U.S. patent application number 10/821539 was filed with the patent office on 2004-09-30 for antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim exercise machine.
Invention is credited to Hippensteel, Joseph B..
Application Number | 20040192522 10/821539 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26783995 |
Filed Date | 2004-09-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040192522 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hippensteel, Joseph B. |
September 30, 2004 |
Antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim exercise
machine
Abstract
An antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim overall
body exercise machine that allows virtually every muscle in the
body to work anaerobically or aerobically, at the user's choosing,
while the user is lying down on their back to take pressure off the
user's spine, and working most muscles through a nominal or up to a
full range of motion at the user's choosing, which motions can be
in one of several directions or arcs at the user's choosing. The
machine includes a base frame with parallel frame adjustable
lengths and supporting cross segments horizontally and vertically
to a second parallel frame length above the first, the entire base
frame having a first end and a second end, the first end having
frame adjustments to accept length and tension adjustable arm
apparatuses with handles, the second end having frame adjustments
to accept length and tension adjustable leg apparatuses with
pedals. Mounted on top of the base frame top parallel lengths are
padded bench apparatuses, one for the torso which can include a
headrest and one for the hips. The middle of the length of the base
frame has a spring or shock absorber type structure to allow the
middle top level of the base frame, supporting the seat and torso
apparatuses, to have an up and down motion to allow for abdominal
flexion of the user permitted by a pivoting action of the seat and
torso apparatus sections of the upper level of the base frame. The
seat and torso apparatus sections are permitted to pivot in a
seesaw type action by a fulcrum cross piece under and supporting
the center of each bench section.
Inventors: |
Hippensteel, Joseph B.;
(Flagstaff, AZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ALSTON & BIRD LLP
BANK OF AMERICA PLAZA
101 SOUTH TRYON STREET, SUITE 4000
CHARLOTTE
NC
28280-4000
US
|
Family ID: |
26783995 |
Appl. No.: |
10/821539 |
Filed: |
April 9, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10821539 |
Apr 9, 2004 |
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10091475 |
Mar 5, 2002 |
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6764432 |
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60350242 |
Nov 10, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/142 ;
482/62 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2022/0041 20130101;
A63B 22/0005 20151001; A63B 22/0605 20130101; A63B 69/14 20130101;
A63B 2208/0252 20130101; A63B 23/03575 20130101; A63B 22/0012
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/142 ;
482/062 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/12; A63B
021/00; A63B 026/00 |
Claims
That which is claimed:
1. An exercise machine, comprising: a bench having a length and
width mounted on a frame for a user to lie on their back; a pair of
independently adjustable arm exercise mechanisms mounted on a first
end of said frame, each of said arm mechanisms including a
rotatable arm to be rotated around an axis of rotation by the
user's arms, each said rotatable arm including a shaft portion that
is separate and distinct from the shaft portion of said other
rotatable arm, each said shaft portion defining said axis of
rotation of said rotatable arm; and an adjustable leg exercise
mechanism mounted on a second end of said frame, said leg mechanism
including a pair of rotatable pedals to be rotated by the user's
feet so that the user's feet and pedals move in a circular motion
around an axis of rotation transverse to a direction along the
bench's length, each said rotatable pedal connected to a rotatable
member connected to a shaft mechanism, said shaft mechanism
defining said axis of rotation of said pedals.
2. The exercise machine of claim 1, including a headrest mounted to
said bench at said first end of said frame by at least one spring
mechanism, said spring mechanism running in a direction along the
length of said bench and positioned between said first end of said
bench and said headrest to allow a range of motion for the user's
head and neck.
3. The exercise machine of claim 1, including each said arm
mechanism being laterally adjustable from said frame width to
accommodate the width of the user's arms and shoulders.
4. The exercise machine of claim 3, including each said arm
mechanism being vertically adjustable from said frame such that
said axis of rotation is capable of being moved in a vertical
direction from said frame to adjust the circle of rotation of said
arm mechanism.
5. The exercise machine of claim 1, including at least one of said
arm mechanisms rotatable about an adjustable tension device.
6. The exercise machine of claim 1, including a bar attachable to
said arm mechanisms to fix their relationship to cause such arm
mechanisms to rotate together, and detachable to permit the arm
mechanisms to rotate independently of one another.
7. The exercise machine of claim 1, including said arm mechanism
pivotable vertically to rotate said axis of rotation.
8. The exercise machine of claim 1, including said leg mechanism
being vertically adjustable from said frame such that said axis of
rotation is capable of being moved in a vertical direction from
said frame to adjust the circle of rotation of said pedals.
9. The exercise machine of claim 8, including said leg mechanism
including said pedals being adjustable so as to adjust a radius of
said circle of rotation of said pedals.
10. An exercise machine, comprising: a bench having a length and
width mounted on a frame for a user to lie on their back; a pair of
adjustable arm exercise mechanisms mounted on a first end of said
frame, each of said arm mechanisms including a rotatable arm to be
rotated around an axis of rotation by the user's arms, each said
arm mechanism being vertically adjustable from said frame such that
said axis of rotation is capable of being moved in a vertical
direction from said frame to adjust the circle of rotation of said
arm mechanism; and at least one adjustable leg exercise mechanism
mounted on a second end of said frame, said leg mechanism including
a pair of rotatable pedals to be rotated by the user's feet so that
the user's feet and pedals move in a circular motion around an axis
of rotation transverse to a direction along the bench's length,
said leg mechanism vertically adjustable from said frame such that
said axis of rotation is capable of being moved in a vertical
direction from said frame to adjust the circle of rotation of said
pedals.
11. The exercise machine of claim 10, including a headrest mounted
to said bench at said first end of said frame by at least one
spring mechanism, said spring mechanism running in a direction
along the length of said bench and positioned between said first
end of said bench and said headrest to allow a range of motion for
the user's head and neck.
12. The exercise machine of claim 10, including each said arm
mechanism being laterally adjustable from said frame width to
accommodate the width of the user's arms and shoulders.
13. The exercise machine of claim 10, including a bar attachable to
said arm mechanisms to fix their relationship to cause such arm
mechanisms to rotate together, and detachable to permit the arm
mechanisms to rotate independently of one another.
14. The exercise machine of claim 10, including said arm mechanism
pivotable vertically to rotate said axis of rotation.
15. An exercise machine, comprising: a bench having a length and
width mounted on a frame for a user to lie on their back; a pair of
adjustable arm exercise mechanisms mounted on a first end of said
frame, each of said arm mechanisms including a rotatable arm to be
rotated around an axis of rotation by the user's arms; at least one
adjustable leg exercise mechanism mounted on a second end of said
frame, said leg mechanism including a pair of rotatable pedals to
be rotated by the user's feet so that the user's feet and pedals
move in a circular motion around an axis of rotation transverse to
a direction along the bench's length; and a headrest mounted to
said bench at said first end of said frame by at least one spring
mechanism, said spring mechanism running in a direction along the
length of said bench and positioned between said first end of said
bench and said headrest to allow a range of motion for the user's
head and neck.
16. The exercise machine of claim 15, wherein the spring mechanism
extends at least part of the way across a space between the
headrest and the frame.
17. An exercise machine, comprising: a bench having a length and
width mounted on a frame for a user to lie on their back, said
bench and frame being formed in two sections adjustable
longitudinally; and a shock absorbing crosspiece mounted to the
frame between said two sections and defining a fulcrum to allow
said sections to be tilted relative to one another, and a shock
absorber-like device mounted to the frame to provide spring support
for the crosspiece at its fulcrum, the tilting of the sections by
pivoting of the crosspiece as the shock absorber device moves
allowing the user to bend abdominally.
18. The exercise machine of claim 17, wherein the shock
absorber-like device includes a spring.
19. The exercise machine of claim 17, wherein the shock
absorber-like device includes a shock absorber.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This continuation application claims priority benefits under
35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120 and 37 C.F.R. .sctn.1.53(b) to patent
application Ser. No. 10/091,475 filed Mar. 5, 2002 naming as
inventor Joseph B. Hippensteel, which is hereby incorporated by
reference. This continuation application also claims priority
benefits under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e) to patent application Ser.
No. 60/350,242 filed Nov. 10, 2001 naming as inventor Joseph B.
Hippensteel, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to exercise machines
and more specifically relates to an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine for providing an overall
body exercise machine that allows virtually every muscle in the
body to work anaerobically or aerobically, at the user's choosing,
while the user is lying down on their back to take pressure off the
user's spine, and working most muscles through a minimal or up to a
full range of motion at the user's choosing, which motions can be
in one of several directions or arcs at the user's choosing.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Exercise machines of various types have been in use for many
years directed to accomplishing many types of fitness results.
Typically, exercise machines include many types of exercise devices
that perform either a single exercise or multiple exercises using
different muscle groups and movements. The devices generally
utilize weights, springs, resistance devices or pulleys and
sometimes enable the user to create motion against the gravity
affect on the user's body weight.
[0006] One main problem with conventional exercise machines is that
most machines or devices or free weights, like barbells and
dumbbells, only allow for a limited range of motion and limited
muscle groups working at one time. Another problem with
conventional exercise machines is that they provide either aerobic
or anaerobic exercises, but usually not both, and the machines
usually focus on one motion repetitively. A further problem with
conventional exercise machine is that there is no capability of
providing a right and left coordinating, balancing type action
while making use of many muscle groups and performing the exercise
without the compressing effect of gravity on the spine.
[0007] While these devices may be suitable for the particular
purpose to which they address, they are not as suitable for
providing an overall body exercise machine that allows virtually
every muscle in the body to work anaerobically or aerobically, at
the user's choosing, while lying down on the user's back to take
pressure off the user's spine, and working most muscles through a
minimal or up to a full range of motion at the user's choosing,
which motions can be in one of several directions or arcs at the
user's choosing.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a new antigravity full range
of motion four limb dry swim exercise machine construction which
can be utilized for providing an overall body exercise machine that
allows virtually every muscle in the body to work anaerobically or
aerobically, at the user's choosing, while lying down on one's back
to take pressure off the user's spine, and working most muscles
through a minimal or up to a full range of motion at the user's
choosing, which motions can be in one of several directions or arcs
at the user's choosing.
[0009] The construction generally includes a base frame with
parallel frame members and supporting cross segments horizontally
and vertically to a second or top parallel frame member mounted
above the first frame member. The base frame includes a first end
and a second end, with the first end having frame adjustment
elements to accept arm apparatuses and the second end having frame
adjustment elements to accept leg apparatuses. Mounted on top of
the base frame top parallel members are padded bench apparatuses,
one for the torso and one for the hips. Adjustably fitted to the
first end of the base frame are arm apparatuses for each arm, and
at the second end of the base frame is an adjustably fitted leg
apparatus. Each of the two arm apparatuses and one leg apparatus
have a first end and a second end, the first ends having an
adjustable fitting for width for arms and length for arms and legs
and a second end having a handle for arms and a pedal for the feet
with a tension device in communication with the middle of the
length of each of the arm and leg apparatuses. The base frame forms
an elongate two-tiered structure with an adjustable fitting section
of the frame for adjusting the frame length approximately near the
first end. The middle of the length of the base frame has a spring
or shock absorber type structure to allow the middle top level of
the base frame, supporting the seat and torso apparatuses, to have
an up and down motion to allow for abdominal flexion of the user
permitted by a pivoting action of the seat and torso apparatus
sections of the upper level of the base frame. The seat and torso
apparatus sections are permitted to pivot in a seesaw type action
by a fulcrum cross piece under and supporting the center of each
bench section.
[0010] The bench apparatus is an elongate covered padded structure
commonly found in the market place, preferably in two sections, a
torso supporting section and a hip supporting section. Attached to
the first end of the torso section is a similarly padded headrest
section. The arm apparatuses are an elongate structure having a
first end, a middle section and a second end. The first end has a
rotatable handle perpendicular to an adjustable length arm
adjoining a middle section having a tension creating or releasing
device, and a second end adaptably fitted to the base frame first
end adjustable vertical arm accepting section. The leg apparatus is
an elongate structure having a first end, a middle section, and a
second end with two opposable rotating arm pedal parts. The first
end adaptably and adjustably fits into the leg accepting section of
the base frame second end. The length of the first end of the leg
apparatus is adjustable along its length to the middle section. The
middle section of the leg apparatus is adaptably and rotatingly
adjoined to a tension creating and releasing device. The second
ends of the leg apparatus are opposing arm type structures, each
rotating outwardly and circularly around the axis of the tension
device, and having a pedal structure on each end perpendicular to
the adjustable arm length extending from the tension device.
[0011] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited in its application to the details of
construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in
the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The
invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced
and carried out in various ways and is only limited to the claims
attached hereto. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology
and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the
description and should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the
present invention.
[0012] A primary object of the present invention is to provide an
antigravity full range of motion four-limb dry swim exercise
machine that will overcome the shortcomings of the prior art
devices. An object of the present invention is to provide an
antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim exercise
machine for providing an overall body exercise machine that allows
virtually every muscle in the body to work anaerobically or
aerobically, at the user's choosing, while lying down on one's back
to take pressure off the user's spine, and working most muscles
through a minimal or up to a full range of motion at the user's
choosing, which motions can be in one of several directions or arcs
at the user's choosing.
[0013] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that allows for a
minimal or all the way up to a fully extended range of motion of
the user's limbs.
[0014] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that allows the
simultaneous use of almost every muscle group in the user's
body.
[0015] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four-limb dry swim exercise machine that allows the user to
perform a full body workout without the detrimental compressing
effects of gravity on the spine while exercising.
[0016] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that allows for a
balanced right and left full body action that helps reinforce
coordination and body control for the user.
[0017] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that allows the user to
exercise aerobically or anaerobically with simple resistance
creating or releasing devices so that many goals can be
accomplished like toning, slimming, building muscle mass, or
cardiovascular efficiency.
[0018] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that is light,
inexpensive, portable, easily stored, small and compact.
[0019] Another object is to provide an antigravity full range of
motion four limb dry swim exercise machine that is fun for a user
to use, because of it's versatility in ranges of motion, directions
of motion, amount of resistance, and the ability to use more
muscles than other exercise machines or devices, therefore allowing
a full body workout in much less time.
[0020] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become clear to one skilled in the art and it is intended that
these objects and advantages are within the scope of the present
invention.
[0021] To accomplish the above and related objects, this invention
may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying
drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the
drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the
specific construction illustrated without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of
the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same
becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate
the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the inward and outward
circular action of the arm apparatus of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] Referring now descriptively to the drawings, in which the
same reference characters denote the same or similar elements
throughout the Figures, an antigravity full range of motion four
limb dry swim exercise machine or system embodiment of the present
invention is designated by the reference numeral 10. The system 10
includes a base frame 12 having a pair of parallel frame members
14, 16. The base frame 12 includes a plurality of supporting
horizontal cross segments or members 18 and a plurality of vertical
segments or members 20 to support a second parallel top frame 22
above the base frame 12 and forming a frame unit 24 for the system
10. The frame unit 24 including a first end 26 and a second end 28
with the first end 26 having a pair of frame adjustment members 30,
32, which adjustably accept respective arm apparatuses 34, 36. The
second end 28 having a frame adjustment member 38 to adjustably
accept a leg apparatus 40.
[0027] Mounted on top of the frame unit 24, and the top frame 22
are a pair of padded bench pads or supports 42, 44, one for the
torso 42 and one for the hips 44. Adjustably fitted to the first
end 26 of the frame unit 24 are the arm apparatuses 34, 36, one for
each arm of the user (not illustrated) and at the second end 28 of
the frame unit 24 is the adjustably fitted leg apparatus 40. Each
of the two arm apparatuses 34, 36 and the leg apparatus 40 has a
first end 46, 48 and 50 for adjustably fitting into the frame unit
24. The first ends 46, 48 of the arm apparatuses 34, 36 having an
adjustable fitting formed by a pair of tubes 52, 54 (the tubes 52,
54 only illustrated in FIG. 1 for the apparatus 34) adjustably and
slidably engaged within a pair of larger tubes 56, 58 formed in or
with the frame unit 24. The tubes 52, 54 are laterally adjustable
for the width of the shoulders and arms of a user and locked by a
pin 60 which can be inserted through mating holes in the respective
tubes 52, 54 and 56, 58. The length of the arms of the user can be
accommodated in a similar fashion by a vertical tube 66 slidably
engaged in a tube 68 and locked by a pin or bolt 70. The arms 34,
36 include adjustable second ends 72, 74, each having a handle 76,
78 to be gripped by the user and locked by a pin 79.
[0028] The first leg end 50 has a rectangular L-shaped member 80
slidably engaged into a mating member 82 on the frame member 24 and
locked by a pin or bolt 84 to adjust for the length of the user's
legs. A second leg end 85 can be slidably mounted vertically in a
second end 86 of the member 80, locked by a pin or bolt 88. A pedal
device 90 for the feet includes a tension device 92 mounted on the
leg end 85. The frame unit 24 has an adjustable fitting section 94
of the base frame members 14, 16 for adjusting the frame length
locked by bolts or pins 95. The middle of the length of the top
frame 22 has a spring or shock absorber type structure 96 to allow
the middle of the frame 22, supporting the seat and torso
apparatuses 42, 44, to have an up and down motion to allow for
abdominal flexion of the user permitted by a pivoting action of the
seat and torso apparatus sections or pads 42,44. The seat and torso
apparatus sections 42, 44 are permitted to pivot in a seesaw type
action by a fulcrum cross piece 98 located under and supporting the
center of each bench section 42, 44 and connected to the shock
absorber 96.
[0029] The bench apparatus is an elongate covered padded structure
commonly found in the market place, preferably in two sections 42,
44, the torso supporting section 42 and the hip supporting section
44. Attached to the first end of the torso section 42 is a
similarly padded headrest section 100. The arm apparatuses 34, 36
each are an elongate structure having the first end 46, 48, a
middle section and the second end 72, 74. The second end 72, 74 has
the rotatable handle 76, 78 perpendicular to an adjustable length
arm adjoining a middle section having a tension creating or
releasing device 102, 104, and the second end 72, 74 adjustably
fitted to the base frame first end adjustable vertical arm
accepting section 32, 34. The leg apparatus 40 is an elongate
structure having the first end 50, a middle section, and a second
end 106 with two opposable rotating arm pedal parts 108, 110. The
first end 50 adjustably fits into the leg accepting section 80 of
the base frame second end 28. The length of the first end 50 of the
leg apparatus is adjustable along its length to the middle section.
The middle section of the leg apparatus is adaptably and rotatingly
adjoining the tension creating and releasing device 92. The second
ends of the leg apparatus are adjustable opposing arm type
structures 112, 114, each rotating outwardly and circularly around
the axis of the tension device 92 locked by pins 115, and having
the pedal structure 108, 110 on each end perpendicular and
adjustable on the arm length extending from the tension device
92.
[0030] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base frame unit 24 is an
elongated two-tiered structure, with parallel frame members 12, 22
and horizontal and vertical cross supporting segments 18, 20 from
the bottom level section 12 to the parallel top level section 22.
The entire frame unit 24 has the first end 26 and the second end
28, the first end 26 having the shoulder width frame adjustment
sections 30, 32, best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, to accept the arm
apparatuses 34, 36, and the second end 28 having leg frame
longitudinal adjuster section 82 to accept the leg apparatus 40 as
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and along its length approximately near the
first end 26 is the torso length frame adjustment 94 as shown in
FIG. 2. The bottom section of the base frame 12 rests on the floor,
as shown in FIG. 2 and the upper level is designed to accept two or
more bench apparatuses 42, 44, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, more
specifically the torso seat pad 42 and the hip seat pad 44. The
first end 26 of the frame unit 24 has a variable shoulder width
frame adjustment 30, 32 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, and the arm
frame adjuster fittings 72, 74, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, to allow
for variable arm lengths of the user. The second end of the base
frame 28 has the longitudinal leg frame adjuster sections 80, and
the vertical adjuster section 85, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, to
allow for variable lengths of the user's legs.
[0031] The middle of the length of the frame unit 24 has the
abdominal flexion spring device 96, as shown in FIG. 2, to allow
for the top level of the base frame 22, supporting the hip seat pad
44 and the torso seat pad 42 to move up and down with the flexion
of the user's abdominal muscles, as the hip pad 44 and the torso
pad 42 pivot on the fulcrum cross piece 98 under the middle of the
seat pads 44 and 42. The frame unit 24 is preferably made of a
light aluminum or steel material being strong enough to allow
durability, but light enough to allow easy transport and storage.
The spring 98, as shown in FIG. 2 can be as simple as a spring or
more like a conventional shock absorber type device as commonly
found in the market place. The frame unit 24 could be designed to
have less height for easier storage, or have less length
adjustability on all adjustable parts for certain limited
therapeutic reasons or specific sports related ranges of motion.
The frame unit 24 could have more of a spring-based frame to allow
for more motion and coordinated movements while exercising. The
spring 98 could have more adjustability for more motion or less
motion of the abdominal muscles. The upper body portion of the
exercise machine 10, or the lower body portion, could have
adjustability to lean upward to allow the user to be more in a
seated position if they desire. The frame unit 24 can be formed
from round or square tubing.
[0032] The bench apparatus is an elongate covered padded structure
commonly found in the market place, preferably in two sections, the
torso supporting section 42 and the hip supporting section 44.
Attached to the first end of the torso section is the similarly
padded headrest section 100. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the bench
apparatus is an elongate covered padded structure, commonly found
in the exercise equipment market place, preferably in two sections,
the torso supporting section 42, and the hip supporting section 44.
Attached to the torso section 42, is the headrest 100. Preferably
all seat sections 42, 44 are made of a wooden base with a foam
interior padding and a leather or vinyl covering. The bench
apparatus sections 42, 44 could have more contours to fit more
snugly to the shape of the users body. The sections 42, 44 could
also have more sections or as few as one long section from head to
hips, which would disallow abdominal action to focus more on limb
movement and associated muscles.
[0033] The arm apparatuses 34, 36 are an elongate structure having
a first end, a middle section and a second end. The second end 72,
74 has the rotatable handle 76, 78 perpendicular to the adjustable
length arm adjoining a middle section having the tension creating
or releasing device 102, 104, and the second end adaptably fitted
to the base frame first end adjustable vertical arm accepting
section 30, 32. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the arm apparatus 34,
36 is an elongate structure having a first end, a middle section
and a second end. The handle 76, 78, best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, is
rotatable and perpendicular to the second end arm adjuster 72, 74.
The arm handle length adjuster 72, 74 is in direct communication
with and rotates through the axis of the middle section resistance
device 102, 104. The middle section of the arm apparatus 34, 36, is
preferably the friction-creating device 102, 104 similar to a brake
pad used in a car or bicycle forced into direct pressure against
the rotating axel of the arm apparatus 34, 36. These
friction-creating devices 102, 104 are commonly found in the market
place used in vehicles as mentioned and also in exercise equipment.
In the present invention the brake pad mechanism 102, 104 can be
tightened to adjustably create more friction and resistance by
turning a screw handle (not illustrated) inward or outward to the
desired resistance level as is done in some common exercise
equipment in use today.
[0034] The arm apparatus 34, 36 preferably fits into the arm frame
adjusters 30, 32, as shown in FIG. 1, and the handles 76, 78 can
then be rotated in an up and down arc or circular motion in either
direction, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 by a circular arrow 116. As
shown in FIG. 3, the arm apparatus 34, 36 can be vertically rotated
and adjusted at the second end 72, 74, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,
for the handles 76, 78 to be rotated on an in and out circular
motion, as shown by arrows 118, 120 in FIG. 3. The arm apparatus
34, 36 allows for several different ranges and directions of
motion, but additional variations such as spring biased adjustable
lengths of the arm motions (not illustrated) would allow elliptical
or oblong movements. The arm apparatuses 34, 36 could be allowed to
swivel to allow any type of direction at the user's discretion
during the exercise without having to stop and make adjustments.
The arm apparatuses 34, 36 could be connected by a detachable arm
122 (shown as dotted line in FIG. 1) to allow for use of only one
resistance device 102 or 104 for the upper body movements. The arm
122 also would lock the arm apparatus 30, 32 to work together as a
single unit, where desired and could include a cover (not
illustrated). The frame of the arm apparatus 30, 32 can be made of
round or square tubing.
[0035] The leg apparatus 40 is an elongate structure having a first
end, a middle section, and a second end with the two opposable
rotating arm pedal parts 108, 110. The first end 50 adaptably and
adjustably fits into the leg accepting section 80 of the base frame
second end. The length of the first end of the leg apparatus is
adjustable along its length to the middle section. The middle
section of the leg apparatus 40 is adaptably and rotatingly
adjoining the tension creating and releasing device 92. The second
ends of the leg apparatus are the adjustable opposing arm type
structures 112, 114, each rotating outwardly and circularly around
the axis of the tension device, and having the pedal structure 108,
110 on each end perpendicular to the adjustable arm length
extending from the tension device 92. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and
3, the leg apparatus 40, is an elongate structure having a first
end adaptably fitted to the base frame second end 28, a middle
section, and a second end with the two opposable rotating
adjustable arm 112, 114 and the pedal parts 108, 110. The first end
50 adjustably fits along its length, and supports a middle section,
as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The middle section resistance device 92
is similar in structure to the above described arm resistance
devices 102, 104. The leg pedal length adjusters 112, 114, along
the second end length of the leg apparatus, have two parts opposing
each other in similar fashion to a bicycle pedal, arm and pedal,
apparatus, as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. The leg apparatus 40
could be used with two moving arm pedals without opposing each
other. The base frame at the end 28 could be split to allow two leg
apparatuses 40 (not illustrated), one for each leg, so that outward
and inward motions could be used similar to the motions for the
upper body, as shown in FIG. 3. The frame can be made of round or
square tubing.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 the frame unit 24 has parallel
lengths with cross supports and vertical supports, most of which
are connected by welded joints. Adjustable sleeve type fittings
allow connections at joints such as 94, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,
each of which are secured by a pin or bolt 95 which fit through the
frame's radius, or by a screw in handle bolt (not illustrated) also
through the frame. The bench apparatus 42, 44 preferably is bolted
to the top frame 22, and is allowed to pivot on it's fulcrum center
support 98, by using a bolt 124 with a sleeve 126 through the upper
portion of the top frame 22 at the fulcrum center under each bench
42 and 44 as best shown in FIG. 2. The spring 96, as shown in FIG.
2 is bolted to the top frame 22 and the lower base frame 12. The
upper base frame 22 between the two sections of the bench apparatus
42, 44, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, above the spring 98 is also
connected with a bolt, and has an overlap of the enlarged
connection hole 126 to allow for up and down motion of the
abdominal flexion and spring motion. The headpiece 100 is attached
by one or more springs 130, which could be covered (not
illustrated) that allow a defined range of motion for the neck of
the user. The resistance devices for the leg motion 92 and for the
arm motion 102, 104 are mounted by welding or bolts similar in
design to a bicycle pedal axel device. Tension or resistance can be
applied inside or outside against the rotating axel, as is found in
many exercise bicycles and tread mills. The handles 76, 78 and the
pedals 108, 110, as shown in all FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, are attached
also with a bolt through a sleeve allowing rotation as exercise is
performed, as is commonly found on a bicycle pedal. A pair of belts
132, 134 of the bench apparatus 10 are attached (not illustrated)
under the torso seat 42 and the hip seat 44 and bolted tightly (not
illustrated) to the top frame 22, and are adjustably connected (not
illustrated) above or to the side of the user, preferably using a
Velcro type of connection. The belts 132, 134 can make use of a
buckle or snap together connection (not illustrated) securing the
user to the bench apparatus. All frame parts of the frame unit 24
can alternatively be bolted together or secured with push through
pins as previously described with respect to the adjustment arms
34, 36, as can be seen in FIG. 2. Magnetic resistance mechanisms
can also be employed in the pivoting sections 92, 102 and 104 as is
commonly used in stationary bicycle wind trainers.
[0037] The anti gravity range of motion four limb dry swim exercise
machine 10, marketed under the trademark AGROM-4LDS, operates by
having the user lie on their back, after adjusting the resistance
devices 92, 102 and 104 as desired, the arm and leg positions to
the desired length for range of motion, and fastening the belts
136, 134 tightly to the torso and the hips. The user then begins to
rotate the arm handles 76, 78 around the axis 102,104 in an up and
down circular motion as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, and the leg
pedals around it's axis 92, shown by arrows 116, 134, 136 as can be
seen in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3. The user can make circular motions in
either direction to emphasize different muscles, for example the
upper body motion can be up toward above the head, then following
the circular motion out away from the chest and then down toward
the abdominals followed by beginning to pull the handles 76, 78
back up toward the chest, which would emphasize different muscles
than rotating the handles in an opposite direction. The arms can
move in a half revolution ahead of each other in a fashion similar
to peddling a bicycle or the user can rotate the handles 76, 78
together in the circular path in either direction. The arm
apparatus 34, 36 can be rotated 90 degrees at its adjustable arm
frame to emphasize different muscle groups, as shown by the arrows
118, 120 in FIG. 3. The range of motion can be easily changed to a
smaller or larger range depending on the specific needs or goals of
the user by adjusting the arm lengths at the sections 72, 74 and
the leg lengths at the sections 112, 114. The resistance can be
increased or decreased also at the arm tension devices 102, 104 and
leg tension device 92. A typical workout could be to start slowly
with a smaller range of motion with little or no resistance for a
warm up. As the workout progresses, the range of motion and
resistance could be increased to work harder through a fuller range
of motion. The arms and legs and abdominals can all work in unison
thereby creating more work and coordination of effort and body
parts. The AGROM-4LDS exercise machine 10 is an extremely versatile
system allowing emphasis on virtually any muscle group or anaerobic
or aerobic needs or goals. The machine 10 can build or tone, build
strength or endurance, is light, compact and portable and can be
used by any age person or user for any type of goal.
[0038] As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and
operation of the present invention, the same should be apparent
from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion
relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided.
[0039] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the various
parts of the present invention, to include variations in size,
materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly
and use, are deemed readily apparent to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention.
[0040] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact
construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,
all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within the scope of the claims of the present
invention.
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