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You might not be as familiar with the term “isometric training,” but are likely aware of basic isometric exercises like the plank and wall sit. Unlike traditional weightlifting, which involves lifting and lowering weight, isometrics require maintaining a fixed body position without excess movement in your joints. This unique training style focuses on engaging and holding tension in to help build endurance, strength, and stability or potential correct muscular imbalances.
If you’re interested in this type of training, the Isophit Strength Kit can be a helpful tool that allows you to move beyond the basics and perform a wide variety of isometric exercises. With the Isophit, you can engage in an isometric squat, leg press, chest press, shoulder press, deadlift, triceps dip, biceps curl, and more. This versatility enables you to target multiple muscle groups and tailor your workouts to your current fitness level and specific needs.
I—a certified nutrition coach (CNC), and personal trainer (CPT)—put this innovative piece of equipment through multiple training sessions, and will share my insights from the unboxing and setup process to its durability and construction quality. I’ll also discuss the Isophit’s footprint/portability, cost, and whether it’s a worthy addition to your home gym or studio. Then, as a bonus, I’ll explore everything you need to know about isometric strength training and how the Isophit can elevate your workouts.
By the end of this Isophit review, you’ll have a more comprehensive understanding of how the Isophit Mobile Strength Kit functions and whether it can help you achieve your fitness goals.
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Although isometric training may not be as mainstream as dynamic movements like HIIT, resistance training, weightlifting, or calisthenics, we recognize its effectiveness in building and maintaining muscle and contributing to improved sports performance1. Our extensive experience with various isometric exercises and equipment allows us to provide valuable insights, helping you make informed decisions about incorporating this type of training into your fitness routine.
We tested the Isophit Strength Kit across multiple workouts and used our custom fitness equipment testing methodology to rate it on a scale of 1 to 5 in the following categories:
- Value
- Construction and durability
- Ergonomics and comfort
- Footprint and portability
- Ordering, assembly, and set-up
- Programming
- Smart features
- Warranty, financing, and returns
- Versatility
- Customer service
Isophit Strength Trainer Kit
Product Highlights
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Space-saving machine
- 200+ video tutorials available
- Can withstand 1,500+ lbs of resistance
- Able to do a variety of exercises
Cons
- Expensive
- Accessing the full 30inThirty programming requires an additional investment ($300)
Bottom Line
The Isophit Strength Trainer is an all-in-one system meant to make isometric training easy and convenient. The system only requires 9 feet of space and gives you the ability to perform several different exercises and workouts with over 200 video tutorials to select from.
A Quick Look at Isophit
The Isophit Strength Kit is designed with a singular focus—to make isometric training accessible, versatile, and effective for everyone from Olympic and professional athletes like four-time World Figure Skating Champion Kurt Browning to everyday fitness enthusiasts like yourself. Its creator, Brad Thorpe, saw the untapped potential of isometric training in building strength, stability, and injury resistance without the risk of joint pain and stress2 often associated with traditional weightlifting exercises such as the barbell back squat. Thorpe, who has spent years researching muscle activation, muscle strength, and isometric protocols, brought the Isophit to life to deliver a safe, efficient workout method for building muscle and enhancing performance1.
Unlike traditional gym equipment, which often relies on weighted resistance and dynamic movement, the Isophit is centered around static holds and controlled muscle tension. This focus on isometric exercises provides a potential advantage over conventional weightlifting and cardio equipment by allowing users to achieve muscle engagement without repetitive joint strain. With its sturdy frame and open adjustable support bar, the Isophit easily adapts to a variety of exercises, such as isometric Zercher squats, chest and shoulder presses, deadlifts, and core holds. This flexibility helps you target specific muscles, making it ideal for strength, rehabilitation, sports performance, or endurance training.
Compared to other isometric trainers, the Isophit stands out for its durability and ease of use, as many isometric tools aren’t intended for home use or can be difficult to set up. The brand also emphasizes portability and practicality, making it a solid choice for home gyms and training studios.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Before You Buy
- The Isophit Strength Kit arrives fully assembled, ready for immediate use
- With its compact design—it has a footprint of less than 9 square feet—it’s excellent for home gyms and small fitness studios
- Built for durability, the Isophit is rigorously tested to handle over 1,500 pounds of resistance
- Has access to over 140 free exercise demos on the Isophit YouTube page and tutorials at Isophit.com to enhance your isometric training program
- The Isophit Strength Kit’s support bar is fixed at 31″ from the base in the 90° position, which may limit its functionality for taller individuals performing certain exercises such as isometric squats or leg press
Is Isophit Worth It?
The Isophit Strength Kit may be a worthwhile addition to your workout routine, especially for those looking to build strength and stability through low-impact training. Its compact design and range of exercise options make it a versatile choice for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone in physical therapy. While the Isophit is an investment, its sturdy construction and unique isometric training approach could make it a great option for those seeking specialized, low-impact strength equipment.
Great for:
- Individuals focused on building strength and stability through low-impact workouts
- Home gym owners seeking compact and versatile equipment
- Physical therapy patients needing joint-friendly training
Not recommended for:
- Users with specific cardiovascular goals since the Isophit Strength Kit focuses on muscle activation rather than high-energy movement that will elevate heart rate
- Individuals looking for budget-friendly gym equipment
- People who prefer more dynamic workouts using barbells, dumbbells, and weights
Isophit Specs
| Price | $1,650 |
| Weight | 93 lbs |
| Platform dimensions | Base: 32” L x 30” W x 2.5” HBar: 31” at 90° |
| Max resistance | 1,100 lbs at 30° 1,521 lbs at 60° |
| Programming | 30inThirty Strength Series ($300) |
| Technology | N/A |
| Accessories | Isophit Pad ($89), Isophit Strength Straps ($149) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Workout Experience/Using Isophit
The Isophit Strength Kit offers a unique and effective isometric workout experience, impressing from the moment you unbox it. The setup is refreshingly straightforward—no tools, no complicated instructions, just a fully assembled unit that’s ready to use. At 93 pounds, the unit is on the heavier side, so you’ll want to take some care when setting it up in your personal training space. Smaller individuals may want to enlist the help of a second person to make this process easier.
That said, the substantial weight is an asset, providing the stability and sturdiness necessary for intense isometric holds. The solid construction also ensures the unit stays firmly in place during your iso workouts, delivering a secure and safe experience. Isophit also thoughtfully includes a small floor mat to protect indoor surfaces from scuffs and scratches, a small but highly appreciated detail. For these reasons, I rated the Isophit Strength Kit a 5 out of 5 for ordering, assembly, and setup.
My first experience with the Isophit Strength Kit was through their 30inThirty program, which introduced me to a full-body isometric workout. The program is structured around 45-second holds with just 15 seconds of rest between exercises, challenging me to maintain a high level of intensity across various movements such as the leg press, deadlift, shoulder press, plank, and more—targeting both large and small muscle groups which earned it a 5 out of 5 for versatility.
This workout was an excellent introduction to isometrics, offering a hands-on way to learn the kit’s ins and outs and all the movements it can support. However, holding an isometric contraction at maximum intensity for the full 45-second interval proved incredibly challenging. I had to pace myself and adjust the exertion level slightly to maintain each hold, as keeping full intensity for that long without breaks was almost impossible.
Additionally, with only 15 seconds of rest, I quickly realized the importance of efficiently adjusting the support bar between exercises. Initially, this felt a bit rushed, but with practice, I got much faster at making the necessary angle changes. This quick transition became second nature, adding a smooth rhythm to my workout as I progressed through each exercise.
If you’re considering the Isophit Strength Kit and the 30inThirty programming, you’ll be pleased to know that the first 10 programs in the 30inThirty series are included with your purchase. These initial programs provide a challenging and effective introduction to isometric training, offering a variety of exercises that help you build strength and master different isometric techniques right from the start.
While I believe the 30inThirty programming itself deserves a full 5-star rating, the 4-star score reflects the additional $300 cost required for the complete program, which may be a consideration for those already investing in a premium product.
Footprint and Portability
At 93 pounds, the Isophit’s weight supports stability but can be difficult to move alone. Fortunately, the kit’s compact, low-profile design and ability to fold make it easy to stow in a home gym space. This balance of sturdy construction and small footprint earned the Isophit a 4.5 out of 5 for this category, as it’s both durable and compact but may require assistance to move.
Durability and Construction
The Isophit Strength Kit’s construction quality is exceptional—its stability and durable build ensure that it remains secure even through intense isometric holds. I appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of a floor mat, which prevents scratches and further stabilizes the equipment. For durability and craftsmanship, the Isophit gets a 5 out of 5.
Ergonomics and Comfort
During subsequent workouts, the Isophit Strength Kit proved itself intuitive and user-friendly, especially with its adjustable angle settings from zero to 90 degrees in 15-degree increments. I found the ergonomic design dynamic enough to support a wide range of movements, with the 75-degree setting ideal for exercises like the Zercher squat, shoulder press, and biceps curl. Meanwhile, I switched to the highest 90-degree setting for leg presses and hanging core stabilizations and the 45-degree setting for planks and chest presses.
I did find that I needed to make small tweaks, like adding a yoga mat to help improve my comfort level during holds, resulting in a rating of 3.5 out of 5.
Technology and Convenience
A future enhancement that would significantly improve the Isophit Strength Kit’s utility would be the addition of force-tracking features to monitor progress in isometric training. Unlike traditional weightlifting, where you can visibly see strength improvements by adding more weight to the bar, isometric training lacks that immediate feedback mechanism. This absence of digital tracking makes it challenging to gauge progress in strength gains over time.
While the Isophit remains an excellent tool for building strength, its inability to provide real-time performance feedback limits your ability to measure improvements effectively, resulting in a 1 out of 5 for technology (aka smart features).
Isophit vs X3 Bar
X3 Bar
Product Highlights
- Up to 300 lbs of force
- Upgrade to up to 600 lbs
- Free workout program included
- No assembly necessary
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Can create up to 300 pounds of force (up to 600 if you get the Elite Band, sold separately)
- Free 12-week workout program with high-quality workout and nutrition advice
- Bar has great knurling
- No assembly necessary
- Bands are dipped in layered latex, making them thick and durable
Cons
- Platform’s embedded rollers don’t allow bands to roll during lift, but that's nitpicky
- Quite pricey at around $550 (financing available)
- Only 1-year warranty for the bands
- Some complaints of the bands wearing down after only a few weeks
Bottom Line
A compact piece of strength training equipment that combines the best parts of resistance bands and barbells into one.
The X3 Bar, developed by Dr. John Jaquish, integrates the principles of variable resistance training through its use of high-quality latex bands, claiming to provide a superior muscle-building stimulus compared to traditional weightlifting. This portable system combines an Olympic-style bar paired with resistance bands, creating a compact workout solution that can generate up to 300 pounds of force (or 600 pounds with an optional elite band). Lifters appreciate its ability to mimic a wide range of exercises typically performed with a barbell, including squats, bench presses, and curls, all while being space-efficient enough to fit in your travel bag.
In contrast, the Isophit Strength Kit offers a distinct approach with its unique isometric training system. This type of training emphasizes producing maximum muscle tension while enhancing strength and stability without excess joint movement. Unlike the X3 Bar, which relies on variable resistance through band stretching, the Isophit kit ensures consistent tension regardless of the position of the lift, which can be beneficial for isolating muscle groups and improving strength through movements.
Overall, both the Isophit and X3 Bar are designed for users seeking a more traditional weight training experience with added safety features that eliminate the risk associated with free weights. Their low-profile designs and exceptional portability make them worthwhile investments, especially for those seeking to maximize their home or travel workouts.
However, it’s important to note that the Isophit is approximately three times the price of the X3 Bar, so you’ll need to evaluate which option aligns best with your budget and training goals.
For more, read our in-depth X3 Bar review.
| Isophit | X3 Bar | |
| Price | $1,650 | $549 ($99 for the Elite Band) |
| Weight | 93 lbs | 17 lbs (19 lbs with Elite Band) |
| Dimensions | Base: 32” L x 30” W x 2.5” HBar: 31” at 90° | Ground plate: 10” L x 19” W x 1” H |
| Max resistance | 1,100 lbs at 30° 1,521 lbs at 60° | 300 lbs (600 lbs with Elite Band) |
| Programming | 30inThirty program ($300) | N/A |
| Technology | n/a | Real time force tracking ($400) |
| Accessories | Isophit Pad ($89), Isophit Strength Straps ($149) | White band: 10-100 lbsLight gray band: 25-160 lbsDark gray band: 50-240 lbsBlack band: 60-300 lbsElite band (orange): 110-600 lbs (sold separately) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 5 years for plate and bar, 1 year for bands |
Customer Experience
Isophit stands out for its excellent customer experience, offering a two-year warranty on its products and a 30-day return policy, provided the items are kept in their original packaging. This ensures that you can purchase with confidence, knowing you’re protected from potential defects. Additionally, the customer service experience is fantastic.
When I submitted a few questions through their website, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a response from CEO Brad Thorpe within minutes. This demonstrates Isophit’s dedication to its customers and addressing their needs, so I gave it a 5 out of 5 for customer service.
Ordering and Assembling Isophit
The ordering process for Isophit is streamlined and user-friendly, allowing customers to easily select their preferred model and complete their purchase online. Shipping is prompt, with clear communication regarding tracking and delivery times, ensuring that you know when to expect your new equipment.
One of the standout features of the Isophit is its hassle-free setup—no assembly is required. This means you can unbox your equipment and start your workout right away. Overall, every aspect of the experience, from ordering to delivery, has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure a smooth and enjoyable process.
Final Verdict of Our Isophit Review
The Isophit Strength Kit stands out as an innovative solution for anyone looking to elevate their fitness routine with isometric training. Its user-friendly setup, durable design, and impressive stability deliver a reliable workout experience right out of the box. Additionally, the adjustable angles allow for targeted and versatile training across various muscle groups.
That said, the premium price point is an important factor to consider, and it’s essential to reflect on your commitment to isometric training before making a purchase. I would only recommend the Isophit Strength Kit for individuals who are serious about integrating isometric exercises into their fitness routine.
After all, you don’t want a $1,650 investment sitting in a corner and collecting dust in your home gym. Ultimately, for those willing to invest in the benefits of isometric training, the Isophit Strength Kit is a high-quality option that can help enhance your strength, stability, and athletic performance.
Full Rating
Isophit
The Isophit Strength Trainer is an all-in-one system meant to make isometric training easy and convenient. The system only requires 9 feet of space and gives you the ability to perform several different exercises and workouts with over 200 video tutorials to select from.
Product Currency: $
Product Price: 1650
Product In-Stock: InStock
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Isophit: FAQs
How does Isophit work?
The Isophit Strength Kit offers a low-impact yet highly effective approach to enhancing strength and stability through static muscle contractions. An adjustable support bar can be set at various angles, allowing you to target different muscle groups while performing a wide range of isometric exercises. This innovative training method has the potential to boost muscle activation, aid recovery, and enhance overall body control.
What are the results of Isophit?
The Isophit Strength Kit allows you to perform a wide range of isometric exercises, which is a great way to promote significant muscle activation. This can lead to improved endurance and strength gains across various muscle groups. When following a well-designed isometric exercise program, you may notice improvements in strength, stability, and muscle definition.
Additionally, the low-impact nature of isometric training helps reduce your risk of injury as well as facilitate recovery, making it a valuable tool for rehabilitation and strength training.
Can you lose weight with isometric exercises?
You can lose weight with isometric exercises, though the results depend on your overall fitness routine, diet, and calorie expenditure. Isometric exercises engage specific muscle groups by holding a position without movement, helping to build strength and endurance. While they may burn fewer calories compared to dynamic exercises, increased muscle mass from isometric training can help raise your resting metabolic rate3.
When combined with a balanced diet and a comprehensive fitness regimen, isometric exercises may effectively support your weight loss efforts.
References
- Aleais, D.A.S., Sullivan, K., Ferreira, P., Marchetti, P.N., Marchetti, P.H. (2022) Acute Dose-Response of Duration During the Isometric Forearm Plank Exercise on Muscle Thickness, Echo-Intensity, Peak Force, and Perception of Effort in Recreationally-Trained Participants. International Journal of Exercise Science, 15(6):676-685:676-685. PMID: 35991937; PMCID: PMC9365105.
- Morrissey, D., Callaghan, M. J., & Oldham, J. A. (2014). Strength Training and Injury Prevention in Athletes: Current Evidence. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 44(2), 89–99. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2014.4936
- McPherron AC, Guo T, Bond ND, Gavrilova O. (2013) Increasing muscle mass to improve metabolism. Adipocyte, 2(2):92-8. https://doi.org/10.4161/adip.22500
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