Hey there, strength fans! We're back with Volume 8 of Community Chronicles, bringing you fresh stories from VOLTRA I users who are breaking the mold.
This month, we're stepping into powerlifter Cullen Murphy's home gym, where he's doing more with less. Cullen's twin VOLTRA I setup has him chasing a 585lb deadlift while actually decluttering his training space. Find out how Cullen discovered new ways to train that have him actually looking forward to accessory work!
Training Style & Evolution
Tell us about your training style and how it's evolved with the VOLTRA I.
My training methodology is mostly powerlifting centric, but I sprinkle in strongman events, calisthenics, and enjoy using machines. Since getting the VOLTRA I, I've programmed accessories much more frequently simply because it's just more fun than ever. I've been experimenting with different angles and resistance curves to keep the novelty stimulus going, which has really enhanced my overall training experience.
Creative Applications
We've seen your videos using the VOLTRA I for bicep curls, seated rows, lat pulldowns and more. What other creative applications have you discovered?
I'd say the most creative use has been turning my reverse hyper into a cable-driven reverse hyper. It completely transformed the movement from a momentum-based exercise into more of a conventional lift with controlled resistance throughout. Beyond that, it's been great for all the standard cable accessories - triceps, abs, rear delts - the list goes on forever. I keep finding new ways to use it, which keeps training fresh and engaging.
Most Impactful Feature
Which feature of the VOLTRA I has been most impactful for your training?
Definitely inverse chains. Matching the strength curve of pulling movements is amazing. Where science says the most force is 'optimal' isn't always your strongest position - it's often your weakest in many stretched positions. But with many pulling movements, it coincides with where you're the strongest, so it's the best of both worlds and feels fantastic. The resistance profile perfectly complements the natural strength curve of these movements.
Powerlifting-Specific Training
How have you utilized the variable resistance profiles for powerlifting-specific training?
I've added eccentric overload to barbell movements in mild doses, which has been great for building strength in positions where I'm typically weaker. I'm always adding at least a little variable resistance to accessories too. The VOLTRA accomplishes what flywheel systems struggled to do effectively. It gives me precise control over the resistance profile throughout the entire range of motion.
Future Improvements
What improvements or additional features would you like to see in future versions?
Definitely an Android app. It seems like Android users make up about half the market, myself included, so having native app support would be a significant improvement.
Advantage for Powerlifters
For powerlifters specifically, how would you say the VOLTRA I enhances training compared to traditional methods?
For a home gym, I think it's a very clear choice if you want the best. Zero footprint, the most versatility, and fine-tuning of strength curves. Traditional methods like bands or cables don't offer the same precision or range of resistance profiles. In practice, I think just the fun of using it keeps your accessory volume consistent and high, which is great for long-term development. It's turned accessories from something I'd often skip to something I look forward to.
Future of Strength Training
How do you see technology like the VOLTRA I shaping the future of strength training?
I think it's just a matter of time until this technology gets integrated in all sorts of ways. I imagine that between manufacturing and shipping a larger, heavier selectorized machine versus one that has a smaller footprint and custom strength curves, it'll eventually be an easy choice for equipment manufacturers. We're likely seeing the early stages of a major shift in how resistance training equipment is designed and implemented.
In the Setup
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VOLTRA I × 2
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REP squat rack
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Rogue plates/barbells
About Community Chronicles
Community Chronicles is a collection of stories and media from the Beyond Power community, designed to highlight bold and innovative ways in which our products are used. Periodically, editors will share setups, stories, or tips to better serve our growing community.
To get featured, share your content over on our Reddit, or contact us at support@beyond-power.com. We're always listening!
