​                                                            What is MUSCLETM Training?

Multiplanar Spinal CoLumn ExerciseTM is a comprehensive system of training the back, abs, spine, pelvic and shoulder girdles.  Frequently referred to as the "core", these muscles are the foundation for a properly functioning body.  Improving core strength, stability, and flexibility are important for anyone with chronic pain, orthopedic problems, neurological deficits, as well as in athletic performance. Developed by a Physical Therapist with 34 years of orthopedic experience, the Super-Z Muscle Trainer works the body in all planes and incorporates the four components that are critical for a comprehensive core program:        
                                                             Stretching - Strengthening - Stabilization - Stamina 

The Super-Z Story:  In 2012 Rick Zivney, PT began looking for a way to provide multiplanar core exercises to his rehab and training clients at his facility, Genesis Physical Therapy,  (genesisptrockwall.com) in Rockwall, Texas.  Genesis is equipped with some of the finest rehab equipment (Alter G Anti-Gravity Treadmill, Isokinetics, Biodex Balance System, and more), but most core stabilization was done using Swiss and BOSU ball exercises. Core stretching exercises were done on a mat table, and static stretches tended to be very labor intensive and time consuming.  In his single-therapist practice, Rick needed a way to provide these services without complicated set-up or dangerous positioning.  

Hello TExAs:  Rick created a device he called the "TExAs" which stands for Triplanar Exercise Assist". Initially created out of PVC pipe and chain, the TExAs allowed the attachment of suspension equipment and movement in all directions, creating multiplanar or triplanar exercise for UEs and LEs at the same time.  The first generation Super-Z was hung in the garage door frame at his home in Heath, Texas.   The second was bolted into the walls in a back area at Genesis.  Even with it's limited abilities, Rick could see that exercise that created multiplanar work for both the UEs and LEs, at the same time, was extremely beneficial. The challenge was to provide these strengthening and stabilization exercises to clients of all fitness levels. The 3rd generation Z included a frame built around a mat table, with adjustable booms, to suspend two TExAs unit simultaneously.  The initial Strength and Stability Exercise Program consisted of 6 exercises (now 7), with 4 levels of difficulty ranging from Beginner (low fitness or post surgical) - Intermediate - Advanced - Pro (extreme fitness or professional athlete).  The levels provide progressive levels of instability and challenge all parts of the core without compressive forces into the spine. Exercises are easy to set up, and positioning is at most inches above the mat, allowing a stoppage of exercise at any point. Each exercise is  1 minute in length and the work-rest period is increased as the fitness level increases.   Example: Initially a client may perform a 20 seconds
of exercise and 40 seconds of rest for each exercise. The next session may use 21 seconds of exercise with 39 seconds of rest. While building strength, this progression also stresses endurance and improves stamina in the core muscles.
 
Flexibility Training:  The next challenge was to provide flexibility exercises as part of the program.  Initially there were 6 (now 7) stretches in the Super-Z Flexibility Program. The Super-Z was designed to evaluate and treat the following MOVEMENTS and SOFT TISSUES:  
MOVEMENT: Ant/Post Pelvic Tilt, Lumbar flexion-extension-sidebending-rotation, Hip adduction-abduction-rotation-extension-flexion
SOFT TISSUES: Thoracolumbar Fascia, Hamstring, Iliopsoas, Rectus Femoris, Quadratus Lumborum, IT Band, Glutes, Piriformis, Hip AD/AB,  as well as small muscles around the spine, joint capsules, fascial bands, and ligaments around the hips, spine and SI joint ligaments. 

The best way to improve the pliability of soft tissue is with static stretching. Proper static stretching should: (1) Require minimal or no force to maintain position (2) Allow the person to relax and take slow deep breaths without discomfort  (3) Be held for at least 2-3 minutes (longer if desired) and allow the tissues to release.  In this position, other interventions such as soft tissue massage or contract-relax technique can be used.  This is the reason the entire Super-Z frame can move to adjust the stretch and maintain optimal positioning as tissues elongate and release.  No movement or exertion is required from the client.  This feature is unique to the Super-Z and allows you to provide an effective and comprehensive stretching program while being free to assist other clients or patients.  

                                                                          MULTIPLANAR SPINAL COLUMN EXERCISE TM
                                                           STRETCHING  -  STRENGTHENING  -  STABILIZATION  -  STAMINA

The Two Other S's:   Safe and Simple.  The Super-Z was designed by someone who has ran multiple departments in a hospital setting for 16 years. Every decision is made with patient safety in mind.  The Super-Z can accommodate all kinds of clients, regardless of size or injury. The Super-Z mat table adjusts from 16" to 25" and is bariatric rated to 550 lbs.  The frame and all attachments are designed to accommodate almost any kind of injury or size of person.  All exercises set up in seconds and are reproducible. The Super-Z Muscle Trainer is the one piece of equipment that every therapist, trainer, or coach needs to assist their patients, clients, or athletes.  Want to grow your business: provide MUSCLE training at your facility.

Don't just treat your clients, make them better! For more information about the Super-Z MUSCLE Trainer call the inventor,

                                                Rick Zivney, PT        214-679-0186