Lode for Life - Understanding Movement & Performance Together we can transform your specific ideas and wishes into custom-made products.
Ever since Freerk Lode manufactured the first electro-magnetic cycle ergometer in 1952, accuracy, reliability and durability have been fundamental for further developments. Having started years ago in the small market of cardiology and pulmonary function, Lode BV has become a specialist in the complete spectrum of medical ergometry. Lode is world renowned as a manufacturer of high quality ergomete
rs and the Lode brand stands for accuracy, durability and ergonomic design. The Lode product range varies from bicycle ergometers and treadmills to recumbent, arm and supine ergometers and ergometry software. Long-term experience in manufacturing medical equipment and continuous development to meet the changing requirements of the market, make Lode a flexible and reliable partner. Before leaving the factory all Lode ergometers are dynamically calibrated and, of course, all units are produced under the strictest quality control conditions. Lode is ISO 9001:2008, ISO 13485:2003 and FDA certified and fulfils the EU Medical Device Directive MDD 93/42/EEC. Over years of use, service costs are almost negligible. In other words:
Lode is the standard in Ergometry
24/04/2026
Our colleagues Aafko, Jiska, and Bibi are attending European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Preventive Cardiology 2026 in Ljubljana, Slovenia (April 23–25, 2026).
This leading congress brings together the latest scientific insights, innovations, and strategies in preventive cardiology, a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and shape the future of cardiovascular care.
Will you be attending ESC Preventive Cardiology 2026? We would be pleased to meet you.
20/04/2026
Advancing diagnostics in sports-related vascular conditions.
At Máxima Medisch Centrum (MMC), the Lode Excalibur Sport plays a key role in pioneering research into flow limitations in the iliac arteries (FLIA), a condition that can cause pain and loss of power during maximal exercise.
By using pedal force measurement, clinicians are able to diagnose one-sided FLIA with high precision. Building on this, MMC has initiated new research focusing on individual power patterns to potentially identify FLIA in patients experiencing bilateral symptoms. The ultimate goal: improving the detection of sport-related vascular problems in athletes.
As one of the most advanced cycle ergometers in both elite sports and clinical research, the Excalibur Sport PFM supports these developments with:
✔ A workload range of 10 to 3000 W
✔ Optimal support for Wingate sprint testing and CPET
✔ Certified precision, stability, and long-term reliability
✔ Integrated Pedal Force Measurement (PFM) for real-time, high-resolution left-right force analysis and advanced biomechanical insights
“We detect sport-related vascular problems in athletes using pedal power measurements of the Lode Excalibur Sport PFM.” - Martijn van Hooff
We are proud that our ergometry solutions support MMC in their efforts to advance clinical insight and improve outcomes for athletes and patients alike.
16/04/2026
Ljubljana to Cape Town and Salt Lake City, Lode is on the move.
Lode is proud to be actively present at a wide range of international congresses and exhibitions throughout the year. These events provide an excellent opportunity to showcase our ergometry solutions, exchange knowledge, and connect with professionals across the fields of sports medicine, cardiopulmonary diagnostics, and medical technology.
In the coming months, we will visit multiple exhibitions:
📍 ESC Preventive Cardiology – April 23–25, Ljubljana, Slovenia
📍 ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) – May 26–30, Salt Lake City, USA
In addition, we are pleased to announce that Lode will be exhibiting at:
📍 ISMRM & ISMRT Annual Meeting & Exhibition – May 9–14, Cape Town, South Africa
During ISMRM & ISMRT 2026, we will showcase our MR Ergometer. The MR Ergometer is specifically designed for use in the MRI environment, enabling safe, controlled, and reproducible exercise testing within the scanner. This innovative solution enables physiological exercise during cardiac MRI, supporting clinically relevant cardiovascular diagnostics.
We look forward to connecting with you throughout the year.
08/04/2026
Kinesiophobia, or fear of movement, affects a large proportion of cardiac patients, yet remains underexplored in clinical practice.
A recent study found that 74.5% of patients with coronary artery disease in the studied group experienced high levels of kinesiophobia prior to cardiac rehabilitation. These patients demonstrated lower aerobic capacity, reduced physical activity, and poorer health-related quality of life. Following a personalized cardiac rehabilitation program, the percentage decreased significantly to 34.6%.
This underlines an important insight: cardiac rehabilitation is not only about physical recovery, but also about overcoming psychological barriers to movement.
Lode Cardiac Rehab Manager (LCRM) supports personalized cardiac rehabilitation by enabling clinicians to use relevant insights, such as maximum heart rate and load, to help guide and individualize training intensity. Rather than fully relying on generic protocols, LCRM facilitates a structured and clinically informed approach, allowing healthcare professionals to design, monitor, and adjust rehabilitation programs based on each patient’s needs and progression. Its integrated ecosystem supports efficient workflows while maintaining a strong focus on patient-centered care.
Where innovation in MRI meets real-world clinical impact.
From May 9–14, 2026, Lode will be present at the ISMRM & ISMRT Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Cape Town, South Africa. The ISMRM congress is one of the world’s leading scientific events in magnetic resonance imaging and medicine.
This international congress brings together thousands of experts, including physicians, radiologists, researchers, physicists and technologists, to explore the latest developments, innovations and clinical applications in MR technology.
Our colleagues Aafko and Jiska will be pleased to welcome you at our booth, where the Lode MR Ergometer will be showcased. This innovative solution enables physiological exercise during cardiac MRI, supporting clinically relevant cardiovascular diagnostics.
✔ Real exercise during cardiac MRI
✔ Seamless integration with major MRI systems
Will you be attending ISMRM 2026? We look forward to meeting you at our booth to discuss our Lode MR Ergometer!
23/03/2026
📑 Exercise cardiac MRI: new reference standards by age and s*x
A 2025 research article demonstrates how exercise-based cardiac MRI can enhance diagnostic sensitivity compared to pharmacological stress, without the need for drugs when exercise is feasible. This research was conducted with the Lode MR Ergometer.
𝑪𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚
The study confirms that this approach can be implemented using commercially available equipment and standard vendor sequences, integrated into contrast-enhanced MRI protocols for comprehensive cardiac assessment.
𝑵𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒂
Age- and s*x-specific reference ranges improve interpretation of exercise Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR), enabling clearer differentiation between physiological and pathological responses.
𝑪𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕
Exercise CMR represents a clinically relevant and non-pharmacologic addition to cardiovascular diagnostics, supported by precise and artefact-free exercise within the MRI environment.
📖 Read the full article via the link in the comments.
16/03/2026
Cardiac MRI while exercising – seeing the heart work under stress
At the National Heart Centre Singapore, clinicians developed an exercise stress CMR protocol using the Lode MR Ergometer pedal to improve diagnostic confidence in complex cardiac cases. The protocol helps differentiate exercise-induced cardiac remodeling from early dilated cardiomyopathy and supports the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease in patients presenting with chest pain.
By enabling real physiological exercise during cardiac MRI, clinicians gain deeper insight into cardiac function under stress—providing valuable information that may remain hidden during resting scans.
The Lode MR ergometer makes it possible for patients to perform controlled cycling movements during MRI, helping clinicians obtain more meaningful information for cardiovascular diagnostics. The MR ergometer integrates seamlessly with major MRI platforms and is trusted by leading cardiac imaging centres worldwide.
12/03/2026
We are proud to announce Fizyomed Tıbbi Cihazlar as the official distributor of Lode in Turkey for the rehabilitation and cardiopulmonary exercise testing segments!
With 25 years of experience and a team of dedicated specialists, Fizyomed Tıbbi Cihazlar is a leading company in the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation equipment in Turkey. Their strong expertise and established presence in the sector make them a valuable partner for representing Lode’s ergometry solutions in the region.
Fizyomed Tıbbi Cihazlar will represent Lode within the rehabilitation and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) segments, supporting healthcare professionals and institutions with accurate and reliable ergometry solutions.
We look forward to a successful collaboration and to strengthen our presence in Turkeytogether with Fizyomed Tıbbi Cihazlar.
10/03/2026
What does it really take to perform at the highest level in Para Alpine sit-skiing?
A scientific study used the Lode Brachumera arm ergometer to investigate the physiological demands of sit-ski athletes during slalom and giant slalom. By conducting incremental testing on the Brachumera and comparing these results with measurements taken during indoor and on-snow skiing runs, researchers gained new insight into the metabolic profile of this discipline.
The findings indicate that heart rate, oxygen uptake, and blood lactate levels during sit-skiing are lower than typically observed in able-bodied alpine skiers. The authors suggest that the sit‑ski’s design absorbs much of the external force, likely reducing muscular effort and keeping metabolic demands low. They also propose that shorter courses and the use of fewer muscle groups further help explain the relatively modest physiological load.
The results also highlight that technical skill and sport-specific strength play a more decisive role in performance than aerobic capacity alone. While general endurance remains important for overall fitness and environmental resilience, refining technique and control appear to be the key performance drivers.
Studies like this demonstrate how precise physiological testing, using products such as the Lode Brachumera, supports researchers and practitioners in better understanding adaptive sports and optimizing training strategies.
05/03/2026
As the winter sports season reaches its peak, athletes in adaptive sports are finalizing the preparations that make the difference at the highest level of competition.
Elite performance in adaptive sports begins with highly targeted and precise preparation. In adaptive winter sports, marginal gains can make a difference. Accurate, sport-specific testing and training are essential to optimize performance while safeguarding athletes’ health. Within sports medicine and performance laboratories worldwide, advanced ergometry plays a key role in supporting this preparation.
The Lode Brachumera Sport arm ergometer is designed for high-level performance assessment. With an extensive workload range from 10 to 3000 watts, it enables everything from controlled low-load protocols to extreme peak efforts. The system supports Wingate sprint tests, isokinetic protocols, high-intensity tests, time trials, and CPET. Integrated strain gauge technology measures pedal forces with angular detection and independent left-right crank analysis, providing detailed insight into power output and symmetry.
For wheelchair-based athletes, the Lode Esseda wheelchair ergometer allows testing and training in the athlete’s own wheelchair. Adjustable resistance enables the simulation of different surfaces, while flexible fixation ensures an optimal fit. Customized protocols can be created to reflect sport-specific demands as closely as possible.
By combining accuracy, reliability, and sport-specific adaptability, ergometry supports athletes and professionals in preparing peak performance on the world stage.
04/03/2026
🔎 Vacancy | Business & Process Coordinator
Are you ready to apply your business expertise within an international organization where innovation, quality, and growth come together?
At Lode, we are looking for an analytical and ambitious professional who improves processes, coordinates improvement initiatives, and supports decision-making with data-driven insights. You will work closely with R&D, Operations, Quality, and Management, contributing to further professionalization and sustainable growth.
You will join an innovative and committed organization characterized by an informal working atmosphere, short communication lines, and room for initiative. In addition to your professional responsibilities, there is strong attention to (sportive) activities and our Health program within our organization.
Please note: although this vacancy is published in English, the position and internal working language at Lode are Dutch.
Interested? Please send your CV or LinkedIn profile to kbrouwer@lode.nl.
For questions, contact us at +31 50 571 28 11.
03/03/2026
We are proud to announce MEDEV Medical Devices Corporation as Lode’s official distributor in the Philippines.
Since 1999, MEDEV Medical Devices Corporation has been a trusted provider of medical equipment in the Philippines. With thousands of installed systems supporting millions of patient care procedures, MEDEV has established a strong presence within the Philippine healthcare sector.
MEDEV Medical Devices Corporation will represent Lode across all four key segments in which we are active: sports medicine, rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), and imaging. This partnership enables us to further support healthcare professionals, researchers, and institutions throughout the Philippines with accurate and reliable ergometry solutions.
We look forward to a successful collaboration in the Philippines!
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Ever since Freerk Lode manufactured the first electro-magnetic cycle ergometer in 1952, accuracy, reliability and durability have been fundamental for further developments. Having started years ago in the small market of cardiology and pulmonary function, Lode BV has become a specialist in the complete spectrum of medical ergometry. Lode is world renowned as a manufacturer of high quality ergometers and the Lode brand stands for accuracy, durability and ergonomic design. The Lode product range varies from bicycle ergometers and treadmills to recumbent, arm and supine ergometers and ergometry software.
Long-term experience in manufacturing medical equipment and continuous development to meet the changing requirements of the market, make Lode a flexible and reliable partner. Together we can transform your specific ideas and wishes into custom-made products.
From our first creative ideas to production, we make it our priority to provide professionals with easy-to-use applications for measuring and analyzing human movement. All of our products are manufactured in our own establishment based in Groningen, The Netherlands.
Before leaving the factory all Lode ergometers are dynamically calibrated and, of course, all units are produced under the strictest quality control conditions. Lode is ISO 9001:2008, ISO 13485:2003 and FDA certified and fulfils the EU Medical Device Directive MDD 93/42/EEC. Over years of use, service costs are almost negligible.
The following timeline comprises the history of Lode as a subsidiary of its parent company Lode Holding. Each year takes you back into the meaningful moments of this organization. These all transition into how Lode has become the well-established corporation that it is today.
1946 - 1982
The founder, Freerk Lode, started Lode as a sole proprietorship in the city center of Groningen. A few years later, Lode's Instruments was established. Shortly thereafter, Lode began to develop and produce ergometers. The company was also an apparatus manufacturer with a variety of products for medical applications.
1983
Lode Holding (along with the subsidiary Lode) was founded by local shareholders and became the reestablishment of Lode's Instruments. The company moved from the city center to a business park in Groningen.
1984 - 1991
In 1984, Lode was taken over by the American multinational AH Robins Co. Being that Lode was now part of an American group, international export began. Lode also distributed products from its American sister companies in Europe. American Home Product Co., a large listed international company, bought AH Robins Co and therefore Lode as well. Lode moved to its actual location at the Zernike Science Park and settled on Zernikepark 16.
1992 - 2002
In 1992, management took over Lode and with that, Lode became an independent Dutch company again. In 1994, the quality system (for medical devices etc.) of Lode Holding became certified for the first time. Dynavit, a German manufacturer of ergometers, was taken over by Lode in 1997. Production of the Dynavit ergometer then continued in Groningen at Zernikepark 16.
2003
Lode Holding launched its own distribution company of professional medical and occupational measuring instruments for the Netherlands, namely ProCare B.V.. Both the direct sales activities of Lode in the Netherlands and the trading activities of the Koenders Group in Almere were accommodated in ProCare. ProCare organizes seminars and (certified) courses for the different target groups. Later on, ProCare also begins to offer complete technical services.
2005
In 2005, Lode Holding established Umaco. Umaco is a specialized product development company with a focus on specific developments for customers in the Life Science sector.
2007 - 2008
In 2007, the building of Lode Holding got expanded by 700 square meters. In 2008 Lode Holding took over Bonte Technology, a producer of treadmills. Production was then continued in Groningen. The building at Zernikepark 16, Groningen, was reopened after the expansion and the renovation of the old part of the building. This reopening was celebrated along with the 60th anniversary of Lode , the 25th anniversary of Lode Holding and the 5th anniversary of ProCare.
2009 - 2010
In 2009, Lode Holding took over aXtion. aXtion engages in innovative ICT solutions for the care and welfare sector. In 2010 aXtion moved to the building of Lode Holding in Groningen.
In 2009, Lode Holding won the Groningen Enterprise Award! The jury praised Lode Holding mainly because of its innovative and international performance.
2011 - 2013
This period was marked by several successful market introductions and a significantly growing number of collaborations with various research institutions. Additionally, a huge increase in the number of major conferences, exhibitions and internet platforms were attended within this period.
2014 - 2019
In the beginning of 2014, Lode Holding took over Biometrics Motion. Biometrics Motion was a successful company within the field of knowledge-intensive measuring equipment for biomechanical measurements, such as those that are used in motion labs. As a result, the company has acquired a complete range of motion scientific equipment. During 2014, all activities of Biometrics Motion were integrated into the daughter companies Lode and ProCare.
