An older friend of mine cleared out his storagehouse, and found an old item he gave to me. Appearantly from the Czech Republic sometime in the 1970-1980ties, but the date is not certain.
To me, it looks like an old gimicky type of equipment, that self proclaimed strongmen used, back on old adverts. I can only come up with one excercise that can be performed with it (rear deltoids, though it is a bit heavy for that).
Can anyone share any info on this device, where it originates from and how to use it?
Thanks for this! Chest expander then. āItās changed my lifeā¦ā!
I will definitely try the czech device out, but am prepared for springs exploding everywhere, as it looks more like a toy, to be honest. That said, there is a new made heavy duty version available on the market.
I see myself becoming the chest expander nerd of Tnation! Someone has to do it!
Researching the subject, Iāve found some interesting content on Youtube. The Reg Park Chest Expander Program (below) seems to be a great introduction.
Did this program, and must admit Iām humbled by the feel of the chest expander. The strength curve is different than resistance bands, more smooth or defined - Where RB gets really tight in the stretched position, the spring derived tension of the chest expander is more evenly distributed.
Also, on second thought, my czech device is a sturdy construction, that does not bend or fail any provocation. Not sure how much force it produces, but I would say it feels like around 44 lbs in the most stretched position with the 2 springs attached.
Now, I tried this the day after a heavy powerlifting session yesterday, and it was like the perfect light accessory workout for arms, shoulders and upper back. It felt great, to be honest!
The great German Strongman Fred Rollon, known as āThe Human Anatomy Chartā developed his incredible condition primarily through training with 300 lbs chest expanders. Showcasing the limits of natural hypertrophy. The pics are from 1907 and 1924! Look at them underarms!
