Abstract: An electromechanical device that provides a spot to a weightlifter performing a weightlifting exercise. The device has a metal frame that supports two arms, called spotter arms. The two spotter arms extend out so as to be able to support a barbell. The arms raise and lower on the frame, remaining parallel with the floor and perpendicular to the frame and are powered by a motor driven lead screw. The operation of the motor is controlled by a computer control system. The input to the control system is provided by a load-cell mounted in one of the two spotter arms. When the control system is operating in the spot mode, the load-cell measures the amount of force that is placed on the spotter arm by the barbell held by the weightlifter. The control system then moves the spotter arms in accordance with the amount of force on the load-cell in order to provide a safe spot thereby increasing the effectiveness of the exercise. The load-cell is mounted within a hollow interior of one of the spotter arms.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed weightlifting bench that is provided with an adjustable foot rest and an adjustable knee support. The bench is made of a frame that includes arms that support an Olympic or other weightlifting bar. A pair of pads are mounted to the top of the frame of the bench. The adjustable foot rest is mounted to the frame of the bench. The adjustable foot rest is made of an extendable arm that pivotally mounts to the frame of the bench. A foot pad is mounted at the top of the extendable arm. An adjustable knee support is provided in the center of the bench.

Abstract: An automated spotting device for use with free-weight barbells that is comprised of a mechanical device operated by a computerized drive controller. The mechanical device is comprised of a frame having a vertically movable center section that supports two horizontal spotter arms, which spot the barbells. The movable center section is mechanically engaged to an electric motor by a lead screw. The computerized drive controller regulates the operation of the electric motor, thereby moving the spotter arms between upper and lower spot positions, to increase the safety and effectiveness of free-weight training.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed weightlifting bench that is provided with an adjustable foot rest and an adjustable knee support. The bench is made of a frame that includes arms that support an Olympic or other weightlifting bar. A pair of pads are mounted to the top of the frame of the bench. The adjustable foot rest is mounted to the frame of the bench. The adjustable foot rest is made of an extendable arm that pivotally mounts to the frame of the bench. A foot pad is mounted at the top of the extendable arm. An adjustable knee support is provided in the center of the bench.