WEIGHTLIFTING GRIP DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR WEIGHTLIFTING EXERCISING AND TRAINING

Abstract

Exercise devices useful for weightlifting exercises and training are provided. More specifically, a weightlifting exercise device and system is provided for improving the grip and support of a weightlifting bar or barbell when in use. The present exercise device provides the user with a better grip on the weightlifting bar, while enabling the user to change hand positions along the weightlifting bar to vary the exercise routine or accommodate the physical requirements of the user. The weightlifting exercise device is designed to fit easily around the circumference of weightlifting bar or barbell. The present exercise device is also portable and easy to store.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention claims priority as a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/358,291 titled, “Weightlifting Grip Device and System for Weightlifting Exercising and Training,” filed Jun. 25, 2021, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to exercise devices. More specifically, an exercise device and system are provided for use in weightlifting exercises, and specifically for gripping and supporting a weightlifting bar. The present exercise device enables to the user to have a better grip on the weightlifting bar, as well as provides the option to easily change hand positions along the length of the weightlifting bar.

BACKGROUND

Weight training is a type of strength training that uses weights for resistance. Weight training provides a stress to the muscles that causes them to adapt and get stronger, similar to the way aerobic conditioning strengthens the heart. Weight training can be performed with free weights, such as barbells and dumbbells, or by using weight machines.

When using barbells or dumbbells, having a proper grip on the weightlifting bar can be important in terms of accuracy, training effectiveness and safety. Improper weightlifting technique can lead to strains, sprains or even fractures. Having proper technique and a secure grip on the weightlifting bar is important because it enables the user to lift more weight and practice more repetitions, while ensuring a safer lifting experience. As well, having the ability to easily change the grip on the bar, such as by having the user's hands closer to each other or further apart along the bar, provides the user with the options to change up the exercises.

Therefore, a need exists for improved exercise device useful in weightlifting exercises and training. Specifically, a need exists for improved weightlifting exercise device and system which provides the users with a better and improved grip on a weightlifting bar.

A need further exists for an improved weightlifting exercise device which permits the user to change the exercise routine by easily changing the location of the user's hands along the weightlifting bar.

A further need exists for an improved weightlifting device which is easily attached and detached from the weightlifting bar.

A further need exists for an improved weightlifting device which is portable and easily stored.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to exercise devices useful for weightlifting exercises and training. More specifically, a weightlifting exercise device and system is provided for improved gripping and supporting a weightlifting bar or barbell. The present exercise device provides the user with a better grip on the weightlifting bar and enables the user to change hand position along the weightlifting bar to vary the exercise routine. The weightlifting exercise device is designed to easily engage the circumference of the weightlifting bar or barbell and is portable and easy to store.

To this end, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, a weightlifting grip device is provided. The device comprises a semi-cylindrical body having an outer surface and an inner surface and at least one roller embedded within an opening in the inner surface, wherein the inner surface and at least one roller contact a weightlifting bar positioned within the inner surface.

In another embodiment, a weightlifting exercise system is provided. The weightlifting exercise system comprises an elongated bar having a first end and an opposing second end, the first end and second end configured for receiving a plurality of removeable weights, a gripping device configured for engagement with a hand of a user and the elongated bar, the gripping device comprising a semi-cylindrical body having an outer surface and an inner surface, an opening within the inner surface, and at least one roller embedded within the opening in the inner surface.

In a further embodiment, a weightlifting exercise system is provided. The system comprises an elongated bar having a first end and an opposing second end, the first end and second end configured for receiving a plurality of removeable weights, a gripping device configured for engagement with a hand of a user and the elongated bar, the gripping device comprising a semi-cylindrical longitudinal body having a center section and opposing flange ends, the center section having an inner surface with a radius for receiving the elongated bar, a plurality of openings within the inner surface of the body and a plurality of rollers embedded within the openings at a depth wherein the plurality of rollers contact the elongated bar when the bar is received within the inner surface.

It is, therefore, an advantage and objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved exercise device and specifically, an improved exercise device for use in weightlifting exercise and training.

It is another advantage and objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved weightlifting exercise device which is sized to easily engage a weightlifting bar.

It is yet another advantage and objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved weightlifting exercise device which gives the user an improved grip on a weightlifting bar or barbell.

It is further an advantage and objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved weightlifting training system offering the user improved grip and options for changing the exercise routine, or to accommodate the specific training needs of the user.

Yet another advantage and objective of the present disclosure is to provide an improved weightlifting device which permits the user to vary an exercise routine by easily changing gripping locations along the weightlifting bar.

Moreover, it is another advantage and objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved weightlifting device which is easily attached and detached from the weightlifting bar.

Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure are described in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of the embodiments and from the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present concepts, by way of example only, not by way of limitations. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A illustrates a back view of the weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B illustrates the back view of the weightlifting exercise device in use on a barbell;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the weightlifting exercise device in a closed, stored position;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the weightlifting exercise device in a closed, stored position;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the weightlifting exercise device and system of the present disclosure in use;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the weightlifting exercise device and system of the present disclosure in use in a different position;

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a weightlifting exercise device in an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a weightlifting exercise device with an elastic band in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a weightlifting bar clamp in an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a weightlifting exercise system of a weightlifting exercise device, a weightlifting bar clamp, and an elastic band in an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate a method of using a weightlifting exercise system on a weightlifting bar in an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to exercise devices useful for weightlifting exercises and training. More specifically, a weightlifting exercise device and system is provided for improved gripping and supporting of a weightlifting bar or barbell when in use. The present exercise device provides the user with a better grip on the weightlifting bar, while enabling the user to change hand position along the weightlifting bar to vary the exercise routine. The weightlifting exercise device is designed to fit easily around the circumference of weightlifting bar or barbell. The present exercise device is also portable and easy to store.

Now referring to the figures, wherein like numerals refer to like parts, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a perspective view of an embodiment of a weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4A illustrates a back view of the weightlifting exercise device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4B illustrates the back view of the weightlifting exercise device in use on a barbell. FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a perspective view of the weightlifting exercise device in a closed, stored position. FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate perspective views of the weightlifting exercise device and system of the present disclosure in use in different positions.

Weightlifting exercises and training are improved through use of the weightlifting grip device 10 of the present disclosure. The present weightlifting grip device 10 enables the user to have an improved, secure grip on the elongated bar 100 of a barbell or weightlifting bar, while also permitting the user to change hand location along the bar to vary an exercise routine, and/or to accommodate the hand and arm position of a particular user.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the present weightlifting grip device 10 includes a semi-cylindrical 12 or C-shaped body. The body 12 of the device generally has a longitudinal length slightly longer than width of the average hand, which allows a user of the device to obtain a comfortable grip on the device. The shape of the body 12 is similar to that of a dumbbell, having a center section 12a with opposing extending flanges 12b forming the ends of the body. The weightlifting grip device 10 can be constructed from any suitable material, but generally a smooth hard plastic is a preferred material for durability and ease of manufacture.

The body 12 of the device includes an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 16. The outer surface 14 is convex and can be either smooth or include an optional pattern, either raised or embossed within the surface. A patterned surface may provide aesthetics and additional grip to the surface. The center section 12a of the body 12 has a width which is approximately the same as the palm of the average hand 200 of a user. Ideally, the center section 12a is not so wide that the user cannot wrap several, if not all, of his/her fingers around the device 10, as shown in FIG. 7. The confirmation of the center section 12a of the body 12 gives the user not only a more comfortable grip on the device, but also control over placement and movement of the grip device 10 on the elongated bar 100.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the outer surface 14 of the body 12 can include an optional handle or strap 18. The handle 18 is secured through openings 19 at the flange ends 12b of the body. The handle 18 is ideally a Velcro® strap, which is adjustable for accommodating a hand 200 of a user as he/she grips the outer surface of the device 10 (FIG. 4B). The handle or strap 18 may also be used to hang or otherwise store the grip device 10 when not in use.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the inner surface 16 of the device has a generally convex shape. The inner surface 16 has a width or radius, which matches the radius of a standard weightlifting bar or barbell 100, so that the weightlifting grip device 10 engages the bar as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The inner surface 16 includes at least one recess or opening 20 disposed within the inner surface. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the opening 20 has a T-shape for receiving the roller bearings 22 incorporated into the device 10. Additionally, in this particular embodiment, two opposing pairs of openings 20 are shown at either flange end 12b of the body 12 of the device. However, it should be understood that the recesses or openings can have any shape to accommodate a particular roller bearing 22, and the location of the openings within the inner surface can also vary. For example, there may be two opposing openings 20 in the center of the inner surface 16. Another option may be a single long opening spanning the length of the inner surface for accommodating any number of roller bearings 22. Thus, the number, shape and location of recesses or openings 20 incorporated into the grip device 10 are not limited to those shown in the figures.

As noted, the grip device 10 is movable laterally along the length of the weightlifting or barbell 100. The ability to move the grip device 10 along the weightlifting bar allows the user to change the spacing between his/her hands 200, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8. The sliding motion of the device 10 is accomplished using a roller or plurality of rollers positioned within the openings 20 of the inner surface 16 of the body 12. FIGS. 1-3 illustrate an embodiment of the type of roller bearing 22 useful in the present device. These particular rollers 22 are dual shaft roller bearings on an axle that are press-fit or embedded into the cross-shaped openings 20. However, as with the openings 20, it should be understood that any suitable roller design, and number and location of the rollers can be used in the present device 10. Additionally, the rollers 22 may or may not be embedded into the inner surface 16.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the rollers 22 are embedded into the cross-shaped opening 20 at a depth such that about one-third to one-fourth of the roller extends above the top of the inner surface 16. In this manner, the rollers 22 are secured within the body 12 of the grip device 10 but are minimally exposed enough to contact the weightlifting bar 100 when the bar is seated within the inner surface. Seating the rollers 22 in this manner protects the rollers from damage and provides a more secure fit for longevity of the grip device 10.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the weightlifting grip device 10 is useful in a system for weightlifting exercise and training. The user simply places his or her hand 200 through the handle 18a and wraps the hand around the center section 12a of the body 12 of the device. When the grip device 10 is placed onto a weightlifting bar 100, the bar contacts the inner surface 16 of the device and it also contacts the roller or rollers 22. The rollers 22 permit the user to slide the grip device into different positions, changing the spacing between his/her hands 200 either closer together or further apart on the bar, as reflected in FIGS. 7 and 8. The width of the center section 12b of the grip device 10 permits the user to wrap his/her fingers around the device and contact the bar 100, which allows the user to control and/or stop the movement of the grip device 10 along the length of the bar (FIG. 7).

Depending on the abilities and/or goals of the user, the grip devices 10 are typically used in pairs one in each hand, on a weightlifting bar 100 for weightlifting exercise and training. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, it is preferable to keep a pair of grip devices 10 together for storage and portability. Storing a pair of weightlifting grip devices 10 is easily accomplished using magnets 30. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, magnets are inserted flush into the surface of each flange end 12b of the body 12 of the device. Specifically, opposing magnets 30 with opposite poles on opposite diagonals are positioned one on each flange end 12b, so that no matter the orientation of the grip devices, the magnets will lock together.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-13B, a weightlifting system is disclosed in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a weightlifting grip device 110 that is generally similar to the weightlifting grip device 10, described above, with the notable differences described herein. Specifically, the weightlifting grip device 110 may comprise a semi-cylindrical or C-shaped body 112a with an extended flange 112b on a terminal end thereof and an opposing extended flange 112c on an opposite end of the semi-cylindrical C-shaped body 112a. A strap 118 may be provided for accommodating a hand of a user as he or she grips the outer surface of the weightlifting grip device 110. Further, an outer surface 114 of the semi-cylindrical or C-shaped body 112a may be either smooth or include an optional pattern, either raised or embossed on the surface 114, which may provide additional grip for a user's hand.

As illustrated in FIG. 9B, an inner surface 116 may be generally convex in shape, having a width or radius that matches the radius of a standard weightlifting bar. The inner surface 116 may comprise at least one recess or opening 120 therein, each of which may receive a roller bearing 122 incorporated therein. Magnets 130 may be inserted flush into the surface of each flange end 112b, 112c of the body 112a of the device 110, which may hold two devices together by aligning magnets of opposite poles, as described above with reference to device 10.

The flange 112c may have an elastic tube holding element 132, which may comprise a first jaw 134, a second jaw 136, and a passage 138 defined between the first jaw 134 and the second jaw 136. The passage 138 may be sized and shaped to receive an elastic tube 150, as shown in FIG. 10. The elastic tube 150 may comprise a bulb end 152, which may be formed by fitting a sphere or other like shape within a terminal end of the elastic tube 150, which may act as a stop thereby preventing the elastic tube 150 from being pulled laterally through the passage 138. Preferably, the passage 138 may include a spheroid seat 140 in which the bulb end 152 may sit, thereby further holding the elastic tube 150 in place within the passage 138. Thus, the elastic tube 150 may be stretched laterally away from the device 110 and may be utilized in weightlifting workouts, as described below.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate a clamp 210 that may be utilized in conjunction with the weightlifting grip device 110 and the elastic tube 150 in a workout. Specifically, the clamp 210 may include a first semi-cylindrical base element 212 and a second semi-cylindrical base element 214 that may fit together to form a passage 215 through which a weightlifting bar (not shown) may be disposed. When clamped together, the first and second semi-cylindrical base elements 212, 214 may grip the weightlifting bar and prevent movement thereof. To aid in gripping the weightlifting bar, an elastic or gripping layer 243 may be disposed on the inside surfaces thereof.

The first and second semi-cylindrical base elements 212, 214 may be hinged together via hinge 218 so that the base elements 212, 214 close and open relative to each other. To hold the base elements 212, 214 together, a latch 218 may be connected to the second base element 214 via hinge 220, which may rotate the same so that a clasp 228 may engage a receiving element 230 disposed on or within the first base element 212. The latch 218 and/or the receiving element 230 may have a plurality of settings, thereby allowing the clamp 210 to engage weightlifting bars with different radii.

Disposed on the second semi-cylindrical base element 214 may be an elastic tube holding element 222, which may comprise a first jaw 224, a second jaw 226 and a passage 240 between the first and second jaws 224, 226, which may be sized and shaped to receive an elastic tube therein, as shown in FIG. 12. The passage 240 may comprise a first spheroid seat 242 on one end thereof and a second spheroid seat 244 on an opposite end thereof, each of which may hold the bulb end of an elastic tube therein, which may act as a stop, allowing the elastic tube to be stretched laterally.

The weightlifting grip device 110 and the clamp 210 may work together with an elastic tube 150 connected on opposite ends thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 12. Thus, the clamp 210 may be attached to a weightlifting bar 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B, with a user's hand gripping the weightlifting grip device 110 on the weightlifting bar 100 and the elastic tube 150 disposed therebetween. As shown in FIGS. 13A-13B, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the weightlifting grip device 110 may move inwardly and outwardly as a user does a rep by lowering and lifting the weightlifting bar toward and away from his or her chest (in a so-called “bench press” workout). As the user moves the weightlifting grip device 110 away from the clamp 210, the elastic tube 150 may stretch thereby providing resistance to the movement of the weightlifting grip device 210 during the workout. Therefore, a user may not only obtain the benefits of the bench press workout but may also receive the benefits of the movement of the weightlifting grip device 110 as it moves away from and toward the clamp 210.

Of course, it should be noted that the exercise workout illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B is exemplary, and the system described herein using the weightlifting grip device 110, the clamp 210, and the elastic tube 150 may be utilized on any number of workout routines and should not be limited as described herein.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. Further, references throughout the specification to “the invention” are nonlimiting, and it should be noted that claim limitations presented herein are not meant to describe the invention as a whole. Moreover, the invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A weightlifting grip device comprising:

a semi-cylindrical body having an outer surface and an inner surface; and,

at least one roller positioned within an opening on the inner surface, wherein the at least one roller is configured to contact a weightlifting bar received within the inner surface.

2. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the body is configured for a hand of a user.

3. The weightlifting grip device of claim 2, wherein at least one finger of the hand of the user extends beyond the width of the outer surface of the device when the hand engages the device.

4. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1, wherein the device further includes a strap on the outer surface.

5. The weightlifting grip device of claim 5, wherein the strap is configured for receiving a hand of a user.

6. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the device has a concave surface having a radius configured to receive a weightlifting bar.

7. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1, wherein the at least one roller is embedded within a portion of the opening on the inner surface.

8. The weightlifting device of claim 1 wherein the at least one roller is configured to move the device laterally along a length of a weightlifting bar.

9. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1, wherein at least two sets of rollers are positioned within openings within the inner surface.

10. The weightlifting grip device of claim 1 further comprising:

an elastic tube holding element on an end of the semi-cylindrical body, the elastic tube holding element comprising a first jaw, an opposing second jaw, and a passage between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein the elastic tube holding element is configured to hold an elastic tube within the passage between the first jaw and the second jaw.

11. The weightlifting grip device of claim 10 wherein the passage comprises a spheroid seat on at least one end thereof, wherein the spheroid seat is configured to sit a bulb end on an elastic tube.

12. A weightlifting exercise system comprising:

an elongated bar having a first end and an opposing second end, the first end and second end configured for receiving a plurality of removeable weights;

a gripping device configured for engagement with a hand of a user and the elongated bar, the gripping device comprising:

a semi-cylindrical body having an outer surface and an inner surface;

an opening within the inner surface; and,

at least one roller embedded within the opening in the inner surface,

wherein the at least one roller contacts the elongated bar received within the inner surface.

13. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 12, wherein the outer surface has a width for engaging a portion of the hand of the user.

14. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 12, wherein the inner surface has an inner radius for receiving the elongated bar.

15. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 12, wherein the at least one roller is positioned within the opening at a depth for contacting with the elongated bar when the elongated bar is within the inner surface.

16. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 12 further comprising:

an elastic tube holding element on an end of the semi-cylindrical body, the elastic tube holding element comprising a first jaw, an opposing second jaw, and a passage between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein the elastic tube holding element holds a first end of an elastic tube within the passage between the first jaw and the second jaw.

17. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 16 wherein the passage comprises a spheroid seat on at least one end thereof, wherein the spheroid seat is configured to sit a spheroid end of the elastic tube.

18. The weightlifting exercise system of claim 16 further comprising:

a clamp configured to clamp to the elongated bar, the clamp comprising a second elastic tube holding element, wherein the second elastic tube holding element comprises a third jaw, an opposing fourth jaw, and a second passage between the third jaw and the fourth jaw, wherein the second elastic tube holding element holds a second end of an elastic tube within the second passage between the third jaw and the fourth jaw.

19. A weightlifting exercise apparatus comprising:

a grip element configured to engage a user's hand; and

an elastic tube holding element comprising a first jaw, an opposing second jaw and a passage between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein the elastic tube holding element holds an end of an elastic tube within the passage between the first jaw and the second jaw.

20. The weightlifting exercise apparatus of claim 19 wherein the passage comprises a spheroid seat on at least one end thereof, wherein the spheroid seat is configured to hold a spheroid end of the elastic tube.