Mid-sized Sean

Mid-sized Sean

Member Since 2/22/2026

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1236 points

Christian, husband and dad, and lifter - in that order. Now in the latter half of my 50s, I'm trying to stave off sarcopenia for as long as I can. In all my lifting, as with everything else, I try to do it for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31).

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Mid-sized Sean's Equipment Lists (1)

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Mid-sized Sean's Gym Lists (2)

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Mid-sized Sean's Reviews (109)

(5)
9/6/2026
I got this v-handle to replace the default handle on my Matrix rower, which I hated. I also have a history of elbow tendonitis, which tended to flare up during long rowing sessions. I wanted a way to row with a neutral grip, and I'm thankful that this handle fits the bill. It is made of aluminum and hence is very light (a mere 1.3 pounds). It is actually lighter than Matrix's default plastic handle. The knurling is on the passive side, but I find it to be just right for long rowing sessions. I'd recommend this handle to anyone else looking for a neutral grip options for their rowers.
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Build Quality

(3.33)
8/22/2026
Thus far I see two reviews for this belt: one glowing and the other panning it. My opinion of it falls somewhere in the middle. Let me explain. If one considers comfort to be an important part of the "build quality" of a belt squat belt, then this has to be downgraded on that score. For when the weights get heavy, it definitely digs into your hips, causing great discomfort. Of course, I might simply be a p**sy who lacks "the mindset" here. But why choose an equipment that causes pain unnecessarily when there are better options out there (the Spud Inc pillow belt, for example)? When build quality is considered as rugged construction, on the other hand, this belt is up to the task. It looks very stoutly built and reinforced in all the places that matter. I found a DIY workaround the discomfort problem (e.g. I wrapped face cloths with duct tape on either side of the belt that hang over my crotch area (where the real discomfort happens!), as well as utilizing my old Rehband knee sleeves in novel ways). If you are averse to such DIY hacks, and you want to do belt squats, I'd advise buying a more comfortable belt.
Performance
Value
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(4.33)
8/22/2026
This is a budget friendly rack that can, with some tinkering (see pic), store the usual hex dumbbell set going from 10 lb to 50 lbs in 5 lb increments. For that weight range, its build quality is perfectly adequate to the task. I found mine on FBMP for $30, which was a steal. If you need to store heavier dumbbells, I'd look elsewhere, as this rack will quickly run out of real estate.
Performance
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(4.33)
8/20/2026
Couple of years ago, while trying to knead out a knot in my back using my wife's Thera Cane, I nearly broke the thing. That's when I went in search of something similar, but of more robust build quality. After seeing this "hook" at a local Big 5 Sporting Goods, I tried it out in person. One thing was for sure: this thing will NOT break. That had me sold on it. I only use the large hook to target areas in my back that are out of reach, but it comes with a small booklet illustrating how the various other nubs and appendages could be used to relieve knots in other parts of one's body. Finally, it would be a great bludgeoning weapon if the zombie apocalypse ever happens.
Performance
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(5)
7/29/2026
This was an impulse Amazon buy, but it's one that I actually use regularly and find helpful during "pull" days. It is a simple connector that allows you to "choose your own rowing adventure" via various handles and cable attachments - which I own a variety of, like your run-of-the-mill gym nerd. It works best in conjunction with swivel shackles, which I already owned. It's not a necessity, but a "good to have."
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