For high performance in strength training

High-tech is in demand when it comes to sports equipment, because as athletic performance improves, the development of training equipment must also keep pace to stay at the forefront. For an innovative training device in the field of strength training, the Squeezebar barbell, the developer of the same name opted for Rodriguez's expertise: Two ball-bearing handles on a counter-rotating spindle ensure high performance and training success.

The Squeezebar is the result of a collaboration between sports scientists and engineers to find a new solution for a barbell bar with movable handles. Previous solutions with a rail-guided linear system have the problem that the handle movements are jerky when subjected to high localized loads from heavy weights. This hinders effective (and healthy) training.

While searching for alternatives during the construction of the prototype, the Squeezebar developers came across Rodriguez's ground ball-screw spindles. These enable smooth and synchronized handle movements, even under heavy loads, without loss of power or unwanted stopping impulses. Exercisers can fully focus their concentration and strength on their workout.

High product quality and extensive know-how are crucial

Squeezebar GmbH is now also relying on Rodriguez's expertise for the series production of its high-quality training equipment. The innovative barbell with movable handles is used in both professional and recreational sports. It is currently available in two versions: Squeezebar Lite and Squeezebar-Pro Elegance.

The manufacturer's desired features for the ball screw included a robust, low-maintenance design, smooth running and low noise, as well as tipping stability and corrosion resistance. To achieve the required smooth running, Rodriguez coordinated the spindle diameter and spindle pitch to achieve an optimal ratio.

Fluid movements protect the joints

The handles on the barbell have stops on the left and right, and the thread of the spindle runs in opposite directions exactly from the center of the bar. At the beginning of an exercise, both handles are brought together either at the side stops or in the middle, and their movement is then synchronized by the system – important for the correct exercise sequence. The Rodriguez ball screw drive installed in the Squeezebar ensures the smooth and fluid rotation of the spindle rod inside the handles. This reduces peak loads on the joints and optimizes movement execution. This contributes significantly to the targeted targeting of specific muscle groups, protecting the joints, and improving the quality of training.

For the developers at Rodriguez, the task to be solved for the Squeezebar was an interesting example of the versatile application possibilities of their linear technology, in particular the ball screw drives. Customized solutions are one of the company's strengths – and even specialized industries such as training equipment, fitness, and competitive sports can benefit from them.