Abstract: The problems of efficiency and safety when exercising the pectoral muscles are solved in at least one aspect while maintaining low-complexity and portability by a free weight barbell with translating hand grips, with the grips having an integral weight application loading surface that moves with the grip. Provided is an exercise lifting bar having at least two hand grips, an integral loading surface for holding optional plate weights coupled to each hand grip, the paired or coupled grips and loading surfaces thereby defining a member; the members further being substantially cylindrical, collinear, and operable to translate relative to one another. Also included is a translation limiter to limit the motion between the members.

Abstract: The problems of efficiency and safety when exercising the pectoral muscles are solved in at least one aspect while maintaining low-complexity and portability by a free weight barbell with translating hand grips, with the grips having an integral weight application loading surface that moves with the grip. Provided is an exercise lifting bar having at least two hand grips, an integral loading surface for holding optional plate weights coupled to each hand grip, the paired or coupled grips and loading surfaces thereby defining a member; the members further being substantially cylindrical, collinear, and operable to translate relative to one another. Also included is a translation limiter to limit the motion between the members. A method of assembly and exemplary embodiments of the exercise lifting bar for use in cable exercises are also provided.

Abstract: A method for assembling a fan platform for a gas turbine engine is provided. The method includes determining an area of vulnerability to impact and erosion damage across the platform, forming a sheet of cladding metal to substantially conform to a contour of the identified area of vulnerability of the platform, and bonding the cladding metal to the identified area of vulnerability.