Abstract: A portable stair-stepping exercise machine having independent movable stepping pedals for each foot along with an independent pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder is herein disclosed. A support arm and bracket either collapses or comes apart for storage and transportation. The machine is generally of a smaller size and profile than its conventional counterparts and as such, its size and weight make it ideal to be transported while traveling, or for use in an area with restricted space in which the machine must be stored away after use.

Abstract: Various exercise machines have foot supporting linkages that move a person's feet through respective left and right paths of motion in respective planes that are skewed relative to one another.

Abstract: A method and/or a device may limit a distance traveled by a treadle assembly in an exercise device. For example, the distance traveled by the treadle assembly may be limited by limiting a distance that a resistance element operably coupled to the treadle assembly may travel. An exercise apparatus may include a travel-limiting device or capability.

Abstract: In an elliptical step exercise apparatus a dynamic link mechanism can be used to vary the stride length of the machine. A control system can also be used to vary stride length as a function of various exercise and operating parameters such as speed and direction as well as varying stride length as a part of a preprogrammed exercise routine such as a hill or interval training program. In addition the control system can use measurements of stride length to optimize operation of the apparatus.

Abstract: A stair-step exercise machine includes: a frame; first and second rotary members rotatably mounted on the frame; an endless member engaged with the first and second rotary members; a plurality of steps, each comprising a vertical riser panel and a horizontal treading panel, wherein a rearward edge portion of the treading panel is pivotally attached to an upper edge portion of the riser panel, and wherein each step is mounted to the endless member, with the lower edge portion of the riser panel and the forward edge portion of the treading panel being pivotally mounted to the endless member, thereby forming an endless chain of steps that follows a travel path around the first and second rotary members; and a resistance control unit attached to the frame and operatively associated with one of the first and second rotary members. Each step is between about 4 and 7.5 inches in height.

Abstract: An adaptive exercise device provides a foot motion in which horizontal and vertical components thereof are mechanically decoupled and independent. The device includes a primary guide assembly, and a secondary guide assembly, and a first and a second foot link, each having a foot pad portion for receiving and supporting a user's foot. The primary guide assembly directs the foot pad portions along a first path of travel having a horizontal component of motion. The secondary guide assembly directs the foot pad portions along a second path of travel having a vertical component of motion. Further disclosed is a method of exercising through the use of the adaptive exercise device.

Abstract: A multi-function exerciser includes a main frame. Two first universal joint units and two second universal joint units are respectively provided at two sides of the main frame. Two action units are pivotally connected to the first and second universal joint units. The two axes of the first and second universal joint units at the same side are at the same level and perpendicular to each other. Thus, the user can swing forward and rearward as well as left and right when standing on the footrests of the two action units for a forward split and a side split. Besides, because the two axes are at the same level and perpendicular to each other, the user can stand with one foot and lift another foot to do an oval turning for getting strong muscles in the legs.

Abstract: An elliptical trainer has a base, and two crank assemblies, a handle assembly and a linkage assembly mounted on the base. Each crank assembly has two cranks and a transmission wheel. A transmission strip is mounted around the transmission wheels of the crank assemblies to simulate rotations of the crank assemblies. The linkage assembly connects the cranks of the crank assemblies to the handle assembly. When the elliptical trainer is operated, the linkage assembly drives the cranks to alternately rotate upwardly and downwardly. The cranks that rotate downwardly drag the other cranks to rotate upwardly. Therefore, the crank assemblies and the linkage assembly operate smoothly, and consequently, the user is capable of smoothly performing walking or running movements.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for a core balance stepping workout having a flexible air or water filled bladder that can hold 400 to 500 pounds, and can be used by stepping, standing, sitting, or lying on the device to create new physical fitness exercises.

Abstract: An interactive exercise device includes a stationary base to which a first exercise implement is movably connected. A first resistance element is operably connected to the first exercise implement to provide resistance against at least some movements of the first exercise implement relative to the stationary base. An interactive motion guide that directs a user of the interactive exercise device to move the first exercise implement relative to the stationary base in an indicated manner is operably connected to the interactive exercise device. The interactive motion guide includes first and second electronic indicators to which a processor is operably connected. A non-transitory and tangible computer readable medium is operably connected to the processor and includes instructions to manipulate output of the first and second electronic indicators in response to movement of the first exercise implement relative to the stationary base.

Abstract: A step apparatus is disclosed for individual training or group fitness classes. The step apparatus may simultaneously contain a plurality of step heights for a dynamic work out. The platform heights may be quickly adjusted to user preference. The adjustable settings may be self-contained within a single unit, or alternate pieces may be provided for additional variation. The step apparatus has a frame and a plurality of step platform units, with each platform unit having two height settings.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame configured to rest on a floor surface; left and right cranks rotatably mounted on the frame; left and right first rocker links pivotally mounted on the frame; left and right drawbar links pivotally interconnected between respective cranks and respective first rocker links; left and right second rocker links pivotally mounted on the frame; and left and right foot links supported by respective cranks and respective rocker links. On one embodiment, the second rocker links are selectively pinned to respective first rocker links to configure the apparatus for elliptical striding exercise, and the second rocker links are alternatively pinned to the frame to configure the apparatus for arcuate stepping exercise. On another embodiment, adjustable length members are interconnected between respective second rocker links and respective first rocker links to accommodate variable elliptical striding motion.

Abstract: Stationary exercise machines having adjustable incline systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, for example, an elliptical exercise machine includes a system for adjusting the inclination of foot support guide tracks. The incline adjustment system can include a lift member that operates between the guide tracks and the floor on which the exercise machine is placed.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a first treadle assembly supporting a first moving surface and a second treadle assembly supporting a second moving surface. The exercise device further includes an upper body exercise assembly operably associated with the exercise device. The first treadle assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame structure, and the second treadle assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame structure. In another form, an exercise device includes a frame structure, a first treadle assembly having a first endless belt in rotatable engagement with a first roller, a second treadle assembly having a second endless belt in rotatable engagement with a second roller, and a flywheel operably coupled with the first endless belt and the second endless belt.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine includes a base support structure adapted to be positioned on a support surface. The machine includes first and second reciprocating foot supports, each foot support being movably linked to the base support structure. Additionally, a ramp assembly is situated on the base support structure, the ramp assembly having first and second guide rails for guiding the respective second ends of the first and second foot supports such that the foot supports move in an elliptical path when the elliptical exercise machine is operating. Moreover, a first support member is linked to the base support structure, wherein the first support member is pivotably linked to the ramp assembly at a point above the base support structure. Furthermore, a lift mechanism is linked on a first end to the base support structure and pivotably linked on a second end to the ramp assembly above the base support structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that simulates walking and jogging with arm exercise. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine having separately supported pedals for the feet and arm exercise coordinated with the motion of the feet where the pedal stride length is determined by the movements of an operator. Crank arms are positioned on the framework forward the operator at a height comparable to the pedals. Easy starting occurs in the default mode.

Abstract: An adjustable height exercise platform device having a platform that is removably secured between a pair of risers. The risers are held upright by an H-shaped horizontal base whose legs extend outward slightly to provide stability to the base. Each riser has spaced apart horizontal slots along its rear side for receiving one of two U-shaped bolts extending upward from the platform. Notches are cut out of the rear edge of the platform so that one of the U-shaped bolts straddles each notch. When the platform is attached to the risers, the U-shaped bolts rest in the slots and the two notches extend around the risers. One or more locking mechanisms are provided on the platform as a means of locking the platform and preventing the platform from being tilted in such a manner as to allow it to disengage from the risers.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame unit having a base frame, two crank arms, and two link units disposed respectively on left and right sides of the frame unit and each including a pedal rod connected pivotally to one of the crank arms. An adjustment unit includes a motor mounted on the frame unit, a threaded rod connected drivenly to the motor, a pull unit connected pivotally to the frame unit and connected drivenly to the threaded rod, and two roller sets connected pivotally to and disposed respectively on left and right sides of the pull unit. Each roller set is disposed in rolling contact with the pedal rod of a respective link unit. The roller sets are limitedly movable toward or away from an axis of rotation of the crank arms by a pulling action of the pull unit.

Abstract: An elliptical trainer has a base, and two crank assemblies, a handle assembly and a linkage assembly mounted on the base. Each crank assembly has two cranks and a transmission wheel. A transmission strip is mounted around the transmission wheels of the crank assemblies to simulate rotations of the crank assemblies. The linkage assembly connects the cranks of the crank assemblies to the handle assembly. When the elliptical trainer is operated, the linkage assembly drives the cranks to alternately rotate upwardly and downwardly. The cranks that rotate downwardly drag the other cranks to rotate upwardly. Therefore, the crank assemblies and the linkage assembly operate smoothly, and consequently, the user is capable of smoothly performing walking or running movements.

Abstract: A cyclical skating motion exercise machine has a base frame assembly. A first pedal arm mounted on a first pedal axle, wherein the first pedal axle is substantially vertical. A first link assembly mounted to the first pedal arm at a first pedal joint. The first pedal joint provides motion between the first link assembly and the first pedal arm. A first pedal mounted to the first pedal arm for supporting a user's foot. A second pedal arm is mounted on a second pedal axle, wherein the second pedal axle is substantially vertical. A crank assembly has a first link assembly is mounted to the a crank assembly, and the crank assembly has rotational inertia is substantially orthogonally to the first pedal axle.

Abstract: An exercise device includes one or more foot supports movable along an arcuate path defined around a point of rotation. The arcuate path is divisible into machine defined user selectable arc segments and the movement of the foot support(s) is limited to the machine defined user selected arc segment. The exercise device can include a frame, a linkage movably engaged with the frame, a foot support movably engaged with the linkage, a crank arm movably engaged with the frame, a motor operative to move the crank arm location with respect to the frame, and a drive linkage movably engaging the linkage.

Abstract: A stepper structure includes a base having a shaft at a central section thereof to connect a rotation seat. Two pedals are pivotally connected to two sides of the rotation seat. A link unit is pivotally connected to the shaft and located above the rotation seat. When the rotation seat and the base are confined, the two pedals are moved up and down for an up-and-down step exercise. When the link unit and the base are confined, the rotation seat is linked to swing by the up-and-down movement of the pedals for a waist swing and step exercise, providing a different function of the stepper.

Abstract: An exercise device employing side-by-side pivotally supported moving surfaces. In one particular example, an exercise device employs a first belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller and an adjacent second belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller. The rear of the belts in the area of the rear rollers are pivotally secured and the front of the belts in the area of the front roller are adapted to reciprocate in an up and down motion during use. In some implementations, the moving surfaces include an interconnection structure such that a generally downward movement of one surface is coordinated with a generally upward movement of the other surface. In other implementations, the moving surfaces are operably associated with one or more resistance elements that effect the amount of force required to pivot or actuate the moving surfaces.

Abstract: Exercise aiding apparatus includes a step 2 that a user puts a user's foot on, and a step drive means 5 that causes the step to perform movement including turning motion so that exercise is performed with respect to the foot put on the step. The apparatus includes a lock means 6 that fixes the step by engagement with the step except when the step drive means 5 drives the step. When the step is not driven, the step is fixed. The step is prevented from moving inadvertently at getting on and off, thereby ensuring safe getting on and off.

Abstract: A stationary exercise device having variable footpaths is disclosed. The exercise device includes a frame, a pair of supporting members that have a first end to rotate about an axis and a second end to move along a reciprocating path, a pair of pedals joined to the supporting members, and a guider assembly for adjusting an incline angle of the reciprocating path.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame, a pair of footpads, and a linkage coupling the footpads to the frame and for guiding the footpads in closed paths when a user's feet apply forces to the footpads. The linkage, which includes a rotatable member having an angular position indicative of the positions of the footpads within their closed paths, responds to input control signals by adjusting length and height dimensions of the closed paths. A control system senses the angular position of the rotatable member, senses the forces the user applies to the footpads, and generates the control signals to increase or decrease the path dimensions when it senses particular combinations of angular position and user forces, thereby permitting the user to control the path dimensions by controlling the forces applied to the footpads.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a linkage assembly which links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical movement of a force receiving member. The linkage assembly includes a flexible drawbar interconnected between the crank and frame of the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: A leg stretching device includes a frame having multiple lugs so as to be pivotably connected with first and second pedals. Two first protrusions extend from the first and second pedals respectively. Two side extensions respectively extend from two ends of the frame. A rod is connected to the mediate portion of the frame by an angle adjusting member. Two second protrusions extend from two sides of the rod respectively. Two resilient bands are respectively connected to the two first protrusions and the two second protrusions. The angle adjusting member adjusts the tensions of the two resilient bands. Two extension portions are respectively connected to the two side extensions and each extension portion has a support rod. The first and second pedals each have multiple positioning holes facing the support rod so as to adjust the angle of stretching.

Abstract: A dual-mode exercise machine includes a base, a swivel, two pedals, two impedance elements, a linkage and a pin. The swivel is pivotally connected to the base. The pedals are pivotally connected to the swivel. Each impedance element connects a related pedal to the swivel. The linkage includes a middle lever pivotally connected to the base and two lateral levers each for connecting a related pedal to the middle lever so that the pedals can be pivoted up and down alternately. The pin can be inserted in an aperture of the swivel and an aperture of the base to prevent the pivotal of the swivel but allow the pivotal of the middle lever. Alternatively, the pin can be inserted in an aperture of the middle lever and another aperture of the base to prevent the pivotal of the middle lever but allow the pivotal of the swivel.

Abstract: A transmission structure of a waist twirling exercise machine for body-building and a method thereof includes left and right stepping rods which are obliquely or horizontally connected to a machine base, left and right stepping platforms having left and right shafts inserting through lubricating members provided in through holes of the left and right stepping rods, left and right transmission members having first ends connected to the left and right shafts and second ends provided with eccentric blocks, left and right connecting rods having first ends connected to the eccentric blocks of the left and right transmission members and second ends pivotally connected to either of the machine base and pneumatic cylinders. When the left and right stepping platforms are treaded in turn, the left and right connecting rods subject to their lengths will drive the left and right stepping platforms to turn left and right in turn synchronously, enhancing a waist twirling effect.

Abstract: An exercise device for performing a variety of movement patterns is provided, having upper right and left leg links pivotally mounted to lower right and left leg links respectively. The upper leg links are pivotally coupled to the frame. A foot support is provided on the distal end of the lower leg links. The device includes first and second transfer systems for coordinating movement of the right and left sets of upper and lower leg links. The first transfer system is movably coupled to the frame and includes a first transfer member coupled to the first upper leg link, a second transfer member coupled to the second upper leg link, and a pivot bar pivotally mounted to the frame between a first end and a second end thereof with the first end coupled to the first transfer member and the second end coupled to the second transfer member.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame unit having a base frame and an upstanding frame, two crank arms, and an adjustment unit including a motor, a slide mounted movably on the upstanding frame, and a threaded rod connected threadedly to the slide and connected drivenly to the motor. Two swing units are disposed respectively on left and right sides of the frame unit and each includes a handle movable along with the slide, a link rod connected pivotally between an intermediate portion of the handle and one of the crank arms, a pivot arm connected pivotally to the link rod, and a pedal rod connected pivotally between a lower connecting portion of the handle and the pivot arm. The slide moves upwardly or downwardly along the upstanding frame when the motor is activated to adjust the position of the handle relative to the upstanding frame.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame unit having a base frame, two crank arms, and two link units disposed respectively on left and right sides of the frame unit and each including a pedal rod connected pivotally to one of the crank arms. An adjustment unit includes a motor mounted on the frame unit, a threaded rod connected drivenly to the motor, a pull unit connected pivotally to the frame unit and connected drivenly to the threaded rod, and two roller sets connected pivotally to and disposed respectively on left and right sides of the pull unit. Each roller set is disposed in rolling contact with the pedal rod of a respective link unit. The roller sets are limitedly movable toward or away from an axis of rotation of the crank arms by a pulling action of the pull unit.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical motion of a foot supporting member. A foot supporting linkage is movably connected between a rocker and a crank in such a manner that the foot supporting member moves through paths of motion which are fixed, adjustable or variable.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a first treadle assembly supporting a first moving surface and a second treadle assembly supporting a second moving surface. The exercise device further includes an upper body exercise assembly operably associated with the exercise device. The first treadle assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame structure, and the second treadle assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame structure. In another form, an exercise device includes a frame structure, a first treadle assembly having a first endless belt in rotatable engagement with a first roller, a second treadle assembly having a second endless belt in rotatable engagement with a second roller, and a flywheel operably coupled with the first endless belt and the second endless belt.

Abstract: An exercising device includes left and right linking units each having a swing link pivotally mounted on a front support of a frame, a crank link coupling a crank arm to the swing link, and a pedal link connected to a lower end of the swing link, and left and right foot engaging pedals each mounted on a rear linkage end of the pedal link to be movable along an elliptical path with rotation of the crank arms. A sloping ramp member has an inclined surface to guide the foot engaging pedals to simulate stair climbing during the elliptical movement of the foot engaging pedals through left and right rollable anti-friction members mounted under the foot engaging pedals and rollably engaged with the inclined surface.

Abstract: An abdominal exercising apparatus includes a frame with a first lateral member, a second lateral member, a first end member and a second end member attached together in a rectangular configuration. A pair of slides is provided. Each of the first and second lateral members has one of the slides attached thereto. The slides are slidable toward or away from the second end members and are engageable with a person's foot. A connecting assembly is coupled to each of the slides. The connecting assembly couples together the slides to cause a first one of the slides to move away from the second end member when a second one of the slides is moved toward the second end member. A person's feet are positionable on the slides while the person faces the upper surface of the frame. The person moves the slides back and forth to exercise the person's abdominal muscles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that simulates walking and jogging with arm exercise. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine having separately supported pedals for the feet and arm exercise coordinated with the motion of the feet where the pedal stride length is determined by the movements of an operator. Adjustable tracks are provided to vary the orientation of the pedal path for different intensity exercise. Further, the exercise apparatus is less complex than previous user defined motion elliptical apparatus.

Abstract: In an elliptical step exercise apparatus a dynamic link mechanism can be used to vary the stride length of the machine. A control system can also be used to vary stride length as a function of various exercise and operating parameters such as speed and direction as well as varying stride length as a part of a preprogrammed exercise routine such as a hill or interval training program. In addition the control system can use measurements of stride length to optimize operation of the apparatus.

Abstract: An exercise device includes one or more foot supports movable along an arcuate path defined around a point of rotation. The arcuate path is divisible into machine defined user selectable arc segments and the movement of the foot support(s) is limited to the machine defined user selected arc segment. The exercise device can include a frame, a linkage movably engaged with the frame, a foot support movably engaged with the linkage, a crank arm movably engaged with the frame, a motor operative to move the crank arm location with respect to the frame, and a drive linkage movably engaging the linkage.

Abstract: A side to side machine provides training for muscles and body structures using lateral motion. The side to side machine may comprise one or more inclined platforms which each support a step. The steps may be connected to synchronize their movement. The user may lower a first step to raise the other step. The user may then lower the raised step to raise the first step. This may be repeated to complete a user's training. The incline of the platforms may be adjusted as the user is training to strengthen and tone various of the user's leg and other muscles. In addition, the resistance to moving the steps may be adjusted as desired. A control system may be included to control the incline of the platforms and other operations of the side to side machine.

Abstract: An exercise machine provides a total body workout by exercising the legs, back, shoulders, obliques and abdominal muscles. The machine's backrest rolls is in phase with the movement of the legs, allowing the body to sit in a position that is comfortable and secure. The spinal column is continually supported during the workout. Pedal movement powers the machine's electronics and maintains the battery's charge.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine includes two swing rods connected pivotally to a base, a flywheel, two supporting rods connected pivotally between the flywheel and the swing rods, two pedal rods slidable respectively on the supporting rods, and a motion transmitting device. The device includes a fixed member fixed on the base, a rotatable member locked releaseably on the fixed member at a selected angular position, two cranks connected pivotally to the rotatable member, and two links each having a first pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding pedal rod, a second pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding swing rod, and a third pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding crank. The links are driven by the cranks to move the pedal rods forwardly and rearwardly on the supporting rods, respectively.

Abstract: An exercise device employing side-by-side pivotally supported moving surfaces. In one particular example, an exercise device employs a first belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller and an adjacent second belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller. The rear of the belts in the area of the rear rollers are pivotally secured and the front of the belts in the area of the front roller are adapted to reciprocate in an up and down motion during use. In some implementations, the moving surfaces include an interconnection structure such that a generally downward movement of one surface is coordinated with a generally upward movement of the other surface. In other implementations, the moving surfaces are operably associated with one or more resistance elements that effect the amount of force required to pivot or actuate the moving surfaces.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprises an oval-shaped structure, two driving arms, two swing handle and two slidable bars. The fly wheel of the oval-shaped mechanism simultaneously drives the driving arms and the swing handle, and the slidable bars are pivoted onto the assembling portion of the swing handle and rest on the shaft of the fly wheel such that the movements of the slidable bars are not limited by the driving arms and longer the travel stroke of the fly wheel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that simulates walking and jogging with arm exercise. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine having separately supported pedals for the feet and arm exercise coordinated with the motion of the feet where the pedal stride length is determined by the movements of an operator. Crank arms are positioned on the framework rearward the operator. Easy starting occurs in the default mode.

Abstract: An exercise device for performing a variety of movement patterns is provided, having an upper link pivotally mounted to a lower leg link and a foot support on a distal end of the lower leg link. A first transfer system is movably coupled to a frame and including a first transfer member coupled to the first upper leg link and a second transfer member coupled to the second upper leg link, thereby enabling substantially reciprocating motion of the first leg link relative to the second leg link. A second transfer system is also provided and may be movably coupled to the frame and including a pair of third transfer members coupled to each of a pair of fourth transfer members by way of each of a pair of transfer couplings, each movably mounted to the frame.

Abstract: A twisting and leaping exercise apparatus includes a base, at least one fixed seat, one or more sets of upper and lower swinging arms, a pedal set, a connecting plate and an elastic module. If an exerciser applies a force onto the pedal set, the pedal set will press onto the elastic module, such that the restoring resilience of the elastic module allows the exerciser to have an up-and-down leaping exercise, and the exerciser can also turn the pedal set to left and right to achieve the function of a waist twisting exercise, so as to achieve an all-round exercise and a better exercise effect.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a foot member configured to pivot about a horizontal pivot axis, the foot member supporting a footpad, a first surface coupled to the foot member to pivot with the foot member about the horizontal pivot axis, a second surface stationarily supported by the frame, and a bumper between the first surface and the second surface. The bumper resiliently compresses during pivoting of the first surface in the arc towards the second surface while in contact with the first surface and the second surface.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a base, an axle rotationally supported on the base and two cranks connected to the axle. The cranks are rotational synchronously with the axle. A drive wheel unit includes an active wheel provided on the axle so that the active wheel is rotational synchronously with the cranks. A passive wheel unit includes a load wheel supported on the axle so that the load wheel is rotational relative to the axle and a passive connected to the load wheel so that the passive wheel is rotational synchronously with the load wheel. A step-up device includes a shaft rotationally supported on the base and small and large wheels connected to the shaft so that they are rotational synchronously. The small wheel is connected to the active wheel so that they are rotational together. The large wheel is connected to the passive wheel so that they are rotational together.