Training Apparatus

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A training apparatus provides a modular frame for performing group exercises. The frame includes a first, second, third vertical posts configured upright on a horizontal supporting surface and a crossbeam extending from a top of the second vertical post and a top of the third vertical post. The first vertical post and the second vertical post define a first vertical plane. The first vertical post and the third vertical post define a second vertical plane. The first vertical plane and the second vertical plane are arranged at a substantially right angle to each other. The crossbeam is adapted to be assembled with at least one first training attachment which is adjustable in a horizontal position. The second vertical post and the third vertical post are both adapted to be assembled with a second training attachment which is adjustable in a vertical position.

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Description
BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a multi-function training apparatus which provides for individual training or group training.

2. Description of the Related Art

Group exercise is growing increasingly popular these days for its good experience and training effect. Group exercise includes aerobics, yoga, Pilates, kick-boxing, kettle bells, rubber bands, suspension training, etc. In group exercise, an instructor leads a class where everyone is doing the same exercise simultaneously or performing circuit training from station to station. Since group training is generally instructed and supervised by an expert, it helps participants to avoid physical damage. Comparing to exercise alone, group exercise not only offers physical benefits, but also the social factor in interaction with other participants. In group exercise, people may get the support and motivation from the instructor and the other participants. Also, group exercise involves exercising in a fun and social environment. Every participant would like to stick to individual exercise routine and achieve individual goals if the participant works out in the group environment.

One of the top current fitness trends is the increased use of functional training in fitness programs. Functional training means training our bodies to develop strength, flexibility, power and coordination. Suspension training such as TRX suspension training is a very common functional training. The suspension training refers to an approach to strength training that uses a system of ropes and webbing called a suspension trainer to allow the user to work against his own body weight. The field of suspension training is a form of resistance training that includes bodyweight exercises in which a variety of multi-planar, compound exercise movements can be performed. The suspension training bodyweight exercise helps to develop physical strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. A conventional indoor group functional trainer provides an all-in-one training frame with attachment points for bands, bags, straps as well as exercises that involve med balls, boxing and suspension training. The conventional group functional trainer adapts to classes, small-group training, circuit training and individual use. However, the group functional trainer normally takes up a lot of space. It is inconvenient to set up in a limited inner space.

The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the disadvantages of the conventional training apparatus. Further benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after a careful reading of the detailed description with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY

The object of the present invention provides a group functional training apparatus which gives trainers ultimate flexibility to design their own protocols and the ability to build variety into the programming they offer individuals, small groups and classes.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the training apparatus has a frame which comprises a first vertical post, a second vertical post, a third vertical post configured upright on a horizontal supporting surface, and a crossbeam extending from a top of the second vertical post to a top of the third vertical post. The second vertical post and the first vertical post are spaced a first distance apart. The first vertical post and the second vertical post define a first vertical plane. The first vertical post and the second vertical post are connected by at least one first connecting beam. The third vertical post and the first vertical post are spaced a second distance apart. The first vertical post and the third vertical post define a second vertical plane. The first vertical post and the third vertical post are connected by at least one second connecting beam. Specifically, the second vertical plane and the first vertical plane are arranged at a substantially right angle to each other. Furthermore, the crossbeam is adapted to be assembled with at least one first training attachment which is adjustable in a horizontal position, and at least one of the second vertical post and the third vertical post is adapted to be assembled with a second training attachment which is adjustable in a vertical position. Moreover, the training apparatus is adapted to be set up against a wall of an interior space such that the first vertical plane is parallel to and proximate to the wall.

Preferably, the frame of the training apparatus defines a substantially cubical space, the cubical space having a length, width and height respectively corresponding to the first distance, the second distance and a height of the crossbeam. Specifically, a bottom face of the cubical space and a side face of the cubical space opposite to the first vertical plane remain empty.

Preferably, the frame further comprises a horizontal guiding rail mounted to the crossbeam. The horizontal guiding rail has a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart. The at least one first training attachment is slidable with respect to the horizontal guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

Preferably, at least one of the second vertical post and the third vertical post is equipped with a vertical guiding rail. The vertical guiding rail has a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart along it. The second training attachment is slidable with respect to the vertical guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

Preferably, the frame further comprises an accessory training plate attached to the at least one first connecting beam and parallel to the first vertical plane, a writing board attached to the at least one first connecting beam and parallel to the first vertical plane, and a pull-up bar mounted to the crossbeam for allowing a user to perform a chin-up exercise.

Preferably, the at least one second connecting beam comprises an upper second connecting beam connected in between a top of the first vertical post and a top of the third vertical post, and a lower second connecting beam connected in between a bottom of the first vertical post and a bottom of the third vertical post. A plurality of pairs of retaining members are disposed at the first vertical post and the third vertical post between the upper and lower second connecting beams at different heights for allowing a horizontal bar to be secured on a selected pair of the retaining members.

Preferably, the first distance is 1.5 to 2 times the second distance. The first distance is in a range of 200 cm to 300 cm, the second distance is in a range of 100 to 200 cm, and a height of the crossbeam is in a range of 200 cm to 250 cm.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the training apparatus further comprises a fourth vertical post and a fifth vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface. A second crossbeam extends from a top of the fourth vertical post to a top of the fifth vertical post. The fourth vertical post and the second vertical post are spaced apart by the first distance and connected by at least one third connecting beam. The second vertical post and the fourth vertical post define a third vertical plane. The fifth vertical post and the second vertical post are spaced apart by the second distance and connected by at least one fourth connecting beam. The second vertical post and the fifth vertical post define a fourth vertical plane. The fourth vertical plane and the third vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other. Additionally, the first vertical plane and the second vertical plane define a first cubical space. The third vertical plane and the fourth vertical plane define a second cubical space. The first cubical space and the second cubical space are arranged side by side. Specifically, a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the first cubical space and a side face opposite to the third vertical plane of the second cubical space remain empty.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the training apparatus further comprises a fourth vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface and a second crossbeam extending from a top of the fourth vertical post to a top of the first vertical post. The fourth vertical post and the second vertical post are spaced apart by the second distance and connected by at least one third connecting beam. The second vertical post and the fourth vertical post define a third vertical plane. The third vertical plane and the first vertical plane are arranged at a substantially right angle to each other. Additionally, the first vertical plane and the second vertical plane define a first cubical space. The first vertical plane and the third vertical plane define a second cubical space. The first cubical space and the second cubical space are arranged back to back. Specifically, a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the first cubical space and a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the second cubical space remain empty.

There are several advantages of the training apparatus of the present invention. The training apparatus give trainers more flexibility for individual training or group training. And more specifically, the training apparatus with a triangular configuration which takes up less space so it is convenient to set up in an inner space.

Further benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after a careful reading of the detailed description with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a training apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the training apparatus shown in FIG. 1, taken from another angle;

FIG. 2a is a partial enlarged view of FIG. 2;

FIG. 2b is another partial enlarged view of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the training apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a training apparatus in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the training apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a training apparatus in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the training apparatus shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8a simply illustrates the arrangement of the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8b simply illustrates the arrangement of the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8c simply illustrates the arrangement of the third embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGS. 9a through 9c illustrate arrangements of other training system.

 DETAIL DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. It will be apparent, however, that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are schematically depicted in order to simplify the drawings.

Referring to FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, a training apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention has multiple functions for users to perform exercise or group training. The training apparatus 100 comprises a frame 10 adapted to rest on a horizontal supporting surface such as the ground for providing other mechanisms to couple thereto. The frame 10 comprises a first vertical post 11, a second vertical post 12, a third vertical post 13 and a crossbeam 14 bridged over the second vertical post 12 and the third vertical post 13. The first vertical post 11, the second vertical post 12 and the third vertical post 13 are stood upright on the horizontal supporting surface. The crossbeam 14 extends from a top of the second vertical post 12 and a top of the third vertical post 13. Furthermore, in the first embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 1, the first vertical post 11 and the second vertical post 12 are connected by two first connecting beams 15. The first vertical post 11 and the third vertical post 13 are connected by upper and lower second connecting beams 16.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the second vertical post 12 and the first vertical post 11 are spaced a first distance d1 apart and together defining a first vertical plane P1. The third vertical post 13 and the first vertical post 11 are spaced a second distance d2 apart and together defining a second vertical plane P2. Specifically, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 are arranged at a substantially right angle such that the first and second vertical planes P1, P2 are perpendicular to each other as shown in FIG. 2. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 3, the corresponding first connecting beam 15, the corresponding second connecting beam 16 and the crossbeam 14 are formed as a right triangle. The corresponding first and second connecting beams 15, 16 are defined as legs adjacent to the right angle and the crossbeam 14 is defined as a hypotenuse opposite to the right angle. Therefore, a length of the crossbeam 14 is generally longer than a length of each first connecting beam 15 and a length of each connecting beam 16.

As shown in FIG. 1 and referring to FIG. 3, the frame 10 of the training apparatus 100 defines a substantially cubical space S, and the length, width, height of the cubical space S respectively correspond to the first distance d1, the second distance d2 and the vertical height of the crossbeam 14. The crossbeam 14 is regarded a diagonal that joints two opposite corners at the top of the cubical space S. The cubical space S is defined by six faces. The first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 are two adjacent side faces of the cubical space S. Specifically, a bottom face of the cubical space S and a side face of the cubical space S opposite to the first vertical plane P1 remain empty, namely, there is no interference at the bottom face and the side face opposite to the first vertical plane P1. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the length L and the width W of the frame 10 equal to d1 and d2 respectively, as shown in FIG. 3. The training apparatus 100 provides an open zone for allowing users to perform functional training.

Referring to FIG. 1 through FIG. 2, an upper horizontal guiding mechanism 20 is mounted to the crossbeam 14 for allowing a user to quickly and easily slide hanging items (such as boxing bags) into or out of a specific training area. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the horizontal guiding mechanism 20 has two first training attachments 21 and a horizontal guiding rail 22. The horizontal guiding rail 22 is generally fixed under the crossbeam 14 and extends from one end to the other end of the crossbeam 14. The two first training attachments 21 are respectively coupled to the horizontal guiding rail 22 and slidable with respect to the horizontal sliding rail 22. Therefore, the user can adjust each first training attachment 21 to move lengthwise along the crossbeam 14. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2a, each of the two first training attachments 21 defines a handle 23 for accommodating a wide range of accessories and training modalities including ropes, resistance bands, boxing bags, TRX® straps and more. Additionally, each of the two first training attachments 21 has a movable bolt 24. The horizontal guiding rail 22 defines a plurality of locating holes 25 spaced a distance apart. The locating holes 25 are regarded as index locations arranged along the horizontal guiding rail 22 for allowing each of the first training attachments 21 to be positioned. When the user wants to change the horizontal position of one of the first training attachment 21, he/she can grip the handle 23 of the corresponding first training attachment 21 and pull out the movable bolt 24 by his fingers, and then it is able to adjust the corresponding first training attachment 21 to a specific position. Finally, the user releases the movable bolt 24 and makes the movable bolt 24 insert into the corresponding locating hole 25 to fix the corresponding first training attachment 21 at the specific position. Under this arrangement, each of the first training attachments 21 could be adjusted and positioned in a selected one of the locating holes 25 so as to quickly and easily move hanging items into storage positions without actually disconnecting them from the training apparatus 100 to get them out of the way of the training area or move the hanging items back into the training area for training.

Referring to FIG. 1 through FIG. 2, a vertical guiding mechanism 30 is adapted to be mounted to either or both of the second vertical post 12 and the third vertical post 13 for allowing a user to quickly and easily adjust the vertical connection point of ropes, resistance bands, tethers and other straps. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the second vertical post 12 and the third vertical post 13 are both configured with the vertical guiding mechanism 30. The vertical guiding mechanism 30 has a second training attachment 31 and a vertical guiding rail 32. The vertical guiding rail 32 is generally fixed on a front side of the second vertical post 12 or the third vertical post 13 and extends vertically from bottom to top. The second training attachment 31 is coupled to the vertical guiding rail 32 and slidable with respect to the vertical guiding rail 32. Therefore, the user can adjust the second training attachment 31 to move lengthwise along the second vertical post 12 or the third vertical post 13. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2b, the second training attachment 31 defines a handle 33 for accommodating a wide range of accessories and training modalities including ropes, resistance bands, TRX® straps and more. Moreover, the second training attachment 31 has a movable bolt 34. The vertical guiding rail 32 defines a plurality of locating holes 35 spaced a distance apart. The locating holes 35 are regarded as index locations arranged along the vertical guiding rail 32 for allowing the second training attachment 31 to be positioned. When the user wants to change the vertical position of the second training attachment 31, he/she can grip the handle 33 of the second training attachment 31 and pull out the movable bolt 34 by his fingers, and then it is able to adjust the height of the second training attachment 31. Finally, the user releases the movable bolt 34 and makes the movable bolt 34 insert into the corresponding locating hole 35 to fix the second training attachment 31 at the specific height. Under this arrangement, the second training attachment 31 could be adjusted and positioned in a selected one of the locating holes 35 so as to quickly and easily adjust the vertical height of training items such as ropes, resistance bands, tethers and other straps.

As described above, the training apparatus 100 provides a frame structure for allowing multiple training devices to be configured on the frame 10. As shown in FIG. 1, an accessory training plate 40 is mounted to the two first connecting beams 15 and the accessory training plate 40 is parallel to the first vertical plane P1. In general, the accessory training plate 40 is divided into three training zones (low, mid and high) for med ball target, such med ball target can be used with slam balls and a wide variety of med balls to enhance power training programs and offer program variety. A magnetic writing board 50 such as chalkboard is adapted to be mounted to one of the two first connecting beams 15. The magnetic writing board 50 is also parallel to the first vertical plane P1 and generally disposed at an upper portion of the vertical plane P1. The magnetic writing board 50 has a holder 51 attached thereon for storage of chalk, a smart phone or a tablet. The magnetic writing board 50 also allows trainers to post workout information in highly visible area.

As shown in FIG. 1, the first vertical post 11 and the third vertical post 13 are connected by the two second connecting beams 16. The upper second connecting beam 16 is connected in between a top of the first vertical post 11 and a top of the third vertical post 13 and the lower second connecting beam 16 is connected in between a bottom of the first vertical post 11 and a bottom of the third vertical post 13.

Additionally, an adjustable horizontal bar set 60 is configured in between the first vertical post 11 and the third vertical post 13. The adjustable horizontal bar set 60 comprises a horizontal bar 61 with cushioned grip and a plurality of pairs of retaining members 62 disposed at opposite sides of the first vertical post 11 and the third vertical post 13. The pairs of the retaining members 62 are respectively arranged at various heights between the upper and lower second connecting beams 16 for allowing the horizontal bar 61 to be secured on a selected pair of the retaining members 62. Accordingly, the adjustable horizontal bar set 60 allows for low, mid and high anchor points that accommodate flexibility training for a wide range of individuals and ability levels. Furthermore, a pull-up bar 17 could be mounted to the crossbeam 14 for allowing the user to perform a chin-up exercise. Also, the upper second connecting beam 16 is adapted to be assembled with another pull-up bar 17. For additional flexibility, a rotational training device 19 known as landmine attachments could be mounted to a foot base of the third vertical post 13 or the second vertical post 12 as shown in FIG. 1. The rotational training device 19 allows trainers to incorporate more explosive power training into their programming. Specifically, the training apparatus 100 is generally arranged in an interior space, and the first vertical plane P1 is configured to locate against a wall of the interior space. In order to reinforce the stability of the frame 10 of the training apparatus 100, the frame 10 has two or more brackets 18 to fix the frame 10 to the wall for preventing the training apparatus 100 being moved during exercise.

In the first embodiment of the present invention, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 are together defining the substantially cubical space S. And FIG. 3 is a top view for showing the triangular configuration of the training apparatus 100. In general, the first distance d1 is 1.5 to 2 times the second distance d2, namely, the length of each first connecting beam 15 is 1.5 to 2 times longer than that of each second connecting beam 16. Preferably, the first distance d1 is in a range of 200 cm to 300 cm, the second distance d2 is in a range of 100 to 200 cm, and a height of the crossbeam 14 is in a range of 200 cm to 250 cm. With respect to the triangular plan view in FIG. 3, the structure of the frame 10 is only constructed by three vertical posts (the first, second and third vertical posts 11, 12, 13), but other training systems are normally constructed by four vertical posts with rectangular plan view. Comparing to the rectangular configuration, the triangular configuration would take up less space when the two legs of the triangular configuration accord with the length and width of the rectangular configuration, namely, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 are respectively equal to the length and the width of the rectangular configuration. Therefore, unlike other training apparatus, the training apparatus 100 of the present invention would take up less space so as to reduce unnecessary spaces.

It should be noted that the training system of the present invention is modular, allowing multiple users to perform identical exercises in parallel with one another. The training apparatus 100 of the first embodiment is regarded as a single station. It can be set up against a wall for allowing at least one user to perform anaerobic exercises such as med ball training, bodyweight, resistance and flexibility training. In addition, the first training attachments 22 of the training apparatus 100 are allowing for the user to hang boxing bags to perform boxing training. Moreover, two or more stations can be set up against a wall, and each station would reinforce the stability of the adjoining stations. The foregoing are related instructions of the training apparatus 100 of the first embodiment of the present invention. Other preferred embodiments will be described below for illustrating any possible combination structures of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4 through FIG. 5, there is a training apparatus 200 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, showing that two stations are set up side by side. The training apparatus 200 of the second embodiment is regarded as a combination of two training apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in parallel such that the training apparatus 200 could be divided into a primary section (right part of the training apparatus 200 in FIG. 4) and an expansion section (left part of the training apparatus 200 in FIG. 4). The following description is mainly focused on the configuration of the training apparatus 200, and the other training attachments (e.g. accessory training plate, magnetic writing board, adjustable horizontal bar set) will not be repeated. The frame 210 of the training apparatus 200 comprises a first vertical post 211, a second vertical post 212, a third vertical post 213 and a first crossbeam 214 bridged over the second vertical post 212 and the third vertical post 213. The first vertical post 211 and the second vertical post 212 are spaced a first distance d1 apart and connected by two first connecting beams 215. The first vertical post 211 and the third vertical post 213 are spaced a second distance d2 apart and connected by two second connecting beams 216. More specifically, the frame 210 further comprises a fourth vertical post 212′, a fifth vertical post 213′ and a second crossbeam 214′ bridged over the fourth vertical post 212′ and the fifth vertical post 213′. The second crossbeam 214′ extends from a top of the fourth vertical post 212′ and a top of the fifth vertical post 213′. The fourth vertical post 212′ and the second vertical post 212 are spaced apart by the first distance d1 and connected by two third connecting beams 215′. The fifth vertical post 213′ and the second vertical post 212 are spaced apart by the second distance d2 and connected by two fourth connecting beams 216′.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first vertical post 211 and the second vertical post 212 are together defining a first vertical plane P1. The first vertical post 211 and the third vertical post 213 are together defining a second vertical plane P2. The second vertical post 212 and the fourth vertical post 212′ are together defining a third vertical plane P3. The second vertical post 212 and the fifth vertical post 213′ are together defining a fourth vertical plane P4. Specifically, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 are arranged at a substantially right angle such that the first and second vertical planes P1, P2 are perpendicular to each other. The third vertical plane P3 and the fourth vertical plane P4 are arranged at a substantially right angle as well such that the third and fourth vertical planes P3, P4 are perpendicular to each other. Also, the fourth vertical plane P4 is perpendicular to the first vertical plane P1 and the third vertical plane P3, such that the fourth vertical plane P4 is parallel and opposite to the second vertical plane P2. As shown in FIG. 4 and referring to FIG. 5, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 defines a first cubical space S1, the third vertical plane P3 and the fourth vertical plane P4 defines a second cubical space S2. The first cubical space S1 and the second cubical space S2 are arranged side by side. Specifically, a side face opposite to the first vertical plane P1 of the first cubical space S1 and a side face opposite to the third vertical plane P3 of the second cubical space S2 remain empty. Like the first embodiment, the first and second crossbeams 214, 214′ are adapted to be assembled with upper horizontal guiding mechanisms 220. Each upper horizontal guiding mechanism 220 has at least one training attachments slidable with respect to the corresponding crossbeam. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the length L and the width W of the frame 210 equal to d1+d1 and d2 respectively.

Referring to FIG. 6 through FIG. 7, there is a training apparatus 300 in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention, showing two stations are set up back to back. The training apparatus 300 of the third embodiment is also regarded as a combination of two training apparatus 100 of the first embodiment set up back to back such that the training apparatus 300 could be divided into a primary section (front part of the training apparatus 300 in FIG. 6) and an expansion section (rear part of the training apparatus 300 in FIG. 6). The following description is mainly focused on the configuration of the training apparatus 300, and the other training attachments (e.g. accessory training plate, magnetic writing board, adjustable horizontal bar set) will not be repeated. The frame 310 of the training apparatus 300 comprises a first vertical post 311, a second vertical post 312, a third vertical post 313 and a first crossbeam 314 bridged over the second vertical post 312 and the third vertical post 313. The first vertical post 311 and the second vertical post 312 are spaced a first distance d1 apart and connected by two first connecting beams 315. The first vertical post 311 and the third vertical post 313 are spaced a second distance d2 apart and connected by two second connecting beams 316. More specifically, the frame 310 further comprises a fourth vertical post 313′ and a second crossbeam 314′ bridged over the fourth vertical post 313′ and the first vertical post 311. The second crossbeam 314′ extends from a top of the fourth vertical post 313′ and a top of the first vertical post 211 such that the first crossbeam 314 and the second crossbeam 314′ are parallel to each other. The fourth vertical post 313′ and the second vertical post 312 are spaced apart by the second distance d2 and connected by two third connecting beams 316′.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first vertical post 311 and the second vertical post 312 are together defining a first vertical plane P1. The first vertical post 311 and the third vertical post 313 are together defining a second vertical plane P2. The second vertical post 312 and the fourth vertical post 313′ are together defining a third vertical plane P3. Specifically, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 are arranged at a substantially right angle such that the first and second vertical planes P1,

P2 are perpendicular to each other. The first vertical plane P1 and third vertical plane P3 are arranged at a substantially right angle as well such that the first and third vertical planes P1, P3 are perpendicular to each other. Under this arrangement, both the second vertical plane P2 and the third vertical plane P3 are perpendicular to the first vertical plane P1, but the second vertical plane P2 and the third vertical plane P3 are arranged at opposite sides of the first vertical plane P1. As shown in FIG. 6 and referring to FIG. 7, the first vertical plane P1 and the second vertical plane P2 defines a first cubical space S1, the third vertical plane P3 and the first vertical plane P1 defines a second cubical space S2. The first cubical space S1 and the second cubical space S2 are arranged back to back. Specifically, a side face opposite to the first vertical plane P1 of the first cubical space S1 and a side face opposite to the first vertical plane P1 of the second cubical space S1 remain empty. Like the first embodiment, the first and second crossbeams 314, 314′ are adapted to be assembled with upper horizontal guiding mechanisms 320. Each upper horizontal guiding mechanism 320 has at least one training attachments slidable with respect to the corresponding crossbeam. Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the length L and the width W of the frame 310 equal to d1 and d2+d2 respectively.

FIG. 8a, FIG. 8b and FIG. 8c simply illustrate the arrangement of above three embodiments of the present training system, and every triangle is regarded as a training station with three vertical posts. In contrast, FIG. 9a, FIG. 9b and FIG. 9c illustrate the arrangement of other training system, and every rectangle is regards as a training station with four vertical posts. In fact, every triangle is a right triangle which could be regarded as a half of one rectangle. Comparing FIG. 8a with FIG. 9a, the two legs (d1 and d2) of the triangle adjacent to the right angle are equal to the length d1 and the width d2 of the rectangle, such that the rectangle is defined as two right triangles. The triangle allows two or three users (user A, B, C) to exercise in the same training zone side by side. As shown in FIG. 8a, the users A, B, C are oriented in the hypotenuse of the triangle such that the user B could move into the space (as predetermined space S shown in FIG. 3) to minimize interference between user A and B. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 9a, the users A′, B′ and C′ are oriented transversely in the long side of the rectangle. Since the long side of the rectangle is shorter than the hypotenuse of the triangle, the users A′, B′ and C′ are much easier to interfere with each other while training, that is, every adjacent two of the users A′, B′ and C′ is much closer to each other. For multiple stations as shown in FIG. 8b and FIG. 9b, the stations are arranged in parallel. In the present training system as shown in FIG. 8b, the locations of the users A to E are staggered so that multiple users can perform exercises in parallel and not interfere with each other. Unlike other training system as shown in FIG. 9b that all users A′ to E′ are oriented in the same row, the users B and D could move forward into the respective predetermined spaces such that the locations of the users A to E are arranged alternatively so as to minimize interference among each other. For another multiple stations as shown in FIG. 8c and FIG. 9c, the stations are arranged back to back. Comparing FIG. 8c with FIG. 9c, the configuration of FIG. 8c occupies less space than the configuration of FIG. 9c so as to reduce unnecessary spaces.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the structure of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. In view of the foregoing, it is intended that the present invention cover modifications and variations of this invention provided they fall within the scope of the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A frame of a training apparatus, comprising:

a first vertical post configured upright on a horizontal supporting surface;
a second vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the second vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a first distance apart, the first vertical post and the second vertical post defining a first vertical plane;
at least one first connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the second vertical post;
a third vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the third vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a second distance apart, the first vertical post and the third vertical post defining a second vertical plane, the second vertical plane and the first vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other;
at least one second connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the third vertical post; and
a crossbeam extending from a top of the second vertical post to a top of the third vertical post;
wherein, the crossbeam is adapted to be assembled with at least one first training attachment which is adjustable in a horizontal position; and at least one of the second vertical post and the third vertical post is adapted to be assembled with a second training attachment which is adjustable in a vertical position.

2. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame of the training apparatus defines a substantially cubical space, the cubical space having a length, width and height respectively corresponding to the first distance, the second distance and a height of the crossbeam; and wherein a bottom face of the cubical space and a side face of the cubical space opposite to the first vertical plane remain empty.

3. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a horizontal guiding rail mounted to the crossbeam, the horizontal guiding rail having a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart, wherein the at least one first training attachment is slidable with respect to the horizontal guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

4. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the second vertical post and the third vertical post is equipped with a vertical guiding rail, the vertical guiding rail having a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart along it, wherein the second training attachment is slidable with respect to the vertical guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

5. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an accessory training plate attached to the at least one first connecting beam and parallel to the first vertical plane.

6. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a writing board attached to the at least one first connecting beam and parallel to the first vertical plane.

7. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one second connecting beam comprises an upper second connecting beam connected in between a top of the first vertical post and a top of the third vertical post, and a lower second connecting beam connected in between a bottom of the first vertical post and a bottom of the third vertical post; and a plurality of pairs of retaining members are disposed at the first vertical post and the third vertical post between the upper and lower second connecting beams at different heights for allowing a horizontal bar to be secured on a selected pair of the retaining members.

8. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a pull-up bar mounted to the crossbeam for allowing a user to perform a chin-up exercise.

9. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one second connecting beam comprises an upper second connecting beam in between a top of the first vertical post and a top of the third vertical post, the upper second connecting beam is equipped with a pull-up bar for allowing a user to perform a chin-up exercise.

10. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first distance is 1.5 to 2 times the second distance.

11. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first distance is in a range of 200 cm to 300 cm, the second distance is in a range of 100 to 200 cm, and a height of the crossbeam is in a range of 200 cm to 250 cm.

12. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the training apparatus is adapted to be set up against a wall of an interior space such that the first vertical plane is parallel to and proximate to the wall.

13. A frame of a training apparatus, comprising:

a first vertical post configured upright on a horizontal supporting surface;
a second vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the second vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a first distance apart, the first vertical post and the second vertical post defining a first vertical plane;
at least one first connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the second vertical post;
a third vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the third vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a second distance apart, the first vertical post and the third vertical post defining a second vertical plane, the second vertical plane and the first vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other;
at least one second connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the third vertical post;
a first crossbeam extending from a top of the second vertical post to a top of the third vertical post;
a fourth vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the fourth vertical post and the second vertical post spaced apart by the first distance, the second vertical post and the fourth vertical post defining a third vertical plane;
at least one third connecting beam connecting the second vertical post and the fourth vertical post;
a fifth vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the fifth vertical post and the second vertical post spaced apart by the second distance, the second vertical post and the fifth vertical post defining a fourth vertical plane, the fourth vertical plane and the third vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other;
at least one fourth connecting beam connecting the second vertical post and the fifth vertical post; and
a second crossbeam extending from a top of the fourth vertical post to a top of the fifth vertical post;
wherein the third vertical plane is next to the first vertical plane; the second vertical plane is opposite to the fourth vertical plane in parallel; and the first and second crossbeams are adapted to be assembled with training attachments.

14. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first vertical plane and the second vertical plane define a first cubical space, the third vertical plane and the fourth vertical plane define a second cubical space, and the first cubical space and the second cubical space are arranged side by side; and wherein a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the first cubical space and a side face opposite to the third vertical plane of the second cubical space remain empty.

15. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 13, further comprising two horizontal guiding rails respectively mounted to the first and second crossbeams, each of the two horizontal guiding rails having a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart along it, and wherein each training attachment is slidable with respect to the corresponding horizontal guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

16. A frame of a training apparatus, comprising:

a first vertical post configured upright on a horizontal supporting surface;
a second vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the second vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a first distance apart, the first vertical post and the second vertical post defining a first vertical plane;
at least one first connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the second vertical post;
a third vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the third vertical post and the first vertical post spaced a second distance apart, the first vertical post and the third vertical post defining a second vertical plane, the second vertical plane and the first vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other;
at least one second connecting beam connecting the first vertical post and the third vertical post;
a crossbeam extending from a top of the second vertical post to a top of the third vertical post;
a fourth vertical post configured upright on the horizontal supporting surface, the fourth vertical post and the second vertical post spaced apart by the second distance, the second vertical post and the fourth vertical post defining a third vertical plane, the third vertical plane and the first vertical plane arranged at a substantially right angle to each other;
at least one third connecting beam connecting the second vertical post and the fourth post;
a second crossbeam extending from a top of the fourth vertical post to a top of the first vertical post;
wherein the second vertical plane and the third vertical plane are parallel to each other and arranged at opposite sides of the first vertical plane; and the first and second crossbeam are adapted to assembled with training attachments.

17. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein the first vertical plane and the second vertical plane define a first cubical space, the first vertical plane and the third vertical plane define a second cubical space, and the first cubical space and the second cubical space are arranged back to back; and wherein a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the first cubical space and a side face opposite to the first vertical plane of the second cubical space remain empty.

18. The frame of the training apparatus as claimed in claim 16, further comprising two horizontal guiding rails respectively mounted to the first and second crossbeams, each of the two horizontal guiding rails having a plurality of index locations spaced a distance apart along it, wherein each training attachment is slidable with respect to the corresponding horizontal guiding rail and positioned in a selected one of the index locations.

Patent History
Publication number: 20170056705
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 30, 2015
Publication Date: Mar 2, 2017
Applicant:
Inventors: Yifei Zha (Oconomowoc, WI), Thor S. Swanson (Sun Prairie, WI), Donald E. Stiemke (Madison, WI), Scott R. McDermott (Waunakee, WI), Becky L. Jalbert (Monona, WI)
Application Number: 14/840,043
Classifications
International Classification: A63B 21/16 (20060101); A63B 23/12 (20060101); A63B 21/068 (20060101); A63B 1/00 (20060101); A63B 21/00 (20060101);