Horizontal Bar Patents (Class 482/38)
  • Patent number: 6079368
    Abstract: A rod-shaped animal restraining device, the length of which is adjustable to fit securely under tension between two vertical walls such as the walls of a bathtub or shower stall, the rod shaped restraining device including an attachment for easy securement of an animal to the rod. Adjustment of the length of the rod-shaped device is preferably accomplished by providing a lever activated length adjustment device, such that pivoting of a lever changes the overall length of the rod-shaped device. The device is simple, lightweight, made of non-corrosive materials, and can be quickly and easily installed between two opposing vertical walls. The device thus enables pet owners to securely restrain their pets while the animals are being bathed indoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: David Paddock
  • Patent number: 6077195
    Abstract: The balance beam of this invention has an elongated beam member having opposite ends, a center portion, a top and a bottom, with legs on the bottom thereof adjacent the ends. Each leg has an upper and a lower end. A resilient support and trolley assembly is mounted within the elongated beam adjacent the ends thereof with each support assembly having a depending arm member extending downwardly therefrom with each arm member being pivotally secured to one of the upper ends of the legs. The legs extend downwardly and outwardly from the arm member in the plane of the beam member so that the lower ends thereof dwell substantially under the ends of the beam member. Elongated links are pivotally secured by their ends to one end of the beam and one end of each of the legs to hold the beam member in an erected elevated horizontal position. The resilient support and trolley assembly is longitudinally movably positioned within the beam and has two end blocks rigidly secured to a trolley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: American Sports International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark R. Lane, Neal C. Squibb, Leslie M. Arp, Sue M. Sherlock, Martha Nichols-Ketchum, Bill W. Sorenson
  • Patent number: 6017293
    Abstract: A swing support assembly for use between a pair of upright members of a door frame to support a swing or other piece of playground equipment. The support assembly includes an adjustable support bar which has first and second ends and can be adjusted to vary the distance between the first and second ends. The swing support assembly includes a pair of mounting brackets which are each mounted to an abutment strip on the upright members of the door frame. Each of the mounting brackets include a pair of attachment straps which engage both the bracket body and the abutment strip to securely hold the mounting bracket in place on the upright member of the door frame. The attachment straps contained on the bracket body are adjustable, such that the bracket body can be removably attached to the door frame. One of the mounting brackets includes an adjustable door stop member which is used to prevent the door from closing when the swing support assembly is being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventor: Scott M. Pfefferle
  • Patent number: 5989158
    Abstract: A horizontal bar exercising device for use in a room having a floor and a ceiling, the device comprising first and second support posts designed to extend vertically between the floor and ceiling and a horizontal bar having first and second ends interconnected with the first and second posts respectively by sleeve members, the sleeve being slidable along the first and second posts by means of friction reducing means interposed therebetween to minimize binding between the sleeves and posts. The device preferably includes extension arms located at the upper distal end, each of the extension arms having a pressure rod to indicate a preset pressure to be applied to the ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Bernard Fredette
  • Patent number: 5967093
    Abstract: An equestrian jumping device using telescopic standards which adjust the height of the jump. The jump height is determined by placing an elongated cup having a pin into predetermined holes positioned on the telescopic posts. The elongated cup and adjustable posts enable one to create a corner obstacle comprising of two poles and three standards. The two poles meet at one end in the elongated cup and then proceed in opposite directions to form a triangle or corner. The advantage of the adjustable standard eliminates the standard from protruding above the pole which could injure either horse or rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Topline Equine, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Alan Vitt, Robert Todd Lewis
  • Patent number: 5941802
    Abstract: An apparatus for assisting in performing pull-ups under an overhead bar (B) provides an adjustable upward force on a foot holder (2) to decrease the effort needed for pulling up the body. The force is adjusted by varying the number of bungee-cord linear springs (3) between the bar and the foot holder. The holder has a platform (22) and a shoe strap (11) to hold just one of the user's feet; the other foot is wrapped around the other leg. Looped ends of the bungee cords, formed by clamps (4), are attached with rings (14) or carabiners (6) to the platform and to straps (7) looped around the bar. A safety strap (1) holds the foot holder stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Sportime L.L.C.
    Inventor: James G. Kiser
  • Patent number: 5885189
    Abstract: A balance beam has an elongated beam member having opposite ends, a center portion, a top and a bottom, with legs on the bottom thereof adjacent the ends. Each leg has an upper and a lower end. A resilient support assembly is mounted within the elongated beam adjacent the ends thereof with each support assembly having a depending clevis extending downwardly therefrom with each clevis being pivotally secured to one of the upper ends of the legs. The legs extend downwardly and outwardly from the support assembly in the plane of the beam member so that the lower ends thereof dwell substantially under the ends of the beam member. Elongated links are pivotally secured by their ends to one end of the beam and one end of each of the legs to hold the beam member in an erected elevated horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: American Sports International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark R. Lane, Neal C. Squibb
  • Patent number: 5871420
    Abstract: An spotting assistance apparatus for use in conjunction with a horizontal bar apparatus for providing support for a gymnastics spotter. The apparatus includes a pivoting support platform which is pivotable about a horizontal axis, such that the platform can be moved from a nonoperating position to an operating position. The operating positions of the pivoting support platforms can be adjusted among different operating positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Inventor: Stanley B. Arasmith
  • Patent number: 5776037
    Abstract: An isometric exercise device (10) which comprises a flat bench (12) and an upright rack (14). A pair of butterfly arms (44) are held in either an upright position or an outwardly angular position on opposite sides of the base (30) of the upright rack. A person without strength and endurance can exercise isometrically all parts of the body with the flat bench (12), with the upright rack (14) and with a combination of the flat bench (12) and the upright rack (14) together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Donald B. Millington
  • Patent number: 5697628
    Abstract: An exercise and support bar apparatus mounted in brackets on a wheelchair and method for using same. The bar can be adjusted to be more or less proximate the occupant by removing the upstanding portions of the bar from the brackets, turning the apparatus end-for-end, and re-inserting the upstanding portions in the bracket. Angular and height adjustments are also provided by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Robert W. Spear
  • Patent number: 5697875
    Abstract: A collapsible push up exercise device having hinged flared sides which, when opened for use, form an inverted V-shape. A plurality of spaced holes are provided on the front sides of the hinged framework for the reception at selective heights of hook-like extensions of two partially closed rings which rings encircle and support a push up bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: William Stan
  • Patent number: 5679104
    Abstract: An isometric exercise apparatus includes a pair of exercise mechanisms adjustably mounted along parallel slanted tracks. Each mechanism has an arm pivotally mounted thereto. A torque ratchet or geared solenoid is used to lock the arms in angular position. A push bar connects the arms for the user to engage in isometric exercise. A counterweight mechanism provides for fluid movement of the exercise mechanisms substantially in unison along the slanted track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Larry Driscoll
    Inventor: Larry James Driscoll
  • Patent number: 5662556
    Abstract: A specially designed foldable exercise apparatus is provided for doing pull-ups or chin-ups while the heels of he feet remain on the floor. It includes a chrome-plated steel base with welded upright frame bar supports extendable upward on each side of the base, with an uninterrupted space provided between the upright frame bar supports for the torso of user's body to be placed therebetween. The vertical supports extend upward with one on each side, approximately midway between a front edge and a rear edge of the base, so that the base extends outward in both directions from the vertical support posts. The pull-up supports are fabricated with apertures or notched vertical supports or hooks on the exterior for placement therein of a horizontal support bar which is movable. The support bar is preferably fabricated of tubular steel with rubber caps on each end to prevent slipping off the support posts. An optional cross brace is provided to stabilize the support posts in place in a vertical position of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Robert B. Gangloff
  • Patent number: 5607380
    Abstract: A push-up device including a support means and a grip bar inserted in at least two side plates positioned on the support means is provided. In another embodiment, a push-up device is provided that includes at least two support means, at least two grip bars, each grip bar inserted in at least two side plates positioned on respective support means, and a resistance means attachable to the grip bars. To provide additional adjustments for the exerciser, the push-up device of the present invention can also incorporate an arched grip bar having an angled support bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: John E. Duty
    Inventor: John E. Duty
  • Patent number: 5582565
    Abstract: A triceps exercise apparatus wherein a pair of adjacent hand grips angled upward at about 30 degrees and sized to receive the user's hands in an overhand grip are formed from a generally horizontal bar whose height is approximately 191/2 inches above the level of the user's feet. The device allows a user to grip the bar with his or her arms above his or her head and his or her body facing downward and extended to one side of the bar at an approximate right angle. The apparatus includes a block for receiving the feet of the user and means for manually adjusting the distance of the block from the bar so as to adjust the apparatus to users of differing heights. The bar is adjustable in height relative to the level of the blocks in the first embodiment by a pair of manually adjustable telescoping standards which support the bar at its longitudinal ends and in the second embodiment by a central standard that is manually pivotable to adjust the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Michael A. Soria
  • Patent number: 5577984
    Abstract: A frame for hanging exercise equipment includes a base having front and rear sides and opposite ends for resting on a floor. The base is further equipable with inclineable end extensions. Crossing first and second overhead supports have generally horizontal bars connecting vertical legs which are attached to the base sides in the case of the first support and the ends in the case of the second support. Fixed and slideable types of anchors are disposed on the supports for pivotally hanging exercise equipment. Horizontal guide bars are demountably attached between a pair of cross members which are height adjustably mounted on the legs of the first overhead support. The distance from the legs of the first overhead support to each horizontal guide bar is also adjustable. The guide bar ends are mounted to a tubular slide which slides over the end of the cross member. The slide can be selectively secured by a removable pin to any one of a plurality of spaced apart mounting holes in the cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Frank L. Bare, II
  • Patent number: 5569141
    Abstract: An inversion practice exerciser includes a base member including a horizontal beam and two side beams each attached to one distal end of the horizontal beam. A pair of handgrip members are each mounted on a corresponding one of the two side beams. A pair of upright members are mounted on the base member and each includes a lower post and an upper post pivotally engaged with each other. A pair of shoulder supporting members are each mounted on a corresponding one of the two upper posts and each have a buffer pad mounted thereon. A pair of buffer pads are mounted around an upper end portion of a corresponding one of the two upper posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Chen-chang Chou
  • Patent number: 5536222
    Abstract: An exercise device designed to be used with a rod or a bar. The exercise device is lightweight and detachable. It does not require clamps or screws to secure it to a tabletop. The exercise device is also portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventors: Jose A. Banda, James R. Langston
  • Patent number: 5527242
    Abstract: A specially designed foldable exercise apparatus is provided for doing pull-ups or chin-ups while the heels of the feet remain on the floor. It includes a chrome-plated steel base with welded vertical bar supports extendable upward on each side of the base, with an uninterrupted space provided between the vertical bar supports for the torso of user's body to be placed therebetween. The vertical supports extend upward with one on each side, approximately midway between a front edge and a rear edge of the base, so that the base extends outward in both directions from the vertical support bars. The pull-up supports are fabricated with apertures or notched vertical supports or hooks on the exterior for placement therein of a horizontal support bar which is movable. The support bar is preferably fabricated of tubular steel with rubber caps on each end to prevent slipping off the support bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventor: Robert B. Gangloff
  • Patent number: 5501647
    Abstract: Structural conduits and fittings are interconnected to form a stand having long, horizontal feet that extend close alongside opposite sides of a standard step aerobics exercise step. Upright legs of the stand have lower portions angled upward and outward from the feet, leading to upper vertical portions or columns that are offset outward from the opposite sides of the step. A horizontal hand bar used for balance is supported by the columns and can be adjusted up or down to accommodate users of different heights. The feet of the device can be swivelled so as to lie substantially in the same plane as the top bar and legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventor: Marnie Snyder
  • Patent number: 5496242
    Abstract: A pull-up exercising machine including two opposite handlebars fastened to an upright frame above a base frame, a revolving axle transversely fastened to the upright frame and spaced between handlebars and the base frame, a first supporting rod perpendicularly connected to the revolving axle in the middle, a second supporting rod perpendicularly connected to the revolving axle at one end, a platform hinged to the first supporting rod, a weight holder mounted on the second supporting rod to hold weights, two connecting rods bilaterally connected between the platform and the upright frame to maintain the platform horizontal, and a retracting air cylinder connected between the second supporting rod and the base frame, for buffering the upstroke of the platform to a speed that is safe for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Greenmaster Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 5411453
    Abstract: A device which mounts on uprights which enables an individual, when gripping it, to go through the range of motion of the pronated pull up exercise easier than gripping a round bar, due to an increase in muscle capacity. This is made possible by having two knobs for the thumbs to grasp projecting from the top of the device next to the center sides of two curves cut out of the top of the rectangular body of the device. In use, the device is first mounted on uprights that are high enough so that the user is suspended from the ground when gripping the device. The user then wraps his or her fingers around the curved openings and clutches the thumb knobs with his or her thumbs and performs the pronated pull up exercise, strengthening the muscles of the trunk and arms and stretching the back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Charles Wilson
  • Patent number: 5407404
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus incorporating lift assistance mechanism for pull-up and/or dip stand exercising including one or more interchangeable extensible, elastomeric links of various extensil resistances, arranged to upwardly bias a pivotally mounted lift bar, and having arranged in parallel therewith a hydraulic shock absorber type fluid cylinder functioning to limit the extent of downward movement of the lift bar when the cylinder is extended to its maximum length and limiting the rate of upward movement of the lift bar in the event of the user falling off. The elastomeric link is preferably longitudinally bifurcated with two lengthwise parts so that if one part breaks the other part is likely to remain intact and provide some degree of extensil resistance. Other exercise components can be included as well as parts of the apparatus, such as push-up handles, and padded cross bars for sit-up exercising and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignee: Tunturi, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian R. Killian, Peter L. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 5405306
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for stretching tendons, muscles and associated soft tissues of human joints. The apparatus includes a generality planar frame having two sides, two ends, a lower surface adapted to be supported by a ground support surface and an upper surface. An elongated upright support has a first end which is secured to the frame so that the second end of the upright support extends generally vertically upwardly from the frame. At least one pulley is secured adjacent the upper end of the upright support. Thereafter, an elongated cord has one end adapted to be secured to the limb of a human user and this cord extends through the pulley. The human user, by pulling on the cord, stretches the limb of the human user in the desired fashion. By attaching the cord to different limbs and assuming different positions, the human user can stretch his or her tendons, muscles and associated soft tissues of numerous joints and a numerous stretching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Inventors: Daniel S. Goldsmith, Walter J. Goldsmith, Michael P. Howell
  • Patent number: 5389055
    Abstract: A specially designed foldable exercise apparatus is provided for doing pull-ups or chin-ups while the heels of the feet remain on the floor. It includes a chrome-plated steel base with welded vertical bar supports extendable upward on each side of the base, with an uninterrupted space provided between the vertical bar supports for the torso of user's body to be placed therebetween. The vertical supports extend upward with one on each side, approximately midway between a front edge and a rear edge of the base, so that the base extends outward in both directions from the vertical support bars. The pull-up supports are fabricated with apertures or notched vertical supports or hooks on the exterior for placement therein of a horizontal support bar which is movable. The support bar is preferably fabricated of tubular steel with rubber caps on each end to prevent slipping off the support bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: Robert B. Gangloff
  • Patent number: 5372556
    Abstract: An assisted pull-up and dip exercise device (10) which includes a frame (12), with both a pull-up bar (22) and dip bar (24), capable of supporting a person while performing these exercises. The invention includes an assist arm assembly (40) which connects to the frame (12) at the pivot point about which the assist arm assembly (40) rotates. The assist arm assembly (40) can be loaded at one end to provide variable counter-balancing support for the person while performing the exercise. Assisted pull-up and dip device (10) allows a person to perform the pull-up and dip exercises with the knees in a tucked position. This is the natural position for a person performing these exercises unassisted. The assist arm assembly (40) can be constructed so as to use common free weights to load the assist arm assembly (40). This removes the requirement for specialized weights which can only be used on a single exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: John D. Ropp
  • Patent number: 5334119
    Abstract: A cupholder for supporting a hurdle boom (10) includes a gliding part (1) which is sleeve-like and mounted around a pillar so as to be moved vertically on the pillar and a support (2) on which the end of the boom (1) is supported. The sleeve-like gliding part is broken at one point and a locking apparatus for the gliding part if formed by a tightening apparatus which pulls the opposite edges of the gliding part towards each other so that the gliding part presses against the pillar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Inventor: Erkki M. Eloranta
  • Patent number: 5322489
    Abstract: An exercise machine for assisting a user in performing chin-ups and dips includes a pair of handles attached to a frame and a kneeling platform operably connected to the frame by a four-bar linkage. The pair of handles may be a pair of chin-up handles attached to an upper portion of the frame or a pair of dip handles attached to a medial portion of the frame. The four-bar linkage moves the kneeling platform along an arcuate path of travel corresponding to the natural arcuate path of the center of gravity of the user during a chin-up or a dip so that the kneeling platform remains beneath the user's center of gravity during performance of a chin-up or a dip. The four-bar linkage also preferably maintains the kneeling platform in a horizontal orientation. A selectable number of weights urge the kneeling platform upward so that the user may lift his body with his arms while applying a force less than his own body weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: Nautilus Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, William F. Halsey
  • Patent number: 5316527
    Abstract: A handle arrangement is disposed at the top end of the support and a base at the bottom end. The handle and the base are spaced from each other by a spacer, and the handle is disconnectably connectable to the spacer at one end while the base is disconnectably connectable to the spacer at the other end. The handle, spacer and base comprise tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Gregory Lekhtman
  • Patent number: 5299990
    Abstract: A tilting universal gym having an angular pivoting base and support frame adapted to carry removable weights, and which allows the universal gym frame to be operated from a standing position as a hanging bar, and then tipped over to perform weight lifting exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Tracy R. Mehlhoff
  • Patent number: 5290209
    Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a device is provided which is able to develop upper body strength, including doing exercising such as pull-ups, push-ups, tricep presses, tricep presses, dips, arm curls, flys, etc. Also with the device of the invention abdominal and leg muscles could be developed by such exercises as sit-ups, leg-lifts, leg extentions and back rests.The exercise device preferably comprises a horizontal bar adapted for being selectively gripped by the hands of a user or supporting the user's legs. A means is included for adjusting the length of the bar. At least two sets of vertical support structures support the bar at at least two based locations. Each of the vertical supports structures includes means for adjusting the length of its structure whereby the elevation of said bar may be varied in accordance with a particular exercise program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5277676
    Abstract: A method for enabling a person to apply gentle gravity traction to his spine by suspending his body by the arms while supporting some of his weight with his legs. The method, which is a modified form of "long axis-extension" gravity traction, describes a procedure wherein a trained therapist designs and supervises a treatment program unique to the individual based on a number of factors. The patient is at all times able to control the amount of weight that is applied to the injured portion. The patient is instructed in carrying out a treatment program and monitored as to progress and possible changes to the program. An apparatus is disclosed that is uniquely designed for use with the method. It is preferably constructed entirely of wood except for fastener elements and may be assembled and disassembled quickly without the use of any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Robert A. Holland
    Inventors: Robert A. Holland, Gary G. Reber
  • Patent number: 5224924
    Abstract: A back treatment device comprising a spaced pair of adjustable crutches (26L, 26R), for supporting the upper body of a user. Each crutch includes an air-inflatable underarm member (44) for comfort. A pair of forearm rests (140L, 140R) and a pair of padded handles (70L, 70R), all adjustable, are positioned such that a handle and rest are located laterally of a respective crutch. The three pairs are movably supported such that the user can be alternately supported on each pair or on combinations of pairs. A spring scale (90) is mounted between lower ends of the crutches such that the user sits on the scale while monitoring a conveniently located weight indicator. By slightly depressing his or her shoulders, the user uses the body support members (crutches, forearm rests, handles) to induce spinal traction. Feedback from the scale allows the user to accurately control the traction with minimum effort. Using the device takes pressure off of spinal discs while symmetrically strengthening supportive back muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Charles I. Urso
  • Patent number: 5221241
    Abstract: A gymnastic training device has a conventional training belt adapted to support a gymnast at the waist. A pair of elongated resilient supporting assemblies are attached to opposite sides of the training belt and are comprised of bungy cords which can be selectively added or removed with respect to the assemblies to adjust the resilient capabilities thereof. A pulley support means including a pair of laterally positioned pulleys and at least one elevated pulley are supported over the normal position of the training belt by either a self-standing frame or by a frame assembly attached to the ceiling of a building. A first cable has a center portion and opposite ends with the opposite ends being secured to each of the free ends of the elongated resilient supporting assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Inventor: Frank L. Bare, II
  • Patent number: 5221240
    Abstract: A door gym apparatus includes upper and lower mounts of telescoping configuration having swivel caps at their distal ends formed with C-shaped mounting clamp structure, wherein the mounting clamp structure includes friction pads to engage surfaces within a doorway or opposing wall surface within a hallway and the like within a dwelling. First and second guide loops mounted to the upper mount include first and second tether lines directed therethrough, wherein the tether lines have at their lower ends pivotal securement to elastomeric first and second resilient webs, with the tether lines having handle to permit manual grasping for exercise purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Inventors: Karen L. Mann, Gary E. Mann
  • Patent number: 5186696
    Abstract: A doorway bar support and operating unit combination in accordance with the present invention includes a two part cross bar assembly connected by a threaded shaft for spreading the bar assembly outwardly for frictional bearing engagement of pressure plate members on each outer end against the spaced apart upright members of a door frame. The pressure plate members include a receiving channel to receive therein the upright abutment strip along each upright member of the door frame against which the door abuts when swung to its closed position. Thus, the pressure plate members have a broad enough bearing surface to bear against the upright members of the door frame on both sides of the abutment strip, and to bear against the outer surface as well as side wall surfaces of the abutment strip itself which are snugly received in the receiving channel of each of the pressure plate members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventors: Troy Pfefferle, Melvin J. Fein
  • Patent number: 5180350
    Abstract: An exercise bar is rotatably mounted relative to a central support rod, the central rod including extension members extending coaxially and laterally of the bar for mounting within opposed vertical door frame portions. The bar includes an exterior shell rotatably mounted relative to an interior shell, wherein a modification of the invention includes a central rod portion of a first diameter less than that of spaced end portions to accommodate individuals of various sized hands for mounting onto the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Inventor: David D. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5180349
    Abstract: Apparatus for simulating the sag, bounce and side-to-side sway of a tightrope consists of a beam formed by placing one fiberglass tube within another and a pair of spaced support members for supporting the beam at a desired distance above and generally parallel to a horizontal support surface. When a user steps on the beam, the outer tube deflects at a first rate, determined by its mechanical characteristics, until it encounters the smaller diameter inner tube whereupon its resistance to deflection is added to that of the larger tube. The position of the supports may be adjusted along the length of beam to allow the apparatus to be used by persons of different weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Inventor: Richard E. Marcus
  • Patent number: 5156580
    Abstract: An apparatus for enabling a person to apply gentle gravity traction to his spine by suspending his body by the arms while supporting some of his weight with his legs. The apparatus is preferably constructed entirely of wood except for fastener elements and is designed to be assembled and disassembled quickly without the use of any tools. Included is a method of hanging from a support for treating an injured spine using a modified gravity traction procedure from that generally referred to as "long axis extension." A user grasps a support that has been positioned at a height such that he is able to maintain his spine and upper leg or thigh portions vertically aligned and with his lower leg portions horizontal to the floor and toes touching the floor enabling him to control the amount of weight to be supported by his arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Robert A. Holland
    Inventors: Robert A. Holland, Gary G. Reber
  • Patent number: 5135458
    Abstract: A multi-functional exercising machine includes a main structure, a jogging device, a rowing device, a stationary bicycle, a pulling spring, a shelf, a stand, a chair, and a pull-up bar. The stand is attached to the main structure while standing on the jogging device. The chair or the pull-up bar is attachable to the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Chin C. Huang
  • Patent number: 5118097
    Abstract: A pair of parallel bars forming part of a rectangular frame, mounted for rotation relative to two end handles and having locking pins to prevent rotation, adapted to be used for gymnastic exercises and to be carried by two ice skaters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Robin J. Cousins