The History and Future of ForceFrame

We recently announced the next evolution of ForceFrame Max, featuring six sensors and major configuration upgrades to streamline testing and enhance versatility. 

…the next evolution of ForceFrame Max, featuring six sensors and major configuration upgrades to streamline testing and enhance versatility.

Designed to save time, expand testing options and improve the overall user experience, this update introduces the following:

• Quick one-handed crossbar rotation
• Smoother height and paddle adjustments
• Two additional sensors

To understand how we got here, it is worth revisiting the journey of the ForceFrame so far:

• 2017 – The launch of GroinBar
• 2019 – GroinBar becomes ForceFrame
• 2020 – Fully rotational crossbar
• 2022 – Increased load testing capacity
• 2023 – Introduction of ForceFrame Max, in addition to ForceFrame Fold
• 2025 – ForceFrame Max crossbar update

The Evolution of ForceFrame 

2017 – The Launch of GroinBar

The ForceFrame journey began in 2017 with the “GroinBar,” originally designed specifically for hip and groin strength testing, but thanks to our innovative clients, the GroinBar quickly exceeded its original scope.

From ballet schools measuring toe flexion to rugby teams testing neck strength and baseball teams assessing shoulder rotation – our clients were using the GroinBar in ways we had not imagined.

The original GroinBar.

2019 – GroinBar Becomes ForceFrame

To reflect this quickly growing versatility, we rebranded GroinBar to ForceFrame.

To reflect this growing versatility, we rebranded GroinBar to ForceFrame.

This shift was accompanied by several key updates:

• A range of new test types was added, covering every major joint in the body.
• A custom shoulder brace was included with every ForceFrame, providing improved comfort and repeatability in shoulder testing.
• A new Training Mode was added to the ForceFrame apps, providing gamified isometric training protocols at specific intensities.

An example of a long-lever hip adduction isometric training exercise using ForceFrame’s Training Mode.

2020 – Fully Rotational Crossbar

In the biggest update to the ForceFrame to date, we introduced a fully rotational crossbar, significantly simplifying test setup and allowing users to quickly configure the system for different joint angles and test positions.

2022 – Increased Load Testing Capacity

As clients began performing a wider range of tests and some of our strongest users pushed the limits of the original ForceFrame sensors, we saw a need for greater load tolerance. Working closely with our suppliers, we engineered higher-capacity sensors that fit within the same hardware envelope. 

To support this, we introduced a hardware upgrade to enable load testing up to 250kg, which unlocked the ability to perform higher force testing options, such as ankle plantar flexion and knee extension.

2023 – Introduction of ForceFrame Max, in Addition to ForceFrame Fold

Following the 2022 increase in sensor capacity to support higher load testing, we set out to create a version of ForceFrame that could meet the demands of users performing high-force or high-volume testing.

Following the 2022 increase in sensor capacity…ForceFrame Max [was launched and]…the original ForceFrame was rebranded as ForceFrame Fold…

This led to the launch of ForceFrame Max – a new model featuring a taller and stiffer frame, lower profile, stronger base and more ergonomic, adaptable floor padding. These changes made the frame stronger for the most demanding users.

At the same time, with the introduction of ForceFrame Max, the original ForceFrame was rebranded as ForceFrame Fold, reflecting its role as our lightest and most space-efficient model, well-suited to gyms and clinics where space is limited and to practitioners who need a system they can regularly travel with.

2025 – ForceFrame Max Crossbar Update

Developed in response to client feedback, learnings from years of product development, the need to perform multiple tests in quick succession and the increasing popularity of Training Mode alongside a broader test library, the next generation of ForceFrame Max is designed to test more efficiently, expand testing capabilities and streamline the testing experience.

…the next generation of ForceFrame Max is designed to test more efficiently, expand testing capabilities and streamline the testing experience.

Updated ForceFrame Max with six sensors and modular crossbar.

The ForceFrame Max update introduces:

Six Sensors

Two additional sensors have been added to support movements primarily performed in the sagittal plane, such as flexion and extension, while still allowing flexibility for tests in other planes (e.g., side-lying abduction). This upgrade reduces the need to change paddle configurations and speeds up multi-joint testing.

Showcasing the new six-sensor setup across a variety of test positions.

Previously, users had to manually switch the outer paddles into the “flat” position, which could take up valuable time during a testing session. Now, ForceFrame Max users can simply rotate the bar to use the fixed flat paddles.

Quick-Adjust Crossbar Rotation

Thanks to a clever new mechanism, a single-handle lever allows fast and smooth rotation of the crossbar for flat paddle testing or repositioning to suit different test setups.

Faster, Smoother Height Adjustment

We have introduced a new dual-button mechanism on either side of the frame, allowing the crossbar height to be adjusted quickly and easily. This streamlines test setup and flow between testing sessions, especially in high-volume or group testing environments.

Intuitive Paddle Adjustment

An all-new quick-release handle allows quicker, easier transition between sensor widths for different users or tests – particularly useful in group or time-sensitive environments.

What Next?  

Driven by client feedback, we are continuing to evolve. From both a hardware and software perspective, we remain committed to improving the isometric testing and training experience for our users.

This commitment is and always has been underpinned by our all-inclusive subscription model, which provides clients with unlimited access to continuous innovation, along with the support they need, whenever they need it.

If you would like to learn more about the latest ForceFrame Max updates or how ForceFrame can help streamline and expand your clinic’s testing capabilities, please reach out to our team.