Power Assisted Exercise
What is Power Assisted Exercise?
Shapemaster power assisted exercise machines are designed to fit the contours of the body to make it a comfortable and enjoyable experience when using the machines to move the body safely and effectively through a prescribed range of motion that enables the user to move possibly in ways they have not moved before or for a long time. The machines continue to help with the range of motion and muscle toning achieved until effort can be used to work with the machines to work the muscles joints and body more aggressively.
Even passive movement on the machines if used in conjunction with the principles listed below helps the lymphatic system and the circulation. Effort is in the control of the exerciser, but with encouragement gradual and impressive results can be achieved. (see research)
The six principles of using the machines are simple but very important for our bodies:
- Concentration
- Breathing
- Centering
- Alignment
- Fluidity
- Precision
Incorporating these into the Shapemaster power assisted exercise program clients work smarter and see very quick results.
20 Benefits of Power Assisted Exercise
- Improvement in posture through strengthening the core muscle groups and readdressing muscle imbalance
- Inch loss as the muscles are lengthened and strengthened creating a leaner, longer looking body, toned and firmer
- Improved flexibility, mobility, balance and strength (see research)
- Achievement of potential, physically and mentally
- Minimise and even reverse the effects of ageing – live younger, longer
- Social environment
- More energy
- More self-esteem — feel happier and healthier
- Less injury through pulled muscles
- Better digestion and raised metabolism
- High blood pressure and cholesterol are easier to control
- Reduction of the risk of heart attacks, cardiovascular disease, lung problems, diabetes and osteoporosis
- Cope better with stress and relaxation
- Sleep better
- Assist the immune system and increase the body’s resistance to infections
- No need to dress specially - no need to shower
- Anyone can start the program even if deconditioned, disabled, or fit
- No sweat or pain
- Achieve a better body
- Have fun!
Research
Shapemaster have been pioneers of power assisted exercise since the company was formed in the mid 80’s. Our aim is to provide the most effective exercise possible by understanding how the human body responds to exercise.
In our efforts to learn more we have accessed information from:
- Physiological research data from NASA
- Research on the benefits of the machines for American Indians suffering from Diabetes
- Research from studies in the UK carried out by Universities and the medical profession/hospitals/clinics
Our own research team comprising:
- Exercise Physiologists
- Psychologists
- Rehab Centres
- Spinal Injury Clinics
- Cardio Rehab Centres
- MS Therapy Centres
- Shapemaster Studio Operators working within the health and fitness arena
The most recent study undertaken
by Oklahoma State University 2009
Assessment of the Shapemaster Easytone Exercise Program on Muscular Strength and Functional Capacity for the Elderley
Oklahoma State University has prepared an independent report commissioned by an assisted living facility in Oklahoma on the Benefits of the Shapemaster Senior Exercise Program.
Benefits of the Shapemaster Senior Exercise Program.
Seniors, 70 years old and older exercised on the Shapemaster Easytone Machines twice weekly for only 10 weeks. 7 different tests to measure their changes in strength, mobility and balance, and the improvements were recorded. The results showed tremendous benefits:
- A significant improvement in muscle strength of between 24% and 50%.
- Mobility and agility increased by 22%.
- Of particular note was the benefit in increased balance, which improved by 33%. This was most significant because seniors are more likely to fall and injure themselves, leading to reduced quality of life and premature death.
The report confirms:
- The benefit of exercise for seniors since it will promote a longer and healthier life, which will enable them to live an independent life for longer, and require less time undergoing healthcare.
- That we lose 40% to 50% of our muscle strength as we age. Muscle tissue responds to resistance training with improved strength, bone density, and dynamic balance, until we are into our 90’s.
- Physical activity retards many age-related changes and reduces the onset of many killer diseases such heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes. It improves cardiovascular function, reduces obesity and improves overall quality of life.
One of the great benefits of exercising on Shapemaster machines is that they provide a safe and friendly environment for seniors who so often would not want to exercise in a traditional gym.
The Oklahoma State University report confirms that standard fitness equipment can be intimidating and hazardous,
and the Shapemaster machines provide
a safe alternative — that is also fun!
The machines suit so many people who would never consider using a regular gym. Seniors, sufferers of MS, Fibromyalgia, Cerebral Palsy, COPD, Muscular Dystrophy, all can use the equipment successfully. People who are uncomfortable in a gym environment with weight and physical challenges find that they can be successful at exercising on the Shapemaster machines.