OVERVIEW
AXIS Performance Systems is a human performance technology and product-development company built around a foundational principle: performance begins with organization. The name AXIS reflects our focus on the spine as a central reference from which the body organizes movement, stability, and force. Our work integrates kinesiology, biomechanics, strength and conditioning, and elite-level athletic experience to develop systems for movement assessment and performance training. Through the AXIS Spinal Platform System and AXIS Bench System, we explore how more controlled physical conditions can support movement assessment, functional range of motion (ROM), and strength development.
AXIS SYSTEMS
AXIS research and development focuses on the relationship between human movement, physical organization of the spine, and the environments in which assessment and training occur. Drawing from our integrated work, we develop systems intended to create more controlled and accountable conditions for assessing movement and developing performance.
Spinal Platform System
INDIVIDUALIZED REFERENCE
BREATHING + CONTACT
MOVEMENT WITH ORGANIZATION
A DIFFERENT WAY TO DEFINE MOVEMENT
The AXIS Spinal Platform System begins by creating an individualized physical reference derived from the user's neutral posterior profile. In supine position, the platform provides a consistent surface reference from which diaphragmatic breathing mechanics, body contact, and extremity movement—both active and passive—can be explored together. Why? When the goal is to assess joint-specific ROM, establishing a consistent trunk and pelvic reference helps distinguish motion at the shoulder or hip from the normal contributions of the scapula, pelvis, and spine [1-4].
The objective is not simply to achieve greater range of motion. It is to explore how much movement can occur while maintaining the breathing and trunk organization established at the beginning. This creates a framework for progressively expanding available shoulder and hip ROM before introducing low-level stabilization exercises within the newly accessible range.
Bench System
The AXIS Bench System rethinks the conventional flat training surface by supporting the body in a more organized spinal position during bench-based weight bearing exercise. Rather than relying on a flat surface that alters the natural contours of the spine, the two-piece modular system provides targeted support across the cervical, upper and lower thoracic, and lumbar regions. Its dual-density cervicothoracic unit pairs a firm inner core with a softer outer shell, creating a more integrated foundation for strength training. The design is intended to preserve trunk organization while allowing for less constrained shoulder positioning and movement under load.
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
BREATHING-GUIDED MOVEMENT
Investigating how breathing quality and trunk organization influence supine shoulder and hip movement.
POSTURAL ENVIRONMENT
Examining movement under different support conditions to better understand the relationship between spinal organization and extremity motion.
PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY
Translating principles from kinesiology, biomechanics, and strength and conditioning into testable human performance systems.
Stephen Veltman
Founder, AXIS Performance Systems
BMX Racing Hall of Fame Inductee · B.S. in Kinesiology
VISION
AXIS Performance Systems was founded on a simple principle: the environment in which the body trains influences how the body adapts. Our vision is to rethink the physical foundations used for assessment, movement development, and strength training by creating systems that better support human organization. From breathing-guided movement and individualized spinal support to strength training, AXIS is developing technologies that explore a common question: How can we better organize the body before asking it to perform?
Organize the foundation. Stabilize the system. Perform better.