Nautilus equipment

Nautilus equipment, pioneered by Dr. Arthur Jones, was among the first to popularize selectorized resistance equipment. His marketing strategy included conducting an experiment with bodybuilder Casey Viator, who demonstrated remarkable gains using Nautilus equipment under a specific regime of intense single sets to failure per body part. However, this was criticized for being more of a marketing strategy rather than a scientifically rigorous study. It was posited that gains were more due to muscle memory and potential use of anabolics rather than solely the equipment efficacy. Nautilus machines were also unique for their ability to modulate resistance at different points of a rep, allowing for targeted muscle engagement 1.

In modern discussions, the unique chain-fed design of some of the original Nautilus machines has been noted for its exceptional feel when compared to other selectorized equipment, although these designs were abandoned due to safety concerns with the exposed chains 2. The hosts of the Mind Pump Podcast have expressed a nostalgic appreciation for the durability and distinct resistance profiles provided by these older Nautilus machines, despite acknowledging that such equipment might not fully replace free weights in terms of overall fitness benefits 3.