The Zona Plus is the first of its kind. And, while the physiology is pretty complicated, here is the explanation. The Zona Plus is a handheld, software-controlled device that uses isometric exercise to guide the user through a single session in just under 12 minutes. The device uses biofeedback, uniquely calibrated to each user, to optimize your performance for maximum results. Especially for those who do not – or cannot – participate in more common forms of exercise, the Zona Plus assists in managing cardiovascular wellness right from the comfort of your own home. The Zona Plus is not a substitute for a cardiovascular fitness regimen, but is perfect complement to any plan. As indicated by the FDA, the Zona Plus is “intended for adjunctive use in the overall management of cardiovascular fitness.”

“Isometric” is the Latin word literally meaning “equal measurement.” As this relates to exercise, isometric exercise is the type of muscle contraction in which the muscle is tensed and working, but not actively shortening or lengthening (with no joint movement). Comparatively, concentric contractions are the type of contractions in which a muscle, or muscle group, is shortening (such as the abdominal muscles during a sit up) and eccentric contractions are the type of contractions in which a muscle, or muscle group, is lengthening (such as in the relaxation of the sit up motion). While all forms of exercise provide benefits, isometric exercise is unique in the benefits it provides. Isometric exercise is also ideal for people who suffer from chronic joint pain.

Each Zona Plus session takes just under 12 minutes. And the device will lead you through each step during each session. At the start of each session, the device uniquely calibrates to the user’s maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) (meaning that you squeeze as hard as you can on each hand). After that measurement is taken, the device calculates an algorithm for each of four short, two-minute segments. During each segment, the user is guided to hold the device at an isometric, static contraction for the entire two minutes. On the display, the device will provide both visual and auditory cues to help the user maintain a consistent squeeze. At the end of the four segments, the Zona Plus displays the session’s results (as a percentage of the total session which was held in the optimal range), giving real-time feedback.

Yes! The device calibrates at each use, so it can be used by more than one person. The Zona Plus does, however, track progress for two unique users. Additionally, each Zona Plus comes with two lifetime logins to our tracking software found at www.bpcharting.com. Using these logins, users can track several data points about their usage, including their maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), score at completion, dates, times, and other health-related information.

Sometimes, people misunderstand the usage of the Zona Plus and just start to squeeze. In fact, the only time the device measures a maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) is during the initial calibration stage. Beyond the calibration stage, the device calculates an algorithm for use during the subsequent segments. Each segment uses a percentage of the MVC for each two minutes. And, rest assured that, even If your current grip strength is relatively weak, the Zona Plus is still effective. That is the beauty of isometric exercise. In fact, most people find that their grip eventually improves over time.