Body Part Of User Utilized As Weight Patents (Class 482/95)
  • Patent number: 7090622
    Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a variety of different accessory grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having integral hand grips. The accessory grips are removably attachable to the integral grip of an exercising device, and provide for gripping by the hands, foot or other body parts. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises. Accessory grips are attachable to the integral grips, greatly adding to the flexibility of the device. In addition, a novel hand grip is described having a plurality of cords that can be selected for gripping, and a bracket for mounting a door jamb mountable exercise device to a wall is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Fitness Anywhere, Inc.
    Inventor: Randal A. Hetrick
  • Patent number: 7044896
    Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a user selected resistance from nearly zero resistance to the user's full body weight, the ability to easily adjust between exercises and between users, and the ability to balance the device between reconfigurations to provide for ease-of-use. The device includes an inelastic adjustable length member with two arms and a grip at both ends, and a centrally located anchor that provides for a distribution of the length between the arms. In one embodiment, the exercise device is compact and can be removably attached to a door frame. When grabbing each of the grips and uniformly pulling away from the anchor, the arms of the device center on the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Randal A. Hetrick
  • Patent number: 7014601
    Abstract: A combined exercise/weight bench/lower cable station device. The device includes a bench that is supported in a generally horizontal use position and that is pivoted so that it can be moved up to an upright stowed position and held in place in the stowed position. Also included is a cable riser with a cable running there through. The cable has a weight-carrying saddle coupled to one end, and the other end of the cable extends from the lower portion of the riser underneath the bench when the bench is in the user position. To use the lower cable station function of the device, the bench is pivoted up and out of the way to the stowed position to provide access to the user end of the cable. The weight-carrying saddle is adapted to carry one or more weight plates, dumbbells, or weighted balls, to allow the user to use existing weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Michael Savage, Donna Savage
  • Patent number: 7008358
    Abstract: The exercising apparatus has a body support against which the torso of a person using the apparatus mainly rests. The apparatus also has first, upper support means (2; 22; 32) for the person's upper extremities and second, lower support means (3; 23; 33) for the person's lower extremities. The apparatus has drive means (9; 39) for moving the upper and lower support means so that the person's extremities, starting from a rest position (A) are imparted a movement outwardly from the sides of the torso and upwardly towards the person's head, along parts of circular paths, to a turning point (B) and thereafter back to the rest position (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Katja Goukassian
  • Patent number: 6979285
    Abstract: The present invention is a pair of hand grips that are to be rolled along a surface during an exercise routine. In more detail, each hand grip has an elongated, substantially straight, cylindrical crossbar with a first end and a second end. A first wheel is rotatably mounted at the first end of the crossbar and a second wheel is rotatably mounted at the second end of the crossbar. In operation, the wheels rotate about an axis that is defined between the ends of the crossbar, to move the hand grip over a surface. Movement of the hand grip over the surface can vary, depending upon the particular exercise routine being followed by the user. In order to perform an exercise routine, the user can assume a kneeling position, a sitting position or a bending-at-the-waist position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Douglas I. Lovison
  • Patent number: 6976941
    Abstract: A resistive exercise system for enabling individuals of a weakened physical condition to perform various resistive exercises. The resistive exercise system includes a frame structure, a seat member secured within the frame structure at a low entry level, a pair of opposing arm supports attached to the frame structure, a plurality of weight members adjustably positioned upon a weight shaft, and a plurality of cables attached to the weight shaft each having a handle attached thereto. A tubular support member is attached to the front of the frame structure for receiving an elongate tongue member that supports a resistance pedal structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Norman G. Britt
  • Patent number: 6976944
    Abstract: An adjustable ramped and horizontal stretching bench device for relieving spinal and muscle conditions contributing to lower back pain. The stretching bench has a horizontal forward portion and a ramped rearward portion. The effective overall length of the stretching bench is adjustable to accommodate persons of different lengths and different relationships between body length and leg length. The angle between the forward portion and rearward portion is adjustable from zero degrees to forty-five degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Robert M. Damasio
  • Patent number: 6971978
    Abstract: An exercise machine making use of the body weight of an exerciser as a load weight thereof comprises a horizontal base, a vertical bar member, an upper rocking bar member, a lower rocking bar member, a connection bar, a seat pad, a back pad, a handle, a pivoting cross member (V bar) and cushioning members. Unlike a conventional exercise machine, the exercise machine is composed of no weights. The vertical tube bar member is affixed to the base. The position of the upper rocking bar member can be adjusted by adjusting the pivoting position of the connection bar via the shuttle and two key pins. The exerciser can use the machine by sifting, kneeling, or standing on the seat pad of the machine for doing the muscle-building exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Matthews Production Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Brian Hyder
  • Patent number: 6966872
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of abdominal exercise with the operator using the sit-up or crunch movements. More particularly, an exercise apparatus that exercises the abdominal and back muscles with the lower torso of the operator supported by a moving seat while the upper torso of the operator is supported by a moving seatback. Continuous support of the lower back prevents back strain. The articulation of the seatback is coordinated with the movement of the seat. Adjustment is provided to adjust the rate of movement of the seat relative to the seatback. Handles are provided such that the arm muscles can assist the sit-up or crunch movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
  • Patent number: 6962570
    Abstract: A knee extension therapy apparatus is described. The apparatus is designed for use by a patient in a recumbent position having the foot of his leg to be treated elevated to a level above the surface upon which the patient user is resting. The knee extension therapy apparatus can be collapsed for easy transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventors: Keith E. Callanan, K. Donald Shelbourne
  • 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: 6921355
    Abstract: A collapsible exercise device includes a vertical support member, first and second sets of rails pivotally connected to each other, and a strut interconnecting the vertical support member and the rails. A user support platform engages the rails. First and second combination pulley-support and pull-up bars are pivotally connected to the first end of the first set of rails for movement between at least a substantially vertical position and a substantially horizontal position. First and second pulleys are slidably connected to bars and receive a cable, which is also connected to the user support platform. The exercise device is foldable such that the vertical support member, the rails and the strut are substantially parallel to each other; and the rails are extendable from the vertical support member and are alignable such that the user support platform is rollable along the first and second pulleys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Engineering Fitness International
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Larry Westfall, Dale Mc Murray
  • Patent number: 6908415
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for recreational and rehabilitative exercise comprising in combination, a substantially square-shaped slide board having a substantially level top surface with a low coefficient of friction, and at least one sliding device for allowing a user to maneuver any combination of his hands, elbows, feet, and knees or posterior torso across the slide board and methods of exercise wherein the individual may use functional movements as well as unilateral and bilateral movements with both upper and lower extremities and wherein the exercise allows the individual's body to move in an anatomical plane that is sagittal, frontal, transverse, oblique or in a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Branson
  • Patent number: 6837837
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a pair of opposing axially-aligned elongated members each having a first end and a second end, first and second wheels being rotatably connected to each of the first ends of pair of the elongated members, respectively, and a connecting bar having each end operatively connected to the second end of each elongated member, the connecting bar being adapted for cooperation with the elongated members to selectively vary the distance between the elongated members, thereby controlling the width between the first and second wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Lee Nethery
  • Patent number: 6824505
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Fu-Chen Chang
  • Publication number: 20040214696
    Abstract: An exercise device allowing a user to exercise his abdominal region by lying on his back while extending his arms generally upwards is disclosed. The device has a hand-gripping member positioned generally above the user's head for the user to grip while exercising. The hand-gripping member allows for a wide range of motion which may include side-to-side, front-to-back, diagonal, and/or rotational motion. This enables the user can exercise his abdominal region by moving in a variety of different directions, while keeping his arms extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Ken Kerry
  • Patent number: 6790194
    Abstract: Health equipment for dragging the lumbar with the trunk of the human body securely supported is provided. The trunk support is bendable only inwardly, and holds and supports the trunk of the human body. Since the trunk support is placed around the human body and enfolds from the area below the costae to above the pelvis, the human body is securely supported, whereby lumbago treatment can be carried out with the patient suspended in the air. Since the lumbar is dragged with the weight of the lower part of the patient's body, there is no possibility that the lumbar is dragged with excessive weight The leg hanging unit is a device to hang the legs of the patient. By using this leg hanging unit, so called mobilization may be carried out with the lower back portion suspended in the air, thereby increasing effectiveness of lumbago treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Protec House Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Katane, Hideaki Sakitsu
  • Publication number: 20040166998
    Abstract: A collapsible exercise device includes a vertical support member, first and second sets of rails pivotally connected to each other, and a strut interconnecting the vertical support member and the rails. A user support platform engages the rails. First and second combination pulley-support and pull-up bars are pivotally connected to the first end of the first set of rails for movement between at least a substantially vertical position and a substantially horizontal position. First and second pulleys are slidably connected to bars and receive a cable, which is also connected to the user support platform. The exercise device is foldable such that the vertical support member, the rails and the strut are substantially parallel to each other; and the rails are extendable from the vertical support member and are alignable such that the user support platform is rollable along the first and second pulleys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: Engineering Fitness International Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Larry Westfall, Douglas D. McMurray
  • Patent number: 6770017
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Strive Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry Keith Leipheimer
  • Patent number: 6761671
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Wake Forest University
    Inventors: William M. McKinney, Ralph W. Barnes
  • Publication number: 20040058788
    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: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6695753
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventors: Sung-Chao Ho, Michael E. Casey
  • Patent number: 6685604
    Abstract: Muscle-building apparatus for press-ups includes a bearing plate having a cushion. A frame includes first and second vertical posts. A first arm has a handle end and a journal end. A first handle is arranged on the handle end of the first arm. A second arm has a handle end and a journal end. A second handle is arranged on the handle end of the second arm. The first arm is movably mounted to the first vertical post between the handle end and the journal end. The second arm is movably mounted to the second vertical post between the handle end and the journal end. A first leg connects the journal end of the first arm to the bearing plate. The first leg is movably mounted to each of the first arm and the bearing plate. A second leg connects the journal end of the second arm to the bearing plate. The second leg is movably mounted to each of the second arm and the bearing plate. Movement of the first and second arms causes movement of the bearing plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Anghel Muscocea
  • Publication number: 20040014568
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Edward Williams, Darryl Bassani
  • Publication number: 20040009855
    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: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Patent number: 6676573
    Abstract: This is a multiple function exercise device that enables simultaneous exercise of several muscle groups. The device includes a chest pad that is stationary to the support frame and a seat that moves in a path of motion that enables the user's chest to remain on the chest pad as the user's legs are extended, thereby causing movement of the seat. This combination provides activation of the leg and hip extensor muscles and the trunk flexor muscles at the same time. In another embodiment, a resistance arm is added that is pivotally attached to the frame and mechanically linked to the seat, thereby causing movement of the arm as the seat moves. This allows the additional activation of the triceps muscles, or elbow extensors of the upper arm, while also working the leg and hip extensor muscles and the trunk flexor muscles all in a single movement. The advantage to such a movement is the time saving effect of working a large group of muscles at one time as opposed to several exercises one after the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventors: Kevin G. Abelbeck, Lawrence S. Kaye
  • Publication number: 20030232703
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Randall T. Webber
  • Patent number: 6632160
    Abstract: A back roller exercise apparatus is disclosed having a base, a support member and a backrest slidably engaged with the support member. In a preferred embodiment, the exercise apparatus includes a seat adjustably attached to the support member, a lower bar attached to the seat, and an upper bar adjustably attached to the support member. In an operating configuration, the support member is substantially vertical and the backrest slides up and down between the seat and the upper end of the support member. The support member is preferably pivotally attached to the base. In a storage configuration, the support member is pivoted such that it is substantially parallel to the base. The exercise apparatus is utilized to perform squats, lunges, narrow pull-ups, wide pull-ups, dips and push-ups. The exercise apparatus may be utilized in three exercise modes: strength, aerobic and circuit training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Thruster Partners, LLC
    Inventors: Julie LaFond, Jay Blahnik, Chris Lokan
  • Patent number: 6612845
    Abstract: An apparatus for training body movements in athletics includes a waist strap configured for attachment around the torso of a wearer and having a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto, and a shoulder strap configured for attachment around the wearer's shoulders and having two cooperating ends. The shoulder strap is configured to extend around the wearer's shoulders and under the wearer's arms such that the cooperating ends are connectable together at a point located substantially between the wearer's shoulder blades. The shoulder strap further includes a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto. The apparatus may further include leg straps configured for attachment around the wearer's legs and arm straps configured for attachment around the wearer's arms. The leg and arm straps may each include a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventors: Mark A. Macri, Lew Wright
  • Publication number: 20030158018
    Abstract: A leg press exercise machine that provides translational and rotational motion of the user support structure by translating the user support structure along two intersecting non-orthogonal linear paths. A front portion of the user support structure travels along an inclining linear path and a rear portion of the user support structure travels along a declining linear path. The translation of the user support structure along the inclining and declining linear paths results in the user support structure exhibiting a rational motion, defining an arcuate path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Stephen C. Wendt, Scott Lee, Scott Sechrest, Gary Lurken, Arnold B. Gillen
  • Patent number: 6565489
    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: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventors: Sung-Cho Ho, Michael E. Casey
  • Patent number: 6554751
    Abstract: An exercise device that allows a user to specifically target exercise the buttocks and hip muscles without also targeting the thigh muscles. The device includes a frame, an adjustable user torso support assembly, and a slidable knee support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Charlie S. Dannelly
  • Patent number: 6547706
    Abstract: A rack exercise system (30), according to the invention, having a main support frame (38), two upright support racks (42), a base frame, and a floor unit (36), for conditioning in three-dimensions using a mobile support (32) such as a Swiss ball. The rack excerise system is a multi-capability platform, or anchoring system that, in conjunction with the Swiss ball, allows an exercise or rehabilitation professional or an exercise enthusiast to fully express their creativity in exercise design, and selection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Paul Chek Seminars
    Inventor: Paul W. Chek
  • Patent number: 6500105
    Abstract: A portable exercising apparatus includes a chest-expander, two rod members adapted for fastening to two handles at two distal ends of the chest-expander for vertical pulling exercises, two wheels adapted for mounting on one rod member for back and forth body extending exercises on the floor, and a bag adapted for holding parts of the exercising apparatus when the exercising apparatus is not in use or fastening to the other handle of the chest-expander to hold a pad to support the knees on the floor when performing back and forth body extending exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Johnson Kuo
  • Patent number: 6491610
    Abstract: An exercise bench includes a floor engaging base, a vertical column, a body support, and inclined rails which occupy a vertical plane together with the column. Cables are interconnected between respective handles and respective pivot arms. At least one resistance device is interconnected between the pivot arms and one of the frame members. The cables are routed about pulleys which are selectively movable along respective rails to facilitate different types of exercise motions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Dale R. Henn
  • Patent number: 6491607
    Abstract: A lower back exercise and apparatus for performing a lower back exercise. The apparatus has a vertical pendulum suspended under the person exercising, who lies prone above the pendulum. The person's legs are retained in a resistance transfer apparatus that pivotably connects to the pendulum. Weights may be added to the pendulum The exercise raises the person's legs from the vertical to the horizontal. The exercise then lowers the legs from the horizontal through and past the vertical rest position, in a total motion substantially greater than 90 degrees, using the same muscle groups to push the legs past the vertical rest position. The body support platform may be adjusted to various angles with respect to the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventors: Louis J. Simmons, Allen K. Johnson, George Johns
  • Publication number: 20020183172
    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 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. The user sits on the reclined body rest with both hands applying an equal force on the pull cord causing the reclined body rest to slide reciprocally on the frame, thereby moving the exerciser seated on the reclined body rest back and forth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Shu-Yi Chen, Wan-Chen Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6468187
    Abstract: A back slide exercise device for mounting to a vertical surface such as a wall for performing squatting exercises. The back slide exercise device has a slide portion with a smooth surface for slidingly supporting the back of a user performing squat-type exercises. Upper and lower rigid support members secured to the upper and lower edges of the slide surface are secured to the vertical surface by fasteners. A user performs squat exercises by leaning against the smooth outer surface of the slide portion with their back and extending their legs to move from a squat position to an upright position and then flexing their legs to move back to a squat position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Donald Jeffrey Boatwright
  • Publication number: 20020137604
    Abstract: A multipurpose fitness machine includes a bench, and an operating frame unit adapted to support the bench on the floor for operation by the user to move the bench, the operating frame unit having a U-bar, two parallel bars respectively obliquely extended from the ends of the U-bar at an angle, a cross bar connected between the U-bar adjacent to the parallel bars, two coupling tubes respectively fixedly connected the parallel bars remote from the U-bar, a tubular operation bar fastened to the transverse tubes and connected between the parallel bars, and a plurality of anti-skid foot members respectively provided at the U-bar and the cross bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Wu Tsung Chen
  • Publication number: 20020132706
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a height adjustable front stanchion assembly with a telescoping tube having a quick release locking mechanism and a lower rear stanchion assembly. An inclined monorail is mounted between the stanchion assemblies, and a roller carriage assembly having spool-shaped rollers, is mounted so as to receive the monorail, and roll upon it. Alternately larger roller carriage rollers roll within channels in the monorail. Any of variously tensioned straps is attachable between the roller carriage and either the front stanchion assembly or the rear stanchion assembly to assist or resist the movement of the roller carriage assembly up the inclined monorail. The roller carriage is adapted so that a padded bench assembly and a bicycle seat assembly may be interchangeably rigidly secured to the roller carriage assembly. A rigid bar mounted on the front stanchion retains pull straps grasped by a user to pull the user mounted on the roller carriage up the inclined monorail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Robert H. Sleamaker
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6422981
    Abstract: A portable stretching apparatus can be deployed in a manner that allows one limb of a user to be restrained on a base unit supporting the user's body while another limb is stretched by pulling a cable at one end to move the other limb attached at the other end of the cable. A cable handling device is arranged so that it can be moved at any position across the width of the stretching device. A measuring device allows a user to measure the relative extent of a stretching exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel E. Riser
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 6348027
    Abstract: An exercise wheel comprises a housing, two grip rods secured to two sides of the housing, respectively, a chassis housed by the housing, and two wheel assemblies. Each wheel assembly comprises a shaft mounted between two side walls of the chassis, two wheels mounted in the housing and connected by the shaft to thereby allow rotational movement of the wheels, and a torsion spring. The torsion spring has a coil portion mounted around the shaft, a first end securely attached to one of the wheels, and a second end securely attached to one of the housing and the chassis. Rotational movement of the wheels in a forward direction is stopped when the torsion spring is twisted such that the coil portion of the torsion spring is in contact with an outer periphery of the shaft. A sleeve is mounted around the coil portion of the torsion spring to prevent radial outward expansion of the coil portion when the wheels are moved in a direction opposite to the forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Tsun Lee
  • Publication number: 20020013199
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that includes a frame, a rest member on the frame for receiving a user's feet, and a first and a second arm that are pivotably interconnected to each other such that the arms are pivotably movable between a start or rest position and an extended position. The first arm is coupled to the frame. A seat is provided for supporting the user and carried by the second arm. An inclined base support member is disposed under the second arm and is for supporting the second arm during the movement between start and extended positions. A carriage may be associated with the inclined base support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Scott Sechrest, Arnold Gillen, Gary Lurken, Stephen C. Wendt
  • Patent number: 6338700
    Abstract: A leg stretcher used to stretch a user's hamstring muscles when the user is lying in a supine position. The leg stretcher including a conventional pulley suspended from any convenient support at a position above the user's head. A rope is threaded through the pulley, and at one end thereof has an adjustable stirrup to be placed around the user's ankle. The stirrup is adjustable in size to accommodate a particular user's ankle. The opposite end of the rope is then threaded through a cord lock and a handle bar with the cord lock fixedly attached to the handle bar. This end of the rope is then secured to an adjustment handle which is used to adjust the length of the rope and also prevents the rope from slipping through the handle bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventor: Todd E. Pollock
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6234942
    Abstract: A compound exercise apparatus for extension, stretching and rowing-type exercises where the user's body weight provides a component of the resistive force against which the user exercises. The apparatus includes a base having a pair of stationary foot pedals, a cushion mounted to the top of a support bar for supporting the user's upper body. A lower end of the support bar is mounted to the base and an upper end of the support bar is pivotally mounted to an upper end of a twin-wheeled push rod. The twin-wheeled push rod is biased to a retracted position by an extension spring anchored within the support bar and connected to a cable anchored to a connection post of the twin-wheeled push rod. A fork member having a U-shaped bar at a lower end and a T-shaped connection member at an upper end is pivotally connected to the connection post of the twin-wheeled push rod. A lower end of the U-shaped bar of the fork member is pivotally connected by a linkage to the support bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Cheng-hui Yang