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Customer Reviews

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ShouldeRök™

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ABOUT THE SHOULDEROK 

The ShouldeRok™ was designed to increase shoulder strength, core stability, and rotational strength, as well as encourage proper spinal position and shoulder mobility/function. 


This product will help:

 

  • Retrain your nervous system to ensure a stable, braced, neutral spinal position for maximal and safe performance under a heavy load.

  • Improve scapular and overall shoulder mobility, especially for athletes with impingement due to years of wear and poor movement.

  • Increase rotational strength and athleticism in pulsing (speed to contraction and speed to relaxation).

  • Reinforce correct breathing to further support spinal bracing for ALL heavy lifts and movements that require transfer of power from the ground into an implement (ball, bat, club, etc). It is impossible to utilize the ShouldeRok to its full potential without utilizing proper breathing and bracing techniques. The ShouldeRok provides an effective way for the athlete to develop efficient, significant power transfer through his or her core.

 The ShouldeRok is a game-changing strength tool for athletes, coaches and practitioners alike. When used correctly, the precision-loadable ShouldeRök will increase strength, mobility, and reinforce core stabilization.

 
Learn the ShouldeRok basics in this short video: 






         

Soft Tissue Mobilization

The ShoulderRok's machined end makes it a versatile IASTM soft tissue tool, both for self-use and partner-assisted tissue work. Watch the video below to learn how the ShouldeRok can be a powerful recovery aid.

 

Learn how the ShouldeRok can be utilized for soft tissue work:

 


  

Important Notes: 

  • ALERT- Due to COVID19 & other issues, USPS delivery for international orders can take 30-60 days and may not have tracking updated after leaving the US.  UPS is not having these issues.
  • Traveling? Check out the portable, breakdown version of the ShouldeRok.
  • All International Customers (including Europe) may be responsible for additional customs duty and import fees.
  • Australia, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Estonia, South Africa Customers:  You must select UPS Worldwide Expedited Shipping due to your country's length restrictions.
  • Have a question? Click the grey "Question?" button above to go to the Q&A section at the bottom of this page to see if your question has been answered.

 

Included with Your Purchase: 

 

BREAKDOWN VERSION:

This version of the ShouldeRok features a split main shaft with a threaded connection between the two, allowing for the unit to breakdown and fit compactly in a carry-on bag or backpack. Each piece is 24" long. Additionally,6" of knurl has been added to the "head" part for use as an "Indian Club" type implement. The "handle" piece has 14" of knurling. To select this version, use the "Finish-Type" dropdown at the top.  

 


PLATING OPTIONS:

 

Regular Zinc - This is the regular finish that your ShouldeRok will have. Shiny and bright on arrival with a hue that varies from bluish to brownish. As the bar is used this coating will develop dull, gunmetal grey patina. Least expensive and a very durable option. 

 

Bright Nickel- This is a premium finish. Nickel Plating is used in engineering applications where high wear, corrosion resistance, and hardness are needed. Nickel plating is both more cosmetically appealing than stainless steel as well as significantly more corrosion resistant in like products than stainless steel! Nickel plating is more durable than chrome and will retain it's warm, mirror smooth polish for years until worn through.  In our application, we believe Nickel plating to be both superior to Stainless steel in Cosmetic Finish, Corrosion Resistance, Surface Hardness, as well as maintaining the desired strength and material characteristics of our bar. Nickel is our favorite plating option, and in our opinion also the best looking.

 

Black Oxide - Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add mild corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. We particularly like the gunmetal black finish it gives to the Shoulderok.

 

 

The Origins and Historical Roots of the ShouldeRok


Learn more about the story behind the ShouldeRok in this essay by Kabuki Co-Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, Chris Duffin

 

The Macebell or Gada is a classical training tool dating back centuries.  Its original use can be traced back to the wrestling and fighting practices of ancient Persia and India.  My journey with mace training started when I began to accumulate joint wear and tear from years of strength training. I had been making tremendous gains in shoulder health and mobility progressing with Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and some associated kettlebell work.  I decided to try the mace swing with a focus on refinement of the movement based on the DNS methodologies.  The goal was to simply cultivate training efficiency utilizing the swing was a very active warmup.  If I could accomplish my rehab, prehab, and warmup all at the same time I would have more time to focus on my actual training.

 

With the new approach to the swing, the shoulder pain that I had been experiencing daily for 8 years disappeared after the first 30 days of my swinging protocol.  This was pain that had kept me from sleeping, pain that interfered with my training, and pain I was only able to manage in the short term with mobilizing and re-seating drills.  That pain was gone!  I couldn’t believe the change. 



Being surrounded by powerlifters and strongman athletes, I found several other test subjects similar to myself and quickly found that the same thing happened when they utilized the mace work. That was when I decided to develop the tool now known as the ShouldeRök

 

One of the ShouldeRok's features distinguishing it from similar strength training tools is its easy loadability. Another simple but significant feature of the ShouldeRok is its length. Most products of this type are shorter, which allows for the same weight to be used across a broader spectrum.  This approach compromises the effectiveness of their products, but is required for those selling 'fixed bells' or other devices.  The length of the ShouldeRök is designed to maximize balance as well as the eccentric opening and the requirements for muscle engagement and stability.  The ShouldeRök is simply a superior product for this reason.

 


A lot of people regard the ShouldeRok as a mobility tool and they are really missing the boat as to the true value it provides.  Mobility is an output but it is achieved through developing strength and stability with the proper integration of shoulder to core interactions.  The strength and stability are achieved with the proper cueing patterns and core stabilization while applying dynamic load as the shoulder moves through its entire range of motion.  Additionally, all of the supporting muscles of the shoulder girdle are engaged and develop with use of the ShouldeRok, particularly as you add progressive load.

  

The ShouldeRök and ShouldeRök method provide strength development, improve stability and shoulder to core integration, and increase mobility.  These improvements are made all with the use of a fun and highly efficient warm up or cool down to any workout.

 

Over the next year and a half after realizing these changes in my shoulder health I continued to refine the DNS inspired cues and approach to the swing.  I also put on my engineering hat and decided to improve the product itself.  I lengthened the bell and improved the balance with proper material selection giving it a very unique swing characteristic compared to others on the market.  We had some shot loadable bells in the gym but it was such a pain to change the weight that it was never done.  With micro-loading progression and small weight differences making a big impact between one athlete to the next, I felt that changing weights quickly was a critical piece.  I chose to have it plate loadable with Olympic plates.  This allowed for developing a loading method that would ensure the safety of the lifter and those around them.  Having a weight fly off the end of a bell just wasn’t acceptable, or compromising the proper handle size to use 1” plates.  For comfort and control, I added knurling and flaring of the handle.  The handle has 14" of knurling so that shorter lifters can choke up on the handle and use it as a shorter device.

 

The ShouldeRök was branded as a separate product than just a macebell due to the unique nature of the specific coaching cues that are provided to customers and significant design refinement of the product.  It is simply the best product of its type on the market and video series with it was developed by one of the best strength athletes and strength coaches in the world today.

 

Watch an in-depth video on ShouldeRok technique:



 

Reviews:

 

LONG TERM SHOULDEROK REVIEW ON BODYBUILDING.COM FORUM

This is a great user-submitted review on the Bodybuilding.com forum on the Shoulderok and it's use.

 

IMPROVE SHOULDER MOBILITY AND LOOK LIKE CONAN THE BARBARIAN

Craig Marker, Ph.D., CSCS, SFGII, is a fitness enthusiast who has spent his life trying to help people improve their lives. He is a professor at Mercer University teaching psychology and research methods.

 

GARAGE GYM REVIEWS – SHOULDEROK

I’ve created this site to provide honest reviews as well as instructions for DIY equipment. There is an absolutely absurd amount of equipment available for purchase today, and I will help guide you through what is worth using, and what is not.

 

MASSENOMICS REVIEWS – SHOULDEROK

Here is the official Massenomics review of the ShouldeRok made by Chris Duffin. We took a look at the quality of the product, as well as its usefulness.  Massenomics is in no way affiliated with Chris Duffin or Kabuki Strength, so rest assured this review is straight from the heart.

 

LEGACY STRENGTH SYSTEMS REVIEW

Athlete and Trainer Pete Arroyo reviews the MRI Findings of his numerous shoulder issues and discusses his experiences with the ShouldeRok allowing him to train.  As well as his experiences with his athletes.  He also shares a piece on how he includes the ShouldeRok in someone's training.
 

A CLINICIANS STORY WITH DMS AND THE SHOULDEROK

Dr Don Berry's story of ending 2 years of pain and frustration, immediately returning to lifting heavy, and improving his impact on his clients with DMS

 

  
Testimonial

The ShouldeRök™ was instrumental in my rehab of a shoulder injury as well is the ongoing maintenance afterwards.  In combination with the Duffalo Bar it has been a 'Game Changer' in this Olympic training cycle.

Reese Hoffa - 3x Olympian in the Shot Put

  

   


Customer Reviews

Based on 109 reviews Write one!

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Ask a Question
  • Is there a user height and bar length correlation? I'm 5ft 8in and wondering if I should buy this one or wait for the shorter one.

    Although shorter users may have issues with the device, these can be avoided by holding the Shoulderok higher up the shaft (although this will affect the swing dynamics a bit). For your height (5'8") however, there should be no issue at all. 

  • How would this work post labrum surgery?

    First of all I just want to preface this by saying I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. That being said, often times when people are having various sholderok issues it's often one of a few things. Either trauma, too much stress/not enough recovery, and or poor movement. Poor movement is something that often leads to added unnecessary stress which in turn becomes harder for the body to repair and will cause a subsequent breakdown over time. This is where the shoulderok can be a useful tool. Using it is not going to repair your torn/damaged tissues, there is already structural damage done. If you're moving in a way that is causing your shoulders to break down extra over time that needs to be stopped/corrected. This is where the usefulness of the shoulderok comes in. It is a tool that will teach you to use your shoulder in conjunction with your core. This is very important because a lot of people are moving their joints off an an unstable base, which the core is suppose to be. Without this proper integration of the core the body, and subsequently the joints, lack stability. When there is a lack of stability, movement breaks down and added stress is placed on the structures. So as I said the shoulderok isn't going to cause your tissues to be repaired, but it can assist in removing the root cause that got you to that point in the first place and hopefully put the body in a scenario that allows it to heal itself more effectively. With all of that said, as I mentioned this is not medical advice nor a promise for the shoulderok to cure your issues. You would want to make sure that doing things like swinging the shoulderok are not going to cause more harm. If you lack the range of motion to get the shoulderok behind your head without compromising position, it is going to hurt not help. If doing things like swinging the shoulderok cause pain, it is likely going to be making it worse not better.

  • Does the ShouldeRok come with any additional weight to start? How heavy is the actual bar? If it doesn't come with weighting options, how does one go about adding resistance to it when they are ready? Thanks :)

    The Shoulderok comes by itself (along with the nut) and weighs 8lbs. You can easily add weight using olympic-sized (regular gym size) plates from 2.5lbs up to 10lbs (25 if you are feeling brave). The ability for users to micro-load the Shoulderok is essential to its function and the user's progression in the swing. If 2.5lb jumps are too big, you can purchase smaller weights online (amazon) or use large washers which have the same diameter inner-hole as a plate. Hope this helps! 

  • Is there an inherent difference between the zinc, black oxide, and nickel coatings? I am particularly asking about a situation where the ShouldeRok will be in a climate-controlled space. My main point of concern is 'grip' and potential rust.

    Hi there, 

    All of the coatings are rust resistent.  The strongest finish is the nickel, followed by the zinc, and then the black oxide.  If you are in a particularly wet environment, I would recommend the nickel.  In a climate-controlled space, you can't really go wrong with any of the finishes.

  • Hello there.... Looking to purchase the black powder coated shoulderok....... Any info on how to or wait time??

    Unfortunately, due to some plating issues we've had to stop producing and selling the black oxide Shoulderok. There is something in the works that may interest you, stay tuned! 

  • What is the shoulderok loadable to? I'm looking to get some heavier maces but may just get this.

    This depends on the size of the plates and their thickness. If you use calibrated plates, you can fit much more weight than can possibly be swung (4x 10kg plates can fit easily). We regularly fit up to 50lbs with regular plates, and we've even seen our head coach Chris Duffin swing 45lb plates before! 

  • How long is the shoulderok?

    The full length is 48" or 4 feet exactly. 

  • Will this help an old weightlifter improve shoulder mobility and stability in the catch position of the snatch?

    Absolutely! Our tool is actually used by many archers and shooters for that same reason you mentioned - stability in the shoulder, which for them is important as they seek marksmanship and precision in their sport. 

  • Do you sell the short version of the shoulder rok?

    Yes, the Tactical Shoulderok is a break-down unit that can be used as an Indian Club. See here:
    https://store.kabukistrength.net/products/tactical-shoulderok

  • I live in Portland, can I just pick it up in Clackamas? Or is it being shipped from somewhere else? Also, you mention that there is something "in the works," so is it worth waiting for? Thanks! Stanley

    We're more than happy to do local pickups, just shoot us an email with when you want to come by so we can make sure we have one in stock and have one available for you!

  • is the shoulderok available in the UK? If you ship to the UK how much is the postage ? many thanks in advance cheers Spud

    We do ship to the UK. Shipping to the UK for the shoulderok is generally around $70. If you being to go through the checkout process it will give you exact costs to ship to your address

  • Am awaiting Broomstick you have sent to the UK. Can you ship the shoulderok to the UK as well?

    We can indeed!

  • What are the advantages-disadvantages in regard to the 3 finish types of the Shoulderok? Dia. of plates used to load? Thank you

    The different finishes all have slightly different properties that I'll detail out here: 

    Zinc - this is the cheapest of the finish options, and will provide excellent corossion resistance, but does dull from a shiny blueish silver color to a gunmetal grey over time (while still being corossion resistant).

    Black Oxide - this is our less corossion resistant finish, but still provides plenty of protection assuming the shoulderok isn't being stored in a humid area or coming in contact with water and being left wet. 

    Nickel - similar to zinc, the nickel finish provides plenty of corossion resistance but is also harder and more durable. The other advantage to the nickel plating is that it holds its "shine" much longer than the zinc does.

    The plates used to load the shoulderok are just standard barbell plates (2 inch hole) 

  • Does the SholdeRok breakdown version comes with the plastic travel case like it did at the beginning or it has been removed?

    The Tactical ShouldeRok was discontinued a couple of years ago, due to difficulties acquiring the cases and quality assurance issues when we did.  The product was rebranded as the portable ShouldeRok and no longer comes with a case.  However, I have heard of people using pelican cases, instrument cases and even large tool boxes as cases and then just creating their own foam inserts.  It depends on how DIY you want to get.

  • Which direction is the Nut on the shoulder threaded clockwise or counterclockwise. Mine arrived stuck and I don't want to force it in the wrong direction.

    To remove the nut, turn it counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey).  To tighten the nut, turn it clockwise (righty-tighty).  If you have access to one, try using a deadblow hammer to strike the nut in the counter-clockwise direction.  A rubber mallet will work, as well.  Neither of those will harm the nut itself.

  • Is this made in America?

    Yes, it is.  Right here in Clackamas, Oregon.

  • Does the breakdown version of shoulder roc come in different finishes? If so, how do I select? What are the options? What are the prices? Thanks!

    The portable ShouldeRok only comes in black oxide finish.

  • How much does it weigh?

    The ShouldeRok weighs about 9lb.

  • I’m a 4’ 11” female. I’m very interested in getting this unit, but am concerned with the length. I’m a little worried this may be too long for me to use for optimum effect. Is there a shorter unit available?

    There is not a shorter unit available.  However, our Coach Cassandra is 4'11" and 110lb (when she is not 9+ months pregnant) and she uses the ShouldeRok, if that helps.  That being said, we would not suggest it for an athlete under 4'10".  That is about the limit for comfort.

  • How much weight can be loaded onto it

    That depends on the thickness of the plates you are using.  Deep dish will take up a lot of space, so you will not be able to load as much weight as you would if you used calibrated steel kilo plates.  This piece of equipment is made for increasing the stability and mobility of the shoulder girdle.  If you are looking to load as much as possible, you are not using it for the correct and intended purpose,  The internet may show athletes swinging 45lb and more, but that is absolutely not recommended or the standard.  We recommend starting with a 2.5 or 5lb plate and increasing the weight by 2.5lb increments.

  • For the "Breakdown" version, is there any "tail" attachment if you use the half as an "Indian" club? thanks!

    For the Portable ShouldeRok, the tail is permanently affixed to the end of the Rok.  There is no way to attach it to the 'top' end of the Rok.

  • I have osteoarthritis in my shoulders. The left one is bone on bone but I continue to train my shoulder as much as I can. High rep/lighter weight. I have been using indian clubs for years that help a lot. Do you think I can benefit from using the Shoulderok??

    Many people with pre-existing shoulder issues have benefitted from the increased mobility and stability training effects of the ShouldeRok.  We would suggest viewing the training videos that come with the Rok, starting with very light weight and moving up slowly by 2.5lb increments.

  • Hello I purchased my Shoulderrok 09/04/2021. Always have had stiff popping shoulders. After few days of swinging popping is gone, and not as stiff. I have had a AC joint sprain about 12 months still have pain in that right shoulder. I know my wrist are sore from jumping up in weight to fast/getting use to proper form. But the shoulder with ac joint is a little sore. Just would like some input. Love the product, and can’t wait to get home and swing.

    Cedric; Thank you so much for your feedback.  We are very glad to hear you are experiencing improvement with your shoulder issues by using the ShouldeRok.  As with any new exercise, there will be an adjustment period while your muscles adapt to the new movement.  This can result in slight discomfort after training.  This is why we stress that athletes start with light to no weight when using the ShouldeRok, in the supplied training videos.  This will give your muscles, ligaments and tendons time to gets used to the motion.  We would suggest dropping the weight to 2.5-5lbs for a few weeks and when you stop feeling discomfort, move up slowly by 2.5lb increments after that.

  • Hi, Do you ship to the United Kingdom? If not, is there somewhere / someone in the UK I can buy Kabuki products? Thanks! --Sanatan

    Unfortunately, we do not have an EU distributor for our products.  However, we absolutely ship anywhere UPS goes in the world.  Just enter your shipping address at check out and all applicable shipping options will autopopulate.

  • does this product come with free instructional videos? or are those add on prices? generally, can we learn from any mace video insrtuctions (from non kabuki people) and use the kabuki with it? the same exercises can generally be used with the shoulder rok and a standard mace?

    The ShouldeRok does come with in-depth instructional videos.

  • My nut and bolt is stuck and I am having a tough time removing it. Is there a way I can solve this issue?

    We suggest attempting to remove the nut by knocking it in the correct direction with a rubber mallet or a dead blow hammer.  This will apply force without damaging the nut itself.  I have heard of people using a smaller change plate to do the trick, but this may damage and leave dents in your nut and the plating.

  • Did you guys add a new logo to the shouldeRok? I notice a picture on Instagram and was curious. It has two ShouldeRok crossing, Also do the weights you guys offer fit the ShoukdeRok?

    The current version of the ShouldeRok does not have the design at the end of the Rok.  All Olympic-sized change plates will fit on the ShouldeRok, so the iron plates we manufacture will fit.

  • What finish is the portable shoulderrok?

    The portable ShouldeRok is the black oxide finish.

  • Hi guys, I'm preparing to buy the Shoulderok and have a few questions. I live on a small island in the Philippines and it's very humid and can be salty. I bought a Cerakote bar from Rogue and in less than 2 yrs it was completely rusted all over so bad that I had to strip the cerakote off. I accept that I will have rust issues, but would like the best option to avoid that if possible. So open to advice. Next, what's the weight of the foldable version in the box for shipping vs the single pc? Does it still come in the carry case like in Coop's review? I will be sending it to a shipping forwarder in the US, so need to know the exact weight in advance to calculate the shipping. The cary case seems like a good advantage. Also does the foldable version have the new mobility tool part on the tail? Many thanks

    For any humid environment, we would recommend our nickel finish.  It is the most corrosion-resistant plating option we offer.  You will want to treat it (and all of your barbells) with a light coat of 3in1 or mineral oil, applied with a cloth a number of times a year.  That will assist with corrosion resistance.  

    In regard to the Portable ShouldeRok, it does not come with a case.  Our Tactical ShouldeRok was the product that came with a case, but we had to remove that as an option over a year ago when COVID made case acquisition difficult and we had multiple quality issues with the cases that were delivered.  The price of the product was decreased and it was rebranded as the Portable ShouldeRok.  It does not come with a case or a 2.5lb weight now, but it does have the IASTM friendly end piece. 

    The Portable ShouldeRok weighs the same as the regular ShouldeRok at 9.4lb.  When it is packaged, it weighs about 10lb.

  • Will this be an effective too to retrain scapular movement? I have dealt with scapular clicking and grinding against the rib cage especially when raising the arm into an overhead position.

    We can’t guarantee that it would fix your specific medical issue and this isn’t medical advice, but people have used the ShouldeRok to retrain scapular movement with success in the past.

  • I am torn between the Nickel vs the Zinc. The zinc is rust resistant for the most part? I work out in my garage in the hot and humid Louisiana weather.

    Yes, there is very little difference between the zinc and nickel plating.  If you can store your equipment in a climate-controlled area and then use it in the garage, that would be best.  You can also treat it once a month with a light coat of mineral or 3in1 oil, applied with a cloth.  That will help keep corrosion at bay.

  • I've been dealing with multiple rotator cuff issues in my right shoulder, both front side and back side. After my first injury (front side), my shoulder has been incredibly stiff, barely being able to get into position for low bar squats and i can bare get my right arm on my back. Could the Shoulderrök help me regain my mobility and maybe even prevent future injury to my rotator cuff? Thanks you in advance.

    Yes, the ShouldeRok is something you need to add to your equipment list! Shoulder stability and mobility are the main purpose of this amazing tool. There are plenty of regressions you can do, from the full swing if your shoulder is still too tight, to many others. We would encourage you to start with just the pendulum action and then work into full swings. When you’re comfortable working into single-arm swings, as well. Also, don’t forget the soft tissue capabilities of the rounded end.  Our coaching staff has put out multiple videos on KABUKI.MS and the coaching Instagram page, on how you can use that end to open up and increase mobility with some self soft tissue work.
     
    As far as injury prevention, there are multiple things at play there. However, if you continue to injure yourself because of lack of mobility, diligently using this tool could definitely help you stay more mobile and healthy, thus potentially decreasing the risk of future injury.

  • Do y'all do will call pick ups in Portland?

    Yes, if you are local to the Portland area and would like to pick up at our Clackamas manufacturing facility, that is an option with most products.  Please reach out to our Customer Service Team at; info@kabukistrength.com with your name, billing address, telephone number and list of items you'd like to order with the information you'd like local pick-up.  They will create a draft invoice for the items with the shipping removed and correct notes for our Shipping Department.  Once you've paid for your order and the items are ready, our Shipping Manager will reach out to set up an appointment for you to collect your products.

  • I’m 6’ talk, my basement gym has 10’ ceilings. Should I be able to use the shoulderok in my basement? In other words will there be sufficient clearance?

    Unfortunately, no.  The ShouldeRok is 4 feet long and you will be gripping it at the base and swinging it over your head.  A 12 foot ceiling would be safe, but a 10 foot ceiling will be too short.

  • What is the weight of each of the two halves of the tactical/portable breakdown version?

    The entire Portable ShouldeRok weighs roughly 9.4lbs. This includes both sides of the handle and the nut.
     
    I will refer to the portion where the weight is loaded as the 'head' and the portion where your hands hold the tool as the 'handle'.
     
    The head weighs 5.5lbs without the nut and 6.2lbs with the nut.
     
    The handle weighs 3.2lbs.
     
    The head is 24 inches and has knurling on the first 6 inches.
     
    The handle has 14 inches of knurling and is just a little bit longer than that, due to the soft tissue bung at the end.  

  • Could the shoulderok help address shoulder blade issues such as a winging shoulder blade?

    The ShouldeRok won’t always address the underlying cause of this particular issue, but it can be a great maintenance tool for facilitating other changes you might need to make to help solve that issue.

  • I plan on buying the shoulderok but wanted to ask if the break down version is made with the black oxide or another finished type and also how durable is the break down version compared to the bright nickel finish.

    Yes, the portable ShouldeRok is the black oxide finish, which provides little to no corrosion-resistance.  If you are concerned about corrosion, I would highly recommend the nickel plating option.

  • I have a new Shoulder Rok and the nut has somehow become completely stuck to the top of device. It won't rotate at all. I didn't did anything weird to it, like bang it or something. It was just sitting in my workout room and when i went to use it it was stuck. I tried WD-40 to no avail. Is this a typical problem? Is there a recommended fix? I have been loving it otherwise!

    Sometimes the threads of the ShouldeRok get damaged over time during the loading of weight, if the plate is not supported by hand all the way down the shaft. I have also had experiences when someone would load a Rok and overtighten the nut.  It only needs to be finger tight.  When our ShouldeRok nuts get stuck in The Lab, we use a dead blow hammer or rubber mallet to knock them loose.  That way it won't dent the nut.  I have heard of people using a 5lb plate to knock them loose, but I wouldn't recommend that if you have access to a dead blow hammer or rubber mallet.

  • Does the Shoulderok come with any weights? Does your company offer Military Discounts?

    Unfortunately, the ShouldeRok does not come with any weights.  

    We absolutely have a military discount. We no longer release the code to the public, since our (former LEO) Tactical Sales Specialist, Charlie Ritchie, found customers using it that were not affiliated with any agency/department/unit.  So, just email her at charlie@kabukistrength.com and she will let you know what she needs as proof of service and assist you with your order.

  • What is the maximum number of plates that can be added? I want to avoid very wide plates (e.g., 25 lb) and want to know how heavy I can make it without using wide diameter plates.

    Hey Saman,

    This is going to depend on the with of your plates, but when subtracting the width of the nut to hold the plate on, there is 2.375" of loadable space.

  • I have had a Shoulderok for over a year now and use it 2-5 times/week. I have been using it with a 5 pound plate on it the whole time. I am wondering how to scale the weight and when to add more? I feel like I am not getting as many benefits as I was originally when I started with the 5 pounds. Thank you!

    Hey Torin,

     

    We recommend adding load in 2.5 lb increments as you're able to adapt to it. Another fun thing you can try is working on single arm swings with less load. 

  • For the ShouldeRök, are there any benefits to the different finishes (clear zinc, black oxide, bright nickel)? Or are they purely for aesthetics?

    The different finishes/plating options offer different levels of corrosion-resistance and protection.  The nickel finish is the most corrosion-resistant finish that we offer.  The zinc finish is the next level of corrosion-resistance and black oxide offers very little protection.  Therefore, if you live in a humid area, the nickel finish would be your best option.

  • I am 6'2", my ceiling height is about 9'6", do you think I will have issue with the Rok smacking into the ceiling?

    Yes.  For safety, you will want a minimum of 5 feet of overhead clearance for the ShouldeRok - just in case.

  • "The length of the ShouldeRök™ is designed to maximize balance as well as the eccentric opening and the requirements for muscle engagement and stability." Please explain what this means.

    This is meant to explain that the length of the ShouldeRok creates a long enough lever that it makes the swing smooth, but the lever being longer also makes the swing more challenging and creates higher demands on the muscles involved.

  • Hi does shoulderok ship to Taiwan?

    Yes, the ShouldeRok does ship to Taiwan.  Just enter your shipping address at check-out and all available shipping options will populate, so that you can select the best one for your needs.  Most of our international customers prefer UPS's Worldwide Expedited Shipping option, since it covers customs brokerage fees in most countries and has a pretty timely arrival.  Thank you.

  • How high of ceilings are required?

    It depends on how tall you are.  I am fine swinging the ShouldeRok in a room with a 10 foot ceiling (at 5'4), but my 6'7 friend would be cutting it a bit close.

  • Been greatly enjoying my black oxide ShoulderRök since 2017. I've noticed some very slight rusting, which is unusual as it's always indoors and away from moisture. Encountered an issue today with the nut freezing in place on top a 5-lb plate, won't budge. Before I take a monkey wrench to it and grease up the threads to avoid this issue in the future, do you have any tips or tricks for care and maintenance? Thanks.

    Rubbing the surface of your ShouldeRok down with mineral oil a couple of times per year will help prevent rust damage.  If it starts to build up, just use a wire brush lightly over the surface until you no longer see the discoloration.  In terms of having the nut freeze on the threads, utilizing a dead blow hammer or rubber mallet will usually knock it loose with little to no damage.  Thread damage usually happens when someone in the gym is loading weight onto the ShouldeRok by dropping it down the shaft, rather than carefully supporting it by hand to the base.  Even when small weights are dropped into place, it damages the threads over time to the point the nut will no longer thread on, or off correctly.  Once the threads are compromised, there is not much anyone can do to fix the ShouldeRok, so be vigilant about teaching people how to load the ShouldeRok with care.

  • Am I going to have a hard time with the Shoulderok being that I’m 5’6?

    At 5'6 you won't have a hard time with the ShouldeRok, I promise.  I'm 5'4 and swing it comfortably.

  • I have severe scapular dyskinesia in my right shoulder and I'm curious if the Shoulderok could cure it? I find it near impossible to properly activate my serratus anterior and go through the correct mechanics when performing the corrective exercise such as weightless flat-on-ya'-back military presses. *It's worth noting that there's no pathology of thoracic nerve damage. Thank you, Kabuki!

    We cannot promise you any results.  However, we have yet to see a shoulder issue where the ShouldeRok hasn't at least provided some benefit.  Please read the reviews on our product, where you will see customers commenting on the positive results they've experienced with a multitude of shoulder issues using the ShouldeRok.

  • How do you add the weight?

    In order to add weight, you would remove the ShouldeRok nut, add 2.5lbs, 5lbs or whatever weight you prefer, then replace the nut.

  • Hi, I have a history with shoulder dislocations and am looking for a way to strengthen my shoulders. Of course the Shoulderok looks great for this purpose, but I am a bit worried of it actually causing dislocation, since it work through the unstable position of my shoulder. Do you have any experiences using the Shouderok for rehab of these kinds of issues? Best, Arjan

    Hello, if that position is one that causes issues with the disolcation of your shoulder, I would highly recommend checking with a PT or other physician before using the shoulderok. If you do end up trying the shoulderok as a solution, my advice is to just start slow in terms of weight and progress it at a reasonable rate starting with some of the more remedial swings that are detailed in the instructional videos that are included. 

  • Hi, I recently purchased and received a ShouldeRök and am still learning how to use it - but loving it so far! I have a question RE: programming and progression. If I start with an empty bar 3x/week, how much and how often should I increase weight? I'm not very strong, but I've got some Olympic-size change plates (down to 1.25#) so I can do some micro-loading. Thanks!

    A lot of this is going to be based on individual response, but increasing the loading by that 1.25 lbs every 1-2 weeks would be a good starting point. I would just let your technique be the limiter and continue to progress as you're able to without deviations in technique. You'll get to a point of diminishing returns eventually as there's likely not a point to increasing by that forever and trying to do 45 lb shoulderok swings. More is not always better and generally about 20-30 lbs is as heavy as anyone around here ever needs to go. 

  • How much weight can you add to the ShouldeRok?

    The shoulderok fits all standard sized plates and has 2.5" of loadable space, so it will depend on the thickness of your plates. 

  • Dear Sirs, I plan on buying a shoulderok I don't understand about adding weight were do I buy the weight or can I use my own weights and how do you put the weight on. Thanks Tim Rudd

    The Shoulderok fits standard olpymic sized plates (2.5/5/10/25/35/45)

  • I have past neck issues (disc bulge) and tightness in the scalenes/scm muscles as well as a TMJ dysfunction but it's getting better since I started strengthening my neck muscles. Would the ShouldeRök be something I can use or isnt it recommend for tight necks? Thanks Michaela

    First of all I just want to preface this by saying I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. That being said, often times when people are having various sholderok issues it's often one of a few things. Either trauma, too much stress/not enough recovery, and or poor movement. Poor movement is something that often leads to added unnecessary stress which in turn becomes harder for the body to repair and will cause a subsequent breakdown over time. This is where the shoulderok can be a useful tool. Using it is not going to repair your torn/damaged tissues, there is already structural damage done. If you're moving in a way that is causing your shoulders to break down extra over time that needs to be stopped/corrected. This is where the usefulness of the shoulderok comes in. It is a tool that will teach you to use your shoulder in conjunction with your core. This is very important because a lot of people are moving their joints off an an unstable base, which the core is suppose to be. Without this proper integration of the core the body, and subsequently the joints, lack stability. When there is a lack of stability, movement breaks down and added stress is placed on the structures. So as I said the shoulderok isn't going to cause your tissues to be repaired, but it can assist in removing the root cause that got you to that point in the first place and hopefully put the body in a scenario that allows it to heal itself more effectively. With all of that said, as I mentioned this is not medical advice nor a promise for the shoulderokto cure your issues. You would want to make sure that doing things like swinging the shoulderok are not going to cause more harm. If you lack the range of motion to get the shoulderok behind your head without compromising position, it is going to hurt not help. If doing things like swinging the shoulderok cause pain, it is likely going to be making it worse not better.

    https://kabukistrength.com/a-clinicians-story-with-the-duffin-movement-systems-the-shoulderok-2/  

  • Hi kabuki strenght I have gone through a herniated disc operation for 6months ago. Now I wonder if it is safe for me to use the shoulderrök.

    I would consult your healthcare provider as recovery times for that sort of operation are highly individual. If you're able to do the movement without pain and compensation then it is likely that you would be fine to start, but again please talk to your healthcare provider first.

  • The nut that tightens the weight down on the shoulder rock will it loosen after a 100 rep set

    That is a new question/issue that we have not encountered yet, but you can place a locking collar on top of the nut for added security

  • What is the overall length?

    The total length is 48 inches

  • How much does the bar alone weigh ?

    The Shoulderok unloaded is 9lbs.

  • Any possibility we can get a case for the break down version?

    Unfortunately, we had to discontinue offering cases a number of years ago, due to quality issues and the fact they became very difficult to acquire during COVID shut-downs.  However, I have heard of customers creating their own by cutting their own foam and using everything from pelican cases to instrument cases.  I hope this helps.

  • I plan on buying a boomstick maybe this week but I also intend on getting the shoulderok as well soon. My question is do many women use this? And can it help my wife with post surgery rehab of a rotator cuff surgery? I heard in a video that you have some physical therapists using this now. If so can you give me a name of a therapist so I can have my wifes therapist call if they are resistant for some reason to using this?

    First of all I just want to preface this by saying I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. That being said, often times when people are having various sholderok issues it's often one of a few things. Either trauma, too much stress/not enough recovery, and or poor movement. Poor movement is something that often leads to added unnecessary stress which in turn becomes harder for the body to repair and will cause a subsequent breakdown over time. This is where the shoulderok can be a useful tool. Using it is not going to repair your torn/damaged tissues, there is already structural damage done. If you're moving in a way that is causing your shoulders to break down extra over time that needs to be stopped/corrected. This is where the usefulness of the shoulderok comes in. It is a tool that will teach you to use your shoulder in conjunction with your core. This is very important because a lot of people are moving their joints off an an unstable base, which the core is suppose to be. Without this proper integration of the core the body, and subsequently the joints, lack stability. When there is a lack of stability, movement breaks down and added stress is placed on the structures. So as I said the shoulderok isn't going to cause your tissues to be repaired, but it can assist in removing the root cause that got you to that point in the first place and hopefully put the body in a scenario that allows it to heal itself more effectively. With all of that said, as I mentioned this is not medical advice nor a promise for the shoulderok to cure your issues. You would want to make sure that doing things like swinging the shoulderok are not going to cause more harm. If you lack the range of motion to get the shoulderok behind your head without compromising position, it is going to hurt not help. If doing things like swinging the shoulderok cause pain, it is likely going to be making it worse not better.

    https://kabukistrength.com/a-clinicians-story-with-the-duffin-movement-systems-the-shoulderok-2/

  • Do you not sell the break down version with the case anymore?

    That is correct.  The Tactical ShouldeRok that came with a case and a 2.5lb weight had to be discontinued in 2020 when COVID issues made it very difficult to obtain the cases and change plates.  The product was rebranded as the portable Shoulderok and the price reduced to sell it as a standalone product.

  • Hello, I'm having to put this in baggage for a gift - what is the size/weight of the packaging for the portable breakdown version?

    The ShouldeRok package is 48 x 4 x 4 inches and weighs about 10lbs.

  • How much does the "head" of the shoulderok weigh?

    For the Portable ShouldeRok, the head weighs 5.5lbs without the nut and 6.2lbs with the nut attached.

  • Is bright nickel available for the shoulderok?

    Unfortunately, we have received some bad news about nickel from our plating vendor.  Most nickel used for plating comes from Russia and due to the current sanctions/situation is not available.  Other suppliers that have material, sourced from other areas in the world, are feeling the pinch with supply and demand and prices have shot up over 3x what they were last year.  Therefore, we have had to discontinue offering nickel products, until things change.  We apologize for any inconvenience.

  • I should have read your Q &A info. My questions were answered. However, I am concerned in regard to the question about the corrosion on the nickel plated Shoulderok. Is this a problem ? Thank you. Joe

    Hey Joe,

    I skimmed through the questions but didn't see anything about the nickel plating having issues, but it's possible that I may have missed it. That is our highest quality and most durable finish that we use and should provide plenty of corrosion resistance for years and years to come, and we warranty that, so if there are issues we will replace it free of charge.

  • What is the max weight capacity for the shoulderok

    More than a person should be swinging on the ShouldeRok.   This piece of equipment is made for increasing the stability and mobility of the shoulder girdle.  If you are looking to load as much as possible, you are not using it for the correct and intended purpose,  The internet may show athletes swinging 45lb and more, but that is absolutely not recommended or the standard.  We recommend starting with a 2.5 or 5lb plate and increasing the weight by 2.5lb increments.