Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter relate to an exercise device for torso rotations. The device includes a rotating assembly including an inclined, elevated, backwardly-oriented back rest and optionally a head rest and an arm assembly. The rotating assembly is configured to a effect a side-to-side rotation around a pivot point elevated above a base of the device and around an axis oriented along the device. When the user leans weight his upper back on the back rest to elevate his/her upper back, s/he may effect torso rotations that, in some embodiments, are resisted by a resistance assembly of the exercise device.

Abstract: An exercise machine (100) for exercising the rotary torso muscles of the human body, whereupon a user's body is supported in a generally supine position. The machine is comprised of a frame structure (101) with a rotable upper torso support (105) (including a head and back rest (121)), a rotatable lower torso support (103) (including a seat (119)) and feet stabilizing rollers (110), aligned longitudinally. The device further comprises a knee cushion (104) for rotating the lower torso support (103) and a peg (106) upon a weight support arm (127) for holding free weights that impart resistance against the rotation of the upper and lower torso supports (105, 103). Supplemental resistance to the rotation movement may be provided by a belt mechanism (180 of FIG. 4) including a belt (181) wrapped around a cam (151) connected to the axle (157) of the upper torso support (105) and up through the weight support arm upon which free weights are placed.