U.S. patent application number 11/601868 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-22 for body posture and physical fitness exercise device.
Invention is credited to Jan Prsala.
Application Number | 20080119338 11/601868 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39417607 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080119338 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Prsala; Jan |
May 22, 2008 |
Body posture and physical fitness exercise device
Abstract
The invention relates to an exercise device and method of use.
The exercise device comprises a body support platform, a footrest
board, a pulley system, and a pull up and push up exercise device.
In its other version, the exercise device comprises a rectangular
frame with front and rear posts and with a flexible upholstered
body support platform. In its final version, the exercise device
comprises the resting, lounge or office chair of various
constructions.The exercise device is suitable for correct
development of a human's abdominal, arm, back, neck and leg
muscles. The invention encourages isotonic and isometric
contraction of the muscles permitting their correct stretching and
strengthening. The exercise device can improve physical fitness,
body shape, posture and prevent and/or remedy neck and/or back pain
or other such conditions.
Inventors: |
Prsala; Jan; (Hubley,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JAN PRSALA
836 HACKAMORE DRIVE
VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA
V9C 4A3
omitted
|
Family ID: |
39417607 |
Appl. No.: |
11/601868 |
Filed: |
November 20, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0552 20130101;
A63B 21/4029 20151001; A63B 21/156 20130101; A63B 2208/0295
20130101; A63B 23/03575 20130101; A63B 21/0421 20130101; A63B 23/12
20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 21/0555 20130101; A63B
23/0355 20130101; A63B 21/4047 20151001; A63B 21/4031 20151001;
A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B 23/0405 20130101; A63B 21/0442
20130101; A63B 2208/0228 20130101; A63B 21/4034 20151001; A63B
21/023 20130101; A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B 21/1672 20151001; A63B
2208/0233 20130101; A63B 2208/0252 20130101; A63B 2208/0238
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/142 |
International
Class: |
A63B 26/00 20060101
A63B026/00 |
Claims
1. A posture correction exercise device for improving incorrect
shape of the spine and pelvic angle conditions including (a) a
rectangular flexible and upholstered body support platform having
front and rear supporting legs, (b) a footrest with two small
pulleys located at each side of the footrest, (c) two guiding cords
with the shock cords or other elastic material at their front end
and with the chain or other length adjusting attachment device at
the rear end of the guiding cords, (d) a pull-up U-shaped exercise
device with two stabilizing levers (feet) and blocks (stops) or
with an alternate stabilizing mechanism, (e) a push up exercise
device with the shock cords, (f) a round horizontal exercise bar
(g) a rectangular upholstered body support platform with a
footrest, elastic material, adjustable straps, and D-rings anchored
to the platform at its rear one third, (h) an upholstered back
support board and footrest mutually adjustably connected through
D-rings and buckles with the elastic material and straps, (i) a
rectangular flexible and upholstered body support platform hinged
by its rear part to the rear posts mounted on the common
rectangular frame and connected by its front part to the front
posts through the springs or other elastic material, (j) a set of
two springs or other elastic material, (k) a foot support bar
connecting the top ends of the front posts.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said rectangular body
support platform has four hooks or other similar attachment
devices, one at each corner.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said shock cords are
connected at their rear end to said guiding cords with a clamp or
similar connecting mechanism and by their front end to said hooks
located on the front of said body support platform.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the rear ends of said
guiding cords connect with a knot or through a clamp or other
similar fastening mechanism to said chains or other length
adjusting attachment devices that by their other ends attach to
said hooks on the rear end of said body support platform.
5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said guiding cords are
slipped through said pulleys permitting said footrest, to be moved
with user's feet back and forth during the exercise.
6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said body support
platform is made of hard wood, plywood, fiberglass, plastic or
other similarly flexible material; the said body support platform
must be adequately rigid in order to support a user during the
exercise without fully collapsing to the floor.
7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said U-shaped pull-up
exercise device with said horizontal exercise bar provides a user
with necessary stability during the exercise which is given by said
U-shaped pull-up exercise device at the bottom equipped with said
stabilizing levers (feet) and by said two blocks (stops) or by an
alternate stabilizing mechanism.
8. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said push up exercise
device has one to three elastic materials with hook or some other
attachment mechanism at the bottom where they attach to said
U-shaped pull up exercise device; the elastic material is by its
top ends attached to eyes for connection with said horizontal
exercise bar.
9. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said upholstered body
support platform is curved at its front part and is equipped with a
foldable stance or legs in order to maintain a slanted position
during the exercise or vertical position for easy storage, when the
legs are folded; a footrest is connected with two partially elastic
ropes to the top part of said upholstered body support
platform.
10. The exercise device or the resting rocking chair for improving
incorrect shape of the spine and pelvic angle conditions including
(a) a rectangular frame with front short and rear long suspension
means, (b) a pair of arm rests connecting said front and rear
suspension means, (c) a solid movable seat or flexible canvas seat
with its back support hinged on the top of said rear suspension
means, (d) a pair of resilient means at their rear end attached to
the bottom of said solid movable seat and at their front end
attached to the bottom part of said front suspension means, (e) a
pair of ropes or chains at their rear end attached to the front
edge of said flexible canvas seat and at their front end attached
to the top of said front suspension means, (f) a movable footrest
at each end attached to two length adjustable suspension cords or
chains which by their other ends are attached to the front of said
arm rests or to the top of said front suspension means, (g) a solid
footrest board adjustably connects to two angled support bars which
are attached by being inserted into two shafts, (h) a solid
footrest board of non-removable system of various construction
(including foldable) is attached to the top of the front suspension
means, (i) said angled support bars of said footrest board have at
their front end three grooves, openings or other fastening devices
for safe placement of said adjustable solid footrest board, (j)
said shafts are built in: a. at the top of said front suspension
means, b. in a diagonal reinforcement bar connecting said front
suspension means with said rectangular base, (k) said footrest
board can also be constructed differently as long as it provides a
user with an identical function during the exercise.
11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein pair members or bars
of the apparatus are mutually hinged on each side so as to make the
inclination of said rear suspension means adjustable and the device
with said flexible canvas seat foldable for easy storage.
12. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein said rear suspension
means are approximately at their mid distance hinged to a pair of
bars which are at their bottom connected to a supporting horizontal
bar by which said supporting horizontal bar is connected and locked
to the rear part of said rectangular base equipped with three
projecting stops or other locking devices which safely hold the
apparatus upright and control its inclination.
13. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the apparatus has said
suspended canvas seat and said movable footrest; the said arm rests
span between said front short and rear long suspension means that
are slanted backward; the front of said arm rest is hinged to the
top end of said front suspension means and the rear end of said arm
rest is locked by some precise mechanism to the mid distance of
said rear suspension means, the said precise mechanism, such as
deep indentations or grooves on the bottom of rear end of said arm
rests locked with corresponding pins or pegs located on the side of
said rear suspension means, permits upright position of the
apparatus in its three different inclinations; unlocking of said
mechanism permits folding of the apparatus; the said precise
mechanism can also be designed differently as long as it fulfills
its functions. i.e. upright position of the apparatus in three
different inclinations and its folded position.
14. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the apparatus is
constructed in the form of a fully or less covered rocking resting
or lounge chair; said fully covered lounge chair may have a said
resilient means constructed in the form of compression springs,
coils, or shock absorbers which are concealed and located between
the back of said seat and back wall of said rocking resting or
lounge chair.
15. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the apparatus is
constructed in the form of an office chair with a solid suspended
seat, movable footrest and with the wheels or coasters.
16. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the apparatus is
constructed in the form of a body posture exercise device with a
solid suspended seat and solid adjustable footrest board
system.
17. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein said movable seat is
flexible and made of the canvas or similar durable material which
is bordered on its front and rear by round bars or dowels; the rear
end of said movable seat is attached through said round bar to the
top of said rear suspension means and front end of said movable
seat is suspended through two cords, chains or other means by said
round bar on the front end of said arm rests or on the top of said
front suspension means.
18. The exercise device of claim 17, wherein said movable seat is
in its upper two thirds reinforced with some upholstered rigid
material such as plywood, fiberglass, plastic or similar material;
the bottom third of said seat is also upholstered and reinforced by
a few narrow and one or two wider pieces of plywood which are
horizontally inserted into appropriately segmented canvas.
19. The exercise device of claim 17, wherein the apparatus is
constructed in the form of an office chair with a partly solid and
partly flexible canvas seat, movable footrest and with the wheels
or coasters.
20. The method of strengthening and/or stretching user's postural
muscles such as the muscles of the legs, abdomen, buttocks, back
and neck with the assistance of various back exercise devices in
order to improve user's body posture and so to prevent or remedy
back and/or neck pain.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] "Not Applicable"
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] "Not Applicable"
REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0003] "Not Applicable"
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The invention relates to an exercise device, in particular
to an exercise device suitable for correct development of the
abdominal, arm, back, neck and leg muscles, i.e. for improvement of
body posture and so for the prevention and/or remedy of neck and/or
back pain or for other such conditions. The exercises executed
using the invention can also improve physical fitness and reduce
the user's excessive weight and esthetically improve the user's
body shape, particularly the legs.
DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,924 issued to Summers, U.S. Pat. No.
5,857,945 issued to Papp and U.S. Pat. No. 6,048,291 issued to
Fisher bare some similarity to the instant invention in using a
foot support and resilient means, however designed for different
purpose. The instant invention is based on my copyright issued in
Canada on Sep. 9, 1982 with the File No. 228294 entitled Special
exercise program for the strengthening and/or stretching of the
postural muscles in order to prevent mechanical low back disorders
or to enhence their treatment. The instant invention is further
improvement of my U.S. Pat. No. 4,735,412 and Canadian Patent No. 1
208 092. While the previous patent requires a thorough theoretical
and practical instruction before its successful use and full
concentration of a user during the exercise, the new patent is
easier and more interesting to use, since the leg action is safely
guided by the foot rest board with the pulley system and by the
guiding cords which are attached at the front and rear of the body
support platform.
[0006] In a variation of the instant invention, the legs are
stationary while the body with its support platform move.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,065,172 issued to Gawlinski, U.S. Pat. No.
6,004,246 issued to Sencil, U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,930 issued to
Yen-Fu Kuo, U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,241 B1 issued to Ellis, U.S. Pat.
No. 6,394,938 B1 issued to Tomabene, U.S. Pat. No. 6,743,158 issued
to Gianelli et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,478,721 B1 issued to Hunter and
U.S. Pat. No. 6,537,185 B1 issued to Young-Baek Hur represent
various chair like exercise devices similar to the instant
invention in which a user carries out the exercises in a sitting
position. The devices also have a back support and foot rest. The
back support is either stationary or can pivot at its bottom end.
The instant invention differs from prior art in that the whole
specifically shaped seat can swing back and forth permitted by the
axis of rotation being located at the top end of the back support.
The back and forth movement of the seat generated by the arm and/or
leg extension and counteraction of the torso is necessary for the
body posture correcting and back pain remedying exercise. The prior
art does not serve this purpose.
[0008] Various chairs also have been proposed for sitting and
resting, however, none were designed for the purpose of effective
postural exercise. (Some of those chairs may even aggravate the
condition in people suffering from back pain.) The instant
invention is a further improvement of my U.S. Pat. No. 4,678,187.
In the previous invention, the stationary torso was suspended and
supported only by the arms while the legs and feet were moving and
pushing against the resilient footrest causing its arcuate
movement. The exercise and even the resting position between the
repetitions were very demanding, energy consuming and
uncomfortable. In the new invention, the head, back and even the
buttocks are fully supported and move along with the chair back and
forth being propelled by the extending arms and/or legs with
stationary feet on the movable or stationary foot rest board. In
addition, the invention can serve the user not only for the further
improved, more interesting and comfortable body posture exercise
but also for healthy sifting and resting. It is not only a back
exerciser but also a useful and appealing piece of furniture.
[0009] In recent years, more attention has been paid to problems of
lower back pain caused by incorrect body posture. The instant
invention seeks to provide an exercise device suitable for a user
with lower back pain or other such conditions. Concurrently, the
invention is also a useful furniture item for sitting and resting.
Other members of the user's family may just be encouraged to use
the device for both its purposes.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The instant invention offers an improvement over the prior
art as more fully described hereinafter. There is provided an
exercise device able to entirely support a user by the trunk and
feet, consisting of a body support platform and footrest board
guided by two cords attached at the font and rear of the body
support platform and of the pulley system. The upholstered body
support platform is made of rigid but still adequately flexible
material such as plywood, fiberglass or plastic material, which is
supported along its font and rear end by approximately four inches
high legs.
[0011] The body support platform is equipped with two long cords;
two short shock cords or with other equivalent elastic material and
with approximately two feet long foot rest board with two
pulleys.
[0012] The shock cords originate at the front of the body support
platform, and then they attach to the guiding cords, which are
connected through two pulleys to the footrest board and end up
connected to the chains. The chains are attached through the hooks
to the rear part of the body support platform.
[0013] The instant invention permits the following exercise: The
user sits on the front edge of the body support platform and lies
back down. Then reaches with the hands backwards, grips the
footrest board and slides it forward on the cords (using the
pulleys) above the body. Then, the user raises the legs flexed at
the hips, knees and ankles and places the feet on the footrest
board. After lowering the arms and placing them along the body, the
user is in the initial position to start the exercise.
[0014] The exercise starts with a slow partial leg extension along
with intensive pressure of the feet against the footrest board and
continues for four seconds further extending legs backward (towards
the head). Then, this optimal back position is maintained a few
seconds before the relaxed legs are slowly flexed and brought
forward again to the initial position. After a short rest, this
exercise is repeated.
[0015] The leg extension, simultaneously as a reaction, forces the
rest of the body to resist the leg action. Therefore, also the
neck, upper back, lower back, abdomen and buttocks are exposed to a
beneficial postural exercise, in which all involved muscles are
being strengthened, and the neck and lower back muscles, in
addition, suitably stretched or lengthened. The nature of the
exercise (raising legs against a resistance) resembles the exercise
carried out on the device called the Ab revolutionizer designed
exclusively for development of abdominal muscles, for weight
reduction and improved esthetic appearance of the body. The instant
invention, in addition, can develop the user's physical fitness,
arms, legs, and so give the limbs an esthetically appealing shape
as well. During the exercise, the partly flexible body support
platform further flexes or collapses under the increased pressure
of the body and the shock cords partially extend, give, thus
providing the body action with a necessary larger range of motion.
The nature of this exercise (body position and angle of the force
application) maintains or even increases the flexion of the pelvis
and lower back, which even further stretches the lower back
muscles.
[0016] In the instant invention, the whole exercise including the
leg position and range of the whole body motion between the
initial, forward and the end, backward position is controlled and
guided by the guiding cords and their interaction between the
footrest board and its pulleys.
[0017] The instant invention can also be equipped with two exercise
devices designed for the development of the arm muscles,
particularly the biceps, wrist flexors and triceps.
[0018] The device exercising the biceps and wrist flexors by the
arm pull-up exercise has a U-shaped construction (two vertical arm
length's rods connected at their bottom with a round rod
functioning as an axel). The round rod is attached by two clamps
underneath the rear part of the body support platform at the level,
where a participating user has his shoulders. The rods are equipped
at their top ends with an eye, through which an exercising
horizontal bar is slipped and used for pull-ups. When the arm
device is not used, it is folded down forward into a horizontal
position, after the exercising bar has been removed.
[0019] The device exercising the triceps consists of one to three
strands of elastic material (shock cords, rubber bands, springs,
etc). This elastic material is at its bottom connected to a hook,
through which it is attached to an eye located on the previous
device, exactly, where the axel connects at a right angle with
other rods. The elastic material is at its top end connected to an
eye for the exercising bar. During a bench press--like exercise for
triceps, the same exercising bar, as in previous case, is used and
slipped through the corresponding eyes. After the exercise, the bar
is removed and stored along the main device. The elastic material
is also alongside the main device, when not used.
[0020] In a variation of the instant invention, the device also
consists of the flexible back support platform suspended between
the front and rear posts mounted on the common rectangular frame.
Over the taller front posts spans a foot support bar used for leg
action of the main exercise and also for pull-up exercise. The
platform is also equipped with elastic material and horizontal bar
for the push-up exercise. The rear end of the platform is hinged to
the rear vertical posts. The front end of the platform, equipped
with two springs or some other elastic material, is attached to the
front vertical posts. The body support platform can be slanted
(inclined) forward at varied angles or stay horizontal. This
instant invention can also have the arm push up and pull up
exercise devices.
[0021] In a variation of the instant invention, the device consists
of the rigig upholstered platform to which the footrest is
removably attached at the level of person's shoulders by the
adjustable straps or ropes. Even this device can be used for the
arm push up and pull up exercises.
[0022] In a variation of the instant invention, the device is
designed in a form of chair, lounge chair, deck chair and office
chair. These devices can be used for the body posture exercise as
well as for resting and sitting.
[0023] There is provided in a few embodiments an exercise
chair-like device capable of entirely supporting a person by head,
trunk, buttocks by the movable specifically shaped upholstered seat
with its back support. The feet are located on the solid removable
or not removable (in the apparatus serving for the exercises alone)
footrest that is attached to the top of two front posts erected on
the rectangular base, frame. The front of the seat is connected to
two resilient means that are by their other ends attached to the
front posts. The resilient means keep the seat in the forward
position and offer a strong resistance to moving the chair backward
by the arm and/or leg extension. In the following relaxing phase of
the exercise, the resilient means bring the chair with the user
forward. The user sits on the chair, places the arms on the arm
rests and raises the flexed legs and the feet on the footrest. The
user initiates the first phase of the exercise by partially
extending the arm and/or legs, by pressing the head, the whole
trunk and the lower back into the chair. The muscles of the legs,
arms, shoulders, neck, upper back, lower back, abdomen, pelvis and
buttocks are just engaged and the movable seat of the chair is
brought along with the person's body backward. The user may pause a
few seconds in this rear position and then let the chair swing
freely forward to rest a while before the next repetition of the
exercise. The user may also use a more dynamic exercise in which he
swings back and forth faster without any rest in either front or
rear position. The bottom of the seat is specifically rounded in
order to guarantee the correctly flexed lower back and pelvis
position during both functions of the device, exercising and
sitting or resting.
[0024] In a variation of the instant invention, the device is
designed in the form of a semi-inclined upholstered exercise chair.
The footrest is connected to the ropes with or without an elastic
material. The other ends of the ropes are attached to the top back
support of the chair.
[0025] In the last variation of the instant invention, the device
consists of a footrest, elastic material, straps with the buckles
and of an upholstered back support board. The device can also be
produced so that both the footrest and the back support board are
cut into two halves and joined by hinges. Such a device can be
folded into a small package and easily carried.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus consisting of
a flexible back support platform, footrest, pulleys, resilient
material and cords.
[0027] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of that portion of
FIG. 1 marked Detail A showing the placement of the pulleys on the
footrest board and the placement and function of the guiding cord
on the pulley.
[0028] FIG. 3 is an enlarged side view of FIG. 1 marked Detail B
showing the attachment of the guiding cord through a chain and hook
to the rear end of the body support platform.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user in
the initial resting position.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
starting the exercise with a partial hip and knee extension.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
ending the first part of the exercise with the legs still more
extended and pointing backwards, before starting the final part of
the exercise, in which a user somewhat relaxes the body and moves
the legs with the footrest board to the initial body resting
position.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus equipped with
two additional devices for arm pull-up and push-up exercises.
[0033] FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of FIG. 7 marked
Detail C showing the pull-up and push-up devices in their resting
horizontal positions.
[0034] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of FIG. 7 marked
Detail C showing the pull-up device in a vertical position.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
and push-up device in an initial push-up position.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
and push-up device in a final push-up position.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
and pull-up device in an initial pull-up position.
[0038] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the apparatus with a user
and pull-up device in a final pull-up position.
[0039] FIG. 14 is an enlarged side view of the pull-up device with
its alternate folding and erecting mechanism.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the variation of the device
consisting of a flexible platform suspended in a four legged frame
with a person in an initial exercise position.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of this device with a person
in final exercise position.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the device with a person in
a final exercise position using a push-up device.
[0043] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the device with a person in
a final position of a pull-up exercise.
[0044] FIG. 19 A is a perspective view of the variation of the
apparatus consisting of a rigid upholstered platform, arm push up
device and footrest with the elastic material and adjustable
straps.
[0045] FIG. 19 B is an enlarged side view of that portion of FIG.
19 A marked Detail D showing the attachment of the strap from the
footrest and of the elastic cord from the arm pull up device
through the hooks and eye screwbolt to the platform.
[0046] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the same device with a
person in the initial phase of the main exercise.
[0047] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the device with a person
executing the arm push up.
[0048] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the device with a person
executing the arm pull up.
[0049] FIG. 23 is a side view of a variation of the apparatus
consisting of a chair-like frame, solid back support and movable
footrest with a person in his initial exercise position.
[0050] FIG. 24 is a side view of the same device with a person in
his final exercise position.
[0051] FIG. 25 is a side view of the device with a solid adjustable
foot support mechanism that can be used either for the exercise or
for resting of the legs.
[0052] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the part of FIG. 25 marked
Detail E showing the angled arm and shaft of the foot support
mechanism.
[0053] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the upholstered
footrest.
[0054] FIG. 28 is a side view of the device in a form of a deck
chair consisting of a foldable frame, flexible canvas seat and
movable footrest. A person is in his initial position.
[0055] FIG. 29 is a side view of the device with a person in his
final exercise position.
[0056] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the same device.
[0057] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the folded device.
[0058] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the apparatus in the form
of a partially covered lounge chair.
[0059] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the device in the form of a
fully covered lounge chair.
[0060] FIG. 34 is a side view of the apparatus in the form of a
chair with a flexible canvas seat and movable footrest, and with a
person in his final exercise position.
[0061] FIG. 35 A is a side view of the device in the form of a
foldable chair with an adjustable inclination and with a person in
his initial exercise position.
[0062] FIG. 35 B is a perspective view of the same chair with
flexible and the length adjustable arm supports.
[0063] FIG. 36 is the front view of that part of FIG. 35 A marked
Detail G showing the attachment of the solid arm support to the
rear leg.
[0064] FIG. 37 is the side view of that part of FIG. 35 A marked
Detail G showing the attachment of the solid arm support to the
rear leg.
[0065] FIG. 38 is a side view of the office chair with a solid back
support with a working person.
[0066] FIG. 39 is a side view of the same chair with a person in
his final position of the exercise.
[0067] FIG. 40 is a side view of the same chair with a solid back
and head support with a person in his final position of the
exercise.
[0068] FIG. 41 is a side view of an office chair with flexible
canvas or other material back support with a person in his final
position of the exercise.
[0069] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the variation of the
exercise device consisting an upholstered semi-inclined foldable
chair, cords, footrest, and with a person in his both exercise
positions.
[0070] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the same device in its
folded easy to store position.
[0071] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the variation of the back
exercise device with a person in his both exercise positions. This
device is portable.
[0072] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a folded portable exercise
device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0073] As shown in the drawing FIG. 1, the apparatus consists of
eight component parts being an upholstered elastic rectangular body
support platform 1 with pair of legs 2 and with four metal hooks 3,
a footrest board 4 with two small pulleys 5, and two long guiding
cords 6 each with a short chain 7 on their rear end and with the
short shock cord 8 at their front end.
[0074] The legs 2 are mounted under the body support platform, each
along one end.
[0075] The body support platform I is made from a relatively rigid
but still adequately flexible material, such as plywood, fiberglass
or plastic material and is upholstered.
[0076] The body support platform 1 is equipped with two adequately
long guiding cords 6, two short shock cords 8 and footrest board 4
with two small pulleys 5. The shock cords 8 are hooked up to the
front of the body support platform 1, then, they attach to the
guiding cords 6, which are connected through small pulleys 5 to the
foot rest board 4 and end up attached to the chains 7 and the
chains 7 are hooked up or otherwise fastened to the rear of the
body support platform 1.
[0077] The body support platform 1 is equipped with four attachment
hooks 3, one at each corner.
[0078] The footrest board 4 is made of either hard wood, plywood,
fiberglass, plastic or similar material. Two small pulleys 5 are
attached to the footrest board 4, one at each end.
[0079] The guiding cords 6 are attached at their front end by some
clamp or fastening mechanism to the shock cords 8. The shock cords
8 are attached by some clamp or hook mechanism to the hooks 3
located at the front of the body support platform 1. The guiding
cords 6 are slipped through the pulleys 5 and then at their rear
end are attached to the chains 7.
[0080] The chains 7 serve for the adjusting the length of the
guiding cords 6 in order to accommodate persons of different sizes.
The chains 7 are hooked up to the hooks 3 at the rear of the body
support platform 1.
[0081] The instant invention permits the execution of the following
exercise: The user sits down on the front edge of the body support
platform 1 and then lies back down. Then, the user reaches with the
hands backward and grips the footrest board 4, raises and slides it
forward on the guiding cords 6 above the body. Then, the user
raises the legs flexed at the hips, knees and ankles and places the
feet on the footrest board 4 in order to keep the legs up
effortlessly supported only by the footrest board 4. By placing the
straight arms alongside the body, the user finds himself in an
initial position ready to start the exercise. FIG. 4
[0082] The exercise consists of partial leg extension, followed by
the slow backward (towards the head) movement of still further
extending of the legs. The feet transmit the leg action in the form
of increased pressure to the footrest board 4, which due to their
pulleys 5 slides on the guiding cords 6 along with the feet
backwards to their ending, terminal position. This leg pressure,
simultaneously as a reaction, forces the rest of the body to resist
the leg action. Thus the instant invention permits a user to
repeatedly execute an exercise by which all the postural muscles of
the feet, calf, thigh muscles, buttocks, as well as abdominal,
lower back, upper back and neck muscles are being usefully
strengthened. The neck, lower back, calf and ankle muscles are
being, in addition, simultaneously stretched or lengthened. Thus
the whole body posture, i.e. the shape of spinal curves, position
of the head and pelvis improve permitting prevention and permanent
elimination of pain in the neck, back and other similar conditions.
After the legs were fully raised and extended backward FIGS. 5, 6,
they, after a short pause, relax, flex and move slowly again
forward to their initial position FIG. 4, where they rest a while
before the next repetition of the exercise.
[0083] During the exercise, the flexible upholstered body support
platform 1 flexes, the shock cords 8 partially extend in order to
provide the body with a larger range of motion. The nature of this
exercise (body position and angle of the force application)
maintains or even increases the flexion of the pelvis and lower
back in the first phase of the exercise.
[0084] In the instant invention, the whole exercise including the
range of motion of the legs between the forward, initial and the
backward, end or terminal position is controlled and guided by the
guiding cords 6 along with the footrest board 4.
[0085] The instant invention can also serve for an additional
function by which the user can exercise his biceps, triceps, and
wrist flexors. For this purpose, the instant invention is equipped
with two additional devices FIG.7; one serving for arm pull-ups 12
and the other for arm push ups or bench press--like exercise 10.
Both devices use an identical twenty six inches long round
horizontal exercise bar 14 slipped through corresponding eyes
fitted on the top of both vertical bars of the pull up device 12 or
on the top of elastic material of the push up device 11 during the
particular exercise.
[0086] The device exercising the biceps and wrist flexors by the
arm pull up exercise has a U-shaped construction consisting of two
vertical metal arm length's rods 12 connected at their bottom with
a round rod functioning as an axel and clamped under the platform
at the user's shoulder area. The vertical part of the rod 12 is at
the bottom (where R bends into an axel) prolonged by a short welded
segment that is bent backward a few inches further at a right angle
in order to create an approximately four and a half inches long
lever directed along the platform by which the erected rods are
given a necessary stability backward or in the direction towards
the rear end of the main device.
[0087] The necessary stability in forward direction is provided by
a simple mechanism in the form of two blocks or stops 13 placed
under and across the platform above the short stabilizing levers.
These stops 13 loosely fit either into corresponding grooves or
hook up clamps through which they can slide outward slightly past
the edges of the platform. They have to have a correct height to
tightly fill the space between the bottom of the platform and the
foot when slid outward FIG. 9. Thus the pull up device is blocked
against forward movement during the exercise. When not used, the
stops 13 are slid inward past the edge of the platform permiting
the device to fold or collapse forward alongside the platform after
the exercising bar 14 has been removed.
[0088] The pull up exercise device 12 can also be produced with
alternative folding, erecting and stabilization mechanisms FIGS. 14
#15, 16 during the exercise.
[0089] In order to accommodate users of different sizes, the
vertical rods 12 should be adjustable for different length of
user's arms or should be equipped with two or three eyes aligned
vertically on the vertical rods 12.
[0090] The device exercising the triceps consists of one to three
strands of suitable elastic material (shock cords, rubber bands,
springs, etc) which is at its bottom connected to a hook, through
which they are attached to an eye located on the pull-up device,
exactly, where the horizontal axel connects at the right angle with
vertical rods. The elastic material (its one to three strands
depending on the strength of the user) is at its top end attached
to a hook on an eye of slightly longer diameter than on the
exercising bar. During the bench press--like exercise for triceps,
the horizontal exercising bar is slipped through the corresponding
eyes on the elastic material and removed and stored along the main
device when not used. The elastic material is also stored alongside
the main device, when not used.
[0091] As shown in the drawings FIGS. 15 -18, the variation of the
instant invention consists of five main component parts being a
sturdy rectangular base (frame) 17, an upright suspension means
consisting of four vertical posts 18, 19, a foot support or the
pull-up exercise device 20, a flexible upholstred body support
platform 21 and two springs or other elastic materal 22.
[0092] The posts 18, 19 are mounted on the common rectangular
frame, one at each corner.
[0093] The body support platform 21 is suspended between the rear
posts 18 through hinges and to the middle-section of the front
posts 19 through springs 22. When hinged to the top of the rear
posts, the platform 21 is slanted (inclined) forward. When hinged
to the middle section of the rear posts, the platform 21 is used in
a horizontal position. The body support platform 21 is attached
from the bottom to a rectangular plank at the front end 21a, middle
part (at the shoulder area) 21b and at the rear end of the platform
21, 21c. The planks permit the platform 21 to be attached on the
front through the eye-screws to the springs 22, in the middle to
the push-up device 9, 10, 11 and at the rear through the hinges to
the vertical posts 18.
[0094] The front (taller) posts 19 are connected on the top by foot
support bar 20.
[0095] The one to three strands of the elastic material of the
push-up device, identical with the one in the original device 9,
10, 11, is hooked to a body support platform 21 at the level of
person's shoulders 21b.
[0096] The user also uses the variation of the instant invention
for the exercise, which improves the body posture. The user assumes
the initial body position with straight arms along the torso as
demonstrated on FIG. 15. Then, the user generates force with the
legs and transmits it through the feet to the foot support bar 20
and through the upper body to the body support platform 21 as
demonstrated on FIG. 16. As a reaction to the leg action, the user
simultaneously presses the head and back against the body support
platform 21 by which many muscles of the neck and torso are
activated. Simultaneously, the body support platform 21 partially
rotates downward permitted by stretched springs 22 and further
flexes as demonstrated on FIG. 16. Then, the user holds this body
position over a few seconds and then reduces pressure on the foot
support bar 20, slowly flexes legs and shortly pauses in the
initial position as demonstrated on the FIG. 15. The body support
platform resumes its initial position, when body pressure on the
platform 21 reduces.
[0097] The variation of the instant invention also permits the user
to exercise the arms. As shown on the FIG. 17, the user exercises
his triceps with the push-up device 9, 10, 11, 14 and his biceps
and wrist flexors with the pull-up device 20, as demonstrated on
FIG. 18.
[0098] This variation of the instant invention permits a user to
repeatedly execute an exercise by which many bodily muscles are
strengthened and/or lengthened as in the original version of the
instant invention. Thus the whole body posture, i.e. the shape of
spinal curves, position of the head and pelvis also improve
permitting prevention and permanent elimination of pain in the
neck, back and other similar conditions.
[0099] As shown in the drawing FIG. 19 A, another variation of the
instant invention consists of six component parts being an
upholstered rigid rectangular body support platform 23, footrest
24, elastic cords 25, adjustable straps 26 with the D-rings 27a,
27b, elastic cords 10 equipped with eye hook 11 and hook 28a and
horizontal bar 14. The hook 28b connects the D-ring 27b with the
eye screw 29 and the hook 28a connects the elastic cord 10 with the
eye screw 29. FIG. 19 B. A person can perform body posture exercise
as depicted on FIG. 20. In the initial exercise position, the
straps 26 are located in the back of the knees (posteriorly to the
knee joints). A person partially extends the knees and hips while
slowly raising the feet with a footrest 24 through range of motion
untill straps 26 end up at the level of the knee caps (anteriorly
to the knee joints).
[0100] This instant invention can also serve a person for the arm
push up and pull up exercises. FIG. 21 demonstrates the final arm
push up position. FIG. 22 demonstrates the final arm pull up
position. In the initial position of this exercise, the elbows are
fully extended and slightly more extended legs are correspondingly
located farther forward. In this exercise, the legs with the
footrest 24 and elastic cords 25 provide the arms with a necessary
resistance.
[0101] As shown in the drawings FIG. 23, FIG. 24, another variation
of the instant invention consists of eight component parts being a
sturdy rectangular base (frame) 30, an upright suspension means
consisting of four rigid vertical posts (legs) 31, 32, two arm
rests 33, movable seat with its back support 34, two resilient
means 35, movable footrest 36 and two suspension cords 37.
[0102] The posts 31, 32 are mounted on the common rectangular frame
30, one at each corner. The movable part of the device or seat 34
is of a solid construction and specifically rounded at the bottom
and is connected to the top of the rear upright posts 31. The
resilient means 35 span between the front vertical posts 32 and
bottom of the seat 34. They hold the seat 34 in a normal position,
resist its arcuate movement backward and bring the seat 34 back
forward after its backward swing resulting from the exercise. The
footrest 36 is attached on each edge through a cord 37 to the top
of the front upright posts 32. During the exercise, the footrest 36
is raised as high as possible where it provides support and
resistance to the user's feet. As a variation of the exercise, the
footrest 36 is repeatedly moved with user's legs up and down.
[0103] A user with the forearms and hands on the arm rest 36 sits
in the seat 34, places the feet on the footrest 36 and initiates
the exercise by partially extending the legs and elevating the
footrest 36. FIG. 23, FIG. 24 A user can use other variations of
the exercise. With the hands, the user can firmly grip the arm
rests and assist leg action with arm extension or use the arm
extension alone.
[0104] The leg and/or arm action as a reaction triggers the muscle
contraction in a user's neck, upper back, lower back, abdomen and
buttocks and moves the seat 34 with a user's body backward. After a
short pause, a user relaxes and lets the seat 34 and body swing
back forward. The resilient means 35 and the user's weight return
the seat 34 to its initial position.
[0105] Another variation of the instant invention demonstrated on
FIG. 25 has a different construction of the non-movable footrest
FIG. 26 Detail E or 37a, 40 and FIG. 27 Detail F or 36a. The foot
support system FIG. 26, FIG. 27 F consists of an upholstered
adjustable footrest 36a, of two solid support bars 37a and two
shafts 38 that are created by the top segments of the front upright
posts 32 and the top segments of diagonal reinforcement bar 39. The
upholstered footrest 36a is located in one of three openings or
grooves 40 of the support bars 37a, in which it can twist. Three
different locations of the board 36a in one of three grooves 40 on
the support bars 37a can accommodate users of different sizes. The
footrest 36a and its support bars 37a can be taken out of the
shafts 38 formed by the top ends of the front upright posts 32 and
be inserted in the other shafts FIGS. 26 #38, 39 that are formed by
the top ends of the diagonal reinforcement bars 39 located between
the front upright posts 32 and rectangular base 30. In this
position, the footrest 36a is twisted by 90 degrees and serves the
user for resting the legs. This embodiment of the instant invention
FIG. 25 can also be produced soly in a form of an exercise device
and not as a lounge chair. In this version, the footrest 36a would
not be used in an alternate position for resting the legs.
[0106] Another variation of the instant invention demonstrated on
FIG. 28, FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 is a deck rocking chair with a user in
the front initial position FIG. 28 and in the back final position
FIG. 29 with the legs extended, pelvis and lower back flexed and
upper back and head pressing against the back support part of the
seat 34a. This instant invention has a different construction. It
has a longer rectangular frame 30a to accommodate three stops 43 at
its rear which permit three differently inclined positions of the
rear vertical posts 31a. All members of the apparatus are mutually
hinged as demonstrated on FIG. 28, FIG. 30. This allows a user to
sit or exercise at different body and rear vertical posts's 31a
inclinations. It also permits folding the apparatus so that all
members align horizontally with the rectangular base 30a FIG. 31.
This apparatus is also equipped with a movable footrest 36. The
seat 34a is made of flexible canvas or other similar durable
material. In its upper back support part, the canvas of the seat
34a is upholstered and reinforced by plywood, fiberglass, plastic
or similar material in order to maintain the user's upper back
straight. The bottom third of the seat 34a is also upholstered and
reinforced by a few narrow and one or two wider pieces of plywood
which are horizontally inserted into appropriately segmented
canvas. The canvas material spans between two round bars 45 around
which the canvas is wrapped and fastened. The rear round bar 45 is
fastened to the top of the rear upright vertical posts 31a and the
front round bar 45 is suspended through two cords, chains or other
means 44 to the tops of the front upright posts 32a.
[0107] The apparatus does not have any resilient means. The user's
leg extension against the movable footrest 36 and posterior
displacement and reshaping of the seat 34a by the body provide a
user with sufficient resiliency necessary for the exercise.
[0108] Each different inclination of the rear upright posts 31a
gives a user a different body position and slightly different
exercise. The more slanted the posts 31a, the more leg and arm
extension are required. The less inclined the posts 31a, the more
suitable for users of smaller size, whereas the more inclined posts
31a can accommodate taller users. A user can do an adequate back
exercise with the feet on the footrest 36 in its initial position
FIG. 28 or user can do an even more effective exercise with the
legs extended and the footrest 36 in its elevated position FIG. 29.
A user also can do the exercise while moving the footrest 36 and
legs up and down by extending and flexing the legs.
[0109] The user can use a variety of the back exercise in which a
user uses the head and back, and either arms or legs alone or a
combination of both. This variety makes the exercise more versatile
and interesting.
[0110] Two other embodiments of the apparatus are constructed as a
rocking resting or lounge chair as shown on FIG. 32, FIG. 33. They
also have a solid movable seat 34b and can be equipped with either
movable 36 or solid removable footrest 36a, 37a, as the previous
embodiments of the apparatus. The footrest 36a and foot supportive
system or mechanism 37a, 38, 39 can have the same construction as
shown on FIG. 26, FIG. 27 or similar construction as long as it
provides a user with the identical function.
[0111] In the apparatus with a solid footrest 36a, 37a, the shafts
38 for the support bars 37a are build in the front upright posts
32b. When the footrest 36a and 37a are removed, the openings of the
shafts 38 for the insertions of the support bars 37a are concealed
with a plug 46 or some cover. In the apparatus with a movable
footrest 36, the suspension cords 37 are attached in the front of
the arm rests 33a and when removed, the opening for the cord
attachment is concealed with a plug 46a or some cover.
[0112] In the apparatus FIG. 32, the resilient means 35 originate
on the front upright posts 32b but are concealed within the space
under the arm rests 33a and attach to the bottom of the seat
34b.
[0113] In the apparatus FIG. 33, the resilient means 35 can
function similarly as in the apparatus FIG. 26 or can consist of
strong compression springs, coils or shock absorbers located
between the rear upright posts 31b or back wall of the chair and
movable seat 34b. The resilient means are fully concealed.
[0114] Two other embodiments of the apparatus are constructed as a
rocking resting or lounge chair as shown on FIG. 34, FIG. 35A, FIG.
35B. The chair depicted by FIG. 34 has the same suspended canvas
seat construction 34a and movable footrest as the deck rocking
chair FIG. 28. The chair demonstrated by FIG. 35A, FIG. 35B is
foldable and can have three slightly different inclinations. It
also has the same suspended canvas seat 34a and movable footrest
36, 37 as the deck rocking chair FIG. 28. The chair is constructed
from two rear long diagonal posts (legs) 47 which are crossed and
connected by pins or screws to two shorter front diagonal posts 48
in order to permit the chair to be folded and variably inclined. In
order to maintain the correct spatial parallel antero-posterior
alignment of the front inside posts 48 with the arm rests 49, the
width of the top end of the front posts 48 must be appropriately
reduced. The front ends of the arm rests 49 are attached by pins or
screws to the top adjusted ends of the front diagonal posts 48. The
rear ends of the arm rests 49 have on their bottom three precisely
made indentations FIG. 36, 37 Detail G 50 that can lock in the
corresponding pins or pegs 51 located centrally at the sides of the
rear diagonal posts 47. Each indentation offers a different
inclination of the chair. Unlocking of the arm rests 49 from the
rear diagonal posts 47 permits folding the chair for easy
storage.
[0115] Each pair of diagonal posts 47, 48 is at the bottom mutually
connected by a bar. The rear diagonal posts 47 are also connected
with a bar at the top and in their bottom half with either one
diagonal bar or with two crossed diagonal bars in order to improve
the lateral stability of the chair.
[0116] The instant invention FIG. 35B has a simpler inclination and
folding mechanism than in FIG. 35A The arm rests 49 are produced
from a flexible material such as the canvas or leather belts or
straps and are attached to the pins on the rear diagonal posts 47
after passing and bending over the rollers or pulleys attached to
the front side of the rear diagonal posts 47.
[0117] Two other embodiments of the apparatus are constructed as a
rocking office chair FIG. 38, FIG. 39, FIG. 40, FIG. 41. They are
adaptations of the rocking lounge chairs FIG. 24 and FIG. 34. They
have, approximately, by one third shorter frame and their solid or
canvas seats 34, 34a are situated vertically and, approximately by
12 inches higher so that a person can sit with thighs parallel to
the floor. The embodiment with the canvas seat FIG. 41 is at the
bottom end upholstered and reinforced by one wider piece of plywood
or similar material in order to provide a person with more comfort
while sitting and exercising. The chairs are provided with small
wheels or coasters 54. The devices FIG. 38, FIG. 39 do not have the
head support while the devices FIG. 40, FIG. 41 have the head
support.
[0118] One embodiment of the apparatus is constructed as a body
posture exercise device with a solid suspended seat and solid
non-removable adjustable foot rest system. This embodiment is
identical with FIG. 25, except that the footrest system can have a
different construction and is not removable.
[0119] As shown in the drawing FIG. 42, one variation of the
instant invention consists of three main component parts being an
upholstered semi-inclined exercise chair with its seat, head and
back support 55, 56, its foldable supportive frame 57, 58, 59 and a
footrest with ropes 60, 61. The ropes 61 are attached to the top
ends of the back support of the chair through hooks and eye bolts
62. The other version of the device with two inserted segments of
an elastic material between the footrest and the ropes can give a
person a greater give and range of leg motion during the exercise.
A person sits with his seat close to the edge of the chair, raises
flexed legs and places the footrest on the feet as demonstrated in
the picture. Then, he begins the exercise by partially extending
his knees and pressing with his feet against the footrest and with
his head, and the whole back against the chair. Simultaneously, he
slowly raises his legs up following the arc given by the length of
the ropes and stops this movement in the final position (as shown
in the picture). The intensity of the exercise is 70-80% of
person's maximum effort. After a short pause, he relaxes and brings
his legs slowly to their initial position. FIG. 43 demonstrates the
folded device ready for its easy storage.
[0120] As shown in the drawing FIG. 44, the portable variation of
the instant invention consists of six parts being an upholstered
back support board 63, straps 64, buckles 65, D-rings 66, elastic
material 67 and footrest 68. The back support board 63 and the
footrest 68 are produced either from one or two pieces of wood,
plywood or other similar solid material. The two pieces of both,
the back support and footrest are connected by the hinges that keep
them straight during the exercise and permit them to be folded
while not used. The exercise is carried out on a firm matress (bed)
or foam. The person lies down on the back support board and raises
his flexed legs up and places the footrest on the feet as
demonstated on FIG. 44. After placing the hands behind the head, he
begins to press with his feet on the footrest and slowly raises the
extending legs a few inches to the top position as shown in the
picture. He uses intensity 70-80% of his maximum effort. The head,
torso, and pelvis also get involved in the exercise as a reaction
to the action of the legs. After a short pause, the person relaxes
and slowly lowers his legs to their initial position. FIG. 45
demostrates a folded device.
* * * * *