Abstract: An exercise machine for simulating cross-country ski-ing comprising a pair of side rails two end members, two runners running along the side rails and a base plate to which a pair of ski poles are attached. The runners are connected by a flat nylon webbing tape which slides frictionally over the end members as the runners are moved backwards and forwards.

Abstract: An exercising machine includes a pair of inclined guide tracks on each of which a foot-supporting member is arranged to slide frictionally, and the foot-supporting members are interconnected by an elongate flexible tension-bearing element, specifically a flat strap, which slides frictionally over stationary guides.

Abstract: A workbench of a collapsible nature includes a top structure comprising a pair of vice members. These can either be spaced from a supporting surface in a first work-mode at saw-horse height or, by lowering of legs, in a second work-mode at full height.Each vise member is provided with two rows of cylindrical bores in which the shank portions of abutment members are axially and slidably received with a snug fit and are thereafter rotatable about a vertical axis to enable the gripping faces of the abutment members to self-align with a workpiece clamped between the abutment members.

Abstract: Exercising equipment of the rowing machine type, with a foot rest, a sliding seat, and a pivoted T handle. Work done by the user in pulling the handle backwards is dissipated by a flat strap of nylon webbing, attached at one end to the handle, and running in an undulating path between a series of cylindrical guides to a springloaded drum which maintains a tension in the strap, to generate friction between the strap and the guides. Some of the guides are adjustable to vary the angle of wrap of the strap around the guides, and thereby vary the amount of friction, by means of a cam and follower arrangement. A spring loaded blocking device attached to the handle is provided to relieve the strap tension to facilitate operation of the cam and follower.

Abstract: In the illustrative embodiments disclosed, a folding portable multiple-purpose work unit is interchangeably useable in three main work modes: as a stepladder, as a step stool, and as a small workbench having a vise. The substructure of the unit includes front and rear leg frames, the front frame having two steps, and is foldable to allow ready storage of the unit. The vise unit forms the top of the substructure. A seat member covers the vise unit when the work unit is in the step stool and stepladder modes and pivots to uncover the vise unit in the workbench mode. When so pivoted off the vise unit, the seat member forms a tool tray which also blocks use of the work unit as a stool or ladder while the seat is not in place.