Quite a few of my clients come to me after having completed some physical therapy due to injuries. And in recent years, I saw many of them use the Bodyblade Classic as part of their physio training.
I decided to spend some time with a physical therapist to see whether and how the Bodyblade could be used as part of normal fitness workout routines. I also asked my clients who used it for their opinions and checked what other user reviews had to say.
Check out some of my research below to better understand what it is, how it works, and whether you could make it part of your resistance training.
What Is The Bodyblade?
The Bodyblade is a sleek and lightweight, carbon fiber bow-shaped device with a rubber grip at the center. It’s available in different lengths from 3 to 6 feet long and only weighs a feather-light 1.25 to 2.5 pounds.
The Bodyblade was designed by physical therapist Bruce Hymanson as a device to help train different muscles without creating excessive strain on joints.
The Bodyblade classic kit is the entry-level one and the one we will focus on for this review.
But I’ll also include some information on the other available models below. Let’s take a look at how it’s used.
Our Rating
BODYBLADE
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
How Do You Use A Bodyblade?
You use a Bodyblade by gracefully positioning yourself into one of the many different starting positions and then creating a dynamic and stimulating vibrating effect.
In my own Bodybalde workouts, I achieved this by moving my hand back and forth while gripping the center of the Bodyblade.
Depending on how much you move your hands, the flex of the blade will increase.
And what does this do?
Well, at maximum flex, you could be contracting muscles up to 270 times per minute. And when you hold the blade in different positions, you’ll be targeting different muscle groups.
Here are some example exercises from the included wall chart.
1 - Chest Press
Start with the blade chest-high, and your arms stretched out in front of you. Then get into a push-pull motion. Gradually increase the flex until you feel your arm, chest, and shoulder muscles fully engage.
2 - Side Plank
Start in a side plank position and then reach one hand straight up above you.
Create a light flex first and then increase the intensity while trying to keep your balance.
A study published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy found that performing planks and side planks can reduce the risk of a back injury [1].
3 - Back And Shoulder Reach
Hold the Bodyblade above your head with a reverse grip, where your hands grip in opposite directions. Start the upper body calisthenics exercise with a moderate flex but increase the intensity to build strength.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine claims that neck, shoulder, and upper back exercises help with pain and disability in patients with chronic lower back pain [2].
4 - Ab Crunch
Start in a similar position as the chest press exercise. But instead of a push-pull motion, get into an up and down movement. This exercise should engage muscles from your shoulders to your lower abs.
Remember, the more flex you create, the closer you would get to contracting muscles up to 270 times a minute.
And there are loads more exercises on the wall chart.
- Low impact on joints
- Effective for cardio training
- Helps to work on specific areas
- Ideal for compound muscle exercises
- Not ideal for leg workouts
Advantages Of The Bodyblade
In my personal experience with the Bodyblade, I've witnessed some truly transformative benefits, not just in my own fitness routine but also in the progress of my dedicated clients.
The impact of the Bodyblade has been noticeable from those recovering from injuries to fitness enthusiasts looking to add variety to their workouts.
Here are the benefits you can expect after using Bodyblade.
1 - Low Impact On Joints
With a standard muscle strength training routine, each workout will likely put a lot of strain on joints, tendons, and ligaments.
However, this is not ideal for everyone, regardless of their fitness level and goals. And even bodybuilders could benefit from a lower-impact exercise. This may especially be the case during weight loss or cutting phases [3].
2 - Effective For Cardio Training
Whether during general weight loss, rehabilitation, or just as a warm-up routine before a high-intensity workout, using the blade could help you with just the right intensity for cardio [4].
It's especially the case when you're a beginner since you need not worry about the sudden surge of activity that could leave you feeling overwhelmed.
We saw quite a few reviews that mentioned that it would be quite easy to gradually increase the intensity, just like you would on a treadmill or rower.
Related Article: Best Compact Treadmill Reviews
3 - Helps To Work On Specific Areas
Because it was designed for physiotherapy use, it seems to be quite a simple tool to work on specific areas.
For example, let’s say you need some more core and back strength, then you could pick 3 or 4 exercises for your workouts to gradually build up those areas.
And when you look at the included exercise wall chart or DVD, then you get an idea of how many parts of your body you could target.
4 - Ideal For Compound Muscle Exercises
Unless you’re an advanced bodybuilder, the best thing you could do to build up strength is by adding compound exercises to your training.
These target multiple muscles in one area, and the more resistance you create, the better those muscles will burn energy and increase growth [5].
The benefits of compound exercises are exceptional: they recruit multiple muscle groups to help you gain more strength and mass while also burning more calories than standard isolation exercises.
- Medium.com
Bodyblade Downsides
To make this a completely honest Bodyblade review, I do want to point out some downsides though they are few and far between.
First of all, be careful where and how you use the blade. I got a bit too enthusiastic one time and put a nice hole in the ceiling and drywall at home.
So, before you start an exercise, try the movement in slow motion to make sure you have enough space in your home.
Secondly, it’s not an ideal tool for leg workouts. The DVD does contain some good squat-type routines, but the flex of the bow won’t really have the same effect on your legs.
Muscles Targeted
This is one of the glowing and standout positives we noted in several of our client feedback reports.
With an easy change in grip, stance, balance, or posture, you should notice quite a change in the muscles that become engaged.
The wall chart and DVD video instructions give a good idea of how to trigger certain areas.
Overall, our team found it seemed to work best for your shoulders, upper back, and core muscles.
We also think that there are good ways to focus your attention on just a few muscles once you gain some confidence with your new exercise tool.
How Different Are the Bodyblade Models?
We focused this review around the Classic model, but we want to make sure you’re also aware of two other versions you could buy.
Bodyblade CXT
From a length perspective, this is the shortest one at 40 inches. It’s also the lightest at 1.25 lbs.
However, it’s still an excellent tool for your workouts. It might also be the right option if you don’t have much space.
We also saw some reviews that said it might be better for rehabilitation training after a more severe injury.
Bodyblade Pro
The Bodyblade pro kit is the largest. With a length of 60 inches and a weight of 2.5 lbs, it’s a tool for more advanced training.
It also happens to be the one I used to put in a hole in a wall because I underestimated the length.
It’s good for strength training on your arms and shoulders, as the higher weight should also increase resistance.
Does The Bodyblade Really Work?
Yes, the Bodyblade really does work, if you follow the DVD video instructions meticulously and with dedication. My own physical therapist has been using it for several years to help treat various sports injuries.
But it’s also suitable for a regular workout, especially if you go for the long and heavier-weight model.
While it is a completely new way to structure your workout, I have seen a lot of excellent results, especially for upper body muscle groups' strength and fitness.
Bodyblade vs. Traditional Resistance Training
Bodyblade exercises use a unique oscillating motion, creating dynamic resistance that challenges the body to stabilize and balance. This method engages a wide range of muscle groups simultaneously, focusing on endurance and coordination.
In contrast, traditional resistance training involves static movements using free weights, machines, or body weights. This approach targets specific muscle groups, allowing for concentrated muscle building and strength development.
The Bodyblade's continuous tension and rapid contraction technology engage muscles in a way that promotes endurance and functional strength. It requires the muscles to adapt to both stabilizing and moving roles, offering a comprehensive workout.
Traditional resistance training, on the other hand, allows for more controlled and isolated muscle engagement, making it ideal for building muscle mass and raw strength.
Other at home fitness equipment:
Bodyblade Alternatives
Rogue Echo Bike
Bodyblade and the Rogue Echo Bike are two very different pieces of fitness equipment, each with its unique benefits and purposes.
Bodyblade is a lightweight, oscillating fitness tool designed to improve core strength, stability, and overall muscle tone. It consists of a flexible blade that you wave back and forth, creating resistance through vibration.
On the other hand, the Rogue Echo Bike is a heavy-duty, air-resistance exercise bike built for intense cardio workouts. It offers a full-body workout by engaging the arms and legs simultaneously.
BodyBoss
Compared to Bodyblade, which is a single, lightweight, oscillating fitness tool that uses blade-like movements to engage muscles and improve core strength and stability, BodyBoss is a portable gym system that includes resistance bands, a collapsible platform, and various accessories and offers a versatile range of exercises for full-body workouts.
BodyBoss provides a more comprehensive approach, offering exercises for various muscle groups, including upper and lower body, core, and even cardiovascular workouts.
NordicTrack
NordicTrack offers a range of stationary bikes for cardio workouts, focusing on improving cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and endurance.
Bodyblade emphasizes core strength, stability, and muscle toning, making it ideal for users looking to enhance specific muscle groups and stability.
On the other hand, the NordicTrack Bike is primarily designed for cardiovascular workouts, offering options for users who want to improve their endurance, burn calories, and enhance leg strength.
User Testimonials
My PT recommended this for my shoulder and it really works. It’s much more convenient to use than a lot of the other exercises. Only downside is it seems more expensive than it needs to bed the grip also smells like a tire shop.
- Curran, United States
I was sceptical about this thing at first but the chart that comes with it has a lot of exercises that I wouldn't have thought of myself. Some of them are actually very challenging. Very well made and perfect for physical therapy or core exercises.
- Adam, United States
I first learned to use this from my shoulder rehab therapists. It is very fun, but quickly exhausting = not able to get it going well at all. I liked it so much that I purchased one to keep up with my shoulder exercises at home. It has many other exercises too.
I highly recommend.- Susan, United States
FAQs
Does Bodyblade Build Muscle?
Yes, Bodyblade may build muscle. For maximum effect, and better use of your time, you might be best off with the pro kit. The heavier weight adds more strain and resistance than the classic kit, which could boost your exercise routines.
What Does a Bodyblade Do?
A Bodyblade causes rapid muscle contractions in different parts of your body, depending on how you hold it. The strain of each exercise is dependent on how much you flex the Bodyblade, which ultimately increases the resistance your body may experience.
Who Invented the Bodyblade?
The Bodyblade was invented by a physiotherapist named Bruce Hymanson. It was specifically created to help people strengthen their muscles after an injury. It’s a completely new and innovative solution that makes a gradual increase in intensity quite easy.
Our Verdict on the Bodyblade
Having integrated the Bodyblade into my fitness regime and seen its impact on clients, I'm thoroughly impressed. Its effectiveness in strengthening core and upper body muscles is notable.
A client with shoulder issues made remarkable progress in just weeks, a testament to Bodyblade's efficacy. It's ideal for injury recovery or adding variety to workouts, and the quick shift from shoulder to abdominal exercises is particularly beneficial.
I highly recommend the classic kit for anyone seeking a low-impact, yet powerful workout tool. Bodyblade isn't just equipment; it's a transformative experience.
We Recommend
BODYBLADE
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Low impact on joints
- Effective for cardio training
- Helps to work on specific areas
- Ideal for compound muscle exercises
- Not ideal for leg workouts
About The Author
You May Also Like
I love using the Bodyblade for resistance training, but it’s also been helpful for rehabilitation after a shoulder injury. Worth checking out!