Exercise apparatus

Abstract

 An exercise apparatus includes a base or support structure (11, 21) that serves as a fixing point for the attachment of two independently laterally movable levers (15, 35) that are pivotable relative to the base or support structure (11, 21) about spaced pivot axes and are provided at or adjacent their free ends with handgrips (16, 38) that can be gripped by the user in such manner that a proportion of the weight of the user is applied to the handgrips (16, 38) and thus to the levers (15, 35) as the user moves the levers (15, 35) towards and away from each other. The levers (15, 35) are arranged so that they are fixed to the support structure (11, 21) during use of the apparatus but can be removed for storage purposes.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] This invention relates to exercise apparatus and is concerned with the provision of an improved form of exercise apparatus, and a range of such apparatus, which can be used to test, train and rehabilitate the human musculo-skeletal system with improved safety.

[0002] The invention is more specifically concerned with the provision of an improved form of portable, lever-operated strength resistance system, the design of which is founded upon ergonomically and bio-mechanically sound principles.

Background to the Invention

[0003] During the last few years there has been an explosion in interest in fitness and strength training activities. The reasons for its popularity are many. However, increased media coverage and public health awareness campaigns initiated by various health bodies have served to fuel public interest in health-related issues.

[0004] Capitalising on this rapidly growing trend, the health club scene has expanded more rapidly now than ever before during the history of the industry. Consequently, the list of health club chain operators is truly astounding and so are the fees charged by some of these organisations.

[0005] As a result of overcrowding and high training fees, many people are turning to the home training option, with spare rooms and garages being converted to private gymnasia that offer convenience, security and privacy and can be used by family and friends at a time most convenient to themselves.

[0006] In view of this rapidly growing off-shoot in health and fitness, there is a clear need for exercise apparatus that is compact, relatively inexpensive and which, due to its bio-mechanically thorough design, offers performance-enhancing properties that are comparable to those of the equipment which adorns most large health club facilities.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an exercise apparatus for this particular purpose.

Summary of the invention

[0008] According to the present invention there is provided an exercise apparatus that includes a base or support structure that serves as a fixing point for the attachment of two independently laterally movable levers that are pivotable relative to the base or support structure about spaced pivot axes and are provided at or adjacent their free ends with handgrips that can be gripped by the user in such manner that a proportion of the weight of the user is applied to the handgrips and thus to the levers as the user moves the levers towards and away from each other, the levers being arranged so that they are fixed to the support structure during use of the apparatus but can be removed for storage purposes.

[0009] More specifically, the invention provides an apparatus that is suited to strength training at locations where space is at a premium and where the performance-enhancing properties of a full-sized machine are required, this being in terms of bio-mechanical efficiency and safety.

[0010] The apparatus thus preferably includes a number of novel features, including but not limited to the following:-

a) a free-standing base or a wall/floor mounted support structure,

b) a set of pivots or a variably configured bearing plate, to which a set of laterally, independently angled/angle adjustable or neutrally positioned training levers can be removably positioned,

c) the training levers can have a series of through holes positioned along their length for placement of restraint means, which according to its placement, provides variable resistance for the same,

d) a method of fixing one or more of the levers to facilitate differing training methods, such as a removable spanning bar. The spanning bar can have a series of holes set towards each distal end to facilitate the fixing of the training levers at differing widths.

e) a chain range-limiting device to facilitate the range setting of the training levers, whilst still allowing lateral movement within the limits of the chosen setting.

f) a set of removable wheels, which attach to the distal ends of the levers, and/or additional wheels for attachment to varying points about the base/support structure to provide support and movement in the facilitation of various exercise movements.

g) a tube containing spring or pneumatic resistance with two plastic bushes and protruding spigots for articulation with the through holes in the training levers.

h) a means for providing angle adjustment of the training levers, to provide variable resistance for the machine operator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] 

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a floor-mounted chest press machine,

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portable strength, fitness and mobility machine,

Figure 3 shows the base of the machine shown in Figure 2, and

Figure 4 shows the machine of Figure 2 ready for use with a range-limiting chain.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0012] The apparatus shown in Figure 1 includes an inverted L-shaped wall and floor mounted support structure 11. The upper end of the support structure 11 is secured to the wall and the lower end of the support structure 11 is secured to the floor by steel fixing plates 12 that are, in turn, secured to the wall and floor surfaces with expanding wall bolts. The support structure 11 can also be made freestanding by the use of relatively inclined legs extending outwardly from the lower end of the support structure and termination in ground-engaging feet.

[0013] Mounted crossways upon the face of the L-shaped support structure 11, a further bracket is provided (not shown), to which a larger plate 13 is attached via four centrally mounted bolts. This further plate 13 can also be welded directly to the support structure 11.

[0014] The plate 13 has positioned on each lateral aspect, two sets of offset pillow-block bearings 14. The bearings 14 of each pair are positioned one above the other. The offset pillow-block bearings 14 provide angled attachment for two training levers 15, one for each set of pillow-block bearings 14.

[0015] Mounted at the distal inside aspect of each training lever 15 is a training handle 16, which serves as a handgrip. Each of the medially positioned training handles/grips 16 can be fixed immovably to the main training lever 15 or can be pivotally mounted, to provide movement of the same. In addition, each handle or grip 16 can have a rotatable collar mounted on it, to provide for rotation during use.

[0016] Mounted upon or adjacent each superior distal surface of each training handle or grip 16 can be found a vertical prominence 17. Mounted laterally on the surface of each vertical prominence 17 can be found an angled training handle/grip 18, to provide a training variation.

[0017] As opposed to being angled, the training levers 15 can also be neutrally positioned upon the bearing plate 13, this providing a different training effect, that is more suited to the facilitation of restraint means.

[0018] Restraint means may be provided acting on the training levers 15 and this can include, spring, air, pulley/weight-stack or other well-known restraint means.

[0019] The angled training levers 15 are capable of medial restraint, via any of the above methods or by including a free weight-mounting facility at each distal/lateral aspect of each lever.

[0020] Each lever 15 is fitted with a threaded spigot 19, which is positioned toward the proximal end of each lever. The purpose of each spigot 19 is to receive a chain 20, which spans both levers 15 and provides an adjustable form of range-limiting device.

[0021] The primary function of the exercise apparatus of Figure 1 is to provide a method of training the pectoralis muscles of the chest. However, by adapting the body position accordingly, multiple muscle groups can effectively be exercised.

METHOD OF OPERATION

[0022] When using the machine for the purpose of training the chest muscles of the upper torso, the operator kneels facing the machine and leans forward, taking a training handle 16 in each hand. From this position, the operator, with the training handles 16 parted, places a proportion of his/her body weight via the hands onto the training handles 16 and then slowly closes the handles 16, making sure that each training handle 16 is level with the other on completion of the inward movement, the exercise being skill-related.

[0023] The more experienced individual assumes the same initial position, with the same movement patterns also being followed. However, instead of remaining in the kneeling position, he/she performs the movement whilst in the press-up position, i.e. the weight distribution is divided between the hands and the tips of the toes only. As with all strength training, a series of repetitions are performed at varying speed, depending upon the desired training effect. Also, isometric exercises can be engaged, singularly or in combination with concentric and eccentric exercise movements.

ANGLE ADJUSTABLE FLOOR LEVER CHEST PRESS

[0024] This apparatus is a modification of the apparatus described above and provides variable resistance, by allowing for angled adjustment of the training levers.

[0025] The preferred form of apparatus is an inverted L-shaped wall and floor-mounted support structure. The support structure is secured to the wall superiorly and to the floor inferiorly by steel fixing plates (as shown in Figure 1), which are in turn secured to these surfaces with expanding wall bolts. The unit may also be offered with a subframe, to enable it to be freestanding.

[0026] This configuration may include two independent bearing plates, which are rotatably mounted to a base plate or support structure, which in turn is fixed to the wall/floor mounted support structure. The rotatable bearing plates can run along the path of or line up with indexing points and can be fixed to the same. Each lever is preferably mounted to one of the rotatable bearing plates, thus allowing independent angle adjustment of the same.

[0027] An alternative method of angle adjustment may include two independent bearing plates that are mounted to a base plate or support structure, which in turn is fixed to the wall/floor mounted support structure. The rotatable bearing plates have positioned at their most superior aspect, a threaded shank (one per bearing plate and capped with a plastic retaining nut) that provides placement for a chain linkage or multiplex drilled spanning bar. Lever angle adjustment is achieved by shortening the chain linkage or by the positioning of the threaded spigots on the series of drilled holes on the spanning bar.

[0028] Rotatable bearing plates are only one example providing for angle adjustment of the training levers; other mechanisms are possible. However, the overall concept remains the same, i.e. that of altering the training resistance for the operator, through lever angle adjustment.

[0029] The primary function of the apparatus described herein is to provide a method of training the pectoralis muscles of the chest. However, by adapting the body position appropriately, multiple muscle groups can effectively be exercised.

METHOD OF OPERATION

[0030] In the case of using the machine for the purpose of training the chest muscles of the upper torso, the operator sets the desired lever operating angle and thus the resistance. Then he or she kneels, facing the machine and leans forward, taking a training handle in each hand. From this position, the operator with the training handles parted, places a proportion of his/her body weight via the hands, onto the training handles (floor press grip) and then slowly closes the handles, making sure that each training handle is level with the other on completion of the inward movement, the exercise being skill related.

[0031] The more experienced individual assumes the same initial position with the same movement patterns also being followed. However, instead of remaining in the kneeling position, he/she performs the movement whilst in the press-up position, i.e. the weight distribution is divided between the hands and tip toes only.

Biomechanical advantage

[0032] The bio-mechanics of the apparatus are arranged to create a leverage disadvantage for the user. This means that a high level of resistance is imparted to the muscles of the user, without the need for the engagement of a resistance means, other than the user's body weight. The resistance is felt throughout the full range of exercise movement, intensifying and peaking when the training handles close on each other. There is no resting point.

[0033] The exercise movement is skill-related, with the operator having to close the training handles and also to level them up with each other to complete each and every repetition. This feature promotes exercise intensity and training focus, and ensures that equal stress is placed upon both sides of the body.

[0034] In addition, safety is greatly improved through the elimination of bench-related thoracic spinal compression, with scapula (shoulder blade) movements freely taking place during the exercise movement.

PORTABLE STRENGTH FITNESS AND MOBILITY SYSTEM

[0035] Figures 2, 3 and 4 a portable full body strength, fitness and mobility system that includes the following components:-

THE BASE

[0036] The base or support structure consists of a length of tube 21 to which two feet 22 are attached, one at each lateral/inferior aspect of the support structure 21. Extending vertically from the superior aspect of the tube 21 and being equally spaced are two hardened spigots 23. Extending horizontally from the anterior face of the tube 21 and being equally spaced, can be found two more hardened spigots 24.

[0037] Positioned laterally to each of the vertically positioned spigots 23 on the tube 21 and also extending vertically, can be found a short length of tube 25, each length of tube 25 having positioned on its lateral face an angled gripping handle 26. Each short length of tube 25 is capped by a length of flat section 27 that extends posteriorly of the apparatus and each flat section 27 contains, at its most distal aspect, a spigot 28 that extends laterally of the flat section 27. Each of the two spigots 28 is fitted with a free-running wheel 29.

[0038] Centrally positioned on the main base of the apparatus, an anteriorly angled and supported section of flat T-crossed at its distal end, serves as a footrest 47.

[0039] A centrally positioned hole passes through the tube 21 and is open at both the anterior and posterior faces of the tube 21. The hole is for the attachment of a demountable wheel housing assembly 48 described below.

DEMOUNTABLE WHEEL ASSEMBLY

[0040] The wheel assembly 48 is detachable from the main base and includes a wheel housing that is made up of a short length of angle iron 30, centrally drilled through its most inner aspect for the attachment of a fixed threaded shank 31. Attached to the inferior aspect of the angle iron 30 are two equally spaced lengths of flat 32. Each flat section contains a hole at its distal end, for the passing through of a spigot 33, which carries a free-running wheel 34.

TRAINING LEVERS

[0041] Supplied for use with the support structure and acting on it are two training levers 35. Each training lever 35 is capped distally by a plate or insert (not shown). The plate or insert is drilled and tapped to accept a further spigot 36, one for each lever 35, to which a wheel 37 is fitted. Found mounted distally and medially on each training lever 35 is a handgrip 38. In line with the medially placed handgrip 38 on each lever 35 and positioned vertically on the lever's superior face, can be found a short length of square cross-section tube 39.

[0042] Each length of tube 39 has attached to its anterior face, a straight, formed handgrip 40 and on each lateral face there is an angled handgrip 41. Proximal to the wheel 37 and situated on the inferior surface of each training lever 35 can be found a threaded shank 42 (Figure 2). The threaded shanks 42 serve for attachment of a removable handle assembly 43 that serves both to lock the training levers 35 in place during storage and to facilitate ease of movement of the apparatus. Found at the proximal end of each lever 35 and set into it can be found a hardened bush 44. Provided for use with the machine, a chain 45 serves as a range-limiter by restricting lever travel whilst allowing movement of the same. In addition to this, a spanning bar (not shown) containing a series of holes can be used to lock the training levers 35 rigidly in position. Both the chain 45 and the spanning bar are fastened to the levers 35 at their distal aspects by placement of the same over two threaded and capped spigots 46, which are situated proximally on each training lever 35.

[0043] It is to be noted that a set of levers can be supplied with the apparatus that do not include wheels 37 at their distal ends and do not include the tube 39 with grips 40 and 41. Although restricting the use of the apparatus in its role as an all-over body trainer, by retaining grips 38, the apparatus can adopt a primary role as a CV, lower body and abdominal exerciser.

[0044] The handle assembly 43 includes a length of flat that is drilled at each distal end and is T-crossed at its most central aspect by a further length of flat, which in turn has fixed to its free end, a handgrip.

ASSEMBLY OF THE APPARATUS

[0045] To fit the levers 35 to the base of the apparatus, the proximally placed bush on a lever 35 is positioned over any one of the four spigots 23, 24 attached to the main base. To fit the demountable wheel assembly 48 to the main base, the threaded shank 31 on the wheel housing/bracket is pushed through the centrally positioned hole of the main base and locked in place by a wing nut.

[0046] The particular embodiment described above and shown Figures 2 to 4 of the drawings allows, in part or in whole, for the facilitation of numerous exercises that together allow for complete strength-resisted training of the human form.

[0047] More specifically, the apparatus has been designed to provide for the training of all major body parts and utilises the operator's own body weight/muscular power to effect varying levels of resistance. In addition, the apparatus provides a base for the execution of both cardiovascular and mobility type exercise movements. It must also be noted that the apparatus shown in Figures 2 to 4 can be provided with either a chain or a spanning bar to provide range-limiting of the same.

OPTIONAL RESISTANCE FACILITY

[0048] If additional resistance is required to effect the lateral movement of the training levers 35, the following method is preferred:-

1) a set of training levers is provided, each lever having a series of holes drilled along its length.

[0049] The series of holes within each training lever exists in order for the positioning of a removable resistance means. Although a variety of differing types of resistance means can be employed, such as pneumatic, the method of restraint described below utilises spring resistance.

RESISTANCE MEANS

[0050] A length of tube is provided, through which a hole passes laterally through its most central aspect. Extending laterally, either side of the said hole, are two milled slots. Positioned centrally within the tube is a dual-spring locating plug and the plug is held in position by a single bolt that passes through the resistance unit.

[0051] Positioned within either end of the spring-retaining tube is found a slidable plastic bush. Penetrating each bush and extending from the tube via each milled slot can be found a spigot. Positioned within the tube and communicating both with the central spring-retaining plug and each distally positioned bush is found a compression spring (two contained within the resistance unit).

VARYING THE RESISTANCE

[0052] Varying the resistance to the training levers is not carried out by performing adjustments to the resistance unit itself but by the positioning of the resistance unit along the lengths of the training levers.

[0053] In operation, the two spigots emanating from the distal aspects of the resistance unit are placed within holes positioned on the training levers (one spigot per training lever simultaneously). By placing the spigots towards the proximal end of each training lever (towards the base), the resistance created when the levers are pressed towards one another will be minimal, due to the leverage advantage afforded the operator (+). By moving the resistance unit through each consecutive set of holes towards the distal end of each lever (towards the training handles), the leverage advantage diminishes (-), making movement of the training handles towards each other progressively harder.

[0054] One lever is marked A and the other lever is marked with the letter B. In addition, both sets of levers are marked with numbers from one to, for example, six adjacent to each hole, with the first number starting at the set of holes nearest to the base of the machine.

[0055] In addition to the medial resisting of the training levers themselves, any one or more of the components forming the basis of the machine can utilise an external means of resistance. For example, the base of the machine, fitted with the demountable wheel assembly 48, could be resisted to provide a multitude of exercises, via the use of a fixed or detachable anchor point. The anchor point would provide for the attachment of, for example, spring or elastic resistance means, which would then attach to the main base of the machine. The base then offers multi-directional resisted movement when pulled or pushed about a suitable surface, such as the floor or a wall.

Claims

1. An exercise apparatus that includes a base or support structure (11, 21) that serves as a fixing point for the attachment of two independently laterally movable levers (15, 35) that are pivotable relative to the base or support structure (11, 21) about spaced pivot axes and are provided at or adjacent their free ends with handgrips (16, 38) that can be gripped by the user in such manner that a proportion of the weight of the user is applied to the handgrips (16, 38) and thus to the levers (15, 35) as the user moves the levers (15, 35) towards and away from each other, the levers (15, 35) being arranged so that they are fixed to the support structure (11, 21) during use of the apparatus but can be removed for storage purposes.

2. An exercise apparatus as claimed in Claim 1, characterized in that at least one additional handgrip (18, 40, 41) is provided on each lever (15, 35) at or adjacent the free end of the lever (15, 35).

3. An exercise apparatus as claimed in either of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wheel (36) is provided at the free end of each lever (35).

4. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wheel assembly (48) is secured detachably to the central part of the support structure (21).

5. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two pairs of spigots (23, 24) are provided on the support structure (21) and afford pivot mountings for the levers (39).

6. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that wheels (29) are provided at either end of the support structure (21).

7. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes a chain (45) detachably connected to the levers (35) for limiting the extent of displacement of the levers (35).

8. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the provision of a removable handle assembly (43) that can be attached to the levers (35) for transport purposes.

9. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each lever (35) is formed with a series of holes and that removable restraint means is connected at its ends to selected holes in the levers (35).

10. An exercise apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the provision of a spanning bar that can be attached removably to the levers (15, 35) to prevent relative movement of the levers (13, 35).

Drawing