Abstract: An improved spreader bar for spreading apart the cords which connect the body supporting member of a hammock to a support structure and suspend it therefrom is disclosed. The spreader bar is positioned adjacent each of the longitudinal end portions of the body supporting member and is provided with spaced apertures which receive the cords therein. The spreader bar is curved outwardly relative to the body supporting member in order to evenly distribute the suspension forces exerted on the aperture walls by the cords. The spreader bar is also split proximal to or at the apertures into upper and lower members to provide access to the apertures through top portions thereof when the upper and lower members are separated and thereby facilitate insertion of the cords therein when the upper and lower members are separated.

Abstract: An improved hammock includes a body supporting member for a user to lie on, suspension cords, retainer rings and ropes for attachment to an external support structure. The cords interconnect the rings and body supporting member at longitudinal end portions thereof so that the body supporting member may be suspended from the external support structure. A pair of spreader bars positioned adjacent the longitudinal end portions of the body supporting member are provided with spaced apertures which receive the suspension cords therein and laterally space apart the cords in order to laterally extend the body supporting member to provide full and adequate lateral support to the user. The spreader bars are laterally curved outwardly and are split proximal to or at the apertures into upper and lower members to provide open access to the apertures so that the cords may be inserted into the apertures when the upper and lower members are separated.