Abstract: The invention provides a device to allow the user to perform the plank exercise without having to get on the floor that does not suffer from any of the problems or deficiencies associated with prior solutions. In a related embodiment, the invention includes the ability to do side planks for the oblique muscles and back planks where the user would be facing the anchor point.

Abstract: The present invention describes a specialized exercise apparatus and method for use that targets the muscles in and around the abdominal, oblique muscles and mid section of the body. The machine is comprised of a flat platform upon which an individual stands while grasping a pair of handlebars that are positioned at waist height. The handle bars are attached to the top of a vertical riser that extends downwardly and is attached to a pair of horizontal rotating pivot arms. The pivot arms are attached to the center of a rotating power pulley horizontally suspended by bearings below the forward area of said platform. The power pulley is connected by a belt to a resistance mechanism, such as a flywheel or turbine fan, again suspended by bearings, below the rear portion of said platform. In the flywheel adaptation of this invention, additional resistance is provided by an adjustable magnet that is controlled by a lever mounted to the side of the vertical riser.

Abstract: The present invention describes a specialized exercise apparatus and method for use that targets the muscles in and around the abdominal, oblique muscles and mid section of the body. The machine is comprised of a flat platform upon which an individual stands while grasping a pair of handlebars that are positioned at waist height. The handle bars are attached to the top of a vertical riser that extends downwardly and is attached to a pair of horizontal rotating pivot arms. The pivot arms are attached to the center of a rotating power pulley horizontally suspended by bearings below the forward area of said platform. The power pulley is connected by a belt to a resistance mechanism, such as a flywheel or turbine fan, again suspended by bearings, below the rear portion of said platform. In the flywheel adaptation of this invention, additional resistance is provided by an adjustable magnet that is controlled by a lever mounted to the side of the vertical riser.

Abstract: A planting hole forming apparatus includes a central shaft having a longitudinal axis, a bottom leading end and an upper trailing end, and a discontinuous flighting comprising a plurality of flighting sections spiraling around the central shaft at spaced locations along the shaft adjacent the bottom leading end. Some form of drive mechanism, for example a hand-held drill, is used to rotate the central shaft about its longitudinal axis to thereby form the planting hole. The drive mechanism is chosen to accommodate the size of the central shaft and to supply the necessary torque to rotate the central shaft sufficiently to form the planting hole. The structure of the flighting sections is such that while the planting hole is being formed the soil is simultaneously pulverized with a substantial portion of the pulverized soil being left in the hole.