Forge POWER RUNNER

The POWER RUNNER is a device specifically designed to train the muscles of the lower body in a unique and functional method. It is a machine that allows the user to simulate an actual running, sprinting, or jumping movement.

The POWER RUNNER, because of its plate load capability, is capable of handling very heavy workloads. The device can be used as a leg press while the body is in a running or sprinting position. These presses are performed in an alternate motion. This simulates leg action that is more functional from an athletic standpoint.

Some of the unique features of the POWER RUNNER include:

• Training the hamstrings through hip extension rather than knee flexion (leg curls).
  - Hip extension is the manner in which the hamstring is utilized in most sports.
• Improve starting strength and acceleration.
• Improve speed through functional strength training.
• Improve anaerobic capacity and power endurance.
• Has been proven effective in rehabilitation of lower body injuries. The POWER RUNNER allows for non-impact running.

Basics

The POWER RUNNER is specifically designed to improve starting strength and acceleration. These two sport skills are crucial for sports that involve explosive power. We have designed the POWER RUNNER to specifically place and hold the body in a position of acceleration. This is the most functional position to train your athletes for strength and power development in the lower body. Let us explain why we believe this to be so.

Starting strength can be defined as the first two steps of a race or movement activity. Starting ability depends largely on reaction time and explosive strength or power. Acceleration is the period of time between starting and attaining maximum velocity (top end speed). Acceleration in a race can be described as approximately the first twelve steps. Maximum velocity is maximum speed. This is attained by world-class sprinters usually around 30 - 40 meters. Training the athlete for maximum velocity is largely neurological, and is not dependent on strength and power training. The body of the athlete is almost upright in the maximum velocity stage of the sprint. It is important for most coaches to remember this very important fact when training their athletes. In many team and individual sports maximum velocity is never attained. This is why we should train for speed differently if we are coaching a sport where our athletes seldom or never attain maximum velocity. Strength and power are most important at the start and acceleration stages of an activity. The angles of the body are different requiring the greatest amount of strength and power an athlete can attain.

The POWER RUNNER is designed to place the body in a position of acceleration (between 30 and 45 degrees). This angle allows for strength and power development in the most functional way possible.

Understanding the Mechanics of the POWER RUNNER:

• The bike pedal that is used on the POWER RUNNER allows the user to pivot to the ball of the foot which mimics the natural process of sprinting.
• The close proximity of the feet allows for improved stride simulation. Full lockout position can be attained with the thrust leg. Plate loaded capability allows the unit to be user friendly. Maxes and percentages can be used and recorded with greater ease. The ability to use exact weight is useful in progressive weight programs.
• The shoulder harness design is a unique advantage of the POWER RUNNER. This allows the user to stabilize the upper body. The trunk cannot slide up and down because it is in a fixed position. The harness is an absolute necessity when using heavy workloads.
• The close proximity of the feet allows for improved stride simulation. Full lockout position can be attained with the thrust leg. Plate loaded capability allows the unit to be user friendly. Maxes and percentages can be used and recorded with greater ease. The ability to use exact weight is useful in progressive weight programs.
• The shoulder harness design is a unique advantage of the POWER RUNNER. This allows the user to stabilize the upper body. The trunk cannot slide up and down because it is in a fixed position. The harness is an absolute necessity when using heavy workloads.

For more information on how to use the POWER RUNNER, click on Learning the Positions.