Ever since John Little and Peter Sisco coined the term: static contractions, many fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders have adopted this training protocol in their training and exercise programs. In this article, I’ll explore static contraction equipment and machines and why you should use them to achieve greater strength and muscle size in less time than you ever thought possible.



Why the need for static contraction equipment

Static contraction training, also known as SCT, has used free weights primarily for the application of its training principles. Bob Hoffman, created the Isometrics Power Rack and used this type of machine to develop Olympic weightlifters when he was the US Olympic weightlifting coach. Bruce Lee, was a big proponent of the use of static contraction equipment and employed both the Isometrics Power Rack and an isometric exerciser called the Tensolator. In this article, I’ll talk about the benefits of static contraction exercises, but if you’re familiar with isometric training, then you’ll be familiar with SCT. I’ll also talk about two of the most popular static contraction machines on the market today. Their prices vary widely and which one is right for you is really based on your bodybuilding and fitness goals.

The aerodynamic XF

This static contraction machine, the XF Streamline, was developed by Tony Reno. Before its invention, most people used SCT on the standard power rack. Mr. Reno’s invention finally allowed those people who couldn’t get to a health club or didn’t have the time to effectively use SCT at home to train with this incredible bodybuilding routine. The main drawback of this equipment is its price. Currently selling for approximately…$1500. Also, this static contraction equipment has the same drawbacks as using free weights, and if you are new to weight lifting, you may not be aware that bench press and leg press exercises are responsible for more injuries than any other exercise. So if you remove these two movements from the XF Streamline training program, you essentially have no effective chest or leg workout. This particular machine is best suited for someone who is an advanced bodybuilder and is looking for a big size. I say this mainly because of the price.

The Tensolator or Bully Xtreme Static Contraction Exercise Equipment

As I mentioned above, Bruce Lee used a device called the Tensolator. He used it to increase his punching power and speed. The benefits of this isometric exerciser is its low cost, typically less than $100 compared to the XF Streamline, which costs approximately $1500. Both exercise equipment allow you to perform many different exercises.

Bully Xtreme advertises that it can perform over 82 gym-quality exercises. One of the other advantages of this particular product is that you can use it with both static contraction and isotonic training. (If you’re not familiar with the term isotonic training, in an isotonic contraction, the tension remains unchanged and the length of the muscle changes.

In a static contraction, the angle of the joint and the length of the muscle do not change during the contraction.) The Tensolator or Bully Xtreme as it is now commonly known is best suited for people who need an inexpensive portable home gym.