Escape Fitness, a global leader in innovative fitness solutions, has unveiled Octagon LOAD or “LOAD”, a groundbreaking strength and functional training system. Developed from years of industry expertise and global insights, LOAD addresses critical challenges faced by fitness facilities, offering a versatile, safe and engaging, results-driven solution that meets the rising demand for strength training.

Matthew Januszek, Escape Fitness USA, CEO, explains: “Strength training is no longer the reserve of elite athletes or bodybuilders; it’s a cornerstone of fitness for people of all ages and abilities. After 3 years of research and conversations with leading operators, athletes, and coaches, built on a lifetime of experience working in the fitness industry, Escape Fitness has created a pioneering circuit-based system for the general population that efficiently stimulates muscle.”

Designed and manufactured at the Escape Technologies facility in the UK by Escape’s in-house team of specialist engineers, LOAD combines the benefits of traditional plate-loaded machines with advanced variable resistance technology. High-tensile resistance bands promote continuous muscle engagement throughout movements, particularly at the end range of motion, maximizing strength gains.

All movements are performed in a standing position which activates the entire kinetic chain. This holistic approach builds strength using natural movement sequences, promoting superior muscle growth and strength efficiently and safely.

“The hypertrophy benefits are outstanding,” adds Januszek. “Contributions from the variable resistance training include optimized muscle engagement, consistent muscle activation and faster muscle fatigue, all help to breakthrough performance plateaus by challenging muscles in new ways whilst also limiting the risk of injury. The fact that all movements are performed in a standing position means glutes, abs, quads and hamstrings are also engaged – optimizing training time and providing a full body workout.”

LOAD is engineered to cater for everyone. Its design supports multiple stance positions—neutral, split, staggered and single-leg as well as various grip adjustments, enabling users to target specific muscle groups while enhancing stability and strength.
The ability to train across the entire force-velocity curve allows users to develop both power and speed, setting LOAD apart from traditional strength equipment. Its compact design is ideal for facilities with limited floor space, while innovative features appeal to a wide range of users.

Safety is a key focus of LOAD. The variable resistance system allows controlled load adjustments, minimizing injury risks and ensuring progressive overload for continuous improvement. This makes LOAD an excellent option for injury rehabilitation and for older adults or beginners who may feel intimidated by traditional strength equipment.

For gym operators, personal trainers and fitness stakeholders, LOAD represents an investment that delivers measurable benefits. It’s not just about lifting weights—it’s about training smarter, safer and more effectively. By integrating LOAD into training facilities, operators can meet the growing demand for strength training while providing an unparalleled member experience.

The Octagon LOAD range launches with five ‘STATIONS’: LIFT, DRIVE, ROW, SQUAT and PRESS. All stations can be standalone or connected, with options to integrate equipment storage. The incorporation of resistance bands enables quick and easy resistance adjustments between sets and a reduction in the number of plates that need to be changed and stored.

Frames are manufactured from a mild steel box section BSEN10025 with handles made from 304/1.4301 stainless steel. This makes LOAD ideal for indoor studios. An optional galvanized paint finish is available, providing full weatherproofing for outdoor use. Frames can also be fully customized to reflect operator branding and color palette.

Januszek adds: “Working with one of the world’s most experienced and respected fitness educators, Tommy Matthews, we have developed a comprehensive suite of LOAD education materials available both in-person and digitally.” Januszek adds. “We are also developing content for our MARS digital training system, so users will be able to access digital content anytime to help them execute movements safely and effectively.

LOAD is installed and already being piloted at Gold’s Gym, California, USA and The Waterfront Leisure Complex, Greenock, UK, managed by Inverclyde Leisure.

Click here to read the full Inverclyde Leisure case study.

To learn more about Octagon LOAD and how it could enhance your facility and training offer, visit www.escapefitness.com or contact the team to arrange a demonstration.