INTRO

Overall, the Nordic Back Extension Machine V2 from TIB bar Guy is really nice. It has

really nice grippy - yet comfortable upholstery
a stable frame
easy to adjust to different configurations
nice wheels (easy to move)

The company claims to be a 4 -in -1 product: Namely:

Nordic Bench
Hip/Back Extension
Hip Thrust/Split Squat
And a Reverse Hyper

Does it do all 4 well?…I will give you a hint…no – it does not do ALL 4 well… SO let’s explore each one …

Core Function #1: Full Size Nordic Bench

Feels great. The machine, unlike a traditional Glute Ham Developer (GHD), offers “regression Levels” from 0 to 45 degrees (i.e., 0, 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45). These Regression levels are great for working your way up to full range-of-motion Nordic Curls. If you use a GHD do to Glue Ham Raises (GHRs) you can use your hands on the handlebars to assist you, but the “regression levels” of the Tib Bar Guy’s Nordic Back Extension V2 is preferred.

By simply pulling a pop pin, you can set the pitch of the bench to your desired angle - aided by the laser cut number on the frame.

Also - it is important to note that since the unite has both upper and lower pads for your feet - your can secure your feet much easier than options with only one pad for your feet (like the “NordBench” from Nordstick).

Bottom line: No complaints

Core Function #2: Hip Extension/Back Extension

Feels great. To adjust to this configuration - simply remove one of the pads and set the top pad to the appropriate height.

By simply pulling a pop pin, you can set the height of the pad. However, there are no number on this part of the frame. I think that they should fix this - but it is not a deal breaker.

One thing to note on this: if you want to grab a weight plate to do a weighted hip extension – you probably want to throw down a pad or mat to protect that powder coat.

Bottom line: No major complaints

Core Function #3: Hip Thrust/Split Squat

Feels great. To set to this configuration, set the pad to your preferred angle (which will probably be 0 degrees or 10 degrees)…..and install the roller pad in front. Then perform the split squat or a hip thrust. For the Split squat -- by placing your toe on the product’s pad gives you a little extra stability as compared to using a using a leg roller on a rack. For the Hip Thrust, you can use a weight plate or a dumbbells with the product situated anywhere in your home gym. However, if using a barbell - you will want to wheel the unit over to your power rack so that you can lift the barbell off of your safeties/Spotter arms/J Hooks.

Bottom line: No major complaints

Core Function #4: Reverse Hyper

Not good. SO far we are 3 for 4 on this 4 in-1 product.

While I can comfortably do a bodyweight or banded reverse hyper on GHD – because its pad has so much surface area …I cannot comfortably perform a reverse hyperextension using this product. The edge of the pad digs into my hips and it does not feel great due to there not being enough surface area.

Bottom Line: Nope.

Other Critiques

1. Pad Upholstery Liner: While the pad is dense, and the upholstery is made of a very nice grippy material that appears to be pretty durable, the liner underneath the pad is just stapled on – which is not premium. Maybe that is what you should expect at this price point – I don’t know – but I wanted to call it out, because I think they could do better here.

2. Foot Roller Pad Upholstery: It is a little loose on the foot roller pad and you can actually see the padding inside.. I would like to see something (even if it was a rubber or even plastic) to cover up that gap – to give the product a little bit higher-end look.

3. Plastic Pop Pins: Lastly, while I like the metal pop-pin used to set the regression levels , the other pop pins are cheap plastic ones that you find on cheap equipment from TEMU, I would like to see higher end knobs.

Summary

Now other than those items I called out – my overall impression is that it is a good product for the price, and it performs its job well. In fact, it performs so well, that I will likely be moving my full-size GHD to the garage, and keeping the Tib Bar Guy product in my primary workout space - my basement. By doing this, I can still perform many of the same exercises I was using the GHD for, but with much more compact and transportable unit – that I can place virtually anywhere in my basement gym. I do have some more equipment coming in soon, and like all Home Gym Owners….I need the space!

Shopping:

The Product can be purchased at the link below. If they are not running a sale at the time - be sure to at least sign up for their emails to save 10%: https://bit.ly/DBL-TBG-NORDICBENCHV2

Tib Bag Guy: Nordic Back Extension Machine V2