About A Horizontal Axis Patents (Class 482/137)
  • Patent number: 8029424
    Abstract: A training machine for strength training and rehabilitation includes: a machine frame, a weight carrying frame, a weight package carried by the weight carrying frame, pull or press elements which are turnably provided on the machine frame and which are arranged to be moved backwards and forwards while a selected pre-determined number of weights in the weight package is arranged to be turned about a first axis, alternatively, by connection elements connected to the pull or press elements, and drive members to lift weights by a first force and to lower the weights by a second force, the first force being less than the second force, the weight carrying frame being turnable on the machine frame about a substantially horizontal second axis and the first and second axes being substantially perpendicular to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Mats Thulin
  • Patent number: 8007414
    Abstract: An exercise machine to train the hamstring group of muscles including a base, said base being formed of frame members, a knee rest provided upon the base, a frame member extending rearwardly supporting a cross support, whereby the exerciser rests upon the kneel rest and places his/her ankles under the ankle support, a vertical framework pivotally mounted to the base, the upper end of the vertical framework including a chest support, while various weights may be attached to the proximate bottom of the vertical framework to regulate the amount of stress exerted upon the user while exercising upon the exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Dennis P. Riney, Brady Joseph Mattingly
  • Patent number: 8007422
    Abstract: A device for an exercise machine comprising a base, forming at least one substantially flat supporting surface, at least one resistant load connected to the base, at least one seat for a user, being positioned in front of the supporting surface, connected to the base in such a way that it can move from a forward position to a back position relative to the supporting surface, the seat being connected to the resistant load for performing an exercise; the device being characterized in that it comprises at least one footplate which can be selectively connected to the base at the supporting surface by removable supporting means, at least one actuator portion connected to the supporting means being designated to generate a vibration for the footplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Technogym S.p.A.
    Inventor: Leo Zaccherini
  • Patent number: 7993251
    Abstract: A pectoral fly exercise machine which is designed for performing exercises similar to a free weight pectoral fly exercise has a stationary main frame, a user support frame pivotally mounted on the main frame, a user engagement device or exercise arm assembly pivotally mounted on one of the frames for engagement by the user in performing a pectoral fly exercise, and a connecting link which links movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support frame. A load resists movement of one of the moving parts of the machine. The user support frame has an exercise start position which supports a user's body in a slightly rearward reclined position, and movement of the user engagement device to perform a pec fly exercise moves the user support from the start position to an end position in which a user's body is in a more rearwardly reclined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7981010
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support movably mounted relative to the main frame for movement between a start position and an end position during an exercise. At least one multi-function user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the frames for engagement and actuation by a user during an exercise, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support. The user engagement device has two different modes of operation selectable by a user for performing different exercises which exercise distinct muscles or muscle groups. A load provides resistance for both exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7951054
    Abstract: A therapeutic and/or exercise apparatus is provided for use in connection with structured, multiaxial, multi-pattern movement that aids in rehabilitation or enhances conditioning. The apparatus generally includes a base and a posture bar that is attached to and extends upwardly from the base. The posture bar is affixed to a top surface of the base and can be removable or collapsible for ease of storage. The top surface of the base also includes a recess therein for receiving one of a variety of controlled motion devices such as a rotary disk that moves freely or is restrained by resistance means or other proprioceptive tools. This feature provides a much more balanced exercise process while also naturally working the entire set of muscle groups related to the exercise rather than simply isolating a single motion or muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Lifting Up Life, LP
    Inventors: Donna Snow, Robert Ayres
  • Patent number: 7938760
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support movably mounted relative to the main frame for movement between a start position and an end position during an exercise. At least one user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the main frame for engagement and actuation by a user during an exercise, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support. A lifting arm is movably mounted relative to the main frame and associated with at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage so as to move during an exercise. A load associated with the lifting arm provides exercise resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7935038
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a rocker and a weight bearing frame pivotally interconnected with the rocker. The rocker and weight bearing frame are each pivotally mounted on a support frame or base. The weight bearing frame opposes movement of the rocker when the rocker moves in one direction and assists movement of the rocker when the rocker moves in another direction. The rocker can move from an upright orientation to a second orientation in which the rocker is canted below horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy Tyree
  • Patent number: 7922620
    Abstract: An exercising machine for exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, including an exercising attachment for exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, a computer-controlled resistance actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a resistance for concentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion, a computer-controlled force actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion, a computer for controlling the actuators and a method for exercising, including imparting a resistance for concentric exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion and imparting a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Center of Rotational Exercise, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Scott Douglas, John D. Webb, Alexis D. Webb
  • Patent number: 7901337
    Abstract: An arm exercise machine for performing isolation exercises has a self-aligning pivoting seat or user support on a main frame and an exercise arm for performing biceps curl and/or triceps extension exercises which is linked to the pivoting user support to translate movement of the exercise arm into movement of the user support. The user support is pivotally mounted on the main frame so as to automatically align in order to maintain positioning of the user throughout the exercise motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7867149
    Abstract: A swiveling user support assembly has a user support or seat rotatably mounted on a user support mounting device or frame for rotation about a first pivot axis, while the mounting device or frame is pivotally or rigidly connected to a main frame of an exercise machine. The user support has a base, and a primary user support and stabilizing device mounted on the base. A pivot connection between the base and mounting device or frame allows the user support to swivel from side to side about the first pivot axis. A centering mechanism helps to orient the user support in a central position for user entry or exit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7867153
    Abstract: A gymnastic machine (1) includes a first frame (10), a first support member (22) carried by the first frame (10) by means of a guiding device (20) to be movable along at least one given direction (D), the first support member (22) being shaped to be interfaced with a first body region of a user and a bearing member (30) being rotatably supported by the first frame (10) around an axis (32) transverse to the given direction (D), the bearing member (30) being shaped to be interfaced to a second body region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Technogym S.p.A.
    Inventors: Maurizio Roman, Leo Zaccherini
  • Patent number: 7862490
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a reactant force generating mechanism and a force application device. The force application device is coupled to the force input structure of the reactant force generating mechanism and is configured for transmitting force generated by a user to the force input structure. At least a portion of the force application device protrudes from within an opening in the force input structure. The force application device includes a non-compliant base portion, a compliant outer shell coupled to the base portion and pressure displaceable material contained within an interior space of the compliant outer shell. The force application device allows the user-generate force to be transmitted through the pressure displaceable material and exerted on the reactant force generating mechanism of the exercise machine so as to cause the force input structure to exert a proportional reactant force on the force application device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Sean Glynn
  • Patent number: 7837604
    Abstract: A training machine includes a seat assembly, a loading device, and a positioning device. The seat assembly includes a transverse main tube fitted to an elongated rail of the loading device. The seat assembly is provided with rollers to help the seat assembly having a smooth movement on the rail. The positioning device is able to fix the seat assembly to any desired position of the rail of the loading device. The present invention further provides a swinging device with two handles to be operated by users for arm training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Gee Hoo Fztec Corp.
    Inventor: Ching-Lu Hsu
  • Patent number: 7806813
    Abstract: An exercise machine in one embodiment includes a frame, a pivot arm, an adapter mounted on the pivot arm to adjust between various adapter positions, and an operator engagement device mounted on the adapter to adjust between various engagement device positions. The adapter is typically telescopically mounted on the pivot arm to extend and retract along a first axis about which the adapter is also rotatable. The engagement device is typically telescopically mounted on the adapter to extend and retract along a second axis which is transverse to the first axis and about which the engagement device is rotatable. The embodiments may include a pivotal connection between the pivot arm and a generally T-shaped handle for positioning the handle and for enhancing the use of the handle. Handle extenders may be included to lengthen a typical T-shaped handle. Unique cable and pulley configurations are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Frank A. Campitelli
  • Patent number: 7794376
    Abstract: An abdominal muscle exercise machine that generally contains a diagonal member with an adjustable seat and a backrest and a pivot member that pivots with respect to the diagonal member. A chest push can be mechanically coupled to the pivot member through an adjustable force multiplier. An optional counterweight can be placed near one end of the pivot member to lighten the force, or an optional load weight can be placed near the other end of the pivot member to increase the force. The pivot member can be constructed to telescope or otherwise adjust for different body sizes. The machine provides a smooth exercise where the top and bottom portions of the body move together in a linked fashion. The machine of the present invention works without heavy external weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Body Solid, Inc.
    Inventor: Cheng I. Chou
  • Patent number: 7794372
    Abstract: A leg press machine has a floor engaging main frame, a user support pivot, a user support assembly pivotally mounted on the main frame via the user support pivot, and a pivotally mounted exercise arm assembly having a main exercise arm and a user engaging footplate. A connecting link, which may be a direct connection between the user support and exercise arm, translates movement of the exercise arm assembly to movement of the user support assembly so that pivotal movement in the exercise arm assembly results in a self-aligning, pivoting movement of the user support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7785238
    Abstract: A training machine for strength training and rehabilitation comprising has pull or press devices, which are arranged to be moved backwards and forwards while a pre-determined number of weights in a weight package is arranged to be lifted and lowered, alternatively, by a connection, and a device to lift said pre-determined number of weights in a continuous movement by a first user intended powered force against said pull or press device and to lower said pre-determined number of weights by a second user intended powered force against said pull or press devices. The first power being less than the second power. The training machine comprises a frame carrying the weights and along which the weights are slidable and which is turnably journalled about a substantially horizontal turning axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Mats Thulin
  • Patent number: 7780584
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising a chair attachment assembly adapted for attachment to a chair at a location under a seat of the chair and configured to extend outwardly therefrom. A pair of leg supports are pivotally coupled at first ends thereof to a pivot point on the chair attachment assembly. Each leg support is independently moveable between a contracted position and an extended position. A leg holder is coupled to each leg support near a second end thereof. A resistance element is pivotally coupled between each leg support and the chair attachment assembly. Each resistance element is configured to provide resistance against both outward movement of the associated leg support from the contracted position to the extended position and inward movement of the associated leg support from the extended position to the contracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Jim Alexander
  • Patent number: 7771323
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a leg exercise arm assembly pivotally attached to a frame or user support assembly. A user can perform leg extension exercises and leg curl exercises with the leg exercise arm assembly. The exercise apparatus also includes a wrist roller assembly that is also pivotally attached to the user support assembly, frame, or leg exercise arm assembly. The wrist roller assembly can be locked into at least one storage position that allows a user to perform leg extension and leg curl exercises without interference from the wrist roller assembly and locked into at least one use position that allows a user to perform wrist rolling exercises. The wrist roller assembly includes a flexible line that can be connected to a high station free flexible line end, a mid section free flexible line end, or a low section free flexible line end based on the ratio of resistance desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Roger Batca
  • Patent number: 7771322
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a leg exercise arm assembly pivotally attached to a frame or user support assembly. A user can perform leg extension exercises and/or leg curl exercises with the leg exercise arm assembly. The exercise apparatus also includes a wrist roller assembly that is also pivotally attached to the user support assembly, frame, or leg exercise arm assembly. The wrist roller assembly can be locked into a first position that allows the user to perform leg extension and leg curl exercises without interference from the wrist roller assembly and a second position that allows a user to perform wrist rolling exercises. A flexible line interconnects the leg exercise arm assembly with the wrist roller assembly as well as connecting the leg exercise arm assembly and the wrist roller assembly directly or indirectly with a resistance element. The flexible line maintains a substantially constant tension whether the wrist roller assembly is locked into a first position or into a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Roger Batca
  • Publication number: 20100190621
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided which comprises a base configured to support the exercise device, an arcuate path extending from to the base, a limb support configured to receive a limb of a user and which moves along the arcuate path, and a resistance member attachable to the limb support and configured to provide resistance against movement of the limb support along the arcuate path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Dennis D. Palmer
  • Patent number: 7749143
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Patent number: 7736283
    Abstract: A weight exercise machine may include an exercise member, one or more weights, and one or more weight selectors. When using the machine to exercise, the user exerts an exercise force against the exercise member. A weight selector may be rotated, pivoted, or otherwise moved to operably couple the exercise member to at least one of the weights such that displacement of the exercise member causes at least one of the weights to displace, thus providing resistance to displacement of the exercise member. The weights may include main weights and add-on weights for operative coupling to the exercise member via a movable frame. The one or more weight selectors allow for selection of different combinations of weights for providing resistance to displacement of the exercise member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory M. Webb
  • Publication number: 20100144500
    Abstract: A gym machine comprising a ground resting base, a structure for supporting a user which is associated with the resting base so that it can rotate about a rotation axis, at least one maneuvering body which is associated movably with the supporting structure and flexible elements which are stretched between the maneuvering body and the ground resting base, the supporting structure rotating about the rotation axis between a first configuration and a second configuration when a user supported by the structure moves the maneuvering body, applying to the maneuvering body an action which is opposite with respect to the action applied thereto by the flexible elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Vincenzo Canali
  • Patent number: 7731643
    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 approximately between horizontal and vertical towards or away from the shoulder joint of the user, with the user seated in the same position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: John James Harrison
  • Patent number: 7717833
    Abstract: Disclosed are adjustable exercise machines, apparatuses, and systems. The disclosed machines, apparatuses, and systems typically include an adjustable, reversible mechanism that utilizes pivoting arms and a floating pulley. The disclosed machines, apparatuses, and systems typically are configured for performing pushing and pulling exercises and may provide for converging and diverging motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Westin W. Nelson, Lee M. Atwood, Aaron J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7717832
    Abstract: A shoulder press exercise machine has a main frame, a user support frame movably mounted on the frame for supporting a user in an exercise ready position, at least one exercise arm movably mounted on one of the frames 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 frame, so that movement of the exercise arm from the start to the end position simultaneously moves the user support frame. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7695416
    Abstract: A device for increasing the range of motion of a patient's knee joint generally includes a frame, a lever member pivotally coupled to the frame at a first location, and an actuator pivotally coupled to the frame at a second location. The frame supports the patient in a manner that allows motion of the patient's knee joint, and the lever member bears against a portion of the patient's body below the knee joint. The actuator is also pivotally coupled to the lever member. When operated by a controller, the actuator generates a translational input that rotates the lever member relative to the frame and thereby stretches the patient's knee joint in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Jay John Weiner
  • Patent number: 7691038
    Abstract: The invention concerns a convertible gym training device intended to be removably connected to a weight-training device that permits training of lower and upper body limbs. According to the invention, such a convertible gym training device in particular comprises: an essentially quadrangular frame (1014); an arm actuator (107) rotatably connected to the said frame (1014); resilient return means (40) opposing a force against the rotation of the said arm actuator (107) relatively to the said frame (1014); mechanical link means (400) connecting the said arm actuator (107) with the said resilient return means (40), said mechanical link means (400) being designed to oppose a variable back moving force against the said arm actuator (107), all along its rotation travel, said back moving force being variable according to a predetermined load curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Stuart Laurence Shearer
  • Patent number: 7678032
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed having a base, an longitudinally extending bottom member rail directed generally transverse to the base, and an upright support. The exercise apparatus also has a lever arm, including an exercise bar, that is connected to the upright support and pivotable thereabout. The lever arm of the exercise apparatus is movable to a folded stage adjacent the upright support, and the bottom rail is movable toward the upright support to a folded stage, adjacent the folded lever arm in the folded stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Roman Footnick
  • Patent number: 7678033
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a rocker pivotally attached to a base. Pins are attached to the bottom of the rocker. Pins are attached to the base. Tensioned elastic members each extend from a pin in the base to a pin attached to the bottom of the rocker. The elastic members assist or oppose each other depending on the position of the rocker. The elastic members function to rotate the rocker in different directions when the rocker is pivoted to different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy Tyree
  • Patent number: 7666123
    Abstract: The subject invention provides an upper body exercise machine with increased joint range of motion along with more consistently applied torque to the joint throughout the entire range of exercise. The exercise machine includes dual axis, dual hinge mechanisms enabling a user emulate the natural biomechanical motion associated with free weights, while maintaining the stability of an exercise machine and providing more consistent loading than free weights. The dual axis, dual hinge mechanisms permit the handles to be independently or in combination moved longitudinally and laterally in a relationship selected by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Cybex International, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond Giannelli
  • Patent number: 7662075
    Abstract: The squat machine of the present invention includes a base having opposite sides, a stationary foot plate fixed on the base, a pair of frames each pivotally mounted to respective sides of the base, and a back rest pivotally mounted to the frames so that the frames and back rests are moveable between an initial squat position and an extended position. The back rest is oriented at approximately a 45°-60° angle in the squat position and moves toward a substantially horizontal orientation in the extended position. In use, with proportional foot platement on the foot plate, the user's knees remain behind their toes throughout full range of motion through the hips during movement of the back rest so as to minimize risk of knee shear. The orientation of the back rest minimizes risk of spinal compression during use of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Conner Athletic Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry H. Isom
  • Patent number: 7658701
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise apparatus is provided that includes at least a lower carriage, an upper carriage, and a frame supporting the lower and upper carriages. A linkage mechanism operably associates the upper and lower carriages together to allow coordinated movement relative to one another. The upper carriage includes an upper pivot axis relative to the frame, and an upper carriage pivot axis relative to the upper carriage, and the lower carriage includes a lower pivot axis relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Roxanne C. Anders
  • Publication number: 20100016135
    Abstract: A device for exercising the abdominal and other core muscles of a user comprises a rotatable base having a central opening therein, and a bar removably insertable into the opening. The bar may comprise two or more separable segments and may have provide for the attachment and removal of weights to provide resistance to a user. Also disclosed is a method of exercising using such a device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Angela Sales, Bruce Coody
  • Patent number: 7614985
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Urs Mosimann, Ulrich Schweizer, Vicente Morcillo-Quintero, Victor Pertegaz-Esteban
  • Patent number: 7594881
    Abstract: Weight bench having a horizontally extending seat, an upstanding post at one end of the seat, a swinging arm pivotally connected to the upper portion of the post for movement between raised and lowered positions, a pair of leg rests extending laterally from the upper portion of the post, a weight bar extending laterally from a free end of the swinging arm, a plurality of weights interchangeably mounted on the weight bar, pads on the weight bar for engagement by the legs of a person doing leg exercises, and a handle attached to the swinging arm for engagement by the hands of a person sitting on the seat for doing upper body and arm exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
  • Patent number: 7569004
    Abstract: Weight lifting simulator apparatus includes a primary pneumatic cylinder providing the principal resistance for simulating weight lifting exercise with at least one secondary cylinder in free fluid interconnection with the primary cylinder whereby constant and balanced loading is achieved, with provisions for dynamic simulation of weight inertia effect, and control thereof, as in lifting a real weight. The primary and the secondary cylinders are associated with a guideway, the primary cylinder being fixed to the guideway and the secondary cylinder being slidable relative to the guideway and pivotable relative to the piston rod of the primary cylinder. Variation of the securement position of the primary cylinder on the guideway is available and valving is provided in the fluid interconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Kolomeir
  • Patent number: 7563209
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7553263
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Benjamin Ball
  • Patent number: 7549949
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7544156
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Patent number: 7537551
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Clay Steffee
  • Patent number: 7530936
    Abstract: An exercise machine having a bench top having a right side, a left side, a forward end, a rearward end, and having an upper support surface; the exercise machine further having a rear leg fixedly attached to and extending downwardly from the bench top's rearward end; the exercise machine further having a “J” leg having a stem section and a tail section, the “J” leg's stem section having an upper end fixedly attached to the bench top's forward end, the “J” leg's tail section having a distal end; the exercise machine further having at least a first arm, the at least first arm having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the at least first arm being pivotally attached to the distal end of the “J” leg's tail section; the exercise machine further having a first handle fixedly attached to the at least first arm's distal end; and the exercise machine further having a first free weight bar fixedly attached to the at least first arm's distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Antony A. Hall
  • Patent number: 7530934
    Abstract: An exercise machine including a frame and a drive arm pivotedly engaged to the frame, for example, on an upright thereof. A cylinder is mounted at one point to the frame and, at a removed end of a plunger, has links or rod members to engage the removed end of the plunger to the frame and also to the drive arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Brian Garner
  • Patent number: 7491159
    Abstract: A resistance assembly for a hydraulic resistance exercise apparatus includes a single-action hydraulic cylinder having a longitudinal axis and extending from a first end to a second end. The single-action cylinder provides resistance to compression of the cylinder, one end toward the other, but provides little or no resistance to extension of the cylinder, one end away from the other. A first compression linkage compresses the hydraulic cylinder in response to movement of a first exercise resistance lever in a first direction. A second compression linkage compresses the hydraulic cylinder in response to movement of a second exercise resistance lever in a second direction directly opposed to the first direction. An engagement exercise lever includes an engagement pin for selectively engaging the engagement exercise lever to move in fixed relation to one or the other the first or second exercise levers in both the first and second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Gary W. Patterson
  • Patent number: 7476186
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus for resistance training includes an adjustment mechanism raising and lowering a platform, e.g. a stand-upon platform supporting the feet of the user. The adjustment mechanism both: a) journals the platform to pivot about a pivot axis parallel to a first lateral axis into and out of engagement with a detent lock; and b) linearly guides translational up and down movement of the platform and prevents side to side canting of the platform about a second lateral axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Clay J. Steffee
  • Patent number: 7473212
    Abstract: An apparatus for lower back exercise comprises a support structure and a body support platform supported by the support structure. A pendulum having three segments is connected to the support structure. The pendulum has a first segment; pivotably connected to the support structure; a second segment that proceeds from the first segment at a first angle; and a third segment that proceeds from the second segment at a second angle, so that the center of mass of the pendulum is offset from the vertical. Weights may be connected to the third segment of the pendulum. There is a means, such as straps, connected to the pendulum, for engaging the legs of a user. The user exerts force with his legs to move the pendulum through a range of motion greater than 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Louis J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7462141
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise device, which includes a vacuum cylinder and a flywheel. The flywheel provides an inertial component to the load, which is particularly well suited for use in space as it simulates exercising under normal gravity conditions. Also, the present invention relates to an exercise device, which has a vacuum cylinder and a load adjusting armbase assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Jasen L. Raboin, Jason Niebuhr, Santana F. Cruz, Christopher D. Lamoreaux