AbMat Company Profile

It’s been said before, and it will be repeated. Pieces of equipment that take up minimal space, don’t cost a fortune, and can change up your workouts just a bit to add variety greatly benefit those with home gyms. These 1/4 rings have a diameter of just 1.3,” cost $39.99 and change up a number of your workouts just enough to keep things fresh. Plus, they are more versatile in certain ways than your typical gymnastics rings.

To use, you need to wrap these “Made in the USA” straps over a certain piece of equipment and get to work. It takes just a few seconds to attach and remove.

Gymnastics rings are a staple in many home gyms, but AbMat recently released this option with a twist. These 1/4 rings were primarily created to replicate the feel of rings during pull-ups without having to deal with a complete ring setup, which can be a nuisance to continue taking on and off. However, they have the ability to do much more, which will be explained below.

Not only does this give you a few more “pull-up” options, but it’s also important to note that this may help those with limited shoulder mobility to do pulls because you’re able to rotate your hands from an external position to a neutral one as you go up.

While the primary intent may be to add to a pull-up bar, they also double as a nice cable attachment. Both used simultaneously doubles as a triangle row attachment that can be utilized on high and low pulleys.

In addition, by using just one, it replicates a single handle cable attachment, which is typically used for cable crossover machines or single arm work.

In general, when used as a cable attachment, the 1/4 rings are easy to set up, comfortable, and get the job done. Plus, since they are not “fixed” like most attachments, it adds another dynamic to these movements.

If you get really creative, you can easily attach them to a barbell to perform movements like rows and shoulder shrugs. This can be a nice change of pace from normal barbell work.

😱 Oh wait, almost forgot!! They also make for a convenient way to do farmers’ carries. Strap them up to your heavy kettlebells or dumbbells and go for a walk. It’s much more comfortable to hold onto and should allow for a longer carry than carrying them.

*The heaviest weight used was 90 pounds for a single strap. The ability to be used as a “deadlift strap” is not mentioned on the product info page, so keep in mind that there may be a weight limit. This weight felt completely fine, though, as you might expect.

Finally, some specs on these include:

• A ring diameter of 1.3,” which is just a tad thicker than your traditional ring.

• Polypropylene plastic is easy to grip and will hold up well over time. They feel extremely similar to the Rogue Echo Rings (pictured below).

• The “high tenacity polyester black webbing” is designed to support any bodyweight.

• Black and tan options are included.

To conclude, this is definitely a worthwhile addition to many home gyms, especially those looking for some additional versatility without breaking the bank. They are much easier to use and convenient than traditional rings, and you also have the ability to get creative! This is another innovative solution from AbMat.

Intro

For plyometrics and CrossFit workouts, Wooden Plyo Boxes are as steady as it gets. Because of this stability is typically suited better for high-intensity workouts than “soft” plyo boxes. However, that also means sharp edges which can be intimidating for the common person. If you miss a jump, you’re screwed. You are likely to end up with cuts or bruises on your shins, along with a bruised ego, which may reduce your confidence when performing movements on the box in the future. The RooBox helps solve this issue. These Made in the USA boxes include a rounded edge that limits this danger.

While this addition adds to the cost, it’s an option that many who are timid because of these sharp edges or would rather avoid this risk should consider. Plus, in combination with the added benefit, it’s a rock solid box. In this review, we’ll discuss:

Dimensions

The Edge

The Cost

Other Notes

Compare it to the REP 3 in 1 Soft Plyo Box

Conclusion

Dimensions

The RooBox comes with your standard 30″ x 24″ x 20″ lengths. Therefore you can use it at three different heights. At around 45 pounds, it is extremely stable at all three levels with a wood flat base. Even when hammering a 30″ box jump, there is basically zero movement.

3/4″ plywood is used and is combined with a uniquely designed framework so it is able to handle a ton of force.

The Edge

As previously mentioned, the edging on this box separates it from all other wooden boxes on the market. These edges are created from rounded, but slightly compressible closed cell molded foam rubber. They are a little less firm than a Crumb Bumper Plates. If you press hard enough with your finger, you can make a dent that will fade away within a second.

Plus, they are built into the box so there is no concern of this coming off one day.

While it still won’t feel good to land on it, it will greatly reduce the impact and it’s doubtful that THERE WILL BE BLOOD.

The Cost

The price of this item has recently went up tremendously after price increases to make have risen. At $350 + Shipping, it’s going to simply be too high for most. Therefore it’s simply for someone who desires the best wooden plyo box or trainers who requirethe safest wooden option for their clients.

Other Notes

• Two open areas on each side of the box (4 in total) serve as handles. This helps to make it easy enough to move from one end of the room to the next.

• It is shipped in a number of pieces and takes about 20 minutes to assemble. All tools needed are included. A 10 year old could probably figure out how to do it if they really set their mind to it.

• Scuff marks will happen, but this only adds to the character of the box. It doesn not affect its functionality.

• Two color options are included. The one below is black, while the rest of the features is the tan option.

vs. the REP 3 in 1 Soft Plyo Box

The REP 3 in 1 Soft Plyo Box has typically been the recommendation of choice for most over the years. However, you cannot really go wrong with either of these options. Here are some differences. One may be a better option for you depending on these variations.

• The RooBox is a tad bit more stable, but the REP option includes a wooden box within and is plenty sturdy itself. It’s much more stable than some other soft plyo boxes.

• After Shipping, the RooBox is going to be about $180 more expensive, which is a huge price difference. Keep in mind that this option is made in the USA, whereas the REP option is not.

• Wooden plyo boxes can be a little difficult on the joints. With a soft cover, the REP one wins this section pretty easily.

• With handles, the RooBox is a little bit easier to wield around.

Conclusion

In the end, this is definitely a premium plyo box being produced by the AbMat team. Not only does it help protect the shins, but it’s as sturdy and durable as it gets. While the current pricepoint eliminates many potential buyers, it’s an option that many who prioritize these movements should acknowledge.

Intro

It’s not just awkward to watch. The hip thrust has to be in the conversation as one of the most uncomfortable exercises out there when weight is added. Typically, people will use the barbell on its own or some makeshift solution as a pad between the body and barbell. Without this surface in between, the barbell can really dig in and cause some pain, which can ultimately impact your form. Or, it means you just don’t do it since it’s so unbearable.

How Does the Hip Thrust Pad Work?

The AbMat Hip Thrust Pad helps solve the issues mentioned above. With multiple layers of filling, there is some cushion added between you and the barbell. The top of the pad is a bit harder, which helps absorb much of the pressure. If you flip it, the bottom is a bit softer, which makes it comfier on your bones. Plus, the pad is flexible so it’s easier to distribute the weight, so it doesn’t feel like it’s on just a few spots of the hips. Since it’s more pleasant, it’s easier to perform the movements correctly.

Other Notes

• The one complaint would be that it can take some work to get into place. For many, there may not be a ton of space. For example, in the picture below you can see there is not a huge gap in between the bar and thigh. It does take some getting used to and you may need to wiggle it into place.

• The pad is covered with Cordura. It has the feel and durability of a typical sandbag. Therefore, the longevity of this outer should not be a concern.

• The footprint is small and it’s light enough to be thrown in a gym bag and taken to another gym, because it’s not comfortable there either.

• Is $49.99 worth it? For those that do this on a consistent basis, it’s an option that many should absolutely consider.

• This product is manufactored by AbMat and made in the USA.

In the end, this is a tool that does what it says it does. It is not the most versatile piece of equipment for someone in their home gym, but it will make hip thrusts more comfortable, which will ultimately make them safer and more effective since you’re likely to use better form.

Introduction

Vertical barbell holders are one of the most popular ways to store a barbell. With these, you can put many barbells within a small amount of space, and you do not have to mount them to the wall. For gym owners and barbell collectors, they are an excellent option. However, many of these holders use absolutely zero or very little protection at the bottom, making it rough on the side of the barbell that’s facing down. The noise the bar makes when hitting the bottom is cringeworthy (even when putting in softly). This constant impact on the barbell also has the ability to scratch and reduce the spin of the bar over time. The Barbell Pillows help solve this problem.

Usage & Cost

To use, you slide the cushion into the holder, and your barbell is protected from the hard bottom. The “pillow” will absorb the initial drop,, and very little pressure will be applied to the bar. That “cringeworthy” sound is gone.

This American Made product can be purchased in either a 4 pack ($6.95), 10 pack ($12.95), or a 40 pack ($44.95). $6 will likely be tacked on for shipping. You can use promo code GGE10 to save 10%, by the way.

Surely, you could DIY something or use certain objects lying around the garage for a lower cost, but they are likely not to fit very well and may not last during the long haul.

In the End

To conclude, these barbell pillows will absolutely extend the life of your barbell for a few additional dollars. They work very well and are easy to use. It’s as simple as that. It seems like a no-brainer for gym owners or those with higher-end barbells to add if they are using vertical barbell holders.

This is a product for the thoughtful. Those that truly care about the neighborhood and want to keep the peace will own a pair of Crash Cushions. The neighbors think we are crazy and this is a step towards peace.

But seriously, the Crash Cushions created by AbMat are an excellent option for anyone performing lifts like the snatch or clean and jerk and dropping the weights. They are durable, greatly reduce the noise that normally accompanies a barbell smashing into the ground, and will help preserve the equipment being used.

The Crash Cushions are made in the USA and sold in pairs. They cover 30″ x 24″ x 6,” which is plenty of space to drop a barbell and some plates on with ease. They also include a set of handles, which allows for easy transportation.

They are sturdy. The Cushions are firm and not filled with flimsy material like the pillows you’d buy from Wal-Mart. Each cushion is filled with “Dense Rebond Foam” and weighs 23 pounds. Thus, you can’t just kick them around and they most likely won’t budge when slamming weight on them. The vinyl that surrounds the foam is also rugged. 155 pounds of weight + barbell were left on the pair in the pictures for several days and worry began to sink in. A crease initially showed, but it went away relatively quickly.

The Crash Cushions will benefit the lifts like the snatch, clean and jerk, and power clean, where you drop to the ground from a decent height, the most. However, it’s also useful for lifts like bent-over rows where you are likely going to be setting the bar and weights back on the ground. In addition, it can be useful for exercises where you slam a med-ball or drop heavy sandbags.

Traditional deadlifts are a little tougher. You’ll either need to create some sort of base that is level with the cushions or take a step up to drop (not ideal). It is a decent simulation of block pulls though.

Not only is this going to keep the neighbors or family inside the house happy, but it’ll help preserve your barbell and bumper plates. There is much less “rattling” when hitting the ground and ultimately less force. Your flooring will benefit as well.

In Conclusion, whether you workout while the kids sleep, don’t want to upset the neighbors, or interested in preserving your equipment, this is an investment that would benefit many. They are $249.99 from Rogue or the AbMat website and priced between several other options. The Crash Cushions are durable and it appears that they will last a long time. To top it off, they include a one year warranty.