Introduction
At Equip Products, every product has a story, and the LapMat™—our flagship creation—holds a special place in our hearts. Launched in 2016 after a chance encounter with adaptive athlete Kevin Ogar at the CrossFit Games in Carson, California, the LapMat™ was born from a moment of inspiration that would reshape the world of adaptive fitness and beyond. Little did we know then that this humble invention would evolve into a global phenomenon, empowering not just elite athletes but anyone starting their fitness journey from a seated position.
A CrossFit Origin Story
The idea for the LapMat™ sparked when we met Kevin Ogar, a wheelchair athlete whose resilience and determination left an indelible mark on us. Witnessing the challenges he faced during training—especially the risk of injury from dropped weights—ignited a mission. The following year, at the 2017 CrossFit Games in Madison, Wisconsin, Kevin and several other wheelchair athletes showcased the LapMat™ in an exhibition workout on the main stadium floor. It was a proud moment, seeing our early design in action, protecting athletes as they pushed their limits on one of fitness’s biggest stages.
From 20 Designs to Worldwide Impact
Developing the LapMat™ wasn’t easy. We iterated through nearly twenty different prototypes, refining materials, straps, and shock-absorbing layers to create a product that could withstand the rigors of fitness competitions. The result? A PATENTED design (US D835,428 S) that’s now a staple for wheelchair athletes worldwide, offering leg protection during lifts and dynamic movements. But what we didn’t anticipate back in 2016 was the LapMat™’s broader potential—a tool that transcends competitive sports to support everyday fitness journeys.
Empowering Seated Fitness for All
The LapMat™ has proven to be a game-changer for anyone who needs to start their fitness journey from a seated position, opening doors for diverse communities:
- Neurological Conditions: Individuals with conditions affecting balance—such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis—often face safety risks when standing. The LapMat™ provides a secure, shock-absorbing layer, enabling safe strength training and cardio exercises from a chair, aligning with OT/PT goals of functional movement and confidence.
- Obesity: For those who are moderately or morbidly obese, beginning a fitness routine seated can reduce joint strain and injury risk. The LapMat™’s ergonomic design and weight-diffusing core make it an ideal companion for gradual progression.
- Elderly Individuals: Fear of falling is a real concern for seniors, backed by statistics showing falls as a leading cause of injury among the elderly. The LapMat™ offers peace of mind, allowing older adults to engage in seated workouts with added protection, supporting mobility and independence.
A Legacy of Inclusivity
Rooted in our CrossFit heritage, the LapMat™ reflects Equip Products’ commitment to inclusivity. What started as a solution for adaptive athletes like Kevin Ogar has grown into a versatile tool for neurological patients, individuals with obesity, the elderly, and anyone reclaiming their fitness from a seated start. Handcrafted in our Midwest facility, each LapMat™ embodies the resilience and innovation that define our brand.
Join the Journey
Whether you’re an adaptive athlete inspired by the CrossFit Games, a senior seeking safety, or someone beginning anew, the LapMat™ is here to support you. Explore its story and shop the Small LapMat™ here to discover how it can transform your fitness path. Share your journey with us using #EquipProducts on social media, and let’s move together toward a stronger, more empowered future!