U.S. patent application number 12/582169 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-09 for exercise apparatus and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to FHK ENTERPRISE, LLC. Invention is credited to Todd Michael Jutte.
Application Number | 20100227743 12/582169 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42678765 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100227743 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jutte; Todd Michael |
September 9, 2010 |
Exercise Apparatus and Method
Abstract
An exercise apparatus is designed specifically to provide a
cross training apparatus for mixed martial arts training. The
exercise apparatus combines separate training methodologies and
apparatuses that are desirable for mixed martial arts training,
then arranges each of those apparatuses into a desired spatial
orientation at separate stations. Stations include a close combat
station, two stations that are directed upper body strength
training, and a core training station. Users of the apparatus go
through an exercise routine at each station, then move immediately
to the next station and go through a routine for that station. The
exercise routines may be timed.
Inventors: |
Jutte; Todd Michael;
(Sisters, OR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HANCOCK HUGHEY LLP
P.O. BOX 1208
SISTERS
OR
97759
US
|
Assignee: |
FHK ENTERPRISE, LLC
Sisters
OR
|
Family ID: |
42678765 |
Appl. No.: |
12/582169 |
Filed: |
October 20, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12397414 |
Mar 4, 2009 |
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12582169 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/87 ;
482/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/1227 20130101;
A63B 23/1218 20130101; A63B 2225/093 20130101; A63B 2225/10
20130101; A63B 69/201 20130101; A63B 23/0211 20130101; A63B 69/004
20130101; A63B 21/16 20130101; A63B 69/203 20130101; A63B 21/4017
20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/87 ;
482/142 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/34 20060101
A63B069/34; A63B 26/00 20060101 A63B026/00 |
Claims
1. Exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame structure for supporting
and arranging plural exercise stations in proximity to one another
so that a group of trainees may simultaneously perform exercise
routines at said plural exercise stations; wherein at least one of
said plural exercise stations comprises a first exercise station in
which a trainee performs a first exercise routine for exercising
the trainee's arms, said first exercise station defined by first
and second hand holds supported by said frame structure and movable
from a first position in which the trainee's feet are always above
the ground during the first exercise routine and a second position
in which the trainee's feet are in contact with the ground during
at least a portion of the first exercise routine performed at said
first exercise station.
2. The exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first
and second hand holds are vertically adjustable relative to said
frame structure.
3. The exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said first
and second hand holds are independently horizontally adjustable
relative to one another.
4. The exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the first
exercise routine performed at said first exercise station is a
dip.
5. The exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the first
exercise routine performed at said first exercise station is a pull
up.
6. The exercise apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a
second exercise station in which a trainee performs a second
exercise routine for the exercising the trainee's arms, said second
exercise station defined by first and second hand holds supported
by said frame structure and movable from a first position in which
the trainee's feet are always above the ground during said second
exercise routine and a second position in which the trainee's feet
are in contact with the ground during at least a portion of the
second exercise routine performed at said second exercise
station.
7. The exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the first
exercise routine is a dip and the second exercise routine is a pull
up.
8. The exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the first
and second hand holds are movable to a second position in which the
trainee's feet are in contact with the ground during the entire
first exercise routine performed at said first exercise
station.
9. The exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the first
and second hand holds of the second exercise station are movable to
a second position in which the trainee's feet are in contact with
the ground during the entire second exercise routine performed at
said second exercise station.
10. The exercise apparatus according to claim 1 including a timer
having a display visible to all trainees in the group for timing
the duration of exercise routines.
11. The exercise apparatus according to claim 1 including a second
exercise station in which a trainee performs a second exercise
routine, said second exercise station defined by a heavy bag having
an attachment member attached to an upper edge of said heavy bag,
the attachment member defined by a circular base member and at
least one arm attached to the circular member and extending away
therefrom, said arm configured for removable attachment to an
overhead attachment point on said frame member.
12. Exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame for supporting plural
exercise stations in proximity to one another so that plural
trainees may simultaneously perform exercise routines at said
plural exercise stations; at least one of said plural exercise
stations comprising a first exercise station in which a trainee
performs a first exercise routine for exercising the trainee's
arms, said first exercise station defined by first and second hand
holds that are movable from a first position in which the trainee's
feet are always above the ground during the first exercise routine
and a second position in which the trainee's feet are in contact
with the ground during at least a portion of the first exercise
routine, and at least one of said plural exercise stations
comprising a second exercise station in which a trainee performs a
second exercise routine and wherein said second exercise station is
defined by a heavy bag having an attachment member for removably
attaching the heavy bag to the frame.
13. The exercise apparatus according to claim 12 in which the
attachment member is defined by a circular base member connected to
the heavy bag and at least one rigid attachment arm attached to the
circular member and extending away therefrom.
14. The exercise apparatus according to claim 12 further including
at least a third exercise station in which a trainee performs a
third exercise routine for exercising the trainee's arms, said
third exercise station defined by first and second hand holds that
are movable from a first position in which the trainee's feet are
always above the ground during the third exercise routine and a
second position in which the trainee's feet are in contact with the
ground during at least a portion of the third exercise routine.
15. The exercise apparatus according to claim 14 in which the first
and third exercise stations are defined by a dip station and a pull
up station, respectively.
16. A method of providing exercise, comprising the steps of: a)
providing apparatus having plural exercise stations with at least
one of said exercise stations comprising a first exercise station
in which a trainee performs a first exercise for the exercising the
trainee's arms, said first exercise station defined by first and
second hand holds; b) adjusting the vertical position of the first
and second hand holds to a first position wherein the trainee's
feet are suspended over the ground during the entire first
exercise; c) adjusting the horizontal position of the first and
second hand holds relative to one another; d) commencing the first
exercise; and e) adjusting the vertical position of the first and
second hand holds to at least a second position wherein the
trainee's feet are in contact with the ground during at least a
portion of said first exercise.
17. The method of providing exercise according to claim 16
including the step adjusting the vertical position of the first and
second hand holds to at least a second position wherein the
trainee's feet are in contact with the ground during the entire
first exercise.
18. The method of providing exercise according to claim 16
including a) providing a second exercise station in which a trainee
performs a second exercise for the exercising the trainee's arms,
said second exercise station defined by first and second hand
holds; b) adjusting the vertical position of the first and second
hand holds of the second exercise station to a first position
wherein the trainee's feet are suspended over the ground during the
entire second exercise; c) adjusting the horizontal position of the
first and second hand holds of the second exercise station to a
second position; e) commencing the second exercise; and e)
adjusting the vertical position of the first and second hand holds
of the second exercise station to at least a second position
wherein the trainee's feet are in contact with the ground during at
least a portion of said second exercise routine.
19. The method according to claim 16 including the steps of
progressively lowering the vertical position of the first and
second hand holds during the first exercise.
20. The method according to claim 19 wherein the first exercise is
defined by dips and wherein the step of progressively lowering the
vertical position of the first and second hand holds during the
first exercise includes lowering the first and second hand holds of
the first exercise station to a position at which the trainee's
feet are in continuous contact with the ground during at least a
portion of the exercise.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to exercise devices, and more
specifically to an exercise apparatus that combines at least four
different exercise stations, each configured for providing a
different kind of physical activity, and arranges the exercise
stations in proximity to one another so that users may go through a
timed exercise routine with a focus on a different, specific
activities or activities at each of the stations. Each station is
adapted to provide specialized cross training uniquely suited for
mixed martial arts performance.
BACKGROUND
[0002] There is a wide variety of different types of exercise
equipment on the market and there is specialized exercise equipment
that has been designed to facilitate a variety of exercise motions.
To name just a couple of examples, treadmills allow a user to walk
or run in place, simulating a striding motion. Stair climbing
simulators allow a user to simulate the motion and physical
activity that occurs when a person ascends a set of stairs.
Stationary bicycles allow a user to pedal in place and thereby
simulate bicycle riding as a form of physical activity.
[0003] Most gyms include the types of exercise machines just
mentioned and many other machines and equipment such as weight
machines and free weights, all of which can be useful and important
parts of an exercise program. However, many people who visit gyms
can be overwhelmed by the variety of available exercise machines
and how each of the machines can be used beneficially in an overall
exercise program tailored for the individual.
[0004] Partly owing to the availability of a vast number of
different kinds of training equipment, new styles of training and
new training regimens have become popular. Cross training is a
popular style of training that refers to the use of combining a
variety of exercise modalities to improve overall performance. A
basic tenet of cross training regimes is to take advantage of the
particular effectiveness of each training method, while at the same
time overcoming the shortcomings of each method by combining it
with other methods that address the shortcomings.
[0005] There are numerous cross training programs tailored to
different sports and/or individual goals. Typically, the exercise
modalities used in any cross training routine includes activities
for improving fitness of particular muscle groups, endurance,
flexibility and weight loss and control. In a mixed martial arts
cross training regimen a variety of different exercises are used to
train for multiple martial art forms or fighting methods, such as
Jujitsu, Muay Thai and other hybrid arts--the exercise modalities
are selected to train the athlete in each of the selected methods.
However, cross training methodologies for mixed martial arts
typically relies on a variety of disparate exercise equipment,
typically located at different areas of a gym. Designing a cross
training regimen specifically targeted at desired outcomes for
mixed martial arts enthusiasts can therefore be difficult.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise
apparatus designed specifically to provide a cross training
apparatus and methods for mixed martial arts training. More
particularly the exercise apparatus of the invention combines
separate training methodologies and apparatuses that are desirable
for mixed martial arts training, then arranges each of those
apparatuses into a desired spatial orientation at separate
stations. Users of the apparatus perform an exercise routine at one
station, then move immediately to the next station and go through a
routine for that station.
[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, the exercise
apparatus utilizes four separate training stations. The first
station is a heavy bag station that may be combined with speed
bags, which is used to train in various hand-to-hand and close
combat techniques. The second and third stations are adapted to
provide upper body strengthening, but have been further adapted to
provide leg exercise as well. The second station is a pull up
station. The third station is a dip station. The fourth station is
a core exercising station that utilizes inclined benches on which
the user does sit ups, preferably with added weights such as a
medicine ball. Each bench is arranged in an orientation relative to
adjacent benches such that the users may pass a weighted device
such as a medicine ball to the adjacent user to enhance core
fitness. Additional stations and exercise protocols may be added to
each of the stations as detailed herein.
[0008] In another aspect of the present invention, both the pull up
station and the dip station are configured so that the user is able
to adjust the user interface devices--the handholds--both
vertically and horizontally. Vertical adjustment allows the user to
lower the handholds as the user becomes fatigued, even to the point
where the user's feet are on the ground, yet still performing the
exercise with the assistance of the user's legs. The horizontal
adjustment allows the user to adjust the handholds to meet the best
position for each individual, and to vary the muscle groups
exercised.
[0009] Another aspect of the invention involves the heavy bag
station and includes a rigid suspension apparatus--the structure
that attaches the heavy bag to an overhead structure from which the
bag is suspended. Referred to herein as a "suspension hat," the hat
allows a user to remove the heavy bag from its suspension point,
for example, to simulate a martial arts move where the trainee
grapples with the bag, taking it to the ground to simulate taking
an opponent to the ground, and then replace the bag in its
suspended position quickly and without assistance.
[0010] In one aspect of the invention, each of the stations is
arranged around a central frame structure. Preferably the central
frame defines a square or rectangular platform and a different
training station is found at each of the four sides of the
platform.
[0011] In another form of the present invention, a timer is used to
time the duration of exercise that each user goes through at each
station. The users progress through each of the exercise stations
in sequential order, moving to the next station when the
predetermined time interval has passed. Timed recuperation
intervals and used between training intervals.
[0012] The invention will be better understood and its numerous
features, utilities, objects and advantages will be apparent by
reference to the following detailed description of the invention
when taken in conjunction with the following drawings and the
appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first illustrated
embodiment of an exercise apparatus according to the present
invention.
[0014] FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating portions of the
first exercise station--the heavy bag station, and the third
exercise station--the pull up station, in isolation.
[0015] FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing the apparatus that is
used to suspend the heavy bag from its overhead suspension
point.
[0016] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the apparatus that is used to suspend the heavy bag from its
overhead suspension point.
[0017] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of yet another alternative
embodiment of the apparatus that is used to suspend the heavy bag
from its overhead suspension point.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a close up perspective view of the second
station--the dip station.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a close up perspective view of selected structures
of the second station.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the dip station
illustrating the structures utilized to attach the apparatus to the
support frame, and illustrating how the vertical position of the
structures may be adjusted.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a close up perspective view of the pull up station
illustrating the structures used to allow adjustment of the
vertical position of the cross bar, and the horizontal position of
the handholds.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a platform that is used with
the handholds of the dip station to define a jump-up station.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
the heavy bag station, or close combat station, in which additional
bags are included to simulate other aspects of training for hand to
hand combat.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0024] Exercise apparatus 10 is shown in a first illustrated
embodiment in FIG. 1. Each of the four exercise or training
stations is described in detail below and each is arranged around a
central supporting frame, identified generally with reference
number 12. Relative directional terms used herein are based upon
the geometric center of exercise apparatus 10 being the reference
point, and with the exercise apparatus 10 oriented as it is shown
in FIG. 1 on the floor, which defines the ground plane. Thus, the
term "downward" refers to the direction toward the floor or ground
plane on which the apparatus sits, and "upper" or "upwardly" refers
to the opposite direction. The terms "outward" or "outer" are based
on the reference point--that is, the geometric center of the
apparatus. Thus, the term "outwardly" refers generally in the
direction away from the reference point.
[0025] Support frame 12 defines a stable platform to which the
exercise stations may be attached and around which the stations are
located. Although the configuration of support frame 12 may be
varied widely, the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1 is defined
by four upright frame members, 14, 16, 18, and 20 that are
interconnected at their upper ends with horizontal frame members
22, 24, 26 and 28 to define a rectangular frame structure. A single
intermediate upper horizontal frame member 29 extends between
horizontal members 24 and 28, and as detailed below, defines an
attachment point for the first exercise station. With reference to
FIG. 2A, it may be seen that frame member 29 extends outwardly
beyond the perimeter defined by horizontal frame members 22, 24, 26
and 28, then has an extension 31 at 90 degrees to the frame member
29 and then another extension 33 that is parallel to the frame
member 29 and the ground plane. The heavy bag is suspended from
extension 33. The lowermost ends of the upright frame members are
interconnected with and stabilized by a horizontal frame member 30
that extends between upright members 14 and 20, and a horizontal
frame member 32 that extends between uprights 16 and 18. The
horizontal frame members 30 and 32 are interconnected by a single
intermediate horizontal member 34. The lower ends of the frame
members may be formed into stabilizing feet 36, 38, 40 and 42.
[0026] All of the frame members described above that define the
supporting frame 12 are preferably sturdy, heavy duty material such
as rectangular iron tubing that will support the exercise stations
and the trainees who are simultaneously using the exercise
apparatus. The frame members may be interconnected in any
conventional manner, such as welding, or they may be connected with
fittings such as bolts or pins that allow the supporting frame 12
to be disassembled as shown in FIG. 2A with the interconnection
between frame member 28 and upright frame member 14. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate and understand
that the structural configuration and details of the supporting
frame may be varied widely from that shown in FIG. 1.
[0027] As noted above, exercise apparatus 10 includes at least four
separate exercise stations, each of which is utilized to provide a
different training technique and/or physical fitness training
regime. The first training station, which is the heavy bag station,
is referenced generally with identification number 50 The second
training station is where the trainees perform a well-known
exercise called dips, and is referred to with identification number
100. The third station--the pull up station--is identified with
reference number 150, and the fourth station--the core exercising
station--is reference generally with number 200. Each of these
training stations is detailed below.
[0028] The heavy bag training station 50 may aptly be called a
close combat training station because it is used to provide
training in close combat techniques, in addition to physical
fitness training. It is defined by a heavy bag 52 that is suspended
from horizontal extension 33 (FIG. 2A). The heavy bag 52 is
preferably suspended far enough away from the supporting frame 12
so that a trainee may readily move between the bag 12 and the
supporting frame. Heavy bag 52 is a standard bag, which typically
weighs around 75 lbs. The upper portion of the bag 52 has plural
suspension points, which typically are defined by D rings such as D
rings 54 and 56 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A, which are suitably
attached to the bag in a conventional manner around an upper
peripheral edge of the bag. A suspension hat referenced generally
with number 58 is attached the bag 52 and is used to connect the
bag and hat to the horizontal frame member 33 as detailed
below.
[0029] Suspension hat 58 is illustrated in detail in FIGS. 2A and
2B. Importantly, the suspension hat includes rigid suspension arms
60, 62, 64 and 66--preferably metal struts--that extend from a
rigid circular base member 68 to a single suspension point 70. A
suspension member such as hook 72 is attached to the suspension
point 70. Base member 68 may be a circular plate 74, preferably
metallic, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, or may take other alternate
forms such as a rigid circumferential rim 76 (FIG. 2C) with the
circular base member 68 omitted--both the circular base member 68
and circumferential rim 76 lie in a plane substantially transverse
to the longitudinal axis through the bag 52. It will be appreciated
that the suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 used with
circumferential rim 76 may lie in the same plane as the rim 76--in
the manner of a rim and spokes--with one or more suspension arms
providing the attachment means for attaching the suspension hat to
the overhead suspension point.
[0030] Although suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66, and circular
base member 68 are preferably fabricated from metal and are rigid,
it will be appreciated that numerous materials may be used for
these parts. In particular, suitable materials include fiberglass,
composites, cable, wire rope, etc. and other similar materials. In
addition, rubber may be used so long as it is relatively
inflexible, but flexible nonetheless. As such, it is to be
understood that the term "rigid" as used herein and in the appended
claims refers to a structural and functional quality of whatever
"rigid" material is used, that allows the suspension hat to be
easily removed from, and replaced onto attachment loop 82. This
requires that as the detached heavy bag is lifted, the suspension
arms maintain the position of the hook 72 above the heavy bag so
that it may easily be attached to the attachment loop. This may be
contrasted with prior art heavy bags, which typically are suspended
from an overhead hook with chains and hooks. It will be appreciated
that replacing a heavy bag that is suspended with chains is nearly
impossible for one person to accomplish because when the detached
bag is lifted, the chains flop over to one side or the other and
are not in a position to be attached to the overhead suspension
point. Therefore, the term "rigid" as used to describe the
suspension arms and suspension hat described herein contemplates
functional properties of a variety of materials that may be aptly
described as being "rigid", as well as their structural
properties.
[0031] Base member 68 has multiple holes 78 drilled through an
outer peripheral portion of the base in and spaced around the
periphery in positions to accept hardware such as carabiners 80
that attach to the D rings 54, 56 and thereby attach the suspension
hat 58 directly to the heavy bag 52. The D rings (or other
attachment points) around the upper periphery of any given heavy
bag may not be located at the same position as another heavy bag.
Accordingly, the holes 78 may be drilled at regular intervals in
order to facilitate attachment of the hat to D rings that are not
evenly spaced around the upper perimeter of the bag 52. The
diameter of rigid base member 68 measured at its outer rim is
preferably about the same as or smaller than the diameter of bag
52. As such, the rigid base member 68 defines a spreader member to
which the bag 52 is attached, and from which the bag is suspended.
Preferably, the suspension hat 58 is attached closely to the heavy
bag in order to minimize relative movement between the bag and the
hat. The rigid suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 angle inwardly and
upwardly from their points of attachment to the base member 68 and
toward suspension point 70, which is located above the axial center
point of the bag 52. Stated another way, the suspension point 70 of
suspension hat 58 is above the bag 52 and aligned on the
longitudinal axis through the bag.
[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A, hook 72 is used to suspend the
suspension hat 58 and the attached bag 52 to the horizontally
extending member 33, which is fitted with an attachment loop 82
that depends downwardly from member 33, or other similar device.
Although not shown in FIG. 1, the vertical height of heavy bag 52
relative to the floor may be made adjustable by including a
mechanism providing for varying the position of the bag relative to
the floor.
[0033] As detailed below, the heavy bag training station is used to
train users in various hand-to-hand combat techniques. One aspect
of that type of training involves the trainee grabbing bag 52 and
grappling the bag to the ground by removing the bag from its
suspension point and dropping to the ground with the bag in the
manner of a wrestling move. Because hat 52 defines a rigid
suspension system, the user may remove the bag 52 from its
suspension by lifting the bag upwardly to disengage hook 72 from
attachment loop 82. The user may similarly reattach bag 52 very
easily without assistance from another participant. Specifically,
the trainee lifts the disconnected bag 52 and thus the suspension
hat 58, and re-suspending the bag by placing hook 72 in attachment
loop 82. It will be appreciated that a single user is easily able
to reattach the bag to the attachment loop without assistance from
others. Guides may be utilized to assist the trainee with the step
of attaching the hook 72 into the attachment loop 82. As shown in
FIG. 2A, the opposite outer ends of guide members may be defined by
flared plates 84 and 86 that extend outwardly from the attachment
loop 82 to define guided pathways along which the hook may be slid
while attaching the bag to the suspension member quickly and
accurately.
[0034] Because bag 52 is wrestled to the ground by trainees using
exercise apparatus 10, (not shown) may optionally be used to guard
the metal structures used in suspension hat 58 to minimize chances
of injury.
[0035] Alternative embodiments of suspension hat 58 are shown in
FIGS. 2C and 2D. The structures shown in these embodiments are
functionally and structurally equivalent to the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2A and 2B. With respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the
base member 68 is replaced with a rigid rim 69. The rigid
suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 are attached to the rigid rim 69
and angle upwardly and inwardly to suspension point 70, and hook
72. The other structures associated with the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2C are identical to those described above. With respect to the
embodiment of FIG. 2D, a rigid circular base member 68 is identical
to the base member 68 shown in FIG. 2B. However, the plural rigid
suspension arms are replaced with a single rigid suspension arm 71
that is attached to the base member 68 at the center point of the
plate. A hook 72 is attached to the distal end of the suspension
arm 71.
[0036] In all cases the rigid suspension hat defines a first member
that attaches directly to the attachment points around the upper
peripheral edge of the heavy bag (e.g., rigid circular base member
68, rim 69), so that the first member is substantially transverse
to the longitudinal axis through the bag. Attached to and extending
away from the first member is at least one second member that
attaches to the overhead suspension point (e.g., arms 60, 62, 64,
66; arm 71).
[0037] As yet another alternative embodiment for suspension hat 58,
the rigid plate 68 may have a single rigid arm attached to the
center of the plate and extending upwardly therefrom. The hook 72
is attached to the upper end of the single rigid arm. Yet again,
the suspension hat 58 may include more than one attachment points,
each attached to the rigid plate 68 (or rigid rim 69) with one or
more rigid arm members. Of course, in this case multiple overhead
attachment points are required.
[0038] In addition, first training station 50 may optionally
include one or more light bags, such as light bag 300, which is
suspended from extension member 33 adjacent heavy bag 52. Other
extensions may be added with additional light bags in order to
allow the trainee to simulate hand-to-hand combat with multiple
adversaries--each light bag 300 and the heavy bag 52 representing
an adversary.
[0039] With reference to FIG. 8, an alternative embodiment of a
heavy bag station 400 is shown to include a heavy bag 52 identical
to that described previously, and two additional bags 402 and 404,
which are preferably a medium weight bag of around 40 lbs. Bags 402
and 404 are spatially arranged on opposite sides of heavy bag 52 in
order to provide a training station that helps to simulate hand to
hand combat between the trainee and multiple attackers, each
represented by one of the three bags 52, 402 and 404.
[0040] Each of the three bags shown in FIG. 8 is attached to an
overhead suspension point using a suspension hat 58--like
structural features are identified with like reference numbers. It
will be noted, in addition, that in FIG. 8 the entire station 400
has been built to be vertically and horizontally adjustable
relative to the support frame 12, only a small portion of which is
shown in FIG. 8. Thus, the support members that support the three
bags define a generally V-shaped structure defined by two
horizontal arm members 406 and 408 that meet at an apex 410. A
horizontal arm 412 extends from apex 410 toward the frame 12 and is
longitudinally slidable in member 29 to adjust the horizontal
position of the station 400 relative to the frame 12--the arm 412
includes plural bores 414 along the length thereof and a pin 416
secures the arm 412 to the member 29. Each of the bags 52, 402 and
404 is individually adjustable in the vertical direction. For
example, as shown with respect to bag 402, the attachment loop 82
is attached to the lower end of a vertical member 418 that is
slidable in a vertical sleeve 420 that is attached to the distal
end of horizontal arm member 408. The member 418 has plural bores
422 along the length thereof, and the vertical sleeve has bores to
accommodate a pin 424. It will be readily appreciated that the
vertical height of bag 402 may be adjusted by inserting pin 424 in
a selected bore 422. The same structure is used with bags 52 and
404 as well, so all are independently adjustable.
[0041] It will also be apparent that the suspension hats 58 shown
in FIG. 8 in connection with all three of the bags 52, 402 and 404
represent an alternative embodiment where the suspension arms 60,
62, 64 and 66 are attached directly to the D-rings of the bags,
thereby omitting the circular base members and their alternative,
the circumferential rims 76. The suspension hats 58 in FIG. 8 are
defined by the suspension arms 60, 62, 64 and 66 and the hook 72 or
other attachment means used to attach the bags to the overhead
suspension point defined by attachment loops 82.
[0042] Both the second training station--dip station 100--and the
third training station--pull up station 150--are primarily intended
to provide upper body strength training. However, as detailed
below, each of these stations is specially adapted to allow the
user to exercise his or her legs in certain circumstances.
[0043] Attention now is directed to the second training station, or
dip station 100. With reference to FIG. 1, dip station 100
comprises a pair of horizontally extending handholds 102 and 104
that extend outwardly from a base member 106 that is adjustably
attached between upright frame members 14 and 16. As best
illustrated in FIG. 3, base member 106 comprises a rigid length of
tubing having a square cross sectional configuration. An attachment
member 108 is provided to connect the base member to the upright
frame members in a manner that allows for vertical adjustment of
the position of the handholds 102 and 104 along the upright frame
members. Each attachment member 108 is defined by a plate 110 that
is then angled at a 90 degree angle to define a second plate
section 112, and an upwardly extending arm section 114. A pin 116
is attached to upwardly extending arm section 114 near the upper
end thereof. The second plate section 112 of an attachment member
108 is attached to each of the opposite outer ends of the base
member 106 as shown in FIG. 3.
[0044] As noted, the base member 106 is removably attached to the
upright frame members 14 and 16 to allow for vertical adjustment of
the position of the dip station 100 relative to the ground. This
allows for users of different height to use the station, and as
detailed below, allows a user to adjust the position of the
handholds during an exercise regimen. With reference to FIGS. 3 and
4, plural L-shaped cups, identified with reference numbers 120a,
120b, 122a, 122b, etc. are located along the inner-facing surfaces
119 of upright arm members 14 and 16--the L-shaped cups with the
same numerical reference number are horizontally aligned at the
same height or elevation on the opposed upright members. Thus, cup
120a is at the same height elevation as cup 120b, cup 122a is
aligned with 122b, and so on. Base member 106 and the attached
handholds 102 and 104 are attached to the upright frame members 14
and 16 by inserting pins 116 in horizontally aligned cups, then
allowing the plates 110 to lie against the outer-facing surfaces
121 of the upright frame members. It will be appreciated that as
force is applied to handholds 102 and 104 in the direction of arrow
A in FIG. 3 (e.g., the force of gravity or the force applied by a
trainee using the dip station), plates 110 are pressed against the
adjacent upright frame members and the vertical position of the
base member and handholds is maintained with pins 116.
[0045] The vertical position of the base member and handholds may
be changed very quickly. With reference to FIG. 5 it may be seen
that the handholds (only handhold 102 is shown in FIG. 5) may be
adjusted vertically upwardly by pivoting the outermost ends of the
handholds upwardly so that the base member 106 and its attached
structures pivots about pins 116 in L-shaped cups 128a (and 128b,
which is not shown). The entire base member and handholds are
raised upwardly as shown with the dashed arrow B and the pins 116
are re-inserted into the desired L-shaped cups, in this case cups
130a (and 130b, not shown).
[0046] Handholds 102 and 104 are further adjustable laterally along
the length of base member 106. With returning reference to FIGS. 3
and 4, each of the handholds 102 and 104 has an inverted generally
U-shaped member 132 attached to the base of the handhold, for
example, by welding. The U-shaped member 132 is sized and
cooperatively shaped to extend over the base member 106 as
illustrated. As noted above, base member 106 is square in cross
sectional configuration. It will be appreciated that because the
base member 106 is square, the handholds are maintained in a
horizontal position relative to the ground plane and cannot rotate
relative to the base member. A bolt 134 extends through a bore in
each of the U-shaped members and a nut 136 is attached to the end
of the bolt. There is a slight tolerance between the U-shaped
members 132 and the base member 106. This allows the handholds to
be slid independently along base member 106 as illustrated with
arrow C in FIG. 4.
[0047] The third station, pull up station 150, is illustrated in
isolation in FIG. 6. Pull up station 150 includes a pair of
handholds 152 and 154 suspended below a cross bar 156 by any
convenient linkage that allows the handholds to be quickly and
easily removed by the trainee. The opposed ends of the cross bar
156 (identified with reference numbers 157 and 159) are captured in
retaining cups attached to upright frame members 18 and 20. Cross
bar 156 includes a bored flange 158 that is welded to the cross bar
and which depends from the lower side thereof. Flange 158 includes
plural bores 160 along its length. Each handhold 152 and 154
includes an S hook 162 that has a lower end attached to the
handhold (in the illustration, the lower portion of S hook 162 is
attached to a latching swivel 164 and the handhold is attached to
the latching portion of the swivel), and the upper portion of the S
hook is inserted through a bore 160. The S hook 162 is easily
removed from a bore 160, which allows the trainee using the pull up
station 150 to quickly change the separation distance between the
handholds, as illustrated with arrow A, to fit the individual's
needs.
[0048] The vertical position of cross bar 156 relative to the
ground and upright frame members 18 and 20 is also readily
adjustable as illustrated with arrow B in FIG. 6. Plural, paired
L-shaped cups, identified with reference numbers 170a, 170b, 172a,
172b, etc. are located along the respective outer-facing surfaces
178 of upright frame members 18 and 20--the L-shaped cups with the
same numerical reference number are vertically aligned on the
upright members. Thus, cup 170a is at the same height elevation as
cup 170b, cup 172a is aligned with 172b, and so on. The cups are
shown in FIG. 6 as being attached to the upright frame members with
bolts 180, but it will be appreciated that the cups may be attached
in any convenient manner.
[0049] The vertical position of the cross bar 156 and handhold 152
and 154 may be changed very quickly--the user simply removes the
cross bar 156 from the cups in which the cross bar is being held
(cups 172a and 172b in FIG. 6) by lifting the bar upwardly, adjusts
the height of the bar to the desired level, and places the ends of
the bar into the desired cups. The opposite ends of flange 158 are
angled at 182 and the width of the flange at its widest point is
slightly less than the width measured between the inner edges of
paired cups, such as cups 172a and 172b. As such, when the cross
bar 156 is placed in the cups, the angled portion 182 of the flange
prevents the cross bar from sliding longitudinally in the cups, and
the flange keeps the cross bar centered.
[0050] With returning reference to FIG. 1, core station 200 is
defined by three sit up benches, 202, 204 and 206. Each of the
three sit up benches is identical and is defined by an angled bench
208 that is supported at its outermost end 210 with a foot 212. The
opposite end of the bench 213 is also supported by its attachment
to a support arm such that a foot bar is spaced apart from the
floor. A hand bar 218 extends upwardly near end 213. The benches
may be padded, if desired. The benches 202, 204 and 206 are used in
a conventional manner with the user's head near outermost end 210
and with the user's feet under the foot bar.
[0051] The number of benches and their orientations relative to one
another and their orientation relative to the support frame 12 are
not critical features.
[0052] Use of exercise apparatus 10 will now be described with
reference to FIG. 1. Apparatus 10, as configured in FIG. 1, is
suited for simultaneous use by up to six trainees. Although fewer
may use the apparatus at any one time, by training in a group there
is a group training aspect that enhances the training experience.
Preferably, apparatus 10 includes a timer 250 that is readily
visible to each trainee--plural timers each displaying identical
information may be used so each trainee can easily see the timer.
Three trainees are positioned on the three core benches 202, 204
and 206 of core station 200. A trainee is positioned at each of the
three other stations, heavy bag station 50, dip station 100 and
pull up station 150. The vertical and horizontal positions of
handholds 102 and 104 of dip station 100 are adjusted according to
the trainee's preference--typically, the vertical adjustment is
initially such that the trainee's feet are above the ground when
the trainee is in the lowest body position required for the
exercise performed at that station. With dips, the lowest body
position is when the trainee's arms are fully flexed. Likewise, the
vertical and horizontal positions of handholds 152 and 154 of pull
up station 150 are adjusted according to the trainee's
preference--the vertical adjustment is initially such that the
trainee's feet are above the ground when the trainee is suspended
from the handholds.
[0053] A predetermined timing interval is then set in the timer(s)
250. When this is done, a display 252 on the timer 250 displays the
initial training interval. The training interval, which is the
duration of time at which the trainees will exercise at their
respective initial positions, may be set at any amount of time. A
typical training interval is 2 minutes, and accordingly, display
252 would display "2:00".
[0054] A recuperation interval is then set in the timer(s) 250. The
recuperation interval is a predetermined time between training
intervals during which the trainees may rest. Thus, once a training
interval has expired--i.e., display 252 has counted down from 2:00
to 0, the recuperation interval is then displayed on display 252.
As with the training interval, the recuperation interval may be any
amount of time. Typically, the recuperation interval is 30 seconds;
the display automatically displays ":30" once the training interval
reaches zero on the display.
[0055] With all trainees in position, the timer 250 is started. The
trainee at heavy bag station 50 goes through an exercise routine in
which, among other things, the trainee grapples the heavy bag 52,
removes it from its suspension from extension member 33 and
wrestles the bag to the ground. As detailed earlier, the rigid
suspension hat 58 allows the trainee to replace the heavy bag 52 in
its original suspended position very easily. The trainee may then
use light bag 300, and combine that with punching and kicking
exercises. The exercise routine may be varied widely according to
desired mixed martial arts techniques and protocols.
[0056] Simultaneously, the trainee at dip station 100 will begin
performing dips, which are a standard exercise. This trainee is
required to continue the exercise for the full duration of the
training interval. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary
skill that few trainees, even those who are highly fit, will be
able to perform dips for the full training interval if the interval
is of any length, such as 2 minutes. As such, when the trainee
becomes fatigued he or she lowers the handholds 102 and 104 in the
manner detailed above to the point where the trainee's feet are on
the ground during at least a portion of the dip exercise. With the
handholds thus adjusted, the trainee continues to perform dips.
However, since the trainee's feet are on the ground during at least
a part of each repetition, the trainee will have an assist from
their legs. If the trainee continues to fatigue during the training
interval, the height of the handholds may be further lowered so
there is an even greater assist from the trainee's legs.
[0057] Simultaneously, the trainee at pull up station 150 will
begin performing pull ups, which also are a standard exercise. This
trainee is required to continue repeating the pull ups for the full
duration of the training interval. As with dips, it will be
appreciated that few athletes are able to perform pull ups for even
a 2 minute interval. When the trainee becomes fatigued, he or she
lowers the handholds 152 and 154 as described above to the point
where their feet are on the ground during at least a portion of the
pull up repetition. With the handholds thus adjusted, the trainee
continues to perform pull ups with an assist from the trainee's
legs during at least a portion of the repetition. The handholds may
be lowered further if the trainee continues to fatigue and is
unable to finish the training interval at the set height, again, so
there is an even greater assist from the trainee's legs.
[0058] Simultaneously, the three trainees on the core benches 202,
204 and 206 begin performing sit ups when the timer is started.
Optionally, one or two trainees may be provided with weights, such
as a medicine ball, to be held in their hands as they perform sit
ups. When the trainee is in the most upright position, he or she
passes the medicine ball to the trainee on the adjacent core bench,
for example, moving in a clockwise rotation.
[0059] Once the timer 250 has counted down to zero, the
recuperation interval is displayed and begins counting down to
zero. An alarm may be used to signal the end of a training
interval. During the recuperation interval, all of the trainees
rotate into the next sequential exercise position or station and
make any adjustments to the station as detailed above. For example,
the trainee on core bench 206 moves to pull up station 150, the
trainee on pull up station 150 moves to heavy bag station 50, the
trainee on heavy bag station moves to dip station 100, the trainee
on heavy bag station 100 goes to core bench 202, the trainee on
core bench 202 moves to bench 204, and the trainee on bench 204
moves to bench 206. Of course, where the trainees move during the
recuperation interval may be varied widely. When the recuperation
interval ends, "00:00" is displayed on the display 252, an alarm
may sound, and the display is automatically reset to display an
identical training interval, which begins immediately. An optional
secondary display window 254 on timer 250 may display other
information, such as elapsed time and/or the number of training
intervals that have elapsed.
[0060] This routine of training intervals followed by recuperation
intervals is continued until each trainee has performed a training
interval at each station, and at each core bench at core station
200. It will be appreciated that if there are six trainees, and if
the training interval is set to 2 minutes, the total training time
is only 12 minutes (with a total of 3 minutes of recuperation time
in the recuperation intervals). Although this is a relatively short
period of time for an exercise routine, the training has shown to
be highly effective. Moreover, the team camaraderie aspect of a
group of individuals training as a team has shown to be highly
motivating.
[0061] Turning now to FIG. 7, dip station 100 may be easily
converted into a different type of exercising station by installing
a plate 350 that is configured to be removably attached to the
handholds 102 and 104. The plate 350 defines a platform that is
used as a jump-up platform. The vertical height of the plate 350
relative to the ground is easily adjustable in the same manner
described above with respect to handholds 102 and 104, so the
distance that the user jumps up to the jump-up platform may be
varied according to the trainee's particular needs, fitness level
and fatigue level. Plate 350 includes a channel 352 that is
cooperatively shaped with base member 106 of dip station 100. The
channel 352 of plate 350 may be fitted over the base member with
handholds 102 and 104 remaining in position. When the plate is
installed, the plate rests on the handholds, which support it. Two
pins 354 are used with spring clips 356 to secure the plate in
place over the base member and handholds.
[0062] It will be appreciated that various modifications to the
equipment used in each of the four training stations may be made
without departing from the scope of the invention. To provide a few
examples, the suspension hat for suspending the heavy bag 52 from
an overhead attachment point may utilize a single rigid arm
attached to either a circular plate or a peripheral rim. Also, the
suspension hat may have multiple rigid arms that are separately
attached to separate attachment points to multiple overhead
attachment points. Likewise, the manner of providing for both
vertical and horizontal adjustment of the handholds for the dip
station and pull up station may be varied in equivalent manners to
achieve the same functional result. And of course, the hook 72 and
attachment loop 82 may be reversed so that the hook depends from
the overhead suspension point. Yet another alternative structure
for attaching the heavy bag to the overhead suspension point is to
replace hook 72 with a ball, and replace attachment loop 82 with a
socket configured for accepting and retaining the ball, yet
allowing release of the ball (and therefore the heavy bag) when
sufficient force is applied to the heavy bag.
[0063] While the present invention has been described in terms of a
preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary
skill that the spirit and scope of the invention is not limited to
those embodiments, but extend to the various modifications and
equivalents as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *