Abstract: An abdominal exercise adapter comprising two wedges and a telescopic pole extending between the two wedges. Each wedge has a vertical edge, a horizontal edge, and a third edge extending between the former two. The third edge is concave shaped. A channel runs through the bottom of the horizontal edge. Vertical members of a lower frame of an abdominal exercise device fit in the channels of each wedge, thereby allowing the adapter to rest firmly on the exercise device. Vertical members of an upper frame of the exercise device cradle in the third edge of the adapter, thus preventing the frame from returning to a resting position. When the adapter is in use with an exercise device, a user endures a more challenging exercise session since the wedges of the adapter block the upper frame from descending past a certain point. Thus, the user is forced to keep her head off the head rest, and her stomach and abdominal muscles remain tense.

Abstract: Tie-strap comprising dual elongated body portons with holding eyelet projections at opposite ends, and a bridging member connecting side portions of the upper areas of the strap and the eyelet projections are affixed around a cable structure joined by coaxial connectors in a manner which allows the bridging member to lie taut in parallel relationship with said cable and across said connector in order to prevent separation of said connector.