The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is quickly gaining traction in the home gym community as a multi-functional powerhouse. Combining the benefits of a Nordic curl bench, GHD, back extension, reverse hyper, and hip thrust machine, this versatile piece of equipment promises to replace multiple bulky machines and save valuable space. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the build quality, functionality, and overall performance of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD to see if it truly deserves a spot in your home gym.
Overview of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is designed to offer a range of exercises that typically require several different machines. Its compact design aims to tackle Nordic curls, glute ham raises, back extensions, reverse hypers, hip thrusts, and even Bulgarian split squats—all in one unit. This flexibility makes it especially appealing for home gym owners who want to maximize their workout options without overcrowding their space.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 56″ X 23″ X 22″
- Weight: 105 lbs
- Adjustability: 14 incline/decline settings at 5° increments
- Weight Limit: 500 lbs per exercise setup
- Suitable Athlete Height: 5ft to 7ft tall
- Material: 14 gauge steel for the frame, 8 gauge steel for the footplate
- Storage: Stores upright, saving space when not in use
- Warranty: Lifetime manufacturer warranty with a 100-day return window
Build Quality and Assembly
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD impresses right out of the box with its sturdy construction. Made from 14-gauge steel for the base frame and tubing, with an 8-gauge footplate, the machine feels solid and reliable. The powder-coated finish ensures durability and helps protect the equipment from rust and wear, especially if your gym is in a garage or basement environment.
Assembly is straightforward, taking about 30 minutes with clear instructions provided. One notable feature is that the machine uses the same size bolts and nuts throughout, simplifying the assembly process. The included tools work, but for a smoother setup, using your own ratchets and wrenches is recommended.
Performance and Versatility
1. Nordic Curls
Nordic curls are a standout feature of this machine, with adjustable angles ranging from flat to a 45-degree incline, allowing users of all strength levels to progress safely. The back roller can also be adjusted to fit various foot sizes, making it accessible for athletes of different heights. Stability during use is solid, though some side-to-side wobble can occur when not in use. However, this doesn’t impact the safety or performance during actual workouts.
2. Glute Ham Raises (GHD Functionality)
The GHD function is another key component of this machine. It comes with a dedicated GHD pad, allowing you to perform glute ham raises comfortably. The pad’s grippy material keeps you stable during workouts, while the roller pads provide necessary movement for exercises like hip thrusts. You can adjust the setup for different sizes and angles, which is a huge plus for athletes looking to fine-tune their glute and hamstring training.
3. Back Extensions
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD allows for both angled and flat back extensions. The adjustability is excellent, and the angles provide a great range of motion, making this exercise highly effective for targeting the lower back and glutes. The machine’s stability during back extensions is commendable, although the mechanism can occasionally catch during adjustment. A simple lift or repositioning usually resolves this, keeping workouts smooth and efficient.
4. Reverse Hypers
While marketed as offering reverse hypers, it’s important to note that this is more of a reverse hip extension rather than a true reverse hyper machine with a pendulum effect. The lack of swinging motion means it focuses more on controlled glute and hip activation rather than decompression of the lower back. For those specifically seeking a true reverse hyper experience, this may be a limitation.
5. Hip Thrusts and Bulgarian Split Squats
The hip thrust function works well, providing stability and adjustable pad heights that cater to different user needs. The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD can handle substantial weight, with no issue performing heavy sets. The split squat setup is also excellent, providing a comfortable and stable surface, making it a versatile addition for lower body training.
Storage and Mobility
One of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD’s most practical features is its ability to store upright, saving valuable floor space. Equipped with wheels, it can be easily moved around the gym. The wheels are sturdy enough for both indoor surfaces and turf, making it versatile if you need to relocate the machine frequently. When stored upright, the machine is stable and doesn’t feel like it will topple over easily.
Overall Design and Aesthetics
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is not just functional; it’s also visually appealing with a sleek, modern design. The cut-out branding and thoughtful layout of the machine show attention to detail that is often missing in multi-functional gym equipment. It looks great in a home gym setting, and the compact design ensures it won’t dominate the space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multi-Functional: Combines several key gym machines into one, saving space and money.
- Adjustability: Multiple angles and settings cater to a wide range of exercises and user sizes.
- Sturdy Build: High-quality materials ensure durability and stability during workouts.
- Space-Saving: Upright storage feature helps maximize gym space.
- Comprehensive Warranty: Lifetime warranty with a generous return policy.
Cons:
- Not a True Reverse Hyper: Lacks the pendulum effect found in dedicated reverse hyper machines.
- Learning Curve: Initial setup and adjustment can be confusing due to the numerous pop-pins.
- Wobble During Setup: Some side-to-side movement when not in use, though it does not impact safety during exercises.
- Limited Barbell Use: Not ideal for those looking to perform heavily loaded back extensions or hip thrusts with barbells.
Should You Buy the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is ideal for home gym enthusiasts looking to get the most out of their space without compromising on exercise variety. It’s not a commercial-grade machine, but it’s designed to meet the needs of serious home gym users who value versatility and compactness. If you’re looking to streamline your workout area and replace multiple machines with one efficient piece of equipment, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is a fantastic choice.
However, if your primary goal is heavy-duty training with reverse hypers or other specialized equipment, you might need to supplement this machine with dedicated pieces. Overall, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD delivers excellent value for the price and is a solid investment for any home gym setup.
Conclusion
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD stands out as a versatile, space-saving solution for a variety of lower body and core exercises. Its build quality, adjustability, and storage capabilities make it a standout choice for home gym owners who want to maximize their workout options. With a few minor drawbacks, it’s still one of the best multi-functional machines available on the market today. Whether you’re into powerlifting, CrossFit, or just general fitness, this piece of equipment will add significant value to your home gym experience.
Ready to elevate your home workouts? Check out the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD today and transform your training space!
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