Including Upper Body Exercise Feature Patents (Class 482/62)
  • Publication number: 20040132583
    Abstract: An exercise device providing a fore and aft horizontal component of striding motion that is dynamically user-defined, while providing a vertical component of the motion that is maintained on a predetermined vertically reciprocating path in some embodiments. The exercise device guides the user's foot in a pseudo-elliptical stride path, while providing a dynamically variable stride length that allows the user to move with a natural stride length. The exercise device allows tall and short users to extend or curtail the stride length to match their natural stride lengths. The length of the reciprocating path is dynamically adjusted during the exercise operation without equipment adjustments by changes in the length of the stride input by the user at a pair of foot engagement pads disposed on laterally spaced apart foot support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Applicant: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: John Arthur Ohrt, James A. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6758790
    Abstract: A walking/jogging exercise machine includes a frame supported upon a generally horizontally extending floor, and a main driveshaft mounted for rotation on the frame. A pair of cams is mounted for rotation on the driveshaft, and a pair of first track assemblies is fixed to the frame. A pair of second track assemblies is rotatably attached to the frame and includes brackets having first rollers which ride upon the peripheries of the cams. A pair of non-aligned, foot assemblies are mounted for sliding movement on the first and second track assemblies. A linkage arrangement is provided between the drive shaft and the foot assemblies for transferring the movement of the foot assemblies to the cams so as to produce a change in the angle of a user's ankle which will result in a natural walking/jogging motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Northland Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick D. Ellis
  • Publication number: 20040082440
    Abstract: A system for use in an exercise apparatus for synchronizing the movement of the upper limbs comprises a shaft mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis, left and right pulleys mounted at opposed end portions of the shaft, and left and right handlebars respectively connected to the left and right pulleys and pivotable therewith about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Left and right one-way clutches are provided for respectively transmitting a torque from the left and right pulleys to the shaft in one direction, while allowing the left and right pulleys to rotate freely relative to the shaft when driven in an opposite direction. First and second cables are connected in parallel between the left and right pulleys to communicate a movement imparted to one of the pulleys to the other pulley but in an opposite direction, thereby causing the handlebars to pivot in an inverted synchronized fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Jess Tremblay
  • Patent number: 6719675
    Abstract: A inertial rocking type exercising device includes a rotation main body, and a support rack. The rotation main body is provided with two semi-spherical bodies, and a rotation disk rotatably mounted on the two semi-spherical bodies. The rotation disk is provided with an extension portion for receiving a counterweight ball. The support rack is provided with two handles and has a first end inserted into one of the two semi-spherical bodies, and a second end provided with an arcuate catch plate. Thus, the inertial rocking type exercising device that has a small volume and can be assembled and dismantled easily and conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Yu
  • Patent number: 6719665
    Abstract: A step simulator having pace adjustment device includes a stand, a driving wheel and a idler wheel rotatably secured to the stand and connected by a belt, a pair of tread bars indirectly pivoted to a pair of cranks of the driving wheel via a pair of adjustment devices, a pair of support rods respectively pivoted to a connecting bars of the adjustment devices and a transverse rod on a post of the stand and a pair of handle bars secured to the top of the support rods respectively. This disclosure is characterized in the pair of adjustment devices by which the step simulator is compact in size and both the oscillatory range of the tread bars and the length of the pace are adjustable in order that the step simulator enables to serve the adults and/or the children.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Fen-Ying Lai
  • Patent number: 6716143
    Abstract: An exercising system for use by wheelchair bound users, uses a platform that has a pair of rollers on which the user can stationarily roll the wheelchair. A first pulley allows the user to perform reciprocating up and down rope and pulley exercises, while a pair of foot pedals allow for lower body exercising. The foot pedals can be attached to the platform and can have a rope over a pulley assist mechanism or the foot pedals can be attached directly to the wheelchair and can operate independently of the platform. A punching bag or other similar item can be attached to the exercising system in order to increase the range of physical activities that can be performed by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Wallace Kent Martin
  • Patent number: 6716145
    Abstract: A push-up/chest exercising device for exercising one's chest muscles while performing push-ups. The push-up/chest exercising device includes a support assembly including a plurality of leg members and a support member being mounted upon the leg members; and also includes a plurality of handhold members being movably mounted upon the support member; and further includes a plurality of resistance members being mounted upon the support member and being connected to the handhold members to resist movement of the handhold members toward one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: John Manailovich
  • Patent number: 6712742
    Abstract: A compact portable abdominal exercise apparatus comprising a first member that concentrically slides in a second member, and resistance is provided by elastic attached between the distal end of the first member and the distal end of the second member. Handles position the user in an ergonomically neutral position that requires a user to crunch straight downward for the first member to slide properly within the second member. The straight downward crunching motion requires flexion of the user's lower vertebra column, thereby isolating the abdominal muscles from the hip flexors and back muscles. Molded covers protect the user from moving parts associated with the connector assembly. The elastic members can be quickly changed by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: William G. Suiter
  • Patent number: 6702722
    Abstract: A vertically oriented exercise device for working out arms, legs or both arms and legs simultaneously is provided which includes a stationary base having a first adjustable vertical standard attached thereto. A rotatable pedal operated variable tension load wheel is provided near the bottom of the standard, and an adjustable seat is conveniently attached at a central location thereby allowing the user to comfortably sit while also reaching the pedals and hand grips. A second adjustable standard is provided which supports either a stationary handle or a pair of vertically oriented movable handles which are pivotally attached at the top of the second standard. The bottoms of the movable handles are attached through a set of linkages to the pedals on the load wheel. The linkages allow force applied by the user to the handles to directly turn the load wheel. Thus, the legs independently, the arms independently, or both the arms and legs together may be used to operate the load wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Joe Arroyo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6695754
    Abstract: An exercise device for supporting one or both ankles during a pushup exercise routine in which the ankle holder is pivotally disposed on an elongated upright stand and the pivoting ankle holders are biased, preferably by weight distribution, so that the ankle receiving surface of each ankle holder is upwardly disposed and ready to receive an ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: David M. Gazzolo
  • Publication number: 20040023759
    Abstract: An exercise system (10) for exercising at least one limb, such as the legs, of a subject with spinal cord injury or deficiency. The system (10) comprises an exercise bicycle (20) having a crank (17) and pedals (16) to which the feet of the subject can be mounted, and a functional electrical stimulation (FES) system (30). The FES system (30) stimulates the muscles of the legs and includes a transducer (51) mountable to at least one of the legs of the subject (12) that outputs signals representative of the position and/or movement of the leg when performing the exercise. The FES system (30) further includes a control means that receives and processes the signals output by the transducer (51) and outputs control signals to a stimulator (35) that through electrodes (53) provides electrical stimulation to the legs of the subject (12) so as to cause the legs to drive the crank (17) of the bicycle (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Robert Duncan, Simon Geoffrey Parker
  • Patent number: 6682462
    Abstract: A dual-purpose exerciser includes an axle mounted on a frame section, a pair of pedal units coupled to the axle, and a drive wheel connected to the axle through a first one-way clutch such that the drive wheel is rotatable with the axle in a certain direction. A drive belt is trained on the drive wheel and a resistance wheel. A pull wheel on the axle is connected to the drive wheel through a second one-way clutch such that the pull wheel can drive rotation of the drive wheel. A pull rope is secured to the pull wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Sunny Lee
  • Patent number: 6676571
    Abstract: The bicycle trainer includes a frame having a head tube, a top tube, and a rear fork, wherein a foot bar and a front fork are mounted at a lower part of the head tube, a front part of the top tube is pivotally connected to the head tube, and the rear fork is connected to the top tube; a handle connected to the front fork of the frame and properly connected to the front fork; a front wheel and a rear wheel pivotally connected to front wheel and rear wheel; and a flexible device connecting the frame with a rear pivot shaft at one side of the rear wheel, wherein the flexible device drive the rear wheel to rotate and is recovered by using a swirling spring installed at the other side of the rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Xiao Hong Cui
  • Patent number: 6676577
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame designed to rest upon a floor surface; a back rest mounted on the frame; and a foot platform mounted on the frame. At least one of the foot platform and the back rest is pivotally mounted on the frame in such a manner that a person may rest his back against the back rest and exercise his quadriceps muscles in isolated, closed chain fashion. A resistance device is preferably provided to resist movement of the back rest and/or the foot platform in a manner that opposes the user's efforts to straighten his legs at the knees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Patent number: 6672994
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm supporting member, and a leg supporting member. A sensor is connected to the arm supporting member, and/or a resilient member is interconnected between the arm supporting member and either the leg supporting member or the frame. The sensor communicates with a user display and/or a resistance device to indicate the amounts of work performed by the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or to adjust resistance to movement of the leg supporting member as a function of user force applied against the arm supporting member. The resilient member encourages synchronization of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, while allowing some relative movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 6663547
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel push-up device which is configurable by user body characteristics and by predetermined conditions for range of motion so as to guide an exerciser to perform a push-up which meets such predetermined range of motion and exercise form criteria. Through the use of the device of the present invention, exercisers are able to perform push-ups that meet predetermined range of motion criteria regardless of their body characteristics and receive feedback based upon whether the exercise was properly performed or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: John P. Hughes
  • Patent number: 6652419
    Abstract: An integrated exercise machine system that is utilized to facilitate overall physical fitness which includes the detoxification of the body along with the aerobic conditioning of the cardiovascular system. The system was primarily designed to facilitate a proactive approach to the conditioning of muscles that have become fatigued or atrophied in various occupations, such as computer operators, clerical personnel, or other occupations that have limited range of motions, and improve mobility of the elderly and physically impaired. It is a uniquely shaped, portable rebounder that folds with a safety hinge and collapsing legs. An overhead upper body exercise system is adapted to the environment utilizing a dual telescopic primary horizontal overhead bar, adapts to a door frame or wall, and is housed in a cradle unit. There are two adjustable securing straps with a device for attaching and suspending the secondary horizontal bar and/or elastic resistance ropes with varying degrees of elasticity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: James Eugene Rota
  • Patent number: 6645125
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm driven member, a leg driven member, and a transmission interconnected between the arm driven member and the leg driven member. At least one of the arm driven member and the leg driven member is pivotally connected to the frame. The arm driven member and the leg driven member are operatively connected in such a manner that the two members are subject to independent influences but nonetheless synchronized with respect to direction of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 6602168
    Abstract: A total body exercise machine including a fixed seat and longitudinal frame members on which travel a footrest slide carriage and a handle slide carriage. A tensile element coordinates movement of the slide carriages in opposite directions at a constant speed ratio. In the preferred embodiment resistance to slide carriage movement is provided by one or more friction brakes coupled to a slide carriage by a pivot frame oriented at an acute angle to the longitudinal frame member on which the carriage travels. The brake thereby provides more resistance in one direction of travel than the other, and the magnitude of resistance is controlled by a small static force bearing on the pivot frame. In one embodiment a logic controller electronically controls this small static force by means of a force feedback loop to simulate a kinesthetic flywheel effect and to reduce shock loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: John H. Duke
  • Patent number: 6558296
    Abstract: An exercise bicycle includes a bottom frame, a fork and front support coupled to the bottom frame and extending upward, handlebars moveably coupled to a top of the fork, a flywheel rotationally coupled to the fork, a rear support coupled to the bottom frame extending upward and supporting a seat. The seat and flywheel define a longitudinal axis, the bottom frame is oriented substantially parallel thereto, a support bar being coupled to the bottom frame and the rear support, a stack of resistance plates coupled to the top of the front support, additional stacks of plates coupled near the bottom of the front support, near the second end of the bottom support and coupled to the support bar, wherein each stack of plates consists of individual resistance plates oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Cuthbert Leonard Herb, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6547702
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided which includes a surface for supporting a body of a user and a frame(s) for supporting the surface(s) above a floor. Resistance device(s) are connected to the device for providing resistance to movement of the user. A mechanism(s) may be provided for changing the orientation of the surface relative to the floor during an exercise routine. Also mechanism(s) may be provided for changing the orientation of the resistance devise(s) relative to the floor during an exercise routine. And mechanism(s) may be provided for changing the orientation of the surface(s) and the resistance devise(s) relative to the floor and to each other during an exercise routine. The resistance devise(s) may include component(s) for converting user motion into energy, electricity, etc. to power the exercise devise. Display device(s) may be provided to display various information relating to an exercise routine(s) to the user and to other(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Innovative Applications, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Heidecke
  • Patent number: 6544146
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm driven member, a leg driven member, and a transmission assembly interconnected between the arm driven member and the leg driven member. At least one of the arm driven member and the leg driven member is pivotally connected to the frame. The transmission assembly is interconnected between the arm driven member and the leg driven member in such a manner that the two members are synchronized with respect to direction of movement and subject to independent influences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 6540646
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a leg driven member pivotally mounted on the frame, and a handlebar pivotally mounted on the frame and movably connected to the leg driven member. The point of interconnection between the handlebar and the leg driven member is adjustable relative to the pivot axis of the leg driven member. Adjustment toward the pivot axis causes the handlebar stroke to decrease, and conversely, adjustment away from the pivot axis causes the handlebar stroke to increase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 6533708
    Abstract: The exercise apparatus of the present invention includes a base, a resistance device mounted to the base, a pair of foot pedal assemblies mounted to rotate in relation to the base, a pair of upright support assemblies mounted to the base and a pair of hand crank assemblies mounted to the upright support members. The resistance device includes a rotating element which turns when a torque is applied to it. The hand crank assemblies, the foot pedal assemblies and the rotating element of the resistance device are all operatively interconnected so that an operator can turn the rotating element of the resistance device by turning the foot pedal assemblies, by turning the hand crank assemblies or by turning both the foot pedal assemblies and the hand crank assemblies simultaneously at the same rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Blake Taggett
  • Publication number: 20020198082
    Abstract: The present invention provides the improvement of a free-standing base supporting a recumbent seat that may be used with any of a number of different existing pedal-operated exercise machines having only upright seats. The base is designed to be removably attached to the existing exercise machine to avoid separation during use, the seat being laterally and vertically adjustable by the user. In an alternative embodiment, the base and recumbent seat may be integrated into and made part of the underlying exercise device itself. Optional handles may also be provided on the recumbent seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Joe Arroyo
  • Patent number: 6461280
    Abstract: Training apparatus that includes a base unit and foot plates moveably arranged on the base unit for movement in opposite directions and in an essentially same plane. The foot plates are adapted to accommodate the feet of a user. A support unit, which is adapted to support at least one of upper extremities or a head region of the user, is rotatable around an axis essentially perpendicular to the same plane. A transmission mechanism is coupled to the foot plates and the support unit so that movement of the foot plates is transformed into rotational movement of the support unit around the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Technoworld GmbH
    Inventor: Franz Benedikter
  • Publication number: 20020137601
    Abstract: A stationary exercise device includes a drive mechanism attached to a supporting frame. A pair of foot pedals are attached to crank shafts extending from a crank wheel of the drive mechanism for actuating the drive mechanism. Handlebars extend upwardly with respect to the frame in either a stationary position within a holder attached to the frame, or within vertical tubes associated with the foot pedals to promote upper body exercise. A fan wheel of the drive mechanism is operatively connected to the crank wheel and includes a plurality of fins extending therefrom and configured to circulate air. A cover is positioned over the fan wheel and has a series of slots formed in an outer surface thereof for directing the circulated air onto an exerciser using the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Andrew J. Tobias, Vincent Zarlengo
  • Patent number: 6447428
    Abstract: A passive exercise device to exercise a person's legs that can be easily moved and efficiently stored in a corner of a room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Motorcizer Corporation
    Inventor: James Morris McKillip
  • Patent number: 6443876
    Abstract: A waist exerciser includes a casing supported on two support posts and two blocks are rotatably connected to two ends of a shaft in the casing. A locking member is movably received in each of the blocks and has a plurality of first holes. Each of the blocks has a plurality of second holes which are located in alignment with the first holes. A belt has two ends which of which has a pin for inserting in the aligned first hole and second hole. Each of the pins has a groove and a periphery of the first hole is movably engaged with the groove so as to prevent the pin from disengaging from the holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Yu-Tong Huang
  • Patent number: 6419611
    Abstract: An exercise device having two chambers, underlying two elastic membrane portions, in a position to closely support above the ground, the left and right foot respectively, of a user. A support structure such as a housing for the first and second membrane portions permit raising and lowering, as by shifting body weight, of the left and right foot in a stair stepping action, preferably without raising each foot from contact with the membrane portions to elastically stretch the membrane portions in succession. A fluid underlies the first and second elastic membrane portions. The fluid preferably is displaced by the stretching of each membrane portion and in the preferred embodiments, it acts with the membrane portions to support the body of a user in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: FitnessLab, LLC
    Inventors: James H. Levine, Douglas L. Sheadel, Peter A. Latham
  • Patent number: 6368260
    Abstract: An exercise system for persons with physical disabilities consisting of an upholstered chair having a table top mounted on the two arms, a support step having a pedal assembly mounted in a slots, a “T” support inserted into the table top mounting bracket, elastic straps affixed to the back of the chair, and a plurality of exercisers attached to the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Stanley Crews
  • Patent number: 6361479
    Abstract: A recumbent apparatus for exercise and physical therapy providing a lower body workout, an upper body workout and cardiovascular conditioning, the apparatus comprising a frame having a forward end and a rearward end, the frame generally defining a longitudinal axis extending between the forward and rearward ends, a seat supported by the frame, a left leg assembly and a right leg assembly, the leg assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement about a pivot axis transverse to the longitudinal axis, the leg assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending leg lever terminating in a pedal, a left arm assembly and a right arm assembly, the arm assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement also about the pivot axis, the arm assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending arm lever terminating in a handle, the left leg assembly being connected to the right arm assembly enabling movement therewith and de
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Nustep, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Hildebrandt, Todd A. Sutton, Steve W. Sarns
  • Patent number: 6328677
    Abstract: A small machine that can be removably mounted on a wall and may be used while sitting or standing to provide aerobic exercise without requiring the use of the legs. The machine simulates the action of a kayak by using an alternating power strokes from the arms, with an inertial component and adjustable retarding forces created by frictional and various speed-dependent mechanisms. A unidirectionally-rotating flywheel simulates the mass of the kayak plus operator, while friction pads, an eddy current generator and air vanes operating on the flywheel provide additional retarding forces. Various ways to grip the ends of the cord are provided, including individual hand grips and a single long shaft with or without paddles at either end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Raoul East Drapeau
  • Publication number: 20010029222
    Abstract: The invention exercise apparatus includes a base, a resistance device mounted in a fixed relationship to the base, a pair of foot pedal assemblies mounted to rotate in relation to the base, a pair of upright support assemblies mounted to the base and a pair of hand crank assemblies mounted to the upright support members. The resistance device includes a rotating element which turns when a torque is applied to it. The hand crank assemblies, the foot pedal assemblies and the rotating element of the resistance device are all operatively interconnected so that so that an operator can turn the rotating element of the resistance device by turning the of foot pedal assemblies, by turning the hand crank assemblies or by turning both the foot pedal assemblies and the hand crank assemblies simultaneously at the same rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Taggett
  • Patent number: 6220991
    Abstract: An exercise bicycle includes a frame having a pedal assembly mounted thereon. The pedal assembly is interlinked with an electric motor, a fan blade type wheel and a reciprocable handle bar assembly whereby the motor automatically rotates the pedal crank assembly and reciprocates the handle bars to provide a light, assisted workout to a physically challenged person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: David H. Sellers
  • Patent number: 6159132
    Abstract: An oval-tracked exercise device includes a base assembly, a supporting frame assembly fastened on the base assembly, a treadle crank assembly fastened on the rear end of the supporting frame assembly and a wheel assembly fastened at the bottom end of the supporting frame assembly. The bottoms of the treadles have bottom shafts which are fixed to the bottom ends of the front standing shafts. In treading, the transmission gear assembly will be driven by the bottom shaft of the treadle crank assembly to rotate the wheel assembly, so that the front standing shafts and the handles are able to make a pivoting movement on the front lateral shaft in order for the user to exercise the whole body. When the handles are inserted into connecting tubes at the front end of the front lateral shaft, the handles are unable to swing with the front standing shaft and the user is able to exercise only the buttocks without moving the upper body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Jack Chang
  • Patent number: 6155959
    Abstract: A vertically oriented exercise device for working out arms, legs or both arms and legs simultaneously is provided which includes a stationary base having a first adjustable vertical standard attached thereto. A rotatable pedal operated variable tension load wheel is provided near the bottom of the standard, and an adjustable seat is conveniently attached at a central location thereby allowing the user to comfortably sit while also reaching the pedals and hand grips. A second adjustable standard is provided which supports a pair of vertically oriented handles which are pivotally attached at the top of the second standard. The bottoms of these handles are attached through a set of linkages to the pedals on the load wheel. The linkages allow force applied by the user to the handles to directly turn the load wheel. Thus, the legs independently, the arms independently, or both the arms and legs together may be used to operate the load wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Joe Arroyo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6142916
    Abstract: An exercise system and method is utilized with a foot pedal of a stationary bicycle to exercise various body parts including the user's legs, arms, chest, shoulders, back, and abdomen for a complete body workout. The exercise system preferably includes an adapter and a plurality of user interfaces. The adapter is configured to releasably couple one of the foot pedals of the stationary bicycle and one of the plurality of user interfaces. A foot holder serves as one of the plurality of user interfaces. Preferably, the foot holder securely and releasably retains the user's foot. While in use, the user's foot is axially aligned with an axle of the foot pedal and is capable of supplying force to the foot pedal on both the down-stroke and up-stroke portions of the foot pedal's rotation. An external attachment also serves as one of the plurality of user interfaces. The external attachment is preferably designed to transmit force from the user's legs, arms, feet, or hands to the foot pedal of the stationary bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Corp. X Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard H. Byrd
  • Patent number: 6135923
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus has left and right user supporting assemblies which support a person in an upright position relative to an underlying floor surface. The user supporting assemblies are interconnected between the frame and respective left and right cranks in such a manner that rotation of the cranks is linked to movement of respective foot supports and handles through generally vertical paths of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 6132341
    Abstract: A cycling exerciser includes a base having a seat post extended upward from the middle portion of the base. A pair of cranks are rotatably secured to the base at an axle for supporting a pair of foot pedals and for allowing the user to conduct cycling exercises. A handle is rotatably secured to the base and is coupled to the axle by unidirectional bearings and by a sprocket-and-chain device for allowing the handle to unidirectionally drive the axle and to rotate the cranks when the handle is rotated by the user. A spring member may be used for recovering the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Ting Fung Lin
  • Patent number: 6126573
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided that simulates climbing with coordinated arm exercise. Each pedal is connected to a pair of swing arms that are pivoted above the pedals to guide each pedal alternately downward and rearwards then forward and upwards. Arm exercise is coordinated with each pedal to position the hand proximate the user when the pedal of that body side is forward and upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
  • Patent number: 6080088
    Abstract: The apparatus converts reciprocating motion of a rowing type exercise into single direction rotational motion of a shaft in a predetermined direction. A reciprocable arm of a rowing type exercise is pivotally mounted to a frame. A shaft, set for rotation in the frame has first and second one way clutches. First and second racks are mounted with respect to the reciprocable arm and engage one or the other of the one way clutches for driving the shaft in a predetermined direction of rotation as the arms are reciprocated. One or the other clutches freewheels against its respective rack when one of the racks is moved in to drive the shaft and thereby retains the driving rack in engagement with its respective one way clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Bioform Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul S. Petersen, James F. Ster, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6045489
    Abstract: An exercise device having two chambers, underlying two elastic membrane portions, in a position to closely support above the ground, the left and right foot respectively, of a user. A support structure such as a housing for the first and second membrane portions permit raising and lowering, as by shifting body weight, of the left and right foot in a stair stepping action, preferably without raising each foot from contact with the membrane portions to elastically stretch the membrane portions in succession. A fluid underlies the first and second elastic membrane portions. The fluid preferably is displaced by the stretching of each membrane portion and in the preferred embodiments, it acts with the membrane portions to support the body of a user in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: PowerSource LLC
    Inventors: James H. Levine, Douglas L. Sheadel, Peter A. Latham
  • Patent number: 6042518
    Abstract: A recumbent apparatus for exercise and physical therapy providing a lower body workout, an upper body workout and cardiovascular conditioning, the apparatus comprising a frame having a forward end and a rearward end, the frame generally defining a longitudinal axis extending between the forward and rearward ends, a seat supported by the frame, a left leg assembly and a right leg assembly, the leg assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement about a pivot axis transverse to the longitudinal axis, the leg assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending leg lever terminating in a pedal, a left arm assembly and a right arm assembly, the arm assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement also about the pivot axis, the arm assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending arm lever terminating in a handle, the left leg assembly being connected to the right arm assembly enabling movement therewith and de
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: NuStep, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Hildebrandt, Todd A. Sutton, Steve W. Sarns
  • Patent number: 6001046
    Abstract: Collapsible recumbent exercise bicycle apparatus wherein the seat is pivotably coupled to the base and the seat back is pivotably coupled to the seat. The seat and seat back are therefore convertible between an upright user-supporting configuration and a folded storage configuration. Further, the base is telescopically collapsible to reduce the footprint of the apparatus for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: LifeGear, Inc.
    Inventor: Sam Chang
  • Patent number: 6001071
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Brian R. Butler
  • Patent number: 5989162
    Abstract: An exercise device including a frame having an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion. The upper frame portion supports an arm exercise member for exercising the arms of a user, and the lower frame portion supports a leg exercise member for exercising the legs of the user. The device is provided with a mechanism for adjusting the height of the arm exercise member relative to the leg exercise member. In addition, the frame for the device includes a pivot joint whereby the device may be folded from a use configuration to a storage configuration which is approximately one-half the height of the use configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Tyrone S. Daniels
  • Patent number: 5980431
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus comprising a stationary frame, a wheel rotatably mounted to the frame; a first drive unit mounted to the frame, a second drive unit mounted to the frame and operatively connected to the wheel and a first clutch mounted to the frame and being operatively connected to the first drive unit and being selectively engaged with or disengaged from the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: John Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5967944
    Abstract: A cross-training exercise apparatus includes a base, a pair of foot supports pivotally and slidably joined to the base by way of a linkage assembly interposed between each foot support and the base. Each linkage assembly accommodates a pivotal movement of a corresponding foot support relative to the base between forward and rearward positions and accommodates a movement of each foot support relative to the base between raised and lowered positions. The exercise apparatus also includes a pair of cable and pulley arrangements which are associated with the base and joined between the foot supports for coordinating the movement of the foot supports between forward and rearward positions or between upward and downward positions so that movement of one foot support relative to the base effects a corresponding movement of the other foot support relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventors: Larry W. Vittone, Suzanne R. Vittone
  • Patent number: 5964682
    Abstract: A full body reciprocating aerobic exercise machine that forces all of a user's limbs to move during the exercise. Because all the leg and arm levers move in unison, it allows a user to maintain the proper exercise motion even with an injured, incapacitated, or missing limb. The machine simulates uphill running or walking, and eliminates any joint impact to the user. The machine includes a central torso stabilization support, two leg levers, and two arm levers. The torso support and the leg and arm levers are mounted on a machine base. The leg and arm levers are rotatable through a limited but large arc relative to the torso support. The levers are synchronized so that the left leg lever must move with the right arm lever, and the right leg lever must move with the left arm lever, and so that all four levers move simultaneously. Because of this synchronization, the machine utilizes a "cross-crawl" motion that is completely natural to any user. A user's learning time is therefore minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Steven D. Sokol