The Nordstick Journey: From Necessity to Innovation

As a sports physical therapist, I've witnessed countless individuals struggle with injuries—many of which could have been prevented with proper hamstring strength. This was especially true during my time at a Division I university, where hamstring injuries were a frequent setback for football players.

The challenge? The high cost and limited functionality of existing equipment made it difficult for athletes and everyday people to access the right tools for effective prevention.

Why Nordstick?

I created Nordstick out of necessity. Traditional Nordic benches, costing upwards of $600, were financially unreasonable for many and provided only a single exercise solution. Moreover, the common alternative—having a friend hold your feet—proved unreliable and inconvenient.

I needed a practical, affordable solution that people could use independently without compromising their doors or safety.

Initial Prototype

The journey began with a DIY setup involving a rolling pin, a ratchet strap, and some padding—materials that cost me about $40 on Amazon. While this makeshift device was functional, it was far from ideal, often leaving marks on doors and being aesthetically unpleasing. This experience sparked my determination to design a more refined product.

Design Philosophy

My goal was simple: create a secure, comfortable, and affordable device to enable effective Nordic curls at home. Key design considerations included:

• Non-Damaging Door Anchor: To respect users' homes and ensure the device can be used anywhere without leaving a trace.

• Strength and Security: The device had to withstand significant force; hence, it was built with a steel inner core and a durable adjustable strap capable of supporting over 800 pounds—double what any human could exert.

• Comfort: We understood that discomfort could deter use, so we incorporated thick, supportive foam to prevent the strap from digging into the user’s legs.

Impact and Reception

Since its launch, Nordstick has sold over 150,000 units, helping countless individuals strengthen their hamstrings effectively. This tool not only fosters physical health but also represents a leap in accessible, home-based fitness equipment. The success of Nordstick has propelled our family business forward, enabling us to develop more innovative fitness solutions.

Why Nordic Curls?

Nordic curls are a powerhouse for hamstring strengthening, akin to push-ups or pull-ups for upper body strength. They utilize body weight to enhance muscle endurance and strength effectively. While not a panacea, strong hamstrings play a crucial role in reducing injury risks, particularly by supporting the knee and potentially protecting the ACL by controlling the anterior translation of the tibia.

Looking Forward

The Nordstick is just the beginning. It embodies our commitment to making fitness accessible and effective, underscoring our philosophy that strength is protective. It’s my hope that every home has a Nordstick, allowing more people to incorporate this essential exercise into their routines, significantly impacting their health and athletic performance.

Stay tuned as we continue to innovate and expand our product line, driven by lessons learned through the Nordstick's development and the feedback from our incredible community.