The Torsonator™ – What is it good for?

Sometimes also referred as a landmine unit due to original versions resembling a landmine, the Torsonator allows for the barbell to be rotated around a central point, as opposed to being lifted relatively straight up and down. The main differences in this loading pattern are the changing resistance throughout the movement and the increased rotational component.

Changing Resistance
Archmides once said “give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world”. The Torsonator gives rise to a different strength profile than a standard barbell lift, as the distance between the load (plates) and the fulcrum point changes throughout the lift. The further a resistance is away from the fulcrum point, the harder it is to move it. If you move the barbell to the point where it is almost vertical, there is minimal resistance when moving it further. Lay the bar horizontally, and you are lifting the full load. So when pressing for example, the lift will become easier as you reach lockout.
This is particularly handy for rowing exercises, as the mechanical advantage decreases the further you row the weight up. This is why bands and rows aren’t necessarily a great fit, they increase resistance as the exercise is becoming naturally harder. With a Torsonator, the resistance more closely matches the strength profile of the exercise, keeping more constant tension on the muscle.

Rotational Component
The trunk / core is responsible for 4 main movements: flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation. It is also responsible for resisting these movements; such as a plank being an example of an anti-extension exercise. Due to the increased unilateral loading, the Torsonator incorporates a significant amount of anti-rotational (and anti-lateral flexion depending on the exercise) work into the performed movement, significantly increasing core activity. An athlete is only as strong as the force they can express, which is why an Olympic weightlifter would not necessarily be an effective Strongman; they have specialised to such a specific movement that they have not adapted to foreign demands. For more general sports, moving heavy weights does not necessarily mean being able to move heavy humans.
A metaphor I have frequently used with clients and with previous articles is to imagine a cannon being shot off of a battleship versus a canoe. The same cannon is being used, but which goes further?
By improving the body’s ability to transfer force from the lower body to the upper body through increasing core stability, the greater the athlete is able to express the full extent of their athleticism.

Which Variation should I use?
At Iron Edge we offer multiple variations of the Torsonator. Your basic standard unit would be the Torsonator Single, which can be put on the floor and used right away. The Torsonator Unearthed requires a plate for the unit to be attached to, but is more portable, ideal for group fitness or small gym where items have to be moved around frequently to make space. Finally, the Torsonator Sleeve is ideal for those with an Iron Edge Assault Rack, Matrix or Iron Cage; as it can be inserted into the rack and at whatever height you choose. If it is attached low, this will function much the same as a Torsonator Single or Unearthed, there is no disadvantage. With the Sleeve, you can also attach it higher for increased versatility (particularly handy for use with a Torsonator Viking Press).