What are Power Reels?

The latest innovative fitness product to grace our shores has arrived. Introducing the Power Reel, and we couldn't be more excited about this dumbbell-shaped weight that can be used in almost any type of training. Pilates & Co Dave Norman explains why he loves them.

I was lucky enough to experience Power Reels first hand in a boxing class and it was a massive 'aha' moment for me as I saw its endless possibilities and applications flash before my eyes. Don't get me wrong this is not the golden ticket or magic bullet for a fitness product because nothing is but is incredibility unique and truly one of a kind. I saw applications for Power Reels in nearly every exercise class from Pilates to cycling and for rehab to home use. 

HOW DO POWER REELS WORK?

Whilst shaped like a dumbbell it uniquely has two sets of 'cords' attaching at the top and bottom of the hand grips as per the picture below.

These cords expand extend and then recoil with even tension throughout any distance that the handles are separated, limited only by one's wingspan. This constant load tension comes in 3 sizes or weights being 3lb (1.36kg), 5lb (2.27kg) and 8lb (3.63kg) and whilst these don't sound overly heavy it's the constant load that places challenge on both opposing hands but ultimately where that line of force is flexed, extended, pulled or pushed or swung. 

THE VERSATILITY OF POWER REELS

If you are anything like me and like variety in your workouts then this cool tool brings it in bucket loads and there is nothing else like it. I can do movements under load that I can't do with any other pieces of equipment so that makes it fun and novel for my body. 

I've been trialing the Power Reels, which are available for Fitbod Online, and have created a few instructional videos on Instagram showing different ways they can be used: 

A post shared by Roz & David Norman, Pilates&Co (@thenormanlife) on Nov 13, 2017 at 2:10am PST

 Today, in the fitness industry we are learning that we have more brain-body connections than we ever thought. Because of this, it is vital we challenge ourselves and our fitness in diverse ways for our body to make adaptations both externally and internally. We are learning about fascia connecting our body - the connective tissue which works in many ways to attach, protect, stabilise and separate muscles and organs. So what does this have to do with Power Reels? The fluid motions and compound free flowing movements Power Reels allow us to move in (whilst also allowing traditionally isolated contractions) enhance this co-ordination of our connective tissues. Ultimately, this gives you a better and more powerful workout.

So basically I'm saying give Power Reels a try and add it to your training. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Stay tuned for more video workouts and tips and get exploring what you can do with Power Reels.

David’s background is a sports science degree and has owned fitness equipment businesses, award-winning fitness studios and co-founded Pilates & Co. You can follow him, with wife Roz, on Instagram at The Norman Life.

Fitbod is your online resource store for all things innovative to improve your fitness, mobility, relaxation, Pilates, Crossfit, yoga, general fitness, conditioning and overall health. Personal or commercial solutions for everyone.

.