically. For this deep clean, simply use your usual washing products mixed with water and apply lightly with a mop. Remember, over time, too much water can damage rubber, so just a damp mop is sufficient. After cleaning with the solution, mop again with plain water to remove any residue.

Ease of cleaning with virgin rubber: Virgin rubber is notably easier to clean compared to recycled rubber, mainly because it has a smoother, more uniform surface without pores or crevices where dirt and grime can embed. This seamless surface means less effort is needed to maintain hygiene and appearance, simplifying your cleaning routine significantly.

‘Smart Clean’ design: Our Pavigym flooring features a unique ‘Smart Clean’ design, making it much easier to clean than other rubber flooring options. This innovative design significantly reduces cleaning time and ensures optimal hygiene. The engraved pattern helps dirt to find its way out easily, unlike other floors where dirt gets trapped. This makes our flooring not only look good but also easier to keep clean and hygienic.

Regular and proper cleaning of your rubber gym floor not only extends its lifespan but also maintains a safe and healthy environment for all users. By following these simple cleaning steps, your flooring will continue to meet the high standards of your fitness facility.

For more advice on how to look after your gym and our products, contact us.

 

Source: https://www.pavigym.com/en/blog/rubber-gym-flooring-2

Get ready to transform your workouts with suspension training – an innovative exercise technique that challenges your body in new ways.

Born in the Navy SEALs, Suspension Training bodyweight exercise develops strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously.

It requires the use of the TRX Suspension Trainer, a highly portable performance training tool that leverages gravity and the user’s body weight to complete 100s of exercises.

Workout Using the Suspension Trainer

The TRX Suspension Trainer is the original, best-in-class workout system that leverages gravity and your bodyweight to perform hundreds of exercises.

You’re in control of how much you want to challenge yourself on each exercise – because you can simply adjust your body position to add or decrease resistance.

The TRX Suspension Trainer:

• Delivers a fast, effective total-body workout
• Helps build a rock-solid core
• Increases muscular endurance
• Benefits people of all fitness levels (pro athletes to seniors)
• Can be set-up anywhere (gym, home, hotel or outside)
• By utilizing your own bodyweight, the TRX Suspension Trainer provides greater performance and functionality than large exercise machines costing thousands of dollars.

Used By Trainers, Athletes and the U.S. Military
Thousands of people at all fitness levels now train on the TRX: From everyday people who just want to feel and look their best to some of the world’s most elite athletes. The TRX is used routinely by all four branches of the military, and can be found in the locker rooms of:

• Major League Baseball teams
• National League Baseball teams
• UFC fighters
• Olympic-level cyclists, swimmers & runners

It can also be paired with other workout tools, including our resistance equipment and strength training equipment.

Try a TRX Suspension Trainer today!

 

TRX Sweat System

 

TRX Pro 4

TRX Tactical

 

Souce: https://www.trxtraining.com/blogs/news/what-is-suspension-training

 

In today’s fast-paced fitness industry, being a successful movement professional requires staying up-to-date with advanced techniques, understanding specialized client needs and keeping up with the ever-evolving science of movement. In a field where knowledge and client expectations are constantly shifting, maintaining your competitive edge requires more than just the basics. So how do you stay ahead? The answer: ongoing professional development.

Merrithew understand the importance of supporting aspiring and established fitness professionals through every stage of their careers, which is why they are excited to announce the launch of the new Professional Development stream. This education stream is designed to you stay on top of the latest mind-body exercise trends, refine your skills and bring more value to your clients.

 

Why professional development matters

Whether you’re an experienced instructor or just starting out, continuous learning is what keeps you relevant in the ever-changing fitness world. Here’s why professional development is more important than ever:

• Stay relevant: The fitness world never stands still, and neither should you. Professional development keeps you current with the latest techniques, research and trends, ensuring you’re prepared to meet your clients’ evolving needs.
• Build client trust: Your clients rely on you for expertise. By continually expanding your knowledge, you not only improve their results but also build a reputation as a trusted, knowledgeable instructor who’s committed to their success.
• Unlock new opportunities: Specialized training opens doors. With advanced skills, you can work with a broader range of clients, from athletes to those recovering from injury or surgery, helping you grow your career and business.

 

What makes Merrithew’s Professional Development stream stand out

Merrithew’s Professional Development stream is designed to dive deeper into specialized areas of fitness and movement, giving you the tools you need to offer more to your clients. This Professional Development Courses focus on high-level concepts, covering everything from advanced anatomy and biomechanics to special populations training and business skills.

 

Here’s what sets our Professional Development stream apart:

• Specialized skills acquisition: Merrithew’s courses offer an in-depth exploration of advanced techniques, anatomy, biomechanics and injury management, allowing participants to expand their mind-body knowledge. Whether you’re focusing on optimizing shoulder function, working with breast cancer survivors or exploring the body’s fascial connections, these courses are designed to enhance both your theoretical understanding and practical application. They also plan to offer courses covering essential business and marketing skills, ensuring the knowledge you gain is directly transferable to real-world professional scenarios.
• Instructional skill enhancement: Beyond theory, their Professional Development stream focuses on refining your instructional skills. You’ll learn effective cueing, program design and client communication techniques to meet and exceed client needs. This practical approach ensures that you’re well-equipped to deliver high-quality instruction and achieve outstanding results for your clients.
• Enhanced networking and community building: Their Professional Development stream offers opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, fostering community and networking within the fitness industry. By building deeper connections, you’ll expand your professional network and influence, while engaging with a wider range of clients and peers.

 

A glimpse into Merrithew courses

Merrithew are kicking off the Professional Development stream with three courses that will help you deepen your expertise. Here’s a quick look:

• STOTT PILATES® Optimization of the Shoulder Complex: Explore the biomechanics of the shoulder and learn how to improve function and mobility through targeted techniques.
• STOTT PILATES Programming Protocols for Breast Cancer Rehab: Gain specialized knowledge for assisting breast cancer patients at every stage of their recovery, from pre-op to post-op.
• Merrithew Myofascial Continuities: Mapping the Human Design: Dive into the myofascial system and discover how these connections support better movement and performance.

Each course provides practical, hands-on learning through lectures, problem-based learning and demonstrations, ensuring that you can apply your new skills immediately in your practice. Upon completing each course, you’ll receive a letter of completion, a certificate of participation and STOTT PILATES Continuing Education Credits (CECs), highlighting your dedication to ongoing professional growth and excellence in mind-body fitness.

These three courses are just the beginning, with many more to come as they continue expanding offerings to provide even more opportunities for growth and learning.

 

Take your career to the next level

As the world of fitness and wellness transforms, Merrithew is excited to support your growth. The new Professional Development stream is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to take your practice — and your career — to new heights. Learn more about our courses and start your journey today.

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2024-09-30/why-professional-development-is-key-to-pilates-career-growth-and-how-merrithew-is-leading-the-way?utm_source=Mailchimp&utm_campaign=739ef4315d-NL_202410_Part_1&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-814c5498ca-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&ct=t(NL_202410_Part_1)&goal=0_0cd2a6749f-739ef4315d-182743006&mc_cid=739ef4315d&mc_eid=0c09e032cf

**The original text has been slightly modified to fit the local cultural context

Source: https://www.concept2.com/blog/strength-and-fitness-the-401k-for-your-body

Eleiko weightlifting bars are designed for explosive Olympic lifting. The bars combine strength and flexibility to achieve the perfect whip and features needling bearings for a smooth rotation during dynamic lifts. This product guide is designed to help you choose the right bar from our Weightlifting category.

For 60 years, our equipment has raised the bar and set new standards for strength equipment. Eleiko’s weightlifting bars are made in Halmstad, Sweden and are crafted from our specially formulated Swedish steel. The bars feature a dustproof sleeve for greater longevity, a durable chrome finish, a balanced knurling and optimized rotation for superior performance at all loads.
Our Weightlifting Bars are divided into four lines: Training, Performance, Competition and Technique. Choose a product line based on the main purpose of your training.

COMPETITION AND TRAINING

Weightlifting bars in our Competition line are designed to meet the high standards of professional weightlifting. This category includes bars for both Competition and Training that are certified by the International Weightlifting Federation.

The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar is designed specifically for competitive Olympic weightlifting and calibrated to extreme competition standards. The bar has tight tolerances and aggressive knurling suited for one rep max attempts.

For professional weightlifters looking for a bar for training purposes, we recommend the Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar.

While the IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar is IWF- certified for the competition stage, the training bar is certified for training through the IWF and calibrated accordingly. The Weightlifting Training Bar also has a slightly smoother and less aggressive knurling –ideal for a higher volume of lifting.

The bars in our Weightlifting Competition line are available in two versions: 15 kg and 20 kg.

PERFORMANCE

Weightlifting Bars in our Performance line are designed for multi-purpose use and optimized training.

These bars are a good choice for athletes in professional sports, high performance strength and conditioning, and general fitness.

The Eleiko Performance Weightlifting Bar has precision needle bearings, an inner raise and dustproof seal. This ensures that weight moves smoothly under load and at high speeds.

The mild knurling provides a good grip suited for high-performance training.

The Performance Weightlifting Bar is available in two versions: 15 kg and 20 kg.

TECHNIQUE

Weightlifting bars in the Technique line are designed for lifters focusing on improving technique and form. For beginners, youth or facilities requiring lighter weight bars, we recommend the Eleiko Weightlifting Technique Bar (5kg and 10kg).

The bar has low starting weight and less aggressive knurling, suitable for higher repetitions and practicing technique.

The Eleiko Weightlifting Technique Bar replicates the feeling of a standard Eleiko bar, enabling a smooth transition to heavier standard bars as technique improves.

Source: https://education.eleiko.com/en/education/resources/124/75/eleiko-weightlifting-bar-guide#gs.fy664c

When you are expected to get the best results for your patients in the least amount of time, all of your decisions must be carefully planned. We compiled this guide to help you make the best decisions for your patients and your facility when it comes to selecting exercise equipment.

1. Accessibility

Are all of your products easily accessible to your patients? If the equipment requires the patient to stand (such as a treadmill), ensure that there are steps and handrails to help them along. If the product has a seat, check to see if it is removable for wheelchair access. For easy patient transfers, the seat should feature a swivel as well as vertical height adjustment. Choose equipment with adequate body weight and height capacity for various users.

2. Space

Determine how much space is available, and ensure the product you are considering fits in that space. If not, see “Double-Duty” below.

3. Double-Duty

Can the product be used for more than one exercise or more than one purpose? The more versatile the product, the more valuable it will be to your exercisers.

4. Data Collection and Tracking

Use data collection and tracking equipment to provide your exercisers with more informed results and a better progression history.

5. Accessories

Do you have patients who require grip assistance or leg supports while using exercise equipment? Do you want an accessory for rehabilitating shoulders on an upper-body exerciser? Decide what type of accessories you need and make them available to your exercisers.

6. Programs

Opt for equipment that gives you the programs your exercisers desire. These programs might include an isokinetic resistance program for safe, accommodating strength or constant workload based on a fixed-watts setting. Most exercise machines give basic feedback such as time and calories, but additional feedback such as RPMs, Watts and METs may be necessary for your exercisers.

7. Maintenance, Service and Support

Find out ahead of time if the equipment company you are considering has a certified service provider in your area. Choose products that require little preventive maintenance and a company that provides helpful live support staff.

8. Ease of Use

Choose a control panel that’s easy to read and use, has a simple menu and a clutter-free feedback screen. A screen with high contrast display and the option to hear audible beeps will benefit individuals with visual and hearing impairments.

9. Features

Make a list of the features you need and rank how important each is in your decision-making process. Don’t forget to include necessary features for physical therapy, such as bi-directional resistance, low starting resistance, a reclining seat and proper biomechanics.

10. Adjustability and Range of Motion

Take into consideration the range of motion and adjustability requirements of your patients (e.g., adjustable cranks, adjustable axis of rotation and adjustable seat height). Identify products that meet these needs to ensure proper body placement and biomechanics.

11. Durability

You’re a professional. You, your facility and your patients deserve professional tools. Don’t cut corners with your products. Instead, go for high quality and lasting durability. The right product will last for years and will require very little maintenance. If the lower cost, lower quality product is all you think you can afford, don’t settle. Check out your financing options. Leasing plans are readily available and the rates are generally favorable.

12. Trusted Brand

Choose a trusted brand with experience in medical exercise therapy. A well-established brand will typically come with a knowledgeable staff that will be there to support you for years to come.

Learn how Life Fitness can support your facility’s physical therapy fitness equipment needs today.

Source: https://www.lifefitness.com/en-us/customer-support/education-hub/blog/12-things-consider-physical-therapy-fitness-equipment

As the summer games approach their closing, now is the perfect time to keep the momentum alive by incorporating new exercises into your Pilates routine, helping you stay motivated and challenging yourself like a true athlete. This month, we’re thrilled to feature the Back Splits exercise from the STOTT PILATES^® repertoire, inspired by the training of gymnasts and demonstrated by Rachel Park, a Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer based in Bangkok, Thailand.

This Intermediate to Advanced level exercise is designed to push your limits, so a spotter is required to ensure safety as you master the move. With her extensive experience and expertise, Rachel makes this challenging exercise accessible and highly beneficial for gymnasts and athletes alike. Back Splits involves performing a lunge on the Reformer with your back foot on the footbar and your front foot on the moving carriage. This setup requires precise coordination and control, enhancing both balance and strength while maintaining slight spinal extension.

Back Splits focus areas include:

The Back Splits is a whole-body exercise that demands complete coordination and engagement from head to toe to achieve balance in this challenging stance.

• Upper body engagement: The shoulder girdle should be engaged, helping to activate the upper abdominals and lift the upper body out of the lower body, creating a sense of length and stability as the lower body works.
• Total body involvement: In this exercise, every part of your body is active. The movement of the lower body is crucial for propulsion and strength, but equally important is the role of the upper body in maintaining stability and control. Both the moving and stabilizing parts of your body are working in harmony, making this a full-body effort.
• Pelvic stability: Keep your pelvis at a consistent height throughout the movement, avoiding any up-and-down motion. Ensure the pelvis remains level and squared, preventing rotation toward the back leg and avoiding lifting on one side.
• Knee and foot alignment: Maintain the front knee tracking in line with the center of the front foot. Avoid excessive knee flexion by returning the foot under the knee to prevent stress on the patella.

Key benefits of Back Splits:

• Improves balance and stability: Enhances control and coordination, which boosts overall balance and core stability.
• Enhanced lower body strength: Targets the glutes, quadriceps and hamstrings, building lower body strength and endurance.
• Support for lumbar health: The slight spinal extension promotes lumbar alignment, improving posture and reducing the risk of lower back strain.

Back Splits pro tips:

• Adjust spring tension: Use lighter springs on the Reformer to focus on balance and core engagement. Alternatively, use heavier springs to increase resistance and build lower body strength. Adjust the tension based on your individual needs and goals.
• Progression – building up for Back Splits: As an intermediate exercise, Back Splits can be challenging for some practitioners. To help you master it, consider these modifications and progressions based on your experience level.

1. Practice a lunge on the mat: Focus on achieving proper alignment and stability.
2. Use a slider disk under the front foot: This will help mimic the movement of the Reformer carriage to get a feel for the exercise.
3. Practice a lunge with feet on the floor between the rails: Keep your hands on the shoulder blocks for added stability.
4. Set up for Back Splits: Position your hands on the shoulder blocks for additional support as you prepare for the full exercise.
5. Perform full Back Splits: Once you’re confident with the progressions, attempt the full Back Splits exercise on the Reformer.

Now that you’ve learned how to perform the Back Splits exercise, it’s time to put it into action. Whether you’re a gymnast, an athlete or simply looking to elevate your fitness routine, Back Splits are your ticket to building strength, improving stability and enhancing overall performance. So, get on the Reformer, apply these tips and start seeing the benefits in your practice today!

 

Source:
https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2024-08-28/exercise-of-the-month-back-splits