Rowing Patents (Class 482/72)
  • Patent number: 6923749
    Abstract: A full-body exercise machine. The exercise machine includes a first mechanism that enables a user to selectively apply positive resistance to a first leg and/or a second leg independently or simultaneously. The resistance is applied during pushing and/or pulling motions as the first leg and/or the second leg move in opposite or similar directions relative to the second leg and/or first leg, respectively. A second mechanism selectively applies positive resistance to a first arm and/or a second arm independently or simultaneously, in different or similar directions. The resistance is applied during pushing and/or pulling motions. A third mechanism facilitates abdominal crunches, leg tucks, and/or back hyperextensions while exercising the legs and the arms via the first and second mechanisms. In a specific embodiment, the third mechanism includes a seatback linked to the first and/or second mechanisms so that actuation of the first or second mechanisms causes actuation of the seatback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Barry Stewart Smith
  • Patent number: 6916278
    Abstract: A composite motion exercise machine has a main frame, a user support, an exercise arm, a movable wedge, a connecting device, and a load. The user support and exercise arm are pivotally linked directly or indirectly to the main frame, and the movable wedge has first and second travel members in moving engagement with rails on the main frame and user support, respectively. The connecting device links the movable wedge to the exercise arm, such that movement of the exercise arm moves the wedge along the rails to lift the user support in an arcuate path away from the main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Publication number: 20040259703
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus which provides an arch-shaped bench and resistance means which can be repetitively manipulated whilst a person lies on their back or stomach on the bench. Exercise in this manner is claimed to be greatly beneficial to both the stomach and lower back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Kim Goh
  • Patent number: 6830542
    Abstract: A rowing weight training machine includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a generally longitudinal stroke path between a forward position and a rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by an exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm (preferably via a universal ball joint) such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Ball, Gregory M. Webb
  • Patent number: 6827675
    Abstract: The exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a carriage. A resistance system resists movement of the carriage with respect to the frame and the longitudinally headward direction. The resistance system allows the resistance to be changed at the head end portion of the frame and further does not require elastic members to travel with the carriage when they are not use. The rebound system that adjusts the range of motion of the carriage comprises two flexible members attached to the carriage and the frame and a resistance member is attached to a central portion of the flexible members and resists lateral seperation of the central portions of the flexible members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Gary Graham
  • Patent number: 6817968
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a longitudinal rail for slidably supporting a carriage assembly together with the weight of a user. The longitudinal rail is supported at an elevation above a support surface by a fore support structure positioned at the fore end of the rail and by an aft support structure positioned at the aft end of the rail. A carriage assembly slidably engages the rail structure and supports the weight of a user on the rail structure. The carriage assembly includes roller wheels for rolling engagement with the rail. A lever is pivotally connected to the rail and enables a user to operate the exercise machine. The lever has a hand grip assembly at one end and a foot grip assembly at the other end. A resistance structure is connected to and positioned between the fore end of the rail and the carriage assembly and provides resistance to translational movement of the carriage assembly and pivotal movement of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Galbraith, Roger Dahle
  • Patent number: 6793610
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus is disclosed which can be easily collapsed for shipping or storage but which is easily assembled for use. The apparatus includes an upper frame member pivotally attached to the forward end of a longitudinally extending lower base frame member. The upper frame member supports a seat including a bottom that is movable so as to be parallel to the frame member for shipping or perpendicular for use. An elongated rod has one end pivoted to the upper frame member. The other end is pivoted to a collar that surrounds the base frame member and moves along a length thereof between a shipping position where the frame members are parallel to each other and an operative position where the upper frame member extends upwardly. A pin and aperture arrangement locks the frame members in the selected position. A pair of movable arms with handles connected to an adjustable force resistor allows a user to perform a variety of exercises of the arms and upper body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: James A. Deola
  • Publication number: 20040180761
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a shaft rotatably disposed on a base, a housing rotatably engaged on the shaft and having a chamber formed by an outer peripheral wall which has a groove, a belt wound around the tube for rotating the housing, a barrel received in the chamber of the housing and secured to the shaft and having a slot. A coil spring is received in the housing and has two ends engaged into the slot of the barrel and the groove of the outer peripheral wall of the housing. A cover includes a space formed by an outer peripheral fence, to suitably enclose the chamber of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Jiann Bang Liou
  • Patent number: 6767314
    Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible exercise apparatus, generally comprising a riser assembly, a carriage assembly, riser assembly support means, and peripheral attachments. The riser assembly further comprises a pair of parallel riser members and the carriage assembly further comprises a riser-engaging end. The riser-engaging end is received between the riser members in a carriage assembly-receiving track. The user may thus selectively incline the carriage assembly in the carriage assembly-receiving track in this operational state for exerting muscular effort against varying degrees of the user's own body weight resistance to achieve some level of physical activity or as part of an otherwise regular exercise regimen. To enable easy horizontal transferability, for example, during shipping or when not in use, the carriage assembly is easily nested within the carriage assembly-receiving track. Additionally, no tools are required to assemble or collapse the exercise apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6761670
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a wheel and a housing rotatably engaged on a shaft, a unidirectional bearing disposed between the wheel and the housing for allowing the wheel to be rotated in an active direction by the housing and to be prevented from rotating in a reverse direction by the housing. A strap may be used to rotate the housing in the active direction. A spring may bias the housing to rotate in the reverse direction, and will not bias the wheel when the spring biases the housing to rotate backward in the reverse direction, such that the spring will not be damaged by the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jiann Bang Liou
  • Patent number: 6752745
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus utilized for toning and building muscles in different areas of the body, including the arms, chest, shoulders, abdominal muscles, thighs, calves, and hips. The exercise apparatus has a support assembly, having a horizontal bottom support bar, and various components positioned along the support bar. The components include a seat assembly located at the rear end, a pair of thigh press bars located at the middle portion, a foot support assembly located at the front end, and elastic bands. The elastic bands are attached between different movable parts of the apparatus in order to provide resistance to the user when attempting to move such movable parts with respect to each other while exercising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Everton Davis
  • Patent number: 6749546
    Abstract: A structure of an exercising apparatus as a rowboat including mainly a housing and a base skeleton, the housing includes a handle, a drawing element, a pedaling portion, a display device, a sensor and a reeling axle. When the handle is drawn backwards to move, the drawing element is moved to leave the housing and to move the reeling axle, so that part of the drawing element having been reeled in is reeled off the reeling axle; when the drawing force is stopped, the reeling axle reels back automatically to reel back the drawing element to thereby restore the drawing element and the handle to their original positions. A user can pull the handle to and fro to simulate the action of rowing a boat. The functioning elements are received in the housing, the pedaling portion can be folded to be hidden in the bottoms of the two sides of the housing, the base skeleton can be extended and contracted, so that the effect of saving space after use and the effect of exercising can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Lien-Chaun Yang
  • Patent number: 6746385
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a frame, a seat and a pair of articulated exercise arm assemblies. Each of the exercise arm assemblies is pivotally attached to the frame with a four bar linkage. Handles at the outer extremities of the articulated arm assemblies are gripped by the user to perform the intended exercise. The geometry of the arms and their pivot points is arranged so that the handles of the articulated assemblies follow arcuate paths which converge as the handles are moved forwardly. At a starting position for a press exercise, the handles are approximately in line with the shoulders of the user. As the handles are pushed forwardly against an exercise resistance, they converge inwardly until they are nearly touching when the user's arms are fully outstretched. The machine may also be used to perform a seated-row exercise, in which case the handles are pulled rearwardly against the exercise resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore G. Habing
  • Patent number: 6733429
    Abstract: A multimode exerciser for muscles and muscle-groups stretch exercises has three horizontal platforms disposed along a horizontal rigid frame or bar elevated above ground. One platform near one end of the frame serves as a seat, while another platform near the foot-end services as a foot/ankle rest. An intermediate platform serves also as a foot rest for certain, different, exercises other than those using the foot-end rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Nash Nizamuddin
  • Publication number: 20040043874
    Abstract: A structure of an exercising apparatus as a rowboat including mainly a housing and a base skeleton, the housing includes a handle, a drawing element, a pedaling portion, a display device, a sensor and a reeling axle. When the handle is drawn backwards to move, the drawing element is moved to leave the housing and to move the reeling axle, so that part of the drawing element having been reeled in is reeled off the reeling axle; when the drawing force is stopped, the reeling axle reels back automatically to reel back the drawing element to thereby restore the drawing element and the handle to their original positions. A user can pull the handle to and fro to simulate the action of rowing a boat. The functioning elements are received in the housing, the pedaling portion can be folded to be hidden in the bottoms of the two sides of the housing, the base skeleton can be extended and contracted, so that the effect of saving space after use and the effect of exercising can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventor: Lien-Chuan Yang
  • Patent number: 6692412
    Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus structure comprised of a base, an inclined support structure at the upper extent of the base, and a transport pulley assembly installed above the base. The support structure consists of an arrangement in which one end is on the floor and the other end is angularly positioned on the base. The pull cord is on the floor and the other end is angularly positioned on the base. The pull cord of the transport pulley assembly is respectively wrapped around a first pulley at the lateral end of the upper horizontal bar and positioned onto a second pulley at the bottom end of the reclined body rest buttress rod, following which it is wrapped around a third pulley at the other end of the upper horizontal bar, the two free ends of the pull cord then providing the user extremities for exerting a tugging force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: Shu-Yi Chen, Wan-Chen Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6689027
    Abstract: An automatic spotting weight bench used to support a weight bar and create an escape opening after a failed bench press lift. In one of the embodiments, a foot release mechanism and mechanical knuckle work in conjunction to drop the head end of the weight bench so that the weights are resting on a pair of support bars. In one embodiment, there is a means of controlling the drop of the weight bench so that it is lowered gently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: David Gardikis, Jr.
  • 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: 6679814
    Abstract: A rower exerciser includes a frame which is disposed on the floor to serve as a supporting frame, a slide rail connected between front end rear ends of the frame, and a slide seat slidably mounted on the rail to slidably reciprocate along the rail and being adapted for sitting by the user. Two sides of a front end of the slide rail are respectively connected to outwardly extending curved arm frames. Each of the arm frames is connected pivotally to a rocker via a universal connector. The rocker and a respective one of the arm frames are connected pivotally to a hydraulic rod via a pivot seat. By adjusting the foot pedals and the slide seat to be in a fixed mode or a slidable mode, and by virtue of the universal connector and the pivot seat, the rockers can rotatably swing to enable the user to simulate actual rowing actions and to provide various exercising effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Tseng Chung-Ting
  • Publication number: 20040009849
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a longitudinal rail for slidably supporting a carriage assembly together with the weight of a user. The longitudinal rail is supported at an elevation above a support surface by a fore support structure positioned at the fore end of the rail and by an aft support structure positioned at the aft end of the rail. A carriage assembly slidably engages the rail structure and supports the weight of a user on the rail structure. The carriage assembly includes roller wheels for rolling engagement with the rail. A lever is pivotally connected to the rail and enables a user to operate the exercise machine. The lever has a hand grip assembly at one end and a foot grip assembly at the other end. A resistance structure is connected to and positioned between the fore end of the rail and the carriage assembly and provides resistance to translational movement of the carriage assembly and pivotal movement of the lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Galbraith, Roger Dahle
  • Publication number: 20030216227
    Abstract: The current invention disclosed a device for directing a concentrated airflow at the user of an air resisted exercise machine. The cowling disclosed in this invention is constructed from either a semi-rigid material or low-porosity fabric and can be removably attached to the cage covering the fan type blades usually associated with such machines. Various means can be used to attach the device to the cage, one means being the use of elastic cords routed through welts. In use, the device of the current invention directs air at the user of the machine. The device is lightweight and portable, and a user can carry the device along for use on machines in a variety of places.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Paul Vaughn Smith
  • Patent number: 6634996
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus utilizing a wheeled rolling carriage which moves on a incline frame and includes an adjustable arm cable mounting assembly. The arm cable mounting system includes a pair of elongated arm cables each entrained over a fixed pulley mounted in each adjustable upright corner post. An anchoring device attach the cables to the mobile carriage. The carriage moves on the frame against a resistance force provided by the body weight of the user seating or lying on the platform and the up words angled slope of the incline frame. A back and head support connects the platform. An attachable rowing device is mounted to the incline rails and connected to the mobile carriage through the cables assembly. A leg push device is connected to the rails frame at the lower end. An weights support arm is attached to the lower end of mobile carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Neill Jacobsen
  • Publication number: 20030166438
    Abstract: A swinging implement for simulating a rowing exercise comprises a supporting framework, which can be caused to bear on a floor by supporting elements, and including a seat plane, which can freely slide along the supporting framework, characterized in that said swinging implement comprises moreover swinging means for causing said supporting framework to swing with respect to a floor, thereby inducing a user to search equilibrium conditions during the gymnic exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Federico Gramaccioni
  • Publication number: 20030153437
    Abstract: A rower exerciser includes a frame which is disposed on the floor to serve as a supporting frame, a slide rail connected between front end rear ends of the frame, and a slide seat slidably mounted on the rail to slidably reciprocate along the rail and being adapted for sitting by the user. Two sides of a front end of the slide rail are respectively connected to outwardly extending curved arm frames. Each of the arm frames is connected pivotally to a rocker via a universal connector. The rocker and a respective one of the arm frames are connected pivotally to a hydraulic rod via a pivot seat. By adjusting the foot pedals and the slide seat to be in a fixed mode or a slidable mode, and by virtue of the universal connector and the pivot seat, the rockers can rotatably swing to enable the user to simulate actual rowing actions and to provide various exercising effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Chung-Ting Tseng
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20030134719
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a wheel and a housing rotatably engaged on a shaft, a unidirectional bearing disposed between the wheel and the housing for allowing the wheel to be rotated in an active direction by the housing and to be prevented from rotating in a reverse direction by the housing. A strap may be used to rotate the housing in the active direction. A spring may bias the housing to rotate in the reverse direction, and will not bias the wheel when the spring biases the housing to rotate backward in the reverse direction, such that the spring will not be damaged by the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Jiann Bang Liou
  • Patent number: 6585274
    Abstract: A portable luggage carrier, and, more particularly, to such a carrier having an exercise means associated therewith. The portable carrier comprises a support member or means for supporting the luggage. A fold out platform means connected to the support means for holding the luggage is provided and the carrier has a collapsible wheel means affixed to the support means in association with a handle means affixed to the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Pharmaceuticals Resources, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth I. Sawyer
  • Patent number: 6569065
    Abstract: The invention relates to different embodiments of an exercises apparatus in which the pulling motion exerted on a cable system is transmitted to a brake device so as to generate a load on the user. The invention relates in particular to examples of how the apparatus can be used to simulate different kinds of movements. To this end the apparatus has a modular structure and/or advantageous mechanical additional elements of the apparatus permit a multiple use thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventors: Elmar Menold, Jürgen Steinacker
  • Patent number: 6533707
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a folding mechanism for an exercise treadmill having a U-shaped handrail, each end of the U-shaped handrail is pivotably connected to a vertical part of the supporting arm by a second pivot. A connection rod extends downwards from either side of the U-shaped handrail, and is pivotally connected to a pull rod by a third pivot. An end of each of the pull rods is pivotably secured to the corresponding position of the frame by a fourth pivot. Accordingly, when the U-shaped handrail is raised and turned on the second pivot, the connection rod will also be moved to bring the pull rod to shift upwards. Thereafter, the frame is turned on the first pivot to be raised to the top for completing the folding step of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
  • Patent number: 6527685
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus comprises a telescopic rectangular frame, a movable carriage mounted on the frame for supporting a user, and an elongated elastic member extending between the frame and the movable carriage for biasing the carriage toward the one end of the frame. The telescopic rectangular frame has a first frame section and a second frame section that each includes two spaced apart parallel tubular rail members. One set of rail members is telescopically received in the other set of rail members so that the frame is selectively movable between a first storage position and an extended operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Ken Endelman, Brian Janowski
  • Patent number: 6514181
    Abstract: Apparatus and Method providing optimal duplication of the double-poling technique used in cross-county skiing. The apparatus includes dual hand grips that are adapted to “wrap” around a user's torso. The dual hand grips are attached by a cable or other suitable connector to a force generator. Because of the shape of the dual hand grips, the user can perform near-ideal double-poling technique in which the dual hand grips are first positioned above and in front of a user, and are then moved in a downward arc with the dual hand grips moving past the body plane to a movement-ending position in back of the person. In the Method of the present invention, a suitable stationary-rowing machine is adapted and modified to exhibit the characteristics of the Apparatus of the present invention. The longitudinal frame of such a stationary-rowing machine is placed in a substantially vertical orientation and the dual hand grips are interlocked with the operator handle of the stationary-rowing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Richard W. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20020187879
    Abstract: A rowing weight training machine includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a generally longitudinal stroke path between a forward position and a rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by an exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm (preferably via a universal ball joint) such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Benjamin Ball, Gregory M. Webb
  • Publication number: 20020173410
    Abstract: A sports equipment comprises a main frame including a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm connected to one another, and further including a first rod and a second rod which are laterally arranged at the front end of the first arm while said first rod is spaced from said second rod; a night and left swinging mechanisms having same construction, and each including a sleeve which has a lateral channel for insertion of one of the first and second rods to be pivotally connected thereon, a handlebar fixedly secured to one end of the sleeve, a link secured to the other end of the sleeve, a pedal pivotally connected to the lower end of the link, and a piston having one end pivotally connected to one end of the first rod and another end pivotally connected to the link; and a seat assembly including a seat fixedly secured to the first arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Hsueh Sen Liao, Tian Yow Hwang
  • Patent number: 6482133
    Abstract: The seat (10) of a training device is connected via parallelogram arms (6a, 6b) to a base frame (2) so that it can execute circular-segment movements in reference to the base frame. A training force transmission frame (26) is articulated to a parallelogram arm, and one end is mounted to a crank mechanism (22) that acts on a belt pulley (24) which is connected via a belt (24) to a flywheel (38). A brake (40) (against which the trainee works) acts on the flywheel. A grip holder (30) with handgrips (32) extends upward from the transmission frame (26) before the seat. Footrests (18) are also provided on the base frame (2). The relative movements between the seat (10), the transmission frame (26) that executes a combined lengthwise and swinging motion, and the base frame (2) allow force to be exerted from the seat via the hand grips to the transmission frame to exercise the arms and upper body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Dieter Miehlich
  • Patent number: 6478721
    Abstract: This invention is an abdominal, and low back exercise machine used to tone and strengthen the muscles of the user. The machine includes a frame upon which a slidable foot rest or carriage and a seat are attached. The machine additionally includes a harness coupled to the carriage through a strap such that as the harness moves in a first direction, the carriage moves in the opposite second direction along the frame. The harness is placed around the shoulders and neck of the user such that when the user sits on the seat and brings the shoulders towards the knees, the legs will be drawn up to the shoulders by the movement of the carriage. This exercise device strengthens the user's upper and lower abdominal muscles. The machine further includes an exercise ball which supports the back or stomach while performing hyper-extension type exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: James C. Hunter
  • Patent number: 6468188
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus particularly designed to strengthen the gluteus and hamstring muscles is disclosed. A pivot arm includes a weight arm which can be loaded with weights as desired. The pivot arm pivots in a longitudinal direction at one side of the base of the apparatus. The pivot arm includes a paddled hip engagement bar which extends over the base. A handhold member is mounted to the base and is pivotable at a right angle to the pivot movement of the pivot arm. A latching on the pivot arm can engage a catch on the handhold member when the apparatus to be placed is in a parked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Jam'n Fitness Corp.
    Inventor: Larry D. Koenig
  • Patent number: 6440045
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise apparatus which is pivotally adjustable. The apparatus is configured to rest on a floor and support a user's hands and knees during operation and includes a guide member having at least one elongate rail, a movable support member mounted to the elongate rail for slidable movement thereon and a stationary base with the guide member being pivotably mounted to the stationary base for angular adjustment of the guide member relative to the stationary base about an axis substantially perpendicular to the floor. The guide member can be pivoted relative to the stationary base to position the guide member angularly from the stationary base for conditioning abdominal oblique muscles. Furthermore, the guide member can be pivoted approximately 180° to facilitate storage and transport of the apparatus. In an embodiment, control over the sliding resistance between the movable support member and the elongate rail of the guide member is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Kerry R. Gaston
  • Publication number: 20020115537
    Abstract: A rowing exercise machine comprises a base, a seat mounted on the base, two rowing rods pivotally mounted on the base, an actuating wheel having a shaft rod, two crank rods fastened at one end with the shaft rod, and a damping device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Lin
  • Patent number: 6428450
    Abstract: A sit-up exercising apparatus includes a base frame fixedly provided with a seat cushion, a swinging back cushion pivoted to a middle part of the base frame and turned up and down within an angle, a stop frame bar adjustably fastened to the base frame to limit the swinging angle of the swinging back cushion, two smoothly curved tracks provided at two sides of the base frame, and two handles connected in parallel to the swinging back cushion and respectively slidably coupled to the smoothly curved tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventors: Wei-Teh Ho, Keith Mirchandani
  • Publication number: 20020065174
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a base including a seat for supporting a user, a back frame rotatably secured on the base with a pivot axle for supporting the back of the user and for allowing the user to force and to rotate the back frame relative to the base about the pivot axle. A foot support is slidable relative to the base and selectively coupled to the back frame for allowing the back frame and the foot support to be moved in concert with each other. The back frame includes one or more brackets selectively secured to the base and the foot support with fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventor: Paul Chen
  • Patent number: 6394938
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that exercises at least four groups of muscles is disclosed. The exercise apparatus exercises at least the calf muscles, the hamstring muscles, the quadriceps muscles and the maximus gluteus muscle. The apparatus utilizes a seated position and incorporates an elastomeric tension member to provide the resistance. The exercise apparatus incorporates a backrest and a footrest. When a person exercising pushes against the backrest, the backrest rotates listing the person exercising such that the four muscle groups are exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Dean Tornabene
  • Publication number: 20020055423
    Abstract: An angle-adjustable rowing exerciser, which includes a wheeled base frame, a fixed mattress and a pivoted mattress supported on the base frame, a transverse frame bar pivotally mounted on the base frame at the bottom, two handlebars respectively adjustably connected to two adjustable ratchet connectors at the ends of the transverse frame bar for turning by hand to rotate the transverse frame bar, and two actuating bars perpendicularly and fixedly connected to the transverse frame bar and forced to tilt the base frame or the movable mattress up and down upon turning of the handlebars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Casey, Sung-Chao Ho
  • Patent number: 6383122
    Abstract: The exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a carriage. A resistance system resists movement of the carriage with respect to the frame and the longitudinally headward direction. The resistance system allows the resistance to be changed at the head end portion of the frame and further does not require elastic members to travel with the carriage when they are not use. The rebound system that adjusts the range of motion of the carriage comprises two flexible members attached to the carriage and the frame and a resistance member is attached to a central portion of the flexible members and resists lateral seperation of the central portions of the flexible members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Gary Graham
  • Patent number: 6371892
    Abstract: Exercising is made more comfortable and effective by providing a foot rest that has a front end which holds the ball of the user's foot fixed and a back end that both cradles the user's heel and allows the user to pivot his heel around the ball of his foot in a natural manner. The frame of the machine can be easily and repeatedly taken apart and put back together because it has two arms which mate at a connector that can be mated and unmated by simple pivoting of the two arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Concept II, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Dreissigacker, Peter D. Dreissigacker, Jonathan V. Williams
  • Patent number: 6371895
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises a generally rectangular extruded aluminum frame having a head end and a foot end and including a pair of spaced apart parallel track members wherein the head end, the foot end, and the track or rail members are each formed from the same metal extrusion material and have the same cross sectional shape. The extruded shape comprises a closed middle portion, an outer T shaped slot portion, and an inner C shaped support channel portion and may include one or more screw races in the closed middle portion for forming a solid mitered connection at the comers of the frame. The apparatus includes a movable carriage mounted on the frame for movement along the rail members between the head and foot ends against one or more resistance members connected between the carriage and the foot end of the frame. The exercise apparatus may include a foot bar assembly that permits a foot bar to be rotated between various positions via a quick release arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Ken Endelman, Brian Janowski
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020022558
    Abstract: An angle-adjustable rowing exerciser, which includes a wheeled base frame, a fixed mattress and a pivoted mattress supported on the base frame, a transverse frame bar pivotally mounted on the base frame at the bottom, two handlebars respectively adjustably connected to two adjustable ratchet connectors at the ends of the transverse frame bar for turning by hand to rotate the transverse frame bar, and two actuating bars perpendicularly and fixedly connected to the transverse frame bar and forced to tilt the base frame or the movable mattress up and down upon turning of the handlebars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Casey
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6302832
    Abstract: An exercise device (10) has a handlebar (30) with handgrips (32) for gripping by a user (U). An adjustment plate member (26) is mounted for pivotal movement about a pivot (28) on a fixed support plate member (18). A seat (58) supports the weight of the user U to resist to the rotation of the adjustment plate (26). A generally horizontal exercise movement is performed by pulling on the handlebar (30) and simultaneously pushing on foot pedals (70) on a foot frame (68) secured to the adjustment plate member (26). The horizontal exercise movement shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be easily converted to a vertical exercise movement shown in FIG. 3 at the discretion of the user (U) by changing the motion exerted against the handlebar (30) by the user (U).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Publication number: 20010027150
    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 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: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: John H. Duke