The Resistance Exercise Device (RED) system on the Space Station is part of a "tripod" of equipment on board the Station that helps to offset that loss through muscle and strength training, aerobic activity and cardiovascular training. The Resistive Exercise Device simulates weight lifting in microgravity; a Treadmill with Vibration Isolation System (VIS), which is a modified treadmill for microgravity; and a Cyclergometer with VIS, which is a modified cycle for microgravity.
On the Station, the RED system is used to counterattack the muscular and skeletal problems brought on by extended time in microgravity. It's proven successful: The ISS ExpedThe same technology is used in the newer generation of Bowflex equipment. The crew completed more than 30,000 exercise repetitions on the RED during their 141-day stay in orbit.
The RED system is powered by lightweight, portable SpiraFlex® technology, which creates resistance by storing and delivering mechanical power. Here's how it works:
Special synthetic compounds called elastomers, which have the stretching properties of natural rubber, are molded into several patented shapes. Each shape creates a different type of resistance. By varying how these parts are used -- alone, linked together, or used in combination with other devices -- almost any type of exercise can be achieved.
Funded by NASA and developed at the Agency's research facilities, the same space-inspired technology is also available to help people on Earth stay in shape. Compared to equipment using traditional steel springs to create resistance, SpiraFlex technology provides three times the power of traditional equipment. It is also long-lasting, and does not corrode or conduct electricity like steel springs. Additionally, SpiraFlex is inexpensively manufactured, easily assembled and quietly operated because no metal parts are used.
For these reasons, SpiraFlex technology is now used in an international fitness program for health clubs and certain retail distributors. The program uses exercise machines powered by SpiraFlex for 45-minute resistance training sessions taught by a certified coach in a motivational environment.
The Best Workout on Earth, and in Space
SpiraFlex® is a revolutionary new patented technology for storing and delivering mechanical power in industrial, consumer, and fitness equipment. Kansas City-based SpiraFlex, Inc., invented and supplied this technology for use on the International Space Station, with assistance from Wyle Laboratories of Houston, Texas, and NASA's Johnson Space Center. NASA research facilities and funding helped to develop the Resistance Exercise Device (RED), powered by SpiraFlex. One of the primary reasons NASA selected SpiraFlex is that it duplicates the benefits of free-weights in a lightweight, portable, and safe system. This system is also used in the newer generation of Bowflex equipment.
During spaceflight, the musculoskeletal system of the human body undergoes changes in response to a microgravity environment. Astronauts can lose up to 19 percent of their bone mass during spaceflights of four to six months. This puts astronauts returning to Earth or arriving on Mars at a disadvantage. Although the effects of atrophy seem easily reversible, the effects of long-duration spaceflight are not yet known.
The RED system is presently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and is used by the crewmembers as a primary countermeasure against musculoskeletal degradation caused by microgravity. The ISS Expedition I crew completed over 30,000 exercise repetitions on the RED during their 141-day mission. Upon return to Earth, the astronauts were able to walk off the Shuttle under their own power.
SpiraFlex technology uses proprietary elastomer compounds that are molded into a range of patented shapes called FlexPacks,TM which create unique torsional resistance properties. These FlexPacks may operate alone, or linked in parallel or a series to output devices, such as pulleys or transmissions. This patented configuration allows almost any force curve to be achieved by manipulating the size of the part, number of spokes, durometer of elastomer compound, number of connected FlexPacks, and manipulation of output device, or transmission.
Pics:
-Treadmill
-Spiraflex
