Abstract: An exercise apparatus having movable elements which are manipulatable against resistance by a user to selectively exercise either the abdominal muscles or the back muscles of the user. The movable elements are interconnected for concurrent movement. Resistance to their movement is provided by an elastic resistance band which is secured to one of the elements and to a fixed support structure of the exercise apparatus. An adjustment mechanism is provided for pre-tensioning the resistance band.

Abstract: An exercise machine (10-10l) is provided having a platform (12-12l) on which a user (14-14l) is supported in a reclining position with the weight of the user (14-14G) being utilized as a resistance which may be selectively varied to the various exercises which may be performed on the exercise apparatus (10-10l). A lever (20-20l) is pivotally connected (30-32l) to the platform (12-12l) with the lever being actuated by the user for raising one end of the platform (12-12l) with respect to a pivot point with resistance to such raising being varied by the pivotal mounting of the lever (20-20l) on the platform (12-12l). Two of the various embodiments (FIGS. 13-16) include a base support (41F, 41G) having a rail (42F, 42G) on which a lever (20F, 20G) has a roller (47F, 47G) mounted for riding movement thereon and pivotally connected (32F, 32G) to a lower leg (62F, 62G) for pivotal movement. Other embodiments (FIGS.

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 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 relative to the support frame, and an extended position, wherein the lever arm is pivoted upwardly from its rest position. A range of motion (ROM) block is rigidly attached to the lever arm, and pivots with the lever arm. The orientation of the ROM block relative to the lever arm can be selectively varied.A tackle is attached to the ROM block to provide an opposing force to motion of the lever arm from the rest position to the extended position. This tackle includes two pulleys that are attached to the ROM block. The tackle also includes a substantially taut cable that extends between the pulleys, and the cable is connected to a mass.

Abstract: A strength training exercise apparatus includes a frame having an upright back rest, and a horizontal seat, and further includes opposing arm members pivotally mounted to the back rest. The arm members are movable through an arcuate range of motion, and include locking pins for selectively locking the arm members in desired angular positions. The apparatus still further includes a resistance assembly consisting of a fixed anchor mounted on the frame, a movable anchor which is movable relative to the fixed anchor, and a plurality of elastomeric resistance cords releasably secured between the movable anchor and the fixed anchor to provide resistance to movement of the movable anchor. A pull line is mounted on guide pulleys along the length of the arm members, and is received in association with the movable anchor whereby outward movement of the pull line with respect to the arm members causes movement of the movable anchor with respect to the fixed anchor.

Abstract: A multiple exercise device includes a slant board which may be elevated to different angular orientations ranging between completely vertical to completely horizontal. A rowing arm assembly is mounted on each side of the slant board with the pivotal action of the rowing arms being resisted by a friction brake. A foot platform is mounted at the lower end of the slant board and a shoulder resistance assembly is also mounted to the slant board.

Abstract: An exercise station for use in performing leg exercises has a bench on the front of which an exercise unit with leg engagement arms and a load unit connected to a loaded cable are swing mounted on a horizontal swing axis. A two-bar linkage is pivotally connected to the units and has over-center extended and folded positions when the exercise unit is in raised and lowered exercise positions, respectively, whereby exercising swing movement of the exercise unit also swing moves the load unit by way of the linkage.

Abstract: An exercise device for use by an exerciser in exercising his back muscles includes a frame, waist support, leg stop, and weight carriage. The frame comprises a ground contacting base and front and rear frame members. The waist support is located on top of the front frame member and the leg stop is located on the bottom of the rear frame member. The weight carriage is rotatably mounted to the frame, and includes a carriage frame, weight supporting bars, and a handle. The carriage is movable between a first resting position in which it extends downwardly from the front frame member to a second extended position in which it extends generally horizontally out from the front frame member.

Abstract: Apparatus for performing weight resistance exercise via manual rotation, the apparatus comprising: a rotatable member mounted on an axle, the axle being manually engageable for application of manual force to rotate the rotatable member; a pair of cable stops each connected to an end of a respective cable which is interconnected to a weight, the weight through the cable holding the stops within a respective mounting aperture; the rotatable member having a pair of retaining members, each retaining member receiving and retaining a respective stop member upon rotation of the rotatable member; the cable being interconnected to the weight such that rotation of the rotatable member is resisted by the weight through the cable upon application of manual rotating force to the axle.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for performing a shoulder press exercise are disclosed. A user support and a primary hinge are mounted to a frame. A secondary hinge is mounted to the primary hinge. An arm mounted to the secondary hinge has a handle adapted to be grasped by the user. The two hinges permit the user to displace the handle in either or both the longitudinal and lateral directions. A means for resisting the displacement of the handle, preferably in both the lateral and longitudinal directions, is provided. The resistance means may include a post attached to the arm for mounting weight plates. A second handle, arm, and secondary hinge may be provided for the other hand so that the user may exercise both halves of his body. The arms may be connected such that both handles move the same longitudinal and/or lateral distance.

Abstract: A longitudinal frame supports a seat whose longitudinal position on the frame is adjustable. A pair of footbeams are mounted on either side of the forward end of the frame near the floor and extend generally upwardly. The footbeams independently pivot on the frame so that the user can operate them in an alternating reciprocating fashion. Pivotal movement of the footbeams by the user is resisted, thereby requiring the user to expend energy in operating the device. The footbeams are preferably interconnected so that their respective movements am coordinated. In alternative embodiments, the footbeams pivot about a point just below the seat. The seat can also be adapted to recline, preferably at an angle greater than 30.degree. from the vertical. The footbeams can also be replaced by a crank with footpedals that are used to drive a flywheel and a generator.

Abstract: An exercise machine has a frame base with a platform at the rearward end upon which the athlete stands. A horizontal shaft rotatably mounted on a pair of vertical frame members near the forward end of the base has an upper central sprocket at its center and smaller sprockets at each end. A weight lever member pivotally connected to a pair of upright frame members extends forwardly therefrom and a number of weights are received on the outer end of the weight lever. A lower central sprocket is rotatably mounted between the upright frame members. A drive arm is arm pivotally connected at its bottom end to the platform. A handlebar rotatably mounted at the upper end of the drive arm is positioned a selective distance above the platform and has hand grips at each end.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for performing a squat press exercise are disclosed. A user support, such as a seat and a backrest, is mounted to a frame. A four-bar linkage is mounted to the frame distal to the user support. A footplate is mounted to the four-bar linkage. A lever is mounted to the four-bar linkage and is adapted to support removable weight plates. As the user presses the footplate, the four-bar linkage rotates, controlling the orientation of the footplate such that the footplate does not rotate with respect to the user support (and, thus, the user). The lever also rotates, causing the weight plates to lift in an arcuate path, thereby providing an increasing resistance to the movement of the footplate during the concentric portion of the exercise. In accord with another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for exercising the legs and lower torso. A weight resistance is selected. A user is supported on a user support and places her feet on a footplate.

Abstract: A lower-body exercise machine is provided having a frame, a carriage assembly pivotally attached to the frame and moveable in an upwardly and downwardly arcuate path about the frame, a support beam attached to and extending upwardly from the frame, and a platform pivotally attached to the frame and angling downwardly. A hookbar assembly is pivotally attached to the carriage assembly for releasably engaging the support beam to arrest the downward motion of the carriage assembly. The hookbar assembly comprises a hook bar rotatably attached to the carriage assembly, an elongated hook attached to and extending upwardly from the hook bar, and an elongated engagement handle attached to the hook bar. A rung is attached to the support beam. By moving the engagement handle upwardly, the hook bar rotates and pivots the hook towards the support beam to engage the rung and arrest the downward movement of the carriage assembly.

Abstract: A stretching exerciser includes an elongated base with an upright prop. The prop has a top end formed with a forwardly extending limiting projection. A seat member is mounted on the base. A connector includes a horizontal lever portion with a front end, a rear end which is mounted pivotally on the top end of the prop, and a bottom side which abuts against the limiting projection on the prop when the connector pivots forwardly. The connector further includes a vertical lever portion and a pair of curved connecting plates. A backrest member includes an elongated connecting frame unit with a bottom end that is mounted pivotally to the connecting plates. The frame unit is provided with a limit plate, and the connecting plates abut against the limit plate to limit rearward pivoting movement of the backrest member relative to the base.

Abstract: A weight training machine having a dynamically controlled resistance capability. The user exercises by causing an exercise arm to pivot. Pivoting coaxially with the exercise arm, is a pivot arm which supports a secondary weight. To pivot the exercise arm, the user must overcome a primary resistance and the torque on the pivot arm due to the secondary weight. The torque due to the secondary weight can be dynamically varied by varying the position of the secondary weight on the pivot arm. Thus the resistance experienced by the user, can be varied within a predetermined range. A force input mechanism engageable with a body part of the user is also disclosed which reduces discomfort to the user during exercise.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for performing a rear deltoid and rowing exercise are disclosed. A user support and a primary hinge are mounted to a frame. A secondary hinge is mounted to the primary hinge. An arm mounted to the secondary hinge has a handle adapted to be grasped by the user. The two hinges permit the user to displace the handle in either or both the longitudinal and lateral directions. A means for resisting the displacement of the handle, preferably in both the lateral and longitudinal directions, is provided. The resistance means may include an incremental weight stack operably engaged to handle by belts directed by self-aligning pulleys. A second handle, arm and secondary hinge may be provided for the other hand so that the user may exercise both halves of his body. The arms may be connected such that both handles move the same longitudinal and/or lateral distance.

Abstract: An aerobic exercise machine is disclosed in which aerobic exercise may be conducted using the trunk and hip flexor and extensor muscles. The exercise machine does not require dynamic use of the extremities. The exercise machine provides a uniform level of resistance to contact means adapted to contact both the anterior and posterior surfaces of the trunk of the person exercising. The exercise machine enables exercise by flexion and extension of the trunk muscles and flexion and extension of muscles controlling the hip joint. An energy storage device is utilized to provide uniform resistance to movement in both directions and during the reversal of directions. A counter is provided and various levels of resistance may be selected by switching selected amounts of resistance across the output of a generator driven by the motion of the exerciser.

Abstract: An exercise device is disclosed that properly optimizes body mechanics to create a safe and effective lower body or combination upper body and lower body workout. The invention is comprised of a pad for the user to lay on and a foot plate to press the user's feet against. A lift arm is provided with handles at the user's sides. As the foot plate is pressed away from the body and the lift arm is pulled from the user's sides upward toward the head. A linkage connected to the arm supporting the foot plate and a linkage connected to the lift arm both work to rotate a center frame, which supports the pad thus doing work by vertically displacing the same and therefore the body weight of the user. Additional resistance can be added by an elastic spring which is situated to apply tension to oppose the rotational movement of the center frame relative to the base frame of the invention.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for performing a leg press exercise with counterbalance are disclosed. A user support, such as seat and a backrest, is mounted to a frame. A swing, such as a four-bar linkage, is mounted to the frame distal to the user support. A footplate is mounted to the four-bar linkage. An arm with a counterweight is pivotally connected to the frame. A beam is rotatably mounted to the four-bar linkage and the arm. The footplate is adjusted relative to the seat by variation of the length of a connection between a pulley weight system and the four-bar linkage. The footplate rotates arcuately with respect to the frame during adjustment to accommodate users of various stature. The position of the counterweight changes during footplate adjustment in order to compensate for the changing effect of gravity on the footplate and the swing.

Abstract: An exercise frame includes an upstanding back rest and an intersecting seat, with pairs of exercise arm and leg assemblies supported along corresponding sides of the back rest. Each arm and leg assembly is segmented and linked together so as to limit and restrict movement of selected muscle groups within selected fixed planes defined to include a straight line passing through the corresponding proximal and distal ends while achieving loading of primary and secondary joint combinations.

Abstract: A triangular articulated lever system is supported on a vertical support tube. The system includes a pair of swing arms that are pivotally mounted on the support tube for supporting a lifting bar. A threaded extension of a gas cylinder spring arm is coupled to an articulated mount at an apex of the triangular lever system formed by the swing arms and the spring arm. The cylinder is coupled by a clevis arrangement to a lead screw for changing the configuration of the articulated triangular lever system and adjusting the load at the lifting bar. A bench is positioned beneath the lifting bar and is pivotally mounted to a base for rotation out from underneath the lifting bar for non bench exercises. The lifting bar is mounted for limited universal movement at the end of the swing arms and is rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The preferred embodiment has a cylindrical serpentine shaped tube configuration.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a platform, including a seat which supports the back and head of the user, that is rotatably attached to a frame that rests on the floor. A pivot arm, which is fixedly attached to the platform and rotatably attached to the frame, allows the platform to move between a first position where the legs of a user lying on the seat are bent approximately 90 degrees at both the knees and at the hips when the user's feet are placed on a leg support that is attached to the frame, and a second position where the user's legs are substantially fully extended. Movement of the platform is resisted by elastomeric weight straps which extend between the frame and the pivot arm or weight plates which are mounted on the platform. The weight straps and weight plates can either be used separately or in combination with one another. Stops limit the travel of the platform so that the platform does not move past its desired first and second positions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise device for exercising at least two groups of muscles. The device includes a first subframe supporting body support members including a foot rest and seat. A second subframe is operably coupled to the first subframe by a joint having two axes of rotation and internal stops for controlling the rotation about both axes. A back rest is carried by the second subframe. The back rest is movable in generally opposite directions to exercise the two groups of muscles. Elastomeric resistance elements are selectively and operably coupled across the joint.

Abstract: Apparatus for the exercise of a person's upper torso wherein there is minimal unnatural motion or positioning of the glenohumeral joint and/or the wrist and elbow joints and including means for carrying each of the person's arms through movement generally within a transverse plane that is occupied by the wrist, elbow and shoulder joints, this means comprising at least one set of outrigger arms arranged for pantographic motion about fixed axes which are substantially coincident with the median sagittal plane of the person's body. A method for the upper torso exercise is disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for performing a shoulder press exercise are disclosed. A user support and a primary hinge are mounted to a frame. A secondary hinge is mounted to the primary hinge. An arm mounted to the secondary hinge has a handle adapted to be grasped by the user. The two hinges permit the user to displace the handle in either or both the longitudinal and lateral directions. A means for resisting the displacement of the handle, preferably in both the lateral and longitudinal directions, is provided. The resistance means may include an incremental weight stack operably engaged to handle by belts directed by self-aligning pulleys. A second handle, arm and secondary hinge may be provided for the other hand so that the user may exercise both halves of his body. The arms may be connected such that both handles move the same longitudinal and/or lateral distance.

Abstract: An exercise machine utilizing a Exercise Resistive Device in conjunction with a Counter Compressive Force Device. The Exercise Resistive Device applies a resistive force to the users body in such a manner that it requires that the users muscles contract in order to execute an exercise. The Counter Compressive Force Device produces a counter force that opposes compressive forces acting on the body resulting from said exercise. Frictional and other destructive internal forces upon the body are consequently reduced or eliminated.

Abstract: Apparatus for the exercise of a person's upper torso wherein there is minimal unnatural motion or positioning of the glenohumeral joint and/or the wrist and elbow joints and including means for carrying each of the person's arms through movement generally within a transverse plane that is occupied by the wrist, elbow and shoulder joints, this means comprising at least one set of outrigger arms arranged for pantographic motion about fixed axes which are substantially coincident with the median sagittal plane of the person's body. A method for the upper torso exercise is disclosed.

Abstract: An improved leg lift unit includes three sets of exercising and/or support pads for facilitating various exercise regimens. A first set of exercising pads is mounted to a pivoting leg member to facilitate leg lift exercises. A second set of exercise pads are mounted to a body of the unit to provide support for an exerciser in various positions. A vertically adjustable support pad assembly is provided which can be positioned to clamp a user's legs or thighs when doing leg lift exercises. The vertically adjustable support pad assembly can also be used in arm curl exercises in connection with a bar rest mounted to the pivoting leg member.

Abstract: An abdominal hip/flex exercise machine includes a frame, a seat located at a first end of the frame for supporting an exerciser in an upright exercise position facing the second end of the frame, and a lever pivotally connected to the frame between the first and second ends thereof. At the second end of the frame, the lever includes at least one hub for holding weighted plates, while the opposite end of the lever located adjacent the seat includes spaced pads and handles adapted to be engaged by the arms and hands of an exerciser supported on the seat in the upright exercise position. The exerciser acts on the pads via a downwardly directed abdominal/hip flex motion to pivot the lever about the axis against the weight resistance held at the second end thereof. A leg brace may be included to restrain the exerciser from upward movement during performance of the downwardly directed flexing exercise motion, with the leg brace and the seat being vertically adjustable to suit the height of the exerciser.

Abstract: A weight training machine has a base with an upright member secured thereto. A trolley is positioned on the upright member to move along its length. A plate is rotatably secured to the trolley to rotate relative thereto. An arm is rotatably secured and lockable in a variety of orientations relative to the plate. A cable is trained around pulleys positioned on the trolley and on the rotatable plate and connected at one end to the apparatus and at its other end to a resistance mechanism. The resistance mechanism through the cable resists rotation of the plate by the user when performing exercises. The apparatus may also include a second trolley positioned to move along the upright member with an arm extending therefrom. The cable may be further engaged around another pulley secured to the second trolley so that the resistance mechanism may resist movement of the second trolley by the user along the length of the upright member in the performance of exercises.

Abstract: An improved calf exercise machine includes a frame with a seat for supporting an exerciser in an exercise position with the legs extended horizontally, a lever pivotally connected to the frame in front of and below the seat, and an engagement plate secured to the lever and adapted to be engaged and acted upon by the upper portions of the feet of the exerciser via an outward toe extension movement followed by a rearward toe retraction motion. This movement arcuately rotates the lever about its pivot axis, with a corresponding flexion and then extension of the calf muscles. Weight holding hubs connected to the lever hold a selected number of weighted plates to provide a desired weight resistance to pivotal extension of the lever via the outwardly directed foot movement. This machine optimally isolates the calf muscles during calf flexion/extension.

Abstract: A compact attachment for a multi-station exercise machine conveniently couples to a low pull station and therefore utilizes the weight stack or other resistance mechanism of the exercise machine. The attachment is designed for performing leg press and other lower limb exercises. The attachment has a frame on which a pair of foot pads are mounted. A seat for the operator of the attachment is suspended from the frame by a pair of parallel pivoting arms so that the seat remains in a relatively constant attitude throughout the exercise stroke. The invention may be alternatively embodied as a stand alone device utilizing free weights as a means for providing exercise resistance.

Abstract: The spine rehabilitation apparatus includes a frame having a vertical part and an inclined part; a counterforce device on the vertical part of the frame has an operating linkage having a pivot axle, and a support adapted to rest against the upper body region of the user of the rehabilitation apparatus, and the operating linkage is rotatable about the pivot axle; a seat part is on the inclined part of the frame, and below the pivot axle and the support, and is adjustably positioned on the inclined part of the frame; a convex member having a substantially cylindrical surface is affixed to the inclined part of the frame above the seat part forming with the seat part a wedge mechanism; a lever-lock mechanism for securing a user's pelvis to the wedge mechanism by holding the knees of the user in a fixed position is attached to and extends from the frame beneath the seat part and includes a foot rest and a supporting structure for securing a user's pelvis with a pressure applied to the user's knees, substantially p

Abstract: A multiple-exercise station may be used alone or as a station for a multi-gym type of exercise machine. The station has a frame supporting a bench for performance of leg presses and leg extensions. A user standing on the floor at one end of the bench may also perform standing leg curls. Two movable arms are attached to the frame at the one end of the bench. A first movable arm is pinned near the floor, having a plate attached to an upper end for placement of the feet of a user thereagainst. The first movable arm is rotated by the force of a user's legs, moving away at its upper end from the bench in response to a pressing action against the plate. A second movable arm is pinned at its top end to an aperture proximate the top of the first movable arm on the side opposite the bench. The lower end of the second movable arm is rotatable away from the first movable arm.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus for strengthening the legs and hips of a user. A weight carrying pivot arm rides up and down a pivotable mast when the user squats and rises, causing the resistance of the apparatus to increase as the user approaches a standing position. An optional toe plate may be added to allow exercise of ankle and foot structures.

Abstract: A machine for exercising leg muscles including a movement arm rotatable about a horizontal axis, a seat for receiving a user with the legs engageable with the movement arm to rotate it in one direction about the axis, and a weight stack including a resistance weight and a vertical stack pin connectable to the resistance weight. A sprocket is connected to the movement arm to rotate with the movement arm, and a drive connection including a chain or cable is established between the sprocket and the bottom of the stack pin to raise the stack pin when the movement arm is rotated in one direction. In one embodiment a drive lever is pivotally connected to the bottom of the stack pin to raise the stack pin when the movement arm is rotated in one direction in opposition to the resistance weight. The chain is connected to an intermediate portion of the drive lever. The movement arm is provided with a convenient handle for rotating the movement arm while the user is seated.

Abstract: A pull-up exercising machine including two opposite handlebars fastened to an upright frame above a base frame, a revolving axle transversely fastened to the upright frame and spaced between handlebars and the base frame, a first supporting rod perpendicularly connected to the revolving axle in the middle, a second supporting rod perpendicularly connected to the revolving axle at one end, a platform hinged to the first supporting rod, a weight holder mounted on the second supporting rod to hold weights, two connecting rods bilaterally connected between the platform and the upright frame to maintain the platform horizontal, and a retracting air cylinder connected between the second supporting rod and the base frame, for buffering the upstroke of the platform to a speed that is safe for the user.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an upright column, with a translating shuttle assembly secured within a slot in the column. An adjustable seat is supported by the shuttle assembly. A collar is secured to the upper end of the shuttle assembly, and circumscribes the column assembly in freely translating fashion. A first pivot shaft is joined to the collar to secure one end of a main drive link in freely pivoting fashion. A handle pivot shaft secures a pair of handle members to a second pivot shaft atop the column assembly. A first mounting pin is adapted to releasably secure the other end of the main drive link to the handles at selectively variable distances from the first pivot shaft. Movement of the handles urges the main drive link upwardly to lift the shuttle assembly and the weight of the user. A leg exercise assembly includes a pair of leg struts joined in parallel spaced apart disposition to opposed ends of a third pivot shaft supported on the column.

Abstract: An exercise frame includes an upstanding back rest and an intersecting seat, with a pair of exercise arm assemblies supported along corresponding sides of the back rest and exercise leg assemblies supported along corresponding sides of the seat. Each arm and leg assembly is segmented and linked together so as to limit and restrict movement of the distal ends of each arm or leg assembly along a straight line passing through the corresponding proximal and distal ends.

Abstract: A leg press machine has a movement arm mounted by parallel links for pivotal movement about a generally horizontal axis in opposition to one or more resistance weight stacks on opposite sides of the movement arm. The linkage is connected to a drive lever below the movement arm which in turn is connected to the bottom of a weight stack rod to raise the latter and associated weights as the movement arm is pivoted by the legs. The movement arm is stabilized by the linkage and a counterweight connected to the linkage.

Abstract: Aerobic exercise equipment includes a frame body having a base portion that rests on a floor surface, and a seat portion. Shaft portions fixed with respect to the frame body define pivot axes aligned with a front edge of the seat portion. A pair of arm exercise bars are mounted each at a side of the seat portion to swing forward about first shaft portions when the person grips the bars while seated. A pair of leg exercise bars are also mounted each at a side of the seat portion to swing upward about second shaft portions when the seated person's feet are urged against the leg exercise bars. In a preferred embodiment, all of the shaft portions on which the arm and the leg exercise bars are mounted have a common axis, and adjacent arm/leg exercise bars at the sides of the seat portion have an associated torsion spring and limit stop mechanism. Adjustable paddle assemblies are used in place of the spring mechanisms in an underwater version of the equipment.

Abstract: An exerciser includes first and second base sections which are adjustable with each other along a longitudinal direction thereof, a frame extending upwardly from the first base section, and a bench device. A disc is pivotally mounted to the frame. A handle is pivotably mounted to the disc to pivot therewith for operating a resistance device and is retained in a desired angular position relative to disc. The bench device includes a substantially L-shaped first member having a first end pivotally mounted to the second base section and a second end, a second member having an end pivotally connected to the second end of the L-shaped first member and having an element mounted to a mediate section thereof, and a substantially L-shaped third member having a first end pivotally connected to the frame and a second end pivotally mounted to the element of the second member. By such an arrangement, the bench device may be adjusted to any desired status.

Abstract: An exercising machine that has an adjustable actuator arm assembly coupled to a weight stack by a pulley/cable assembly. The actuator arm assembly includes an actuator arm that lifts the weight stack when rotated through an arc. The machine is constructed with a frame that has a vertical bar. The actuator arm is coupled to a sleeve assembly that can slide along the vertical bar, to provide a number of operating locations. The machine also has a first cable that is coupled to the actuator arm. The cable is looped around a first tension pulley, a first floating pulley and then fixed to the sleeve assembly. The first floating pulley is coupled to a second cable that loops around a second tension pulley and is attached to the weight stack. When the actuator arm is rotated, the first floating pulley is pulled in a downward direction. The movement of the first floating pulley pulls the second cable and lifts the weight stack in an upward direction.

Abstract: A scissor grip exercising machine includes a locating bar having a cushion in the middle for supporting the machine on the back of the user between the shoulders. A pair of operating bars are pivotally attached to either end of the locating bar for movement about a pivot axis intermediate their ends. One end of each operating bar terminates in a hand grip. Each operating bar has one through opening on each side of the pivot axis. A pair of elastic reversing members are pivotally attached at one end to the locating bar and at the other end to a selective one of the through openings whereby pivotal movement of the operating bars may be selectively resisted in either direction.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a frame, a pivot arm mounted on the frame, a resistance mechanism, preferably an elastomeric torsion member, and a positioning element which allows the pivot arm to be pivotally adjusted with respect to the frame, independent of the resistance element, so as to vary the neutral position of the pivot arm. The preferred embodiment may also comprise a shaft mounted to the frame for conveying torque to the elastomeric torsion member and a support arm mounted to the frame to oppose rotation of the elastomeric torsion member about the shaft. In one embodiment, the exercise apparatus takes the form of a weight bench. In a second embodiment, the exercise apparatus is a home gym.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for exercise in which a preselected work input to an exercise machine that is associated with an award-granting switch triggers a reward. The input can be a particular rate of work as measured by rotational speed or linear motion or a summation of the time during which a threshold level of work was exceeded. The reward can be turning on a TV or like electrical apparatus or it can be a change in the exercise machine and regime. An exercise machine incorporating the award-granting switch is disclosed in which the reward is a change in the angle to horizontal at which the exercise is performed. This change can make the exercise harder or easier depending on the exercise protocol desired.

Abstract: A weight lifting machine for performing a wide range of exercises, has a lift bar angularly adjustable for a starting lift position angularly upward or downward of a substantially horizontal position. An actuating bar is connected to the lift bar for movement therewith. First and second pulleys are movably mounted above and below the actuating bar such that the first pulley moves upwardly with the actuating bar and the second pulley moves downwardly with the actuating bar. The first pulley is prevented from moving downwardly when the second pulley is moved downwardly with the actuating bar and the second pulley is likewise prevented from moving upwardly when the first pulley is moved upwardly. A lift cable is threaded through the first and second pulleys such that movement of the lift bar in either direction lengthens the distance between the pulleys, thereby lifting a plate-type weight stack.

Abstract: An exercise machine supports the user with a backrest that is slideable along a guide member. The guide member extends upwardly from the frame of the machine and is inclined to the rear so that the user is supported in a semi-recumbent position. A pair of longitudinal beams are pivotally mounted on either side of the frame. Footpads are provided at the forward ends of the beams so that a user of the apparatus can comfortably engage the beams with his feet. The beams independently pivot on the frame so that the user can operate them in an alternating reciprocating fashion. A resistance mechanism resists the downward movement of the beams and a biasing force is provided to return the beams in an upward direction. To utilize the apparatus, the user engages the footpads with his feet and then presses against the footpads to elevate the backrest along the guide member. The resistance level is then gradually reduced and the user maintains an elevated position with a striding action against the beams.

Abstract: A physical fitness training apparatus includes a mainly upright module, a training arm which projects out from the main module and rotates about a horizontal pivot axis, the training arm having grips or manipulation devices for use by the person exercising, a loading arrangement, and, a flexible tie with pulleys for load and motion transfer between the training arm and the load arrangement. The physical fitness training apparatus further includes a main arm which projects out from the main module and may be adjusted at angles about the horizontal pivot axis. The main arm has a first pair of pulleys located near and over/under each other at the outer free end of the main arm. The flexible tie extends from an attachment point on the training arm between the gap between the pulleys of the first pair of pulleys. The main arm has another pair of pulleys located near and over/under each other at the same horizontal pivot axis mentioned above.