Reverse Hyper

​The Reverse Hyper is one of the most widely used pieces of equipment that is used in the powerlifting world.  If you are at a powerlifting gym there is a pretty high chance that there is one, I have even started seeing commercial gyms implementing them as the need and want for this machine is continually growing each and everyday. Whether you are a professional athlete, high level strength athlete or just an ordinary person trying to get healthier and stronger the Reverse Hyper WILL help you!
            Louie Simmons, founder of West-Side Barbell and the inventor of the reverse hyper, came up with the idea back in 1973 when he broke his back. Not being able to lift or even walk due to terrible sciatica and SI joint problems he analyzed what movements he was able to do. After not being able to do a back raise Louie tried to do the reverse of it which is raising the lower half of your body. After doing these he noticed the amount of blood flow going to his back and it had started relieving his pain. Since then the Reverse Hyper was born.
            No matter what your job is or your hobbies are, you need a healthy spine. Everything we do we use our spine, therefore if it's broken it'll be difficult to do anything in your daily life. The Reverse Hyper helps promote more blood flow, strengthening your erectors as well as help decompress the spine, which we all need! I personally used the reverse hyper when I was dealing with a SI Joint issue and this helped relieve the pain and make me stronger than ever. Instead of possibly taking 3-6 months off of lifting I was able to get back under a bar by month two!
            When using the reverse hyper you lay down and hold on to the handles while keeping your ankles strapped in. While keeping your legs straight, start swinging, allowing your legs to swing with full range of motion, bring your legs up to almost an 180 degree angle, this part helps strengthen it, then allow your legs to swing underneath the machine, this part helps decompress your spine. Pro Tip: Slow down before hopping off unless you want bruised shins! Not only can you use the reverse hyper to strengthen your posterior chain you can do many other exercises. Such as TKES, Leg Curls, Rows and so many more!
            Give it a try and let us know what you think of the Reverse Hyper! Check out our Youtube for a Video Demonstration! 

Coach Matt

Powerlifting Coach & Strongman Competitor