Manta Ray Review
So, the other day I decided to try a product I’ve heard a lot about but never had any experience with–the Manta Ray. For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, it takes the place of a pad on a squat bar, and instead evenly distributes the weight across your shoulders. At first it was awkward, but it soon proved to be much, much better than just a pad. I felt a better stimulus, however, I did feel the Manta Ray slightly roll forward on my back with each rep, which could possibly prove dangerous if not handled correctly, but for the most part I think people have nothing to fear from and should at the very least try using the Manta Ray.
September 24, 2007 at 3:32 am
Thanks for the info. I’ve seen this in my gym near the squat area. As the weight gets higher, I’ve had a hard time with the squat pads that roll around the bars….that don’t do much to keep the bar from hurting my back bone area.
The optimal location for me to put the bar on back squats is mid-way down the traps (and not on my upper traps like many people). Does the manta ray support this?
January 3, 2008 at 11:11 pm
I never rest the bar on my upper traps–I rest it in the same area as you, sounds like (the traps create a natural kind of shelf at that point), and I didn’t notice the weight being distributed over my upper traps at all. I’d say try it out for yourself–get a feel of how it works–it can’t hurt to try it!