What if I told you that you can exercise while defying gravity and feeling weightless on our planet Earth! It sounds like science fiction, but it is actually a world-changing invention to help individuals with various exercise boundaries – it is called an Anti-Gravity Treadmill, also known as the AlterG. With having the same platform as a treadmill, the AlterG is unlike any other running equipment! The AlterG is patented technology created by NASA, that was originally made to help astronauts run in a more natural way while being in an environment without gravity. Patients that benefit the most from this exercise machine are those who want to develop high levels of mobility, progress their level of physical fitness, increase their range of motion, and who wish to improve their overall strength and endurance. The AlterG does not only improve the body’s natural mechanics, but also reduces stress on your bones, joints, and muscles. Keep reading to understand more benefits from an Anti-Gravity Treadmill.
Running on a traditional treadmill can be a great and healthy exercise, but can also have a negative impact on your bones, joints, and muscles. Most people don’t realize that running brings on high intense stress and pressure on your body, which can be damaging in the long run – especially on your knees. The Anti-Gravity Treadmill uses unweighting technology to help patients achieve their optimal workout. This process of unweighting starts with putting on specialized shorts to create an airtight seal once zipped into the air chamber surrounding the AlterG Treadmill. Then a clinician will calibrate the machine to pressurize the chamber to unweight you and allow you to run pain-free and without impeding your natural gait mechanics. With the AlterG unweighting up to 80% of a patient’s body weight- reducing the stress and shock on your lower body. This technology can benefit everyone, from patients recovering from knee surgery to professional athletes looking to increase their running speed. Experiencing the Anti-Gravity Treadmill is for every “body”.
The AlterG Treadmill may sound intimidating, but it is a safe and comfortable experience for helping patients recover from injury or surgery. While in the AlterG you will be surrounded by a safety bar to use for support and balance and will have a clinician by your side to guide you through your run- adjusting your speed and pressure to create the ideal running experience. Patients who exercise with the AlterG Treadmill experience can focus on getting the most out of their workout rather than worrying about falling or joint pain.
The AlterG treadmill provides patients with a painless, controlled, low-weight bearing form of exercise in the early stages of recovery. Studies have shown that returning to motion as early as possible can help reduce muscle atrophy, decrease swelling, and improve patient results post-surgery or injury. Using the AlterG when recovering from an injury or surgical procedure will help you recuperate faster while improving your cardiovascular fitness. By reducing the harmful effects of gravity on the body, you can now stay active while improving your range of motion and strength. Being in recovery does not mean you have to be a couch potato – exercise your muscles with the painless treatment of the AlterG.
Protect your body while exercising with the use of the AlterG. At IMPACT Physical Therapy, we provide the best treatment, advanced technology, and professional guidance to help all of our patients reach their goals. We offer an array of services spanning physical therapy, recovery, and fitness. If you would like to learn more about the AlterG and how it can help you improve your range of motion, muscle strength, or have a healthier lifestyle. Contact our South Loop Location today to schedule an AlterG session.
