Abstract: The present invention relates generally to exercising equipment, and more particularly, to an improved multi-use weight lifting apparatus. The present weight lifting apparatus comprises a frame (12), a vertical guide member (52), at least one horizontal guide member (46), a weight bearing bar (60), and a safety catch mechanism (70). This weight lifting apparatus allows a weight lifter to perform exercise with vertical and horizontal ranges of motion that simulate the natural motions of using free weights while providing safety mechanisms that are not available with free weights.

Abstract: The present devices apply resistance force to a user's body in close simulation of the impact and resistive forces experienced in martial arts techniques and interactions to provides more effective muscle and neurological training of the user. The devices include a conformable grip that accepts a user's fist for directing resistive force in a distributed manner to the outside surface of the user's fist. Flexible straps extend from the side of the grip to be positioned, in use, on the sides of a user's arm. The straps are connected by additional cross-straps to allow for transfer of force to the user's forearm. The configuration of straps allows transfer of varying proportions of the resistive force to the fist, and separately, the forearm. A system for physical training includes a resistance device.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprising a weighted spool assembly having a shaft that freely rotates upon bearings. To accelerate the weighted spool assembly, a user applies a pulling force to a strap assembly. With the strap assembly in a coiled position, the user applies the pulling force causing the weighted spool assembly to rotate in a first direction, uncoiling the strap assembly, until the length of the strap assembly is exhausted. Once exhausted, the weighted spool assembly continues to rotate in the first direction causing the strap assembly to coil upon it. While the strap assembly is coiling and to decelerate, the user then applies a resistance force. Once the strap assembly is coiled again, the user reapplies the pulling force causing the weighted spool assembly to rotate in a second direction, uncoiling the strap assembly, until the length of the strap assembly is again exhausted.

Abstract: The invention consists of steel-bead weighted facial exercise weights designed in varying shapes, sizes, and weights. The weights are designed so that they are placed over the face providing resistance against the intended group of facial muscles to be developed. The method is designed for total facial muscle toning and development necessitating the use of varying sized, shapes, and weights that maximize the development of intended muscle group to be developed.

Abstract: A self-sourcing exercise bike with a linear digital control magnetic resistance braking apparatus comprises a generator, a power converter, a digital control system, a magnetic braking resistance and a LED control panel. This apparatus uses a linear control method to control the change of the magnetic resistance, and the magnetic resistance braking apparatus uses a method of changing inductance and a controlling way thereof to achieve the goal of controlling the variation of the magnetic resistance braking force. This bike makes the user or rehabilitant to linearly adjust the resistance force or torque according to the speed of the exercise bike and the presetting resistance force, and easily start up the power system in the initial stage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rope climbing simulator system for allowing a user to simulate ascending and descending rope climbing exercises therewith. The system includes a bead chain of serially connected beads. Each of the beads defines a palmar support portion graspable by the user's hands for moving the bead chain in downward and upward directions. A resistance mechanism is in mechanical communication with the bead chain for providing resistance to the bead chain. The bead chain and the resistance mechanism cooperate to impart flexion of the user's muscles during the exercises.

Abstract: An exercise device for strengthening and enlargement of the penis includes a substantially helical spring including a first lever arm, a central spring section having one end integral with one end of the lever arm, and a second lever arm integral with a second end of the spring section, each lever arm having one free end including a retainer element. The device also includes a selectable weight attachable to the spring section and a first flexible elongate pad having a width and length proportioned for engagement about the penis. The device also includes a flexible cord, having opposing ends attached to respective opposite ends of the first pad, passing through the retainer means of the first lever arm. The device also includes a flexible elongate pad having a width and a length proportioned for engagement about the penis, and a flexible cord having opposing ends attached from respective opposite ends of the second pad, the cord passing through the retainer elements of the second lever arm.

Abstract: A safety mechanism for weightlifting devices checks the uncontrolled descent of weights and/or other structures. Using aligned or other slots, a pawl or dog is biased against the surface containing such slots. In order to operate the weightlifting device, the pawl or dog must be actively disengaged from the slots. Exercise can then occur. However, should the weightlifter's grip relax and release the release lever, the associated biasing system forces the engagement end of the dog into one of the aligned slots halting the further downward travel of the associated weights in supporting structures. An associated weightlifting device is disclosed having a latching mechanism enabling securement of the device in a lowered position.

Abstract: The dumbbell is a weight lifting device. The dumbbell comprises a one piece barrel having integral metal alloy blocks on either side. Transverse and integral holes on the blocks on the end allow insertion of common or modified weight lifting bars. Integral holes on the blocks also have the property of being able to thread in weight slugs of varying poundage and designs in various combinations with the aforementioned weight lifting bars lifting bars. The barrel or handle has a threaded insert in the middle providing the insertion of a ring attachment that would provide an alternate means of mounting on a weight lifting bar. The dumbbell can be mounted on a weight lifting bar via the transverse holes on either head or thru the removable attachment on the handle.

Abstract: A weightlifting belt hook to support additional weight during weight training. The apparatus is attached to the user's weightlifting belt via a hook and holds disk weights generally at the level of the thighs. A downwardly extending stabilizing member configured to extend over the pelvic area and provide an opening extends from the hook, and a weight supporting member extends upwardly and away from the bottom of the downwardly extending stabilizing member. Exercise disk weights are placed over the weight supporting member and rest near the bottom of the weight supporting member.

Abstract: This invention pertains to an improved adjustable kettlebell that has a stack of standard weight plates, a rounded grip section, a support bar serving to hold the weight stack, and flexible attachment members with cutouts for the support bar. The flexible attachment members provide a mechanically compliant clamping arrangement to accommodate weight stack of varying widths, and the cutouts allowing adjustment to the relative distance between the grip axis and the support bar axis. The improved adjustable kettlebell of the current invention serves as a close physical approximation to a solid cast kettlebell with a wide combination of standard weight plates.

Abstract: A rubber compound comprising any raw rubber, from about 5% to about 75% by weight, and a zinc oxide dispersion, from about 25% to about 95% by weight. The specific gravity of the compound is within the range from about 1.4 gm/cc to about 3.4 gm/cc. The resulting material is a soft, pliable and flexible rubber with a relatively high specific gravity. Further, the compound is non-toxic, containing no known hazardous ingredients. The compound is a good alternative to metallic weights or metallic-filled rubbers currently used in the fields of sporting goods, exercise equipment, rehabilitation equipment, and any other manufacturing arenas.

Abstract: A composite motion exercise machine has a main frame device, a user support device pivotally linked to the main frame, an exercise arm device pivotally linked to the main frame device, a slide rail mounted on a first one of said devices, and a traveling member engaging the slide rail for movement along the rail. A first connecting link has a first end connected to the traveling member, and a second end linked to a fixed position on a second one of said devices. A further connection device links the traveling member to the exercise arm device, such that movement of the exercise arm is transferred to the user support to lift the support and user.

Abstract: A handheld device for exercising, rehabilitating and/or strengthening the muscles, tendons and ligament in the hands, wrists and/or forearm, as well as enabling the simultaneous improvement in the full range of motion in these regions. The device includes an elongated adjustable locking member having a lower cushioned hand pad portion and an upper hand pad base, adjustably connected to an elongated finger grip bar. The finger grip bar has a finger grip receiving edge and a post attached to this edge for slidably receiving weights. The device enables the wrists, hands and forearms to work together, enabling the user to exercise an injured or surgically repaired wrist, hand or forearm with the assistance of the uninjured wrist, hand or forearm, thereby reducing the overall duration of time needed for rehabilitation and recovery.

Abstract: A therapeutic arm exercise device which includes a vertical supporting frame for mounting on a vertical wall surface. An upright elongated exercise base board is pivotally secured relative to the frame for selectively positioning and retaining the board at different angles from vertical to less than vertical. An elongated track is provided on the outer surface of the board and a weight slide is slidably received on this track and is provided with a handle whereby a patient may manually slide the slide up and down along the track for rehabilitation exercise. In addition, the vertical position of the device may be adjusted on the wall. Also, the amount of weight for the slide may be adjusted. Indicia is provided on the board adjacent the track for indicating distance that the slide is moved by the patient upwardly along the track and a biofeedback annunciator is also provided to indicate attainment of a goal distance of upward movement along the track by the slide.

Abstract: A cord-winding exercise apparatus for exercising wrists and forearms configured for mounting in a doorway, and for supporting at least one weight member to provide gravitationally influenced resistance, including a winding bar; at least one cord attached to the winding bar; an arrangement attached to the at least one cord for supporting the at least one weight member; and at least two brackets for mounting to a door frame, each bracket being formed with a winding bar receiving area for receiving and releasably supporting the winding bar in a rotatable, cord winding position wherein the door frame restricts lateral movement of the winding bar while the winding bar is disposed within the brackets.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a hollow housing and a plurality of loose weights contained in the housing. First and second handles are located on opposite sides of the housing. The handles are adapted for being gripped by a user to lift and hold the exercise device.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein provides an exercise device and method of use for strengthening the fingers and hands. The device includes a base with a handrest onto which the hand is placed in a palm-up posture with the fingers extending beneath finger pads attached to a handle joined to a rotatable shaft. Resistance to shaft rotation is encountered by the fingers and hands during exercise which allows the user to build strength and endurance. The rigid shaft includes a sprocket to which a chain having a weight load affixed permits the addition of disk shaped weights for greater resistance as the muscles of the fingers and hands become stronger.

Abstract: The weight training device 10 has removable weights 40, 42, 44, 46 to change the total weight added to the hockey stick 66 to adapt to the skills and capabilities of a player. Pockets 32, 34, 36, 38 are formed in the weight training device 10 to hold the weights 40, 42, 44,46 along the rectangular sides 75, 77 of the hockey stick 66. A compressible membrane flap 48 is attached to retain the weights 40, 42, 44, 46 in the pockets 32, 34, 36, 38 and to provide some adhesion to the hockey stick 66 3to prevent the device 10 from moving on the hockey stick 66.

Abstract: A disk to be installed on a dumbbell around the middle bar and adjacent the weight at one end to protect the user's hand(s) from contact with the weight. A slot allows the disk to be installed without removing the weights. A cavity on the weight side of the disk provides clearance for the shoulder or collar which hold the weights in position on some dumbbells. The inner surface of the disk is convex while the outer is generally planar to lie flat against the weights.

Abstract: A weight support assembly [1205] and weight-responsive engagement assembly [1203] for a self-spotting free weight apparatus utilizes engagement of a pawl assembly [1215] in one of a plurality of vertically-spaced holes [1217] of a column 1207 to support a cable assembly [1209]. The cable assembly attaches the bar of a free-weight assembly to the weight responsive engagement assembly by means of a cable attachment assembly [1211] and sheaves 1213A, 1213B.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic tension control weight training machine containing a base, large revolver wheel, belt disc, shaft set, bearing assembly, pulley assembly, magnetic resistance flywheel, pulling rope and a reposition device. A wheel spacer is welded to the center of the large revolver wheel within which there is a bearing assembly, on one side fixed with a small revolver wheel for reposition. The shaft set fits through the bearing assembly, one end welded with a shaft disc to fasten the belt disc that is connected with the magnetic resistance flywheel and the large revolver wheel by means of the belt. The size of the small revolver wheel and the active pulley makes the extension length of the flexible components quite short. The reposition device adjusts the reposition course through the active pulley and the adjustment bolt, allowing for the control of the force.

Abstract: A barbell/dumbbell training support device includes a base with distal ends, a cross support laterally extending equidistantly from each distal end of the base for a predetermined distance, the cross supports being configured to prevent tipping of the support device, an elongated tray configured to support barbells and dumbbells, and connection elements configured to interconnect the base with the elongated tray. Ends of each cross support may have attached thereto pads, covers, or elevated attachments made from flexible and resilient material. The elongated tray is a generally elongated rectangle having a surface and lengthwise sides with ends and widthwise sides with ends. Raised edges extend from each of the corresponding lengthwise and widthwise sides of the tray.

Abstract: Weightlifting system having a bench, a pair of weight stands on opposite sides of the bench, an elongated bar extending over the bench between the weight stands, and weight plates on the weight stands for selective attachment to the bar without being removed from the weight stands. The bench can be moved between raised and lowered positions relative to the bar, and individually operable leg extension bars are positioned at one end of the bench, with weight plates resting on supports near the leg extension bars adapted to be selectively attached to the leg extension bars without being removed from the supports. In one disclosed embodiment, a frame having a pair of upright posts is positioned between the weight stands, and a pair of guides are connected to the bar and mounted on the posts for movement along the posts.

Abstract: A therapeutic arm exercise device which includes a vertical supporting frame for mounting on a vertical wall surface. An upright elongated exercise base board is pivotally secured relative to the frame for selectively positioning and retaining the board at different angles from vertical to less than vertical. An elongated track is provided on the outer surface of the board and a weight slide is slidably received on this track and is provided with a handle whereby a patient may manually slide the slide up and down along the track for rehabilitation exercise. In addition, the vertical position of the device may be adjusted on the wall. Also, the amount of weight for the slide may be adjusted. Indicia is provided on the board adjacent the track for indicating distance that the slide is moved by the patient upwardly along the track and a biofeedback annunciator is also provided to indicate attainment of a goal distance of upward movement along the track by the slide.

Abstract: The present invention is for a controlled therapeutic traction device utilizing a warmed hypertonic solution or other fluid of sufficient specific gravity to float the patient in a relaxing, relatively weightless environment. Traction is applied to a portion of the patient's body using various means to apply tension to that portion of the body, while the remainder of the patient's body continues to be suspended in the fluid.

Abstract: A weight machine is used for acceleration movement of heavy weights, and jumping and throwing exercises. The weight machine includes a hydraulic cylinder that will retard movement of the weight under gravity, and will permit free movement against the force of gravity.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes at least one body-building structure, and at least one damping structure serving to bring about a damping effect. The body-building structure is provided with an actuating pulley serving to actuate one or more weighted pulleys of the damping structure in conjunction with a cable. The actuating pulley adds a buffer to the damping effect, thereby preventing a sharp impact from inflicting an injury on a body part of an exerciser.

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 movably 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 an increase in distance between the user's hips and the user's feet due to straightening of the user's legs at the knees.

Abstract: This invention is a Self Spotting Safety Bench Press composed of an adjustable bench and uprights located on either side of the bench adjacent the lifters upper body. Lifting arms extend from the uprights into the barbells pathway and have the ability to slide up and down to contact the barbell and decrease the weight exerted on the exerciser. Hydraulic cylinders provide force to each lifting arm, which is depressed below the barbells path before use. When assistance is needed, the exerciser releases a hydraulic restrictor valve causing the arms to ascend removing a user-determined amount of weight from the barbell while permitting the user to continue performing repetitions. A second restrictor valve can allow only upward movement should the exerciser fail. A third flow restrictor valve adjusts the rate of arm travel. An air charged hydraulic accumulator provides the hydraulic pressure to the cylinders.

Abstract: A lockout mechanism allows for controlled use of exercise equipment. Use is allowed on a time-controlled basis. A predetermined period of time is allocated based on an amount of money paid. The preferred embodiments include a coin-operated, time-controlled, lockout mechanism incorporated onto various types of exercise equipment to prohibit use. The first category including those types of exercise equipment which utilize flywheels, including but not limited to: elliptical trainers, stationary bicycles, stair steppers and cross-country ski machines. This first embodiment employs a friction device to prohibit use. The second category including those types of exercise equipment which utilize adjustable resistance in the form of a weight stack, including but not limited to: universal gyms and nautilus equipment. This second embodiment employs a spring loaded latch mechanism to prohibit use. A third category includes those types of exercise equipment which require electricity to operate.

Abstract: A weight support assembly [1205] and weight-responsive engagement assembly [1203] for a self-spotting free weight apparatus utilizes engagement of a pawl assembly [1215] in one of a plurality of vertically-spaced holes [1217] of a column 1207 to support a cable assembly [1209]. The cable assembly attaches the bar of a free-weight assembly to the weight responsive engagement assembly by means of a cable attachment assembly [1211] and sheaves 1213A, 1213B.

Abstract: An inclined leg press machine includes: a frame that includes a base configured to rest on an underlying surface and a pair of inclined guides; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a weight sled slidably engaged with the guides along a travel path that is substantially parallel with the guides, the weight sled operatively coupled with a resistance source; and a foot platform assembly movable with the weight sled, the foot platform assembly having a foot platform that receives the feet of an exerciser. The weight sled is movable along the travel path between flexed and extended positions. The foot platform rotates relative to the underlying surface as the weight sled moves between the flexed and extended positions so that, when the exerciser's feet are placed flat on the foot platform, the exerciser's feet and tibiae are maintained at an angle of approximately ninety degrees.

Abstract: A weight plate for fitness weightlifting that provides an ergonomic gripping device is described. The ergonomic weight plate comprises a disc-shaped member having a center through-hole for positioning the weight plate onto a barbell. The disc-shaped member further comprises at least one ergonomic gripping cutout located around the periphery of the disc-shaped member. The gripping cutouts are adapted to receive human fingers to facilitate lifting of the weight plate. The ergonomic gripping cutouts each have an outer periphery and an inner periphery. A portion of the outer periphery of the cutouts is convex to properly conform the gripping cutout to the shape of a human hand. In a second embodiment the gripping cutout has a grip enhancement strip located on the inner surface of the outer periphery of the gripping cutouts.

Abstract: A weight training machine includes a main frame, a lever carriage mechanism, an adjustment linkage and a stop mechanism. A lever carriage mechanism is pivotally connected to the main frame. The lever carriage mechanism includes a weight carrying portion adapted to carry at least one weight. An input mechanism is connected to the lever carriage mechanism. The adjustment linkage is connected between the lever carriage mechanism and the main frame and is configured to selectively adjust an arc of rotation of the weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism about the main frame such that the weight carrying portion may selectively traverse each of a plurality of predefined strength curves in response to movement of the input mechanism by a user.

Abstract: A multi-axes exercise machine for strengthening muscles surrounding shoulder joint of a user allows the user a range of motions about lines of motion perpendicular to an arc of circumduction of the shoulder joints. A pair of handholds is suspended from an arcuate guide plate, which extends above a user station. By moving the point of securing the handholds along the length of the arcuate guide plate, the user can re-position the upper ends of the handholds from a location above the user station to a position behind the user station. At all times, the axes of rotation of the handholds are parallel to each other and extend along a plane that contains the axis of circumduction of the user's shoulders. A centerline of each handhold passes through the center of the corresponding glenohumeral joint of the user during the exercise.

Abstract: An exercise system comprising a rocking chair and a footstool. The rocking chair comprises a seat, a back support, a base, and rocking means. Rocking resistance means are provided for requiring that an additional force be applied to the rocking chair to maintain a rocking motion. The footstool comprises a foot rest positionable with respect to the rocking chair such that the feet of a user are supported on a foot support surface of the foot rest when the user is seated upon the rocking chair. Means for adjusting the height and angle of the foot rest are also provided. A method for selectively exercising specific muscle groups in a user's legs with the exercise system is also described.

Abstract: Discrete weight selecting members are movably mounted on a handle assembly and selectively rotatable into engagement with respective weight plates to provide adjustable resistance to exercise movement.

Abstract: An improved weight plate includes a planar body having a central opening for receiving a barbell or dumbbell bar therethrough. The weight plate includes oppositely facing flange members extending partially about the perimeter of the weight plate. The opposed ends of the flange members are spaced from each other and define a gap therebetween. The flange members extend perpendicularly from both sides of the weight plate planar body about the perimeter thereof. The weight plate includes at least one opening formed adjacent the perimeter of the weight plate. The opening is adapted to receive one or more fingers of an average human hand for securely grasping and lifting the weight plate. Adjacent weight plates mounted on a barbell bar are adapted for interlocking engagement.

Abstract: A squat exercise apparatus (10) provides back support (12) for a user (20) leaning against a support surface (22) while performing a squat exercise. A frame (12) connected to the back support is rolled along the support surface by wheels (18) as the user lowers and raises his/her torso. An arm support (16) allows the user to grasp the apparatus and to comfortably rest his/her arms during the exercise. A portable heart monitor display (48) may be attached to the handle portion (26) of the arm support. Pivoting connections (42) allow upper and lower back support pads (38, 40) to be rotated to a comfortable position for a variety of users. A supplemental weight attachment (52) allows the user to increase the weight lifted during the exercise. A shoulder support (62) may be used to facilitate the lifting of the weight of the apparatus. A support base (58) may be used to provide a desired height to the apparatus when placed on a floor (60).

Abstract: A weight plate for use with a barbell or dumbbell which incorporates a plurality of handgrips formed near the peripheral surface of the weight plate. The handgrips have a transverse width and radial height sized to provide a convenient gripping point for individuals with smaller hands, such as women, children, or smaller men. These small circumference handgrips are indented from the outside edges of the weight plate to allow for more convenient manipulation of the weight when the weight abuts against a solid obstruction, such as another weight plate on a weight stack. This indentation of the hand grips also provides protection for the hands and fingers of a weight lifter manipulating the weight plate in a weight lifting environment. The location of the handgrips of the present invention also facilitate the lifting and transport of the weight plate in the weight lifting environment, by reducing the stresses on the weight lifter's shoulder joints.

Abstract: A dumbbell clamp for a barbell and dumbbell safety spotting apparatus [30] utilizes two spaced-apart plates [162] each having a notch [166] for retaining the grip [28] of a dumbbell [26]. A spring-biased lock bar [170] locks the dumbbell grip in the notches during normal use. A clamp bore [178] is provided for secure the dumbbell clamp to a cable [72] by use of a hook [86]. A hand switch receptacle [82] provides an electrical connector from a hand switch [88] on the dumbbell clamp to the safety spotting apparatus.

Abstract: A Barbell plate has a round configuration and has a central aperture and at least one aperture along the periphery thereof. The portion of the plate near its periphery has substantially less thickness than the central portion thereof, this end result being achieved by tapering the outer portion of the plate in the direction of the periphery. The aperture or apertures near the periphery are preferably elongated to facilitate fitting one or possibly two fingers in this aperture or apertures with another finger in the central aperture or an opposite peripheral aperture, in lifting the plate.

Abstract: A reciprocating exercise device for strengthening of the muscles comprising the shoulder. The device is held in the user's hand and moved in a repeated manner to simulate a sports specific movement or for therapeutic muscle strengthening. A tube with detachable end caps contains a weight. The end caps house springs that extend into the tube when attached to the ends of the tube. The weight is of a diameter such that it may travel freely along the inner length of the tube, yet closely matched to the inner diameter of the tube such that significant air compression occurs in front of the moving weight. The generated air compression serves to reduce the shock of the weight when it impacts the springs at the tube ends. Controllable tube venting allow for control of the magnitude of this effect. Variable styles of attachable handles allow for improved simulation of sports specific throwing motions.

Abstract: A blow-moldable container, having a centrally located, generally tubular handle spanning a central recess has improved balance and ergonomics over existing blow-molded containers. Such a balanced container has great utility as a handheld freeweight, or as a container for pourable substances. An integrally molded base allows our container to be stood upright on end like a regular bottle. Products may be marketed in such containers under the premise that the consumer automatically acquires a freeweight by purchasing the product. The inclusion of fitably engageable contours on its top and bottom surfaces makes such a container stackable with others of its kind, for ease of packaging, shipping, and storage. A graduated set of handheld fillable freeweights may thus be compactly stored without a special rack. Since blow-molding offers great economy of production for sufficiently large numbers of containers, the average person will now be able to afford an entire graduated set of freeweights.

Abstract: A muscle strengthening bar for the shoulders, arms, hands and wrist that includes a roll-up bar, a weight support by a plate on the end of a strap and a pair of handles on the roll-up bar. The user, by extending out the arms, can raise and lower the weight on the strap by rolling the handles attached to the roll-up bar. The rolling action of hands on the handles causes tension on the strap which is attached to the plate which supports the weight.

Abstract: A weight plate for use with a barbell or dumbbell which incorporates a plurality of handgrips formed near the peripheral surface of the weight plate. The handgrips have a transverse width and radial height sized to provide a convenient gripping point for individuals with smaller hands, such as women, children, or smaller men. These small circumference handgrips are indented from the outside edges of the weight plate to allow for more convenient manipulation of the weight when the weight abuts against a solid obstruction, such as another weight plate on a weight stack. This indentation of the hand grips also provides protection for the hands and fingers of a weight lifter manipulating the weight plate in a weight lifting environment. The location of the handgrips of the present invention also facilitate the lifting and transport of the weight plate in the weight lifting environment, by reducing the stresses on the weight lifter's shoulder joints.

Abstract: A multi-exercise station apparatus which, when not in use, has plural cables entrained about support pulleys to obviate slack and when a selected taut cable is pulled, a distal end thereof is effective to raise a weight from a weight stack for resistance, wherein the ballast of the weight stack provides said slack function and a pulley on said exercise stack provides said resistance function.

Abstract: A weight stack exercise unit particularly for working on one's waist, abdomen and legs comprised of a frame that can be folded up for storage or shipment and expanded holding onto ground to support the unit; a handlebar each being provided on both sides and a lever laterally provided in the center of the frame; the lever pivoted to a rotary turntable; a circular track formed on the turntable to engage with a pulley beneath the seat; a lateral bar extending from front of the seat; a foot support each provided to the utmost front of the lateral bar; two weighted sections on both sides of the handlebar; the user sitting or lying on the seat to hold the handlebar with feet in both foot supports applying force to cause the lateral bar and the seat to swivel up and down, or to swivel laterally by releasing the seat for it to slide along a circular track on turntable and by changing loads of the weights depending on the individual user and the length of the training session.

Abstract: The present invention provides and exercise device and methods designed to assist the exerciser in all abdominal strengthening exercises by use of an adjustable resilient means to provide resistance and absorb impact for the exerciser's eccentric range of motion, while supporting or boosting exerciser's concentric range of motion. This device offers maximum support for the exerciser's hips and back through the full range of abdominal exercises. The device includes a seat member and back member pivotally connected so that the seat and back provide a horizontal platform for the exerciser's use in a full range of abdominal exercise. When the preferred embodiment is not in use, the back member and seat member fold together for ease of storage or portability. A second embodiment offers the advanced exerciser adjustable foot positioning and back member positioning and is supported by an external frame assembly.