Our website is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn a commission when you click through the affiliate links on our website at no extra cost to you.
Imagine having the capabilities of 6 gym machines in 1 sleek, space-saving piece of equipment. That’s what you get with the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD. Its innovative design allows for vertical storage, making it a perfect fit even in the most space-constrained environments, like a single-car garage-turned-home gym.
But don’t let the compact design fool you. Despite its size, the Nordic Hyper GHD packs a hefty punch. Designed to be a posterior chain virtuoso, this particular gym machine is a game changer for me.
In this Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD review, I’ll tell you everything there is to know about it, including the specs, exercises that can be done with it, and my overall experience.
Key Takeaways
- The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD offers unparalleled versatility in a home gym setting, functioning as multiple pieces of gym equipment in one.
- Its sturdy build quality and ability to support various user sizes endorse the machine’s durability and inclusive design.
- Despite minor critiques, the overall design has been well-received, particularly for its multipurpose functionality.
- For the advanced athlete to the aging fitness enthusiast, the machine’s progressive nature promises year-round training and development.
- The compact and space-efficient design of the Freak Athlete Hyper GHD Machine suits modern living spaces and busy lifestyles.
Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD: First Thoughts
When it comes to elevating my garage home gym, nothing is more important to me than functionality. Because of space constraints, every piece of equipment I buy must do two things: deliver unparalleled results and have a relatively small footprint.
And for those reasons, that’s why the Nordic Hyper GHD originally caught my eye. Released mid-2023, it promotes itself as being a full-featured, 6-in-1 powerhouse that can bulletproof your backside muscles. But that’s not all, when positioned upright, it only occupies a 2ft x 2ft piece of precious floor real estate.
But like most multi-function, do-it-all gym machines, I asked myself, “Is this just another Jack of all trades, master of none?”.
Well, I’m pleased to report that after using the Nordic Hyper for a month, it has seamlessly become an essential part of my workout routine. Yes, in most regards, it delivers on its promises in spades and I couldn’t be happier with it.
Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD Specs
| Footprint | 56″ L x 23″ W x 22″ H |
| Shipping weight | 114 lbs |
| Product weight | 105 lbs |
| User weight limit | Up to 500 lbs |
| User height range | 5′ – 7′ |
| Frame materials | 14-gauge steel base and tubing; 8-gauge steel footplate |
| Padding materials | Textured vinyl covering |
| Return policy | 100-day guarantee |
Initial Setup
When the Nordic Hyper GHD arrives at your doorstep, expect it to arrive all packed up into a single, oversized box. I don’t know who’s packaging these things, but they’re no doubt a Tetris master. I was quite impressed by how well everything was meticulously arranged. The best news was when I unboxed mine, there wasn’t a scratch or dent to be found on any of the equipment.
Setting up your Nordic Hyper GHD is not a Herculean task. Clear instructional videos provide a step-by-step assembly process so that you can swiftly move from unboxing to first use.
Although it doesn’t require the assistance of another person, it is helpful. Joining two hunks of metal together while snugging down bolts can be a bit of a juggling act.
Total Setup Time: ~30-45 minutes depending on your skill level.
“Assembly was seemless. I’ve used a bunch of workout products and assembly is always stressful. The Nordic hyper came with everything labeled and the accompanying video was a breeze to follow.”
Jose A (verified buyer freakathlete.com)
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to my home gym, selecting equipment that is both durable and functional is paramount. In my opinion, given the price point, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD’s overall quality is more than acceptable. It’s certainly on par with my FTX functional trainer.
Built on a foundation of 14-gauge steel base and tubing, complemented by an 8-gauge steel footplate, there’s nothing flimsy about it. In case you’re worried that it won’t support your weight, it’s been stress-tested up to 1250 lbs!
While 100% stable, I do agree with some of the user feedback, that at times a small wobble or flex is present under load. But from my experience, there’s nothing to be alarmed about or safety concerns.
As a whole, the fit and finish is spot on. Sure, Freak Athlete could have used higher gauge steel or perhaps insisted on cleaner welds, but to do so would only drive the price up. Way up.
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD In Action
Before writing this review, I wanted to put the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD through its paces. It was my goal to test out how well it hits the mark with its signature 6-in-1 design. You know, to make sure the marketing wasn’t just hype.
So let’s talk about my experience performing various exercises.
Nordic Curls
If performing Nordic curls is your jam, you’re going to absolutely love the progressive settings this machine offers. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned bodybuilder, the 10 incremental settings allow you to start where you feel most comfortable.
If a flat, zero-degree Nordic isn’t challenging enough, you can even put the bench in a declined position to increase the intensity even more.
There’s no question, Nordics are HARD! And if you want a machine that will progressively assist you to get better at them, this one does it very well.
GHD
The Nordic Hyper can easily convert to a GHD when you attach the half-dome pad. It is easily attached to the padded board with velcro straps.
Overall the movement is a little awkward as you sit on top of the pad and extend backward but it gets the job done.
QL Raises
QL Raises, in my opinion, look like you’re striking a pose for the camera. In reality, they’re setting your lower back and side muscles on fire.
With minimal adjustments to the Nordic Hyper, you can get everything positioned for this crazy effective exercise in seconds.
Back Extensions
The back extension is done by setting the bench to the standard 45-degree angle. You can always change the intensity by lowering it down too.
Just make sure to adjust the pad so that it sits right at your hip to allow you to get a full range of motion.
Hip Thrusts
Looking to have the coveted bubble butt so many seem to have on IG? The hip thrusts are 100% essential.
The leg roller can take a break from holding your feet and is instead used to support your back and shoulders as you raise and squeeze your glutes.
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD has not only garnered attention for its diverse functionality but also from genuine reviews from real-world usage by verified customers.
With only 4 and 5-star reviews on their website, people who have bought it have nothing but positive things to say. Go beyond the website and head to the online forums and the same sentiments are found there too.
Analyzing the Cost-Benefit Ratio: Is the Nordic Hyper GHD worth it?
The fitness industry being what it is, there’s never a shortage of new products that promise big but underdeliver. I just don’t think that’s the case in this instance.
The real talking point is the cost-benefit ratio. What the user gains in versatility, practicality, and fitness outcomes significantly outweighs the cost. Priced well under $1,000, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD, to me, stands out in the market. As far as I know, there’s just nothing else like it.
And consider this, if you were to purchase a dedicated GHD like the one from Rogue, that alone will set you back $740. That’s $40 more than the Nordic Hyper GHD and it only has one function. Put in those terms, the Freak Athlete is a steal.
100-Day Money Back Guarantee: A Testimony of Confidence
Backing up every sale with a substantial 100-day money-back guarantee, Freak Athlete not only showcases confidence in their product but also prioritizes user satisfaction.
The stature of the guarantee speaks volumes, offering consumers the confidence to take the leap without second-guessing the quality or value proposition of their investment. And should anything break? No worries. It’s also backed by a 2-year warranty against any defects.
Tips on Care and Preservation of Nordic Training Equipment
First things first, a regular cleaning routine is crucial. Sweat and dust can be corrosive over time, so wiping down your equipment after each session is a simple yet effective practice.
However, it’s not just cleanliness that matters; you’ll also need to be vigilant about the mechanical aspects. Regular inspections can help identify any loosening bolts or signs of wear.
Final Thoughts on the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD: Is It Right for You?
For someone like me who owns a small home gym, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is the one piece of equipment I needed but didn’t know it. I truly believed deadlifts and squats were enough for my posterior chain muscles. After a few uses of the Nordic, I realized I was wrong.
So whether you’re carving out a corner of your living room for a workout space or decking out a dedicated home gym, this multi-functional machine fits the bill.
FAQ
What are the dimensions and weight capacity of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD measures 56″ L x 23″ W x 22″ H and weighs 105 lbs. It supports user weights up to 500 lbs and is designed to accommodate individuals ranging from 5′ to 7′ tall.
Can the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD be stored easily?
Yes, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD has a compact design that includes a vertical storage option, measuring 26″ x 23″, making it suitable for smaller spaces like a one-car garage gym.
What are the key construction materials of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
The machine is constructed with a 14-gauge steel base and tubing, and an 8-gauge steel footplate. It has a powder-coated and galvanized steel finish for durability and textured vinyl padding for comfort and grip.
What type of exercises can be performed on the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is multifunctional, allowing you to perform a wide range of exercises such as glute ham raises, Nordic bench work, back extensions, reverse hypers, hip thrusts, and sit-ups.
How does the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD ensure adaptability for different body types?
It offers 12 distinct positional adjustments and the ability to progress through 10 different incline increments for exercises like Nordic curls, accommodating athletes of various heights and strength levels.
What is the price point of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD and what does it include?
The Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is competitively priced under $1,000 and includes a sturdy multi-functional machine with a 100-day money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.
How complicated is the assembly of the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
The assembly is straightforward and can typically be completed in about 30 minutes. It comes with all the necessary tools, and instructional videos are available online to assist with setup.
Are there any maintenance tips for the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD?
To maintain the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD, it is advised to conduct routine inspections for any signs of loosening or wear and tear. The brand offers service and part replacements as needed to ensure the equipment’s durability and performance.
Does the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD offer a warranty or satisfaction guarantee?
Yes, the Freak Athlete brand provides a 100-day money-back guarantee to demonstrate their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. A 2-year warranty applies should anything break.
Is the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD suitable for both rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement?
Absolutely, the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD is versatile enough to be used by physical therapists for patient rehabilitation and by athletes and trainers for enhancing performance in sports and fitness.
Editor-In-Chief at Recovatech. Dr. Ben is a board-certified Doctor of Chiropractic with over 10 years of clinical experience. He specializes in structural and neurological imbalances with an emphasis on functional movement patterns, exercise performance, and muscle recovery. He has been the team chiropractor for professional baseball and soccer organizations, as well as collegiate athletes. In his personal life, he’s always been driven when it comes to athletics and personal performance.