The Power of Keiser
At the Movement Performance Centre a majority of our training is done on Keiser strength training equipment. Utilizing the benefits of Keiser equipment we have been able to create a world class training facility. Keiser’s pneumatic technology allows our specialists to train power both safely and effectively in all of our training population groups, from professional athletes training in the offseason to the weekend warriors preparing for their recreational league games. Using the laws of physics, three benefits are accomplished by using air for resistance training:
- Consistent variable resistance curve at any speed
When we use a traditional weight stack, the 100 pound barbell is only 100 pounds when it is at rest or when it is moving at a constant velocity. Therefore, if we were bench pressing, it is only truly 100lbs at the bottom of the movement (on your chest) and at the top of the exercise when your arms are extended. Any time the weight is in between those two positions the weight is less than 100lbs. This is because we have accelerated it from point A to point B; momentum takes over and that weight is no longer 100lbs. With the pneumatic system the resistance stays constant throughout the entire range of motion, no matter how fast the bar is accelerated.
- Decreased shock loading on Connective Tissue and Joints
High-speed training was once thought of as dangerous and associated with joint and connective tissue injuries. These injuries occurred because of the high impact loads of the weights acting on our joints. The faster the weight is accelerated, the higher the impact loads are on the joints when starting and stopping the weight. Unfortunately these forces are experienced at ranges where the joints are most vulnerable. Because the resistance stays consistent throughout the entire range of motion, Keiser equipment allows us to accelerate the load at very high speeds without the high impact loads of starting and stopping the weight.
- Stability and Control
Because Keiser has managed to eliminate mass in resistance training, it also removes an element of artificial stability we experience with traditional weight lifting. If you think of a tightrope walker you will be able to visualize this concept. In order for the tightrope walker to maintain their balance, they use a long pole that has some mass to it to help stabilize themselves on the rope. This pole helps add stability to the system so the walker does not have to solely rely on their joints for proprioception and stability to stay balanced. The traditional barbell is 7 feet in length and weighs 45lbs. As we add more plate weights to the end of the bar, it gives the body even more stability when performing the exercise. Keiser has created a barbell that is shorter and lighter than the traditional barbell and is loaded by air and not with weight plates. Therefore there is more onus on the body and joints to stabilize throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise.
While an athlete will probably never use maximum strength in competition, the demands of power (combination of speed and strength) are present in all sports. With Keiser’s pneumatic technology, we are able to train power both safely and effectively, giving our athlete the edge come competition day.