U.S. patent application number 13/045496 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-15 for stability exercise machine.
Invention is credited to William Joseph Crawley.
Application Number | 20110224059 13/045496 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44560523 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110224059 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crawley; William Joseph |
September 15, 2011 |
STABILITY EXERCISE MACHINE
Abstract
An exercise bench with a fillable bladder or other resilient
member which provides a support surface for a user exercising
thereon. The exercise bench providing many of the benefits of a
traditional weight bench, while also providing the potential upside
of engaging the user's core during exercise. The resilient member
can be shaped according to the needs of the exercise to be
performed. The resilient nature of the cushion limits bottoming out
providing a true cushion support rather than laying on a hard
surface.
Inventors: |
Crawley; William Joseph;
(Draper, UT) |
Family ID: |
44560523 |
Appl. No.: |
13/045496 |
Filed: |
March 10, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61312610 |
Mar 10, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/078 20130101;
A63B 22/16 20130101; A63B 21/00069 20130101; A63B 21/4029 20151001;
A63B 23/02 20130101; A63B 21/15 20130101; A63B 2225/62 20130101;
A63B 26/003 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/142 |
International
Class: |
A63B 26/00 20060101
A63B026/00 |
Claims
1. A stability cushion exercise machine comprising: a frame having
one or more upright support members, the frame being adapted to
provide stability to the additional components of the stability
cushion exercise machine; and a cushion component secured to the
frame, the cushion component providing a support surface for one or
more portions of a user's body when the user is exercising in
connection with the exercise machine wherein the cushion component
is configured to provide a desired degree of instability to
encourage use of core muscles and other stabilizing muscles to
maintain the user's desired stability while exercising on the
cushion component.
2. The stability cushion exercise machine according to claim 1,
wherein the frame raises the cushion and exercise surface above the
floor on which the frame is positioned.
3. The stability cushion exercise machine according to claim 2,
wherein the cushion comprises an inflatable bladder.
4. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 3, wherein the
inflatable bladder provides a desired degree of resiliency and also
resistance to support a user exercising thereon while also
providing a desired degree of instability to encourage the use of
core muscles during exercise.
5. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 4, wherein the
inflatable bladder provides an upper contact surface for supporting
a user exercising thereon.
6. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 4, wherein the
inflatable bladder is covered by an upper contact member, such that
the inflatable bladder is one of several components comprising the
cushion.
7. A stability cushion exercise machine comprising: a frame adapted
to provide a desired support surface which is raised from the
floor; and a non-spherical cushion component secured to the frame,
the non-spherical cushion component providing a support surface for
one or more portions of a user's body when the user is exercising
in connection with the exercise machine wherein the non-spherical
cushion component provides a greater contact surface than a
spherical contact surface having the same radius.
8. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the
contact surface of the non-spherical cushion component is adapted
to conform to the portion of the user's body to be supported by the
cushion during exercise.
9. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the
contact surface of the non-spherical cushion component is selected
based on the type of exercise to be performed.
10. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the
contact surface of the non-spherical cushion has an elongate
configuration such that a substantially elongate contact surface is
provided to support various portions of a user's body.
11. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 10, wherein the
contact surface of the non-spherical cushion is adapted to support
the user's torso, buttocks and head.
12. A stability cushion exercise machine comprising: a frame
adapted to provide a desired support surface which is raised from
the floor; and an air filled resilient member secured to the frame,
the air filled resilient member providing a support surface for one
or more portions of a user's body when the user is exercising in
connection with the exercise machine wherein the resiliency of the
air filled resilient member is selected to minimize bottoming out
of the air filled resilient member when the user is positioned on
the air filled resilient member during exercise.
13. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 12, wherein the
frame provides a configuration which is similar in height weight
and size to traditional exercise machines.
14. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 13, wherein the
frame allows a user to place themselves in a multitude of exercise
positions similar to traditional exercise machines while
simultaneously laying or sitting on an air filled surface provided
by air filled resilient member.
15. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 12, wherein
combination of the frame and the air filled resilient member in
combination provide an improved which are superior to other methods
of building core strength.
16. A stability cushion exercise machine comprising: a frame
adapted to provide a support to the other components of the
exercise machine; and an air filled resilient member secured to the
frame, the air filled resilient member having a first axis and a
second axis wherein the dimensions of the first axis are different
from the dimensions of the second axis and wherein the differences
between the dimensions of the first axis and the second axis
provide differing levels of instability of the air filled resilient
members in the direction of the first axis and the second axis to
provide an improved support surface on which to exercise.
17. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 16, wherein the
air filled resilient member first axis has a dimension that is
shorter than the dimension of the second axis.
18. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 16, wherein the
air filled resilient member first axis has a dimension that is
wider than the dimension of the second axis.
19. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 16, wherein the
air filled resilient member first axis has a dimension which is
selected to provide a greater degree of stability and dimension of
the second axis is selected to provide a lesser degree of stability
to provide a controlled and carefully selected engagement of the
user's core muscles.
20. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the
air filled resilient member includes a securement portion for
securing the air filled resilient member to the frame.
21. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the
frame includes a securement member for securing the air filled
resilient member to the frame.
22. The stability cushion exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the
air filled resilient member includes a flange and a support ring is
provided to secure the flange relative to components of the frame.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to,
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/312,610 filed 10 Mar.
2010, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to exercise machines and
exercise benches with seats, platforms and/or other cushions which
are filled with air, or otherwise are provided with a desired
degree of instability to engage the user's core muscles to maintain
balance when exercising.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Traditional weight benches, while having a variety of
configurations, are typically designed to provide a support surface
allowing a user to perform repetitive exercise movements in a safe
and effective manner. The bulk of weight benches and exercise
machines typically rely on foam rubber or other foam like
cushioning material covered in vinyl or other suitable fabric. The
underlying foam is configured to add comfort and support to the
user while the use sits or lays on the bench during a workout.
[0004] Traditional benches which utilize or rely on foam or other
similar material in the production of these platforms have several
drawbacks. For example, a solid, cushioned platform may provide
sufficient support to allow for repetitive motions of exercise, but
still fail to provide sufficient instability to truly engage the
user's core muscles. Typically such platforms, are more utilitarian
in nature thus lacking the ergonomics to conform a user's unique
body shape. Additionally, the solid or semi solid materials such as
foam, gel, foam rubber and their support surfaces cannot be
adjusted to meet the needs of individual users. For example, areas
of stiffness, softness and other which relate to the user's comfort
are often lacking in any meaningful degree. Such foam, gel or
rubber surfaces also tend to bottom out resulting in the user
laying directly on a hard underlying substrate surface. Materials
may degrade and flatten our over time, thus reducing their
effectiveness, safety and comfort. As a result, shortcomings in the
material properties of the bench's cushion may reduce the overall
performance of the exercise bench. For example, by providing simple
foam cushions which tend to compress to the point where the user is
resting on the equivalent of a hard surface results in pressure on
bone and joint which can result in the potential for multiple use
injuries to a user.
[0005] New and expanded knowledge of the importance of
strengthening the body's core muscle groups have led to exploration
of new exercise methods. For example, in recent years stability
balls or exercise balls (commonly known as `Swiss Balls`) have
become increasingly popular. However these exercise balls
regardless of their size and other slight variations have many
drawbacks and can actually be fairly dangerous. For example, some
users combine the use of exercise balls with weights. However,
rolling, rupturing or other unexpected occurrences can lead to
potential harm to the user.
[0006] Support stands which have been developed for some exercise
balls can provide an increased level of support for the ball, but
still suffers many deficiencies. For example, the spherical shape
can be difficult to use in many exercises. A spherical shape can be
very poor shape for exercise. Spherical shapes provide a fairly
limited support area for the user. Additionally, providing a
support surface to existing balls does little to decrease the fact
that exercise balls are prone to bursting which can cause
injury.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stability cushion exercise
machine according to one aspect of the present invention.
[0008] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a stability cushion
exercise machine bench frame according to one aspect of the present
invention.
[0009] FIG. 2B is a perspective end view of a stability cushion
exercise bench according to one aspect of the present
invention.
[0010] FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C illustrate a two-sided support cushion
according to one aspect of the present invention.
[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a user utilizing support cushions
having different dimensions according to one aspect of the present
invention.
[0012] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a cushion having a flat exercise
surface according to one aspect of the present invention.
[0013] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a cushion having a flat exercise
surface and tiered or layered configuration according to one aspect
of the present invention.
[0014] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a cushion having a support
surface having a convex configuration according to one aspect of
the present invention.
[0015] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a cushion having a support
surface having a flat configuration according to one aspect of the
present invention.
[0016] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a cushion having a slightly
convex textured upper surface according to one aspect of the
present invention.
[0017] FIG. 10A illustrates a cushion having a plurality of columns
for providing a desired degree of flexibility while also providing
a desired shape of the cushion according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0018] FIG. 11A illustrate a multi-purpose adjustable exercise
bench having an instability cushion according to one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 11B is a top view of a multi-purpose adjustable
exercise bench having an instability cushion according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 11C is an end view of a multi-purpose adjustable
exercise bench having an instability cushion according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a component view of a multi-purpose adjustable
exercise bench having an instability cushion according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 13A illustrates an abdominal exercise bench having an
instability cushion according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 13B is a top view of an abdominal exercise bench having
an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 13C is an end view of an abdominal exercise bench
having an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a component view of an abdominal exercise bench
having an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0026] FIG. 15 illustrates a preacher curl exercise machine having
an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a component view of a preacher curl exercise
machine having an instability cushion according to one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 17 illustrates an incline bench exercise machine having
an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0029] FIG. 18 is a component view of an incline bench exercise
machine having an instability cushion according to one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of an instability cushion
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0031] The present invention is directed to an exercise bench with
a fillable bladder or other resilient member which provides a
support surface for a user exercising thereon. The resilient member
can be filled with air, similar gasses, liquids, gels or other
fillers which allow the fillable bladder to provide resiliency and
support, while also allowing for a desired degree of instability.
In this manner the user can utilize many of the traditional
benefits of a weight bench, while also providing the potential
upside of engaging the user's core during exercise.
[0032] Additionally, many of the drawbacks and potential dangers of
exercise benches and exercise balls are overcome by the design. By
providing a design which permits the use of an instability cushion
with a traditional exercise bench design, the overall performance
of the bench is greatly enhanced. As a result, overall improved
exercise is provided. Additionally, the exercise is a safer while
also providing a superior method of building core strength.
[0033] The resilient member can be shaped according to the needs of
the exercise to be performed. For example, on a bench press type
machine, the fillable bladder provided may be elongate to support a
user laying thereon. In this manner, improved support to a user
resting supline on the exercise bench is provided. The resilient
nature of the cushion limits bottoming out providing a true cushion
support rather than laying on a hard surface. Additionally, a
desired level of instability in the resilient support surface
allows engaging of the user's core, without the risks of rupture of
the bladder, rolling of an exercise ball, or a level of instability
which could cause the user to entirely loose balance which could
result in unnecessary lateral strain, dropping of a weight or pose
an unnecessary risk of injury.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] The present invention is related to a stability cushion
exercise machine that includes a support frame for supporting a
cushion component at a location off of the ground so that the user
of the stability cushion exercise machine can do one or more
exercises while being supported at the level above the ground. For
example, a cushion component for providing a seat or a back support
for a bench press can be located by the frame at least six inches
off the ground or at least one foot off the ground. The frame can
be similar, or the same, as a common bench, chair, preacher curl,
or other typical weight lifting support frame. However, according
to the teachings herein, the foam pad typically used at support
points for the person exercising are replaced with one or more
air-filled bladders. These air-filled bladders have many advantages
over foam-filled pads as discussed herein and as will become
apparent as the different embodiments are further explained.
[0035] For example, air-filled cushion components can have their
support traits tailored over a length, width, or radially by
changing the relative thickness of the cushion material over the
length, width, or radially of the cushion. Different materials with
different elasticities can be used to create composite cushions,
with different support characteristics at different locations of
the air-filled cushions. And, the internal pressure of the air, or
other gas, can be varied to change the support characteristics of
the cushion. This change in internal air pressure can be changed
"on the fly", even during a workout, so as to entirely tailor the
support characteristics for the particular user or exercise. For
example, a user who is relatively heavy may enjoy an air pressure
or cushion design that is designed for their weight and preferences
as compared to a user who is relatively light.
[0036] The air-filled cushion can be entirely devoid of anything
but gas. So, for example, the air-filled cushion would not have any
foam within the cushion or it could have a relatively low level of
foam within.
[0037] According to some embodiments disclosed herein the cushion
can have a fluid or gel within the cushion. However, according to
the preferred embodiments, the cushion has air within the cushion
and the cushion acts as a deformable bladder conforming the user's
body during an exercise. For example, the size and shape of the
cushion can be tailored for the particular exercise being performed
and the support point of the user where a cushion for a support
point for a user's arm might be smaller than a cushion for a
support point for a user's back. Moreover, the size and shape of
the cushion can be tailored to the length of the user's triceps in
a preacher curl embodiment whereas the size and shape of the
cushion supporting the user's back in a bench press embodiment
would be much longer and wider to sufficiently support the user's
back.
[0038] The volume of air within the air bladder of such a cushion
can vary from at least 6 cubic inches in a small cushion to at
least 1 cubic foot or 2 cubic feet in a larger cushion, or more. In
each embodiment, as discussed above, the gas is compressible, and
therefore, creates an outward pressure on the inside surface of the
bladder of the cushion. And, this outward pressure is displaced by
the weight or the user or by pressure against the pressure points
of the user so as to deform the cushion and create an instability
for the user during the exercise so as to encourage use of core
muscles and other stabilizing muscles to maintain the user's
desired stability while exercising on the cushion component.
[0039] The pressure of the air, or other gas, within the cushion
can be at least 5 pounds per square inch, at least 10 pounds per
square inch, at least 15 pounds per square inch, at least 20 pounds
per square inch, at least 25 pounds per square inch, or more. The
pressure of the air can be adjustable as discussed above, or can be
set at a predetermined optimum pressure. The pressure of the air
can be selected based on the exercise, the size and/or shape of the
user, and/or the strength of the user. So, where a particular user
is stronger than another particular user and will lift more weight
as a result, a different more resilient cushion can be selected or
the air pressure within the cushion can be varied to compensate for
the variation in user body shape, strength, and/or particular
exercise chosen.
[0040] The embodiments herein need not use only air-filled cushions
but can also include a combination of air-filled cushions,
fluid-filled cushions, and/or foam filled cushions. Preferably,
however, at least one air-filled cushion is implemented to
resulting the core strengthening advantages that the inventor of
this application has discovered by using the exercise machines
disclosed herein.
[0041] In a bench embodiment the bench can have adjustable angles
and can have a weight support structure of the frame configured to
support the weights supported by a bar at an accessible level above
the user prior to and after a bench press exercise.
[0042] Similarly, a preacher-curl embodiment can include a similar
weight supporting structure for supporting a curl-bar or other bar
holding weights prior to and after a preacher-curl exercise.
[0043] The inventor of this patent application has found an
unexpected and synergistic result from the combination of elements
disclosed herein, and claimed, beyond the various independent
exercise components. The fitness machines disclosed herein offer a
new and unexpected core strengthening result while additional
beneficial muscle exercises are simultaneously conducted to the
other muscles and muscle groups. And, the ergonomic effect of the
body shape designed air cushion support further enhances the
synergistic and unexpected results. For the fitness industry, the
introduction of such synergistic designs does not require a
reconfiguration, or expansion, of a current exercise facility.
Rather, the designs herein can be included, or supplemented, within
the current fitness center layout and facilities without
undesirable extra expenditures or reconfigurations. Further
features and advantages can be apparent from the disclosure
hereinafter and will be apparent to one of ordinary skill after
reading this disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stability cushion exercise
machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
According to the illustrated embodiment of the present invention,
the stability cushion exercise machine 10 includes a cushion 12 and
a frame 14. Frame 14 is representative of a variety of support
mechanisms for supporting a user during a desired exercise.
[0045] Cushion 12 is supported by the infrastructure provided by
frame 14. Cushion 12 is one example of a cushion component. Cushion
12 is also one example of an air filled resilient member. In the
illustrated embodiment, cushion 12 provides a support surface which
minimizes bottoming out during exercise.
[0046] The size, dimension, and material properties of cushion 12
are selected to provide a desired degree of instability to a user
exercising or otherwise positioned on cushion 12. Depending on the
type of exercise the bench is configured to provide, cushion 12 can
comprise a seat, platform and/or other surface for laying and/or
sitting during exercise. Use of cushion 12 encourages and/or
requires a user to use core muscles to maintain desired stability
during repetitive motion exercises. Core muscles tend to be muscles
which run the length of the trunk and torso and are utilized to
stabilize the spine, pelvis and shoulder girdle to create a solid
base of support for normal body movement. Such core muscles can
include, but are not limited to the Rectus Abdominus, Erector
Spinea, Multifidus, External Obliques, Internal Obliques,
Transverse Abdominis, Hip Flexors, Gluteus medius, Gluteus minimus,
Gluteus maximus, hamstrings, piriformis and hip abductors.
[0047] The configuration of cushion 12 allows a user to exercise
more than one muscle group. While traditional exercise balls
typically are focused on abdominal exercises, by incorporating air
surfaces into traditional weight benches and weight machines, the
user can focus on building extremity muscles while simultaneously
building their core muscles. The synergies of shaping air surfaces
and traditional weight benches makes such benefits possible.
[0048] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the
particular core muscles which are employed during a particular
exercise can depend on the type and nature of stability cushion
exercise machine and the type and nature of exercise performed on
the machine. It should also be understood that while the stability
cushion exercise machine can improve the exercise of core muscles,
other muscle groups can also be targeted, or provided with enhanced
workout by use of a stability cushion exercise machine.
[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, frame 14 is depicted. Frame
14 can include a variety of exercise benches and exercise machines
that are similar in height, length and size as traditional benches,
machines. The dimensions of frame 14 can be selected to allow a
user to better place themselves in a multitude of exercise
positions while laying or sitting on a surface filled with air.
Frame 14 includes a base support stand 16, a rotation member 18, a
base support member 20, a first upright support member 22 and a
second upright support member 24. Frame 14 can also include bench
support frame 30 according to one embodiment of the present
invention. According to another embodiment of the present
invention, bench support frame 30 comprises a portion of cushion
12.
[0050] Base support stand 16 provides infrastructure for
stabilizing frame 14 relative to the floor, or other support
surface, upon which stability cushion exercise machine 10 is
positioned. Base support stand 16 includes a lower contact surface
which directly contacts the support surface or floor. Additionally,
base support stand extends laterally substantially the entire
length of stability cushion exercise machine.
[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, base support stand 16
includes a base support member 20. Base support member 20 is
positioned centrally with respect to the other components of frame
14. Base support member 20 has a generally elliptical shape which
extends laterally from the central axis provided by the other
components of base support stand 16. In this manner, base support
member 20 provides lateral support to frame 14 to minimize
undesired tipping or other instability to frame 14 relative to the
ground.
[0052] Frame 14 includes a first upright support member 22 and a
second upright support member 24. First upright support member is
secured to one end of base support member 20 along the central axis
of base support member 20. Second upright support member 24 is
secured to base support member 20 at the other end of base support
member 20 at a position along the central axis of base support
member 20. First and second upright support members 22 and 24 have
a first portion which is adapted to remain in contact with the
floor for a predetermined distance. A second portion of upright
support members 22 and 24 are adapted to extend in an upright
manner so as to provide desired support for cushion 12. A third and
middle portion of each of upright support members 22 and 24 are
adapted to provide a curved or angled transition from the first
portion to the second portions of each of first and second upright
support member 22 and 24. This allows a substantially 90 degree
angle to be formed between first and second portions of upright
support members.
[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the cushion assembly 12 is
secured to the frame 14 at the upper ends of first upright support
member 22 and second upright support member 24. In the illustrated
embodiment, cushion assembly 12 comprises a bench support frame 30,
an instability cushion 32 and a secondary cushion member 34.
Support frame 30 comprises a component on which the other members
of cushion assembly 12 are mounted. Instability cushion 32
comprises a resilient member which provides a support surface on
which a user can sit/stand or otherwise utilize during exercise. In
the illustrated embodiment, instability cushion 32 is formed from a
resilient material having a durometer which provides a desired
level of support, but also the resiliency needed to achieve a
degree of instability which encourages a user to engage his/her
core muscles to maintain a desired degree of stability on the
instability of cushion 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the
instability cushion has a desired degree of arc to provide an
instability ball like feel, while also have an elongate
configuration which can be useful for bench press, pectoral fly or
other exercises where the user is positioned on his/her back.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, a pivot mechanism 36 is
provided. Pivot mechanism 36 allows a user to rotate cushion
assembly 12 such that secondary cushion member 34 is positioned
upward. In this manner, in the event that the user desires to
conduct traditional exercises using a more traditional stable
support surface, the secondary cushion member 34 is provided. A
rotation pin 38 is provided to selectively secure or release the
pivot mechanism to allow for free and full rotation of cushion
assembly 12.
[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the
resilient member forming cushion 12 is secured to frame 14
utilizing a support ring and a base plate. Support ring and base
plate can be made utilizing a number of materials including, but
not limited to steel, plastic, aluminum, carbon fiber and so forth.
The membrane or bladder forming from which cushion 12 is formed has
a flange which runs around its entire outer perimeter. The flange
which is integrally formed on the outside annular extremity of
resilient member is secured to components of frame 14. The flange
can include mounting holes which allow the bladder to be secured to
its frame using screws, pins and/or bolts. The bladder is then
placed on the base plate and the support ring is placed over the
base plate. Using a securement mechanism such as a screw, bolt,
rivet or pin, the components can then be secured relative to the
frame 14.
[0056] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a frame 14 of stability
cushion exercise machine 10 according to one aspect of the present
invention. In the illustrated embodiment, frame 14 includes a base
support member 20, first upright support member 22, second upright
support member 24 and support frame 30. In the illustrated
embodiment, coupling mechanisms 40, 42 and circumferential support
member 44 and cross support members 46a-b are depicted. Base
support member 20 is secured to first upright support member 22 and
second upright support member 24 utilizing coupling mechanisms 40
and 42. In the illustrated embodiment, first upright support member
22 and second upright support member 24 have an angled
configuration such that a portion of each of members 22 and 24 are
positioned on the support surface. The upright support members 22
and 24 can extend at least six inches, or at least one foot so as
to support the cushion at a desired height above the ground.
[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, support frame 30 includes
circumferential support member 44 and cross support members 46a-d.
Circumferential support member 44 is configured to provide support
to the outer perimeter of a cushion positioned thereon. Cross
support members 46a-d provide additional strength and support to
circumferential support member 44. Additionally, cross support
members 46a-d provides additional support to a cushion attached to
support frame 30.
[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, rotation pin 38 is depicted.
Rotation pin is provided in connection with a pivot mechanism. A
user can retract rotation pin to allow the pivot mechanism to be
utilized to rotate support frame 30. In this manner, the underside
of support frame can be rotated exposing the underside of support
frame. This can be useful. For example, a first cushion can be
provided on one side of support frame 30 and a second cushion
having different parameters from the first cushion can be utilized
from the user if different desired cushioning properties are
desired.
[0059] FIG. 2B is a perspective end view of a stability cushion
exercise bench according to one aspect of the present invention. In
the illustrated embodiment, the juxtaposition of upright support
member 24 relative to support frame 30 and base support member 20.
Additionally, rotation pin 38 is depicted.
[0060] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, frame 14
is provided for exemplary purposes and shall not be considered to
be limited to the type and configuration of frames than can be
provided. A variety of types and configurations of support frames
can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the
present invention.
[0061] FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C illustrate a two-sided support cushion
according to one aspect of the present invention. In the
illustrated embodiment, instability cushion 32 is positioned on an
upper facing surface and is secured to support frame 30. In the
illustrated embodiment, instability cushion 32 comprises a somewhat
arcuate or rounded upper contact surface which is elongate or
non-spherical in configuration.
[0062] Cushion 32 has a first axis and a second axis wherein the
dimensions of the first axis are different from the dimensions of
the second axis and wherein the differences between the dimensions
of the first axis and the second axis provide differing levels of
instability of the cushion 32 in the direction of the first axis
and the second axis to provide an improved support surface on which
to exercise. In this manner, cushion 32 provides a plurality of
shapes that are more conducive to an exercise machine than a swiss
ball-type or spherical apparatus. Other shapes can also be provided
such as squares, ovals, triangles or other suitable variations of
resilient cushion members. By integrating an instability cushion
with traditional weight bench designs, allow exercises which are
more conducive to exercises known to users.
[0063] Cushion 32 has a non-spherical configuration. The
non-spherical configuration of cushion component 32 provides a
support surface for one or more portions of a user's body when the
user is exercising in connection with the exercise machine wherein
the non-spherical cushion component provides a greater contact
surface than a spherical contact surface having the same
radius.
[0064] In the illustrated embodiment a secondary cushion 34 is
depicted. Secondary cushion 34 has a lower elevation than cushion
component 32. Secondary cushion 34 may have different properties
from cushion component 32. For example, cushion component 32 may
have little or no instability allowing a user to perform exercises
on a more stable surface when desired by rotating support frame 30
such that cushion component 34 is positioned in an upward facing
direction while cushion component 32 is positioned so as to be out
of use.
[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, cushion component 34 has a
different texture than the annular raised rings which are depicted
as being included on instability cushion 32.
[0066] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
variety of shapes and configurations of cushions can be provided
without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. For example, cushions having differing thickness,
durometer, resiliency, inflation and material properties can be
provided. For example, one cushion may be an air cushion, while the
other cushion may be a foam cushion.
[0067] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a user utilizing support cushions
having different dimensions according to one aspect of the present
invention. For example, 4A depicts a stability cushion exercise
machine having a instability cushion 32b having a shorter length
causing the user's head and buttocks to require greater support and
requiring the user to engage desired core muscles. 4B shows an
instability cushion 32a having a somewhat longer length. As can be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, the selected length of the
instability cushion provided can vary the exercise experience. For
example, cushion 32a provides greater support to the user's head
and buttocks and a different exercise experience.
[0068] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a cushion 32a having a flat
contact surface according to one aspect of the present invention.
The cushion has a generally smooth arcuate configuration on the
sides. The upper contact surface having a flat configuration allows
the cushion to provide a degree of instability, but improved
comfort and support for certain exercises. In this manner, improved
contact is provided while also allowing the resilient nature of the
cushion to provided desired flexibility.
[0069] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a cushion having a flat exercise
surface and tiered or layered configuration according to one aspect
of the present invention. Providing a flat surface with a tiered
configuration can provide differing material properties relative to
a flat surface. As will be understood by those skilled in the art,
varying properties and configurations of resilient bladders and air
filled cushions can be selected to vary the benefits of the air
cushion without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention.
[0070] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a 32a cushion having a support
surface 50 with a convex configuration according to one aspect of
the present invention. The convex configuration provides a desired
ability to remain positioned on the stability portion of the
cushion. In the illustrated embodiment, support surface 50 provides
an ergonomic design configured to support a user's body while also
allowing for the inflatable nature of cushion 32a to provide a
desired level of cushion and instability.
[0071] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a 32b cushion having a support
surface 52 with an essentially flattened upper contact surface
according to one aspect of the present invention. In the
illustrated embodiment, support surface 52 provides desired user
contact but also continues to provide lateral instability which may
be different in nature from cushion 32a depicted in FIGS. 7A and
7B.
[0072] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a cushion 40 with a slightly
convex textured upper surface according to one aspect of the
present invention. The textured surface provides improved gripping
which can be desired for certain types of exercise.
[0073] FIG. 10A illustrates a cushion 42 having a plurality of
columns 44 for providing a desired degree of instability while also
providing a desired shape of the cushion according to one
embodiment of the present invention. The columns 44 provide a
desired level of instability, while also providing a desired degree
of uniformity which may not be provided by a cushion comprising an
inflated bladder. As with other design features disclosed in the
application, the columns 44 are but one design alternative and
should not be considered to be limiting in scope.
[0074] FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 12 illustrate a multi-purpose
adjustable exercise bench 60 having an instability cushion
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the
illustrated embodiment, multi-purpose exercise bench 60 includes a
first cushion 62a, a second cushion 62b and a third cushion
62c.
[0075] A longer support portion 64 comprises first cushion 62a and
second cushion 62b. The shorter support component 66 includes a
single cushion 62c. One or both of the longer support component 64
and shorter support component 66 can be adjusted to provide desired
configurations for exercise. A support pivot 68 is depicted.
Support pivot 68 allows one or both of longer support component 64
and shorter support component 66 to be adjusted to differing angles
to accommodate various types of exercise.
[0076] For example, the arcuate support members 70 and 72 include
selectively removable pin securement members 74 and 76. By removing
one or both of pins 74 and 76 and angling one or both of shorter
support component 66 and longer support component 64 about support
pivot 68, the user can change the configuration of the bench and
perform different exercise which may not be available on a simple
bench.
[0077] The multi-purpose adjustable exercise bench 60 is provided
for illustrative purposes to illustrate different functionality of
exercises benches that can be provided with instability cushions
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0078] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C and 14 illustrates an abdominal exercise
bench 65 having an instability cushion 70 according to one
embodiment of the present invention. The abdominal exercise
apparatus 65 provides apparatus for supporting a user's legs and
allowing the user to lie on the instability cushion or
alternatively the secondary cushion member 72. Various components
of the exercise bench are adjustable to provide varying exercise
parameters as desired by the user.
[0079] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate a preacher curl exercise machine
80 having an instability cushion according to one embodiment of the
present invention. In the embodiment, the seat comprises a seat
instability cushion 82. Further arm/elbow rests comprise arm
instability cushions 84. Various components of the machine 80 are
adjustable to provide a desired configuration of the machine 80 and
for users of different heights. The preacher curl exercise machine
80 includes the seat instability cushion 82, a chest instability
cushion 86 and two elbow instability cushion 84.
[0080] FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C and 18 illustrate a chair bench exercise
machine having a back instability cushion 90 for sitting and a back
instability cushion 92 for a back rest according to one embodiment
of the present invention. Thus, the seat and back rest comprise
instability cushions for conducting various exercises.
[0081] FIG. 19A-D illustrates one embodiment of an instability
cushion 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
An outer lip runs around the perimeter of the resilient bladder of
the upper cushion 104 forming the outside surface of the cushion.
The upper cushion 104 provides an instability component. On the
underside a grid pattern is provided to form a textured surface
which minimizes slipping during exercise.
* * * * *