Founded by Mike Reed after he hit the limits of five-pound jumps in his own strength training, Micro Gainz makes patented fractional weight plates that let lifters increase dumbbell and barbell loads in smaller steps. The Clearfield, Pennsylvania company manufactures its sintered-steel plates in the USA, calibrating them to within 10 grams and developing clamp-on and magnetic designs for existing dumbbells.
Lionheart LiftingFounded on Kickstarter by U.S. military veterans who experienced the limitations of shipboard gyms, Lionheart Lifting makes portable, fillable sand-weight plates for training wherever life takes you. Its patent-pending Lionheart Plate uses tactical fabric, fills with dry sand or dirt, and works on or off the barbell, offering a washable alternative to traditional metal or rubber weights.
Mark Bell Sling Shot®Founded by professional powerlifter Mark Bell, Mark Bell Sling Shot® makes patented training gear built around its signature bench-press accessory, which helps lifters handle heavier loads while reinforcing form and reducing shoulder strain. The company also produces related support gear for strength training, including a push-up version designed to help users build repetitions with better technique.GLENS FALLS, NY
PRIME Fitness USARooted in the USA and hand-crafted in northwestern Pennsylvania, PRIME Fitness makes strength-training equipment engineered around its SmartStrength® approach. The brand is owned and manufactured by Specialty Fitness Systems, which has been the sole manufacturer of Strive Strength equipment since 2009 and acquired Strive outright in 2013. PRIME’s equipment is made to order, including selectorized and plate-loaded machines, racks, and gym accessories.339920FRANKLIN, PA
Ultimate Body PressFrom its Pennsylvania base, Ultimate Body Press designs fitness equipment for bodyweight training in home and commercial gyms, with mounted and doorway pull-up bars at the center of its lineup. The company is especially known for practical home-gym designs such as an elevated doorway bar that needs no drilling and a ceiling bar with patented reversible risers for 16- and 24-inch joists. Ultimate Body Press describes itself as a North Carolina company, with its warehouse in Pittsburgh, and backs select products with a 10-year warranty.LEETSDALE, PA