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by DennisP 1064 days ago
Bruce Lee famously used isometrics, using a bar attached to a chain, attached to a platform to stand on.

A modern equivalent is the Isomax, which adds a strain gauge so you can see how hard you pulled, and audible feedback that tells you when you're pulling harder than your target weight. You can do deadlifts, squats, presses, rows, and so on. Even a chest press, it uses a strap made of seatbelt material and you can wrap it around your back instead of attaching to the platform.

https://www.dragondoor.com/products/isomax/

There's various stuff on youtube, and on the previous generation called the Isochain, which is heavier and a bit less convenient to work with but essentially the same. It uses a chain instead of a strap, and has a heavy spring so there's still a slight bit of give to it, which they say helps your nervous system make a strong effort. Here's one channel dedicated to it:

https://www.youtube.com/@NoLimitSquad

I recently got the Isomax and it seems to be a pretty solid piece of kit. I've mainly been using other gear so haven't done that much with it yet, but this study has me thinking I should get more serious about it.

1 comments

If you don't want to start with something as elaborate, is some basic straps in a loop. Worldfit[0] sells these simple pieces, work great.

[0]: https://www.worldfit.com/

Sure that's a much cheaper way to start. I do find the feedback helpful. A lot of times I think I'm giving max effort but the device isn't beeping yet, and I find I've got more in me after all. It's kinda like lifting a barbell, where you have to exceed a certain force to get something to happen.