Bar Held By Single Hand Of User (e.g., Dumbbell, Etc.) Patents (Class 482/108)
  • Patent number: 6171221
    Abstract: A pair of extension bars join together in forming a tubular clamp having a raised wall surface, with the extension bars having angularly adjustable stirrups through which the arms of the user pass in grasping onto a pair of handle members, with one extension bar having a spring actuated finger pull to latch onto the raised wall in closing the tubular clamp in coupling to a weight bar, or in separating the tubular clamp when proceeding to couple to a different weight bar. The distance from the handle member to the clamp affords a lever action to increase resistance range without increasing any weight being exercised with, as well as working muscle at lower ranges of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Michael C. Hayduk
  • Patent number: 6152862
    Abstract: A hand-held drink dispenser has a main housing (1) and a parallel second housing (4) that is a handle. Both are attached to a base plate (7) and covered with a funneled cap (13) having a funnel spout (14) that is sized and shaped to fit in a user's mouth to funnel liquid from a plurality of reservoirs (2, 5) in the main housing and in the second housing. A cushiony support (15) between the handle and the main housing helps hold the dispenser in order to relax holding grip for allowing the user to concentrate on physical activities and other concerns. Separate reservoirs prevent sloshing of the liquid and provide measured output from each of a pair of left-hand and right-hand units while also allowing balance of weight of liquid in each hand. Weight-attachment (16) and item-attachment (18, 19, 20) means are optional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: John R. Hobbs
  • Patent number: 6149558
    Abstract: A dumbbell is adjustable in weight and essentially composed of a carrying seat, a plurality of weighted blocks, and a selection device. The carrying seat has two parallel plates and a plurality of rods fastened between the two parallel plates. The plates are provided at the top of the outer side thereof with two hooked portions. The weighted blocks have a main body which is provided with two connection portions. The connection portions of the weighted blocks are located at various levels to enable the weighted blocks to be held together side by side such that the hooked portions of the plates are engaged with the connection portions of the weighted blocks contiguous to the two plates. The selection device is mounted on the carrying seat for enabling selectively a predetermined number of the weighted blocks to be coupled with the carrying seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 6149556
    Abstract: A multilevel dumbbell support apparatus is disclosed having a base, a pair of front vertical supports and a pair of rear vertical supports, wherein the front vertical supports are connected to the rear vertical supports and all of the vertical supports are rigidly mounted to the base, thereby forming a single frame structure that is adapted for use with a weight lifting bench. The multilevel dumbbell support apparatus incorporates one or more dumbbell supports adjustably connected to the front vertical supports. Each dumbbell support comprises a front lip portion, a flat portion, and a rear inclined portion, wherein the front lip portion and the flat portion have an opening cut therein to accommodate a lifter's hand when grasping a dumbbell disposed thereon. The front lip portion has a height that is low enough so as to not interfere with a lifter racking a dumbbell, but high enough so as to store a dumbbell on the flat portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Duke M. Jordan
  • Patent number: 6142918
    Abstract: A barbell system includes a grip having an axial length and an axial bore with a diameter and planar end faces and a contoured exterior surface. The contoured exterior surface has a maximum diameter at its radial central plane and at its ends and a minimum diameter at its radial intermediate planes symmetrically positioned between the central plane and the ends. The exterior surface is formed with three circumferentially positioned regions around the periphery to form flat ovals. The central ovals are all located in three planes 120 degrees from each other with a major axis parallel with the axis of the grip and shaft and a minor axis transverse to the axis of the grip and shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Ping Liu
  • Patent number: 6132345
    Abstract: An exercise dumbbell includes a handle having a first weight member releasably coupled thereto. In addition, a first light structure is releasably coupled to the handle adjacent the first weight member such that the light member securely couples the weight member to the handle. The first light structure includes a light source house within a fluorescent lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventors: Karen Torpey Beierschmitt, Christine M. Torpey, Richard E. Plowman
  • Patent number: 6132344
    Abstract: A slide-on protector cap for dumbbells is disclosed. Such protector cap comprises a hexagonal protector member for each weight of a dumbbell. The cap includes six generally rectangular planar plates coupled together in a cylindrical cross-sectional configuration corresponding to the cross-sectional configuration of an associated weight which it is adapted to cover and protect. Each rectangular plate is adapted to be removably slidably positioned over the rectangular planar faces of the associated weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: James Vanderbleek
  • Patent number: 6123651
    Abstract: The invention provides an exemplary barbell holder and methods for its use. In an exemplary embodiment, a barbell holder comprises a base member having at least one region that is adapted to hold a weight. A coupling mechanism is operably attached to the base member. The coupling mechanism is adapted to removably couple a barbell to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Ultima Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Howard S. Ellenburg
  • Patent number: 6120420
    Abstract: An exercise device having weighted heads is disclosed. The weighted heads are composed of a light shell with a heavy core. The combination of a durable but light shell material with a denser core material results in weighted heads with reduced bulk. The reduced bulk improves the user's control of the device during use, reduces anatomical stress to the users arms and hands, and allows the user to lift a greater amount of weight while maintaining control of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Mass Production, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce E. Pearson, Philip E. Hoggard
  • Patent number: 6099442
    Abstract: An exercise dumbbell includes a handle and pairs of weights disposed on opposite sides of the handle and maintained in spaced relationship relative thereto. At least one latch is movable into and out of engagement with the weights to prevent movement of the weights in a first direction. At least one spring is connected to the at least one latch and operable in a second, discrete direction to encourage the latch to remain engaged with the weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6099441
    Abstract: The water weight exercise kit includes two weights, a funnel for filling the weights with water, and a storage pouch. Both of the weights are bags or bladders made from a strong, flexible thermoplastic material and have a fill spout through which the weights may be filled with water for use and drained after use. One of the weights is a barbell-like weight, having the capacity for receiving about fifty pounds of water and having a handle with a neoprene grip which extends from both sides of the top of the weight. The second weight is a dumbbell-like weight, having the capacity for receiving about ten pounds of water and having a handle with a neoprene grip at the top of the weight. The funnel is a clear flexible plastic hose having a clear, flexible conical spout, the hose being adapted for insertion into the fill spouts of the weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Darrell B. Bonnet
  • Patent number: 6099443
    Abstract: An improved dumbbell having a bar with permanently and securely attached weighted heads is disclosed. A pin passing through a bore in the weighted heads and each end of the bar holds the weighted heads securely in place. The weighted heads have a circumference of circular shape, and are coated with a resilient material. The exterior surface of the resilient material has a multi-sided circumference. The circular shape of the circumference of the weighted heads prevents the weighted heads from digging into the resilient coating when the dumbbell is in use or is dropped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Hampton Fitness Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Craig D. Landfair
  • Patent number: 6083144
    Abstract: An exercise weight system for providing an adjustable exercise resistance or mass comprises a plurality of individual weights. Each weight includes two spaced plates joined in a rigid manner by at least one interconnecting member. The weights can be nested together in a horizontal weight stack such that a connecting pin inserted through the weight stack can select one or more weights for use as the exercise mass. In one embodiment, the interconnecting member is a channel having overlying front and back walls. A plurality of sets of aligned holes and slots are placed in these walls with each set having a uniquely different hole and slot arrangement. The pin can be inserted through any one set of holes and slots to couple a desired number of weights together for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Intellbell, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl K. Towley, III, Gregory S. Olson
  • Patent number: 6059700
    Abstract: The invention provides an exemplary barbell system and methods for its use and construction. The barbell system comprises a handle having a pair of ends, and a pair of end pieces which are receivable into each of the ends. The end pieces are adapted to couple a weight to the handle. A releasable coupling mechanism is provided at each of the ends to releasably couple each end piece to the handle. Further, a locking mechanism is provided and is receivable about the handle to lock the coupling mechanism in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Ultima Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Howard S. Ellenburg
  • Patent number: 6039678
    Abstract: A dumbbell system including at least one dumbbell having a handle bar being a tube with an internal thread with a stop plate abutting each end of the handle bar. Each stop plate has a central aperture such that the interior passage of said tube opens up through each stop plate. A threaded shaft screws into each end of the tube through the respective stop plate. Weight plates, each having a slot are stacked onto the threaded shaft and when the threaded shaft is screwed into the tube, the knob end of the shaft tightens the weight stack against the stop plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Fredric O. Dawson
  • Patent number: 6033350
    Abstract: Weights are disposed on opposite sides of a base member, and selector rods are selectively moved into engagement with the desired number of weights on each side of the base member. The resulting adjustable resistance assembly may be used on dumbbells and/or weight stacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6014078
    Abstract: A monitoring system is provided for detecting and identifying weight lifting implements placed on a weight lifting storage device, such as a rack. In the event the implements are placed in improper locations on the storage device, the monitoring system is operative to generate an error signal, which may be in the form of an audible or visual signal to signal the person replacing the implement that he or she is returning the implement to an improper location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Iron Grip Barbell Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Rojas, Scott J. Frasco
  • Patent number: 6001049
    Abstract: A light weight exercise apparatus includes a support including a first part extending along a portion of the lower arm of the user and a second part extending from the first part and having first and second portions. The first portion is an outwardly curved portion for supporting the wrist and hand of the user and the second portion is a portion extending downward and outward from the first portion to form a retaining portion for further supporting and substantially surrounding the hand of the user. The retaining portion further includes a grip portion attached to and extending across the width of the retaining portion to be gripped by the hand of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Mark P. Frey
  • Patent number: 5971339
    Abstract: A hanging apparatus (10) for a dumbbell (12) of the type having a straight cylindrical bar (14), a sleeve (16) on the straight cylindrical bar (14) and weights (18) at opposite ends. The hanging apparatus (10) comprises a frame (20) having a hook (22) at a first end. A structure (24) is for attaching a second end of the frame (20) to the straight cylindrical bar (14) of a dumbbell (12). The hook (22) will suspend the dumbbell (12) from a support shaft (26), enabling a person (28) using the dumbbell (12) not to reach down to a floor to pick up the dumbbell (12) and lower the dumbbell (12) back to the floor upon completion of a workout. These movements would put undue strain on forearm (30) and elbow joint ligaments and can cause severe damage to the entire arm muscles, tendons and tissues of the person (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Leo A Falasco, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5971899
    Abstract: An exercise weight system for providing an adjustable exercise resistance or mass comprises a plurality of individual weights. Each weight includes two spaced plates joined in a rigid manner by at least one interconnecting member. The weights can be nested together in a horizontal weight stack such that a connecting pin inserted through the weight stack can select one or more weights for use as the exercise mass. In one embodiment, the interconnecting member is a channel having overlying front and back walls. A plurality of sets of aligned holes and slots are placed in these walls with each set having a uniquely different hole and slot arrangement. The pin can be inserted through any one set of holes and slots to couple a desired number of weights together for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Intellbell, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl K. Towley, III, Gregory S. Olson
  • Patent number: 5967949
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided having (a) an axle unit convertible into a hammer type exercising device, (b) an adjustable stand (c) a resistance unit attached to the axle unit, and a detachable handle elements. The axle unit is rotatably and releasably attached to the adjustable stand for permitting rotation of the axle unit about a horizontal axis. The resistance unit is attached to the axle unit for biasing the axle unit in a given position. The handle elements are attached to the axle unit for permitting the user to forcibly counter the bias provided by the resistance unit to permit exercise of the upper body. The axle unit is removable from the resistance unit and the adjustable stand, and may be converted into dumb bell or to a hammer, and by utilization of the resistance unit may be converted to a wrist roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Michael D. Davenport
  • Patent number: 5967952
    Abstract: A portable aquatic/land weight training system and method comprises a plurality of collapsible weight chamber members. Each of the collapsible weight chamber members includes a pair of flexible end members joined by first and second flexible band members forming a water- and air-tight chamber. The first band member forms an opening through the collapsible weight chamber member. The opening has a diameter D so as to pass a bar therethrough. Each weight chamber has a water valve and water valve closure member for filling the weight member with water and an air valve and air valve closure member for filling the weight chamber member with air. Each weight chamber member has a peripheral edge and the water valve is located near the peripheral edge of the weight chamber member so that the water valve closure member and the peripheral edge can be grasped by a pair of fingers to close the water valve to sealing relation without significant expulsion of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventors: Laurie Bronstein, Holly Ann Firuta
  • Patent number: 5954619
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in the storing of a dumbbell in position for presentation to a user at a desired height of the dumbbell for commencement of an exercise routine. The apparatus includes an upright standard and a sleeve slidably mounted on the standard and positionable at different heights from the floor. A pair of cradles are hingedly mounted to the sleeve for movement between a dumbbell presentation attitude and an out-of-the-way attitude. The cradles are spaced apart from one another and each is designed to receive therein one end of a dumbbell with the bar member of the dumbbell spanning the open space between the cradles and in position to be grasped by the user's hand inserted into the open space. The cradles are biased toward an upward and inward position toward the standard where they are out of the way of the user performing their exercise routine. Likewise, there may be substituted closed end bores in the standard for the through openings depicted and described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Charles M. Petrone
  • Patent number: 5935049
    Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating abdominal exercise (10) which includes a frame (12) having a central portion (20) between left (14) and right (16) hand engaging portions, the left (14) and right (16) hand engaging portions extending forward from the central portion (20), the central portion and the left and right hand engaging portions being essentially co-planar. A receptacle (18) is attached to the central portion, the receptacle (18) having a concave back of a head receiving portion (50) and an elongate groove neck receiving portion (52) extending from the back of the head receiving portion (50), the receptacle (18) extending transverse the plane of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: LongBall Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack L. Hamm
  • Patent number: 5911651
    Abstract: A dumbbell is composed of a grip rod and a plurality of weight containers which are fastened with both ends of the grip rod. The weight containers are provided with a connection protrusion, a connection slot opposite in location to the connection protrusion and engageable with the connection protrusion of another one of the weight containers, thereby enabling a plurality of weight containers to be fastened hand in hand with one end of the grip rod. The weight containers are provided with a receiving space for holding water or sand of a specific weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Chang-Fu Liu
  • Patent number: 5910070
    Abstract: A hand-held transceiver (48) remotely controls a device (24) that is electrically coupled to a receiver (44) capable of receiving an electromagnetic transmission (46) and generating a first electrical signal (52) in response thereto. The device is controlled by the first electrical signal received from the receiver. The transceiver includes a body (56) configured to be hand-held by the person and a housing (43) to house a switch (50) that generates a second electrical signal in response to actuation of the switch. A transmitter (49) is also contained in the housing and is electrically connected to the switch for receiving the second electrical signal. In response thereto, the transmitter generates an electromagnetic transmission for receipt by the receiver (44) to in turn control the device. A weight (62) is couplable to the body for weighting the transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventors: George F. Henry, James S. Birrell
  • Patent number: 5888180
    Abstract: A weight lifting support and cushion device for attachment to a user's hand and a hand grippable portion of an exercise device, such as, for example, an exercise or weight lifting bar. This weight lifting support and cushion device includes two double overlay straps, a prop brace, a recoil tip, foundational connector, and a split cushion support system. The device could be worn on either the left or the right hand of the user; and in instances where both hands are required to grip the exercise device, a weight lifting support and cushion device will be worn on both hands. The two double overlay straps are secured to the prop brace on their first ends and extend substantially parallel until they converge at the recoil tip. The foundational connector has looped ends through which a double overlay strap is inserted so that the double overlay straps together slide freely within the looped ends of the foundational connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Bishop A. Dewberry
  • Patent number: 5879274
    Abstract: A dumbbell assembly (10) includes a pair of receptacles (12, 14, 60, 82) which are containers adapted to receive and secure weighted plates (28). The receptacles (12, 14, 60, 82) are integrally molded or rigidly secured to opposite ends of a handle bar (18, 88). In one embodiment, the handle bar (18) includes a tube (24) housing at least one spring (16) and a pair of shafts. The spring (16) biases a push platter (46) away from the tube (24) and toward an outer end (36) of the receptacle (12). The weighted plates (28) are admitted into the receptacles through apertures in sidewalls thereof and retained between the spring-biased push platter (46) and the outer end 36 of the receptacle 12. In another embodiment, each end of a handle bar (88) is integrally molded or rigidly secured to a receptacle (82), which is a grooved solid shell with mated first and second portions (90, 92).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: E. Michael Mattox
  • Patent number: 5871423
    Abstract: A motorized dumbbell attached to a power source for use in exercising a muscle group of a user. The motorized dumbbell includes a handle and a weight section connected thereto. The weight section includes a base connected to the handle and a skirt extending from the base to form a cup shaped recess. A cover is positioned on a side of the skirt opposite the base to close the cup shaped recess. A motor is positioned within the cup shaped recess and connected to receive power from the power source and a disk is rotatably connected to the motor wherein the disk is caused to rotate by the motor when power is applied to thereto by the power source. Movement of the motorized dumbbell when the disk is rotating produces an inertia and gyroscopic forces which act to increase the resistance applied to the muscles group being exercised by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Inventor: Zbigniew Pruchnik
  • Patent number: 5868653
    Abstract: A barbell includes a substantially tubular-shaped barbell bar enclosing a device for causing the barbell bar to vibrate, weights attached to each end of the barbell bar and a damping material interposed between the barbell bar and the weights. The damping material prevents the weights from being subject to the vibrations. As a result, vibrations are transmitted to the muscles used for lowering and raising the barbell bar thereby reducing the time expended to train and the tendency to develop a cramp. Furthermore, because the weights are disconnected from the vibrations, the stability of the barbell weight and training arm is not disturbed and the energy consumption of the motor remains low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Heinz Klasen
  • Patent number: 5865348
    Abstract: A device for exercise and self-protection comprising a combination of hand-weights and a canister of pepper spray. The device includes a hollow handle with two openings, one for the thumb of a user and one for the spray from a canister of pepper spray inserted within the hollow handle. The device further includes threaded ends for accommodating a set of real or fake weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: David D. Harding
    Inventor: David D. Harding
  • Patent number: 5863251
    Abstract: A self-defense device comprises a longitudinally extending shaft having a main striking knob located at one end and an alternate striking knob located at the other end, with a hooking and pressing knob disposed on a surface of the device nearest the main striking knob, and a key ring carrying portion located on an opposing surface adjacent the main striking knob. A pair of holes is provided at an intermediate portion of the device for receiving a loop to facilitate holding and using of the device. In one mode of use, the device is held so that the alternate striking knob is positioned in the palm of the hand of the user; in a second mode of use, the device is held so that a portion of the device between the main striking knob and the hooking and pressing knob is positioned in the web of the hand between the thumb and the index finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Mark L. Fusco
  • Patent number: 5857946
    Abstract: A variable resistance refillable exercise apparatus includes a generally hollow container having an outer surface and an interior volume, top and bottom generally bulbous end sections and a reduced circumference waist section between the end sections such that the container is generally dumbbell-shaped. A container fill opening is formed in the container extending between the outer surface and interior volume for filling the container with fluids and/or solids, and a cap is provided for removably sealing the container fill opening. A handle extends between and connects the top and bottom generally bulbous end sections, the handle including a gripping device such as finger-shaped depressions for facilitating gripping of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Claudia D. Brown
  • Patent number: 5839997
    Abstract: A weight-lifting apparatus includes a plurality of weights each having a central hole and a slot extending from the central hole to a perimeter of the associated weight, the slot having a width less than the diameter of the central hole. The apparatus further includes a shaft having opposing ends defining a diameter about equal to the central holes, and a sleeve positioned on the shaft. The shaft is shaped to rotatably engage the central holes and is rotatable to different positions. The shaft further has a plurality of recessed surfaces on the opposing ends corresponding to the different positions that extend different longitudinal lengths, the recessed surfaces defining with other surfaces on the shaft a reduced dimension about equal to the width of the slot. Further, the shaft and the weights are configured so that by rotating the shaft, the recessed surfaces are selectively positioned to allow the shaft to slide along one or more of the slots, thus selectively releasing the weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Premise Group LLC
    Inventors: Mark R. Roth, Jon D. Schiff, Thomas M. Truran
  • Patent number: 5839461
    Abstract: A protective apparatus for walkers, hikers, and others incorporating a section containing a switchable combination alarm and incapacitating defensive fluid and incorporating a socket for attachment of a camera or lanyard, a storage section, a battery and electrical alarm section incorporating a socket for attachment of an optional walking stick and in a second variation a handle for use as part of a walking cane and in a third variation, an electrical prodding device in place of the storage section and contact points for the electrical prodding device extending from the battery and alarm section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Harvey F. Lambeth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5823922
    Abstract: A dumbbell made of heavy material has a central bar, weight knobs at opposite ends of the bar and a guard-handle spaced from the bar a distance to allow the insertion of a user's fingers between the guard-handle and the bar, the bar, weight knobs, and guard-handle being one piece. Preferably, the dumbbell is made of cast iron and coated with a resilient coating. In another embodiment, the guard handle has a center span with a long reach and a short reach, spaced axially from one another to define a belt-receiving gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Sportworks Ltd.
    Inventor: James A. Eckmann
  • Patent number: 5792035
    Abstract: An exercise device for doing crunches that has a frame that includes a head rest support to support the back of the head, two wings extending outwardly from opposite sides of the head rest support and a torso support. The wings each accommodate stacking of weights. The head rest support and the torso support cooperate with each other to stabilize the relative position of the head and neck by preventing their relative movement with respect to the upper torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventors: John C. Ward, Paul S. Biondi
  • Patent number: 5779604
    Abstract: An adjustable dumbbell (10) includes a central handle (22) which can be selectively connected to one or more outer weights (24) by means of a selector pin (26). The outer weights (24) are arranged in a nested symmetrical stack which provides for a compact construction and storage of the unused weights at the same time. The adjustable dumbbell (10) is also incrementally adjustable, and may be used either in conjunction with or as a substitute for a conventional weight stack in an exercise machine. Two additional embodiments (120 and 130) are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Intellbell Ventures
    Inventors: Carl K. Towley, III, Gregory S. Olson
  • Patent number: 5769762
    Abstract: An exercise weight system for providing an adjustable exercise resistance or mass comprises a plurality of individual weights. Each weight includes two spaced plates joined in a rigid manner by at least one interconnecting member. The weights can be nested together in a horizontal weight stack such that a connecting pin inserted through the weight stack can select one or more weights for use as the exercise mass. In one embodiment, the interconnecting member is a channel having overlying front and back walls. A plurality of sets of aligned holes and slots are placed in these walls with each set having a uniquely different hole and slot arrangement. The pin can be inserted through any one set of holes and slots to couple a desired number of weights together for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Intellbell, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl K. Towley, III, Gregory S. Olson
  • Patent number: 5741206
    Abstract: A weight device which is cross-sectionally contoured to fit particular portions of an exerciser's body, the weight device being further longitudinally curved or radiused along first and second sides and includes a circular opening in the center and a pair of diametrically opposed, elongated openings disposed parallel to one another and equidistant from the circular opening so that the fingers and thumb of a human hand may be disposed through the openings for sufficient gripping of the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher Anastasi
  • Patent number: 5735777
    Abstract: An adaptive weight device for supplementing the weight to be moved using standard exercise weight equipment. The adaptive weight device includes a weight component fabricated into a shape essentially conforming to the shape of the standard equipment to which it is removably attached. The device is removably attached to the standard weight equipment by a plurality of small magnets equally spaced on the side of the weight component that interfaces with the weight equipment. The magnets are positioned within retention seats of the weight component wherein so that they are either flush with the surface of the weight component or so that they extend slightly beyond that surface. The adaptive weight device of the present invention may be used with bar-mounted as well as stand-alone weight equipment. In either case the attachment design of the adaptive weight device ensures a balanced load when the device is added to the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Kenneth J. Benoit
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Benoit, John Li
  • Patent number: 5716306
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for assisting a person to safely do free weight lifting exercises without the aid of a human assistant. The apparatus is comprised of a pair of vertical cables secured at their upper ends to an overhead support structure, such structure dependent on the physical environment at the apparatus location, e.g. ceiling beams and trusses, weightlifting frames. The lower ends of the cables are not secured. A pair of clamp assemblies telescope over the cables and the weight bar is secured to the clamp assemblies. A control bar, parallel, above and proximate to the weight bar, connects to clamp assemblies. The control bar causes the clamp assemblies to grip and release the cables. When doing an exercise, the user squeezes the control bar towards the weight bar to release the cables. To terminate the exercise the user releases the control bar which in turn causes the clamp assemblies to grip the cables and therefore support the weight bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Sherman Gallay
  • Patent number: 5709635
    Abstract: Similar paired exercise hand weights provide one hand weight of the pair with a self-defense spray dispensing container carried therein. Each hand weight provides an elongate tubular body having enlarged end portions and defining an internal channel to optionally contain a self-defense spray container and weights. Annular bands encircling the upper and lower portions of the cylindrical body fasten the end portions of an elastic fastening band that stretches over the body for positioning over the back of a user's hand to aid positional maintenance of the weight on the hand. A resilient covering about the cylindrical body provides an improved gripping surface and greater comfort for gripping. Each hand weight has at least one removable end cap for access to the body channel and the hand weight that embodies a self-defense spray container has a removable end cap that defines a passageway for the operative mechanism of a defense spray container and an orifice for exit of self-defense spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: Hyak Corporation
    Inventor: Steven W. Denison
  • Patent number: 5692996
    Abstract: The sculpted weight was designed for use in a weight lifting routine developed by the inventor. The weight facilitates: 1) the doing of "new" weight lifting exercises 2) the doing of traditional weight lifting exercises. Further, it's unique design encourages the user to experiment and be creative while exercising (12). The exercise routine developed by the inventor encompasses an aerobic weight lifting circuit which includes a rotational arm and shoulder exercise as well as more traditional weight lifting exercises. To facilitate the routine the weight is elliptically shaped (12). Further, the weight curves simultaneously in two directions at once (26) (28); has two hand holes for gripping (12); has a center hole for cupping the head in exercises like sit-ups and as a means for storage (16). The unique shape of the weight allows it to conform to the body when necessary and remain aerodynamically comfortable and balanced when in use and in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Widerman
  • Patent number: 5653666
    Abstract: A negative resistance weightlifting apparatus suitable for use with, among other things, a weight in the form of a separate barbell, in which means under the direct control of the user controllably produces a negative resistance effect by pressing down with an adjustable force on the weight as it is being lowered and preferably positively disengaging itself from the weight when the latter is being lifted, safety means being provided to adjustably limit the weight locations where such force can be applied and to automatically release the excess downward force when the weight has achieved a predetermined and adjustable lower position, all to produce weight lifting and lowering excercises of maximum efficiency and effectiveness while at the same time protecting the user against accidents and any unfortunate consequences arising from temporary physical weakening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventor: James T. Pantoleon
  • Patent number: 5651758
    Abstract: A device for supporting dumbbells that have a bar with two ends and a weight mounted on each end. The device is used to suspend the dumbbell from a hook mounted at the top of a vertically extending post. The device includes two parallel elongated arm members that have each first and second sends with a connecting member mounted at one end of each. This connecting member is received by a hook at the uppermost end of a vertically extending post. The second ends form bays that receive the bar of the dumbbell, and a locking assembly is provided to keep the bar in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Juan C. Cervantes
  • Patent number: 5637059
    Abstract: An exercise bench has a platform with a bracket extending thereunder. Two substantially tubular legs extend thereunder and rotate about separate axles. Pins are connected to two arms which in turn are connected to a torsion bar to urge the pins into registration with apertures or support surfaces of the legs. A handle is connected to the two arms for operation by the user to move the pins and adjust the leg positions. Free weights are attached to one of the legs for use in the performance of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Dalebout
  • Patent number: 5637064
    Abstract: An adjustable dumbbell (10) includes a central handle (22) which can be selectively connected to one or more outer weights (24) by means of a selector pin (26). The outer weights (24) are arranged in a nested symmetrical stack which provides for a compact construction and storage of the unused weights at the same time. The adjustable dumbbell (10) is also incrementally adjustable, and may be used either in conjunction with or as a substitute for a conventional weight stack in an exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Intellbell Ventures
    Inventors: Gregory S. Olson, Carl K. Towley, III
  • Patent number: 5628716
    Abstract: A body building or therapy adjustable weight exercise device for use in strengthening hands, arms, chests and neck of a person using the same, wherein it is either a barbell or dumbbell including a central bar section to be gripped by a hand or hands with equal poundage weights at each end of the bar, and weights holding-locking means to affix the weights to the central bar and auxiliary disk weights capable of being removably mounted on the holding-locking means to alter the total weight of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: John P. Brice
  • Patent number: 5620112
    Abstract: An exercise beverage vessel comprising a central, cylindrically shaped, hollow grip portion; a first, second, third and fourth cylindrical shaped, hollow disk member integrally formed with the grip portion to form a barbell shaped drinking vessel; a weight housing in connection with the third disk member having a weight chamber formed therein that is accessible through a fill aperture and having at least one transparent viewing portion of a size sufficient to allow a viewer to view a weight increasing agent level within the weight chamber; a plug member sized to frictionally fit within the fill aperture; and a hinged cap member, hingedly attached to the fourth disk member with a hinge mechanism, having a pivoting cover portion of a size sufficient to cover a drinking opening formed in the fourth disk member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Gary I. Brown