Including Stationary Support For Weight Patents (Class 482/94)
  • Patent number: 6811521
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sporting apparatus (1) to carry out exercises according to the natural physiological trajectory of each person, comprising a support structure (2), or frame, provided with lateral elements (11), with base or resting elements (4) for said lateral elements (11), and with at least a transverse element (19) for fixing said lateral elements (11), the sporting apparatus (1) further providing two sliding elements (3), or poles, substantially vertically provided in correspondence of said lateral elements (11) of the frame (2), said sliding elements (3) being hinged above the same lateral elements (11), and being freely oscillating along said base (4) or resting elements of said lateral elements (11), and provided with guide means (6, 7) to guide the sliding of a weight (9) bearing bar (8); and a counterweight transverse element (10), provided above said sliding elements (3), in such a way to join the same, thus creating a single oscillating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Laser Fit di Musso Giuseppe
    Inventor: Giuseppe Musso
  • Publication number: 20040209746
    Abstract: An exercise machine and an associated method of exercising that isolates and exercises the anterior deltoid muscles. The exercise machine provides articulating arm elements that support contact surfaces near the biceps of a person who is exercising. To perform the exercise, a person places his/her biceps against the contact surfaces of the articulating arm elements and attempts to elevate their arms forward about their shoulders. The contact surfaces press against the bicep regions of the person's arms and resist the movement. Since the resistance force is applied directly to the upper arm, the exercise does not involve any muscles in the hand, wrist or lower arm. Nearly all of the action needed to perform the exercise is dedicated to the anterior deltoid muscle group. Thus, the anterior deltoid muscle group is isolated for the exercise routine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Amy Spiegel
  • Publication number: 20040209745
    Abstract: An exercise machine to train the hamstring group of muscles including a base, said base being formed of frame members, a knee rest provided upon the base, a frame member extending rearwardly supporting a cross support, whereby the exerciser rests upon the kneel rest and places his/her ankles under the ankle support, a vertical framework pivotally mounted to the base, the upper end of the vertical framework including a chest support, while various weights may be attached to the proximate bottom of the vertical framework to regulate the amount of stress exerted upon the user while exercising upon the exercise machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Dennis P. Riney, Brady Joseph Mattingly
  • Publication number: 20040209752
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a motion arm with a handle with two hand grips and an optional support pad contacted by the forearms, chest, back or side of the user and pivotable 180 degrees up and down and 180 degrees to the sides used by an exerciser in a standing position. Pushing the motion arm and leaning forward in a straight body position stretches the abs, shoulders, arms and back muscles. Pulling the motion arm and leaning back to the straight standing position contracts the abs, shoulders, arms, and back muscles. Legs, hip and butt exercises may preformed by standing at a slight angle and leaning the chest, forearms or back against the optional support pad and bending the legs at the knees or at the ankles. A base may have a fixed or an adjustable by length and angle foot platform. The motion arm is connected to a lower or upper motion arm support by a pivot, roller or slider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence W. Thonn
  • Patent number: 6770017
    Abstract: A weight training machine includes a main frame, a lever carriage mechanism, an adjustment linkage and a stop mechanism. A lever carriage mechanism is pivotally connected to the main frame. The lever carriage mechanism includes a weight carrying portion adapted to carry at least one weight. An input mechanism is connected to the lever carriage mechanism. The adjustment linkage is connected between the lever carriage mechanism and the main frame and is configured to selectively adjust an arc of rotation of the weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism about the main frame such that the weight carrying portion may selectively traverse each of a plurality of predefined strength curves in response to movement of the input mechanism by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Strive Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry Keith Leipheimer
  • Publication number: 20040132588
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device in particular for use in the field of sport practice and body-building, for a person's muscular exercise. Said device enables the development of quadriceps and of the gluteal muscles and comprises a support surface for the feet and means for applying a force of resistance to the movements of the person's legs to shift from a bent position to an extending position by unfolding the knees. The invention is characterised in that the force applying means comprise a harness pressing on the upper side of the thighs. The invention is applicable to the manufacture of body-building machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Talo
  • Publication number: 20040082443
    Abstract: A resistive exercise system for enabling individuals of a weakened physical condition to perform various resistive exercises. The resistive exercise system includes a frame structure, a seat member secured within the frame structure at a low entry level, a pair of opposing arm supports attached to the frame structure, a plurality of weight members adjustably positioned upon a weight shaft, and a plurality of cables attached to the weight shaft each having a handle attached thereto. A tubular support member is attached to the front of the frame structure for receiving an elongate tongue member that supports a resistance pedal structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Norman G. Britt, P.T.
  • Patent number: 6719673
    Abstract: A multi-exercise station apparatus which, when not in use, has plural cables entrained about support pulleys to obviate slack and when a selected taut cable is pulled, a distal end thereof is effective to raise a weight from a weight stack for resistance, wherein the ballast of the weight stack provides said slack function and a pulley on said exercise stack provides said resistance function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jack LaPlaca
  • Publication number: 20040067825
    Abstract: A control system and a method for controlling activation of at least one exercise weight. According to an embodiment of the invention the system may includine at least one linking terminal associated with the at least one exercise weight, respectively, and at least one linking channel to associate between a control device and the at least one linking terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Nir Daniel
  • Patent number: 6716143
    Abstract: An exercising system for use by wheelchair bound users, uses a platform that has a pair of rollers on which the user can stationarily roll the wheelchair. A first pulley allows the user to perform reciprocating up and down rope and pulley exercises, while a pair of foot pedals allow for lower body exercising. The foot pedals can be attached to the platform and can have a rope over a pulley assist mechanism or the foot pedals can be attached directly to the wheelchair and can operate independently of the platform. A punching bag or other similar item can be attached to the exercising system in order to increase the range of physical activities that can be performed by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Wallace Kent Martin
  • Patent number: 6709370
    Abstract: A vertically and angularly adjustable dumbbell holder is provided which allows for positioning of the dumbbell for various exercises. Multiple dumbbells may be supported from a single elongated weight bench and angularly and vertically positioned for a variety of exercises. The dumbbells are held in position by side supports when the dumbbell handles are used as a base support for exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Steven Lee Evans
  • Publication number: 20040048723
    Abstract: A squat rack squat rack which is mountable to an overhead support beam between respective walls above a floor of a room for a person to perform squat-type exercises. The squat rack includes a pair of barbell support frames each having a frame mount and a cradle adapted to retain one end portion of the lifting bar. Each support frame is comprised of a plurality of plate members, the cradle comprising a J-shaped member having an upper end portion, a lower hook, and a central portion disposed therebetween. The J-shaped member adjustably connects to a generally vertically-disposed surface of the frame mount at a plurality of vertical positions to facilitate use by persons of different heights. The suspended squat rack further includes a pair of mounting assemblies each comprising a clamp adapted to attach to a horizontally disposed flange which extends from a web of the overhead support beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Marco Parrilla
  • Publication number: 20040029687
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a primary resistance unit and a secondary resistance unit offering two resisted planes of movement, with the two resistance units being adjustably independently of one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Simon Alan Hogg
  • Patent number: 6689022
    Abstract: A weight plate lifting apparatus includes base member, an upright member attached to the base, a generally horizontal weight plate arm member attached to the upright member and a handle member attached to an upper portion of the upright member. The device allows the user to lift a desired number of weight plates by providing a handle at a location vertically above the weight plates thus reducing the distance toward the floor the user must bend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Publication number: 20040023761
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for performing resistance exercise, allowing the user to select from multiple, biomechanically appropriate resistance exercise movements and thereby control a (prior art) computer game or video game, providing sound strength-building exercise in an entertaining manner. The apparatus has multiple actuators from which the user may select, each coupled to an appropriate resistance, and each having a range of motion corresponding to the natural exercise range of a large muscle or muscle group. The actuator movements are detected and used to control the game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Scott Emery
  • Publication number: 20040009854
    Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing muscle strength is designed based on a curve of relation between joint angle and producible muscle strength, and includes a resistance-varying device that provides progressive resistances to give a trainee's body area being trained the most suitable load when the joint angle at the trained area changes. The resistance-varying device is embodied through serially connected four-bar linkages, two-bar linkages, or tension cords pivotally connected to one lateral side of weights of the apparatus with pins. Strength exerted by the trainee at the trained area is transmitted via a steel cord to pull a top weight upward and sequentially stretch the linkages or tension cords open, so that subsequent weights are pulled upward one by one until the last linkage or tension cord is fully stretched. A method using the apparatus to enhance muscle strength meets the human engineering and avoids unwanted injury of trained muscles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Applicant: Unique Kinetech Corporation
    Inventors: Tzyy Yuang Shiang, Chiang Liu, Shun Hwa Wei, Yu Liu
  • Publication number: 20040009855
    Abstract: A composite motion exercise machine has a main frame, a user support, an exercise arm, a movable wedge, a connecting device, and a load. The user support and exercise arm are pivotally linked directly or indirectly to the main frame, and the movable wedge has first and second travel members in moving engagement with rails on the main frame and user support, respectively. The connecting device links the movable wedge to the exercise arm, such that movement of the exercise arm moves the wedge along the rails to lift the user support in an arcuate path away from the main frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Publication number: 20040002409
    Abstract: An exercise machine for performing leg curl and leg extension movements includes: a frame configured to rest on an underlying surface; an upper leg-supporting assembly pivotally interconnected with the frame, the upper leg-supporting assembly having a seat pad; a torso-supporting assembly pivotally interconnected with the frame and with the upper leg-supporting assembly, the torso-supporting assembly having a backrest pad; a leg curl assembly arm pivotally interconnected with the frame about a first pivot axis; a leg extension assembly arm pivotally interconnected with the frame about a second pivot axis; a resistance-imparting unit coupled with the leg curl movement arm and the leg extension movement arm; and a conversion mechanism interconnected with the frame and/or the torso-supporting assembly and the upper leg-supporting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Michael Wayne Morris
  • Patent number: 6666800
    Abstract: A weight stack exercise machine includes a stack of primary weights movably mounted on a frame, and at least one counter-weight which is selectively alternated between an inactive state, supported by the frame, and an active state, exerting a counter-weight force relative to the top plate in the stack of primary weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Publication number: 20030232702
    Abstract: In a gymnastic apparatus, the actuator (22) is fitted in fixed angular position to a first shaft (16) to oscillate from initial to final position, normally maintained in initial position by a weight unit (8) and connected to the weight unit (8) by means of a driving device (33) provided with a cam (38) splined on a second shaft (34) transversal to the first shaft (16); two gears (37) are joined in angular position to the first and second shaft (16, 34), respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Applicant: PANATTA SPORT S.R.L.
    Inventor: Rodolfo Panatta
  • Patent number: 6641509
    Abstract: A multifunctional exercise device comprises a base, an arm-building mechanism, a leg-building mechanism, a weight unit, and a transmission mechanism. The base is formed of a seat and a plurality of rod members. The arm-building mechanism is mounted on the top of the base and is formed of two fitting members, with each being provided with two support rods for supporting a pull rod which is selectively held in the retaining holes of the support rods. The fitting members are pivotally fastened with a connection rod which is in turn pivoted with a bias rod. The leg-building mechanism is connected with the arm-building mechanism. The weight unit is disposed on the arm-building mechanism and is composed of a resistance rod and a plurality of weights which are fitted over the resistance rod for providing the exercise device with a damping effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 6641510
    Abstract: There is provided a unique weight lifting spotting pin which provides an assist to the weight lifter to speed the development of his lifting ability. The inventive spotter pins mount to typical weight lifting power rack to provide a rest for a weight bar. A helical spring forms the weight bearing element of the spotter pin, flexing downwardly under the weight of the resting weight bar. As a lifter begins to lift the weight bar, the helical spring tends to return to its natural, unflexed position, thereby helping to snap the weight bar upwardly from the spotter pin. With an assist in initiating the lift, a weight lifter may more rapidly increase his lift weight, thereby speeding the training time required to achieve a desired weight lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Larry Koenig
  • Patent number: 6632159
    Abstract: An electromechanical device that provides a spot to a weightlifter performing a weightlifting exercise. The device has a metal frame that supports two arms, called spotter arms. The two spotter arms extend out so as to be able to support a barbell. The arms raise and lower on the frame, remaining parallel with the floor and perpendicular to the frame and are powered by a motor driven lead screw. The operation of the motor is controlled by a computer control system. The input to the control system is provided by a load-cell mounted in one of the two spotter arms. When the control system is operating in the spot mode, the load-cell measures the amount of force that is placed on the spotter arm by the barbell held by the weightlifter. The control system then moves the spotter arms in accordance with the amount of force on the load-cell in order to provide a safe spot thereby increasing the effectiveness of the exercise. The load-cell is mounted within a hollow interior of one of the spotter arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: J. Patrick Slattery
  • Publication number: 20030171188
    Abstract: An exercise monitoring system. The monitoring system is configured to acquire workout information from an exercise equipment device that includes a set of selectable resistive elements, such as a weight stack. The monitoring system includes a testing subsystem, sensing subsystem, and processor that cooperate to acquire the workout information by monitoring the set of selectable resistive elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Dallas B. Neil
  • Patent number: 6595902
    Abstract: A weight training and toning device that has a frame which supports a horizontal platform. A roller assembly is mounted on the frame for movement between an inactive position to an active position. When the roller is in the active position, the device is supported on the roller and can be rolled easily from one location to another location. More specifically, a pulley stand is attached to the bench and storage racks for weight plates and barbell assemblies are supported on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventors: Michael J. Savage, Lev Shulyak
  • Publication number: 20030096681
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus has an exercise station that is selectively moved by a user and has first and second weight stacks that provide selected resistance to movement of the exercise station. The exercise apparatus includes: (A) a frame; (B) an exercise station; (C) a first weight stack; (D) a second weight stack; and (E) a coupling system configured to selectively couple: (i) the first weight stack; and (ii) the second weight stack to the exercise station such that movement of the exercise station requires movement of at least one plate from each of: (i) the first weight stack; and (ii) the second weight stack. A coupling member couples the first weight stack to the second weight stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Clinton S. Myers, Mike Olson
  • Patent number: 6561957
    Abstract: A translational exercise machine with horizontal free planar motion, has a base frame, supporting an optional upper horizontal frame with seat and backrests supporting the user, and supporting an intermediate wheeled horizontal frame, supporting an upper wheeled frame. A vertical frame with horizontal handlebar with hand/foot grips is provided, which frame is optionally attached to the upper horizontal frame, or to the upper wheeled horizontal frame. With hand or foot use of the hand/foot grips, the user can propel self and wheeled frames in any horizontal motion. Exercise is caused by acceleration of the user and wheeled frame masses in a horizontal plane, and by braking assemblies between frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Allen Read
  • Patent number: 6561956
    Abstract: The combination with liftable apparatus, including at least one weight, includes an assembly comprising at least one generally upright guide or housing supported by a base to extend near at least one weight, at least one elongated cord extending in proximity to the guide, or within the housing, the cord being resiliently stretchable and having a lower end retained relative to the base, the cord having an upper end portion configured to be lifted with the weight, whereby when said assembly is lifted, the cord becomes resiliently stretched to resist such lifting. Multiple such cords can be provided to extend in parallel, and may be coded as by color, for cord selection to provide selected added resistance to weight lifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Kasper Allison
  • Patent number: 6547704
    Abstract: A muscle stretching apparatus comprising a frame with adjustable extremity grips, a fulcrum, adjustable leg braces, and leg support assemblies with padded rollers, lever handles that allow an aide to push upward providing additional stretching assistance. The apparatus further comprises an adjustable frame which comprises lever handles. A human with lower extremities on the fulcrum and arm extremities on the extremity grips, by a combination of pushing, pulling, or pushing and pulling, can accomplish a variety of stretching exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: John Parrillo
  • Publication number: 20030064868
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for exercise machines having balancing loads. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a load guide pivotable through at least one plane of freedom, a load slideably engaged with the load guide, a lift arm having a first end coupled to the load guide, and a cable-and-pulley device. The cable-and-pulley device is operatively coupled to the load and to the lift arm so that a training force applied to the lift arm induces a lift force on the load. The exercise machine requires the user to balance the load as the load is raised, providing a more enhanced workout. In alternate embodiments, the load guide may include at least one rocker engageable with the floor surface, or may be pivotably coupled to a support frame (or base) so that the load guide does not contact the floor surface. In another embodiment, the load guide may include a base having a convex surface engageable with the floor surface, the load guide being pivotable in any direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: A. Buell Ish, L. Kent Lines, William D. MacLean
  • Patent number: 6540650
    Abstract: Weights are selectively engaged by a weight selector assembly for movement during exercise activity. The weights are engaged by a selector member which is operable only when the weight selector assembly is docked relative to a weight supporting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Publication number: 20030060343
    Abstract: A multiple exercise performance or positioning apparatus comprising a generally upright stationary frame on which is mounted an elongated arm mechanism which is mounted on a pivot mechanism, the arm mechanism extending from a proximal end to a distal end relative to the frame, the pivot mechanism enabling pivoting of the arm mechanism such that the distal end of the arm mechanism is adjustably movable between positions of variable distance away from the frame, wherein a cable mechanism is mounted around one or more pulleys, the cable mechanism having a first end interconnected to a handle mechanism which is mounted at the distal end of the elongated arm mechanism, the cable mechanism being interconnected to a weight resistance mechanism such that a user may grasp and pull the handle mechanism against an opposing force exerted by the weight resistance mechanism through the cable mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Sechrest, Raymond Giannelli, Stephen C. Wendt, Scott Lee
  • Publication number: 20030036465
    Abstract: Control means for controlling the activation of exercising loads are disclosed. According an embodiment of the invention the control means comprising at least one linking channel connectable to a control system, and at least one link terminal in active communication with the linking channel, wherein said at least one link terminal is associatable with said exercising load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Nir Daniel
  • Publication number: 20030032529
    Abstract: A device for measuring at least one current mechanical state parameter of a mobile counterweight on an exercise machine with counterweights, in which the counterweight comprises a plurality of weights placed one on top of another, whose number can be selected using a selection pin, which can be attached as required to one of the weights, so as to define a counterweight with a predetermined weight. The device comprises means for generating a signal that indicates the instantaneous position of the pin relative to a predetermined reference part and means for detecting the signal. The generation means and the detector means are directly opposite one another and separated by the distance which the signal covers only once so that the length of the signal path is minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Applicant: Technogym S.p.A.
    Inventors: Nerio Alessandri, Roberto Zini
  • Publication number: 20030032530
    Abstract: A multiple exercise performance or positioning apparatus comprising a generally upright stationary frame on which is mounted an elongated arm mechanism which is mounted on a pivot mechanism, the arm mechanism extending from a proximal end to a distal end relative to the frame, the pivot mechanism enabling pivoting of the arm mechanism such that the distal end of the arm mechanism is adjustably movable between positions of variable distance away from the frame, wherein a cable mechanism is mounted around one or more pulleys, the cable mechanism having a first end interconnected to a handle mechanism which is mounted at the distal end of the elongated arm mechanism, the cable mechanism being interconnected to a weight resistance mechanism such that a user may grasp and pull the handle mechanism against an opposing force exerted by the weight resistance mechanism through the cable mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Sechrest, Raymond Giannelli, Stephen C. Wendt, Scott Lee
  • Publication number: 20030027694
    Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the muscles of the upper body, in which a pushing or pulling movement can be performed in a direction approxemalty between horizontal and vertical towards or away from the shoulder joint of the user, with the user seated in the same position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: John James Harrison
  • Publication number: 20030022767
    Abstract: An exercise arm apparatus has a stationary frame member, a first pivoting arm pivoted to the frame member at a location intermediate its ends for rotation about a first pivot axis, a second pivoting arm pivotally connected to the frame member for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced from the first pivot axis, and a connecting link pivotally connected to the first arm and second arm to form a four-bar linkage. The first arm is an exercise arm with handles at one end for gripping by a user, and the connecting link is of sufficient weight to form a counter-weight to counter-balance the first exercise arm into a rest position corresponding to a start position for an exercise movement. In one example the connecting link is a solid, elongate bar of heavy metal or equivalent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Publication number: 20030017918
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, a pair of arm assemblies, a pair of handle units, a coupling unit, and a resistance-imparting unit. Each of the arm assemblies has an arm and a mounting unit connected with the frame and the proximal end of the arm. The mounting units are configured such that the arm can pivot relative to the frame about a first generally vertical axis and about a second generally horizontal axis, the movement about the first axis being over a range of at least 50 degrees. The handle units are associated with a respective one of the distal ends of the arms and are moveable away from that distal end. The coupling unit is attached to each of the pair of handle units. The resistance-imparting unit is attached to the coupling unit and resists movement of the handle units away from the distal ends of the arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Gary Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20020198087
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a frame configured to rest on an underlying surface; a seat mounted to the frame and configured to receive a seated user; a pair of support pads mounted to the frame forwardly of and above the seat, each of the support pads being positioned to engage the upper arms and/or elbows of the seated user; a pair of movement arm units pivotally interconnected with the frame and movable about respective generally horizontal axes of rotation; and a resistance system connected with the movement arm units. Each of the pair of movement arm units is configured to engage the forearms and/or the hands of the user and is movable between a retracted position, in which the seated user's arms are bent, and an extended position, in which the user's arms are extended, the axes of rotation forming an angle of between about 115 and 155 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Gary Mitchell, Gregory M. Webb
  • Publication number: 20020193214
    Abstract: Actuator assemblies for adjustment mechanisms of exercise machines. In one embodiment, an actuator assembly includes a connecting member having a first end attached to the adjustment mechanism and a second end, a shaft rotatably coupled to the exercise machine proximate the second end, an actuating handle attached to the shaft, and a coupling member attached to the second end of the connecting member and having an engagement portion contacting an actuating portion of the shaft. As the shaft is rotated, the actuating portion of the shaft pushes the engagement portion of the coupling member, tensioning the connecting member and actuating the adjustment mechanism. The actuator mechanism advantageously reduces wear and breakage of the connecting member. In another embodiment, the shaft may be rotated in either a forward or an aft direction, improving the convenience of the actuator assembly for the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: A. Buell Ish
  • Publication number: 20020183171
    Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the hamstrings includes at least one weight; a weight support surface below the weight; an upright weight guide shaft laterally spaced apart from the weight; a weight displacement pedal slidably mounted to the pedal guide shaft; a machine frame; a generally horizontal pulley axle secured to the machine frame at a position higher than the weight and higher than the weight displacement pedal and laterally between the weight and the pedal guide shaft; a pulley mounted on the pulley axle so that the pulley is rotatable relative to the machine frame; a cable extending over and riding on the pulley and having a cable distal end secured to the weight and having a cable proximal end secured to the weight displacement pedal, the cable being of a length so that when the weight rests on the weight support surface the weight displacement pedal is elevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Vincent Anthony Taylor, Michael M. Anthony
  • Patent number: 6485398
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus to strengthen the abdominal and oblique muscles in a relaxed state by kneeling and twisting the lower torso. An embodiment configured according to principles of the invention includes a height-adjustable, contoured knee rest rotatingly mounted on a base. Handles extend from the base to where a user may comfortably grasp the handles while kneeling on the knee rest. The user exercises with the present exercise apparatus by urging the user's lower torso to rotate the knee rest. Rotation may be resisted by increasing the inertia of the knee rest with weights suspended from weight arms connected to the knee rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Paul H. Kreft
  • Publication number: 20020147086
    Abstract: A removable back support apparatus, for use with a multi-purpose weight lifting machine, having a substantially vertically disposed back rest. One or more transverse cross members are each fastened, near a respective horizontal center portion thereof, to the back rest by two respective rear face fasteners. At least one of the transverse cross members allows ready and removable attachment of the removable back support apparatus to the multi-purpose weight lifting machine without the use of hand tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Michael J. Walsh
  • Publication number: 20020142893
    Abstract: There is provided a unique weight lifting spotting pin which provides an assist to the weight lifter to speed the development of his lifting ability. The inventive spotter pins mount to typical weight lifting power rack to provide a rest for a weight bar. A helical spring forms the weight bearing element of the spotter pin, flexing downwardly under the weight of the resting weight bar. As a lifter begins to lift the weight bar, the helical spring tends to return to its natural, unflexed position, thereby helping to snap the weight bar upwardly from the spotter pin. With an assist in initiating the lift, a weight lifter may more rapidly increase his lift weight, thereby speeding the training time required to achieve a desired weight lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Larry Koenig
  • Publication number: 20020137605
    Abstract: A multi-function weight training apparatus including a support base, a linear motion beam, a resistance adjusting carriage, a main carriage, a weight carriage and a cable. The linear motion beam is rotatably mounted to the base. The resistance adjusting carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam, wherein the resistance adjusting carriage is selectively positionable on the linear motion beam. The main carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam. The weight carriage is mounted with respect to the support base. The cable operably connects the weight carriage to the main carriage while an intermediate portion of the cable engages the resistance adjusting carriage. Moving the main carriage with respect to the linear motion beam causes the weight carriage to move with respect to the support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Brian Olsen
  • Patent number: 6450927
    Abstract: An exercise assistance device in which an exerciser is positioned upon a support platform resting on a support surface includes a support arrangement and first and second uprights disposed on opposite sides of the support platform. Each upright is pivotally mounted at a lowermost end thereof to the support arrangement at a point beneath the support platform and adjacent the support surface between a rearwardly angled storage position, and a nearly vertical lift off position. The uprights include retaining structure on an upward end thereof for maintaining the weight bar in a substantially horizontal position. When the uprights are moved from the storage position to the lift off position and the weight bar is removed from the retaining structure, the uprights will automatically return to the storage position to permit the exerciser to move the weight bar between the raised and lowered positions without interference of the uprights and retaining structure mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Northland Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick D. Ellis
  • Publication number: 20020128132
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pad for use on a conventional exercise machine. The pad of the present invention comprises an elongated foam core having a bar receiving opening formed longitudinally therethrough and formed in the shape of two oppositely directed, truncated cones positioned in point to point relation to one another, and leather, or other durable material, covering the foam. Alternatively, the pad may be shaped in the form of two wedges positioned in point to point relation to one another (e.g., two truncated cones bisected along their longitudinal axes and positioned in point to point relation to one another).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas LaFountain
  • Patent number: 6447430
    Abstract: Exercise machine having a frame with a pair of upstanding sections disposed substantially at right angles to each other, a weight stack mounted on each of the frame sections, a cable coupled to each of the weight stacks for transferring a pull on the cable to the weights in the stack, a pulley block through which the cable is pulled, a leg connected to each of the frame sections for movement between a supporting position and a storage position, interlock means engagable between the legs and respective ones of the weight stacks for preventing the weights from being raised when the legs are in the storage position, a bench which is removably connected to the frame and can be folded up between the two frame sections for storage, a carriage mounted on each of the frame sections and adapted to be positioned at different heights, and means mounting one of the pulley blocks on each of the carriages such that each of the pulley blocks is free to pivot about two axes of rotation so that the pulley block can follow the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Brian R. Cook
  • Patent number: 6436013
    Abstract: A weight stack exercise machine includes a stack of primary weights movably mounted on a frame, and at least one counter-weight which is selectively movable between an inactive position, supported by the frame, and an active position, acting on the top plate in the stack of primary weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Publication number: 20020111254
    Abstract: An exercise machine having a frame that readily receives a wheel chair and provides left and right exercise stations that are readily vertically adjustable and pivotable to provide a wide variety of exercises for the arms and legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Rodrick John O'Hearn