Abstract: An exercising apparatus which enables a user to perform stepping exercises and waist twisting exercises simultaneously. The apparatus is provided with an electric motor without an increase in its size and cost, and this enables the user to perform effective exercises. The exercising apparatus (1) has left and right footboards (2L, 2R); an oscillation mechanism (10) for making the left and right footboards (2L, 2R) oscillate vertically about an oscillating spindle (27) provided on the front side of the left and right footboards (2L, 2R); a swing mechanism (11) for making the left and right footboards (2L, 2R) swing in a reciprocating fashion in the left-right direction with the boards (2L, 2R) maintained adjacent to each other, the boards (2L, 2R) swinging about a swing spindle (15) having a vertical axis; and an electric motor (12) for driving the oscillating mechanism (10) and the swing mechanism (11) simultaneously.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus is shown with a column attached atop a base. A junction box attached atop the column has emerging therefrom a plurality of shafts including a top shaft, a front shaft, and a pair of side shafts. One or more of the shafts offers resistance to rotation in either direction. Thus, a user can exercise by turning at least one of the plurality of shafts. For example, the top shaft can be rotated to simulate the workout associated with cranking a sailing winch. Alternatively, a crossbar attached through an arm to the front shaft can be used to rotate the front shaft during a workout. A pair of cranks may be attached to the side shafts and can be driven manually when the junction box is in a raised position, or pedally in a lowered position. In some cases the pair of pedals have substantially the same phase. Then, after separately securing a user's feet on different respective ones of the in-phase pedals, the user rotates the pedals in synchrony, by simultaneously pulling and then pushing pedally.

Abstract: An exercise device having a body extension mechanism including a press plate mechanism and an articulating seat structure. The press plate mechanism is pivotally connected to a frame forwardly of the articulating seat structure, which is also connected with the frame. The press plate mechanism is operably connected with the articulating seat structure by a transfer link so that when a user actuates the press plate mechanism, the movement of a back support of the articulating seat structure is coordinated with the movement of the press plate mechanism. Resistance for the exercise device is provided by a weight stack that is operably connected with the body extension mechanism through an arrangement of pulleys so that when the user actuates the press plate mechanism a portion of the weight stack is lifted.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprises an element for an application of a force by a user, a plurality of weights for countering the force applied on the element, which can be stacked on one another, a load regulator which in turn comprises a pulling bar, the pulling bar is able to slide in a longitudinal slot and can be associated with the weights and has a plurality of grooves along its longitudinal extension.

Abstract: An exercise machine composed of a frame, a first four bar linkage system, a second four bar linkage system, and a means for transferring an incident force from the legs of a user is disclosed. The first four bar linkage system is operably mounted on the frame and operably connects the transferring means to the frame to allow for back and forth movement of the transferring means along a path of travel about an instantaneously changing axis of rotation. The second four bar linkage system operably engages the first four bar linkage system. Either or both of the first four bar linkage system and the second four bar linkage system are operably connected to a resistance means, whereby the second four bar linkage system operates in conjunction with the first four bar linkage system and the resistance means to create a mechanical disadvantage to the user.

Abstract: A multi-purpose exercise apparatus used for linear and rotational resistance exercises with varying heights, diameters, angular ranges and planes. The apparatus relates to a frame (frame 430) and at least one carriage (300) supported by and movable on the frame. The carriage (300) supports at least one spooling force transmitter (102), and/or at least one translating force transmitter (101), which is connected to a resistance source (resistance source 494) through a flexible connector (476). The spooling force transmitter (102) is connected to a rigid arm (390) to which the user can apply rotational force against the spool and connected resistance. The spooling force transmitter (102) pivots on a positioning axis that is coincident with the longitudinal axis of the flexible connector (476) immediately before the connector attaches to the spooling force transmitter (101). The user can apply force to the translating force transmitter (101) to perform guided straight-line motions in a variety of directions.

Abstract: An exercise arm assembly for mounting on an exercise machine frame has a main arm, a swing arm, and a handle. The main arm has a first pivot connection to a frame of the machine for pivoting about a first pivot axis. The swing arm has a first end pivoted to the second end of the main arm for pivoting about a second pivot axis. The handle is pivoted to the swing arm for pivoting about a third pivot axis, with each pivot axis being perpendicular to the other two pivot axes to form a perpendicular, tri-pivot arm system.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing press exercises is provided. The exercise apparatus includes a frame and a support assembly adjustably coupled to the frame. A first press arm is coupled to the support assembly and is pivotal about a first pivot axis between a rest position and an extended position. A mechanism for add-on weights is further provided. The mechanism for add-on weights includes at least one add-on weight having a first region of contact and a second region of contact. The first region of contact can be defined by a selector pin hole in the add-on weight adapted to receive a selector pin. The selector pin engages the add-on weight approximately in line with the center of gravity of the add-on weight. The second region of contact can be provided by a stabilization bracket defining an aperture into which a stabilization pin on the add-on weight extends.

Abstract: An exercise arm assembly for mounting on an exercise machine frame has a main arm, a swing arm, and a handle. The main arm has a first end for pivoting on a frame of the machine to pivot about a first pivot axis. The swing arm has a first end pivoted to the second end of the main arm for pivoting about a second pivot axis. The handle is pivoted to the swing arm for pivoting about a third pivot axis, with each pivot axis being non-parallel to the other two pivot axes, and at least one pivot axis being non-perpendicular to the other two pivot axes.

Abstract: An isolation exercise machine for exercising one muscle group has a user support which is pivotally mounted on a main frame by a pivotal mounting system. A user engaging exercise arm is pivotally connected to the user support, and a connecting link links movement of the user exercise arm to movement in the user support. A load provides resistance to movement of the user support, exercise arm and/or connecting link. The pivotal mounting system is configured to place the user support seat in a relatively flat position in the rest or exercise start position and to recline and change the seat angle to an inclined position as the exercise arm is moved.

Abstract: This invention relates to gymnastic apparatuses and devices for gymnastic exercises, more specifically, to devices for the training of specific muscles, and can be used for musculature development and strengthening by means of exercises based on the overcoming of a counteracting force, for example, for gluteus training.

Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the calf muscles of a seated exerciser includes: a frame configured to rest on an underlying surface; a seat assembly mounted on the frame on which the exerciser sits; a movement arm pivotally interconnected with the frame forwardly of the seat assembly; a heel pad mounted on the frame forwardly of the seat assembly and configured to receive the heel of the exerciser; a trailing link pivotally attached to the movement arm; a foot engagement member attached to the trailing link such that the foot engagement member is positioned above and forwardly of the heel pad, the foot engagement member having an engagement surface configured to receive a portion of the sole of the foot of the exerciser; and a resistance-imparting unit interconnected with the movement arm.

Abstract: A chest press exercise machine has a self-aligning pivoting user support on a main frame and an exercise arm which is linked to the pivoting user support to translate movement of the exercise arm into movement of the user support. A user support pivot which may be a single pivot, floating pivot link, or four-bar pivot linkage arrangement pivotally connects the user support to the main frame. A connecting link is movably associated with the user engagement device or exercise arm and at least one of the main frame, user support, or user support pivot. The user support pivot is positioned so that part of the combined weight of the user and user support is positioned on both sides of the gravitational centerline throughout the exercise movement and a portion of the combined weight passes through the centerline to redistribute the weight as the exercise arm is moved.

Abstract: An exercise arm apparatus has a stationary frame, a first pivoting arm pivoted to the frame at a location intermediate its ends for rotation about a first pivot axis, a second pivoting arm pivotally connected to the frame for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced from the first pivot axis, and a connecting link pivotally connected to the first arm and second arm. The first arm is an exercise arm with handles at one end for gripping by a user, and the connecting link is of sufficient weight to form a counter-weight to counter-balance the first exercise arm into a rest position corresponding to a start position for an exercise movement. In one example the connecting link is a solid, elongate bar of heavy metal or equivalent material.

Abstract: Bidirectional resistance apparatus for exercise equipment are disclosed. An example exercise apparatus comprises a resistance source coupled to a cable between first and second ends of the cable, a rotational resistance mechanism coupled to the first and second ends of the cable, and an exercise arm coupled to the rotational resistance mechanism to rotate in first and second directions, the rotational resistance mechanism to apply a substantially constant resistance to the exercise arm when the exercise arm is rotated in the first and second directions.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for exercising multiple body parts comprises a frame 1 and a front user bearer assembly 2 which is angularly and height adjustable relative to the frame 1. The front bearer assembly 2 is mounted to a guide means for guiding upward and downward movement of the front bearer assembly 2. Compensating means to ensure that the front assembly travels in a substantially vertical plane during exercise comprises a number of support elements 50, 51 which are pivotally mounted.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus and an assembly method therefor have a resistance-bearing cable running along an extension arm and trained around a pulley for bearing resistance for an exercise routine. The pulley is swivelable about a swivel axis along a shank mounted to the arm by a bearing housing cartridge supporting and locating the shank and insertable into a hollow end of the extension arm along an insertion direction coincident with the extension axis and the swivel axis and supporting the pulley for swiveling about the swivel axis along the shank.

Abstract: A machine for training the muscles of a user's body, comprising a main body; a right-use and a left-use arm member extending from the main body at least higher than the user's hips; a right and a left rotational member, which are each established on the respective right-use and left-use arm members so that they freely rotate about and extend away from rotational central axes that extend toward the user; and a right and a left handle, which are each established on the respective right and left rotational members so that they freely rotate about handle central axes extending in a parallel direction to the respective rotational central axes; wherein the user can hold the handles with the user's respective right and left hands, and turn the rotational members, independently of each other, about the rotational central axes, for training the upper body of the user.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprises a frame, a pair of arms pivotally mounted to the frame so as to be rotatable about a first axis to perform exercise, a resistance element connected to the arms to provide resistance for performing exercise and a path adjustment mechanism to independently adjust the travel path of the arms. The path adjustment mechanism may comprise a pair of mounting brackets for pivotally connecting respective arms to the frame. Each mounting bracket rotates about a second axis to change the travel path of the corresponding arm.

Abstract: A portable exercise machine for performing upper extremity exercises including seated chest press, seated-row, seated triceps pull down, and modified seated abdominal crunches. It has two adjacent vertical pieces and one opposing taller vertical piece, each attached to a base member. It also has a pivoting member oriented in an operator-selected direction and an adjustable articulated arm bar with holes at various locations for handgrip attachment and adjustment according to operator stature for optimal user comfort during exercises. Mass resistance is secured by a filamentous member to the pivoting member and moved via pulley systems. The portable exercise machine provides functional body alignment and mimics the range of motion and type of movement needed for daily living, in activities such as but not limited to feeding and dressing. Most importantly, the present invention maximizes the productivity and efficiency of the user and the therapist in a rehabilitation setting.

Abstract: A triceps dip exercise machine has a main frame, a user support frame movably mounted on the frame, an exercise arm movably mounted on one of the frames, a connecting link connecting movement of the exercise arm to movement of the user support frame, such that movement of the exercise arm between a start and end position simultaneously moves the user support frame from a start to an end position, and an exercise resistance for resisting movement of one of the moving parts. The arrangement is such that the combined movement of the exercise arm and user support frame substantially replicates the natural movement of the upper part of the human body when performing a free bar, suspended triceps dip exercise.

Abstract: A handicapped accessible exercise apparatus having a central housing with two pivoting extension arms. Cables extend from weight stacks within the housing to movable cable guides on the arms for engagement by a user. By adjusting the positions of the arms and the cable guides, the apparatus can be configured to facilitate various exercises and to accommodate users of various sizes. The apparatus is provided with button-operated locks for allowing users with limited manual dexterity to easily lock and unlock the positions of the extension arms and the cable guides.

Abstract: A stand-alone exercise apparatus includes a seat to support a user in a position thereon, and upper and lower body exercising assemblies which are configured for activation either sequentially or simultaneously to permit the concurrent exercising movement of his or her upper body area and lower body leg muscles, respectively, without necessitating that the user stop exercising when switching from upper body exercises to lower body exercises. The lower body exercising assembly includes a lower frame assembly which is operable to provide resistance exercise to the user's leg muscles, and which includes a selectively reciprocally movable pedal, platform or bar which is coupled to a suitable resistance mechanism, and which is engageable by the user's feet and/or legs as they are moved together in unified movement to effect leg extensions or curls.

Abstract: An inner and outer thigh exercise apparatus has a framework, and a seat and backrest mounted on the framework. Right and left leg supports are pivotally mounted on the framework about spaced apart pivot shafts relative to the seat and are interconnected with one another so as to pivot simultaneously in opposite angular directions between start and finish positions. A resistance arrangement is operatively connected to the leg supports for imposing a resistive force on the leg supports during pivoting movement thereof between start and finish positions. A motion transfer assembly is controllably mounted for selective rotation about a single pivot axis on one of the leg supports for enabling changing of the start positions of the leg supports, and allowing the imposition of resistive force on the leg supports during pivoting movement of the leg supports between start and finish positions.

Abstract: This invention relates to an exercise machine having an exercise station that includes an exercise bench and one or more exercise implements for allowing a user to perform one or more exercises. An adjustable exercise mass assembly is oriented perpendicularly to the exercise station and includes a pivotal lever. An exercise mass is carried on the pivotal lever and is movable back and forth thereon towards and away from the pivot axis of the pivotal lever to adjust the exercise resistance provided by the exercise mass. The exercise mass preferably comprises at least one selectorized dumbbell. Portions of the dumbbell can be removed from the pivotal lever for use as a dumbbell while some of the weights of the selectorized dumbbell remain in place on the pivotal lever. This allows the mass provided by the selectorized dumbbell(s) to be simultaneously used by multiple users.

Abstract: An exercise arm assembly for mounting on an exercise machine frame has a main arm, a swing arm, and a handle. The main arm has a first end for pivoting on a frame of the machine to pivot about a first pivot axis. The swing arm has a first end pivoted to the second end of the main arm for pivoting about a second pivot axis. The handle is pivoted to the swing arm for pivoting about a third pivot axis, with each pivot axis being perpendicular to the other two pivot axes to form a perpendicular, tri-pivot arm system.

Abstract: A device for support and elevation of the lower extremities. More specifically, the invention is a leg elevator that provides calibrated, adjustable support for the upper leg, the lower leg and the foot. The leg elevator is adjustable to many different positions through the use of three independent adjustment mechanisms. The upper leg portion of the leg elevator can be adapted to accommodate people that have upper legs of various lengths. The height of the lower leg portion is also adjustable, and the relative angular position of the upper and lower leg can be varied from a generally flat position, to a substantially bent position. The invention can be used to provide elevation for either leg separately or for both legs simultaneously. The leg elevator is lightweight, easily disinfected, and can be collapsed to a relatively flat position for ease in transport and storage.

Abstract: There is provided an exercise machine in which resistance to movement of an actuation member, such as a handle, is provided and that resistance is able to be varied through the course of a single repetition of a series of repetitive exercises. The variation of resistance with distance along the movement path of the actuation member is, in a preferred embodiment, able to be changed by the selection and fitting of a component having a contoured surface, with which a follower means in the machine interacts to vary the resistance. There is also provided a multi-function exercise machine, that lends itself well to provision of the variable resistance feature.

Abstract: Exercise assemblies having apparatus that retain the feet of a user during an exercise are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, and a support assembly operatively positioned relative to the load and including a base assembly. A force-transferring assembly is operatively coupled between the load and an exercise station such that a training force applied to the exercise station induces an associated force on the load. A foot-retaining assembly is operatively coupled to the support assembly and includes at least one foot-retaining device defining a foot-retaining space configured to receive at least a portion of a foot of the user. The foot-retaining device prevents a vertical movement of the foot of the user during the exercise.

Abstract: A convertible leg exercise apparatus for performing different leg exercises has a first leg exercise arm pivotally mounted on a frame for rotation about a first pivot axis and a second leg exercise arm pivotally attached to the first arm for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced below the first pivot axis. The second arm pivots about the second pivot axis away from the first arm to perform one leg exercise, while the first and second arms pivot together about the first pivot axis to perform another leg exercise. The second arm may be configured to perform a leg press exercise while the first and second arms rotate together to perform leg extension and leg curl exercises.

Abstract: Exercise bench assemblies having wheels with integral brakes that automatically engage and disengage during use of the bench assembly are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise bench assembly includes a support portion, and a frame assembly coupled to the support portion. A wheel assembly is coupled to the frame assembly and includes at least one wheel configured to rollably engage a support surface, and a braking device operatively associated with the at least one wheel. The braking device is configured to engage the at least one wheel to prevent the at least one wheel from rolling on the support surface when a user's weight is applied to the support portion, and to disengage from the at least one wheel to allow the at least one wheel to roll on the support surface when the weight of the user is removed from the support portion.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus and methods having adjustable frame members are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, a support assembly, and a force transferring assembly. The support assembly includes a pair of outwardly extending frame members coupled to an upwardly projecting portion by a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly enables controllable adjustment of a height of the frame members. The force-transferring assembly includes first and second portions coupled to and extending at least partially along each of the outwardly extending frame members. During an exercise, a training force applied to the first and second portions induces an associated force on the load. The coupling assembly may permit an angle between the outwardly extending frame members to vary freely during an exercise, or may allow a user to controllably adjust and fix the angle during the exercise.

Abstract: Exercise assemblies having self-adjusting pad devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load and a force-transferring assembly operatively coupled between the load and at least one exercise station such that a training force applied to the at least one exercise station induces an associated force on the load. The at least one exercise station includes at least one pad member slideably coupled to a support member and configured to adjust to a lateral position along the support member corresponding to a portion of the user's body. The at least one pad member may have an attachment opening that includes a first portion sized to receive a shaft portion of the support member, and a second portion sized to receive a retaining portion of the support member, the retaining portion being larger than the shaft portion of the support member.

Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the muscles of the upper body, in which a pushing or pulling movement can be performed in a direction approxemalty between horizontal and vertical towards or away from the shoulder joint of the user, with the user seated in the same position.

Abstract: A triceps dip exercise machine has a main frame, a user support pivotally mounted on the frame, an exercise arm movably mounted on the frame, a connecting link connecting movement of the exercise arm to movement of the user support, such that movement of the exercise arm between a start and end position simultaneously moves the user support from a start to an end position, and an exercise resistance for resisting movement of one of the moving parts. The arrangement is such that the combined movement of the exercise arm and user support substantially replicates the natural movement of the upper part of the human body when performing a free bar, suspended triceps dip exercise.

Abstract: A shoulder press exercise machine has a main frame, a user support pivotally mounted on the frame for supporting a user in a seated position, at least one exercise arm movably mounted on the frame and movable between a start position in which handles are located in front of the shoulders of a user on the user support frame and an end position in which the handles are located above the head of the user. A connecting linkage connects movement of the exercise arm to movement of the user support, so that movement of the exercise arm from the start to the end position simultaneously rotates the user support. A load resists movement of at least one of the moving parts of the machine. The combined motion of the user, user support frame and exercise arm between the start and end position substantially replicates the natural movement of the upper part of a human body when performing a free weight shoulder press exercise.

Abstract: This squat exercise machine is comprised of a dynamic seat connected to a dynamic foot-plate where the weights are used to counter the weight of the exerciser and thereby assist him to raise himself from a squatting position to a starting sitting position. The squat exercise machine exercises the thigh muscles otherwise known as the quadriceps and the buttock muscles otherwise known as the gluteus group of muscles. At least one adjustable hand bar is positioned to aid entry to and exit from the machine and at least one handle to help to stabilize the user while exercising. A method for using the assisted squat exerciser is comprised of sitting on the dynamic seat, and with the aid of gravity, allowing the body to lower towards the floor whereupon the legs will be in a squatting position. With the aid of the weights, the thigh and gluteus muscles lift the seated body to its starting sitting position.

Abstract: This combined chest press and leg press exercise machine is comprised of an inclined seat with a weight resistance mechanism attached to handles and a foot-plate for providing adjustable resistance to arm and leg movement. At least one hand rail is positioned to aid entry to and exit from the machine and to stabilize the user while exercising. A method for using the chest and leg exercise machine is for the user to sit on the inclined seat, hold the weight resistance handles and place his feet on the weight resistance foot-plate. He then pushes with his hands, the said handles forwards, away from the direction of the user's body. Simultaneously, he pushes with his legs on the said foot-plate also away from the direction of the user's body. The said handles and the said foot-plate are then controllably returned to their starting position and the exercise is repeated as desired.

Abstract: This dorsal flex exercise machine is comprised of a static seat connected to the frame of the said machine. There is a foot-plate pivoted approximately under the position of the heel, when feet rest on the said foot-plate. The upholstered cylindrical lifting roller pads, one for each foot, are lifted by the upper side of the foot, lifting the said roller pads simultaneously. The said roller pads are adjustable vertically to fit the range of peoples' feet and shoe sizes. The dorsal flex exercise machine exercises the shin muscles otherwise known as the tibialis anterior muscles. The movement performed by use of this exercise machine is called the dorsal flex. At least one hand bar is positioned to aid entry to and exit from the machine and to stabilize the user while exercising.

Abstract: This rowing exercise machine is comprised of an inclined seat with a weight resistance mechanism attached to handles for providing adjustable resistance to hand and arm movement. At least one hand rail is positioned to aid entry to and exit from the machine and to stabilize the user while exercising. A method for using the rowing exercise machine is to lie on the inclined seat, hold onto the weight resistance handles and pull down the said handles towards the direction of the user's body. The handles are then controllably returned to their starting position and the exercise is repeated as desired.

Abstract: This multi-abdominal exercise machine is comprised of at least one foot-bar arranged to move up and down a vertical angular path for exercising the abdominal muscles otherwise known as the rectus abdominis. It is used in the sitting position. A controlled weight resistance mechanism is connected to the said foot-bar for providing adjustable resistance to movement. A seat that tilts up and down during the exercising movements together with and on the same axis as the foot-bar. At least one adjustable hand bar is positioned to aid entry to and exit from the machine and to stabilize the user while exercising. A dynamic back support is positioned to provide a contra, massage and stability while exercising. A method for using the abdominal exerciser is comprised of sitting on the dynamic seat, putting one's feet onto the foot-bar and lifting the knees towards the stomach. The said lifting causes the abdominal muscles to exercise, which effect is enhanced as the said seat moves.

Abstract: An exercise gymnasium is composed of a frame assembly, a movable pivot arm assembly carried by the frame assembly, and a press arm assembly carried by the pivot arm assembly. The press arm assembly includes an inverted U-press arm that includes a pair of press arms and is rotationally attached to the pivot arm. A pair of handles for hand grasping by a user is provided. Each of the press arms carries a track assembly affixed to the handles. Movement of hte handles is restricted to vertical movement by the track assemblies.

Abstract: An exercise arm assembly has a main arm with a central region having a first pivot connection for connection to a frame of an exercise machine to allow pivoting of the main arm about a primary pivot axis, a first swing arm pivoted to one end of the main arm for pivoting about a first swing arm pivot axis, and a second swing arm pivoted to the opposite end of the main arm for pivoting about a second swing arm pivot axis. Each swing arm has at least one handle spaced from the respective swing arm pivot axis for gripping by a user when performing exercises. The swing arm pivot axes are inclined inwardly towards one another to intersect at a location spaced below the first pivot axis, such that the swing arms automatically swing outwardly into an outward rest position when released.

Abstract: A squatting apparatus without spinal column compression, includes a platform for supporting feet of a person, a supporting structure at a height greater than that of said platform, a lever pivotally connected to said supporting structure by a hinge that allows vertical movement of the lower lever, the lower lever having an arrangement to support a weight load thereon, a cushioned backrest connected adjacent a front part of said lever to be supported on a lumbar-sacral region of the person, and handles for grasping by the person such that the person assumes a bent over position when the cushioned backrest is supported on the lumbar-sacral region of the person, without compressing shoulders or spinal column of the person.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprises an element for an application of a force by a user, a plurality of weights for countering the force applied on the element, which can be stacked on one another, a load regulator which in turn comprises a pulling bar, the pulling bar is able to slide in a longitudinal slot and can be associated with the weights and has a plurality of grooves along its longitudinal extension.

Abstract: An exercise arm apparatus has a stationary frame member, a first pivoting arm pivoted to the frame member at a location intermediate its ends for rotation about a first pivot axis, a second pivoting arm pivotally connected to the frame member for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced from the first pivot axis, and a connecting link pivotally connected to the first arm and second arm to form a four-bar linkage. The first arm is an exercise arm with handles at one end for gripping by a user, and the connecting link is of sufficient weight to form a counter-weight to counter-balance the first exercise arm into a rest position corresponding to a start position for an exercise movement. In one example the connecting link is a solid, elongate bar of heavy metal or equivalent material.

Abstract: A resistance exercise machine has a frame that includes a base on the floor and upright posts on the base. Resistance packs mounted for adjustment up and down on the posts are equipped with cams that compensate for the increased resistance resulting from increasing deformation of the resistance elements in the packs. The resistance packs are interconnected by teeth on their rims which allow the packs to be arranged in a stack. An adjustable bench and seat are provided. One alternative is a direct drive system having angularly adjustable levers. Another alternative has a fixed number of resistance packs that can be selectively activated to add resistance.

Abstract: Actuator assemblies for adjustment mechanisms of exercise machines. In one embodiment, an actuator assembly includes a connecting member having a first end attached to the adjustment mechanism and a second end, a shaft rotatably coupled to the exercise machine proximate the second end, an actuating handle attached to the shaft, and a coupling member attached to the second end of the connecting member and having an engagement portion contacting an actuating portion of the shaft. As the shaft is rotated, the actuating portion of the shaft pushes the engagement portion of the coupling member, tensioning the connecting member and actuating the adjustment mechanism. The actuator mechanism advantageously reduces wear and breakage of the connecting member. In another embodiment, the shaft may be rotated in either a forward or an aft direction, improving the convenience of the actuator assembly for the user.

Abstract: An exercising machine includes a base frame having two positioning plates each of which has equiangularly spaced locating holes, and two crank arms respectively pivoted to the positioning plates. Two dampers are respectively coupled to the crank arms to impart a damping resistance during operation of the crank arms. Two positioning members are respectively movably mounted on the crank arms for selectively engaging into the locating holes of the positioning plates to secure the crank arms at a desired angle. Two spring members are sleeved onto the positioning members for forcing the positioning members into engagement with the locating holes of the positioning plates. Two levers are respectively pivoted to the crank arms for operation by the user to pull the positioning members away from the locating holes of the positioning members through a respective traction member.

Abstract: Exercise machines for the leg muscles using separate machines for the biceps femoris and quadriceps and with the biceps femoris machines configured so that the muscle attachment below the knee is the “origin” and the muscle attachment on the upper leg and hip bone is the “insertion”.