Abstract: Convergent exercise machines and a method using resistance for exercising the upper torso and arm muscles, for complete natural joint articulation of shoulders, elbows and wrists. The circular exercise motion path is machine-determined and defined by a pair of exercise arms, each arm rotating about an arm pivot axle and having a handle assembly with a wrist joint accommodating pivot. The diameter of the circular exercise motion path is adjusted for the user's arm length. The method includes the following steps: defining the position of the arm pivot axle so that the machine-determined circular exercise motion path is coincident with the movement of the wrist joint accommodating pivot from start to finish of an exercise, and defining the position of the arm pivot axle to be located in a plane parallel to the plane positioned through the user's shoulder joints and at a lateral displacement from it, and at a location further into the exercise stroke than the parallel plane.

Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise device in which resistance curves can be selectively varied and controlled to achieve a desired positive resistance curve notwithstanding the degree of rotation of the exercise motion. Generally, the exercise device of the present invention comprises a support frame upon which a first shaft is rotatably supported. A user interface member (or exercise member) is connected to the first shaft such that when the user interface member is displaced by a user the first shaft is caused to rotate. A second shaft is also rotatably supported on the support frame. A torque arm assembly comprising of a plurality of torque arms is connected to the second shaft. Each of the plurality of torque arm is adapted to support a weight member thereon. A conversion mechanism connects the first and the second shafts to limit the degree of rotation of the second shaft in such a manner that the resistance generated by the torque arm assembly cannot result in a negative resistance force.

Abstract: An exercise machine having a frame structure, a seat member supported by the frame structure, and a resistance device. A leg member is operatively connected to the resistance device and pivotally connected to the frame structure for engagement by a user's legs when positioned within the seat member. A knee alignment support is positioned adjacent to the seat support and under the user's legs when positioned within the seat member. The knee alignment support being selectively positionable between a first in position for performing a first exercise and a second out position for performing a second exercise.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, a removable seat, and a shaft horizontally mounted on the frame, which rotates about its longitudinal axis. Attached to the shaft is at least one weight arm and at least one work arm. The work arm can be releasably connected and take multiple forms, each adapted for particular exercises. When an exerciser pulls or pushes on the work arm, the shaft rotates and carries the weight arm in an arc from a starting or first position to a second position. Because the weight arm travels in an arc, the resistance to the exerciser varies over the course of the exercise. Further, the starting or first position of the weight arm may be adjusted to change the starting resistance to the exerciser.

Abstract: A multiple exercise performance or positioning apparatus comprising a generally upright stationary frame on which is mounted an elongated arm mechanism which is mounted on a pivot mechanism, the arm mechanism extending from a proximal end to a distal end relative to the frame, the pivot mechanism enabling pivoting of the arm mechanism such that the distal end of the arm mechanism is adjustably movable between positions of variable distance away from the frame, wherein a cable mechanism is mounted around one or more pulleys, the cable mechanism having a first end interconnected to a handle mechanism which is mounted at the distal end of the elongated arm mechanism, the cable mechanism being interconnected to a weight resistance mechanism such that a user may grasp and pull the handle mechanism against an opposing force exerted by the weight resistance mechanism through the cable mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for counting the repetitions of various types of exercise machines 12. A permanent magnet 14 is attached to a movable member, e.g., a weight stack 16, of the exercise machine 12 selected so as to move within an acceptable distance of a magnetic sensor 18 positioned on a stationary member 20 of the exercise machine 12. The sensor 18 has means 28 having a power supply 34 for detecting the magnetic field 26 and displaying the repetition number on a visual display means 22. A reset button 30 is provided along with an alternative embodiment providing a timed reset 38. Also, an embodiment is described wherein a voice synthesizer 42 announces the number of the repetition in addition to having a display 22.

Abstract: A rotatable and pivotal exercise system for performing weight resistant training exercises comprising a support platform having a base and an integrated support structure for adding structural strength, integrity and stability to said support platform, a pair of pivotally attached resistance arms and a pivotal support device pivotally engaged with a pivot support base attached to said support platform for pivotally supporting an exerciser. The pivotal support device and system may be adapted to accommodate an exerciser performing weight resistant training in either sitting, standing or bench supported positions.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing exercises has a support frame and a seat mounted on the support frame. An exercise arm is pivoted adjacent the forward end of the seat for swinging back and forth in front of the apparatus. A load bearing cable is linked at the forward end of the arm. A leg engaging device is adjustably or rigidly attached to the arm for engagement by an exerciser's legs while performing different exercises. A handle can be releasably attached to the cable or to the exercise arm for performing upper body exercises.

Abstract: A exercise machine for providing an efficient total body work out. The exercise machine includes a base. A first vertical column attached to the middle of base. A second vertical column attached to the base. A guide column extends vertically from the base between the first and second columns. A set of foot pedals attached adjacent to the second column. A first set of two elongate bars is mounted to the first column. A second set of two elongate bars is mounted to the first column. Two solid tubes extend diametrically from a mounting and bend toward each other to a parallel position. A first pulley is attached to an apex of the second column, and the second pulley is attached to the first column. A plurality of the weights is housed on the guide column. The weights are removably coupled to the guide column. An anchor is linked to the pulleys by a cable. The anchor is made up of a first disc and a second disc. The cable is secured to the first disc and slides through the second disc.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, a seat adjustably mounted on the frame, and a rest attached to the frame rearwardly of the seat for supporting the upper torso of an exerciser. A lever arm assembly includes a pair of lever arms movably connected relative to the frame about at least one horizontal pivot shaft between a starting position and a finishing position, and structure is provided on the frame for resisting movement of the lever arm assembly. A conversion arrangement is connected between the frame and the lever arms for changing the starting position of the lever arms so as to provide for different exercise movements.

Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the lower limbs; comprising a seating unit for the user, means for supporting the user's feet, opposite to said seating unit, and a load unit operatively connected to said means for supporting the user's feet to exchange power with the user's legs, said means for supporting the user's feet being movable between a position longitudinally approached to said seating unit, and a position longitudinally removed from said seating unit. Said means for supporting the user's feet comprise a first and a second foot board for providing support for a respective foot of the user.

Abstract: A leg press exercise apparatus with composite motion movement combining a moving actuating member and a moving user support, the leg press having a support member, a frame on which the user support is located, the frame being pivotally connected to the support member, a truck in slidable engagement with the support member and the frame, an actuating member on which a push plate is located, the actuating member being pivotally connected to the support member and operatively connected to the truck, the actuating member being adapted to move between a first position and a second position, and a linking mechanism operatively connecting the actuating member the truck, wherein, when the user pushes the actuating member between the first position and the second position, the truck moves along rails on the support member, forcing the frame to pivot relative to the support member and causing the user to actuate a resistance weight, thus exercising certain of the user's muscles.

Abstract: In an exercise machine having at least one cable, lift shaft and weight stack, the weight stack including a plurality of weights extending vertically from lowermost weights to uppermost weights, the weights and lift shaft having corresponding apertures to permit the selection of weights lifted by a lifting bar, a restricted range weight selector system includes a plurality of differently-sized weight selector pins and the apertures in the weights and/or lift shaft being progressively sized, such that the range of weights that may be selected by a user is restricted depending on the size of selector pin in the user's possession.

Abstract: Operating an exercise device using a weight-lifting arm thrust delivered similar to execution of a martial art karate maneuver, as permitted by rotatably mounted hand grips, and to the end of increasing the weight of the exercise resistance to the arm thrust.

Abstract: A composite motion movement machine combining a moving actuating member and a moving user support, the composite motion movement machine having a support member, a frame on which the user support is located, the frame being pivotally connected to the support member, a truck in slidable engagement with the support member and the frame, an actuating member being pivotally connected to the support member and operatively connected to the truck, the actuating member being adapted to move between a first position and a second position, and a linking mechanism operatively connecting said actuating member with said truck, wherein, when the user moves the actuating member between the first position and the second position, the truck moves along rails on the support member, forcing the frame to pivot relative to the support member and causing the user to actuate a resistance weight, thus exercising, strengthening or rehabilitating certain of the user's muscles.

Abstract: A shoulder press exercise apparatus is provided. The shoulder press apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal upward pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing squat type exercises is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base supporting a resistance assembly and a pivoting user engaging assembly. A cable assembly links the user engaging assembly to the resistance assembly for applying resistance as a user performs an exercising routine. The user engaging assembly includes an upwardly extending post and a pivot arm secured to a free end of the upwardly extending post. The user engaging assembly further includes a locking assembly integrally associated with the pivot arm assembly for controlling the pivotal movement of the pivot arm.

Abstract: An exercise machine provides a pair of arms positionable for completing chest presses and also for doing a fly type exercise. On each arm a knuckle is hinged between two orthogonal sockets so as to enable positioning of the arms in appropriate positions for the two exercises. The exerciser may move the arms apart for fly exercise motion or to a position in front of the chest for a press exercise motion.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for testing the muscle strength of a subject wherein both static and dynamic strength tests are conducted on the subject during which forces exerted by the muscles are measured by devices which are connected to a computer and a display screen for displaying the strength of the muscles at different positions of a subject's body part. In the dynamic strength test, the subject moves a movement arm by exerting the muscles to be tested. The movement arm is connected to a resistance weight to oppose movement by the subject. In the static strength test, the movement arm is fixed in position and the subject exerts a body part against the movement arm upon exertion of the muscles to be tested. Force and angle measuring devices are connected to the movement arm and the computer for enabling the muscle strength to be displayed in terms of torque at various angular positions of the body part.

Abstract: An exercise device comprises a frame body, a plurality of pulleys mounted on the frame body, a weight set, a plurality of ropes which are connected at one end thereof with the weight set and run through the pulleys, and an embracing mechanism which is mounted on the frame body and is formed of two pivoting members, two suspension arms, and two driven members. The pivoting members are fastened pivotally with the flame body and connected with the suspension arms. The driven members are pivoted between the pivoting members and the frame body and fastened with the free ends of the ropes and the pivoting members. When the suspension arms are exerted on by an external force, the suspension arms turn back and forth in a horizontal direction to bring about an embracing exercise. The suspension arms can be forced to turn in a vertical direction and stopped at a position to enable an exerciser to adjust the distance between the two suspension arms.

Abstract: A weight lifting machine is useful for developing muscles used in arm wrestling. The weight lifting machines comprises a carrier that rotates about an axis of rotation. Pivotable levers are connected to the carrier symmetrical about the axis of rotation. A cord hangs from each lever. The cords join into a single cord that holds a weight so as to produce equal and opposite torques on the carrier. A person exerts a force on the carrier sufficient to overcome one of the torques and thereby rotate the carrier. By pivoting the levers the cords hang at different distances from the carrier axis of rotation, thereby changing the amount of torque produced on the carrier by the weight and the amount of force the person must exert to rotate the carrier. A block on the carrier contacts the cord during carrier rotation in a manner that results in a smooth and continuous resistance by the weight on the person's arm.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus for strengthening the arm, shoulder, and back muscles. A weight bearing bar capable of holding free weights is moved through a path as the user draws a pair of elongate handles over the front of the body. As the weight bearing bar is moved, the moment arm of the weight is reduced, thereby reducing the effort required to draw the elongate levers downward as the leverage of the user's muscles declines. The elongate handles are mounted to a moveable assembly which is rotatable over a limited range and also is pivotable toward the user. The apparatus may be placed in a storage position when use is complete.

Abstract: A load selector, in particular for an exercise machine in which a load to be used in an exercise is variable and is determined by a value of a sum of a plurality of weight elements which are associated, through related fastening elements, to a tugging element comprising a rod kinematically connected to appropriate connectors able to exert a force by a user; the weight elements can be stacked on top of one another and present corresponding holed portions able to define a channel for the rod, the rod presents, along its own longitudinal development, i.e.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a base structure having a resistance assembly and a user support member is disclosed. The apparatus further includes a first user interface pivotally mounted to the base structure for rotation about a first axis at a position allowing an exerciser to comfortably sit upon the user support member, extend a leg and engage the first user interface. The first user interface includes a distal end to which a foot plate is secured and a central pivot which rotates about a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The apparatus also includes a cable linking the first user interface to the resistance assembly for the application of resistance as the user rotates the first user interface by extending a foot to exercise the user's calf muscle.

Abstract: A weight lifting machine is useful for developing muscles used in arm wrestling. The weight lifting machines comprises a carrier that rotates about an axis of rotation. Pivotable levers are connected to the carrier symmetrical about the axis of rotation. A cord hangs from each lever. The cords join into a single cord that holds a weight so as to produce equal and opposite torques on the carrier. A person exerts a force on the carrier sufficient to overcome one of the torques and thereby rotate the carrier. By pivoting the levers the cords hang at different distances from the carrier axis of rotation, thereby changing the amount of torque produced on the carrier by the weight and the amount of force the person must exert to rotate the carrier. A block on the carrier contacts the cord during carrier rotation in a manner that results in a smooth and continuous resistance by the weight on the person's arm.

Abstract: An exercise device for the hands, wrists and forearms comprising an externally threaded, vertically oriented inner post member and an outer sleeve member coaxially mounted thereon in a rotatable and telescoping manner, where the outer sleeve supports a number of interchangeable weight disks and the outer sleeve member is raised and lowered relative to the inner post member by rotation of the outer sleeve member. Outer sleeve member is connected to an internally threaded bearing nut containing a plural number of ball bearings, the ball bearings being retained by external threading on said inner post member.

Abstract: An incline press exercise apparatus is provided. The incline press apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: In a convertible user manipulated force resisting apparatus an articulated frame includes a base and a weight carrying member supported thereon for movement between an active position wherein the weight carrying member extends upwardly, and an inactive position wherein said weight carrying member is generally horizontally disposed relative to the base. The weight carrying member can be releasably retained in the active position by a pin or other means. A plurality of discreet weights are releasably secured to the weight carrying member for reciprocal motion relative thereto. A bench is coupled to the frame adjacent to the weight carrying member for movement between a first position substantially perpendicular to the weight carrying member when in the active position, and a second position approximately parallel to the weight carrying member when in the inactive position. Various mechanisms are provided for selectively moving at least one of weights between a lowered and a raised position.

Abstract: A chest press exercise apparatus is provided. The chest press apparatus includes a selectable eight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal upward pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: An exercise device has a support frame and a lever arm attached to the support frame and pivotably movable between a rest position, wherein the lever arm hangs downwardly and an extended position, wherein the lever arm is pivoted relative to its rest position. A range of motion (ROM) device is rigidly attached to the lever arm, and pivots with the lever arm. The orientation of the ROM device relative to the lever arm can be selectively varied. A tackle is attached to the ROM device to provide an opposing force to motion of the lever arm from the rest position to the extended position. The tackle also includes a substantially taut cable that is connected to a mass.

Abstract: An improved press arm allows an operator to perform either a traditional straight chest press exercise or to incorporate "butterfly" motion during the performance of the chest press exercise. A main arm is pivotally coupled to the frame of the exercise machine at a main pivot in the same manner as conventional press arms. The main arm includes a cross-beam to which a pair of handle arms are pivotally coupled at secondary pivots. The axes of the secondary pivots are orthogonal to the axis of the main pivot and are inclined with respect to vertical when the press arm is in a rest position. This inclination causes the handle arms to assume a natural rest position under the influence of gravity. The rest positions of the handle arms place the press arm handles at a comfortable starting position for performance of a press exercise. Stops to limit the inward or outward travel of the handle arms are not necessary.

Abstract: A pull down apparatus is provided. The pull down apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal upward pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: An apparatus for exercising the lower back muscles of a user includes a frame, an arrangement mounted to the frame for resisting forward movement of the user's hips while maintaining the user's gluteus maximus and hamstring muscles in a relatively relaxed condition, a lever assembly mounted to the frame in a disposition for engagement by the upper back of a user for backward and forward user induced movement of the lever assembly for exercise of the user's lower back muscles and a resistance assembly operatively connected to the lever assembly for resisting the user induced exercise movement with a predetermined resistive force.

Abstract: An arm curl exercise apparatus is provided. The arm curl exercise apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and an inpact lever mechanisms operatively connected thereto. A pair of four bar linkage mechanisms are connected to the free end of the input lever. A pair of handles are rotationally connected to the forward most bar component of the four-bar linkage mechanisms such that the handles follow the same pivoting movement as the forward most bar component, when the four bar linkage mechanisms are pivoted. When utilizing the rotatably mounted handles the user is able to maintain the proper biomechanical alignment of the joints while choosing from a variety of grips. The paths through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear upwardly converging and downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal arm curl motion as possible.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a support frame and a bench press assembly rotatably mounted on the support frame. The bench press assembly includes a yoke having a central portion pivotally linked to the frame for swinging movement about a first pivot axis, and opposite side portions, a biassing load linked to the yoke for resisting movement about the first axis, and a pair of handle arms each pivotally connected to a respective one of the yoke side portions for independent articulation. Each handle arm has a handle at each end and is connected to the yoke at a location intermediate the ends of the handle arm.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus that enables a person to perform a variety of different exercises. The exercise apparatus has a frame structure that includes a plurality of vertical columns. A bench assembly is supported by at least one of the vertical columns at a variable angle of inclination. A weight holder also is coupled to at least one of the vertical columns, wherein the weight holder is free to move in a vertical direction along the length of the column. In addition to the bench assembly, at least one exercise mechanism is coupled to the frame structure. Each exercise mechanism includes an element that is pivotably coupled to the frame structure. A pulley is connected to each element at a point a predetermined distance from the pivot point. Additional pulleys are mounted on the frame structure, thereby forming an overall pulley arrangement. A cable extends through the pulley arrangement including the pulleys on the exercise mechanisms.

Abstract: A lumbar exercise machine having an adjustable pad assembly for engaging the legs above and below the knees while the legs extend generally forward with the feet against a foot rest and the knees bent so that the thighs and calves form an obtuse angle. A lock mechanism is provided to secure the pad assembly in the aforementioned position with the femurs restrained against movement so that the hips, buttocks and thighs cannot move during the exercise. The exerciser then moves his back against a movement arm in opposition to a resistance mechanism connected to the movement arm. The machine is adjustable to properly position a particular user for the exercise. One machine for home use utilizes dead weights plus the user's weight as the resistance mechanism while another machine for commercial use utilizes a compound weight stack as the resistance mechanism.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a support frame and a press arm assembly rotatably mounted on the support frame. The press arm assembly includes a yoke with opposite side portions and first and second elongate swing arms each linked to the first and second side portions of the yoke, respectively. Each swing arm has at least one handle at one end for selective gripping by a user to perform different exercises. A three-dimensional pivot assembly links each swing arm to the respective yoke side portion to permit the swing arm to rotate in and out, up and down, and to pivot about its own axis to vary the handle orientation, so that the user can readily select any desired orientation of the swing arm and handle for performing press and fly exercises.

Abstract: A chest press exercise apparatus is provided. The chest press apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal upward pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: An incline press exercise apparatus is provided. The incline press apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: In a weight lifting exercise apparatus, a leg exercise station is provided. A leg exercise arm carrying leg engaging roller pads is pivotally mounted on a frame member of the support frame of the apparatus, and is linked to an exercise resistance such as a weight stack. An upper roller pad assembly is pivotally mounted on the frame member adjacent the leg exercise arm, and is freely movable between a down position engaging behind a user's knees for performing leg extension exercises, and a raised position resting on top of the user's thighs when performing leg curls or pull down exercises.

Abstract: The invention is an exercise device which creates a controlled and infinitely variable resistance profile using a pair of rods that are wrapped about a common axis with a varying pitch. A slide unit is attached to the rods with rollers. When the slide unit is moved in a linear motion, the movement of the rollers on the rods causes the rods, and a shaft on which they are mounted to rotate. In one embodiment, the rotation of the shaft is used to move one or more units of a set of stacked weights. In a second embodiment, a rotation motion of the shaft on which the rods are mounted, causes a linear motion to the slide unit which is attached to a set of stacked weighs.

Abstract: A shoulder press exercise apparatus is provided. The shoulder press apparatus includes a selectable weight mechanism and a support member which pivotably supports a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms are pivotably mounted at their rearward ends about axes which are disposed at an angle relative to a horizontal plane, i.e. are tilted relative to vertical, such that a pair of elongated bars of the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel in planes which are tilted relative to vertical. The tilted planes through which the four-bar linkage mechanisms travel enable the handles to travel along a slightly curvilinear downwardly diverging path which simulates as natural a human musculoskeletal upward pushing motion as possible.

Abstract: An exercise machine has an exercise arm with which an operator can perform either press exercises or a seated row exercise from a single seat. The exercise arm has a main arm that is pivotally coupled to the frame of the exercise machine at a main pivot. In an embodiment where the main pivot is above the exercise machine, the main arm has a pair of arm members that depend downwardly to either side of the exercise position. A pair of handle arms are pivotally coupled to the lower ends of respective members of the main arm. To perform press exercises, the handle arms are positioned so as to extend forwardly from the main arm members. While seated in the exercise position, an operator can perform shoulder press, incline press, chest press and decline press exercises. To perform a seated row exercise, the handle arms are positioned to extend rearwardly from the main arm members and the operator sits in the exercise position facing rearwardly, using the backrest of the seat as a chest cushion.

Abstract: An exercise machine has a frame, a seat and a pair of exercise arm assemblies. Each of the exercise arm assemblies is pivotally attached to the frame. Handles at the outer extremities of the arm assemblies are gripped by the user to perform the intended exercise. The geometry of the arms and their pivot points is arranged so that the handles of the assemblies follow arcuate paths which converge as the handles are moved forwardly. At a starting position for a press exercise, the handles are approximately in line with the shoulders of the user. As the handles are pushed forwardly against an exercise resistance, they converge inwardly until they are nearly touching when the user's arms are fully outstretched. The machine may also be used to perform a seated-row exercise, in which case the handles are pulled rearwardly against the exercise resistance.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing exercises has a support frame and a seat mounted on the support frame. An exercise arm is pivoted adjacent the forward end of the seat for swinging back and forth in front of the seat, and has a curved portion which curves forwardly in a direction away from the seat. A pulley to which a load bearing cable is secured is mounted at the curved forward end of the arm. A pair of leg engaging roller pads are adjustably or rigidly attached to the arm for engagement by an exerciser's legs while performing different exercises. A handle can be releasably attached to the cable or to the exercise arm for performing upper body exercises.

Abstract: A multi-station exercise apparatus for use during a leg exercise routine during which the user lies in a supine position and bends his legs at the knees and waist between extended-leg and bent-leg conditions includes a frame and a bench and utilizes two pairs of movable stirrups arranged generally above the bench at opposite ends thereof. The stirrups are adapted to accept the feet of the user as the user lies upon the bench in the supine position and to move with the feet as the legs of the user are bent at the knees and waist between extended-leg and bent-leg conditions. The frame includes two sets of guide rods disposed at each of the opposite ends of the bench for guiding the movement of the two pairs of stirrups generally upwardly and downwardly along predetermined paths as the user selectively moves either the first or second pair of the stirrups with his feet as the feet are moved between the bent-leg and extended-leg conditions.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a seat assembly mounted on a frame, an overhead exercise station is located above the seat assembly, a leg exercise station is located forward of the seat assembly. The frame includes a base portion below the seat assembly and a hollow tubular strut extending upwardly form a forward end of the base portion and spaced forwardly of the seat assembly. A roller pad is adjustably mounted in an open upper end of the hollow strut so as to be positionable behind the knees of a seated user when performing leg exercises and above the user's legs when performing overhead exercises.

Abstract: A machine for exercising and/or testing the lumbar muscles including a movement arm mounted for rotational movement about a generally horizontal axis against a resistance provided by a weight stack. Movement of the movement arm is transmitted to the weight stack by means of a transmission including a cam fixed to the movement arm, a pulley belt fixed to the periphery of the cam and trained about one or more pulleys mounted with respect to the stationary frame of the machine. The pulley belt is connected to an actuating lever connected to the weight stack pin to drive the same. One of the pulleys is mounted for movement towards and away from the pulley belt to increase or decrease tension in the pulley belt to thus control the drive between the movement arm and the weight stack.

Abstract: A compact weight lifting machine includes a lift bar assembly including a lift cable and a lift bar which operates through the lift cable to lift selected weights from a weight stack responsive to either upward or downward movement of the lift bar. A seat assembly is positioned beneath the lift bar and includes first and second sections selectively positionable to support a user to perform a variety of exercises. A leg extension/leg curl mechanism located at one end of the seat assembly and a butterfly mechanism located at the opposite end of the seat assembly also operate through the lift cable to lift selected weights from the weight stack.