Manual Lifts are without a doubt one of the most popular forms of power lifting today. In a society where power lifters and large commercial weightlifters are the norm, it is no surprise that many companies have chosen to create a product line specifically for these athletes. The following article will explore the different types of Manual Lifts, as well as how they can be used by the average person. The purpose of this article is not to sell you anything, but to simply explain the different products available, their benefits, and their appropriate application in the world of power lifting.
A Manual Lift is a self-contained power-lift that is used in sport or recreational activities. As such, it requires minimal setup time, and it can be operated with relative ease by anyone who has some basic power-lifting experience. These lifts can range from the simple (such as a basic vertical bar) to the complex (like a fully adjustable knee sleeve/knee pad combination). Manual Lifts are typically used in exercises where the objective is to perform reps with a minimal amount of weight, typically no more than 200 lbs.
A Dumbbell Lifting Manual Lift is similar to a Manual Lift, except that the weight used is not controlled by the user, but by a series of pulleys. The main distinction between a dumbbell lift and a manual lift is that one uses a pair of weights to perform a repetition of a specific weight, while the other uses the weights of the user alone. Because of the way the weights are handled, dumbbell lifts are used more often in training to bulk up rather than build muscle.
Power Equipment Manufacturers A wide variety of power equipment manufacturers have designed products specifically for the novice or professional weightlifter. The most common equipment is a pair of dumbbells (also known as barbells), which can be purchased in different sizes and weights, and can be purchased complete with a carry case and installation kit. Other equipment typically found in the gym are weight stackers, which hold several pound weights in a sturdy rack that's easy to clean. Another popular piece of weight lifting equipment is the rack flex, which holds a barbell at a specific angle so that the entire weight of the barbell is equally distributed across the chest. Other power rack manufacturers include Powertec, Home Gym USA and Safe Gym.
Multi-purpose Equipment Some weightlifting brands specialize in power equipment for multiple exercises. Examples of these are the Tacx Company and the Weight Watchers. These companies offer a wide range of multi-purpose equipment, including the overlap dumbbells (used in squats and bench presses) and the overlap barbells (used in overhead presses and military press). They also offer other specialized exercise equipment, such as stability shoes, treadmills, rowing machines and Pilates.
Accessories Power equipment, whether it's a bench or a rack or a pilates machine, is only as good as its user. Some manufacturers specialize in accessories that are specific to their products. One example is the Total Gym, which sells an entire set of weightlifting accessories including benches, stacks, racks and other pieces that are designed to help a person lift more weight. Other weightlifter companies focus on their customer service, making sure that they provide instructions and videos for their products. If a customer has a question about their equipment, most have toll free numbers or websites where a customer can call to get help. Manual lighters are a great addition to a home gym because they aren't as expensive as a lot of the other weight lifting equipment, and the accessories make them easier to use.