Abstract: The present invention teaches a method for strengthening the muscles of the lower back and discloses an apparatus for practicing the method the invention. The method permits the user to partition the load between the back muscles and the arm muscles. In practicing the method, the user positions him/herself on a platform having a protrusion and an ankle engaging element. With the pelvic area supported by the protrusion and the ankles restrained by the ankle engaging element, the user engages supports with his/her hands. The user then lowers and raises his/her torso, distributing the load between the back muscles and the arm muscles, repeating the movements a number of times. At the user's discretion, the weight load can be redistributed between the back muscles and the arm muscles by reducing or increasing the load supported by his/her arms.

Abstract: The present invention is for an exercise device for strengthening the muscles of the lower back and a method for using the same. The device has hand rails provided which allow the user to vary the relative involvement of muscles of the lower back. The device has a protrusion with a ridge which supports the pelvic area of the user. Preferably the contour of the ridge is adjustable to ensure the comfort of the user. The device preferably has an ankle retaining means which is adjustable and into which the user's ankles can be slidably engaged with a pivotable motion of the body. This simplifies the positioning of the user on the device.

Abstract: A generally rectangular open frame having one side movable to admit a pair of skis into the frame and then movable back to complete the rectangular frame and hold the skis therein, also including a reel pivotally attached to another side of the frame with a cable wound on the reel which cable may be unwound and placed about some fixed post and be returned to the frame with a lock securing the frame closed with the skis therein and the cable locked to the frame. The reel when free of the skis may have the cable wound upon the spool and the spool then pivoted into the opening of the frame to be maintained in a compact position for storage.