Ball screw for high performance in strength training

In the innovative Squeezebar barbell, a custom-machined ground ball screw from Rodriguez ensures a perfect and effective training session. (Image: Squeezebar GmbH)

High-tech is required for sports equipment, because in the same measure that athletic performance increases, the development of training devices must keep pace to stay at the top. For an innovative training device in the field of strength training, the Squeezebar barbell, the developer of the same name chose Rodriguez for their know-how: Two ball-bearing handles on an opposing screw ensure high performance and training success.

The Squeezebar is the result of a collaboration between sports scientists and engineers to find a new solution for a barbell with movable handles. Previous solutions with a rail-guided linear system have the problem that the movements of the handles can jerk at high weights due to large point loads. This hampers effective (and healthy) training.

While searching for alternatives in building the prototype, the developers of the Squeezebar came across Rodriguez's ground ball screw spindles. These allow smooth and synchronized movements of the handles even under high load, without power loss or unwanted stop impulses. Trainees can fully focus their concentration and strength on their workout.

High product quality and extensive know-how decisive

For series production of their high-quality training device, Squeezebar GmbH now relies on Rodriguez's expertise. The innovative barbell with movable handles is used in both professional and recreational sports. It is currently available in two versions: Squeezebar Lite and Squeezebar-Pro Elegance.

The features desired by the manufacturer for the ball screw spindle were a robust, low-maintenance design, high smoothness of operation, and low noise development, as well as stability against tilting and corrosion resistance. To achieve the also-needed lightness, Rodriguez coordinated spindle diameter and spindle pitch in an optimal ratio.

Fluid movements protect the joints

The handles on the barbell have stops on the left and right, and exactly from the middle of the bar, the spindle thread is designed to rotate in opposite directions. At the start of an exercise, both handles are brought either to the side stops or together in the middle; their movement then proceeds synchronously according to the system—important for the correct exercise sequence. The ball screw drive from Rodriguez installed in the Squeezebar ensures the even and smooth rotation of the spindle inside the handles. This reduces peak loads on the joints and optimizes the movement execution. This significantly contributes to targeted engagement of specific muscle groups, joint protection, and improved training quality.

For Rodriguez's developers, the challenge to solve for the Squeezebar was an interesting example of how versatile their linear technology can be, specifically the ball screw drives. Custom solutions are among the company's strengths—and even specialized industries such as training equipment, fitness, and competitive sports can benefit from it.