Rating of the best expanders for 2022

The name expanders comes from the Latin word for stretching. To date, this is a whole series of equipment that includes certain sports equipment. All of them are united by the fact that the exercises performed with their help are based on springy deformation. The elastic components of the projectile, or one such element, provide a load against movement. Different models from different manufacturers may differ in the material of manufacture (rubber or other elastic materials), but must be spring-loaded. The rating of the best expanders for 2022 will help you choose the most suitable one and understand its true purpose.

Purpose and types

One of the features of expanders is that training with these shells is aimed exclusively at certain (not large) muscle groups. Exercises with them are called isolating.

Absolutely all expanders are ideal for:

• strengthening and maintaining muscle tone in between classes;
• strength and aerobic activities of athletes and bodybuilders.

Another good reason for choosing an expander is that this compact projectile takes up very little space. Most models will easily fit in a bag, or even in a pocket. Such practicality allows you to take it on trips, travels and even to work (by the way, with the help of an expander for brushes, you can calm your nerves or relieve tension before an upcoming interview for a new job).

Almost all expanders are rightly called universal. This suggests that representatives of both male and female will be able to successfully train. At the same time, it is extremely convenient that it is possible to regulate the power load taking into account the physical capabilities of a person.

Classification

The principle of operation of all expanders is the opposition of its bending component to the movement of the human body. Often this elastic component is made of natural rubber or is a spring. This interaction between the person and the projectile provides the force of the load on the muscles.

As for the types of load, there are two of them:

1. Stretching trainers.
2. Compression equipment.

Each of them, in accordance with the name, requires a certain effort on the part of the athlete (stretching / compression).

In addition, an extended classification of expanders is also used in professional sports. The main criterion in it is the group of muscles involved in the training. This is how expanders are distinguished for loading muscles:

• brushes;
• legs;
• elbows;
• chest;
• shoulders;
• boxers;
• athletes involved in skiing;
• rubber bands or latex bands;
• "butterflies";
• all groups.

In order to most accurately determine the optimal choice of projectile, it is necessary to dwell in more detail on each of the groups intended for individual muscles.

carpal

They are one of the most numerous categories of this equipment. Differ in:

• form;
• material of manufacture.

The most famous in this group is the carpal "ring" made of rubber. Between themselves, the rings differ in the degree of resistance during compression, measured in kg. In specialized stores, you can purchase options with a resistance of 15 to 65 kg. the difference between the models is 5 kg.

As for the material of manufacture, its main characterizing differences are indicators for:

• rigidity;
• thickness and diameter;
• outer coating - smooth or with massaging elements.

It is recommended to use this type of expander for the following purposes:

• strengthening brushes;
• stabilization of blood flow;
• normalization of the condition of the skin on the hands.

It is worth noting that modern medicine recommends using this type of expanders not only for people who are actively involved in sports, but also for those citizens who need:

• normalize peripheral circulation;
• heal joints;
• put in order the vessels;
• get rid of insomnia and hypertension.

It is also impossible not to note its benefits for people whose activities are associated with hard mental work, including schoolchildren and students.

If this equipment is purchased by a professional athlete, then the fact that the resistance must be gradually increased should be taken into account. That is, from time to time, change the expander to a model with a higher resistance.

Almost the same version of the simulator in the form of a ring are small balls, eggs or metal cocoons. Manufacturers offer these models with a rigidity of 5-25 kg.

Spring modification is called "scissors". They differ from others in the handles on the connection of the rings with the springs. Some of them are equipped with sensors for counting repetitions or dynamometers.

Despite the chosen modification, all carpal expanders are compact and multifunctional. Designed to perform a range of exercises, they perfectly strengthen not only the hands, but also the forearms.

Soft handles make it possible to use the simulators in any environment and comfortably hold them in your hand during training. It is worth noting that the maximum load is provided by shells with a rigid metal handle, which create optimal resistance for professionals. For sports training of experienced athletes, models with a load of more than 50 kg are suitable.

Do not think that only athletes can use carpal expanders. They are ideal for people of creative professions - artists, sculptors, musicians. That is, those who need a constant warm-up of their hands - computer scientists and programmers, in whose hand there is a “mouse” for control almost continuously.

Elbows

These simulators are designed primarily for the muscles of the wrists. That is, they are ideal for athletes practicing arm wrestling.

This is facilitated, first of all, by the fact that working with it involves not only compression (unclenching) of the hands, but a somewhat non-standard position in which the equipment has additional fixation in the elbow. Thus, in addition to the muscles of the hand, the lateral shoulder groups are also involved in the work.

thoracic

The use of equipment is aimed at strengthening the pectoral muscles. The back, triceps and shoulder girdle are also actively involved in the exercises.

The principle of operation of such equipment is based on the compression of elastic rubber cords (springs). Manufacturers guarantee that such training will 100% lead to enlarged and lifted breasts. And, judging by the positive reviews, this statement is really true.

Brachial

Strengthen and strengthen the muscles of the shoulder girdle. Mostly their functionality is based on stretching. They are distinguished from others by the material and the number of springs. Not only can they be steel or rubber, but they can also be removable. This allows you to save on the purchase of different simulators with different loads.

Shoulder rubber trainers are offered in the form of:

• circles;
• twisters (eights);
• double twisters.

Exercise machines of this type are often used to further strengthen muscle groups on the legs.If the equipment has handles, be sure to control that they are comfortable. Regardless of the place of attachment (on the arms or legs), the simulator should in no case press or rub, cause any discomfort or even more pain. If this still happens, you need to replace the model with a product with a foam handle.

In order to make it convenient for athletes to choose an expander that is suitable for resistance, manufacturers have provided different colors for handles and other component models:

• yellow - weak resistance, intended for beginners;
• green - rather weak resistance;
• red - medium;
• blue - high resistance level.

It is worth noting that such color variations are not provided by all manufacturers, so the level of resistance of the simulator must be further clarified with the store consultant.

Rubber band and latex tape

The use of these simulators guarantees stretching and strengthening of muscles, optimization of joint mobility. Mainly used in the classroom:

• martial arts;
• yoga;
• boxing;
• Pilates.

Optimal resistance for muscle training minimizes the risk of injury. A properly selected cycle of exercises contributes to the development of all major muscle groups. That is, in fact, to replace many sports simulators. This makes it just the same universal way to maintain excellent physical shape for all athletes and athletes.

You can buy a tourniquet or tape in a roll or in pieces of certain sizes. Before deciding on the length, you need to take into account the fact that the equipment must be measured with a margin for winding on the arm.This will help you further improvise.

"Butterfly"

The compression trainer develops:

• back
• breast;
• hamstrings;
• buttocks;
• shoulder girdle;
• press.

Ergonomic design contributes to durability. The compact gear can be used anywhere without any problems. Safety is ensured by the presence of plastic springs. Neoprene on the handles ensures comfortable use.

Leg trainers

These products are specialized to increase the load on the muscles of the legs. May be in the form:

• eights;
• rubber bands in the form of a circle.

Some manufacturers offer special models equipped with a cuff for better fixation on the leg.

Expanders for boxers and skiers

Different models of this type of expanders differ from each other by a different number of rubber components designed for stretching. Successfully applied in:

• skiing;
• boxing;
• swimming.

Good at strengthening the muscles of the shoulder girdle, legs, arms and back. Often used to restore muscles after injuries received by athletes. Such a model of simulators is successfully attached to the horizontal bars, and on the Swedish wall, and even on an ordinary bed. In principle, you can attach it almost anywhere. The package of this simulator includes from two to four rubber bands, each of which ends in a loop-shaped handle.

Multifunctional (universal)

Products that develop and support the tone of the back, shoulder girdle and press are multifunctional and light. With them, you can improvise with a varied number of activities, making them more effective.Durable and non-slip material from which clamps and stops are made provides not only comfort during training, but also guarantees the durability of the equipment.

So, having familiarized yourself with the main characteristics of expanders of different groups, you can go directly to the most popular models.

The most popular expanders

Having considered different expanders from different categories, the choice should be stopped on the following models:

• Ironmind Captains of Crush - for the brush;
• Bradex Iron Grip;
• Starfit ES-702 Power Twister - chest;
• Start Up Nt36011;
• Nike Accessories Universal (NER12691NS) - universal;
• Indigo 3 cords (00021321) 200;
• Bradex "Muscle Complex";
• Original fit tools Ankle-EX - for legs;
• Protrain 18137 - "butterfly";
• Lite Weights 0891LW.

It is worth getting acquainted with each of them in more detail.

carpal

Ironmind Captains of Crush

The legendary expander for professional athletes. This series includes the toughest hand trainers. Their resistance ranges from 45 kg in the light version, to 165 kg in the strongest simulator. By the way, in order to note how strong the fourth modification is, you need to know that five people on the entire planet were able to compress it.

The strength of these models is ensured by the materials of manufacture - aircraft-grade aluminum and heavy-duty steel springs. The model is perfect for armwrestlers and weightlifters of a highly professional level. Develops forearm muscles and develops grip strength.

• compactness;
• comfortable grip;
• the possibility of training the pectoral muscles (when gripping with both hands);
• anti-slip notch on the handles;
• spring calibration;
• rigid fastening of the springs to the handles - prevents the equipment from turning around its own axis;
• springs made of anti-corrosion steel;
• hundred year warranty.

• high price;
• different load on the fingers due to the fact that the handles are not parallel;
• the pad at first injures the skin.

Bradex iron grip

One of the most comfortable expanders to use for hand muscle development. Its cushioned foam pads provide optimal grip on the arm. The equipment does not slip out of the hand and does not cause irritation on the skin. Compactness and low weight make this model of the simulator can accompany both on the road and at work.

The projectile is convenient to use for athletes of any level. It is easy to handle for beginners, but it is also suitable for professionals. In fact, "Iron Grit" is comfortable in everything, improving the physical performance of boxers, basketball players, tennis players and bowling athletes. But, this does not mean at all that it cannot be used in the classes of other athletes.

• sold in any specialized store;
• reliability of a structure made of metal;
• the size is easily adjustable.

• the resistance level remains unchanged.

For training the pectoral muscles and shoulder girdle

Starfit ES-702 Power Twister

A model intended primarily for bodybuilders. A rather heavy (up to 1.8 kg) simulator is intended for training serious athletes. Rounded handles connecting the high-quality steel spring allow the projectile to be bent, twisted and rotated in different directions.It is used to develop the muscles of the shoulder girdle and pectoral muscles.

• versatility - the ability to pump biceps, abs, back and forearm;
• loops that do not allow the simulator to break out during training;
• high (up to 60 kg) load;
• compactness.

• load is not controlled;
• out of hand, it can cause serious injury.

Start Up Nt36011

One of the most popular chest simulators is quite suitable for developing the physical capabilities of all households, regardless of gender and age, level of physical fitness. This is directly facilitated by the universal design of sports equipment:

• four plastic handles;
• four springs with a universal length of 32 cm.

The load on each of them is 10 kg. Removable springs allow you to adjust the load level. It is convenient to store unassembled - equipment takes up very little space.

• is inexpensive;
• the design is reliable;
• workouts are effective;

• handles are not equipped with soft pads;
• the equipment does not provide proper resistance to the joints, which allows people with any build to use this expander.

Nike Accessories Universal (NER12691NS)

This model of simulators belongs to the universal. Perfectly forms the shoulder girdle and pectoral muscles. The simulator is designed exclusively for professionals involved in sports for a long period of time.

Manufacturers offer orange and black color schemes.

• little weight;
• a cable made by weaving does not cling to hair and clothes;
• Foam pads are non-slip and prevent blisters.

• high price.

Butterfly trainers

Protrain 18137

It is considered an ideal female simulator - a "butterfly". Used for training muscle groups:

• chest;
• buttocks;
• back;
• hands;
• legs.

Compact and easy to use. The most effective for the correction and formation of the ideal figure. It is made in the form of a figure eight, in appearance it really resembles butterfly wings. The braid is made of foamed soft rubber.

• strength and durability due to the material of manufacture - spring steel;
• compactness;
• suitable for everyone, regardless of gender and level of physical fitness;
• low cost.

• a small level of resistance;
• load is not adjustable.

Lite Weights 0891LW

One of the best in the range of "butterflies". It is ubiquitous and can be purchased at a sporting goods store. Levers made of high-quality metal with soft lining. This minimizes the risk of skin injury during exercise.

The connecting element is made of elastomer. Convenient storage of this expander is provided by its small weight and compactness. Universal for everyone, regardless of age, gender and sports training.

• democratic value;
• high-quality and durable construction;
• ease of use.

• a rubber plug located in the middle can periodically pop out;
• load level is unregulated.

The best expander for skiers

Indigo 3 cords (00021321) 200

In the range of expanders for athletes involved in skiing, this model is the most budgetary.With it, you can work out movements that resemble movements with sticks. The equipment also shows itself effectively in the physical training of martial artists, improving the speed and dynamics of techniques. With its help, all muscle groups are trained qualitatively. The coating of the rubber band with a special braid does not allow it to catch on the athlete's clothes or hair during training.

The large length (2 m) allows even tall athletes to use it successfully. Most suitable for athletes - beginners or teenagers. If the level of physical fitness of the athlete is high, this equipment will definitely not be enough for him.

• universality;
• soft neoprene handles;
• sold everywhere.

• fairly low resistance.

The best universal expander

Bradex "Muscle Complex"

This projectile is universal and, if used correctly, is quite capable of replacing all the main simulators, while conveniently fitting on a shelf in a closet. Full-fledged training is provided by an adjustable level of the desired load (in accordance with the level of sports training of a person).

The mobility of the simulator, provided by its compactness and lightness, allows you to carry it with you and use it in your spare time. With a maximum load of 100 kg, the resistance is 8.2 kg. The expander is made from the following materials:

• plastic - ABS;
• PVC;
• stainless steel;
• polypropylene;
• polyester.

All materials are reliable and durable. The rather high cost of the projectile is due to its excellent quality. The number of variations of exercises with its use is almost unlimited.

• high level of quality;
• universal simulator 5 in 1;
• assembly speed;
• the ability to perform a wide variety of exercises;
• compactness and low weight.

• noticeable smell of plastic;
• possible contraindications for use.

The best expander for legs

Original fit tools Ankle-EX

The adjustable resistance of this leg expander and secure fixation with special Velcro (Velcro) makes this model popular among athletes who want to work out different muscle groups on their legs. The model consists of two leg cuffs made of nylon and interconnected by elastic cables. Fixing is possible in two ways:

• under the calves;
• on the hips.

The maximum possible load of the simulator is 20 kg.

• universal for men and women;
• Made from strong and durable latex
• compact.

• Manufacturer's warranty for 6 months only.
• only six months warranty.

Summing up, we can safely say that a wide range of expanders from different manufacturers allows you to choose a simulator for absolutely everyone, regardless of gender, level of physical fitness and the desired result. The main thing is to soberly assess your capabilities, determine which muscle group you need to train and promptly replace the simulator with a model with high resistance.