ICAROS: REVOLUTIONARY TRAINING FOR THE DEEP STABILIZATION SYSTEM

Core, body core or deep stabilization system (TSS) - all these terms are synonyms for a fascinating group of around thirty muscles in the human torso. This complex system ensures the stability of the spine and pelvis, better function of the diaphragm and the entire musculoskeletal system. The system works continuously and unconsciously.

When the TSS works properly, the load is optimally distributed during movement so that muscles and joints are not overloaded. The body moves in a coordinated and fluid manner, breathing is deep and calm, and there is no cause for pain or injury. However, if the deep stabilization system is weakened, pain occurs in the lumbar region, breathing becomes shallower and performance decreases. In addition, stability and balance deteriorate, which increases the risk of falls and other secondary injuries.

The care of the core of the body (TSS) therefore deserves special attention. In addition, a strong core is a sign of self-care.

In the following article, written in collaboration with ADELI Medical Center physiotherapist Richard Riedl, you will learn more about the deep stabilization system and how strengthening it can help to eliminate acute symptoms and prevent chronic conditions, including spinal damage. Many processes in our body depend on the health of the deep stabilization system - the health benefits of a strong core are countless.

The deep stabilization system is the pillar of our balance - physically and mentally

The deep stabilization system includes the diaphragm, the pelvic floor muscles, the deep abdominal muscles and the deep back muscles. The lower posterior saw muscle, the costovertebral fibres (rib-vertebral fibres of the square lumbar muscle) and the iliovetebral fibres (pelvic-vertebral fibres of the square lumbar muscle) also play a key role in stabilizing the spine, breathing correctly and moving the trunk.

A special focus is placed on the term "diaphragm". Richard Riedl explains from his own experience as a fitness trainer: "Hardly anyone fully utilizes the diaphragm, often it is not used at all. To put it simply: 'We can't breathe properly. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in breathing - it acts like a piston. In addition to an unstable spine and insufficient oxygen supply to the body, inactivity of the diaphragm can cause many pathological conditions. The basis of every movement should therefore be learning a correct breathing pattern, the so-called breathing wave. "I personally advocate teaching the correct breathing technique as early as possible - as soon as a child is able to grasp this information cognitively. If an incorrect breathing pattern is used over a long period of time, it is difficult to learn the correct one. Of course, an incorrect breathing pattern can also be acquired later as a result of various illnesses or chronic stress. CORRECT BREATHING IS THE BASIS!" - explains Richard Riedl.

The breathing muscles - especially the diaphragm - play a key role in core activation. This is why conscious breathing training is one of the essential elements of any sensible stabilization technique. The excursus on correct breathing also shows how closely different processes in our body are interconnected and how a disruption to one system can cause problems in a completely different area.

Only when the foundation of breathing has been laid can targeted training of the TSS develop its full effect. Strengthening the deep stabilization system through targeted therapeutic approaches:

Prevention of back pain: the deep muscles are activated, relieving the spine and reducing overloading of the lumbar region.

Improving posture: A strong core supports correct posture and prevents a hunched back.

Increased stability and balance through training the core muscles significantly reduces the risk of falling, especially in older people and people who have suffered injuries.

Supporting functional movements during everyday activities such as walking, running or lifting becomes more efficient and puts less strain on the musculoskeletal system.

Better athletic performance with a strengthened core is reflected in increased explosiveness, endurance and coordination.

Improvement of breathing and internal stability through the activation of the deep stabilization system is noticeable as better breathing and an optimal function of the intra-abdominal pressure.

How can the deep stabilization system be strengthened?

For two decades, two popular exercises for the deep stabilization system have been widely used: the classic plank and the lateral plank. But both exercises have a catch: "No one can stay in the plank position for more than 2-3 minutes, especially when I, as a long-time trainer and physiotherapist, make sure that the posture is correct. And even more so, I can't imagine that people with various muscular or neurological disorders can hold this position for long!" - explains Richard Riedl.

This is where a significant innovation comes into play: the ICAROS Health device. It mobilizes the deep stabilization system on a completely new basis, and training becomes significantly more effective!

What is ICAROS Health?

ICAROS Health is an ergonomically designed device with a lightweight but stable metal construction. It allows the user to lie in a horizontal position on their stomach with their head facing forward. Adjustable armrests and footrests provide comfortable and stable support during training. The central rotation axis allows the body to be tilted to the left, right, front and back. The device is controlled by the user's own initiated movements, whereby the movement is smooth and controlled by mechanical or pneumatic dampers.

The body movements control the "flight", which is displayed on the screen and in the 3D glasses. The adjustable resistance allows the training intensity to be adjusted as required. Integrated sensors and electronics ensure interaction with the virtual environment. The virtual reality is displayed in the 3D glasses. The stereoscopic display enables the perception of depth and a 360-degree space, which is associated with the experience of complete immersion in the created virtual world. Accelerometers and gyroscopes record the user's movements and the data obtained is transferred to the virtual reality system. ICAROS is also compatible with smart devices, which makes it possible to track performance and analyze training results.

What are the benefits of ICAROS Health?
The main functions of ICAROS Health include balance training, which improves stability and movement coordination, as well as strengthening the deep muscles, including the trunk, back, shoulders and legs. Training on the ICAROS achieves particularly good results in neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation. ICAROS also has a strong motivational effect: virtual reality allows the user to move in simulated environments such as flying, diving or sports games.

ICAROS Health is used in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, sports clubs and wellness facilities. Thanks to the combination of physical exercise and virtual reality, it offers an entertaining, motivating and effective workout.
"ICAROS Health has adjustable segments that support the correct posture as required. When the workout is also combined with a deep virtual reality experience, a 30-minute exercise in the 'plank' position is actually very doable," - says physiotherapist Richard Riedl about the huge difference between traditional training methods and ICAROS Health.
"Here we come to the argument why training on the ICAROS is so effective: when movement is combined with free flying or diving at the same time, we address profound sensory impressions that activate our brain centers more intensely. The positive training experience is a source of better motivation for the patient and the determination to continue with the therapy," - says Richard Riedl, referring to the motivating collection of points and the competition with oneself (or the online competition with other exercisers).

Use of ICAROS at the ADELI Medical Center

The ADELI Medical Center specializes in rehabilitating neurological patients. ICAROS Health helps to activate the central nervous system and strengthen the deep stabilization system at the same time.

Richard Riedl emphasizes: "The more often a movement is performed, the more stable the positive changes become. And that's exactly what ICAROS is all about."

Conclusion

ICAROS Health is the ideal combination of fun and effective training that not only strengthens the core muscles, but also supports rehabilitation and the general health of the musculoskeletal system. Its use in therapy brings patients not only physical benefits, but also psychological well-being and motivation for an active lifestyle.
The indications for ICAROS Health are diverse, ranging from neurological diseases and functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system to competitive sports.
In addition to the main task of ICAROS Health - strengthening the deep stabilization system - the device is intended for orthopaedic patients suffering from pain in the lumbar spine, for patients convalescing after a stroke and, in some cases, for patients with cerebral palsy. Thanks to its fluid adaptability, ICAROS Health is easy to adjust and adapt to the individual needs of each patient.