U.S. patent application number 11/490198 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for exercise cycle assembly.
Invention is credited to John Bowser.
Application Number | 20060258520 11/490198 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34914910 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060258520 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bowser; John |
November 16, 2006 |
Exercise cycle assembly
Abstract
An exercise cycle assembly that detachably connects to a chair
frame. The exercise cycle assembly includes a main frame having a
first end portion detachably connectable to a frame element of a
chair frame. The main frame includes support legs for supporting
the exercise cycle assembly relative to the floor; and, a pedal
assembly securely connected to the main frame. The first end
portion preferably includes an elongated connecting member having a
generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the frame
element of the chair. Generally, it connects to a horizontal
crossbar of the chair.
Inventors: |
Bowser; John; (Laguna Beach,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAWRENCE N. GINSBERG
21 SAN ANTONIO
NEWPORT BEACH
CA
92660-9112
US
|
Family ID: |
34914910 |
Appl. No.: |
11/490198 |
Filed: |
July 20, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11062063 |
Feb 18, 2005 |
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11490198 |
Jul 20, 2006 |
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10783532 |
Feb 21, 2004 |
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11062063 |
Feb 18, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/121 ;
482/123; 482/126 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/0605 20130101;
A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 22/0012 20130101; A63B 21/1672
20151001; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 23/12 20130101; A63B
2208/0252 20130101; A63B 21/00061 20130101; A63B 21/1609 20151001;
A63B 21/04 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001; A63B 2071/025 20130101;
A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 21/00069 20130101; A63B 22/0056
20130101; A63B 21/0557 20130101; A63B 22/0002 20130101; A63B
22/0694 20130101; A63B 2022/0652 20130101; A63B 2225/10 20130101;
A63B 23/03541 20130101; A63B 23/0476 20130101; A63B 2208/0233
20130101; A63B 2023/006 20130101; A63B 21/055 20130101; A63B 21/154
20130101; A63B 22/0046 20130101; A63B 23/03516 20130101; A63B
21/4043 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/121 ;
482/123; 482/126 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. An exercise cycle assembly that detachably connects to a chair
frame of a chair, comprising: a) a main frame having a first end
portion detachably connectable to a frame element of a chair frame,
said main frame including a plurality of support legs for
supporting the exercise cycle assembly relative to the floor; and,
b) a pedal assembly securely connected to said main frame.
2. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
for engagement with the frame element of the chair.
3. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
having a generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the
frame element of the chair.
4. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
having a generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the
frame element of the chair, sides of said elongated connecting
member having recessed portions for providing a snapping engagement
with the frame element.
5. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
having a generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the
frame element of said chair, said connecting member being oriented
so as to be open on its lower portion to engage a horizontal
portion of the frame element of the chair.
6. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1, wherein said main frame
includes an elongated main support element for supporting said
pedal assembly; and, wherein said first end portion of said main
frame, comprises: a stem in adjustable engagement with said main
support element for changing the position of the chair frame
relative to said pedal assembly; and; an elongated connecting
member securely connected to said stem, said elongated connecting
member for engagement with the frame element of the chair
frame.
7. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 6 wherein said stem is in
adjustable telescopic engagement with said main support
element.
8. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said plurality of
support legs are positioned at a second end portion of said
elongated main support element.
9. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said plurality of
support legs comprises two support legs.
10. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 1 wherein said elongated
connecting member includes an inner padding positioned on an inner
surface thereof for enhancing the engagement of said elongated
connecting member and said frame element.
11. An exercise cycle assembly for a resistance chair assembly for
a resistance chair of a type that connects to resistance cables,
comprising: a) a main frame having a first end portion detachably
connectable to a frame element of a chair frame of said resistance
chair, said main frame including a plurality of support legs for
supporting the exercise cycle assembly relative to the floor; and,
b) a pedal assembly securely connected to said main frame.
12. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
for engagement with the frame element of the chair.
13. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
having a generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the
frame element of the chair.
14. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said first end
portion of said main frame comprises an elongated connecting member
having a generally u-shaped cross-section for engagement with the
frame element of said chair, said connecting member being oriented
so as to be open on its lower portion to engage a horizontal
portion of the frame element of the chair.
15. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11, wherein said main
frame includes an elongated main support element for supporting
said pedal assembly; and, wherein said first end portion of said
main frame, comprises: a stem in adjustable engagement with said
main support element for changing the position of the chair frame
relative to said pedal assembly; and; an elongated connecting
member securely connected to said stem, said elongated connecting
member for engagement with the frame element of the chair
frame.
16. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 15 wherein said stem is in
adjustable telescopic engagement with said main support
element.
17. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said plurality
of support legs are positioned at a second end portion of said
elongated main support element.
18. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said plurality
of support legs comprises two support legs.
19. The exercise cycle assembly of claim 11 wherein said elongated
connecting member includes an inner padding positioned on an inner
surface thereof for enhancing the engagement of said elongated
connecting member and said frame element.
20. An exercise system, comprising: a) an exercise cycle assembly,
comprising: i. a main frame having a first end portion detachably
connectable to a frame element of a chair frame, said main frame
including a plurality of support legs for supporting the exercise
cycle assembly relative to the floor; and, ii. a pedal assembly
securely connected to said main frame; and, b) a resistance chair
assembly, comprising: i. a chair, comprising a chair frame; ii. a
first pulley assembly securely attached to said chair frame at a
first selected pulley location, said first pulley assembly having a
first activity bay; iii. a first anchor assembly securely attached
to said chair frame at a first selected anchor assembly location,
said first anchor assembly having a first cable locking pin; and,
iv. a first exercise resistance cable apparatus, comprising: 1. an
elastic exercise resistance cable; 2. a cable anchor ring securely
connected to a first end of said elastic exercise resistance cable;
and, 3. a handgrip connected to a second end of said elastic
exercise resistance cable, wherein during use said elastic exercise
resistance cable is directed through said first activity bay of
said first pulley assembly and ultimately attached, via said cable
anchor ring, to said cable locking pin of said first anchor
assembly of the chair frame.
21. An exercise cycle assembly that detachably connects to a
support structure, comprising: a) a main frame having a first end
portion detachably connectable to a frame element of a support
structure, said main frame including a plurality of support legs
for supporting the exercise cycle assembly relative to the floor,
said first end portion of said main frame comprising an elongated
connecting member having a generally u-shaped cross-section for
engagement with the frame element of the chair; and, b) a pedal
assembly securely connected to said main frame.
22. A method of exercising, comprising the steps of: a) attaching
an exercise cycle assembly to a chair frame by attaching an
elongated connecting member of a first end portion of a main frame
of said exercise cycle assembly to said chair frame, said elongated
connecting member having a generally u-shaped cross-section for
engagement with the frame element of said chair; and, b) pedaling
pedals of said exercise cycle assembly.
23. The method of exercising of claim 22, further comprising the
steps of: a) directing a first exercise resistance cable apparatus
through an activity bay of first pulley assembly attached to said
chair frame at a first selected pulley location, said first
exercise resistance cable apparatus of a type that includes an
elastic exercise resistance cable; a cable anchor ring securely
connected to a first end of said elastic exercise resistance cable;
and; a handgrip connected to a second end of said elastic exercise
resistance cable; b) directing said first exercise resistance cable
apparatus toward a first anchor assembly securely attached to said
chair frame at a first selected anchor assembly location, said
first anchor assembly having a first cable locking pin; c)
attaching the cable anchor ring of said first exercise resistance
cable apparatus to said first cable locking pin; and, d) utilizing
said handgrip to move and stretch said first exercise resistance
cable apparatus for exercise.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 11/062,063,
entitled "Exercise System Using Exercise Resistance Cables", filed
Feb. 18, 2005, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No.
10/783,532, entitled "Exercise System Using Exercise Resistance
Cables", filed Feb. 21, 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to exercise devices and
systems and more particularly to an exercise system that utilizes
an exercise cycle assembly that connects to a support
structure.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The use of resistance cables for exercising is well known in
the prior art. There are a multitude of different exercise systems
and devices that have been previously disclosed or are currently in
the market to supply the increasing demand for physical fitness.
Many of these utilize resistance cables. For example, as far back
as 1902, U.S. Pat. No. 704,840, issued to J. C. Korth et disclosed
the use of an exercising machine employing elastic cords. U.S. Pat.
No. 3,606,321, issued to N. D. Macoulis, discloses the use of
elastic cords and a pole. U.S. Pat. No. 3,843,119, issued to R. P.
Davis, discloses the use of a machine for exercising the arm
muscles while the user stands upon a base.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,019,734, issued to W. Lee et al, discloses
an elastic resistance type exercising device having a single length
of latex rubber surgical tubing whose two ends are formed into size
handle loops by the use of leather fasteners. The handle loops are
sleeved with vinyl tubing, and plugs are inserted in each of the
open ends of tubing, that have twice passed through the fasteners
to form the loops, to prevent the tubing from being pulled out of
the fasteners. A user grasps the handle loops or secures them about
his ankles and pulls against the elastic resistance. Two additional
flexible sleeves are slidably mounted over the portion of the
elastic tubing between the fasteners.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 3,677,543, issued to J. H. Richardson,
discloses a pull type exercising device including a single piece of
elastic tubing with loops formed at the respective ends of the
tubing by s-shaped hooks that receive folded ends of the tubing. On
each looped portion there is a sleeve. A slideable ring with an
anchoring attachment is mounted on a tubular member. A user inserts
an arm or leg in the loops and pulls his arm or leg and pulls on
the anchored tubular member.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,508,749, issued to R. L. Broadwater,
discloses a portable exercise device that includes an elastic cord
with two ends. Each of the ends of the cord is received into
opposite sides of a coupling. A clamp element is provided around a
portion of the coupling. The clamp element compresses the coupling
around the elastic cord to hold the cord in place inside the
coupling. A handle may be provided around the coupling. The handle
may be made from a resilient material so that the hand of the user
may squeeze it. Additionally, end plugs may be provided for the
handle to prevent the handle from slipping off the coupling.
[0009] U.S. Pat No. 4,251,071, issued to Craig D. Norton, discloses
an exercising device that comprises an elongated elastic cord with
a foot-receiving loop formed at each end and a hollow hand grip
with an axial bore extending from end to end with a longitudinally
extending split permitting one or two lengths of the elastic rope
to be inserted into the bore. The hand grip may be squeezed by the
hand for causing the wall of the bore to frictionally grip the
rope. The hand muscles are exercised by this squeezing action on
the hand grip and the arm and shoulder muscles are exercised when
the hand grip pulls on the rope to elongate it.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,852,874, issued to C. G. Sleichter, III et
al, disclose an exercise device that includes an elastic loop
having free ends spliced together, generally tubular handles
disposed in diametrically opposed relation to one another on the
loop and an elastic retainer sleeve surrounding intermediate
portions of the loop between the handles. The device is conformable
for use in performing a wide variety of exercises and for
performing a selected number of repetitions of each exercise by
grasping the handles and stretching against the resistance load of
the loop and the retainer means. The handles can be grasped either
by the hands or by a combination of hands and feet to perform
various exercises or may be grasped between the feet or ankle
portions to perform other exercises. In modified forms of the
invention, one of the handles is made rigid so as to simulate a
racquet or golf club handle to be used in practicing forehand and
backhand strokes or to simulate the golf swing. The exercises may
be performed effectively in either the standing, sitting or fully
prone position. Other modified forms of invention include an anchor
strap to facilitate practicing of the golf swing and a splice for
joining together free ends of the loop into a unitary member.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,733,862, issued to J. V. Miller discloses an
elastic resistance exerciser comprising an elongated elastic member
having a loop formed at each end, a tubular handle slidably fit
onto each loop of the elastic member, and a self-locking slider
having three holes; with the elastic member slidably threaded
through two of the holes and terminating the end of each loop in
the third hole of each slider; the slider being adjustable along
the elastic member, whereby the size of the loop may be varied by
moving the slider with no tension on the loop, but self-locking by
the application of tension to the loop. A preferred embodiment
provides a band of flexible material attached approximately to the
center of the length of an elastic member having more than one
elastic element.
[0012] The above-mentioned patents each use elastic cable which
functions as a resistance tool for exercising the body. In some
cases the elastic/rubber cable is the only thing necessary to
achieve the complete workout. In other cases a secondary product,
such as a door, a handle or some sort of stationary device is
required in order to use the product as designed.
[0013] There are a variety of patents that disclose exercise
systems related to chairs. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,298,
issued to J. L. Curtis; U.S. Pat. No. 5,417,643, issued to M. D.
Taylor; U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,171, issued to M. E. Casey; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,080,353, issued to L. Teach; U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,633, issued
to B. A. Rice; U.S. Pat. No. 4,921,247, issued to J. F. Sterling;
U.S. Pat. No. 4,838,547, issued to J. F. Sterling; U.S. Pat. No.
4,720,099, issued to R. B. Carlson; U.S. Pat. No. 1,279,120, issued
to J. H. Kellogg; U.S. Publicn No. 2002/0173412 to K. W. Stearns;
and, U.S. Publicn No. 2002/0077228 to R. W. McBride each disclose
chair-related related exercise devices which have generally
complicated designs.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,913,423, issued to M. R. Farran, discloses a
furniture article, such as a seating article, for residential and
office use that includes a frame housing, one or more exercise
apparatus that are located in the armrest, the back and the seating
base. The frame is selectively covered to provide the seating
article with the appearance of a conventional furniture article
used in the home or office. Each exercise apparatus employs a cable
extending through the covering to communicate a source of resistive
force from within the frame to a user outside of the frame. On the
end of the cable outside of the covering is a handle or a foot
stirrup by which the user pulls the cable out of the seating
article. A cover conceals the handle or foot stirrup as well as the
end of the cable while the exercise aspects of the furniture
article are not being utilized. As in the other patents, discussed
above, the Farran system is somewhat complicated. Furthermore, it
is non-mobile and is limited in the amount of workout routines
allotted.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,362,296, issued to L. Wang et al., discloses
a chair mounting exercising unit includes two swinging arms having
a bottom end fastened to either end of a substantially U-shaped
locating rod being fixed to the back of a chair by a knob
controlled lock device and a slotted side extension plate in the
middle at an outer side movably hung on a screw bolt at either end
of a horizontal frame on the back of the chair and a top end
coupled with a pulley wheel assembly, and two elastic pull ropes
respectively inserted through either pulley wheel assembly and
fastened to either swinging arm and an opposite end coupled with a
handle. With the increasing population of elderly persons and their
desire for increased exercise there is a concomitant growing need
for exercise equipment that the elderly can easily and efficiently
use. The '296 patent system has two swinging arms each having a
bottom end connected to either end of the locating rod and attached
to either locating wheel. A mobile/moving system is not generally
preferred for use with the elderly and is somewhat complicated.
Positioning of the swinging arms requires time and labor. The
present invention, as will be disclosed below, is designed for
specific exercises and is excellent for users who have limited
range of movement. It allows for a very stable environment
minimizing movement in the setup process and eliminating the need
for pulley arms. The present invention also allows the user to
change cables without having to get up from the chair since all of
the cable connections are set up on the sides of the chair versus
the cables connections being on the back of the chair as disclosed
in the '296 patent.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,674,167, issued to G. D. Piaget et al.,
discloses a strength training exercise apparatus includes a frame
having an upright back rest, and a horizontal seat, and further
includes opposing arm members pivotally mounted to the back rest.
The arm members are movable through an arcuate range of motion, and
include locking pins for selectively locking the arm members in
desired angular positions. The apparatus still further includes a
resistance assembly consisting of a fixed anchor mounted on the
frame, a movable anchor which is movable relative to the fixed
anchor, and a plurality of elastomeric resistance cords releasably
secured between the movable anchor and the fixed anchor to provide
resistance to movement of the movable anchor. A pull line is
mounted on guide pulleys along the length of the arm members, and
is received in association with the movable anchor whereby outward
movement of the pull line with respect to the arm members causes
movement of the movable anchor with respect to the fixed anchor.
The exercise apparatus further consists of a leg member pivotally
mounted to the seat, and a second resistance assembly including a
second movable anchor coupled to the leg member, and a second
plurality of elastomeric resistance cords secured between the fixed
anchor and the second movable anchor for providing resistance to
pivotal movement of the leg member. Seniors need ease of use when
it involves getting on and off of the chair. The '167 patent system
has opposing arm members pivotally mounted to the back rest. The
arm members are movable through an arcuate range of motion and
include locking pins for selectively locking the arm members in
desired angular positions. While using the '167 device the user
typically needs to get off of the chair in order to make the rear
and lower connections. As noted above and as will be disclosed
below, the exercise chair of the present invention allows the user
to remain seated to make the necessary connections on the side of
the chair.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,899,836, issued to P. Chen, discloses an
exerciser includes a foot support secured in front of a base. A
lever has a lower portion pivotally coupled to the base and has a
bracket and a seat cushion pivotally secured on tops for allowing
the seat cushion to be moved upward and downward. A tube is secured
to the bracket for supporting one or more pulleys. The base has one
or more pulleys secured to the front and the rear portions. One or
more resilient members are engaged with the pulleys. A handle may
be secured to the resilient member for conducting pulling
exercises. The tube and a pulley may be moved upward and downward
in concert with the seat cushion. The present invention does not
have a secured foot rest and does not require the use of levers.
The '836 design requires many steps for exercise setup and
disassembly.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 6,117,056, issued to T. F. Cataldi, Jr. et
al., discloses an exercise device attachable to the seat portion of
a chair to resist forces applied in performing isotonic exercises.
The device includes a strap securable to a chair and a seat pad
positionable on the strap for supporting an exerciser and has
D-rings secured to the strap and the seat pad for attachment of an
elastic band for performing arm isotonic exercises with a hand band
attachment. The device also includes a front flap securable at one
end between the seat pad and strap and securable at an opposite end
to a downwardly forward portion of the chair for performing leg
isotonic exercises with an attached elastic band and an ankle strap
attachment.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 6,159,133, issued to R. C. Shugg, discloses a
seat mounted workout station system is provided including a seating
assembly having a seat portion and a back portion. Also included is
a frame mounted on a rear surface of the back portion of the
seating assembly. Next provided is a plurality of tension members
connected to the frame and further connected to cables which are
routed through the frame via pulleys. Hand grips are connected to
the cables for being gripped by a user.
[0020] As noted above, with the increasing population of elderly
persons and their desire for increased exercise there is an
associated growing need for exercise equipment that the elderly can
easily and efficiently use. As will be disclosed below, the present
invention satisfies these needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0021] In one broad aspect, the present invention is an exercise
cycle assembly that detachably connects to a chair frame. The
exercise cycle assembly includes a main frame having a first end
portion detachably connectable to a frame element of a chair frame.
The main frame includes support legs for supporting the exercise
cycle assembly relative to the floor; and, a pedal assembly
securely connected to the main frame.
[0022] The first end portion preferably includes an elongated
connecting member having a generally u-shaped cross-section for
engagement with the frame element of the chair. Generally, it
connects to a horizontal crossbar of the chair.
[0023] The systems of the present invention are particularly
advantageous for use with elderly persons. The present invention is
easy to use, particularly for the elderly, because, assuming that
the chairs are set up, the person merely picks up the desired
cables and brings those cables to his or her workout station,
attaches the cable(s) and is ready to work out.
[0024] Similarly, the exercise cycle assembly can easily be
connected to the exercise chair.
[0025] Foldable chairs may be utilized that can be stored or kept
in a variety of places such as in the home, hotels, retirement
communities, health clubs, and physical therapy centers. Use of
such foldable chairs provides a very mobile environment.
[0026] The present exercise system provides strength training
without the stress of a pre-designed rigid machine. A person can
take cables, connect them to the anchor assembly and exercise in
accordance with his body height and size.
[0027] The chair may be integrated into a universal gym system and
utilized with a variety of exercises.
[0028] Use of the present invention has several advantages over the
prior art. It allows the user to easily change resistance levels
and adjust resistant lengths--all from a seated position. The
present inventive concepts provide safe, low impact exercise
solutions that are easy to use and make the user feel better. The
folding resistance chair provides a very convenient home exercise
system. The chair allows the user to perform a full body workout
from a safe, comfortable seated position. When seated, balance and
stability is maintained as the arms, chest, shoulders, abdomen,
back, and legs are exercised. The anchor assemblies ensure that the
cable remains at the best angle for each exercise. The unique cable
system offers a wide range of upper body and lower body exercises
and provides resistance without use of heavy weights. When
utilizing the resistance cables with the resistance chair, the user
is provided with a safe, comfortable, secure and well rounded
exercise routine.
[0029] The resistance chair has a pair of front legs that are each
forwardly curved at an intermediate region thereof to enhance
weight distribution for optimizing stability. This weight
distribution design ("WDD") provides a secure and safe structure
particularly advantageous utilizing recommended balance bar
exercise routines.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the
exercise resistance cable apparatus of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exercise chair of the
first embodiment of the present invention with two exercise
resistance cable apparatus' shown attached thereto.
[0032] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a cable expansion
anchor engaged with an activity bay of the support structure.
[0033] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternate version of an
exercise chair which is foldable.
[0034] FIG. 5 perspective view of a first embodiment of universal
exercise gym system in accordance with the principles of the
present invention.
[0035] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate universal
exercise gym system without a stepper assembly but still utilizing
the resistance cable setup of the first embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 7 is perspective view of another embodiment of the
exercise resistance cable apparatus of the present invention in
which a cable anchor ring securely connected to a first end of the
elastic exercise resistance cable, that engages a pulley assembly
of a support structure, is used to connect to an anchor assembly of
the support structure.
[0037] FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the anchor
assembly of the FIG. 7 embodiment showing the resistance cable
detached and adjacent to that anchor assembly.
[0038] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a pulley assembly
in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of an exercise chair
with four exercise resistance cable apparatus' shown attached, the
chair including a balance bar.
[0040] FIG. 11 is a left side perspective view of the exercise
chair of FIG. 10 with a user shown using the lower exercise
resistance cable apparatus.
[0041] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a universal exercise gym
system in accordance with the principles of the present invention,
utilizing the exercise resistance cable apparatus of FIG. 7.
[0042] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an exercise cycle
assembly of the present invention, shown used in conjunction with
the exercise chair of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the exercise cycle
assembly.
[0044] FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of an end portion of
the exercise cycle assembly including the elongated connecting
member thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0045] Referring now to the drawings and the characters of
reference marked thereon, FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of
the exercise resistance cable apparatus of the present invention,
designated generally as 10. The exercise resistance cable apparatus
10 includes a first cable/anchor module 12 and a handgrip 14.
Additional cable/anchor modules 12', 12'' are connected to the
first cable/anchor module 12. The cable/anchor modules 12 are
serially connected to provide a desired user length and
resistance.
[0046] Each cable/anchor module 12 includes an elastic exercise
resistance cable 16 which is connected at an end thereof to a cable
expansion anchor 18. Each cable expansion anchor 18 is preferably
spool-shaped and includes a shaft 20 and two longitudinally spaced
radially extending flanges 22.
[0047] The additional cable/anchor modules 12', 12'', . . . 12''
are connected to provide the correct user length and resistance
commensurate with the user's strength. Generally, the resistance is
tied to the thickness or grade of materials used for the cable.
Preferably, a varying degree of cables are implemented for use with
this invention. They may be categorized, for example, in terms of
light, medium and heavy resistance. Or, they may be more
particularly be referred to relative to their resistance in pounds,
i.e., Light--5 to 15 lbs of resistance, Medium--16 to 30 lbs of
resistance. Heavy--31 to 45 lbs of resistance.
[0048] The elastic exercise resistance cables 16 are preferably
formed of rubber; however, they may be formed of other suitable
stretchable materials.
[0049] The cable expansion anchors 18 are preferably formed of
hardened rubber; however, they may be formed of other strong
materials.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 2, the exercise resistance cable
apparatus 10 is shown having been attached to an exercise chair,
designated generally as 24. The chair 24 includes a chair frame 26
and a number of activity bays 28a-f and 30a-f. Each activity bay
28, 30 includes a slot 32 which is preferably L-shaped. The slots
are positioned at desired locations on the chair frame 26 which are
associated with designated exercises. The activity bays 28 are
strategically placed on the resistance chairs to allow comfortable,
ergonomically friendly and safe exercise routines. A shaft 20 of
the chosen expansion anchor 18 is friction fitted within a desired
slot 32. The slots 32 are oriented in the reverse direction of the
applied pulling force for a designated exercise routine. Although
FIG. 2 shows the resistance cables as projecting out horizontally,
this is for the purpose of more clearly showing the features of the
invention. The resistance cables are typically much more flaccid
than as shown in this figure. (This is also the case with some of
the illustrations of these cables in subsequent figures.)
[0051] Various exercise routines are available at the activity bays
28:
[0052] A. Activity Bays 28a, 30a:
[0053] i) Abdominal crunchs--Stomach--Abdominal, Oblique.
[0054] iii) Triceps press--Arms--Triceps, Flexor Carpi Radials,
Palmaris Longus
[0055] iii) Decline Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0056] iv) Chest Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0057] B. Activity Bays 28b, 30b:
[0058] i) Chest Fly--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus Dorsi
[0059] C. Activity Bays 28c, 30c:
[0060] i) Incline Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0061] D. Activity Bays 28d, 30d:
[0062] i) Triceps Press--Arms--Triceps, Flexor Carpi Radials,
Palmaris Longus
[0063] ii) Overhead Press--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid, Triceps
[0064] E. Activity Bays 28e, 30e:
[0065] i) Triceps Press--Arms--Triceps, Flexor Carpi Radials,
Palmaris Longus
[0066] ii) Overhead Press--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid, Triceps
[0067] F. Activity Bays 28f, 30f:
[0068] i) Arm Curls--Arms--Biceps/Forearms-Extensor Digitorum,
Brachioradialis
[0069] ii) Upright Rows--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0070] iii) Lateral Raises--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0071] iv) Front Raises--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0072] v) Rear Delts--Back--Latissimus Dorsi, Teres Major, Rear
Deltoid
[0073] vi) Neck Rows--Back and Neck--Middle and Lower Trapezius,
Platysma
[0074] Still referring to FIG. 2, the top part of the seat back
preferably includes a balance bar section 33. The balance bar
section 33 provides the capability of performing the following
exercises:
[0075] i) Squats--Legs--Gluteus Maximus, Satorius, Vastus Medialis,
Vastus Lateralis, Rectus Femoris
[0076] ii) Balancing--Body--Mental and muscular and body
control
[0077] iii) Stretching--Body--Range allows for stretching of
various upper and lower muscle groups
[0078] iv) Calf Raises--Gastrocnemius Muscle both Medial and
Lateral heads
[0079] Referring now to FIG. 3, a cable expansion anchor 18 is
shown engaged with an activity bay 28 of a support structure. The
cable expansion anchor 18 is securely friction fit within the
activity bay 28 so as to allow minimal movement.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 4 implementation of the principles of
the present invention are shown with respect to a folding chair,
designated generally as 34. As in the non-folding version, the
folding chair 34 includes a plurality of activity bays 28, 30.
Folding chairs 34 provide for convenient storage in a side-by-side
manner while the non-folding embodiments 24 conveniently stack upon
each other.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 5, implementation of the principles of
this invention is shown relative to a universal gym exercise
system, designated generally as 36. This universal gym exercise
system 36 includes a main frame, designated generally as 38, and a
number of exercise components associated with the main frame. One
of these components includes a support structure, i.e. exercise
chair 40, having activity bays 42. Other components of the exercise
system 36 may include a stepper assembly 44, a handle assembly 46,
an ergometer 48, and a step rotator assembly 50. There is a wide
variety of exercise equipment that can be connected to the frame
38, for example, a rowing machine or elliptical machine.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 6, another embodiment of a universal
gym is illustrated, designated generally as 52. Universal gym 52 is
similar to that of FIG. 5; however, the stepper assembly 44 is
omitted. The universal gyms disclosed in this patent application
will be marketed and distributed under the trademark Resistance
Gym.TM..
[0083] Although the present invention as thus far been described
with reference to a exercise resistance cable apparatus having a
handle at one end, FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate embodiment,
designated generally as 54, in which the handles 56 are provided at
both ends of the exercise resistance cable apparatus 54.
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of the exercise
resistance cable apparatus is illustrated, designated generally as
60. In this embodiment, the exercise resistance cable apparatus 60
includes an elastic exercise resistance cable, designated generally
as 62; a cable anchor ring, designated generally as 64, securely
connected to a first end of the elastic exercise resistance cable
62; and, a handgrip, designated generally as 66, connected to a
second end of the elastic exercise resistance cable 62. The
exercise resistance cable 62, as noted relative to the previous
embodiment, may be formed of rubber or other suitable stretchable
materials. These exercise resistance cable apparatuses will be sold
and marketed under the trademark Resistance Anchor Cable.TM..
[0085] The cable anchor ring 64 includes a circular section 68 and
an integral extension 70 extending from the circular section 68.
The integral extension 70 is securely attached to the first end of
the elastic exercise resistance cable 62. Although the cable anchor
ring 64 is shown as having a circular section 68 obviously other
shapes for the ring can be used as long as it provides a suitable
connection as described below. A plastic cover 72 is preferably
positioned around the integral extension 70 and the portion of the
first end of the elastic exercise resistance cable 62 in the
vicinity of the integral extension 70. The plastic cover 72 may be
color coded to define a selected level of resistance. The hand grip
66 preferably includes a spring 74 and D-ring 76 connection.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 8, the cable anchor ring 64 of the
exercise resistance cable apparatus 60 connects to an anchor
assembly, designated generally as 78, of a support structure 80.
The anchor assembly 78 includes a base 82 securely attached to the
support structure 80 at a selected anchor assembly location, as
will be discussed in detail below.
[0087] A pair of spaced parallel support rails 84 extends from
respective sides of the base 82 and serves as a guideway for the
elastic exercise resistance cable 62. A cable locking pin 86
extends from the base 82 for securing the cable anchor ring 64.
[0088] Referring now to FIG. 10, application of the exercise
resistance cable apparatus 60 to a support structure comprising a
chair, designated generally as 88, is illustrated. In this exercise
system, designated generally as 89, the chair frame 90 of the chair
88 has a first anchor assembly 78 secured thereto at approximately
seat level on a first side of the chair frame and second anchor
assembly 78' secured thereto at approximately seat level on a
second side of the chair frame 90. The support rails 84 are
directed toward a first pulley assembly, designated generally as
92, positioned at approximately shoulder height level on the first
side of the chair frame 90.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 9, an exploded view of the pulley
assembly 92 is illustrated. The pulley assembly 92. The pulley
assembly 92 includes a u-bracket 94 secured to the support
structure 90. The u-bracket 94 has a pair of arms 96 having
respective u-bracket openings therein. A pulley 98 has a pulley
opening 100 extending through a first portion thereof. The pulley
98 has a second portion having an activity bay opening 102 formed
therein defining an activity bay for receiving a resistance cable
62. A pulley pin 104 extends through the pulley opening 100 and
through the u-bracket openings 96 to secure the pulley 98 to the
support structure 90.
[0090] Referring again now to FIG. 10, it can be seen that the
chair 88 includes a second pulley assembly 106 positioned at
approximately ankle height level on the first side of the chair
frame 90, a third pulley assembly 92' positioned at approximately
shoulder height level on the second side of the chair frame 90 and
a fourth pulley assembly 106' positioned at approximately ankle
height level on the second side of the chair frame. During use, the
operator can connect the resistance cables in the desired
orientation. Each elastic exercise resistance cable is directed
through an associated activity bay of its associated pulley
assembly and ultimately attached, via its cable anchor ring, to the
cable locking pin of that anchor assembly.
[0091] As most clearly seen in FIG. 11 both of the exercise
resistance cable apparatus 60 on each side of the chair share a
common anchor assembly 78.
[0092] Various exercise routines are available using the upper and
lower pulleys, as follows:
[0093] A. Upper Pulley Activity Bays 92, 92':
[0094] i) Abdominal crunches--Stomach--Abdominal, Oblique.
[0095] iii) Triceps press--Arms--Triceps, Flexor Carpi Radials,
Palmaris Longus
[0096] iii) Decline Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0097] iv) Chest Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0098] v) Chest Fly--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus Dorsi
[0099] vi) Incline Press--Chest--Pectoralis Major, Latissimus
Dorsi
[0100] vii) Triceps Press--Arms--Triceps, Flexor Carpi Radials,
Palmaris Longus
[0101] viii) Overhead Press--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid, Triceps
[0102] B. Lower Pulley Activity Bays 106, 106':
[0103] i) Arm Curls--Arms--Biceps/Forearms-Extensor Digitorum,
Brachioradialis
[0104] ii) Upright Rows--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0105] iii) Lateral Raises--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0106] iv) Front Raises--Shoulders--Anterior Deltoid, Middle
Deltoid
[0107] v) Rear Delts--Back--Latissimus Dorsi, Teres Major, Rear
Deltoid
[0108] vi) Neck Rows--Back and Neck--Middle and Lower Trapezius,
Platysma
[0109] Thus, the activity bays are strategically placed on the
resistance chairs to allow comfortable, ergonomically friendly and
safe exercise routines.
[0110] The top part of the seat back preferably includes a balance
bar section 108. The balance bar section 108 provides the
capability of performing the following exercises:
[0111] i) Squats--Legs--Gluteus Maximus, Satorius, Vastus Medialis,
Vastus Lateralis, Rectus Femoris
[0112] ii) Balancing--Body--Mental and muscular and body
control
[0113] iii) Stretching--Body--Range allows for stretching of
various upper and lower muscle groups
[0114] iv) Calf Raises--Gastrocnemius Muscle both Medial and
Lateral heads
[0115] This exercise chair 88 will be marketed and distributed
under the trademark Resistance Chair.TM..
[0116] A stepper 110 may be utilized with the exercise chair 88.
The stepper 110 includes flanges 112 that have openings 114 for
engaging the feet 116 of the chair 88. When positioned on the front
feet 116 the chair effectively locks the stepper 110 in place to
prevent slippage and obviate potential injuries. The stepper 110
positions the person in a beneficial posture for increased balance
and stability. This stepper 110 will be marketed and distributed
under the trademark Health Step.TM..
[0117] When positioned on the rear feet 118, as shown by the
phantom lines, the stepper 110 serves as a secure platform for calf
raises, squats, balancing and stretching.
[0118] A back support assembly 120 includes a back support 122 and
clips 124 for engaging the balance bar section 108 of the chair
frame 76. This back support assembly 120 will be marketed and
distributed under the trademark PosturePropTM. The back support
assembly 120 positions the user forwardly to provide him with a
beneficial posture and positioning on the chair 88. In this
embodiment, the balance bar section 108 is part of the chair frame
90. As in the explanation above, the balance bar section 108
provides the capability of performing various exercises.
[0119] The front legs of the chair frame 90 are each forwardly
curved at an intermediate region thereof to enhance weight
distribution for optimizing stability. This weight distribution
design ("WDD") provides a secure and safe embodiment of the
structure while utilizing recommended balance bar exercise
routines. The need for enhanced stability is imperative for
exercise equipment intended for senior use. Generally, senior
citizens may not have the balancing capabilities that younger
persons have. Furthermore, they are more susceptible to injury from
a fall.
[0120] Referring now to FIG. 12, implementation of the principles
of this invention is shown relative to a universal gym exercise
system, designated generally as 126. As in the FIG. 5 embodiment,
this system includes a main frame, designated generally as 126, and
a number of exercise components associated with the main frame. One
of these components includes a support structure, i.e. exercise
chair 128, having activity bays at various positions. Other
components of the exercise system 126 may include a handle assembly
130, an ergometer (i.e. handbike) 132, and a recumbent bike
assembly 134. There is a wide variety of exercise equipment that
can be connected to the frame 114, for example, a rowing machine,
elliptical machine 136, a stepper, or e.g., a number of leisure
activity sporting enhancements concepts such as golf or tennis
swing strengtheners.
[0121] Activity bays 138, 138' are positioned on respective
extensions 140, 142 of the seat back frame section of the exercise
chair 128. Anchor assembly 144 and its associated anchor assembly
(not visible in this figure) on the other side of the chair are
positioned on the seat bottom frame section 146 of the chair.
Activity bays 148, 148' are located on the pedestal section 150 of
the chair 128.
[0122] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, an exercise cycle assembly
is illustrated, designated generally as 152, which can be used in
conjunction with a support structure, preferably a chair 153. The
exercise cycle assembly 152 includes a main frame 154 having a
first end portion, designated generally as 156, detachably
connectable to a frame element 157 of the chair frame. The main
frame 154 of the exercise cycle assembly 152 includes support legs
158, preferably located at a second, opposite end portion, for
supporting the exercise cycle assembly 152 relative to the floor. A
pedal assembly, designated generally as 160, is securely connected
to the main frame 154. The pedal assembly 160 may be of a
conventional type and can be belt driven or magnetic wheel driven
with an LCD display.
[0123] The main frame 154 includes an elongated main support
element 162 for supporting the pedal assembly 160. The first end
portion 156 includes a stem 164 in adjustable telescopic engagement
with the main support element 162 for changing the position of the
chair frame relative to the pedal assembly 160 and setting that
position. As can be seen in FIG. 14 an adjustment knob 166 can be
used to adjust the position of the chair frame relative to the
pedal assembly 160. The pedal assembly 160 typically has an LCD
display and knob 167 for adjusting the tension. An elongated
connecting member 168 is securely connected to the stem 164 by
soldering or suitable adhesive bonding.
[0124] As can be best seen in FIG. 15, the elongated connecting
member 168 has a generally u-shaped cross-section which is open on
its lower end for engagement with the frame element, i.e.
horizontal crossbar 157, of the chair frame. The sides 170 of the
elongated connecting member 168 preferably have recessed portions
172 for providing a snapping engagement with the frame element. It
also preferably includes an inner padding 174 positioned on an
inner surface thereof for enhancing the engagement of the elongated
connecting member and the frame element. The ends 176 of the sides
170 of the connecting member 168 are preferably slightly v'd out to
minimize peeling of the inner padding while the connecting member
168 is snapped into position. The inner padding 174 is preferably
formed of hardened rubber.
[0125] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present
invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is,
therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended
claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as
specifically described. For example, although this invention has
been described relative to its use with an exercise chair other
applications are possible such as utilizing these inventive
concepts with a flat support structure that would be placed
underneath a person who is bed ridden or does not have use of their
legs. This embodiment would slide under the user and allow them,
from a laying down position, to use the system as if they were
sitting in the chair.
* * * * *