U.S. patent application number 11/246183 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-12 for free weight support device.
Invention is credited to Grant Murray, Hubert Van Niekerk.
Application Number | 20070082795 11/246183 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37911650 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070082795 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Murray; Grant ; et
al. |
April 12, 2007 |
Free weight support device
Abstract
A free weight support device for use with an exercise bench that
is pivotally positionable between a first and second position, and
having a base, first and second vertical members pivotally coupled
to the base and positioned on opposite sides of the bench, and a
foot member coupled to the first and second vertical members and
operable by one or more feet of the weightlifter. The foot member
being proximate to a front end of the bench and pivotally coupled
to the base for pivotally adjusting the position of the first and
second vertical members between a first position and a second
position. When adjusted into the first position, the first and
second vertical members are positioned generally vertically to
support the weight of the free weights away from the weightlifter's
arms. When adjusted into the second position, the first and second
vertical members are pivotally positioned to permit the
weightlifter to retrieve the free weights. The first and second
vertical members include weight supports having notches to permit
the retrieval and replacement of the free weight by the
weightlifter.
Inventors: |
Murray; Grant; (London,
CA) ; Van Niekerk; Hubert; (London, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GEORGE A. ROLSTON
45 SHEPPARD AVE EAST
SUITE 900
TORONTO
ON
M2N5W9
CA
|
Family ID: |
37911650 |
Appl. No.: |
11/246183 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/104 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/078 20130101;
A63B 21/4029 20151001; A63B 21/0783 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/104 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/078 20060101
A63B021/078 |
Claims
1. A free weight support device for use with an exercise bench, the
free weight support device comprising: (a) a base; (b) first and
second vertical members positionable on opposite sides of the
bench, the first and second vertical members being pivotally
coupled to the base and adapted to support one or more free
weights; and (c) a foot member coupled to the first and second
vertical members and operable by one or more feet of a
weightlifter, the foot member being proximate to a front end of the
bench and pivotally coupled to the base for pivotally adjusting the
position of the first and second vertical members between a first
position and a second position, whereby in the first position the
first and second vertical members are positioned generally
vertically to support the weight of the free weights away from the
weightlifter's arms, and whereby in the second position the first
and second vertical members are pivotally positioned to permit the
weightlifter to retrieve the free weights.
2. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein each
of the first and second vertical members include a weight support
having an interior surface adapted for receiving and supporting the
free weight.
3. The free weight support device defined in claim 2, wherein the
interior surface is formed with a notch on a bottom edge to permit
the retrieval and replacement of the free weight.
4. The free weight support device defined in claim 3, wherein the
interior surface has generally arcuate shape.
5. The free weight support device defined in claim 3, wherein the
interior surface has a generally v-shape.
6. The free weight support device defined in claim 3, wherein the
interior surface is shaped to conform to the profile of the free
weight.
7. The free weight support device defined in claim 2, wherein each
of the first and second vertical supports including an adjustment
means for positioning said weight supports at a desired location on
the first and second vertical supports.
8. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein in
the first position the first and second vertical supports are
positioned generally vertically to stably support the free weights
by the weightlifter before and after weight training exercises.
9. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the retrieval of the free weights from the weight
supports.
10. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms
permit the retrieval of the free weights from the weight
supports.
11. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the replacement of the free weights on the weight
supports.
12. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the replacement of the free weights on the weight
supports.
13. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein the
advancement of the first and second vertical members between the
first and second positions is in a direction generally parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the exercise bench.
14. The free weight support device defined in claim, wherein the
advancement of the first and second vertical members between the
first and second positions is in a direction generally parallel to
the transverse axis of the exercise bench.
15. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein the
foot member has a bar which is pivotally coupled to the first and
second vertical members at a pivot axis.
16. The free weight support device defined in claim 1, wherein the
foot member includes a stop means for releasably securing the first
and second vertical members in the first position and second
position.
17. The free weight support device defined in claim 16, wherein the
stop means is operable between an engaged position and a released
position, whereby in the engaged position the stop means releasably
secures the first and second vertical members in the first and
second positions, and whereby in the released position the stop
means permits the movement of the first and second vertical members
between the first and second positions.
18. The free weight support device defined in claim 16, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a ratchet member.
19. The free weight support device defined in claim 16, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a pneumatic member.
20. The free weight support device defined in claim 16, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a hydraulic member.
21. The free weight support device defined in claim 16, wherein the
stop means is releasable secured by a spring member.
22. An exercise apparatus for use with free weights, the exercise
apparatus comprising: (a) an exercise bench having a back end, a
front end and a base (b) first and second vertical members coupled
to opposite sides of the exercise bench, the first and second
vertical members being adapted to support one or more free weights;
and (c) a foot member coupled to the first and second vertical
members and operable by one or more feet of a weightlifter, the
foot member being proximate to a front end of the bench and
pivotally coupled to the base for pivotally adjusting the position
of the first and second vertical members between a first position
and a second position, whereby in the first position the first and
second vertical members are positioned generally vertically to
support the weight of the free weights away from the weightlifter's
arms, and whereby in the second position the first and second
vertical members are pivotally positioned to permit the
weightlifter to retrieve the free weights.
23. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein
each of the first and second vertical members include a weight
support having an interior surface adapted for receiving and
supporting the free weight.
24. The free weight support device defined in claim 23, wherein the
interior surface is formed with a notch on a bottom edge to permit
the retrieval and replacement of the free weight.
25. The free weight support device defined in claim 24, wherein the
interior surface has a generally arcuate shape.
26. The free weight support device defined in claim 24, wherein the
interior surface has a generally v-shape.
27. The free weight support device defined in claim 24, wherein the
interior surface is shaped to conform to the profile of the free
weight.
28. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein
each of the first and second vertical supports including an
adjustment means for positioning said weight supports at a desired
location on the first and second vertical supports.
29. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein in
the first position the first and second vertical supports are
positioned generally vertically to stably support the free weights
by the weightlifter before and after weight training exercises.
30. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the retrieval of the free weights from the weight
supports.
31. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms
permit the retrieval of the free weights from the weight
supports.
32. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the replacement of the free weights on the weight
supports.
33. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein in
the second position the first and second vertical supports are
pivotally adjusted rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms to
permit the replacement of the free weights on the weight
supports.
34. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein the
advancement of the first and second vertical members between the
first and second positions is in a direction generally parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the exercise bench.
35. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein the
advancement of the first and second vertical members between the
first and second positions is in a direction generally parallel to
the transverse axis of the exercise bench.
36. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein the
foot member has a bar which is pivotally coupled to the first and
second vertical members at a pivot axis.
37. The free weight support device defined in claim 22, wherein the
foot member includes a stop means for releasably securing the first
and second vertical members in the first position and second
position.
38. The free weight support device defined in claim 37, wherein the
stop means is operable between an engaged position and a released
position, whereby in the engaged position the stop means releasably
secures the first and second vertical members in the first and
second positions, and whereby in the released position the stop
means permits the movement of the first and second vertical members
between the first and second positions.
39. The free weight support device defined in claim 37, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a ratchet member.
40. The free weight support device defined in claim 37, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a pneumatic member.
41. The free weight support device defined in claim 37, wherein the
stop means is releasably secured by a hydraulic member.
42. The free weight support device defined in claim 37, wherein the
stop means is releasable secured by a spring member.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of free weight
support devices, and more particularly to free weight support
devices that pivotally retract to enable a weightlifter to perform
strength training.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Strength training using free weights or other forms of
resistance is an important aspect of a complete physical fitness
regime. Physiologically, the benefits of strength training using
weights include an increase in muscle size and tone, increased
muscle strength, and increases in tendon, bone, and ligament
strength. Moreover, strength-training has also been shown to
improve psychological health as well, by increasing self-esteem,
confidence and self-worth.
[0003] When beginning an intensive exercise regime, many people
retain the services of a skilled trainer to learn the proper
techniques for utilizing the various dumbbells, barbells and other
weightlifting equipment in a conventional gym facility. The term
"dumbbell" is used herein to describe a free weight having a
relatively short bar designed to be grasped with one hand by the
weightlifter and lifted with one arm alone. Conversely, the term
"barbell" is used herein to describe a free weight have a longer
bar designed to be grasped with both hands by the weightlifter and
lifted with both arms in unison. When lifting dumbbells and
barbells, the skilled trainer will often act as a "spotter" or
exercise partner to ensure that the weights do not accidentally
drop on the weightlifter. Unfortunately, the costs associated with
retaining the services of skilled trainers can be quite high
resulting in many weightlifters opting to exercise alone.
[0004] In order to continue to experience gains in the muscle size
and tone, weightlifters must regularly increase the amount of
weight on the dumbbells and barbells. For serious weightlifters,
the amount of weight on a dumbbell or barbell can exceed 100 lbs
and 300 lbs, respectively. Before commencing many exercises using
free weights, such as a seated shoulder press or incline press, a
weightlifter commonly rests the dumbbells on his thighs. When ready
to perform the exercise, the weightlifter must raise or "kick" the
dumbbells to the level of his head using his arms and legs. The
action of raising the dumbbells before commencing the exercise
requires a considerable amount of strength and energy which may
cause the weightlifter to fatigue more easily during the exercise.
Following the performance of the exercise, the fatigued
weightlifter must return the dumbbell or barbells from the shoulder
press position to the floor. Often weightlifters will simply drop
the dumbbells or barbells which may cause costly damage to the gym
floor.
[0005] Moreover, given the difficulty associated with raising and
balancing dumbbells or barbells without the aid of a "spotter", the
potential for serious injury due to improper technique is very
high. This danger is equally likely among both novice and
professional weightlifters.
[0006] A variety of "self-spotting" devices intended to improve the
safety of weightlifting have been developed that incorporate stands
to support the free weights. Such "self-spotting" stands are
traditionally positioned adjacent to the shoulders of the seated
weightlifter to facilitate the grasping of the dumbbells. These
types of stands address the difficulty associated with raising the
free weights to the level of the head without the need for a
spotter. However, the static positioning of the stands adjacent to
the weightlifter interferes with the movement of the weightlifter's
arms during the actual performance of the exercise. To avoid such
interference, the weightlifter must shift his body forwardly or
rearwardly along the bench away from the stands. Following the
performance of the exercise, the weightlifter must reposition his
body adjacent to the stands in order to return the weights to
stand. This shifting action may cause the weightlifter to lose his
grip on the dumbbells or to injure his back.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for a free weight support
device for use with an exercise bench that is adapted to support
the free weights prior to and after an exercise, and to pivotally
adjust away from the weightlifter during the performance of the
exercise so as not to interfere with the performance of an
exercise.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The subject invention is directed to a free weight support
device for use with an exercise bench that is pivotally
positionable between a first and second position, and having a
base, first and second vertical members pivotally coupled to the
base and positioned on opposite sides of the bench, and a foot
member coupled to the first and second vertical members and
operable by one or more feet of weightlifter. The foot member being
proximate to a front end of the bench and pivotally coupled to the
base for pivotally adjusting the position of the first and second
vertical members between a first position and a second position.
When adjusted into the first position, the first and second
vertical members are positioned generally vertically to support the
weight of the free weights away from the weightlifter's arms. When
adjusted into the second position, the first and second vertical
members are pivotally positioned to permit the weightlifter to
retrieve the free weights.
[0009] In the first position the first and second vertical supports
are positioned generally vertically to stably support the free
weights by the weightlifter before and after weight training
exercises. In the second position the first and second vertical
supports are pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the
weightlifter's arms to permit the retrieval of the free weights
from the weight supports. Alternatively, in the second position the
first and second vertical supports are pivotally adjusted
rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms permit the retrieval of
the free weights from the weight supports. The advancement of the
first and second vertical members between the first and second
positions is in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the exercise bench. Alternatively, the advancement of the
first and second vertical members between the first and second
positions may be in a direction generally parallel to the
transverse axis of the exercise bench.
[0010] The subject invention is also directed to free weight
support device having weight supports with notches to permit the
retrieval and replacement of the free weight by the weightlifter.
The weight supports may have generally arcuate interior surface for
receiving the free weight. The interior surface may v-shaped. The
interior surface may also be shaped to conform to the profile of
the free weight. The first and second vertical supports may include
an adjustment means for positioning said weight supports at a
desired location on the first and second vertical supports.
[0011] The subject invention is also directed to a free weight
support device having a foot member having a bar which is pivotally
coupled to the first and second vertical members at a pivot axis.
The foot member may also include a stop means for releasably
securing the first and second vertical members in the first
position and second position. The stop means may be operable
between an engaged position and a released position, whereby in the
engaged position the stop means releasably secures the first and
second vertical members in the first and second positions, and
whereby in the released position the stop means permits the
movement of the first and second vertical members between the first
and second positions. The stop means may releasably secured by a
ratchet member, a pneumatic member, a hydraulic member or a spring
member.
[0012] The subject invention is also directed to an exercise
apparatus for use with free weights that is pivotally positionable
between a first and second position, and having an exercise bench,
a base, first and second vertical members pivotally coupled to the
base and positioned on opposite sides of the bench, and a foot
member coupled to the first and second vertical members and
operable by one or more feet of weightlifter. The foot member being
proximate to a front end of the bench and pivotally coupled to the
base for pivotally adjusting the position of the first and second
vertical members between a first position and a second position.
When adjusted into the first position, the first and second
vertical members are positioned generally vertically to support the
weight of the free weights away from the weightlifter's arms. When
adjusted into the second position, the first and second vertical
members are pivotally positioned to permit the weightlifter to
retrieve the free weights.
[0013] In the first position the first and second vertical supports
are positioned generally vertically to stably support the free
weights by the weightlifter before and after weight training
exercises. In the second position the first and second vertical
supports are pivotally adjusted forwardly towards the
weightlifter's arms to permit the retrieval of the free weights
from the weight supports. Alternatively, in the second position the
first and second vertical supports are pivotally adjusted
rearwardly towards the weightlifter's arms permitting the retrieval
of the free weights from the weight supports. The advancement of
the first and second vertical members between the first and second
positions is in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the exercise bench. Alternatively, the advancement of the
first and second vertical members between the first and second
positions may be in a direction generally parallel to the
transverse axis of the exercise bench.
[0014] The subject invention is also directed to an exercise
apparatus having weight supports with notches to permit the
retrieval and replacement of the free weight by the weightlifter.
The weight supports may have generally arcuate interior surface for
receiving the free weight. The interior surface may v-shaped. The
interior surface may also be shaped to conform to the profile of
the free weight. The first and second vertical supports may include
an adjustment means for positioning said weight supports at a
desired location on the first and second vertical supports.
[0015] The subject invention is also directed to an exercise
apparatus having a foot member having a bar which is pivotally
coupled to the first and second vertical members at a pivot axis.
The foot member may also include a stop means for releasably
securing the first and second vertical members in the first
position and second position. The stop means may be operable
between an engaged position and a released position, whereby in the
engaged position the stop means releasably secures the first and
second vertical members in the first and second positions, and
whereby in the released position the stop means permits the
movement of the first and second vertical members between the first
and second positions. The stop means may releasably secured by a
ratchet member, a pneumatic member, a hydraulic member or a spring
member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to
show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will
now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing a free weight
support device according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention with an exercise bench;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the free weight support
device of FIG. 1 in a first position;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view showing the free weight
support device of FIG. 1 in a second position;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the free weight support
device of FIG. 1 in a second position;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a first alternative
embodiment of the free weight support device of the present
invention in a first position;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the free weigh support
device of FIG. 5 in a first position;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the free weight
support device of FIG. 5 in a second position; and
[0024] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of a second alternative
embodiment of the free weight support device of the present
invention in a first position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] Reference is made to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 which illustrate a
free weight support device 10 made in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the invention. Free weight support device 10 is
positioned adjacent to an exercise bench 12. Free weight support
device 10 comprises a base 14, a first vertical member 16 and a
second vertical member 18 positioned on opposite sides of bench 12,
and a foot member 20 pivotally coupled to the first and second
vertical members 16 and 18, respectively. Base 14 is adapted to
stably support the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 and
the foot member 20 on the floor.
[0026] Referring to the preferred embodiment of the free weight
support device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 are positioned generally proximate to a back end
22 of exercise bench 12. The foot member 20 is positioned generally
proximate to a front end 24 of exercise bench 12. The exercise
bench 12 may include a seat portion 26 and a back portion 28 to
support the body of a weightlifter performing various exercises.
Seat and back portions 26 and 28 may be provided with padding 30 so
as to comfortably support the body of the weightlifter.
[0027] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, first and second vertical members
16 and 18 have a bottom end 32 and a top end 34. The bottom end 32
is pivotally connected to base 14 at a pivot axis 36. The top end
34 of each of the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 are
provided with a weight support 38 for receiving and supporting the
free weights before and after the performance of weightlifting
exercises by a weightlifter. The free weights may include any
suitable resistance devices for strength training and toning
typically used by weightlifters in a conventional gym, such as, for
example, dumbbells and barbells.
[0028] Each of the weight supports 38 includes a shaft 40 and a
rest 42. Shaft 40 is inserted into the top end 34 of each of the
first and second vertical members 16 and 18. An adjustment means 44
may be provided on the first and second vertical members 16 and 18
and shaft 40 to enable the weight supports 38 to be adjustably
positioned along the vertical supports 16 and 18. Adjustment means
44 may include a plurality of vertically spaced apertures 46
provided on the surface of the shaft 40 and corresponding
vertically spaced openings 48 on the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18.
[0029] The adjustment means 44 may include a detent pin 50 that is
manually inserted generally horizontally through one of the
openings 48 and into a corresponding aperture 46 to releasably fix
the position of the shaft 40 relative to the vertical members 16
and 18. The detent pin 50 may be biased to the locked position by a
spring as is well known. The other end of the detent pin 50 may
have a knob 52 for convenience of use.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, rests 42 have an interior
surface 54 which is adapted to receive and support the free weight.
Interior surface 54 may have a generally arcuate shape that
confirms to shape of the free weights (as shown in FIG. 1). It
should be understood that the interior surface 54 may be designed
to receive and support free weights of various shapes and sizes.
For example, interior surface 54 may be generally v-shaped so as to
receive free weights having a rectangular shape or profile (not
shown). Moreover, interior surface 54 may have a raised edge 56 to
safely capture the free weight and to ensure that the weightlifter
does not miss or over-shoot the rest when replacing the free
weights after a weight training exercise.
[0031] Interior surface 54 is formed with a notch 58 to permit the
retrieval and placement of the free weights on the weight supports
38. Notch 58 is sized to enable the weightlifter's hand and at
least a portion of his forearm to pass through the notch 58 so as
to facilitate access to and placement of the free weight before and
after exercising, respectively.
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, foot member 20 is adapted to be
operable by one or more feet of the weightlifter and includes a
lever 60, one or more foot rests 62, and a bar 64 pivotally coupled
to lever 60. A bottom end 66 of lever 60 is pivotally coupled to
base 14 at a pivot point 68. Foot rests 62 are attached to an upper
end 70 of said lever 60. A first end 72 of bar 64 is pivotally
coupled to a midsection 74 of the lever 60 at a lever axis 76. A
second end 78 of bar 64 is pivotally coupled to a cross brace 79
extending between the first and second vertical members 16 and 18
at member axis 77. By this design, the foot member 20 is adapted to
pivotally adjust the position of the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 between a first and second position when the
weightlifter applies pressure to foot rests 62 using his feet.
[0033] In use, in the first position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
vertical members 16 and 18 of the free weight support device 10 are
positioned generally vertically to stably support the weight of the
free weights prior to the commencement of weight training exercises
by the weightlifter. The vertical members 16 and 18 are also
positioned away from the weightlifter so as not to interfere with
his movements prior to commencing a weight training exercise. When
the weightlifter is set to commence the weight training exercise,
he applies sufficient outward force on foot rest 62 in the
direction A to displace the lever 60 and bar 64, and thereby move
the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 forwardly through
an arc B. As will be discussed below, the foot member 20 may be
adapted to provide tension against the outward force to ensure that
the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 do not topple over
and injure the weightlifter.
[0034] In the second position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the
weightlifter has adjustably positioned the vertical members 16 and
18 forwardly through arc B a sufficient distance to permit the
retrieval of the free weights from the weight supports 38 prior to
commencing the weight training exercise. Upon retrieving the free
weights from the weight supports 38, the weightlifter may then
release the foot rest 62 which causes the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 to retract rearwardly to the first position shown
in FIGS. 1 and 2. By this design, the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 pivotally retract rearwardly so as not to
obstruct or interfere with the movement of the weightlifter's arms
during the performance of the weight training exercise.
[0035] When the weightlifter has completed the weight training
exercise and/or is unable to safely place the free weights on the
floor, he can apply the outward force A on the foot rest 62 to
pivotally adjust the first and second vertical members 16 and 18
forwardly about the pivot axis 36 into the second position. The
weightlifter then lowers his hands through the notches 58 so as to
replace the free weights on the rests 42. Again, the weightlifter
may release the foot rest 62 to retract the first and second
vertical members 16 and 18 into the first position.
[0036] Reference is now made to an alternative embodiment of the
free weight support device 10 shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8.
Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first and second vertical members
16 and 18 are positioned proximate to a midpoint 78 of the exercise
bench 12. In use, in the first position, the first and second
vertical members 16 and 18 are pivotally retracted forwardly away
from the weightlifter towards the front end 24 of exercise bench
12. Once comfortably seated on the exercise bench 12 and set to
commence the weight training exercise, the weightlifter applies
sufficient outward force on foot rest 62 in the direction A. The
displacement of foot rest 62 causes the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 to pivotally adjust rearwardly through an arc C
into the second position.
[0037] In the second position shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first and
second vertical members 16 and 18 are positioned generally
vertically adjacent to the weightlifter to permit the retrieval of
the free weights. The weightlifter may then reach through the
notches 58 in the rests to grasp the free weights. Once the free
weights have been firmly grasped, the weightlifter may release the
foot rest 62, which thereby causes the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18 to retract forwardly into the first position
shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0038] Following the completion of the weight training exercise,
the weightlifter may apply the outward force A on the foot rest 62
to pivotally adjust the first and second vertical members 16 and 18
rearwardly about the pivot axis 36 into the second position. The
free weights may then be replaced on to the weight supports 38. The
foot rest 62 may then be released to pivotally retract the first
and second vertical members 16 and 18 into the first position.
[0039] Foot member 20 may include a stop means (not shown) that is
operable between an engaged position and a released position to
releasably control the movement of the first and second vertical
members 16 and 18. In the engaged position, stop means is adapted
to releasably secure the first and second vertical members 16 and
18 in the first and second positions. In the released position, the
stop means is adapted to permit the movement of the first and
second vertical members 16 and 18 between the first and second
positions. In one embodiment, stop means is a pneumatic member that
provides tension on the lever 60 so that a sufficient force in the
direction A is required to actually move the first and second
vertical members 16 and 18 between the first and second positions.
By this design, the weightlifter has greater control over the
positioning of the free weights so as to minimize the likelihood of
an accidental movement or shifting of the vertical members 16 and
18. Pneumatic member may be designed to automatically retract the
first and second vertical members 16 and 18 to the first position
after the foot member 20 is released.
[0040] In another alternative embodiment of the stop means, the
stops means is a spring member, wherein the spring member connects
to the lever 60 and either the base 14 or exercise bench 12 to
accomplish the same effect as the pneumatic member. It should be
understood that any suitable device or method for releasably
securing the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 in the
first and second positions may be used, such as, for example, a
gear or ratchet member.
[0041] In further alternative embodiments of the free weight
support device 10 of the present invention, the bottom end 32 of
the first and second vertical members 16 and 18 may be provided
with rollers (not shown) to permit rotatable forward and rearward
advancement of the vertical members 16 and 18 in a direction
generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the exercise bench
12. The rollers may be received in tracks formed base to control
the advancement of the first and second vertical members 16 and 18
between the first and second positions.
[0042] Although the present invention is illustrated as a free
weight support device 10 dedicated only to press and fly exercises,
it is to be understood that the invention may also be embodied as
part of a multi-station exercise apparatus in which a variety of
individual exercise stations may be included in addition to the
shoulder press, bench press and flies as is well known to persons
skilled in the art of weightlifting. Such exercise apparatus may
include the free weight support device 10 integrally formed with an
exercise bench or similar seating apparatus. The exercise apparatus
may include variety of seating and weight adjustments to enable the
weightlifter to comfortable position his body before commencing a
weight training exercise.
[0043] It will be noted that either the back and/or seat portion 26
and 28, respectively, of the exercise bench 12 and the exercise
apparatus may be adjusted independently and both need not be
adjusted. A detent lock may be provided to adjust only the seat,
whereby when the detent lock is released the seat portion 28 can be
adjusted while allowing the back portion 26 to remain in the same
position. The detent lock may then be returned to the locked
position to secure the seat portion 28 in the desired position. The
same operation may be performed with respect to the back portion 26
while leaving the seat portion 28 in the desired position.
[0044] While what has been shown and described herein constitutes a
preferred embodiment of the subject invention, it should be
understood that various modifications and adaptions of such
embodiment can be made without departing from the present
invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended
claims.
* * * * *