Favorite Brand of Equipment?

[John Romano]

Free weights are cool, but so are some machines. Forget price. What do you guys think is the best brand of weight training equipment and why?

[tiramisu]

I'll start....

I like hammer strength.... Love some of the old nautilus stuff but you never see it anymore.

[Sean Katterle]

Nebula Fitness for their custom contest benches, deadlift platforms, monolifts, free standing chalk bowls, plate storage, deadlift helper and monster leg press (as seen in Ronnie Coleman's training videos)

Ivanko's chrome lined competition pound plates are my favorite weight plates.

Ivanko's top of the line powerlifting bar is my favorite benchpress bar.

For squats either a Texas Squat Bar or Jessup Squat Bar.

For deadlifting a Texas Deadlift Bar.

Sorinex for their Lever Lock Hydraulic Squat Rack, T-Bar Row, Squat Boxes, Explosion Blocks, Flat Bench w/Auto Spot Dumbbell Spotter, Counter Balanced Smith Machine and One Leg Squat Stand

Elite FTS for their Pro Glute Ham Raise, Collegiate Power Rack, Reverse Hyper Pro, Prowler and Double Pulling Sled

Jump Stretch for their Flex Bands Pulling Platforms

IronMind Enterprises' Buffalo Bar, S Cubed Squat Bar, Go Really Grip Machine, Hardy Handshake, One Wicked Wrist Roller, Rolling Thunder and Tough As Nails Sandbag Kit

Atomic Athletic's Farmer's Walk Handles and Plate Loaded Super Yoke

Slater's Hardware for Stone Molds

Fat Bastard Barbell Company's Big T Power Stairs Bar

[mustng91]

Anything Sorinex...pricing is insane, but absolutely awesome equipment, especially the auto spot dumbbell bench (which was already mentioned above).

Big fan of all the plate loaded Hammer Strength equipment too.

[Dee]

cybex smith machine.....it has this free weight feel to it, not as fixed in its movement as other smith machines....

hammer strength.....especially the dorian yates row and decline press machines.

[TigerUpperCut]

hammer strength

[kenbo213]

Hammer strength shoulder press machine... makes me feel like a new man with my torn labrums .

[Michael Raimondo]

Hammer Strength and Atlantis

[Rick Prince]

John I don't have a favorite brand, but like certain brands better for specific exercises.
Leg Press: Nebula
Hack Squat: Flex Fitness
Smith Machine: Icarian
Leg Extension: Icarian
Leg Curl: Icarian
Standing Calf Raise: Icarian
Squat Machine: BodyMasters Power Squat
Horizontal Bench Press Mach: Hammer Strength
Incline Bench Press Mach.: Nautilus plate loaded
Shoulder Press Mach.: Hammer Strength
Side & Front Lateral Machine: Cybex
Cable Machine: BodyMasters
Cardio: StairMaster Step Mill
Plates: Ivanko

[azn-beef]

Icarian!!!!

[ANADROLicfreak]

nothing beats free weights but flex,hammer strengh,nautilus,cybex are a few good ones.

[Curt James]

Hammer Strength for plate-loading goodness.

http://fitnessworldnc.com/images/hammerlatinclinepress.jpg

Life Fitness machines for a speedy efficient workout.

http://www.idsa.org/absolutenm/articlefiles/2954-Life-Fitness.jpg

Bodymasters equipment for a quick full body workout, too.

Nm9sAUB0g0Y

[Jude2]

Hammer Strength for plate loaded and BodyMasters for machines.

[crashcrew56]

Nebula Fitness for their custom contest benches, deadlift platforms, monolifts, free standing chalk bowls, plate storage, deadlift helper and monster leg press (as seen in Ronnie Coleman's training videos)

Ivanko's chrome lined competition pound plates are my favorite weight plates.

Ivanko's top of the line powerlifting bar is my favorite benchpress bar.

For squats either a Texas Squat Bar or Jessup Squat Bar.

For deadlifting a Texas Deadlift Bar.

Sorinex for their Lever Lock Hydraulic Squat Rack, T-Bar Row, Squat Boxes, Explosion Blocks, Flat Bench w/Auto Spot Dumbbell Spotter, Counter Balanced Smith Machine and One Leg Squat Stand

Elite FTS for their Pro Glute Ham Raise, Collegiate Power Rack, Reverse Hyper Pro, Prowler and Double Pulling Sled

Jump Stretch for their Flex Bands Pulling Platforms

IronMind Enterprises' Buffalo Bar, S Cubed Squat Bar, Go Really Grip Machine, Hardy Handshake, One Wicked Wrist Roller, Rolling Thunder and Tough As Nails Sandbag Kit

Atomic Athletic's Farmer's Walk Handles and Plate Loaded Super Yoke

Slater's Hardware for Stone Molds

Fat Bastard Barbell Company's Big T Power Stairs Bar


I agree with most of those, but for a squat bar I would have to say a Mastadon, for a deadlift bar I would have to go with an Oki.

Favorite bench press and monolift goes to Metal Militia

[data]

Hammer strength. Its a solid piece of equipment. The fully contracted position is hardest. And its near frictionless with those smooth ball bearing joints.

[ROTFLMAO]

Flex Fitness Systems http://www.flexfitness.com/


http://www.flexfitness.com/default.tpl?cart=34746507673013191&startat=5&max=2&RANKtype=number&asRANKsort=1&asSKUsort=2&--woSECTIONSdatarq=9&--SECTIONSword=ww&





Just train on it for a week and you'll know why................

["Rodz"]

Hammer strength, i train alone, so this is as close to free weights as i can get on some moves, the security lets me push harder without any fear







http://www.needtobuildmuscle.net/reps/idevaffiliate.php?id=113 (http://www.needtobuildmuscle.net/reps/idevaffiliate.php?id=113)

51422

[Prince]

I like hammer strength....

ditto.

[zubbeyboy]

Remember the "STRIVE" Machines Bill Phillips used to have in his huge Gym at the Muscle Media 2000 headquarters in Colorado? Strive was some cool stuff MM2K pushed it hard. What ever happened to Phillips mega facility he built? Is it still there? Man that place was sweet!

[Ninja Loco]

I'll start....

I like hammer strength.... Love some of the old nautilus stuff but you never see it anymore.
We have 8 Nautilus machines. The shoulder lateral like Ronnie uses at Metroflex, the pec dec/chest press combo, standing calf/triceps dip, lying hamstring curl, leg extension, seated preacher curl, seated triceps extension, and seated pullover.

To answer the question my favorites are of course the Nautilus, Hammer Strength, and Powertech.

[John Romano]

Remember the "STRIVE" Machines Bill Phillips used to have in his huge Gym at the Muscle Media 2000 headquarters in Colorado? Strive was some cool stuff MM2K pushed it hard. What ever happened to Phillips mega facility he built? Is it still there? Man that place was sweet!

That place was cool! Remember the theater room? Or how about Bill's office with the TVs coming out of the ceiling? That place was a class act.

[Gregzs]

There are some Parrillo pieces that I will never forget. T-bar row, seated calf, and the arched incline bench. I didn't get to use some of the rest like the belt squat or the standing calf with forced rep handles. The equipment is not currently made but the closest out there now is Nebula.

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=121167181&highlight=parrillo

[NAB023]

Fat Bars-
YouTube- EliteFTS.com: ONE movement - Fat Bar with Chains
YouTube- Elitefts.com: ONE movement - Fat Bar Reverse Grip Seated Overhead Press

Swiss Bars
YouTube- EliteFTS.com: ONE movement - Swiss Bar Row with Chains
YouTube- Elitefts.com - ONE movement: Swiss Bar Chain Press

Safety Squat Bar
YouTube- Elitefts.com - Dave Tate's 1-6-10 Training Log

Zig Zag Bar
YouTube- EliteFTS.com: ONE movement - Fat Zig Zag Bar Extensions with Chains

Boards
YouTube- EliteFTS.com: Tricep Hell
YouTube- EliteFTS.com: Board 101

Sledge Hammers
YouTube- Elitefts.com - Dave Tate's 10-22-09 Training Log pt3

Prowler
YouTube- The Prowler Suicide Challenge at Underground Strength Gym of Edison, NJ

BandBoo Bar
YouTube- Bandbell (Bamboo) Bar
Cambered Bar
YouTube- Elitefts.com - Mello 745 Rackable Cambered Bar

Chains
YouTube- Elitefts.com - Exercise Index: Chain Extensions

[NAB023]

Blast Straps
[COLOR=#800080]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo6WbZ34E3A[/COLO"]YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.[/COLO"]YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.
http://www.youtube.com/user/bruno082985#p/u/0/SYTJX54A30A (http://www.youtube.com/user/bruno082985#p/u/0/SYTJX54A30A)
http://www.youtube.com/user/bruno082985#p/u/41/8f0AD3dxNdw (http://www.youtube.com/user/bruno082985#p/u/41/8f0AD3dxNdw)
http://www.youtube.com/user/EliteFitnessSystems#p/search/2/tSs5-enM9uk (http://www.youtube.com/user/EliteFitnessSystems#p/search/2/tSs5-enM9uk)

[Voland]

Hammer Strength all and the old Cybex should press machine.

[SoreButtCheeks]

I wouldn't say no to a garage full of Med X machines.

[ubermensch]

Free weights are cool, but so are some machines. Forget price. What do you guys think is the best brand of weight training equipment and why?


John, are you familiar with Physiques Unlimited in Pompano on Atalantic? You know those old white machines? They don't have a name on them but they are waaaay better than any Hammer Strength or Cybex or any other machine I've ever tried. I've said many times before..."These machines have probably been here 20-25 years and will be here another 20-25 years. Super sturdy and very anatomically correct.

[Quadsweep]

Nebula...hands down.

[ccn916]

I like Hammer Strength too for their plate loaded pieces, however the gym I am at now has a free weight bench mad by them and Im not a fan. The hooks are very small and I feel like im going to miss the pins and drop the bar on myself lol

[Jer]

HammerStrength and Nebula for the most part, but there are some Cybex, Flex, Nautulis and various "smaller" brands that all find their way into my workouts, because they have the best feel for ME.

[nycdude]

I gotta say I LOVE the old school Nautilus pullover machines. Favorite back exercise when I can find one.

[robofsteel]

Remember the "STRIVE" Machines Bill Phillips used to have in his huge Gym at the Muscle Media 2000 headquarters in Colorado? Strive was some cool stuff MM2K pushed it hard. What ever happened to Phillips mega facility he built? Is it still there? Man that place was sweet!

It was actually EAS's headquarters. The corp gym was great. Everything you needed to get a great workout in. I worked out there about a dozen times. Bill sold EAS to North Castle Partners and then NCP sold it to Abbott Labs. I am pretty sure Abbott closed all the Colorado warehouses and ship out of Ohio. I was the N.East sales manager for EAS from 2000-2003.

[Steve_Colescott]

I love, love, love this stuff. Sorinex, Nebula, Free Motion and Atlantis are the four best companies but, if you want the ultimate gym, you need to cherry-pick specific pieces from a variety of companies. My favorites:

• 45-degree Leg Press (Nebula)
• Functional Trainer/High-Low Adjustable Cables (Free Motion, Atlantis, Badger Magnum or Innofit)
• Power Rack with band pins (Elite Fitness, Sorinex Base Camp Rack Uber Package or Atomic Athletic Custom Rack)
• Hurricane (Sorinex)
• Deadlift/Rowing Platform (Cybex) great for rack pulls
• Reverse Hyperextension (Louie Simmons) a necessity for spine health and posterior chain power
• Hamflexor (Flex Equipment)
• DY Row (Hammer Strength) or Atlantis ISO Plate-loaded Row
• Belt Squat (Sorinex)
• Seated Leg Ext. /Curl (Innofit)
• Leg Extension (Badger Magnum Plate-loaded) plate-loaded just feels right on these
• Super Horizontal Calf (Hammer Strength)
• 45-degree Calf Slide (Nebula)
• Seated Calf / Tib Machine (Sorinex)
• Pullover (Hammer Strength or Nautilus)
• Hammer Gripper Unit (or Sorinex G-Rex Gripper)
• Standing Scott Bench (Bodymasters) rounded face, two-sided
• Glute-Ham Raise (Power-Lift, Sorinex or York Barbell)
• Tru-Squat
• Rickshaw (Elite Fitness) great for traps
• I’m not a big ab machine person but the old Nautilus Crunch (where your hips rise towards your sternum) kicks ass. The only other one I like is…
• The Ab Coaster (provides a great resistance-based contraction and allows you to rotate the seat to bring in the obliques)
• Professional 45-degree Back Raise (Elite Fitness) has band pegs for proper resistance
• Log Bar (Brute Strength, Power-Lift or Sorinex) great for standing presses
• Wrist Curl bench (Atlantis or Larry Scott)
• Prowler (for building conditioning, enhancing recovery and strengthening every assistance muscle in the body)

I could ramble on and on…

[ZacharyKane]

I gotta say I LOVE the old school Nautilus pullover machines. Favorite back exercise when I can find one.

Agreed...my gym is an old nautilus franchise, so it's ALL old nautilus stuff...the pullover, and leg extension machines are my favorite

[coaltrain]

Shake weight!
http://ts1.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1604225610900&id=05c1067c97f798fb8d1ee725c52b2847&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.asseenontvpromo.com%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2009%2f09%2fshake-weight.jpg (http://www.asseenontvpromo.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/shake-weight.jpg)

[Steve_Colescott]

Another company (the brand escapes me) made a seated cable row machine in which you pull on an incline and the pulley is set midway, which made it halfway between a lat pulldown and a seated row but, only when you rig up something with equipment in the gym, the elevated foot placement kept you from having to worry about your ass raising up once you went heavy. That's some good stuff. Anyone know the make of the unit I'm refering to?

[Steve_Colescott]

Louie Simmons also has a modified Reverse Hyperextension that is designed for hamstring-emphasis. I wish I had tried it when I was there last.

[Sandpig]

I agree with Steve. Most every company makes some good stuff. Some just feel better than others though. So you need to pick and choose specific ones.

I really like the plate loaded HS and the old Nautilus pullover.

[JUSTINIAN]

I've thought about how to answer this John and I can't just pick one brand honestly.....I guess thats why in my gym I purchased all the equipment "piece by piece" and didn't go the traditional route of buying certain lines like most gyms...I have like 12 different brands of machines in my gym (Power Fitness in NY)...reason being that I like different machines for different bodyparts....so I'd have to break it down by body part.....if I was forced to pick "one" i'd have to say Hammer Strength...and for cardio I like the Arc Trainer the best.....my favorite machine in my place is an old school Yellow Hammer leg press made before Life Fitness took them over....its an old piece that actually has a cloth (almost carpet like) material on the platform where u press....coolest leg machine ever....old school but cool.

[nycdude]

Anyone know who made those leg press machines where you laid on the ground on your back and the platform lowered straight down on top of you - NOT at an angle like a more common leg press, but straight down like it would crush you??? I've seen it at two places. Always looking old and beat up. A trip to use, but kinda fun.

[Steve_Colescott]

Anyone know who made those leg press machines where you laid on the ground on your back and the platform lowered straight down on top of you - NOT at an angle like a more common leg press, but straight down like it would crush you??? I've seen it at two places. Always looking old and beat up. A trip to use, but kinda fun.
Every old school designer had one of those. They are not popular these days due to the combo of interthoracic pressure from holding your breath (the valsalva effect) and the position of the legs overhead causing extremes in blood pressure. I guess some pussies complain that strokes hinder their symmetry. The Vertical Leg Press does have a unique feel though and Kell Strength made a great one, but I believe they have been out of business for awhile. I think David did too. AFS made a seated one that was pretty good and came close to that feel.

Any European posters on here use the Panatta Sport line? They look great. I've always wondered if they felt as smooth as they look?

[Kenzilla21]

Nautilus 2nd generation machines, the old blue and black ones with the shell on them.

[Michael Raimondo]

Now these machines are Old School, i have approx 15-20 old nautilus machine that are going to go.....we are replacing all our machines with new Hammer Strength and Cybex

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51609

[Rick Prince]

Any European posters on here use the Panatta Sport line? They look great. I've always wondered if they felt as smooth as they look?
Steve, the Lion's Den Gym in Athens, AL has several pieces of Panatta Sport equipment (overhead tricep extension, bicep curl machine, incline bench press, seated vertical press, incline pec deck, shoulder press, leg extension, leg curl), but does not have a Panatta leg presses. Many of the pieces are the old chain driven machines.

[AVBG]

cybex leg equip fits me well.

[Steve_Colescott]

Michael R:

We used to refer to the machines in the middle pic as the Yes and the No machines.

[Steve_Colescott]

Some guys love sports cars. To ME, this is a beautiful thing:

[TPT]

Now these machines are Old School, i have approx 15-20 old nautilus machine that are going to go.....we are replacing all our machines with new Hammer Strength and Cybex

51607

51608

51609


why get rid of the nautilus machines?

theyre still good.

[Steve_Colescott]

why get rid of the nautilus machines?

theyre still good.
I am sure they rarely get used. Looking at the ergonomics of some of those, we really have advanced quite a bit. For people that care more about training effect though, some of them are great. I would tell them you will help get rid of that Pullover unit for them.

[TPT]

I am sure they rarely get used. Looking at the ergonomics of some of those, we really have advanced quite a bit. For people that care more about training effect though, some of them are great. I would tell them you will help get rid of that Pullover unit for them.


lol.

many do fit archaically though i appreciate many of the combination machines that set up preexhausts. e.g., the combined pec deck and chest press machine.

[Steve_Colescott]

Hours of fun!

[Steve_Colescott]

$2,699.95 usd

[Rattbones]

Hammer Strength and Nautulis, some of the old Flex

on the other hand I hate Cybex equipment, cheap shit

[Silidons]

hammer strength, because, well, that's pretty much all my gym has

[Michael Raimondo]

I am sure they rarely get used. Looking at the ergonomics of some of those, we really have advanced quite a bit. For people that care more about training effect though, some of them are great. I would tell them you will help get rid of that Pullover unit for them.

Your right steve...out of all the old nautilus machines the only ones that get used are the pullover machine....and ab crunch machine(which is amazing)

[Baldiewonkanobi]

Another company (the brand escapes me) made a seated cable row machine in which you pull on an incline and the pulley is set midway, which made it halfway between a lat pulldown and a seated row but, only when you rig up something with equipment in the gym, the elevated foot placement kept you from having to worry about your ass raising up once you went heavy. That's some good stuff. Anyone know the make of the unit I'm refering to?

Paramount had that one. Now their equipment looks like the new Nautilus. I too liked the older Nautilus pull over which also nailed the lower abs. There was one in the ab room at the Mecca in the 80s. Bet you could still find it.
We have rigged up a faux Louie Simmons reverse hyper set up in our gym. Nails my sorry old ass big time.


Baldie

[crashcrew56]

Some guys love sports cars. To ME, this is a beautiful thing:


The GHR is awesome, by far my favorite hammstring exercise.

[Nickyfregs]

I've been training for 10+ years and competing for 5 and have been to every hardcore gym in the country and I NEVER paid attention to the brand of machine I've used lol.

I guess I need to be more observant!! I just pick the one that I feel best and go from there. All these names/brands/types that you guys know is crazy!

[Medium Extreme]

My former gym had Hammer strength which I loved, I'm at LA fitness now where they have life fitness. I'd go with hammer strength

[HammerStrength12]

Any hammer strength machine

[jonny150]

Free weights are cool, but so are some machines. Forget price. What do you guys think is the best brand of weight training equipment and why?
i personaly like + own "powertec"-machines! they are solid + built for a lifetime + more! i love the powertec-machines + other powertec equipment i have in my personal private gym....i do have other brands too in my gym,like hammer-strength,which is also great! when i baught my equipment,i chose only equipment/machines that was strong enough + durable enough to last a lifetime...it had to be very,very-durable + strong...thats what i got with powertec. iv never regreted buying powertec.

[ROTFLMAO]

I was hoping some one would say BODY BY JAKE by now.......

[Steve_Colescott]

Elite Fitness Training has a great 45-degree Back Raise unit with band pegs allowing for proper adding of resistance:

[Steve_Colescott]

Bodymasters makes one of the few correctly designed Scott Curl Benches. To work correctly, they need to have a rounded face. This one can be used for Scott Curls on one side and Spider curls on the flat side. It has a sweet feel to it:

[Steve_Colescott]

Here is the Classic Nautilus Ab Crunch that had such a great feel to it. As you pulled downward, the seat rotated up topwards the sternum. Beneath it the Ab Coaster, which is one of the few new ab machines that actually are good:

[Steve_Colescott]

Elite Fitness Training makes the best rack for building your bench. The bars can be adjusted by one-inch increments and it has pegs for easy band set-ups. This thing is sturdy. I can load my full 135 on there and feel completely secure that the welds are going to hold:

[rxmuscle69]

got to be hammer strength for me. same kind of stress as free weights without the additional joint/ligament/tendon pains.

[Steve_Colescott]

Although not a big Leg Curl fan (Rack Pulls and Glute-Ham Raises activate the hamstrings 10x better), the Flex single-legged Hamflexor has a great feel to it:

[Steve_Colescott]

You don't run into these that often - the classic Nautilus Duo-squat in that distinct metallic blue. The strength curve on these make them difficult since the lockout was hard as hell.

[Steve_Colescott]

The best new addition to gyms over the past decade are multi-function trainers that give you the incredible ability to direct resistance:

[YNOT7]

Hammer Strength

[smvmuscle]

i love hammer strength and Flex equipment (not mag) They both make similar product heavy duty and great for isolation and compound movements

[Steve_Colescott]

Anyone know who made those leg press machines where you laid on the ground on your back and the platform lowered straight down on top of you - NOT at an angle like a more common leg press, but straight down like it would crush you??? I've seen it at two places. Always looking old and beat up. A trip to use, but kinda fun.
I came across the website of a company called Strength Inc. They make an old school Vertical Leg Press. I also attached an image of their 70-degree Leg Press, which I would REALLY love to try.

[big.poppa.pump]

We have the Dorian Yates era Nautilus machines in my gym and a few hammer strength machines. They do the job just fine

[axioma]

Anyone used a Jones version of Smith machine? Only seen them demonstrated.

[Steve_Colescott]

Anyone used a Jones version of Smith machine? Only seen them demonstrated.
They move both horizontally and vertically. I'm not sure the advantage over just a bar in the rack? Unless, I guess, you have no spotter and a tendency to get stuck under a weight?

[John Romano]

They move both horizontally and vertically. I'm not sure the advantage over just a bar in the rack? Unless, I guess, you have no spotter and a tendency to get stuck under a weight?

There is one of those at Bev's. I love it. While I agree that we should cherry pick certain pieces from a variety of companies, I have to say that for overall build quality, ergonomics, and "feel," I have to go with Nebula and Hammer. There is another really incredible brand called Pendulum, but it's not made anymore.

I have a variety of injuries and physical limitation due to broken bones, torn muscles and chronic tendonitis. I can throw down on the Nebula and Pendulum machines and absolutely NOTHING hurts. That's a huge consideration for me if i were equipping a home gym.

[Medium Extreme]

My high school gym had a nautilus leg extension. Still have not found a leg extension that comes close to the workouts I got from that machine.

[TPT]

what brand is this?

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa177/lylemcd/LegPress001.jpg

[Michael Raimondo]

Death Wish....craaazy



what brand is this?

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa177/lylemcd/LegPress001.jpg

[Steve_Colescott]

looks like a great way to get neutered

[The Ultimate Warrior]

Most definitely, OLD school FLEX equipment. Quality, American-made, smooth machinery. And it just gives you the an 80s hardcore kind of feeling, especially when its colored bright blue or yellow!

[PSARG]

http://www.myspaceantics.com/images/myspace-graphics/funny-pictures/durex_condom.jpg (http://forums.rxmuscle.com/image-huge-seahorse.jpg.html)

/ DUREX equipment.

[Fluid Karma]

A Habib pocket pussy from your local 7-11

http://edenfantasys.com/150x150/FL001.jpg

[Fluid Karma]

Sometimes I like some ass

http://edenfantasys.com/150x150/FLJA.jpg

[AVBG]

Nautilus selectech db's are valued @ my humble home gym.

[LATS]

being a former gym owner i used to travel quite a bit to the fitness expos ect and try all the equipment.. kinda a equipment junkie..i have to say that if i picked selectorized pieces it would go to panatta sport in italy and gym80 in germany.. awesome pieces and very innovative... i got to use both and the feel is great with them .. for leverage equipment i would go with hammer and panatta again...
as the thread said money is no object lol.. now being a realist and stuck here in the good old usa i would say for most equipment i would go nebula and hammer..

[Nuckin Futs]

Swiss Ball.. Excellent for mass gains!

[Squid]

Any Elitefts equipment is awesome

[Manavs]

Nebula - http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209033230.jpg
http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209032843.jpg

[Gregzs]

I don't know how I could have overlooked TK Star. It is not like the company is out of business. I saw this for sale while browsing craigslist.

http://hudsonvalley.craigslist.org/spo/1589176742.html

I also found some old school Nautilus pieces.
http://hudsonvalley.craigslist.org/spo/1589866127.html

http://hudsonvalley.craigslist.org/spo/1589867412.html

[Gregzs]

http://www.tkstar.com/

[Overtrained]

I def like Hammer Strength. If I can pull some plates off a weight tree and load em up on a machine its good. Pullin pins out of a weight stack just dosent have the same feel IMO

[HealthNutMD]

Great thread. I actually came across this archived thread via Google. I think I found it by searching HAMFLEXOR which is one of the best kneeling Leg curls by far. Also a perfect thread since I am in the process of building a home gym with the best possible equipment and would like your feedback as well as any new info.

I'm hoping to make the Hammer Strength equipment purchase this week or next week but still haven't been able to get any help trying to find a gym or facility that I could visit that I would be able to demo the following (hoping to get a call with some advice on what facility may have these; I'm really trying to demo them, especially the MTSKC, even if I have to fly to LA or somewhere.):

Need to demo the following Hammer Strength:

PLPO (Pullover )
PLLR (Lateral raise)
ILKLC (Iso-lateral kneeling leg curl)
MTSKC (MTS Kneeling Leg Curl)
ILLC (Iso-lateral leg curl, plate loaded prone)
PLSLC (Plate Loaded seated leg curl)
ILWPD (Iso-lateral wide pulldown)
V-Squat MTSVS vs the V-Squat PLVSQ

Updated Definite List:


ILHBP Iso-Lateral Horizontal Press
MTSAB Abdominal crunch
ILSP Plate loaded shoulder press
PLBI Seated Biceps

Probable: MTSKC (MTS Kneeling Leg Curl)
Probable: PLPO (Pullover)


The good news is that the famous FLEX FITNESS HAMFLEXOR and FLEX FITNESS Prone Leg Curl is still available new thru Star Trac. Apparently all of the biomechanics are the same. If you look at the Star Trac website they look identical. My goal was to compare the HAMMER STRENGTH Kneeling Leg Curl to the HAMFLEXOR (Now Star Trac) Kneeling Leg Curl.

Here is what I purchased so far:

ELITE FTS Collegiate Power Rack

Elite FTS Colegiate 0-90 Bench

SORINEX HURRICANE

Elite FTS PRO Glute Ham Raise

Elite FTS Olympic EZ Spring Collar - A-TOZC-1/2

EFS - Hanging Ab Straps - A-EFSAB

EFS Rickshaw

Texas Power Bar

Spud Inc. Dip Belt - A-SPUDDIP

Rack Dip Attachment - DSWS-DIP 3x3 Frame Attachment

William Strength signature military dumbell bench

(2) custom 3 tiered William Strength pro dumbbell racks to hold 24 pr dumbells.

Dumbells: I decided on Troy Solid Rubber and Solid Urethane:

The TSD-R (12 sided rubber db) 10-100, 110, & 120 then TSD-U (12 sided urethane) 130, 140, & 150. The handles on the TSD-R are 30 mm for 5-50, 32 mm 55-75, 80 & above the handles are 34 mm. All handles on the TSD-U (any size) is 34 mm. So you would have 34 mm handles on all db’s 80 lbs. and above.

TSDR – 12 Sided Rubber Encased Dumbbell

10 -100 (5 lb increments), 110, 120

TSDU – 12 Sided Urethane Encased Dumbbell

130 -
140 -
150 -

Those last three are expensive!

And plates, the commercial grade troy interlocking... for 45, 35, 25, 10, 5 ....

I also got the Ivanko 6' curl bar coming at some point as well.


In any case, I'm looking for anything I might of missed!! Any otehr ideas please let me know. I'm thinking of going with the Williams Strength Signature decline bench but would like to know if their is anything else I should consider.

Doesn't seem to be any Power- Lift stuff on this thread. Looks good also...

Looking for more suggestions on the best pieces of all time!!

[ghung]

tower 200 from body by jake(ha,ha)

[HealthNutMD]

I don't know how I could have overlooked TK Star. It is not like the company is out of business.

Their handles look very, very nice:

http://www.tkstar.com/04tkextreme/images/703_lg.jpg

[HealthNutMD]

cybex smith machine.....it has this free weight feel to it, not as fixed in its movement as other smith machines....

hammer strength.....especially the dorian yates row and decline press machines.


I asked Life fitness about the Dorian Yates Row. I might be able to find one on www.usedgymequipment.com (http://www.usedgymequipment.com) I don't see it in their current line up... would love to know what it looks like. I'll search it...

[HealthNutMD]

Flex Fitness Systems http://www.flexfitness.com/


http://www.flexfitness.com/default.tpl?cart=34746507673013191&startat=5&max=2&RANKtype=number&asRANKsort=1&asSKUsort=2&--woSECTIONSdatarq=9&--SECTIONSword=ww&





Just train on it for a week and you'll know why................


No website anymore, But agree Flex Fitness made some great stuff... Thankfully looks like Star Trac kept their line intact. Tht ham flexor and prone Leg Curl still exactly the same looking and design they say. Looks identical. Under new ownership again moving the facilties entirely to China in December.

[HealthNutMD]

I wouldn't say no to a garage full of Med X machines.

Any favorite individual piece?

http://medxonline.com/index.php

[HealthNutMD]

Nebula...hands down.

Which pieces stand out though?

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Products.aspx

[HealthNutMD]

I gotta say I LOVE the old school Nautilus pullover machines. Favorite back exercise when I can find one.


Yea EVERYONE loves that Nautilus pullover machine. It is a shame nobody can duplicate it... Maybe the Hammer strength Plate Loaded Pullover is almost as good?

[HealthNutMD]

I love, love, love this stuff. Sorinex, Nebula, Free Motion and Atlantis are the four best companies but, if you want the ultimate gym, you need to cherry-pick specific pieces from a variety of companies. My favorites:


• 45-degree Leg Press (Nebula)
• Functional Trainer/High-Low Adjustable Cables (Free Motion, Atlantis, Badger Magnum or Innofit)
• Power Rack with band pins (Elite Fitness, Sorinex Base Camp Rack Uber Package or Atomic Athletic Custom Rack)
• Hurricane (Sorinex)
• Deadlift/Rowing Platform (Cybex) great for rack pulls
• Reverse Hyperextension (Louie Simmons) a necessity for spine health and posterior chain power
• Hamflexor (Flex Equipment)
• DY Row (Hammer Strength) or Atlantis ISO Plate-loaded Row
• Belt Squat (Sorinex)
• Seated Leg Ext. /Curl (Innofit)
• Leg Extension (Badger Magnum Plate-loaded) plate-loaded just feels right on these
• Super Horizontal Calf (Hammer Strength)
• 45-degree Calf Slide (Nebula)
• Seated Calf / Tib Machine (Sorinex)
• Pullover (Hammer Strength or Nautilus)
• Hammer Gripper Unit (or Sorinex G-Rex Gripper)
• Standing Scott Bench (Bodymasters) rounded face, two-sided
• Glute-Ham Raise (Power-Lift, Sorinex or York Barbell)
• Tru-Squat
• Rickshaw (Elite Fitness) great for traps
• I’m not a big ab machine person but the old Nautilus Crunch (where your hips rise towards your sternum) kicks ass. The only other one I like is…
• The Ab Coaster (provides a great resistance-based contraction and allows you to rotate the seat to bring in the obliques)
• Professional 45-degree Back Raise (Elite Fitness) has band pegs for proper resistance
• Log Bar (Brute Strength, Power-Lift or Sorinex) great for standing presses
• Wrist Curl bench (Atlantis or Larry Scott)
• Prowler (for building conditioning, enhancing recovery and strengthening every assistance muscle in the body)
I could ramble on and on…


Looks like I bought most of the things on your list, and I agreed apparently :yep: ... I enjoyed reading your post. However, for Glute Ham Raise, I chose the Elie FTS PRO Glute Ham Raise.

[andyb101]

hammer strength or cybex

[HealthNutMD]

Some guys love sports cars. To ME, this is a beautiful thing:


Where is the love for the Elite FTS Pro Glute Ham raise?

http://www.flexcart.com/members/elitefts/default.asp?m=PD&cid=167&pid=581

[HealthNutMD]

$2,699.95 usd


Seems like it went up in price a tiny bit, but I;ve got one ordered.... seems like a fun piece... very unique. Would love to know of more unique pieces like this.

[HealthNutMD]

Here is the Classic Nautilus Ab Crunch that had such a great feel to it. As you pulled downward, the seat rotated up topwards the sternum. Beneath it the Ab Coaster, which is one of the few new ab machines that actually are good:

Totally agree, however, the plate loaded Hammer Strength MTSAB (common piece) is also great IMO... I'm willing to drop almost 4K for it.

[HealthNutMD]

Although not a big Leg Curl fan (Rack Pulls and Glute-Ham Raises activate the hamstrings 10x better), the Flex single-legged Hamflexor has a great feel to it:


Amen.... going to demo the current version of it in Star Tracs current line-up. Sales rep swears it is the same exact biomechanics. By the look of it on star Trac's site it looks identical.

http://www.startrac.com/us-en/Strength/detail.aspx?id=95

Also, their Prone leg curl is amazing as well:

http://www.startrac.com/us-en/Strength/detail.aspx?id=96

[HealthNutMD]

I demoed the Star Trac kneeling Leg curl and the Star Trac prone leg curl ... side by side with the FLEX FITNESS and they are asbsolutely positively 100% identical in all but ssome minor cosmetics. They are the same machine/design... Heading off to demo the MTS Hammer strength kneeling leg curl now at another gym... Drove an hour last night to make those demos...

[Sandpig]

Yea EVERYONE loves that Nautilus pullover machine. It is a shame nobody can duplicate it... Maybe the Hammer strength Plate Loaded Pullover is almost as good?

I don't like the HS one because it doesn't allow for a good stretch.

[MDN]

Hammer Strength for sure. All of their back machines helped me when I was dealing with back/disc issues. The high underhand row, the DY row, and then using various forms of pulldowns saved my back training for a year or so.

MDN

[Bear's Den]

Yea EVERYONE loves that Nautilus pullover machine. It is a shame nobody can duplicate it... Maybe the Hammer strength Plate Loaded Pullover is almost as good?

I love Hammer Strength equipment but when I tried the plate loaded pullover, I just couldnt feel it. Couldnt get my elbows secure on the pads.

[joe-ali]

Call me old fashioned but nothing beats the 70's and 80's nautilus machines. I came back to seattle for a visit and went to my old golds that use to have mostly nautilus, but they told me they got rid of all of it coz their clients complained it hurt too much and too hard to use. Go figure. Also why the hell hammer strength is selling the selectorized weight stacks now?

[MightyMetcalf]

7Xj2SnFxvzU

This, by Pioneer. This was filmed at my old gym in Tulsa Oklahoma (not me in the video) They also have this for dumbells that slide forward, and bars on the side just incase you get trapped at the bottom. To date I haven't seen anything to beat this.

This equipment totally rocks!

[AVBG]

hammer strength

[doubleogordo]

7Xj2SnFxvzU


This, by Pioneer. This was filmed at my old gym in Tulsa Oklahoma (not me in the video) They also have this for dumbells that slide forward, and bars on the side just incase you get trapped at the bottom. To date I haven't seen anything to beat this.

This equipment totally rocks!
that thing is pretty cool
anybody ever try power blocks? i have always been curious
http://www.hffitnessandhealth.com/power_blocks.jpg

[Barrett]

LOVE:

Flex/Hammer Strength Equipment. The plate loaded machines are by far the best.

FLEX incline press (which are rarely seen anymore) is one of my favorite all time machines. Great groove and feel to it.

FLEX Multi-station. The cables are the SMOOTHEST out there. Especially the adjustable cables. They have a tri-pulley system for some of the smoothest pulleys imaginable.

Icarian Standing calf. Super nice machine. Great feel. The two step system offers versatility when training calves.

IRON GRIP DUMBELLS! Rubber coated Iron Grip dumbells are the best on the planet. The handle is thin, the knurling is so tough it cuts your hand (which is the way it should be) and perfectly balanced. Love these dumbells and wish I could afford my own!

Iron Grip Barbells. Again, heavy sharp knurling and thinly made. Great, great bars. Cant say enough about them.

FLEX power racks. Offer holes almost to your ankles which is good when you want to train the weak point of your deadlifts. Huge inside rack space. Has never given me a claustrophobic feeling like other racks ALWAYS DO! You have the freedom to move as far back as you like.

FLEX and Icarian Hack Squat. They are virtually the same. The smoothest hack machines i've ever used. Ever! Great feel and great pad placement. Icarian offers adjustable foot pad which is AWESOME! Those models are quite rare though.

Icarian 30 degree leg press. You can use a ton of weight and the plane of motion feels much more natural. The seat offers a good curve to accomodate the natural curve of your spine. Stoppers at the bottom rule.

HEX Dumbells. Awesome distribution of weight, good design. Wont roll on you. Super thin handles. Not enough knurling though.

HATE:
Startrac equipment! Too much padding and fits awkwardly with the designs of most pieces.

Hoist equipment. Concept is ok I guess for the average joe, not smooth and doesn't allow for great ranges of motion. Especially for taller guys like myself.

ALL LEVERAGE EQUIPMENT! Leverage equipment is the king of range-of-motion-killers. They allow no resistance at the top and have a weird groove to them. Never liked them ever!

Icarian early hack squat (One of the first models Icarian put out). Horrible angle, bad feel on the hip joints.

Any kind of adjustable dumbell. Any dumbell that has to be tightened with a pin flat out sucks. Give an uneven distribution of weight, throw off the plane of motion and mess with the overall quality of the rep. My gym has these and I FUCKING HATE THEM!

Tri-Bar dumbells. Horrible handles. The triangle concept sucks. Hurts your hands, cant grip right.

Any pulley system that is ran off of a single or double pulley. Not smooth. Not worth the time.

Screw-on collars. Don't always work, too bulky and cumbersome.

[Sandpig]

The old Pullover machine and a new one?
Any one ever try this new one?

[Sandpig]

I used to like this old Nautilus machine too. But never here anyone talk about it.

[Shoe]

Hammer Strength and Star Trac have good stuff. I got to play on the new Star Trac line and love it.

[vatel]

7Xj2SnFxvzU

This, by Pioneer. This was filmed at my old gym in Tulsa Oklahoma (not me in the video) They also have this for dumbells that slide forward, and bars on the side just incase you get trapped at the bottom. To date I haven't seen anything to beat this.

This equipment totally rocks!

That would make heavy dumbbell so much easier! Time to have a little talk with my gym owner...

[joe-ali]

Not to hijack this site, but if anyone knows where I can purchase any old nautilus equipment pleas let me know. This thread has planted a seed. I dreamt I had all those okld pieces in my gyms here. Now I must have them! Ahhaha

[meatheadio]

Steve, the Lion's Den Gym in Athens, AL has several pieces of Panatta Sport equipment (overhead tricep extension, bicep curl machine, incline bench press, seated vertical press, incline pec deck, shoulder press, leg extension, leg curl), but does not have a Panatta leg presses. Many of the pieces are the old chain driven machines.

For those in Victoria,Australia,Spartans Gym (in Kilsyth and Ballarat) carries all Pannata equipment. Its great stuff. There old stuff is tough as nails and never breaks and some of there newer stuff is great too. What I like about them is they make good quality equipment capable of taking a beating. We have a Pannata leg press at my gym and is still super smooth despite being probably 15 years old and has space to hold almost 50 45 pound plates.
Panatta is expensive but lasts forever

[meatheadio]

Great thread. I actually came across this archived thread via Google. I think I found it by searching HAMFLEXOR which is one of the best kneeling Leg curls by far. Also a perfect thread since I am in the process of building a home gym with the best possible equipment and would like your feedback as well as any new info.

I'm hoping to make the Hammer Strength equipment purchase this week or next week but still haven't been able to get any help trying to find a gym or facility that I could visit that I would be able to demo the following (hoping to get a call with some advice on what facility may have these; I'm really trying to demo them, especially the MTSKC, even if I have to fly to LA or somewhere.):

Need to demo the following Hammer Strength:

PLPO (Pullover )
PLLR (Lateral raise)
ILKLC (Iso-lateral kneeling leg curl)
MTSKC (MTS Kneeling Leg Curl)
ILLC (Iso-lateral leg curl, plate loaded prone)
PLSLC (Plate Loaded seated leg curl)
ILWPD (Iso-lateral wide pulldown)
V-Squat MTSVS vs the V-Squat PLVSQ

Updated Definite List:


ILHBP Iso-Lateral Horizontal Press
MTSAB Abdominal crunch
ILSP Plate loaded shoulder press
PLBI Seated Biceps

Probable: MTSKC (MTS Kneeling Leg Curl)
Probable: PLPO (Pullover)


The good news is that the famous FLEX FITNESS HAMFLEXOR and FLEX FITNESS Prone Leg Curl is still available new thru Star Trac. Apparently all of the biomechanics are the same. If you look at the Star Trac website they look identical. My goal was to compare the HAMMER STRENGTH Kneeling Leg Curl to the HAMFLEXOR (Now Star Trac) Kneeling Leg Curl.

Here is what I purchased so far:

ELITE FTS Collegiate Power Rack

Elite FTS Colegiate 0-90 Bench

SORINEX HURRICANE

Elite FTS PRO Glute Ham Raise

Elite FTS Olympic EZ Spring Collar - A-TOZC-1/2

EFS - Hanging Ab Straps - A-EFSAB

EFS Rickshaw

Texas Power Bar

Spud Inc. Dip Belt - A-SPUDDIP

Rack Dip Attachment - DSWS-DIP 3x3 Frame Attachment

William Strength signature military dumbell bench

(2) custom 3 tiered William Strength pro dumbbell racks to hold 24 pr dumbells.

Dumbells: I decided on Troy Solid Rubber and Solid Urethane:

The TSD-R (12 sided rubber db) 10-100, 110, & 120 then TSD-U (12 sided urethane) 130, 140, & 150. The handles on the TSD-R are 30 mm for 5-50, 32 mm 55-75, 80 & above the handles are 34 mm. All handles on the TSD-U (any size) is 34 mm. So you would have 34 mm handles on all db’s 80 lbs. and above.

TSDR – 12 Sided Rubber Encased Dumbbell

10 -100 (5 lb increments), 110, 120

TSDU – 12 Sided Urethane Encased Dumbbell

130 -
140 -
150 -

Those last three are expensive!

And plates, the commercial grade troy interlocking... for 45, 35, 25, 10, 5 ....

I also got the Ivanko 6' curl bar coming at some point as well.


In any case, I'm looking for anything I might of missed!! Any otehr ideas please let me know. I'm thinking of going with the Williams Strength Signature decline bench but would like to know if their is anything else I should consider.

Doesn't seem to be any Power- Lift stuff on this thread. Looks good also...

Looking for more suggestions on the best pieces of all time!!

Some great pieces of equipment in there for sure,but for a home gym the restrictions are usualyy cash and space so the best bet is usually investing in pieces such as functional trainers as opposed to a lateral machine,pec fly, extention machine etc. Multi-purpose is the aim of the game unless you have money to burn and a spare warehouse sized shed.

And yes, plates cost a mint!!!Probably the most overlooked and expensive aspect of setting up any gym.

[meatheadio]

I love Hammer Strength equipment but when I tried the plate loaded pullover, I just couldnt feel it. Couldnt get my elbows secure on the pads.

I found the same with the HS one. One I did like a fair but was the new Nautilis Pullover machine. Its very smooth and has a solid amount of weight to play with whichI liked. Also has a dirty big belt to hold you in place and the seat was height adjustable, probably the biggest improvement to allow for different heighted people whilst keeping the pivot point of the machine and the body inline.

Another piece I LOVE is the Nautilus Plate Loaded Pulldown machine. The first time I tried this was at Golds Venice and it blew me away. The handles are very versatile and allow for so many different variations. Great piece.

[Quadsweep]

Which pieces stand out though?

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Products.aspx Every leg peice they have is the best of its kind. The leg press and hack squats especially. Now a hard ass leg piece is the Paramount Total Leg. It will fuck your legs up!


Jeff

[HealthNutMD]

7Xj2SnFxvzU

This, by Pioneer. This was filmed at my old gym in Tulsa Oklahoma (not me in the video) They also have this for dumbells that slide forward, and bars on the side just incase you get trapped at the bottom. To date I haven't seen anything to beat this.

This equipment totally rocks!


That is really good... hmmm... Those dumbell assists are realyl good. Sorinex makes one as well, but the Pioneer seems really advanced.

[HealthNutMD]

What plates do you guys recommend? I was thinking of possibly paying more money and going to the IVANKO EZ Grip (revolver looking) plates instead of the Troy machined grip plate. Any thoughts? Which are better for piling in your lap for dips across two benches? What about dip belt triceps?


I was going to drive 1.5 hours tomorrow to go demo that Pullover from Hammer Strength... now I'm having second thoughts.


I demoed the Body Masters Pullover and the Hammer Strength Kneeling MTS Leg Curl and did not like either one!!


I went ahead and put an order in today for the Star Track kneeling Leg Curl and the Prone leg curl machines (as I mentioned they were identical to the Flex Fitness versions.

Not sure why the text is coming out like this... Not intentional. I'm aslo half asleep from working on this project too much lately.

[HealthNutMD]

When you are spening this kind of money, its amazing how many subtleties you learn about equipment. The Hammer Strength Kneeling leg curl had no adjustments for position of the leg pad. The leg pad would climb half way up my calf during the movement. Also, I could do the complete 150 lb stack for about 5 reps. Considering this machine retails for about 4,500.00, I'm glad I demoed it.

On the other hand, I demoed the Star Trac kneeling leg curl which is amazing and identical to the Flex Fitness model. Not only is the Star Trac (bought Flex Fitness about 6 year ago) the most natural motion, There is about 1/3rd of the stack left which is too heavy for me. People rave over the years, even those that only do deadlifts, how good the Flex Fitness HAMFLEXOR is. In any case, Star Trac has kept it the same. They added lock and load buttons and changed some minor cosmetics, but I can assure you it is the same exact machine. I tried both side by side.

That being said, they also make the best Prone (lying down) leg curl as well and have kept it the same as the prior Flex Fitness model. I'll be submitting orders for these two Star Trac models today. 10 weeks lead time though. After December, they will be manufacturing all Star Trac equipment in China and closing the California factories in Irvine.

I guess I'll demo the Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Pullover (1.5 hour drive) at some point over the next couple days. That wraps it up for my demoes and I can then put together the final machines I like. The ETS Pro Glute Ham raise is nice, came 2 days ago.


Do you guys like the plate loaded Hammer Strength preacher curl?

If you guys know of any other brands or cost no object pieces that you've come across over the years at any facility, please let me know. I think my next goal is to start finding out all about what equipment trade shows are around.

[meatheadio]

What plates do you guys recommend? I was thinking of possibly paying more money and going to the IVANKO EZ Grip (revolver looking) plates instead of the Troy machined grip plate. Any thoughts? Which are better for piling in your lap for dips across two benches? What about dip belt triceps?



I was going to drive 1.5 hours tomorrow to go demo that Pullover from Hammer Strength... now I'm having second thoughts.


I demoed the Body Masters Pullover and the Hammer Strength Kneeling MTS Leg Curl and did not like either one!!


I went ahead and put an order in today for the Star Track kneeling Leg Curl and the Prone leg curl machines (as I mentioned they were identical to the Flex Fitness versions.



Not sure why the text is coming out like this... Not intentional. I'm aslo half asleep from working on this project too much lately.

I have found that plates on the thinner side are far more versatile.I have been to gyms with real thick plates (such as gold venice,I think they have the Gpi ones) and the 45's would have to be 50mm thick. This is a real pain in the ass when loading up a leg press etc and you cant fit much weight on. They are also a prick to load for things like deads,bent rows etc as they get stuck easily and their thickness provides alot of resistance when sliding them on a bar (picky I know but you'll be spending thousands on these plates and will have them for decades most likely so they better be good).
Also, the ruber coated weights (in addition to being more expensive) stick to your clothes on things like t bar rows,weighted dips and chins etc. Not a major dilemma but a pain in the ass.
The Troy plates are pretty good. Our gym (there are two locations) actually had all thier plates custom made. They are black steel ones that look the same as the standard barbell ones but have the gym name instead of 'standard barbell' which is pretty nifty. No clue how much this cost as this was some years ago and not sure if this is a possibility.

If looking for a pullover,the newer version of the Nautilus model is great if they're still available as they aren't too wide in the elbow pads (but can still fit a solid 300pounder) and the seat is height adjustable.

[meatheadio]

When you are spening this kind of money, its amazing how many subtleties you learn about equipment. The Hammer Strength Kneeling leg curl had no adjustments for position of the leg pad. The leg pad would climb half way up my calf during the movement. Also, I could do the complete 150 lb stack for about 5 reps. Considering this machine retails for about 4,500.00, I'm glad I demoed it.

On the other hand, I demoed the Star Trac kneeling leg curl which is amazing and identical to the Flex Fitness model. Not only is the Star Trac (bought Flex Fitness about 6 year ago) the most natural motion, There is about 1/3rd of the stack left which is too heavy for me. People rave over the years, even those that only do deadlifts, how good the Flex Fitness HAMFLEXOR is. In any case, Star Trac has kept it the same. They added lock and load buttons and changed some minor cosmetics, but I can assure you it is the same exact machine. I tried both side by side.

That being said, they also make the best Prone (lying down) leg curl as well and have kept it the same as the prior Flex Fitness model. I'll be submitting orders for these two Star Trac models today. 10 weeks lead time though. After December, they will be manufacturing all Star Trac equipment in China and closing the California factories in Irvine.

I guess I'll demo the Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Pullover (1.5 hour drive) at some point over the next couple days. That wraps it up for my demoes and I can then put together the final machines I like. The ETS Pro Glute Ham raise is nice, came 2 days ago.


Do you guys like the plate loaded Hammer Strength preacher curl?

If you guys know of any other brands or cost no object pieces that you've come across over the years at any facility, please let me know. I think my next goal is to start finding out all about what equipment trade shows are around.

If you havnt got one yet check out the Nautilis Pulldown machine. I think its part of the Nitro line.They have a plate and pin loaded version of the same machine. I personally preferred the plate loaded version (and I assume it'b be cheaper) but the pin loaded version was great also.
Nautilis also have a great rowing machine called the Nautlis XP Load-great feel and allows for a range of row variations.

[meatheadio]

If you havnt got one yet check out the Nautilis Pulldown machine. I think its part of the Nitro line.They have a plate and pin loaded version of the same machine. I personally preferred the plate loaded version (and I assume it'b be cheaper) but the pin loaded version was great also.
Nautilis also have a great rowing machine called the Nautlis XP Load-great feel and allows for a range of row variations.


Photo of the Nautilis XP Load:

[HealthNutMD]

I'll try to demo those Nautilus units... I know that the Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Iso-Lateral Rowing machine is a penis pinched once you put on 4+ plates per side... That bar between the legs that the seat moves up and down on.

[HealthNutMD]

Some great pieces of equipment in there for sure,but for a home gym the restrictions are usualyy cash and space so the best bet is usually investing in pieces such as functional trainers as opposed to a lateral machine,pec fly, extention machine etc. Multi-purpose is the aim of the game unless you have money to burn and a spare warehouse sized shed.

And yes, plates cost a mint!!!Probably the most overlooked and expensive aspect of setting up any gym.

What plates do you guys recommed?

http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZH-45lg.gif


or http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZS-45lg.gif

or???

[HealthNutMD]

I have found that plates on the thinner side are far more versatile.I have been to gyms with real thick plates (such as gold venice,I think they have the Gpi ones) and the 45's would have to be 50mm thick. This is a real pain in the ass when loading up a leg press etc and you cant fit much weight on. They are also a prick to load for things like deads,bent rows etc as they get stuck easily and their thickness provides alot of resistance when sliding them on a bar (picky I know but you'll be spending thousands on these plates and will have them for decades most likely so they better be good).
Also, the ruber coated weights (in addition to being more expensive) stick to your clothes on things like t bar rows,weighted dips and chins etc. Not a major dilemma but a pain in the ass.
The Troy plates are pretty good. Our gym (there are two locations) actually had all thier plates custom made. They are black steel ones that look the same as the standard barbell ones but have the gym name instead of 'standard barbell' which is pretty nifty. No clue how much this cost as this was some years ago and not sure if this is a possibility.


I agree, the thinner the better so you can load more plates on. Just waiting to hear which ones you guys recommend/

[HealthNutMD]

Nebula - http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209033230.jpg
http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209032843.jpg


I'm thinking about getting the Nebula seated press if I can fit it though the sliding doors. However, they also make an ISO version with the legs separate. Any opinions on this? Would you rather have the ISO version or the Single Plate version?

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Product.aspx?Product=5&ProductLine=1&Category=25&SubCategory=54


http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209033009.jpg

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/040209082947.jpg

[HealthNutMD]

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Contact.aspx

Their contact number doesn't work anymore... did they go out of buisness?

[meatheadio]

I'm thinking about getting the Nebula seated press if I can fit it though the sliding doors. However, they also make an ISO version with the legs separate. Any opinions on this? Would you rather have the ISO version or the Single Plate version?

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Product.aspx?Product=5&ProductLine=1&Category=25&SubCategory=54


http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/160209033009.jpg


http://www.nebula-fitness.com/assets/images/product/large/040209082947.jpg
Those Iso lateral presses are the mustard. The ones I have seen can either be iso lateral or it locks together for a regular leg press. They're enormous!!!
If you can fit one in they're a great addition. There's one at a gym near me that is iso lateral like that,but holds roughly 2000kg (4400lb)!!!.Very useful leg press,couldnt kill this thing if you tried.

The good thing about those Nautilis back pieces if they fit ALOT of weight. Even with those big fat rubber coated 50mm thick plates it still fitted 4 45lb plates with ease. A regular thickness plate on their and you'd easily fit 6 or 7 a side so they cater for the very strong which is always handy

[meatheadio]

What plates do you guys recommed?

http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZH-45lg.gif


or http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZS-45lg.gif

or???
I like the look of the top ones the best. As long as they're all the same the plates look good. A gym full of standard barbell plates looks good because they're all the same. That being said you want something that is going to look good with the colour scheme of the equipment and the building.
Cant answer that one for you. I have found that black plates are the most versatile as they work with alot of colours, they dont date (black is always 'in') and they can take a beating. Black plates never seem to look to old.
That may have sounded a bit gay but you want the gym theme to be consistent. The theme/colours should be reflective of the target market. Eg-my gym is all black equipment and plates with red upholestery. This doesnt really appeal to females and the typical fitness crew, but its a fair meatheads gym and to be honest the owners lcouldnt give a fuck about being 'popular',they made a facility where people could train hard. This is limiting the appeal of the gym however.

[HealthNutMD]

NK Sports Group/Nebula Tom Eilerman - PresidentAddress:105 Francis St.Russia,Oh 45363Telephone:
Address: 105 Francis St.
Russia,Oh 45363
Telephone:
800-763-2852 / 937-526-5411
Fax: 937-526-9411
Email: [email protected]

[mixuga]

http://www.nebula-fitness.com/Contact.aspx

Their contact number doesn't work anymore... did they go out of buisness?
There done. I had ordered a few pieces from them back in February. After a couple of months I still hadn't received my equipment. I called Tom E. the owner many times trying to find out what the delay was about. Every time he had a new excuse, so I told him I was going to cancel the order. Then the truth came out, he told the company was filing for bankruptcy and that was that. Thankfully I used a credit card to place the order and was able to reverse the charges (lesson learned!). My opinion of Tom E. is very low in that he lied to me over and over again about what was really going on with his company. I do have a Nebula Smith machine and a flat incline dumbell bench that was delivered about a year ago which is currently in storage. I was thinking about opening up a personal training studio which never came to fruition. If anyone's interested in purchasing this equipment, which is no longer being made which is in brand new condition, please PM me. Asking $3,000 for the Smith (paid $3,800 with shipping) and $650 for the bench (paid $880 with shipping). Non-negotiable!

[getcarved]

I like hammer incline press, I like the low row, I like the high row OK, I don't like the lying leg curl - unfortunately that's all my gym has. I don't like the shoulder press much either. But overall, hammer is great for some machines. I think it really depends on your structure and how the machine fits you, not the brand...then again, some machines just suck! lol!

[HealthNutMD]

There done. I had ordered a few pieces from them back in February. After a couple of months I still hadn't received my equipment. I called Tom E. the owner many times trying to find out what the delay was about. Every time he had a new excuse, so I told him I was going to cancel the order. Then the truth came out, he told the company was filing for bankruptcy and that was that. Thankfully I used a credit card to place the order and was able to reverse the charges (lesson learned!). My opinion of Tom E. is very low in that he lied to me over and over again about what was really going on with his company. I do have a Nebula Smith machine and a flat incline dumbell bench that was delivered about a year ago which is currently in storage. I was thinking about opening up a personal training studio which never came to fruition. If anyone's interested in purchasing this equipment, which is no longer being made which is in brand new condition, please PM me. Asking $3,000 for the Smith (paid $3,800 with shipping) and $650 for the bench (paid $880 with shipping). Non-negotiable!

Sorry to hear that.... Looks like we gotta find a new seated press king. Maybe the William Strength/ Elite FTS Pro?

Thanks for verifying the info.

Also, TK Star was also mentioned in this thread. I was going to pick up the extreme handles: http://www.tkstar.com/04tkextreme/tkxtreme.html

Unfortunately, the phone is disconnected. I guess they went out of buisness also. :(

[HealthNutMD]

I dunno, Maybe this is a runner up to the Nebula? ???

http://www.flexcart.com/members/elitefts/default.asp?m=PD&cid=167&pid=1376

http://www.flexcart.com/members/elitefts/leg-press-400.jpg

[HealthNutMD]

This is what I have left on the definite purchase list:

1) Hammer Strength Abdominal Crunch - MTSAB
2) Hammer Strength Iso-Lateral Horizontal Press - ILHBP
3) Hammer Stength Iso-Lateral Shoulder Press - ILSP
4) Hammer Strength seated biceps = PLBI
5) Star Trac Impact LNL kneeling leg curl, Model 9LL-S1311
6) Star Trac Impact LNL Leg Curl, Model 9LL-S1301
7) Tricep: Cybex VR 4825 Arm Extension vs. Cybex Eagle 11080 Arm Extension vs. Free Motion tricep (still trying to demo the latter 2 soon)

8) Louis Simmons Reverse Hyperextension Ultra.

9) 2 pairs of 100 lb plates (400lbs)
6 pairs of 45 lb. plates (540lbs)
2 pairs of 35 lb plates. (140lbs)
2 pairs of 25 lb plates (100lbs)
2 pairs of 10 lb plates. (40lbs)
1 pair of 5 lb plates. (10lbs)
1 pair of 2.5 lb plates. (5lbs)

Ivanko Ez grip vs Troy Machined Grip vs other suggesion.

10) Dumbells: Complete set 5 - 125 (plus the 8 and 12 lb rubber) rubber encased Troy. 130, 140, 150 Urethane encased Troy.

11) Ivanko EZ curl bar 6' length

12) Accessories: Tricep Rope TR-29, Tricep V bar TVB-12, Multi purpose Bar: MPB-11

Additional considerations:

1) Precor/Icarian Standing Leg Curl 607 (seen these on EBAY and have one at my old gym... I like them).

2) Nebula Fitness Leg Press (looks bleak now unless used)

3) Hammer Strength PLPO Plate Loaded Pullover. (A lot of love or hate with this (going to demo today).

[HealthNutMD]

I like hammer incline press, I like the low row, I like the high row OK, I don't like the lying leg curl - unfortunately that's all my gym has. I don't like the shoulder press much either. But overall, hammer is great for some machines. I think it really depends on your structure and how the machine fits you, not the brand...then again, some machines just suck! lol!


Yes, a lot of machines suck... lots of effort to find the good ones. Which hammer shoulder press don't you like? They have 2: the MTS selectorized on with a weight stack, and a plate loaded one that is where you are laying on an incline and push backwards.

Anyone know www.rogersathletic.com (http://www.rogersathletic.com) they have a bunch of good stuff, but not sure how good.

Check these out also: http://www.rogersathletic.com/strength_training/pendulum_products.asp

or www.power-lift.com (http://www.power-lift.com) ?

They have some good products.

[Sledge]

What plates do you guys recommed?

http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZH-45lg.gif


or http://ivankobarbell.com/Photo/OMEZS-45lg.gif

or???

Those plates are great. either one is fine. I have some Australian barbell company rubber coated plates and Hammer strength rubber coated plates and dumbbells. But I have an concrete floor so the rubber coated plates are necessary.

[HealthNutMD]

Damn, Nebula and TK Star out of buisness.

[HealthNutMD]

Remember the "STRIVE" Machines Bill Phillips used to have in his huge Gym at the Muscle Media 2000 headquarters in Colorado? Strive was some cool stuff MM2K pushed it hard. What ever happened to Phillips mega facility he built? Is it still there? Man that place was sweet!

I demoed a lot of Strive machines today at various Gold's Gyms, also demoed a lot of equipment today from spending the entire day gym hopping all around northern California. Will post some pics when I get a chance.

[Scott Stevenson]

Remember the "STRIVE" Machines Bill Phillips used to have in his huge Gym at the Muscle Media 2000 headquarters in Colorado? Strive was some cool stuff MM2K pushed it hard. What ever happened to Phillips mega facility he built? Is it still there? Man that place was sweet!

Ditto on the Strive stuff, both selectorized and the Plate Loaded.

-S

[Gregzs]

Sorry to hear that.... Looks like we gotta find a new seated press king. Maybe the William Strength/ Elite FTS Pro?

Thanks for verifying the info.

Also, TK Star was also mentioned in this thread. I was going to pick up the extreme handles: http://www.tkstar.com/04tkextreme/tkxtreme.html

Unfortunately, the phone is disconnected. I guess they went out of buisness also. :(

Email TK Star to confirm that. I emailed him about 6 weeks ago and got responses.

[HealthNutMD]

Email TK Star to confirm that. I emailed him about 6 weeks ago and got responses.

The email got bounced back and all the numbers don't work... I would love to be wrong. All of those extreme handles look great.

I tried everythign on the contact us area of the website. If you have the email address you used, let me know and I'll try it.

Thank-you.

Looking forward to posting some pics... just too tired tonight.

[HealthNutMD]

Hopefully Strive is still in buisness, seems like all the good guys are going out. I hate all the new machines since the range of motion is way too limited (too safe), and on the selectorized stuff, you can do the whole stack for 15-20 reps. I have yet to find a single HOIST machine I like. They all seem like garbage everytime I try a hoist machine.
Here is the Bicep:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p101/index.htm

I liked the tricep as well.

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p101/images/P101_NEW.png

I tried the plate loaded AND the selectorized version today... I think the stack was actually heavy though.


This Plate loaded piece looks like it might be good. Seems like it would be hard to go wrong with this piece:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p103/index.htm

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p103/images/P103_NEW.png


http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p104/images/P104_NEW.png

Interesting pulldown.
Wish I could demo this stuff, you just don't see it anywhere... I'll be making some calls tomorrow for sure.

Sweet plate loaded incline... I like the looks of this much better than that incline from Hammer:

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p120/images/P120_NEW.png

Nice looking seated row. I don;t like the Hammer Strength Iso Lateral Rowing Plate Loaded once you get up to 4+ plates, it becomes a penis pincher when you get pulled in to the bar the seat goes up and down on.
This looks like it might be a good choice:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p121/images/P121_NEW.png

Check out this potential winner of a badass machine, the EXTREME ROW:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p122/images/P122_NEW.png

Interesting leg press:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p108/images/P108.png

[meatheadio]

Hopefully Strive is still in buisness, seems like all the good guys are going out. I hate all the new machines since the range of motion is way too limited (too safe), and on the selectorized stuff, you can do the whole stack for 15-20 reps. I have yet to find a single HOIST machine I like. They all seem like garbage everytime I try a hoist machine.
Here is the Bicep:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p101/index.htm

I liked the tricep as well.

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p101/images/P101_NEW.png

I tried the plate loaded AND the selectorized version today... I think the stack was actually heavy though.


This Plate loaded piece looks like it might be good. Seems like it would be hard to go wrong with this piece:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p103/index.htm

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p103/images/P103_NEW.png


http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p104/images/P104_NEW.png

Interesting pulldown.
Wish I could demo this stuff, you just don't see it anywhere... I'll be making some calls tomorrow for sure.

Sweet plate loaded incline... I like the looks of this much better than that incline from Hammer:

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p120/images/P120_NEW.png

Nice looking seated row. I don;t like the Hammer Strength Iso Lateral Rowing Plate Loaded once you get up to 4+ plates, it becomes a penis pincher when you get pulled in to the bar the seat goes up and down on.
This looks like it might be a good choice:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p121/images/P121_NEW.png

Check out this potential winner of a badass machine, the EXTREME ROW:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p122/images/P122_NEW.png

Interesting leg press:
http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p108/images/P108.png
Those look like some sweet pieces of equipment. The strive pieces seem good,have heard good things about them from those who have them.
What I like about these pieces is the multiple points for loading plates. The different plate pegs provide a different resistance and in essence change the length of the moment arm for the movement,thus making it harder or easier based on which peg the plates are on. This is great as it caters to a large range of strength levels.
PS-Big fan if the Strive leg extension is you can find one-very smooth and the most natural feeling extension around. If not the biggest fan of extensions (will never replace squat variations), however this one felt very smooth and didnt seem to torque the knee at all like most older extensions do.

[Ymir]

Free weights for me, most pressing machines tear my shoulders to shreds including smith machine.

For rows tho, I like hammerstrenght one arm plateloaded machines.

[HealthNutMD]

Those look like some sweet pieces of equipment. The strive pieces seem good,have heard good things about them from those who have them.
What I like about these pieces is the multiple points for loading plates. The different plate pegs provide a different resistance and in essence change the length of the moment arm for the movement,thus making it harder or easier based on which peg the plates are on. This is great as it caters to a large range of strength levels.
PS-Big fan if the Strive leg extension is you can find one-very smooth and the most natural feeling extension around. If not the biggest fan of extensions (will never replace squat variations), however this one felt very smooth and didnt seem to torque the knee at all like most older extensions do.

I called today... I'm supposed to get some pricing info and also some places I can demo...

Here is the plate loaded Leg extension:

http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p105/index.htm


http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/plateloaded/p105/images/P105.png


Vs. Selectorized:


http://www.strivefit.com/strivefit/products/selectorized/adult/s105/images/S-105.jpg

[meatheadio]

The plate loaded kills the pin loaded unit,and you could probably assume it'd be cheaper too since you aren't paying for a weight stack,tracks etc. Much simpler (and cheaper) to construct.

[Suave_Howss]

YouTube - mr.o 2007 jay cutler entrena con powertech

POWERTECH ahahhhahha. This commercial is hilarious.

[HealthNutMD]

Got 3 gyms given to me by the rep to demo all the Strive pieces. I'll check them out this weekend....

[DanicaFan]

My favorite are the Hammer Strength equipment. I just wish a gym that was nearby had them.

[HealthNutMD]

Got word back Wednesday from Lifefitness representative. I was able to get an additional 20% off an already discounted price for purchasing 5 units. The price was not too much more than a refurb, so I puled the trigger (with piece of mind and convenience). I found out that the ISO Military Bench press was renamed to the Iso-lateral Super Incline Press. I purchased that also. So as of today. In addditon to the two Star trac Leg curl machines previously posted and ordered:

5 Hammer Strength Units:
MTS selectorized Ab Crunch
Iso lateral Horizontal Bench Press
Iso Lateral Shoulder Press
Iso-lateral Super Incline Press
Plate Loaded Bicep

Next up: Post some pics of my gym tours; demo the Strive Plate Loaded and see how that goes; checking out leg presses and possibly a Neptune Leg press used (since they are out of buisness).

[HealthNutMD]

I'm not sure how much diffference there is between this older iso Military press and the newer piece, the Iso-lateral Super Incline Press .

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2775911&d=1287033312

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2775931&d=1287033259

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2775951&d=1287033343


Newer piece looks similar, but is has some differences for sure:
http://www.lifefitness.com/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/isolateralupperbody/isolateralsuperinclinepress.html

http://www.lifefitness.com/static/cms_workspace/products/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/CS-HSPL_ILFMP-enlarge.jpg

[meatheadio]

The super incline is damn steep. Is this beast meant to be an incline press,or more of a shoulder press?It feels more like a hybrid of the two. Im not a fan of the seat on the hammer strength pieces, its so big its hard to feel grounded on it. Makes you feel like a little kid on the big seat. Other than that they are a great equipment line. I like the pivot equipment too, a bit more cost effective and hard to break since most pivot on one axis.
Looks like you're getting a pretty sweet collection of equipment, I wish I had a gym that well equipped to train at!!!

[Bob Bonham]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives

[Gregzs]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives

Is Tom in the Canton Ohio area? I have noticed these heavy duty pieces online lately.

http://columbus.craigslist.org/spo/1955876512.html

http://columbus.craigslist.org/spo/1955894955.html

[getcarved]

Yes, a lot of machines suck... lots of effort to find the good ones. Which hammer shoulder press don't you like? They have 2: the MTS selectorized on with a weight stack, and a plate loaded one that is where you are laying on an incline and push backwards.

Anyone know www.rogersathletic.com (http://www.rogersathletic.com) they have a bunch of good stuff, but not sure how good.

Check these out also: http://www.rogersathletic.com/strength_training/pendulum_products.asp

or www.power-lift.com (http://www.power-lift.com) ?

They have some good products.


Plate loaded, puts my shoulders in a bind. When I lived in florida, there were several machines I liked - what are the free range of motion type machines? There are like 10 of them...I liked some of those, cant remember the brand.

[LATS]

BOB IS RIGHT ABOUT TK.. order your piece.. send the money and wait until you forget..lol great machines though.. as far as leverage equip.. i have hammer and flex in my home gym.. if hammer would make the start points adjust that would improve already great machines.. but the flex (star trac now) has great adjustability and great feel.. toss up really..

nebula was great.. had them in the gym i own.. but way over priced.. essentially limited their market.. too bad..

[HealthNutMD]

http://www.atomicathletic.com/store/images/products/d_437.JPG



http://www.atomicathletic.com/store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=D337



Anyone have experience with this machine? I'm looking for a good row machine that isn't a penis pincher (like the hammer strength row which is awesome until you put 4+ plates on it (per side)).

[HealthNutMD]

BOB IS RIGHT ABOUT TK.. order your piece.. send the money and wait until you forget..lol great machines though.. as far as leverage equip.. i have hammer and flex in my home gym.. if hammer would make the start points adjust that would improve already great machines.. but the flex (star trac now) has great adjustability and great feel.. toss up really..

nebula was great.. had them in the gym i own.. but way over priced.. essentially limited their market.. too bad..

I got a hold of the owner of TK Star on the phone... we talked a little while. I had no idea he had that bad a rep.

Agreed that hammer needs more adjustments.

[HealthNutMD]

http://www.rogersathletic.com/content/pendulum_products/upper_body/images/athree-way-row.jpg

http://www.rogersathletic.com/strength_training/pendulum_products/pendulum_upper.asp?pid=318


Hmmm... Would be nice to find a great row machine, still don't know any I'm crazy about. Above is another I'd like to demo.

[HealthNutMD]

http://www.lifefitness.com/static/cms_workspace/products/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/lowerbodytorso/CS-HSPL_PLSHC-enlarge.jpg


Anyone recommend this calf piece?


http://www.lifefitness.com/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/lowerbodytorso/superhorizontalcalf.html

[HealthNutMD]

http://www.advancedexercise.com/catalog/products/Hammer-Strength-Plate%252dLoaded-Iso%252dLateral-D.Y.-Row.html#


Anyone try the Dorian Yates Row?

[HealthNutMD]

Anyone try this seated calf machine? Anyone have a favorite seated calf machine?

http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-4.jpg[/URL]

http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-2.jpg[URL="http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-2.jpg2.jpg"] (http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-4.jpg)

[Sledge]

http://www.lifefitness.com/static/cms_workspace/products/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/lowerbodytorso/CS-HSPL_PLSHC-enlarge.jpg


Anyone recommend this calf piece?


http://www.lifefitness.com/commercial/hammerstrength/plateloaded/lowerbodytorso/superhorizontalcalf.html


The Gym I used to train at had one instead of standing or seated calf raise. I hated it. I'd much prefer just a plain old standing or seated calf machine. Even calf raises on a 45o leg press were better than that thing.

[Whey Hey]

Here in the UK, Pullum Sports and Hampton Weight Plates (Eleiko too). :) (http://www.musclechronicle.com)

[TPT]

Anyone care for or use the Freemotion stuff?

http://fitnessdepotaz.com/images/Free-motion.gif

http://www.anytimempls.com/images/gear/freemotion_squat.jpg

http://www.gymcompany.co.uk/_images/uploads/resized/550-1232022427-f527ddb84a8aabb.png

[HealthNutMD]

Ive tried both versions of the Free Motion SQUAT, the SELECTORIZED (middle picture) and the PLATE LOADED not shown above but is at my current gym. They are both very good. I would not kick that free motion squat machine out of bed. I like it. There ae a lot of those kinds of machines around, I'm not sure which one is best though.

I'm wondering if I should by that seated calf (and tibia) plate loaded machine from Sorinex.

[HealthNutMD]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives


Checking out Altantis website, interesting stuff:

http://www.atlantis-fit.com/en/

[HealthNutMD]

Another view from their website of their plate loaded row... looks nice:


http://www.atlantis-fit.com/Medias/Product/100/D-437.png

[HealthNutMD]

Hopefully I can find a Nebula seated leg press used

:wiggle:

[HealthNutMD]

Anyone try this seated calf machine? Anyone have a favorite seated calf machine?

http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-4.jpg

http://store.sorinex.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CT-1-2.jpg



I pulled the trigger today and added this to my Hurricane order, although they will arrive seperately of course. Hopefully I made a good decision cause its not like I can demo it.... seemed like a good seated calf and also has the tibia part as well. :dunno: Either way its paid for. Expecting the Hurricane in about 3 weeks, already waited 3 weeks. This piece probably 4 weeks total my guess.

[HealthNutMD]

Every leg peice they have is the best of its kind. The leg press and hack squats especially. Now a hard ass leg piece is the Paramount Total Leg. It will fuck your legs up!


Jeff


Jeff, you talking about this?

[Ryan Wacht]

Does anyone still make pullover machines? I used to love the old nautilus ones, but can't seem to find them at most gyms anymore..

[HealthNutMD]

I've been trying to demo the Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Pullover, hard to find. I could buy one, since I just made a deal with Life Fitness, but no way am I going to do that without a demo... lots of love hat with that machine. Some love it, some hate it.

I have some pics in my cell phone of a plate loaded nautilus pullover that you could have loaded 1000 lbs on... too tired to post all these photos.

[doubleogordo]

can't forget the leg blaster
http://www.davedraper.com/fusionbb/fbbuploads/med_1268754337-Leg_Blaster_Finish_3_with_FrankZane2004sm.jpg

[getcarved]

Anyone care for or use the Freemotion stuff?

http://fitnessdepotaz.com/images/Free-motion.gif

http://www.anytimempls.com/images/gear/freemotion_squat.jpg

http://www.gymcompany.co.uk/_images/uploads/resized/550-1232022427-f527ddb84a8aabb.png


Thats it! Thats what I was talking about, I've gotten some serious pumps on those machines. I wish my gym would invest in some, I think they are quality - granted I havent used them all, but the ones I used I really liked.

[Gregzs]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives


http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170550220550&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNAFP:US:1123

[GeneticFr3ak]

you want to build serious muscle?

Use POWER-TEC!

[HealthNutMD]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170550220550&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNAFP:US:1123


Conneticut... not even close, oh well. Still trying to locate a Nebula Laeg Press.

[HealthNutMD]

you want to build serious muscle?

Use POWER-TEC!


Power Tec maks something that is best in class? Like what piece?

[HealthNutMD]

Anyone interested in this thread might be interested in this one:

Cost No Object Machines and Free Weights, the Best of the Best - Bodybuilding.com Forums

[Gregzs]

Conneticut... not even close, oh well. Still trying to locate a Nebula Laeg Press.

Close? It's a warehouse. They can ship. There are some Hammer Strength pieces there as well.

[MITM]

Does anyone still make pullover machines? I used to love the old nautilus ones, but can't seem to find them at most gyms anymore..

I had no intention of uploading this vid to yt, but after getting your pm and seeing as you live so close by, you should come train at my gym. :) We have a nice pullover machine made by Hammer Strength :)

YouTube - The Hawk - Pullovers (Warmup)


p.s. to the mods.. I won't be publishing many vids on here, it's just didn't have any pics of the machine. And I don't look my best -- fat people always prefer to wear black, but it was laundry day for me. :yep:

[Gregzs]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives

I guess all that can be done now is get ahold of the old pieces and reproduce them:

Parrillo Arched Incline Bench
http://s1086.photobucket.com/albums/j444/gzs75/

[HealthNutMD]

I just got in 10 pieces of Atlantis Equipment. I have the Strive Plate Loaded leg extension coming in within 2 weeks. Cybex VR3 arm extension (tricep) will be here in about 4 weeks. Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Pullover finall ordered today. There has been a lot going on since the start of this thread. This thread here in RX Forums was very helpful and helping me get my research done for the ultimate free weights and machines. Anyone who would like this thread should catch up on the latest in this thread: http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=127962753&page=19

Lots of good stuff and your input is always appreciated.

[HealthNutMD]

I reccommend reading from the beggining. There is a ton of great info on the best of the best free weights and machines:

Cost No Object Machines and Free Weights, the Best of the Best - Bodybuilding.com Forums

[HealthNutMD]

The plate loaded kills the pin loaded unit,and you could probably assume it'd be cheaper too since you aren't paying for a weight stack,tracks etc. Much simpler (and cheaper) to construct.


This is true by the way... I now have 5 strive pieces. I love the plate loaded bicep and plate loaded leg curl.

Its all in the thread above....

[HealthNutMD]

$2,699.95 usd

Funny how the Hurricane is now about $3,999.00


I bought it and hated it... Wasn't good at anything. Fixed pivot point of the universal joints sucks. They need to be on a track. Also, the crash bar needs finer adjustments. I bough it new, demoed it, realized it sucked, and sold it for a loss on EBAY

Hurricane sucks.

[HealthNutMD]

There is another really incredible brand called Pendulum, but it's not made anymore.


They are being made, I just demoed them at USC and have 4 pieces coming first week of November.... www.rogersathletic.com

Tyler Hobson, the designer came to an agreement with Rogers Athletic a couple years back or so...

I have the Vertical Chest, Power Squat Pro, Hip Press, and Incline/Shoulder machines coming....

[drewhall]

Check out Legend Fitness, they have everything that you need in a weight room facility and they manufacture everything for Westside Barbell and Louie Simmons!

www.legendfitness.com

[HealthNutMD]

Check out Legend Fitness, they have everything that you need in a weight room facility and they manufacture everything for Westside Barbell and Louie Simmons!

www.legendfitness.com

Don't get me wrong, they make excellent items, however, NONE of the LEGEND stuff wins in a COST NO OBJECT sense. The LEVEREDGE stuff seems ok, but None of those individual pieces seem better than various pieces from: Hammer Strength, Atlantis-Fitness, MedX Avenger (can be bought by medxregeneration), Power-Lift Pro Plate Load, NEBULA FITNESS (back in business), PENDULUM (Rogers Athletic designed by Tyler Hobson), Elite FTS, UCS Spirit, etc...

In a cost no object sense, there hasn't been a single piece of LEGEND that is best in class. Again, Legend makes great stuff, but when you are looking at the best of the best for any given machine, or any given free weight, they don't have any pieces or items that get voted for best in class.

[drewhall]

I understand what you are saying, however Legend is a USA made product that is fully welded unlike most of the companies that you just named. So it is way more rigid construction and better quality product. The LeverEDGE line blows away any plate loaded stuff that I have ever used because of its adjustability, the overall design/range of motion and you can put 8-9 45 lb plates on each side. Hammer strength is a great idea but a poor quality made piece of equipment. The handles always slide off when using them on almost every piece of hammer. The damn ladder benches are nothing but a pain in the butt in every aspect and also you are very limited to the amount of weight that you can put on each side of the piece of equipment. The price of the LeverEDGE pieces is equal if not cheaper than any Hammer Strength piece out there. Definitely find out if there is some Legend Equipment in your area and go see for yourself.


http://www.legendfitness.com/products/leveredge_line.aspx

[HealthNutMD]

I understand what you are saying, however Legend is a USA made product that is fully welded unlike most of the companies that you just named.

That is BULLCRAP. Who do you work for? SHAME for spreading bullshit lies!



So it is way more rigid construction and better quality product. The LeverEDGE line blows away any plate loaded stuff that I have ever used

BULLSHIT.... You obviously work for them. And your answer is pure BS


because of its adjustability, the overall design/range of motion and you can put 8-9 45 lb plates on each side.

That is a nice feature of the LEVERedge. I do like the longer weight horns.


Hammer strength is a great idea but a poor quality made piece of equipment. The handles always slide off when using them on almost every piece of hammer.

Bull, there are adequately built and stand the test of time as much as any. I don't see welds breaking on the HAMMER line of equipment. Everybody' pads wear out after time. The main weakness in Hammer Strength is lack of ADJUSTABILITY. They have EXCELLENT biomechanics, most of them, but not all of them. And anyone who claims any entire line is good is also full of crap, and that goes with ANY line. The LeverEdge has long weight horns, and some adjustability, but BIOMECHANICS are very important. Considering they were just released and look very average biomechanically, you have to be from LEGEND to say this.


The damn ladder benches are nothing but a pain in the butt in every aspect and also you are very limited to the amount of weight that you can put on each side of the piece of equipment.

The longer weight horns are nice, but that is only one aspect. If you don't have good biomechanics, it doesn't matter. That mid row looks very mediocre. So does a lot of the LeverEDGE. It is hard to get demos of it, because nobody has it... but I can tell you the biomechanics look very mediocre... The LeverEdge high row looks interesting. I'd take a STRIVE bicep any day of the week over that Leveredge, it is not in the same league as the STRIVE bicep or STRIVE leg extension plate load. We could go on and on... When you ar etalking the BEST of the BEST category, that high row has a shot I think, but not really seeing another piece that is biomechanically impressive.


The price of the LeverEDGE pieces is equal if not cheaper than any Hammer Strength piece out there. Definitely find out if there is some Legend Equipment in your area and go see for yourself.

We discussed this at length at the www.bodybuilding.com thread. Sorry, you are a company SHILL. Would I like to demo it to see if one or two of the pieces are worthy, sure... but it is hard to have a debate with a company shill.


http://www.legendfitness.com/products/leveredge_line.aspx[/QUOTE]

[HealthNutMD]

I follow Legend on Facebook, I would buy any product I feel is best in class, but Legend never makes it onto the list. The LeverEdge has some nice features: Longer weight horns, adjustability, and great value... but if you are looking for cost no object, best in class for a given machine, I'm not really seeing anything. Like I said, the high row looks decent and may be better then the Hammer. Not everybody makes a high row, so there is less competition in that regard. The bicep is an iso machine, looks decent, but the STRIVE Bicep is superior, not even close.

We could go down the list of items, I have... I wanted to like the Legend LeverEdge, it is very affordable... but for somebdy looking at best of the best: The Rogers Athletic Pendulum Vertical chest, shoulder Incline, and their amazing lat pulldown blows the LEVEREDGE off the map... and it is made in USA (Michigan and Texas). We could go on and on... STRIVE fitness, made in Pittsburgh, with much higher quality than the LeverEDGE. Atlantis Fitness Plate loaded equipment Blows the Leveredge pieces away as well. Everything is on a piece by piece basis: cherry picking. For every piece of Leveredge I see, I see something better by another company: except for perhaps the high row.

Kudos on the longer weight horns though and adjustability, those are always desireable features.

[killerkalfs]

T K Star is out of business because he would take your money and never make the peices. Ripping every one off.
Alantis equipment from Canada is top shelve.
Those Parrillo Peices were make by Tom from Nebula.
Most would not agree but I like Keiser machines. especily for drop sets and heavy negitives

we delt with tommy j from tk for 22 years , we never heard of him ripping anyone off,?
someone sounds a little bitter?, that they do not want to make equipment any more. also when i was back east i saw alot of tk star in strong and shaply gyms,, go figure???