Napa, California – November 2006 – ‘Tis the season to be jolly…and to overindulge. But there is a way to combat those extra pounds: with the increasingly popular fitness regime of strength training. In 2006, more people were working to strengthen and tone their bodies through targeted strength training exercises than ever. According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Associations’ recent state-of-the-industry report, of the 10 sports that were most likely to attract new participants in 2006, strength training was number four (following fitness walking, lacrosse and soccer) and expected to grow by 22 percent. This trend is expected to continue in 2007.

Says Matt Sulam, fitness trainer at Sulam Personal Training, “More and more people are seeing that fad diets don’t work and that if you want to get and stay in shape, building muscles through simple strength training exercise is the way to go.”
Since increased muscle mass increases your baseline metabolism, the holiday season is the perfect time to jump on the strength training bandwagon. Harbinger, the leading manufacturer of fitness accessories, has everything fitness buffs needs to either start their strength training regime or bring it to the next level:

Ankle Cuff
For sublimely toned legs!
• For use with weight stack cable equipment to strengthen and tone leg muscles
• 4.5-mm Neoprene padding protects ankle during training
• Adjustable Velcro® closure customizes fit
• Steel D ring holds up to 750 lbs stackable weight
• Suggested retail price: $10

Tricep Rope
The wonder-rope for training triceps, biceps, back, shoulders and abs
• Made out of heavy-duty coated nylon 1.25” in diameter.
• 36” long for full tricep and arm extension
• Molded and ribbed rubber ends are ergonomically designed to provide maximum traction and pulling leverage during use
• Rope is supported by a forged steel grommet that hooks into any universal gym system
• Suggested retail price: $30Pro Cotton Lifting Straps
Increase your lifting ability without sacrificing your wrists
• 5-mm Neoprene padded wrist wrap secures the lifting strap in the proper position
• Padded wrist wrap provides maximum cushioning during lifting
• Suggested retail price: $20

Ab Strap
Here’s how to start carving out that six-pack you’ve always wanted!
• Made out of heavy duty cordura nylon with steel grommets for the maximum in strength and durability
• Strap has a locking, forged steel carabineer that hooks into any universal gym, and can support up to 350 lbs
• Side straps have been lined with a plush nylon fabric that protects the arms and makes the strap easier and more comfortable to use
• Suggested retail price: $70

5” Foam Core Belt
For serious lifters
• Extra wide 5" belt with a 3" support strap overlay for maximum lower back and abdominal protection during heavy lifting
• Flexible but lightweight foam core surrounded by abrasion resistant nylon supports the back while maintaining muscle warmth
• Heavy gauge steel roller buckle makes tensioning easy
• Plush Tricot lining is comfortable against the skin
• Four sizes: Small (waists 25”-30”), Medium (31”-34”), Large (35”-38”), XL (39”-42”)
• Suggested retail price (all sizes): $20

Harbinger’s fitness products are available at most major, independent and specialty sporting goods retailers nationwide.

About Harbinger
As the leading fitness accessory brands in the US and Canada, Harbinger and Grizzly Fitness USA have partnered to become the number one supplier of fitness accessories in North America. With a focus on the strength-training consumer, their combined product line combines innovation and performance. Product categories include gloves, belts, wrist wraps, lifting straps, machine attachments, a full range of hand exercise tools and other products designed to enhance even the most rigorous training regimens. For more information on Harbinger or Grizzly Fitness USA visit www.harbingerfitness.com and www.grizzlyfitnessusa.com.