August 18, 2010

Gettin Pumped!

QuickGym ROM Machine

Description: The QuickGym ROM (range of motion) Machine is a unique looking piece of exercise equipment that claims to give you a total strength, cardiovascular and flexibility workout in only 4 minutes a day – instead of 45+ minutes. While the makers suggest the machine can benefit everyone, it primarily targets the majority of the population who don’t workout regularly or are sedentary. It’s been around for 20 years but recently got some film time (product placement?) in the blockbuster, IRON MAN 2.

The machine is intricately designed with its central component being an 85-pound flywheel, which works as a braking mechanism, creating resistance based on the amount of force you produce. So the stronger you are and the faster you spin the flywheel, the more resistance is created and the more difficult the exercise becomes. The front of the QuickGym contains its upper body component, which is similar to rowing but with resistance in both movement directions. The back has its lower body component, which resembles a Stairmaster with far greater range of motion. The “4-minute” claim is based off the principle of High Intensity Interval Training (H.I.I.T.) and the theory of Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC).

The Verdict: I tried the machine out and it did prove to be a very intense 4-minutes. However, it doesn’t entirely live up to its claim. Even when performing H.I.I.T. one needs more than 4-minutes to truly reap the benefits, and the calorie-burning effect of EPOC has been largely disproved. It should also be noted that the machine, while helping build strength, will not help put on size. With a hefty price tag of $14,615 your money might be better spent on getting a gym membership – or a new car – and making the time to workout.

- http://instinctmagazine.com/web-exclusives/gettin-pumped

- http://www.quickgym.com/