TRI-CIRCULAR EXERCISE DEVICE WITH VARIABLE ROTATION RESISTANCE

Abstract

One example embodiment includes a system for allowing a user to exercise. The system includes a first plate, where the first plate is configured to rotate about a center point. The system also includes a second plate. The second plate is attached to the first plate and is configured to rotate about the attachment point to the first plate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,817 filed on May 17, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE FITNESS CHAMBER FOR ROTATIONAL TORQUE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.1), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE FITNESS CHAMBER FOR ROTATIONAL TORQUE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.1) claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,784 filed on May 17, 20101, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “BALL NEST WITH VARIABLE RESISTANCE FOR FITNESS AND WELLNESS MOVEMENT” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.2), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “BALL NEST WITH VARIABLE RESISTANCE FOR FITNESS AND WELLNESS MOVEMENT” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.2) claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,823 filed on May 17, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VERTICAL MOVEMENT VIBRATING EXERCISE AND WELLNESS PLATFORM” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.3), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VERTICAL MOVEMENT VIBRATING EXERCISE AND WELLNESS PLATFORM” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.3) claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,815 filed on Mary 17, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE-RESISTANCE FUNCTIONAL FITNESS BAG” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.4), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE-RESISTANCE FUNCTIONAL FITNESS BAG” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.4) claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,822 filed on May 17, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE PULLEY FOR BODY-WEIGHT ROTATION EXERCISE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.5), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE PULLEY FOR BODY-WEIGHT ROTATION EXERCISE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.5) claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/395,845 filed on May 17, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The benefits of exercise are numerous and well documented. For example, exercise can reduce the instance and severity of many diseases. In addition, exercise can make a person feel better about themselves and provide the user with increased self-confidence and feelings of self-worth. However, many would be exercisers are intimidated by complex fitness machines and uncomfortable and unnatural motions associated with exercising. In addition, they may be reluctant to use heavy weights which can cause injury to the user.

Fitness machines have been made in the past that eliminate the heavy weights by using resistance within materials, such as elastic materials. These can allow the user to vary resistance. However, this creates the side effect of creating “reactive-force”. I.e., as the user performs the exercise movement, the resistance being used causes a reaction force into the user's body. The greater the resistance, the greater the reactive force.

Reactive force can cause damage to the user's body if the resistance is too strong for a user and the exercise movement becomes uncontrolled. Additionally, reactive force can also accumulate a “break-down” effect in the ligaments, tendons or other soft tissues in the exercising user, and their associated muscle groups. Further, reactive force is a dissipated energy, and means a less than optimal result to the exerciser, meaning a poor return on time and effort invested in the exercise.

Additionally, many exercise systems allow only a single resistance setting. I.e., the system allows for a single exercise at a single resistance. This does not allow the exercise system to be used by individuals of different fitness levels. In particular, some individuals will be too new to exercising to use the exercise system while other individuals will be too advanced. Only the small group in the middle will be able to use the system.

In addition, elastic materials can rebound if the material fails. I.e., as the elastic material is stretched, the force is stored in the material. When the material fails the force in the material can cause sudden and unpredictable movement, which has potential to injure the user or damage the equipment. This is an inherent danger of the materials and the ability to reduce or eliminate this danger is very limited.

Further, many exercise systems use unnatural movements. I.e., they involve movements that the user does not perform when not doing that particular exercise. These unnatural movements can cause injury to the user. Often, the user will not even be aware of the injury until it becomes a major injury because they don't perform that movement unless exercising.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an exercise system which uses resistance that is not produced by elastic materials. Additionally, there is a need in the art for the exercise system to allow the user to select from variable resistance. Further, there is a need in the art for the system to prevent reactive forces from entering the user's body. Moreover there is a need for the exercise system to allow the user to exercise using natural movements.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

One example embodiment includes a system for allowing a user to exercise. The system includes a first plate, where the first plate is configured to rotate about a center point. The system also includes a second plate. The second plate is attached to the first plate and is configured to rotate about the attachment point to the first plate.

Another example embodiment includes a system for allowing a user to exercise. The system includes a foundation and a main plate. The main plate is attached to the foundation and configured to rotate relative to the foundation. The system also includes a first secondary plate, where the first secondary plate is rotatably attached to the main plate, and a second secondary plate, where the second secondary plate is rotatably attached to the main plate. The system further includes a resistance mechanism, where the resistance mechanism is configured to increase the resistance to rotation of the main plate relative to the foundation. The system additionally includes a stand, where the stand is attached to the foundation. The system also includes a handle, where the handle is attached to the stand and configured to provide leverage to a user while using the exercise system.

Another example embodiment includes a system for allowing a user to exercise. The system includes a foundation and a main plate. The main plate includes a runner house, where the runner house is attached to the foundation, and a runner. The runner includes a wheel and an axle. The axle is attached to the runner house and the wheel is configured to rotate about the axle. The main plate also includes a runner indent. The runner indent is located on the runner house, configured to receive the axle of the runner and configured to provide sufficient space for the wheel to rotate. The main plate further includes a top plate. The top plate is approximately circular is rotatably attached to the runner house and at least a portion of the top plate rests on the wheel of the runner. The system also includes a first secondary plate, where the first secondary plate is approximately circular and rotatably attached to the top plate, and a second secondary plate, where the second secondary plate is approximately circular and rotatably attached to the top plate. The system further includes a resistance mechanism, where the resistance mechanism is configured to increase the resistance to rotation of the top plate relative to the foundation. The resistance mechanism includes a resistance conduit, where the resistance conduit is attached to the foundation. The resistance mechanism also includes a resistance spring, where the resistance spring is configured to press the top plate against the resistance conduit. The resistance mechanism further includes a resistance knob, where the resistance knob is configured to adjust the force with which the spring is pressing the top plate against the resistance conduit. The system additionally includes a stand, where the stand is attached to the foundation. The system also includes a handle, where the handle is attached to the stand and configured to provide leverage to a user while using the exercise system.

These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To further clarify various aspects of some example embodiments of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of an exercise system;

FIG. 1B illustrates a bottom view of the exercise system;

FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an example of a main plate;

FIG. 3 illustrates side perspective view of an example of a main plate;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a resistance mechanism; and

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a user using the exercise system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to the figures wherein like structures will be provided with like reference designations. It is understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of some embodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the present invention, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an example of an exercise system 100. FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of the exercise system 100; and FIG. 1B illustrates a bottom view of the exercise system 100. In at least one implementation, the exercise system 100 can be used to increase the physical fitness of a user. In particular, the exercise system 100 can allow the user to perform a variety of movements with varying resistance. The resistance can be provided through friction rather than elasticity which reduces or eliminates the reactive force transmitted to the user's body. I.e., the exercise system 100 can increase his/her physical fitness with a reduced chance of injury.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show that the exercise system 100 can include a foundation 102. In at least one implementation, the foundation 102 can be configured to support the exercise system 100. In particular, the foundation 102 can rest or be attached to a surface. The foundation 102 can then support the exercise system 100 relative to the surface. Additionally or alternatively, the foundation 102 can provide a stable resting place for the exercise system 100. I.e., the foundation 102 can prevent the exercise system 100 from tipping or falling over while in use.

FIGS. 1A and 1B also show that the exercise system 100 can include a main plate 104. In at least one implementation, the main plate 104 is configured to rotate relative to the foundation 102. In particular, the foundation 102 can form a plane and the main plate 104 can be in a plane approximately parallel to the foundation 102. The main plate 104 can rotate within the plane formed by the main plate 104. As used in the specification and the claims, the term approximately shall mean that the value is within 10% of the stated value, unless otherwise specified.

In at least one implementation, the main plate 104 can be attached to the foundation 102. The connection between the main plate 104 and the foundation 102 can allow for resistance to the rotation of the main plate 104. The amount of resistance can be adjusted by the user in order to increase or decrease the difficulty of the user's workout, as described below. The main plate 104 can be round to help ensure smooth rotation or can be other shapes, such as hexagonal, as desired by the user.

FIGS. 1A and 1B further show that the exercise system 100 can include a first secondary plate 106a and a second secondary plate 106b (collectively “secondary plates 106”). In at least one implementation, the secondary plates 106 are attached to the main plate 104. The secondary plates 106 are able to rotate about the attachment point of the secondary plate to the main plate 104. I.e., even as the main plate 104 rotates relative the foundation 102, the secondary plates can rotate relative to the main plate 104, as described below.

In at least one implementation, the attachment between the secondary plates 106 and the main plate 104 can allow for resistance to the rotation of the secondary plates 106 or the attachment can be designed to be relatively resistance free. The amount of resistance can be adjusted in a manner similar to the adjustment in the resistance of the rotation of the main plate 104 relative to the foundation 102. The secondary plates 106 can be round to help ensure smooth rotation or can be other shapes, such as hexagonal, as desired by the user.

FIGS. 1A and 1B additionally show that the exercise system 100 can include a stand 108. In at least one implementation, the stand 108 can provide a user with leverage during an exercise routine. Additionally or alternatively, the stand 108 can be used to support the user. The stand 108 can be attached to the foundation 102. Additionally or alternatively, the stand 108 and the foundation 102 can be a single piece of material, without restriction unless otherwise specified in the claims.

FIGS. 1A and 1B also show that the exercise system 100 can include a handle 110. In at least one implementation, the handle 110 can provide leverage to a user during an exercise routine. For example, the user can grip the handle 110 while twisting his/her core and/or lower body. This can provide a stable location for the user's hands, providing leverage for moving other body parts. Additionally or alternatively, the handle 110 can include grips, straps or other supplementary devices to help the user maintain his/her grip.

FIGS. 1A and 1B further show that the handle 110 can include a first grip 112a and a second grip 112b (collectively “grips 112”). In at least one implementation, the grips 112 can prevent the user's hands from slipping off the handle 110. For example, the grips 112 can include a non-slip material, such as rubber or plastic, or features, such as finger grooves, that assist the user in retaining his/her hold on the handle 110.

In at least one implementation, the exercise system 100 can be configured to electronically communicate with an external device. For example, the exercise system 100 can be connected to a computer, a smart phone, a gaming console or any other electronic device. The electronic device can monitor the user's movements and/or the effectiveness of the user's exercise routine. For example, the electronic device can measure the user's heart rate or provide feedback for the user's exercise routine. E.g., the electronic device can monitor the motion of the various parts of the exercise system 100 and inform the user regarding motion that is overextended or underextended or regarding motion that includes starts and stops or interruptions to the user's exercise routine. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic device can provide information over numerous exercise sessions or routines. For example, the electronic device can show the user's progress as the user increases in strength and health.

The exercise system 100 can connect to the external device using any communications means. For example, the exercise system 100 can be physically connected or can be wirelessly connected to the external device. Additionally or alternatively, the exercise system 100 can connect to the external device using a network. The network exemplarily includes the Internet, including a global internetwork formed by logical and physical connections between multiple wide area networks and/or local area networks and can optionally include the World Wide Web (“Web”), including a system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the Internet. Alternately or additionally, the network includes one or more cellular RF networks and/or one or more wired and/or wireless networks such as, but not limited to, 802.xx networks, Bluetooth access points, wireless access points, IP-based networks, or the like. For example, the network can include cloud based networking and computing. The network can also include servers that enable one type of network to interface with another type of network.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an example of a main plate 104. In at least one implementation, the main plate 104 can rotate during an exercise routine. In particular, the user can user his/her core muscles to apply a force on the main plate 104. The main plate 104 can rotate as result of the applied force. Additionally or alternatively, the resistance to rotation of the main plate 104 can be adjusted by the user, as described below.

FIG. 2 shows that the main plate 104 can include a primary rotator house 202. In at least one implementation, the primary rotator house 202 can allow at least a portion of the main plate 104 to rotate. In particular, as the main plate 104 is rotated about the primary rotator house 202, the user is forced to user his/her core muscles to control the rotation. This can help increase the user's core muscle strength.

In at least one implementation, the main plate 104 can include an indent or other feature for receiving the primary rotator house 202. In particular, the top of the primary rotator house 202 can be lower than the top surface of the main plate 104. An indent can allow for the attachment between the main plate 104 and the external structure to reside completely or partially below the top surface of the main plate 104, which prevents the attachment mechanism from interfering with the user's exercise routine.

FIG. 2 also shows that the primary rotator house 202 can include a hole 204. In at least one implementation, the hole 204 can allow for an attachment between the main plate 104 and an external structure, such as the foundation 102 of FIG. 1. A portion of the attachment can be inserted through the hole 204 while another portion rests on the primary rotator house 202. The can apply pressure to the primary rotator house 202, securing the main plate 104 to the external structure. The attachment can provide resistance to rotation of the main plate 104, as described below.

FIG. 2 further shows that the main plate 104 can include a first secondary rotator house 206a and a second secondary rotator house 206b (collectively “secondary rotator houses 206”). In at least one implementation, the secondary rotator houses 206 can allow for a secondary plate, such as the secondary plates 106 of FIG. 1, to be attached to the main plate 104. Additionally or alternatively, the secondary rotator houses 206 can allow the attached secondary plate to rotate about the secondary rotator house 206.

FIG. 2 additionally shows that the first secondary rotator house 206a and the second secondary rotator house 206b can be approximately equidistant from the center of the main plate 104. I.e., the rotator houses 206 can be located on the dashed circle 208. The rotation of the main plate 104 can allow the secondary plates to rotate about any point on the dashed circle 208, as desired by the user.

FIG. 3 illustrates side perspective view of an example of a main plate 104. In at least one implementation, the main plate 104 can support the weight of a user. In particular, the weight of the user can be distributed in any configuration on the main plate 104. Therefore, the main plate 104 must be of sufficient strength to support the weight of the user at any point, even along the circumference of the main plate 104.

FIG. 3 shows that the main plate 104 includes a runner house 302. In at least one implementation, the runner house 302 is attached to the foundation 102. I.e., the runner house 302 does not rotate relative to the foundation 102 but is instead fixed in place relative to the foundation 102. The runner house 302 can be made of metal, polymers, plastic or any other suitable material.

FIG. 3 also shows that the main plate 104 includes one or more runners 304. In at least one implementation, the runner 304 is attached to the runner house 302. In particular, the runner 304 can include a wheel and an axle. The axle is attached to the runner house 302 such that the wheel can rotate about the axle. I.e., the axle can rotate relative to the runner house 302. Additionally or alternatively, the wheel can rotate relative to the axle.

FIG. 3 further shows that the main plate 104 includes a runner indent 306. In at least one implementation, the runner indent 306 is configured to receive the axle of the runner 304. The runner indent 306 can attach to the axle of the runner 304 in a manner that allows the wheel of the runner to rotate freely. Additionally or alternatively, the runner indent 306 can provide sufficient space for the wheel to rotate about the axle as needed.

FIG. 3 additionally shows that the main plate 304 can include a top plate 308. In at least one implementation, the top plate 308 rests on the runner 304. The top plate 308 can then move freely over the top of the runner 304. In particular, the runner 304 can support the circumference of the top plate 308 and allow the top plate 308 to move relative to the runner house 302. One of skill in the art will appreciate that any mechanism which supports the circumference of the top plate 308 and allows the top plate 308 to move relative to the runner house 302 is contemplated herein. For example, the main plate 104 can include ball bearings or other support devices.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a resistance mechanism 400. In at least one implementation, the resistance mechanism 400 can be used to vary the resistance of the rotation of the main plate 104 of the exercise system. In particular, the resistance mechanism 400 can allow the user to set the resistance at any desired setting. For example, the user can increase the resistance for a more difficult workout or can decrease the resistance for an easier workout.

FIG. 4 shows that the resistance mechanism 400 can include a resistance conduit 402. In at least one implementation, the resistance conduit 402 can provide friction which prevents the rotation of the main plate 104. Friction is the force resisting the relative motion of material elements sliding against each other. Friction is proportional to the normal force of the materials against one another. I.e., the higher the force of the main plate 104 against the resistance conduit 402 the higher the friction and the greater the resistance of the rotation of the main plate 104.

FIG. 4 also shows that the resistance mechanism 400 can include a resistance spring 404. In at least one implementation, the resistance spring 404 can press the main plate 104 against the resistance conduit 402. As the spring presses the main plate 104 against the resistance conduit 402 with more force the resistance of rotation of the main plate 104 is increased. In contrast, as the resistance spring 404 presses the main plate 104 against the resistance conduit 402 with less force the resistance of rotation of the main plate 104 is decreased.

FIG. 4 further shows that the resistance mechanism 400 can include a resistance knob 406. In at least one implementation, the resistance knob 406 allows the user to adjust the resistance created by the resistance mechanism 400. In particular, the resistance knob 406 can be turned to change the force of the resistance spring 404 on the main plate 104. The resistance knob 406 can include one or more markings to allow the user to determine the resistance. For example, the resistance knob 406 can include numbers or other markers which can allow the user to easily identify the amount of resistance.

In at least one implementation, the resistance knob 406 can move laterally with respect to the main axis of the main plate 104. For example, the resistance knob 406 can include threading or other elements which translate rotational movement into lateral movement. The resistance knob 406 can be turned a first direction to increase resistance and turned the opposite direction to reduce resistance. Additionally or alternatively, the resistance knob 406 can include a maximum point with rotation from that point in either direction reducing the resistance, and a minimum point with rotation from that point in either direction increasing the resistance.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a user 502 using the exercise system 100. In at least one implementation, the user 502 can use the exercise system 100 to tone or strengthen his/her muscles. In particular, the exercise system 100 recreates natural movements of the human body, allowing the user 502 to exercise with little or no detrimental impact to the body of the user 502. I.e., the exercise system allows the user 502 to exercise using natural movements and low impact resistance.

FIG. 5 shows that the user 502 can stand on the exercise system 100. In at least one implementation, the user 502 is must balance himself/herself on the secondary plates 106. However, the secondary plates 106 and the main plate 104 are capable of rotating. Therefore, the user must user his/her muscles to maintain the proper motion and/or his/her balance. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the user 502 can place any body part on one or both of the secondary plates 106. For example, the user 502 can place his/her hands, feet or any other body part on one or both of the secondary plates 106.

In at least one implementation, the user 502 can use a supplemental exercise device, such as the exercise system using a variable resistance fitness chamber. An example of a variable resistance fitness chamber is disclosed in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE FITNESS CHAMBER FOR ROTATIONAL TORQUE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.1), previously referenced. In particular, the user 502 can balance himself/herself on the secondary plates 106 or the main plate 104 while using the exercise system using a variable resistance fitness chamber. However, the movement of the exercise system using a variable resistance fitness chamber can make it more difficult to direct the rotation of the secondary plates 106 and/or the main plate 104, making the exercise routine more difficult and, consequently, more beneficial to the user.

Additionally or alternatively, the user 502 can use a supplemental exercise device, such as a vertical movement vibrating exercise and wellness platform. An example of a vertical movement vibrating exercise and wellness platform is disclosed in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VERTICAL MOVEMENT VIBRATING EXERCISE AND WELLNESS PLATFORM” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.3) previously referenced. In particular, the user 502 can balance himself/herself on the secondary plates 106 or the main plate 104. However, the platform is moving up and down. Therefore, the user 502 must balance himself/herself while directing the rotation of the secondary plates 106 and/or the main plate 104, making the exercise routine more difficult and, consequently, more beneficial to the user.

Additionally or alternatively, the user 502 can use a supplemental exercise device, such as a variable-resistance functional fitness bag. An example of a variable-resistance functional fitness bag is disclosed in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE-RESISTANCE FUNCTIONAL FITNESS BAG” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.4), previously referenced. In particular, the user 502 can balance himself/herself on the secondary plates 106 or the main plate 104 while using the exercise bag. However, the movement of the exercise bag can make it more difficult to direct the rotation of the secondary plates 106 and/or the main plate 104, making the exercise routine more difficult and, consequently, more beneficial to the user.

Additionally or alternatively, the user 502 can use other supplemental exercise devices, such as weights or other exercise systems, while using the exercise system 100. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the exercise system 100 can be used by the user 502 to perform any number of exercises. The examples provided herein are intended to be illustrative only and are not limiting unless otherwise specified in the claims.

FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative example of a user 502 using the exercise system 100 in combination with a variable resistance pulley 600. An example of a variable resistance pulley is disclosed in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, filed on May 17, 2011, and entitled, “VARIABLE RESISTANCE PULLEY FOR BODY-WEIGHT ROTATION EXERCISE” (Attorney Docket No. 10314.5), previously referenced.

FIG. 6 shows that the user 502 can place his/her feet in the slings 602. In at least one implementation, the user 502 can place one foot the first sling 602a and the other foot in the second sling 602b (collectively “slings 602”). As the user 502 attempts to move the slings 602, the resistance provided by the pulley 606 to movement of the cable 604 can provide resistance to the movement of the slings 602. In particular, the user 502 can balance himself/herself on the secondary plates 106 or the main plate 104. However, the secondary plates 106 and/or the main plate 104 are rotating. Therefore, the user 502 must control the movement of the slings 602 while directing the rotation of the secondary plates 106 and/or the main plate 104, making the exercise routine more difficult and, consequently, more beneficial to the user.

FIG. 6 also shows that as the user 502 moves his/her first foot, the forces is imparted to the user's second foot and vice versa. I.e., the force applied by the foot of the user 502 to the first sling 602a is transmitted by the cable 604 to the pulley 606 which redirects the force to the second sling 602b and the second foot of the user 502, and vice versa. For example, if the user 502 pulls on the first sling 602a then the second sling 602b moves away from the user 502. Therefore, an additional component of resistance is imparted by the user 502. Additionally or alternatively, additional resistance can be imparted by an external device, such as the spring 608 or an additional exercise system or weight machine, or resistance to movement of the pulley 606, as described above.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A system for allowing a user to exercise, the system comprising:

a first plate, wherein the first plate is configured to rotate about a center point;

a second plate, wherein the second plate is: attached to the first plate; and configured to rotate about the attachment point to the first plate.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first plate is approximately circular.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the second plate is approximately circular.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the attachment point between the second plate and the first plate is not located at the center point of the first plate.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the diameter of the first plate is larger than the diameter of the second plate.

6. The system of claim 3 further comprising a third plate, wherein the third plate:

is attached to the first plate;

is configured to rotate about the attachment point to the first plate; and

is approximately circular.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the diameter of the third plate is approximately equal to the diameter of the second plate.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the distance from the center of the first plate to the attachment point of the second plate to the first plate is approximately equal to the distance from the center of the first plate to the attachment point of the third plate to the first plate

9. The system of claim 3, wherein the distance to from the center of the first plate to the attachment point of the second plate to the first plate is greater than or equal to the diameter of the second plate.

10. A system for allowing a user to exercise, the system comprising:

a foundation;

a main plate, wherein the main plate is: attached to the foundation; and configured to rotate relative to the foundation;

a first secondary plate, wherein the first secondary plate is rotatably attached to the main plate;

a second secondary plate, wherein the second secondary plate is rotatably attached to the main plate;

a resistance mechanism, wherein the resistance mechanism is configured to increase the resistance to rotation of the main plate relative to the foundation;

a stand, wherein the stand is attached to the foundation; and

a handle, wherein the handle is: attached to the stand; and configured to provide leverage to a user while using the exercise system.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the main plate is approximately circular.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the first secondary plate is approximately circular.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the second secondary plate is approximately circular.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the diameter of the second secondary plate is approximately equal to the diameter of the third secondary plate.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the diameter of the main plate is greater than the diameter of the first secondary plate.

16. A system for allowing a user to exercise, the system comprising:

a foundation;

a main plate, wherein the main plate includes: a runner house, wherein the runner house is attached to the foundation; a runner, wherein the runner includes: a wheel; and an axle, wherein: the axle is attached to the runner house; and the wheel is configured to rotate about the axle; a runner indent, wherein the runner indent is; located on the runner house; configured to receive the axle of the runner; and configured to provide sufficient space for the wheel to rotate; a top plate, wherein: the top plate is approximately circular; and the top plate is rotatably attached to the runner house; and at least a portion of the top plate rests on the wheel of the runner;

a first secondary plate, wherein the first secondary plate is: approximately circular; and rotatably attached to the top plate;

a second secondary plate, wherein the second secondary plate is: approximately circular; and rotatably attached to the top plate;

a resistance mechanism, wherein the resistance mechanism: is configured to increase the resistance to rotation of the top plate relative to the foundation; and includes: a resistance conduit, wherein the resistance conduit is attached to the foundation; a resistance spring, wherein the resistance spring is configured to press the top plate against the resistance conduit; and a resistance knob, wherein the resistance knob is configured to adjust the force with which the spring is pressing the top plate against the resistance conduit;

a stand, wherein the stand is attached to the foundation; and

a handle, wherein the handle is: attached to the stand; and configured to provide leverage to a user while using the exercise system.

17. The resistance chamber of claim 16, wherein the adjustment knob includes one or more markings to indicate to a user the resistance setting.

18. The resistance chamber of claim 17, wherein the one or more markings include numbers.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein:

rotation of the adjustment knob in a first direction increases the resistance to rotation of the main plate relative to the foundation;

rotation of the adjustment knob in a second direction decreases the resistance to rotation of the main plate relative to the foundation; and

the second direction is opposite the first direction.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the exercise system is configured to electronically connect to an external device.