Dual Balance Spring Tower Apparatus and Method of Using Same

Abstract

A resistance exercise machine having cable and pulley linkage assemblies attached to a plurality of springs, or other resistance sources. Each cable and pulley linkage assembly, which is independent of the other(s), can be used by one arm or leg during bilateral exercise resistance training (that is, training in which both limbs of a pair are used to simultaneously pull a certain resistance). A tilt platform and biofeedback assembly display and measure in real-time how much each limb of a pair is contributing so such exercise movement and effort.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION

Priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/818,182, filed Mar. 14, 2019, incorporated herein by reference, is hereby claimed.

STATEMENTS AS TO THE RIGHTS TO THE INVENTION MADE UNDER FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

None

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention pertains to a weight resistance exercise machine. More particularly, the present invention pertains to an exercise assembly having a multi-cable and pulley linkage system attached to a plurality of springs, or other resistance means, and attached to a biofeedback system. More particularly still, the present invention pertains to a Dual Balance (DB) Spring Tower assembly, or an exercise assembly, that can be used alongside other Pilates' equipment, although it can be used equally in other exercise settings that incorporate strength training equipment.

2. Brief Description of the Prior Art

“Pilates” is a popular exercise method founded by Joseph Pilates. The primary exercise apparatus used by Pilates practitioners is the Pilates Reformer. It consists of a frame, which houses a moveable carriage that a trainee would usually lie on, in a supine, side or prone position, and sits or kneels on to perform a variety of exercise movements.

Steel springs attached to a spring bar and the moveable carriage provide resistance for each exercise, as the trainee pushes on the foot bar, or pulls on the ropes which are also attached to the carriage. The steel springs are typically color coded to indicate resistance level.

One drawback of the Pilates Reformer design is that it cannot be used to exercise from a standing position with feet planted on the floor (ground surface). The Specificity of Training Principle states that strength training affects both the muscular system and the nervous system. The closer the exercise movement resembles the real life movement and the body position of that movement, the greater the transfer of training benefits from the exercise to the real life movement, not only in strength but also in stability, function, and muscle coordination. For example, in order to strengthen the leg muscles for a real life activity, such as a squat motion, an upright squat exercise will result in a greater “carry over” effect when compared to a lying supine leg press performed on a Pilates Reformer.

The guiding principles of Pilates training are to engage and strengthen the body's core, to train the body as one integrated unit, to improve strength, balance and stability, to improve physical function to help the trainee to perform real-life tasks with more efficiency, and to improve body awareness through mindful training.

Most real-life activities, especially when muscular force is activated to carry out “strength-specific tasks,” are done from a standing position. The standing position provides increased core bracing in the abdominal and low back areas, creating greater body stability and force output during physical exertion. Exercises done from a standing position prepare the trainee for more advanced stabilization, an increase in real life functional strength, and full body integration during physical exertion. Moreover, people that have difficulty sitting, kneeling, crossing their legs, etc.—need an alternative body position for exercise. Standing is the better option. As such, exercises done from a lying, sitting or kneeling position are not as beneficial or transfer as well to real-life movements done from a standing position.

One result of this design drawback in the Pilates Reformer was to provide Pilates' practitioners with complementary equipment, to perform Pilates based exercises from a standing position. For example, one such common complementary apparatus, which is mounted on the Reformer, is called the Tower. Versions of the Tower can also be free-standing or wall mounted units. Manufacturers of Pilates equipment (for example, Balanced Body and Merrithew), produce wall mounted versions of the Tower called the Pilates Springboard™, and the Spring Wall™.

All versions of the Tower, the Pilates Springboard™ and the Spring Wall™ use steel springs as the preferred resistance means. Joseph Pilates used springs in his original inventions and Pilates purists still advocate steel springs as the resistance means for several reasons:

• • 1) Females are the main participants in Pilates training.
  • 2) Joseph Pilates' early success was in training injured dancers.
  • 3) Pilates has always marketed strength training with steel springs as the best method of strengthening muscles, without the “bulk.”
  • 4) Women generally are intimidated by free-weights and exercise machines with weight stacks. Most women truly believe that they will become “bulky” with weight training.
  • 5) They want long, lean muscles—“a dancer's body.”
  • 6) Springs have a cushioning effect on the joints and therefore create less wear and tear on the musculoskeletal system over a period of time.

The Pilates Towers, the Pilates Springboard™ and the Spring Wall™ use similar methods of providing spring resistance for their trainees. They have at least two springs (normally called “regular”) for the upper body—one for each arm—and they have at least two springs (normally called “long”) for the legs. The springs are color coded to indicate their resistance level, for example, “yellow” to indicate light resistance.

One problem is that this single spring resistance (one for each limb) is not suitable for all of the different strength levels of the new trainees, especially for men; but also for women who vary greatly in terms of starting strength. For some, the starting resistance is too light, for others it is too heavy. Furthermore, when these same springs are used continually over an extended period of time, there is no noticeable improvement in strength. The primary reason for this is, that in order for the muscles to become stronger, there has to be a gradual increase in “stimulus” which forces the muscles to adapt to the new work load by becoming stronger. There has to be a light “progressive resistance” placed on the working muscles in order to enable the body to adapt to the new work load, and enable the trainee to maintain proper exercise technique. In weight training, the progressions are normally 2.5 lbs. to 5 lbs. at a time.

One solution used by Pilates' manufacturers is to provide more springs, with a greater tension to increase the resistance. For example, they provide two (2) additional springs with greater resistance for the upper body (one for each arm) and two (2) longer springs for the lower body (one for each leg). It is to be noted that a major drawback to this approach is that the different muscle groups vary in their ability to produce force. Some muscles are weaker, other muscles are stronger, and the additional springs with greater resistance cannot address the varying strength capabilities of different muscle groups and the strength variances of different individuals. Also, the resistance progression with the new springs is too much for most trainees, especially women.

The springs are attached individually (one for each limb) to spring hooks or anchor points, vertically on two columns or on a frame. The problem with this design is evident when the springs are stretched horizontally in many exercises. The trainee has to be at least a “spring length” away from the frame in order to create tension in the spring(s). This takes up a lot of extra space in the immediate exercise area. Moreover, when the trainee needs the spring(s) to be stretched horizontally and vertically during certain exercise movements, there are “dead spots” (no tension) in the spring(s). When there is no additional tension placed on the working muscles, there are no strength benefits. The trainee encounters the same problem of no tension in certain parts of the exercise movement, when he or she has to be positioned near the frame in order to start the exercise. The drawback with this spring resistance design is that it does not provide for sufficient “gradual” progressions needed to enhance potential strength, or address the vast differences in strength of different individuals. One consistent resistance will not increase strength. Even two to three progressions do not meet the minimum requirements of real-life strength that can be acquired through “progressive” resistance training.

The “one size fits all” training system is the opposite of the principal concept that every person has unique physical attributes and the resistance means should match the individual's level of ability; and then with gentle progressions stimulate the muscles to adapt to the progressive overload. The training results are stronger muscles and increased functional strength for real-life activities.

The Dual Balance Spring Tower of the present invention, which is a variation of the Pilates Tower(s), Pilates Springboard™ and the Spring Wall™, solves this problem in an innovative manner. The Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly is an improvement over the present art and solves several design shortcomings in the above-mentioned conventional Pilates exercise equipment. The Dual Balance Spring Tower comprises a vertically movable spring carriage that provides immediate spring tension through a full range of exercise motion for all exercise movements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The exercise assembly of the present invention comprises a Dual Balance Spring Tower apparatus, wherein said apparatus comprises a vertically moveable carriage that houses one to five (1-5) detachable steel spring members of uneven resistance from each other. Said spring members are color coded to indicate resistance level. The same combination of springs are used for both upper body (arms) and lower body (legs), and said springs are vertically positioned in the carriage, which glides vertically along two (2) guide rods.

The springs are identified by color as: (1) very light; (2) light; (3) medium; (4) heavy; and (5) very heavy. However, it is to be noted that these springs all have a different resistance level from each other. As a result, the Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly carriage spring members offer up to twenty-three (23) different resistance combinations for a trainee for both the upper body and lower body.

A user, or trainee, can use one spring by both upper body limbs and both lower body limbs. There is no need (as in the Pilates Tower™ and Springboard™ equipment) to have two separate springs for the upper body and two separate springs for the lower body. The trainee can start with one out of twenty-three possible levels of resistance starting with only one spring or using a combination of springs as needed for progressions in order to gradually increase strength or match the starting strength of the trainee.

In the preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a bilateral exercise machine having a frame, a vertical spring carriage assembly and dual cable and pulley linkage assemblies attached to said spring assembly. Said cable and pulley linkage assemblies are independent of one another; that is, such cable and pulley linkage systems are oriented in a manner that splits resistance from said spring assembly into two equal halves, with fifty (50%) percent resistance for each limb during bilateral exercise performance. In the preferred embodiment, even though said dual cable and pulley linkage assemblies are separate and independent from each other, such parallel linkage assemblies are attached to the same spring assembly (and not to multiple spring assemblies).

The dual balance cable and pulley design splits the total weight resistance of one spring or a combination of springs equally for both limbs; 50% for one limb and 50% for the other limb. Thus, the work needed to perform the exercise movement by the two limbs working simultaneously is shared equally. The total resistance can be provided by one spring or a combination of the five springs, each with a different resistance range. The dual balance cable and pulley design also allows the trainee to use one limb at a time to perform an exercise movement.

Because such cable and pulley linkage assemblies of the present invention operate independently from each other, a user immediately receives an indication if one limb (arm or leg) is contributing more effort than the other limb during bilateral exercise. Such indication includes, without limitation, a cable on the “weaker” side become slack which, in turn, results in a resistance being off-balance and a user seeing that the resistance being pulled is off-balance.

The Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly with its unique spring carriage design can accommodate trainees with either a very low starting strength or a high level of starting strength. Additionally, the multiple spring resistance combinations take into account that some muscles are weaker or stronger than other muscle groups. One constant resistance for all muscle groups does not address this muscle strength variance.

The Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly of the present invention provides gradual progressions of resistance needed to enhance an individual's strength potential. It prepares the individual to carry out real-life demands at work, play, sports or in every day activities in a safe and efficient manner. It enables a trainee to perform a variety of exercise movements using a single limb or both limbs simultaneously of both the upper and lower body. It allows the trainee to do exercises from a variety of body positions: lying (supine, prone, side); sitting (cross-legged, legs straight); kneeling (with hips and glutes on heels and with hips elevated) and quadruped.

However, the main body position that the Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly of the present invention addresses is standing. The amount of force generated by the body is affected by the strength of the “bracing” of the core (abdominals, low back) and how stable the body position is during exertion. Sitting and kneeling positions do not place the body in a stable position or prepare the body well for standing movements. An important exercise goal is to improve stabilization and core contribution during exercise performance.

There are no “dead” spots (lack of tension) in the springs with the Dual Balance Spring Tower assembly during exercise performance. To maximize the strength training effects on the working muscles during exercise performance, there should be constant tension placed on the muscles throughout the full range of exercise motion. The dual balance vertical spring carriage enables the trainee to be closer to the spring tower training apparatus during exercise performance. There is an immediate and continuous tension placed on the working muscles throughout the full range of exercise motion regardless of the body position.

The Dual Balance vertical columns allow the pulley housings to be positioned in thirty (30) different anchor points for each limb. This variety of angles of resistance offers a greater number of exercise positions than any Pilates apparatus.

In a preferred embodiment, the exercise assembly of the present invention comprises a tilt platform that enables a user to receive “real-time” visual feedback during exercise performance. Such tilt platform further stimulates both sides (limbs) of a user's body during exercise and dynamically activates balancing mechanisms that require a user to coordinate both sides of the body in order to balance the resistance that is being pulled.

Said tilt platform is more responsive and sensitive to the uneven contribution of each limb to force exertion during bilateral exercise. Due to its sensitivity, the tilt platform provides the user “real-time” biofeedback via force output and constantly challenges the user to keep the platform from tilting. Ultimately, the goal is to keep the platform in a horizontally level position (i.e., parallel to the top plate of the weight stack) during bilateral exercise performance. Additionally, by utilizing said tilt platform, the integrated benefits to a user during exercise performance will be substantially greater by way of challenging a user's kinesthetic system.

Even though the springs are “guided” in a linear manner with guide rods, the tilt platform is dynamic, thus constantly giving feedback to the user via force output and challenging said user to make any necessary adjustments in order to keep said tilt platform in a relatively horizontal position. As a result, the tilt platform requires balance and an increased mind-body connection, as well as an improved neuro-muscular function. By focusing on keeping the tilt platform in a relatively horizontal position (i.e., parallel to the top plate of the spring assembly), the user (1) has “real-time” visual feedback due to the sensitivity and response of said tilt platform; and (2) is forced to make any necessary adjustments, and as a result, can engage the mind to focus on controlling the speed of the exercise movement, thereby enabling the nervous system to develop a better muscle/strength balance.

Thus, the tilt platform allows a user to visually see which limb is contributing more or less output, or effort, during bilateral training. For example, if the left limb is exerting more force, the left side of the tilt platform will lift in a relatively upward direction and the right side of the tilt platform will drop or tilt in a relatively downward direction, thereby indicating that the right limb is not contributing as much effort as the left limb. By constantly adjusting the force that is exerted by the limbs during exercise performance to make them equal, the user will be able to train the brain and nervous system and to train the muscles to perform equally, thereby correcting strength imbalance between two limbs.

Through visual feedback, a user can now turn strength “imbalance” between two limbs into “balance” by way of lifting with both limbs relatively equally during exercise performance. The user will be able to learn not to lead with a dominant side, but rather to use both limbs equally and evenly during bilateral training. As a result, when there is a dual balance between the two limbs, which is represented by two independent (separate) cables working together during bilateral exercise, there is no longer a force output or tension imbalance due to strength imbalance.

The dual balance exercise assembly of the present invention permits a user to work both sides of the body in a coordinated, dynamic manner using bilateral strength or resistance training. In addition to other benefits, such balanced training and said tilt platform can also significantly improve physical therapy outcomes and training outcomes. By challenging a user's nervous system, muscles and connective tissues work together to achieve balanced effort. As a result, a user's body is able to learn how to strengthen the weaker side of the body by integrating and strengthening the mind-body connection.

While the present invention is described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments (and legal equivalents thereof).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

The foregoing summary, as well as any detailed description of the preferred embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the drawings and figures contained herein. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, the drawings and figures show certain preferred embodiments. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific methods and devices disclosed in such drawings or figures.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a first (left) side view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a detailed side view of a preferred embodiment of a portion of a vertical frame column member and right adjustable pulley and linkage assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a rear perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention.

FIG. 5 depicts a front view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower with pulley assemblies and a tilt platform in accordance with the dual balance system of the present invention.

FIG. 6A depicts a side view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention in operation.

FIG. 6B depicts a side view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention in operation.

FIG. 6C depicts a side view of a preferred embodiment of a spring tower exercise assembly equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention in operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 depicts a side perspective view of exercise assembly 10 equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a base assembly comprising lower base members 20, parallel base support members 21, and lower frame support member 22 extending between said base support members 21. Said base assembly should beneficially provide a stable and secure foundation for exercise assembly 10, particularly during exercise performance by a user.

Left vertical frame column member 173 and right vertical frame column member 273 extend upward from said base assembly. In a preferred embodiment, said vertical frame column members 173 and 273 are oriented substantially vertically and parallel to each other. Further, each of said vertical frame column members 173 and 273 can include a plurality of space-apart transverse bores 175 and 275, respectively; said bores 175 and 275 are beneficially spaced apart at desired intervals. Cap member 24 is disposed on the upper ends of said substantially vertical and substantially parallel frame members 173 and 273. In addition, cap member 24 is disposed on the upper ends of substantially vertical and substantially parallel spring carriage alignment rails 182 and 282.

Still referring to FIG. 1, spring loaded carriage assembly 30 is positioned within said exercise assembly 10. Although said spring assembly 30 can be placed in any number of different locations without departing from the scope of the present invention, in the preferred embodiment, said spring assembly 30 is beneficially positioned on or about lower frame support member 22 and centered between parallel vertical frame column members 173 and 273. Spring assembly 30 comprises left spring alignment rail 182 and right spring alignment rail 282. Said spring alignment rails 182 and 282 are disposed on lower frame support member 22, and extend from lower frame support member 22 to cap member 24. Further, spring carriage alignment rails 182 and 282 beneficially guide a plurality of springs 31 during exercise and support a top plate member 35 of a tilt platform 80. Parallel linkage assemblies, comprising left cable 101 and right cable 201, and a plurality of pulley assemblies discussed in more detail below, is disposed on and/or around said support frame members of exercise assembly 10, and connected to spring assembly 30.

Spring assembly 30 comprises tilt platform 80 attachably connected to and relatively evenly balanced in a center position on the top of center spring assembly rod 81 by means of rotatable connecting bolt 82. Rotatable connecting bolt 82 allows tilt platform 80 to substantially “tilt” or lean from side to side during exercise performance. Tilt platform 80 supports left tilt platform pulley assembly 130 and right tilt platform pulley assembly 230, wherein both tilt platform pulley assemblies 130 and 230 are mounted on rotatable mounting pins 135 and 235 that enable tilt platform pulley assemblies 130 and 230 to lean from side to side during exercise performance.

As depicted in FIG. 1, left cable 101 extends through left adjustable pulley assembly 110, over left upper front pulley assembly 120, under left tilt platform pulley assembly 130, over left upper rear pulley assembly 140 and under left lower pulley assembly 150. Although not visible in FIG. 1, left cable 101 is anchored to left adjustable pulley assembly 110. Similarly, right cable 201 extends through right adjustable pulley assembly 210, over right upper front pulley assembly 220, under right tilt platform pulley assembly 230, over right upper rear pulley assembly 240 and under right lower pulley assembly 250. Although not visible in FIG. 1, right cable 201 is anchored to right adjustable pulley assembly 210.

Left cable 101 and right cable 201 are two separate cables that are separately connected to a spring assembly 30 by way of connecting to the top of tilt platform 80. As a result, when left cable 101 and right cable 201 are separate and independent from one another, but are working together in order to lift a load, any “uneven” contribution of force exerted by the limbs will be indicated in the cable tension during exercise performance, wherein said “uneven” contribution can be viewed by the position of tilt platform 80 in relation to the top plate 35 of spring assembly 30. Thus, when both limbs contribute force evenly, tilt platform 80 will be in a substantially horizontal position and relatively parallel to the top plate 35 of spring assembly 30.

FIG. 2 depicts a first (left) side view of an exercise assembly 10 equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention. It is to be noted that while an opposite (right) side view of said exercise assembly 10 is not illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 herein, said opposite (right) side view of said exercise assembly is to mirror the image depicted in FIG. 2. A base assembly comprises lower base members 20, base support members 21, and lower frame support member 22, and provides a stable and secure foundation for exercise assembly 10.

Left vertical frame member 173 and right vertical frame member 273 extend upward from said base assembly. Said left and right vertical frame members 173 and 273 are oriented substantially vertically and include a plurality of spaced-apart transverse bores 175 and 275. Said bores 175 and 275 can be beneficially spaced apart at desired intervals. Cap member 24 is disposed on the upper ends of said substantially vertical and substantially parallel left and right frame members 173 and 273.

Spring loaded carriage assembly 30, which comprises a variable level of resistance for training, is positioned within said exercise assembly 10. In a preferred embodiment, said spring assembly 30 comprises a plurality—typically five (5)—of spring members 31. Said spring members 31 vary in resistance level and can be combined in a number of different variations in order for a user to quickly and efficiently select a desired level of resistance to be pulled by adjusting the particular spring members 31 that are being used. Moreover, spring loaded carriage assembly 30 comprises a storage spring rack 33 in order to hold and storage springs 31 that are not in use. Storage spring rack 33 is beneficially positioned on or about lower frame support member 22, centered between parallel vertical frame column members 173 and 273, and beneficially positioned in front of spring loaded carriage assembly 30 for easy accessibility to said springs 31.

As depicted in FIG. 2, left adjustable pulley assembly 110 is slidably disposed along a portion of the length of left vertical frame member 173. Similarly, although not depicted in the Figures, right adjustable pulley assembly 210 is slidably disposed along a portion of the length of right vertical frame member 273. Left cable 101 and right cable 201 are disposed on and/or around said support frame members of exercise assembly 10 through a system of pulleys, and connected to tilt platform 80 and spring assembly 30.

Left cable 101 extends through left adjustable pulley assembly 110, over pulleys 121 and 122 of left upper front pulley assembly 120, under left tilt platform pulley assembly 130, over pulleys 141 and 142 of left upper rear pulley assembly 140 and under left lower pulley assembly 150. Distal end 103 of left cable 101 is anchored to bracket member 111 of left adjustable pulley assembly 110; the position of left adjustable pulley assembly 110 can be selectively adjusted relative to left vertical frame member 173.

Although not depicted in the Figures herein, right cable 201 extends through right adjustable pulley assembly 210, over pulleys 221 and 222 of right upper front pulley assembly 220, under right tilt platform pulley assembly 230, over pulleys 241 and 242 of right upper rear pulley assembly 240 and under right lower pulley assembly 250. As depicted in FIG. 3, distal end 203 of right cable 201 is anchored to bracket member 211 of right adjustable pulley assembly 210; the position of right adjustable pulley assembly 210 can be selectively adjusted relative to right vertical frame member 273. A left handle member 102 is attached to proximate end 104 of left cable 101, while right handle member 202 is attached to proximate end 204 of right cable 201.

Still referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the arrows depict the direction of travel when a user engages in exercise activity using exercise assembly 10. Specifically, the arrows on FIG. 2 depict the travel direction of left cable 101 when a user pulls on left handle 102 with left limb. Similarly, the arrows on FIG. 3 depict the direction of travel of right cable 201 when a user pulls on right handle 202 with right limb.

FIG. 3 depicts a detailed side view of a portion of a right vertical frame column member 273 and right adjustable pulley assembly 210 and linkage assembly of the present invention. Right cable 201, having handle member 202 attached at proximate end 204, extends through pulleys 214 of right adjustable pulley assembly 210. Right adjustable pulley assembly 210 has housing section 212 slidably disposed on right vertical column member 273. Said housing section 212 can be selectively secured in place using adjustment pin 213, which can be received within transverse bores 275. (Although not visible in FIG. 3, said right cable 201 extends over pulleys 221 and 222 of right upper front pulley assembly 220, under right tilt platform pulley assembly 230, over pulleys 241 and 242 of right upper rear pulley assembly 240 and under right lower pulley assembly 250).

Distal end 203 of right cable 201 is anchored to bracket member 211 of right adjustable pulley assembly 210 which, in turn, can be adjustably positioned relative to right vertical frame member 273.

FIG. 4 depicts a rear view of exercise assembly 10 equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention. A base assembly comprises a lower base assembly. Said lower base assembly depicted in FIG. 4 is slightly different than the base assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3 to illustrate that the specific design of said base assembly is generally not essential to the function of exercise assembly 10, so long, as said base assembly provides a stable and secure foundation for such exercise assembly 10. Vertical frame members 173 and 273 extend upward from said base assembly. Said vertical frame members 173 and 273 are oriented substantially vertically and parallel to each other, and include a plurality of spaced-apart transverse bores 175 and 275. Cap member 24 is disposed on the upper ends of said substantially vertical frame members 173 and 273 and on the upper ends of said substantially vertical spring pulley assembly 130.

Spring loaded carriage assembly 30 comprises a plurality of centrally positioned and equidistantly spaced apart spring members 31. Left adjustable pulley assembly 110 is slidably disposed on left vertical frame member 173, while right adjustable pulley assembly 210 is slidably disposed on right vertical frame member 273. A linkage assembly having independently functioning left cable 101 and right cable 201 is disposed on and around said support frame members of exercise assembly 10 (including, without limitation, over left upper rear pulley assembly 140 and right upper rear pulley assembly 240), and connected to tilt platform 80.

Spring loaded carriage assembly 30 comprises a storage spring rack 33 in order to hold and storage springs 31 that are not in use. Storage spring rack 33 is beneficially positioned on or about lower frame support member 22, centered between parallel vertical frame column members 173 and 273, and beneficially positioned in front of spring loaded carriage assembly 30 for easy accessibility to said springs 31.

FIG. 5 depicts a front view of spring loaded carriage assembly 30 with tilt platform 80 attached to a plate member 35 via a connecting rotatable mounting pin 82. Further, spring assembly 30 comprises left and right tilt platform pulley assemblies 130 and 230 attached to tilt platform 80 in accordance with the dual balance system of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment, spring assembly 30 comprises a plurality of spring members 31 that permit a variety of different resistance levels to be pulled and utilized. Spring loaded carriage assembly further comprises a face plate member 38, wherein said face plate member can generally be manufactured from a clear, plastic material.

Spring assembly 30 comprises a top plate member 35 that is attachably connected to tilt platform 80 via center rod connecting pin 81. Top plate member further comprises a plurality of eye bolts 36 that connect a first end 32 of resistance springs 31 to top plate member 35. Moreover, lower frame support member 22 comprises a plurality of eye bolts 36 that connect a second end 34 of resistance springs 31 to lower frame support member 22.

In the preferred embodiment, tilt platform 80 is mounted to top plate member 35 by means of a rotatable mounting pin 82. Tilt platform 80 comprises clevis mounting bracket 88 having rotatable mounting pin 82. Further, tilt platform 80 supports left tilt platform pulley assembly 130 and right tilt platform pulley assembly 230. Top plate member 35 acts as a base or support for tilt platform 80. Additionally, top plate member 35 acts as a connector plate for resistance springs 31, which are attachably connected to top plate member 35 and lower frame support member 22 via a plurality of eye bolts 36. Moreover, top plate member 35 acts as a vertical guide plate for a user during exercise performance.

In addition, in the preferred embodiment, left tilt platform pulley assembly 130 comprises pulley wheel 131 rotatably disposed within pulley housing 132; said pulley wheel 131 is rotatable about pulley axle 133. Pulley housing 132 is mounted to tilt platform 80 using clevis mounting bracket 134 having rotatable mounting pin 135. Mounting pin 135 is rotatable within said clevis bracket 134. Similarly, right tilt platform pulley assembly 230 comprises pulley wheel 231 rotatably disposed within pulley housing 232; said pulley wheel 231 is rotatable about pulley axle 233. Pulley housing 232 is mounted to tilt platform 80 using clevis mounting bracket 234 having rotatable mounting pin 235. Mounting pin 235 is rotatable within said clevis bracket 234.

Left cable 101 is disposed around left tilt platform pulley wheel 131, while right cable 201 is disposed around right tilt platform pulley wheel 231. It is to be observed that when left cable 101 is taut (such as when said cable is under tension), left tilt platform pulley assembly 130 is in a substantially upright position. In other words, left pulley member 131 is oriented in a substantially vertical plane. Similarly, when right cable 201 is taut (such as when said cable is under tension), right tilt platform pulley assembly 230 is in a substantially upright position. The amount of force exerted by each limb on its respective cable (i.e., left cable 101 for left limb and right cable 201 for right limb) will determine the position of tilt platform 80 in relation to top plate 35 of spring carriage assembly 30. In the start position of the exercise movement, it is necessary to have a sufficient amount of force exerted by each limb on their respective cables in order to place the pulley wheels 131 and 231 in a substantially vertical plane, thus placing tilt platform 80 in a relatively horizontal position.

Further, it is to be observed that tilt platform pulley housings 132 and 232 can rotate about clevis pivot pins 135 and 235, respectively, allowing such mounting means to act as swivel bushings. This rotational ability allows the pulley wheels 131 and 231 to remain substantially vertical during exercise performance, as long as there is a sufficient initial force output along the cables by the limbs.

As such, if a greater upward force is acting upon left tilt platform housing 132, the left side of tilt platform 80 will “raise” in a relatively upward direction and right side of tilt platform 80 will “drop” in a relatively downward direction. This tilt indicates that a left limb is exerting more force than a right limb. Thus, a user, by observing the position of tilt platform 80 during exercise performance, can correct the force output of the limbs in order to place tilt platform 80 in a desired substantially horizontal position. This visual observation by the user in “real time” during exercise performance can train the user's brain and nervous system by means of a visual biofeedback system in order to correct strength imbalance between the left and the right limbs. As a result, over a period of time, the “weak” side can become equal in strength to the “dominant” (strong) side. Both sides will then be able to contribute equally and evenly to the overall strength output during such bilateral exercise performance.

As noted herein, left and right cable and pulley linkage assemblies of exercise assembly 10 are independent from one another; that is, such cables and pulleys split resistance from spring assembly 30 into two equal halves, with fifty (50%) percent resistance for each side (left and right). As such, said resistance from spring assembly 30 is evenly split between a user's left and right limbs during bilateral exercise performance.

Because such parallel left and right cable and pulley linkage assemblies of the present invention operate independently from each other, a user immediately receives an indication if one limb (left or right) is contributing more effort than the other limb during bilateral exercise. Such indication includes, without limitation, a cable on the “weaker” side becoming slack which, in turn, results in tilt platform 80 “tilting” to the weaker side. The user is able to use this visual cue to exert more force with the weaker limb and less force with the stronger limb in order for tilt platform 80 to balance along top plate member 35 in a relatively horizontal position, thereby indicating equal contributions from both limbs.

The biofeedback system of the present invention (including, without limitation, tilt platform 80) enables a user to receive real-time visual feedback during exercise performance. Specifically, said biofeedback system of the present invention provides data to a user to indicate how much each limb is contributing to the overall work effort during bilateral exercise. Further, such biofeedback system of the present invention allows a user to “even out” strength imbalance between the two limbs, and train a user to “lead with the weak side” in order to build strength in said weak side, while decreasing the force output of the dominant side so that said dominant side does not overpower said weak side during bilateral exercise.

FIGS. 6A through 6C depict side views of a user engaging and operating an exercise assembly 10 equipped with the dual balance system of the present invention through multiple different exercise movements. In the preferred embodiment, the exercise assembly 10 of the present invention comprises a spring loaded carriage assembly 30, wherein said spring assembly 30 further comprises a moveable carriage that houses five (5) detachable spring members 31 of uneven resistance from each other. Said spring members 31 are color coded to indicate resistance level. The same combination of spring members 31 are used for both upper body (arms) and lower body (legs), and said spring members 31 are vertically positioned within said spring carriage assembly 30, which glides vertically along guide rods 182 and 282.

In the preferred embodiment, said cable and pulley linkage systems are oriented in a manner that splits resistance from said spring assembly 30 into two equal halves, with fifty (50%) percent resistance for each limb during bilateral exercise performance. Thus, the work needed by a user to perform the exercise movement by the two limbs working simultaneously is shared equally. The total resistance can be provided by one spring 31 or a combination of the five springs 31, each with a different resistance range. As such, said cable and pulley linkage systems also allow said user to use one limb at a time to perform an exercise movement.

Because such cable and pulley linkage assemblies of the present invention operate independently from each other, said user immediately receives an indication if one limb (arm or leg) is contributing more effort than the other limb during bilateral exercise. Such indication includes, without limitation, a cable on the “weaker” side become slack which, in turn, results in a resistance being off-balance and a user seeing that the resistance being pulled is off-balance.

In the preferred embodiment, the dual balance exercise assembly 10 of the present invention permits a user to work both sides of the body in a coordinated, dynamic manner using bilateral resistance training. In addition to other benefits, such balanced training can also significantly improve physical therapy outcomes. By challenging a user's nervous system, muscles and connective tissues work together to achieve balanced effort. As a result, a user's body learns how to strengthen the weaker side by integrating and strengthening the mind-body connection.

The above-described invention has a number of particular features that should preferably be employed in combination, although each is useful separately without departure from the scope of the invention. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown and described herein, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise than herein specifically illustrated or described, and that certain changes in form and arrangement of parts and the specific manner of practicing the invention may be made within the underlying idea or principles of the invention.

Claims

1. An exercise assembly comprising:

a) a frame;

b) a spring carriage assembly comprising a single resistance source, wherein said spring carriage assembly comprises a top plate member;

c) a tilt platform pivotally attached to said top plate member of said spring carriage assembly;

d) a first pulley connected to said frame;

e) a second pulley connected to said tilt platform;

f) a first cable disposed around said first and second pulleys and connected to said frame;

g) a third pulley connected to said frame;

h) a fourth pulley connected to said tilt platform; and

i) a second cable disposed around said third and fourth pulleys and connected to said frame.

2. The exercise assembly of claim 1, wherein a first tension force is applied to said first cable by a first limb, a second tension force is applied to said second cable by a second limb, and said first and second tension forces are independently imparted on said resistance source.

3. The exercise assembly of claim 2, wherein said resistance source of said carriage assembly comprises at least one spring member, wherein said spring member can have a variety of different resistance levels.

4. The exercise assembly of claim 3, wherein said spring member is attachably connected to said top plate and to a bottom frame support.

5. The exercise assembly of claim 4, wherein said tilt platform is adapted to visually display relative contributions of said first limb and said second limb simultaneously applying force on said resistance source.

6. An exercise assembly comprising:

a) a frame;

b) at least one spring member;

c) a top plate member attached to said spring member;

d) a tilt platform pivotally attached to said top plate;

e) a first linkage assembly comprising: i) a first pulley connected to said frame; ii) a second pulley connected to said tilt platform;

f) a first cable having a distal end and a proximate end, wherein said distal end is anchored to said frame, and said first cable is disposed around said first and second pulleys of said first linkage assembly;

g) a second linkage assembly comprising: i) a third pulley connected to said frame; ii) a fourth pulley connected to said tilt platform; and

h) a second cable having a distal end and a proximate end, wherein said distal end is anchored to said frame, and said second cable is disposed around said third and fourth pulleys of said second linkage assembly.

7. The exercise assembly of claim 6, wherein said tilt platform is adapted to visually display relative contributions of a first limb applying a first tension force to said first cable and a second limb simultaneously applying a second tension force to said second cable.

8. A method for determining relative contributions of a first limb and a second limb simultaneously imparting pulling force on a resistance source comprising:

a) pulling on a proximate end of a first cable of an exercise assembly with said first limb, wherein said exercise assembly comprises: i) a frame, wherein said resistance source is disposed on said frame; ii) a spring carriage assembly comprising a single resistance source, wherein said spring carriage assembly comprises a top plate member; iii) a tilt platform pivotally attached to said top plate of said carriage assembly; iv) a first pulley connected to said frame; v) a second pulley connected to said tilt platform, wherein said first cable has said proximate end and a distal end, said first cable is disposed around said first and second pulleys, and said distal end of said first cable is connected to said frame; vi) a third pulley connected to said frame; vii) a fourth pulley connected to said tilt platform; and viii) a second cable, wherein said second cable has said proximate end and a distal end, said second cable is disposed around said third and fourth pulleys, and said distal end of said second cable is connected to said frame;

b) simultaneously pulling on a proximate end of said second cable with said second limb; and

c) observing relative contributions of said first and second limbs in lifting said single resistance source based on the amount of tilt of said tilt platform from a horizontal orientation.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of adjusting the amount of force applied by said first and second limbs in order to maintain said tilt platform in a substantially horizontal orientation.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein said single resistance source of said carriage assembly comprises at least one spring member, wherein said spring member can have a variety of different resistance levels.