U.S. patent application number 13/270578 was filed with the patent office on 2013-04-11 for exercise equipment.
The applicant listed for this patent is Broc Jackson. Invention is credited to Broc Jackson.
Application Number | 20130090216 13/270578 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48042440 |
Filed Date | 2013-04-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130090216 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jackson; Broc |
April 11, 2013 |
EXERCISE EQUIPMENT
Abstract
An exercise device includes: a step housing structured to
support the weight of a user; one or more cables at least partially
contained within the step housing; a variable resistance mechanism
controlling resistance applied to the one or more cables; and a
panel comprising a substantially planar member with a first broad
face, the substantially planar member attached to the housing, the
panel having a deployed position in which the first broad face of
the panel is spaced apart from the housing.
Inventors: |
Jackson; Broc; (Newton,
MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Jackson; Broc |
Newton |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48042440 |
Appl. No.: |
13/270578 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/09 20130101;
A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 21/4031 20151001;
A63B 2225/093 20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 21/018
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/52 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/04 20060101
A63B022/04 |
Claims
1. An exercise device comprising: a step housing structured to
support the weight of a user; one or more cables at least partially
contained within the step housing; a variable resistance mechanism
controlling resistance applied to the one or more cables; and a
panel comprising a substantially planar member with a first broad
face, the substantially planar member attached to the housing, the
panel having a deployed position in which the first broad face of
the panel is spaced apart from the housing.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the one or more panels
are disposed substantially flat along a plane parallel to a top or
bottom surface of the step housing when the panel is in the
deployed position.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one
or more panels is disposed at an angle of 70 degrees to 110 degrees
from a top surface of the step housing to position a top surface of
the step housing at a non-parallel angle with respect to a ground
surface when the panels are in the deployed position.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the device includes at
least two panels and a first of the at least two panels is disposed
on a first side of the step housing and a second of the at least
two panels is disposed on a second side of the step housing,
disposed at an angle of 70 degrees to 110 degrees from a top
surface of the step housing to position a top surface of the step
housing at an elevated height position that is substantially
parallel to its original position when the panels are in the
deployed position.
5. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a carrying
handle attached to the step housing.
6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the variable resistance
mechanism includes one or more rotating devices to apply resistance
to the cables.
7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the variable resistance
mechanism applies 0 to 15 lbs of resistive force to the one or more
cables.
8. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a resistance
selector connected to the variable resistance mechanism to change
the resistive force applied to the one or more cables.
9. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the variable resistance
mechanism applies different amounts resistive forces to different
cables.
10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the one or more cables
pass through openings on a top surface of the step housing.
11. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a
translating mechanism to elevate a top surface of the step
housing.
12. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the step housing and
the panel comprise an anti-slip surface.
13. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the one or more cables
include cable handles.
14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein multiple cables are
connected to one cable handle.
15. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the step housing
comprises recessed portions to receive the one or more cables.
16. The exercise device of claim 15, further comprising cable
retaining mechanisms to secure the cable to inside the recessed
portions.
17. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a closure
mechanism to secure the panel to the step housing.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention relates to sporting equipment, and more
particularly to exercise equipment.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A number of exercise devices are currently used by a wide
range of users for a variety of intended results. Conventional
exercise methods practiced to obtain a full body workout typically
involve using multiple devices to perform multiple exercises. In
order to use such a variety of devices to obtain a full body
workout, users generally incur large investment expenses or pay
high membership fees to gyms.
SUMMARY
[0003] In some aspects, exercise devices include: a step housing
structured to support the weight of a user; one or more cables at
least partially contained within the step housing; a variable
resistance mechanism controlling resistance applied to the one or
more cables; and a panel comprising a substantially planar member
with a first broad face, the substantially planar member attached
to the housing, the panel having a deployed position in which the
first broad face of the panel is spaced apart from the housing.
Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.
[0004] In some embodiments, the one or more panels are disposed
substantially flat along a plane parallel to a top or bottom
surface of the step housing when the panel is in the deployed
position.
[0005] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more panels
is disposed at an angle of 70 degrees to 110 degrees from a top
surface of the step housing to position a top surface of the step
housing at a non-parallel angle with respect to a ground surface
when the panels are in the deployed position.
[0006] In some embodiments, the device includes at least two panels
and a first of the at least two panels is disposed on a first side
of the step housing and a second of the at least two panels is
disposed on a second side of the step housing, disposed at an angle
of 70 degrees to 110 degrees from a top surface of the step housing
to position a top surface of the step housing at an elevated height
position that is substantially parallel to its original position
when the panels are in the deployed position.
[0007] In some embodiments, devices also include a carrying handle
attached to the step housing.
[0008] In some embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism
includes one or more rotating devices to apply resistance to the
cables.
[0009] In some embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism
applies 0 to 15 lbs of resistive force to the one or more
cables.
[0010] In some embodiments, devices also include a resistance
selector connected to the variable resistance mechanism to change
the resistive force applied to the one or more cables.
[0011] In some embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism
applies different amounts resistive forces to different cables.
[0012] In some embodiments, the one or more cables pass through
openings on a top surface of the step housing.
[0013] In some embodiments, the device also includes a translating
mechanism to elevate a top surface of the step housing.
[0014] In some embodiments, the step housing and the panel comprise
an anti-slip surface.
[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more cables include cable
handles. In some cases, multiple cables are connected to one cable
handle.
[0016] In some embodiments, the step housing comprises recessed
portions to receive the one or more cables. In some cases, devices
also include cable retaining mechanisms to secure the cable to
inside the recessed portions.
[0017] In some embodiments, devices also include a closure
mechanism to secure the panel to the step housing.
[0018] In some embodiments, a resistance trainer as described can
provide a versatile piece of exercise equipment that can be compact
and easy to transport and store. The resistance trainer can include
features and mechanisms that allow a user to carry the resistance
trainer to various locations in a stowed state. Once in a desired
location, the resistance trainer can then be deployed for use to
perform a wide variety of exercises.
[0019] In some embodiments, the resistance trainer can reduce or
eliminate a user's need to purchase and main large amounts of
exercise equipment by providing the user with the ability to
perform many exercises with only one piece of equipment.
[0020] In some embodiments, the resistance trainer includes a mat
in the form of multiple panels that use the user's weight to hold
the device in place during use and to maintain contact with a
ground surface on which the device is used.
[0021] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of resistance
trainer in a deployed position.
[0023] FIG. 1B is a cutaway perspective view of the resistance
trainer of FIG. 1A.
[0024] FIG. 1C is a top view of the resistance trainer of FIG.
1A.
[0025] FIG. 1D is a cross sectional side view of the resistance
trainer of FIG. 1A.
[0026] FIG. 1E is a cross sectional front view of a step housing of
the resistance trainer of FIG. 1A.
[0027] FIG. 1F is a perspective view of the resistance trainer of
1A in a deployed position with the step housing in an elevated
position.
[0028] FIG. 1G is a cross sectional side view of the resistance
trainer of FIG. 1A with the step housing in an elevated
position.
[0029] FIG. 1H is a cross sectional front view of a step housing of
the resistance trainer of FIG. 1A with the step housing in an
elevated position.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a resistance trainer in a
deployed position.
[0031] FIG. 3 is a side view of a resistance trainer in an inclined
deployed position.
[0032] FIG. 4 is a side view of a resistance trainer in an elevated
deployed position.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a resistance trainer in a
stowed position.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a side view of a resistance trainer in a stowed
position.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a variable resistance
mechanism.
[0036] FIGS. 8A-8E are schematic views of exercises being performed
using examples of a resistance trainer.
[0037] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] A resistance trainer can provide a versatile piece of
exercise equipment that can be compact and easy to transport and
store. The resistance trainer can include features and mechanisms
that allow a user to carry the resistance trainer to various
locations in a stowed state. Once in a desired location, the
resistance trainer can then be deployed for use to perform a wide
variety of exercises.
[0039] The resistance trainer can reduce or eliminate a user's need
to purchase and main large amounts of exercise equipment by
providing the user with the ability to perform many exercises with
only one piece of equipment.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1H, a resistance trainer 21 includes a
step housing 23, one or more cables 25, a variable resistance
mechanism 27, and one or more panels 29.
Step Housing
[0041] The step housing 23 acts as a structural chassis for
mounting and protecting some of the other components (e.g., cables
25, variable resistance mechanism 27 and/or panels 29) of the
resistance trainer 21.
[0042] The step housing 23 is a multi-piece component having a base
23a and a step shell 23b. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
1F-1H, the step housing 23 includes a translating slide 23c that
allows the step shell 23b to slide up and down to an elevated
height and a step lock 23d that secures the step shell at the
elevated height. Other approaches are implemented in some
resistance trainers. In some embodiments, the translating slide 23c
includes various types of mechanical or electromechanical devices
such as slides, actuators (linear or rotational), gear systems,
leadscrew systems, or similar devices. However, not all step
housings 23 are multi-piece components including separate base 23a
and step shell 23b components. In some embodiments, the step
housing 23 is a single molded or machined component.
[0043] The size and shape of the step housing 23 can depend on the
targeted end user's requirements. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1H, the step
housing 23 is substantially rectangular shaped, and approximately
40 to 50 inches (e.g., 46 inches) wide, 4 to 10 inches (e.g., 5
inches) high, and 10 to 20 inches (e.g., 15 inches) deep. The step
housing can be expected to support a wide range of users and can
typically support the weight of a user ranging up to 250 lbs during
use. In some embodiments, the step housing is larger or smaller
than the illustrated embodiment. In some embodiments, the step
housing is 15 to 60 inches (e.g., 30 inches) wide, 1 to 20 inches
(e.g., 3 inches) high, and 6 to 30 inches (e.g., 12 inches)
deep
[0044] In some embodiments, the step housing 23 is formed to have
an outer profile shape substantially similar to a suitcase on at
least one side, such that if carried by a user, the resistance
trainer could be carried without undue levels of effort and/or
discomfort.
[0045] The step housing 23 can be formed by various material
forming processes (e.g., molding, machining, and welding) using
various materials. In the illustrated embodiment, the step housing
base 23a is made of metal materials and the step shell 23b is made
of plastic materials. In some embodiments, the step housing is made
of other materials such as plastics (e.g., thermoset or
thermoplastics), metal materials (e.g., aluminum alloys or steels),
composite materials (e.g., fiberglass or carbon fiber), or a
combination of such materials.
[0046] Since users sometimes stand on the step housing 23 during
use, the step housing 23 can include features or properties to
decrease the likelihood that a user could slip on the step housing
23 during use. The illustrated embodiment includes non-skid tape
applied to upper surfaces of the step housing 23. Some embodiments
include certain 3-dimentional surface profiles applied to the step
housing such as a waffle surface, diamond plate-style surfaces, or
the surface can have ridges or similar features and/or
slip-resistant surface coatings such as a rubberized surface or a
slip-resistant sand paper-type type surface. However, not all step
housings include such slip-resistant features and/or materials.
[0047] The step housing 23 includes a retractable carrying handle
31 attached to one of the outer surfaces of the step housing 23. In
the illustrated embodiment, the carrying handle 31 is attached to
the step housing 23 by hinges and the step housing defines a
recessed portion in which the carrying handle 31 is stored (e.g.,
folded down into) during use of the resistance trainer. In some
embodiments, the carrying handle 31 is attached to the step housing
23 using others devices such as, for example, slide mechanisms.
Although the illustrated embodiment includes a carry handle 31, not
all resistance trainers 21 include a carrying handle 31.
[0048] As discussed in greater detail below, the cables 25 and the
variable resistance mechanism 27 are housed inside of the step
housing 23, and the step housing 23 includes holes through its top
surface to allow the cables 25 to pass through during use. Holes
are positioned on the top surface of the step shell 23b so that the
step shell 23b can be elevated from the base 23a without having to
reposition the cables 25 exiting the step housing 23 due to cable
interference.
[0049] As shown, the step housing 23 includes recessed portions 33
to accept or to provide storage regions for cable handles 35 that
are attached to the cables 25. The recessed portions 33 are
positioned near, or extending into the holes disposed along step
housing surfaces through which cables 25 pass. In some embodiments,
the step housing 23 includes one or more handle retaining
mechanisms, such as clips or folding/sliding doors that conceal,
partially cover, or otherwise prevent the cable handles 35 from
being inadvertently pulled from the step housing 23 while the
resistance trainer is not in use. Alternatively, using handle
retaining mechanisms, a portion of the cable handles 35 (e.g., one
cable 25 and cable handle 35 of a resistance trainer having two
sets of cables and handle) can be secured during use to perform
particular exercises where it can be desired to pull only one cable
(e.g., a one arm curl or a leg extension).
[0050] As discussed above, the resistance trainer 21 has a compact,
stowed state that increases the ease with which a user can carry or
store the resistance trainer. In the stowed state, as shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6, panels 29 are in a stowed position that can
typically be defined as a position in which a broad face of a panel
is positioned along a surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the
step housing. Then when a user is ready to use the resistance
trainer 21, it can be deployed to a deployed state for use. In the
deployed state, panels 29 are in one or more deployed positions
that can typically be defined as a position in which the broad
faces of the panel is spaced apart from the step housing.
Deployment Mechanism
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1A, in a deployed state, the resistance
trainer 21 has two panels 29 deployed to provide a standing and/or
seating surface on which the user can perform various exercises. In
order to move, rotate, and/or translate the panels 29 from a stowed
state to a deployed state, the resistance trainer 21 includes a
deployment mechanism 37. In the illustrated embodiment, the
deployment mechanism 37 includes multiple hinges that connect the
panels 29 to each other and to connect the panels 29 to the step
housing 23. The hinges and/or panels 29 include features that
prevent the hinges from rotating beyond the desired deployed
position (e.g., such features allow a user to stand or sit on a
panel 29 and pull on the cables without lifting the step housing 23
or another panel 29 off of the ground).
[0052] The deployment mechanism 37 can be of various types
depending on several factors such as the size of the resistance
trainer, the types of materials chosen for the step housing 23 or
the panels 29, the number of panels 29 included, and the types of
exercises desired by a user (e.g., the deployment mechanism can
influence the types of positions in which the resistance trainer
can be used). In some embodiments, the deployment mechanism 37
includes one or more of several types of devices to deploy panels
such as hinges (e.g., standard rotating hinges or accordion style
hinges), slide devices, actuator devices, cam devices, or a
combination of multiple types of devices.
[0053] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the resistance
trainer 21 includes more than one panel 29 (e.g., two panels 29 on
each side of the step housing 23) to provide the user with greater
options of exercises to perform. In such embodiments, the
resistance trainer 21 includes one deployment mechanisms 37 to
deploy the multiple panels 29 (e.g., one hinge, slide, or similar
mechanism used to deploy all of the appropriate panels for the
exercise). Alternatively, some embodiments include individual
deployment mechanisms 37 for each panel 29 included in the
resistance trainer 21 (e.g., each panel is attached to an
individual hinge or slide).
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the panels 29 are deployed by
a user manually by unfolding the panels 29 from underneath the step
housing 23. In some embodiments, the deployment mechanism 37 is
operated by mechanical means (e.g., a mechanical release button or
lever) or by electromechanical means (e.g., an electrical switch)
that release the deployment mechanism 37 to move the panels from
the stowed position to the deployed position.
[0055] To facilitate the set-up, the deployment mechanism 37 of
some resistance trainers 21 is designed such that the resistance
trainer 21 can be placed on a ground surface and automatically
deployed the appropriate panel configuration needed for the user to
perform a desired exercise (i.e., instead of the user having lift
or turn over the resistance trainer to manually deploy the panels
and then place the resistance trainer in the location of use).
[0056] In addition to deploying all of the panels 29 at once as
described above, in some embodiments, the resistance trainer 21 is
designed such a user can selective deploy one or more particular
panels 29 needed to perform particular exercises. Such selective
deployment of panels 29 can also be used in environments where the
user does not have ample floor space to deploy all of the panels
29, but would still like to use the resistance trainer 21 for
perform some exercises.
[0057] Although FIGS. 1A-1H show the panels 29 deployed straight
outward from the resistance trainer 21 (e.g., along the same plane
as the bottom surface of the step housing), other deployed
positions are possible. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in some
embodiments, the panels 29 are deployed to multiple positions
relative to the step housing 23 (e.g., pointed downward
perpendicular from the bottom surface of the step housing or at a
non-perpendicular or parallel angle from the bottom surface of the
step housing), as will be discussed in greater detail below with
regards to FIGS. 3 and 4. In such embodiments, the deployment
mechanism 37 has features to lock or secure the panels 29 in
various deployed positions.
Panels
[0058] As discussed above, the resistance trainer 21 includes
panels 29 that are deployed to provide a platform for a user. The
panels 29 are broad members made of, for example, as plastics
(e.g., thermoset and thermoplastics). In some embodiments, panels
are made of various other materials, metal materials (e.g.,
aluminum alloys, steels), composite materials (e.g., fiberglass or
carbon fiber), or a combination of such materials.
[0059] Similar to the surface of the step housing 23, the panels 29
provide a standing and/or seating surface for a user and therefore
include features or properties to decrease the likelihood that a
user could slip during use. The illustrated embodiment includes
non-skid tape applied to upper surfaces of the panels 29. Some
embodiments include certain 3-dimentional surface profiles applied
to the panels 29, such as a waffle-like surface, diamond
plate-style surfaces, or the surface can have ridges or similar
features and/or slip-resistant surface coatings such as a
rubberized surface, a slip resistance sand paper-type type surface.
However, not all panels include such features.
[0060] The bottom surface of the panels 29 (e.g., the surface that
is typically in contact with a ground surface during use) also
includes slip-resistant features in the form of non-skid tape. Such
features ensure that when a user stands on a panel 29, the panel 29
typically does not substantially move or slide around during use.
However, some embodiments do not include a surface treatment on the
lower side of the panels 29 and the user's weight provides
sufficient force to prevent sliding of the panels 29.
[0061] As discussed above, the panels 29 are stowed for various
reasons (e.g., to make the resistance trainer easier to transport
and/or store). Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more of the
panels 29 includes a closure mechanism 45 to secure the panels 29
to each other, and in some cases to secure the panels 29 to the
step housing 23 while the panels 29 are in a stowed position. The
closure mechanism 45 can include, for example, a magnetic or
mechanical clamp in or attached to the end panel 29 and operable to
secure the panels 29 to the step housing 23. In some embodiments,
the closure mechanism 45 includes various types of devices, such as
clasps, latches, magnetic contacts, or similar devices.
[0062] As discussed above with regards to the deployment mechanism
37, in some embodiments, the panels 29 include features to prevent
panels 29 from rotating or extending beyond desired deployed
positions. In some deployed positions the step housing 23 and some
of the panels 29 can be elevated from the ground surface (e.g., in
an inclined deployed position), and thus the panels include
additional support to maintain correct alignment for a particular
deployed position. For example, in embodiments where the panels 29
are connected with hinges, features such as recessed portion or
overlapping panel portions can be included to provide force from
one panel to an adjacent panel to keep the panels substantially
flat along a common plane. In some embodiments, the panels do not
include such features and the deployment mechanism 37 holds the
panels 29 and step housing 23 in the desired deployed position
without additional features included on the panels 29.
Cables
[0063] To perform various exercises, the resistance trainer 21
includes two cables 25 that provide resistance when pulled by a
user. Some embodiments include more of fewer cables (e.g., one,
three, four, etc.), depending on the intended use and the possible
exercises desired. Depending on the use requirements, the cables 25
can include many different types of materials. In the illustrated
embodiment, the cables are connected to the variable resistance
device 27.
[0064] In some embodiments, the cables include other materials that
do not substantially stretch when pulled during exercise use (e.g.,
metal cables, PVC or plastic coated metal cables, ropes, cords, or
similar cables) that are used in the same manner discussed above
(e.g., the cable are attached to a variable resistance
mechanism).
[0065] Some embodiments include cables that substantially stretch
when pulled during exercise use (e.g., resistance exercise stretch
cables, bungee cord, or similar cable types) that are mounted to a
fixed position within the step housing. In such embodiments, the
user can pull on the cables 25 to feel resistance from the cables
throughout the range of motion of the exercise instead of utilizing
a variable resistance mechanism.
Cable Handles
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1H, the resistance trainer 21 include
cable handles 35 in the form of D-shaped handles that are attached
to the cables 25 to allow a user to grip and pull each cable 25
with one hand. The D-shaped handles 35 are foam-covered plastic
handles.
[0067] Since the resistance trainer 21 can typically be used to
perform many types of exercises (e.g., leg exercise, core
exercises, and/or arms/upper body exercises) using one or more
combinations of limbs (e.g., one hand, one leg, two hands, or
similar combination), the resistance trainer 21 can include other
types of cable handles 35 to permit a user to perform the various
exercises. Handles to be typically gripped by one hand include a
round handle, a rectangular handle, a D-shaped handle, or a similar
handle. Handles to be typically gripped by two hands include a
machine bar, a double D-shaped handle, a tricep pressdown bar, a
tricep rope, a pro-style bar, or similar handles. Handles to
typically receive a user's foot during leg exercises include
handles in the form of nylon straps, D-shaped loops for feet, or
similar handles.
[0068] Although the cable handles 35 in the illustrated embodiment
are permanently attached to the cables 25, in some embodiments, the
cable handles 35 are temporarily attached to the cable 25 to
perform exercises and then changed to attach a different type of
cable handle 35 to the cable 25 to perform a different type of the
exercise. To temporarily attach the cable handles 35 to the cables
25, the cables 25 and/or the cable handles 35 include attachment
mechanisms (e.g., latches or carabiners-type devices) to which
different cable handles 35 can be attached at different times.
[0069] To provide additional versatility during use, in some
embodiments, a cable handle 35 attaches to more than one cable 25
so that during use the user can utilize the resistance of both
cables during an exercise.
Variable Resistance Mechanism
[0070] To allow a user to apply different levels of resistance to
the cables 25 during use, the variable resistance mechanism 27 is
provided with the resistance trainer 21. The variable resistance
mechanism 27 is positioned within the step housing 23 and has
connections to which the cables 25 are attached. As shown in FIG.
7, the variable resistance mechanism 27 is in the form of two
flywheels 39 positioned inside the step housing 23. Each flywheel
is mounted to an axle or pivot 41 and includes a surface around
which a cable 25 is wound.
[0071] Each flywheel includes a re-coil mechanism 43 so that when
the cable 25 is released by a user, the flywheel 39 rotates to wind
the cable 25 around the flywheel 39. To rotate the flywheel and
retract the cable, the re-coil mechanism 43 includes resilient
members.
[0072] The variable resistance mechanism 27 includes a resistance
selector 47 used to adjust the resistance provided to the cables 27
by the variable resistance mechanism. In the illustrated
embodiment, the resistance selector 47 has 10 settings that can
provide up to 15 pounds of resistive forces to the cables when
pulled. In some embodiments, the resistance to the cables 25 is
adjusted using various devices such as variable spring devices
connected to the flywheels 39 and/or the re-coil mechanisms 27 to
vary the torque required to rotate the flywheel 39 and/or the
re-coil mechanisms 27 during use. In some embodiments, the
resistance to the cables is adjusted using several mechanical means
(e.g., gears, adjustable spring, or other devices) or
electromechanical means (e.g., electromagnetic motors).
[0073] The degree of adjustment and number of different resistance
levels included by the variable resistance mechanism 27 can depend
on the intended use. In some embodiments, the variable resistance
mechanism 27 has a discrete number of different resistance
settings, such as a high resistance setting and a low resistance
setting or a number of different settings (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,
8, 9, 10, etc. settings) that provide increasing amounts of
resistance. In other embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism
27 includes a continuous range of resistance settings. In some
cases, different resistance settings are associated with particular
weights (e.g., to simulate lifting a certain weight).
[0074] In some embodiments, the flywheels 39 included in the
resistance trainer 21 are operated independent from each other to
provide a user with greater control over desired exercises. In some
embodiments, independently operating flywheels 39 have separate
resistance selectors 47 such that a cable 25 connected to one
flywheel 39 can have a different resistive force than a cable 25
connected to another flywheel 39.
[0075] In some embodiments, flywheels 39 are connected or linked
together such that the same force is applied to the cables 25
connected to each of the flywheels 39 and the cables 25 travel the
same distance when pulled.
[0076] Alternatively or in addition to using flywheels 39, in some
embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism includes a system of
different sized pulleys (e.g., to apply different levels of
resistance) around which the cables travel to rotate the pulleys.
In such embodiments, the variable resistance mechanism 27 includes
a device to move a cable from one pulley to another pulley, such as
derailleur-type device.
Different Deployment Positions
[0077] FIG. 3 shows an example of a resistance trainer 21 in an
inclined deployed position. As shown, panels 29 on one side of the
step housing 23 are deployed outward laterally from the step
housing 23 such that the panels are substantially co-planar with a
top and/or bottom surface of the step housing. The panels 29 on the
other side step housing 23 are deployed downward from the step
housing 23 such that they are substantially perpendicular to either
the top surface of the step housing or a ground surface and
therefore the resistance trainer 21 is positioned at an incline
with respect to the ground surface.
[0078] FIG. 4 shows the resistance trainer 21 deployed in an
elevated position. As shown, panels 29 on both sides of the step
housing 23 are deployed downward, away from a bottom surface of the
step housing (e.g., to be substantially perpendicular to a top
surface of the step housing) to elevate the step housing 23 from a
ground surface.
[0079] FIGS. 5 and 6 show the resistance trainer 21 in a stowed
position. In the stowed position, panels 29 are retracted so that
the resistance trainer 21 can be carried and/or stored more easily
by a user. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, in a stowed
position, panels 29 fold to overlap one another (e.g., a broad face
of one panel is in contact with a broad face of another panel). In
embodiments where the resistance trainer 21 includes smaller panels
29, in a stowed position, panels 29 are folded inward from both
sides of the step housing 23 to be positioned end to end from one
another.
[0080] For added transportation capabilities, in some embodiments,
the resistance trainer 21 with the panels in a stowed position is
sized appropriately to meet various requirements to be brought onto
an airplane, such as "carry-on" luggage size requirements (e.g.,
the current maximum size carry-on bag for most airlines is 45
linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag
cannot exceed 45 inches)).
[0081] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the resistance
trainer 21 includes a closure mechanism 45 to secure the panels 29
to the step housing 23 when in a stowed position.
Exemplary Exercises
[0082] FIGS. 8A-8E show several examples of exercises that can be
performed using the resistance trainer. Due to the wide variety of
components and features included in different embodiments of the
resistance trainer (e.g., the number of panels included and the way
in which they can be deployed), many different types of exercises
can be performed using the resistance trainer.
[0083] FIG. 8A shows a schematic view of a user 49 performing a
chest fly exercise. While performing such an exercise, the user 49
stands on one or more deployed panels 29 with their back facing the
step housing 23 and pull the cables 25 forward. As discussed above,
in some embodiments, the user 49 need not stand directly on the
step housing 23 during use to keep the step housing 23 in place
during use.
[0084] FIG. 8B shows a schematic view of a user 49 performing a
lunge curl exercise. While performing such an exercise, the user 49
stands with one foot on a deployed panel 29 and the other foot on
the step housing 23 and simulate walking lunge motions while
pulling on the cables 25.
[0085] FIG. 8C shows a schematic view of a user 49 performing a
straddle squat exercise. While performing such an exercise, the
user 49 stands with one foot on a deployed panel 29 on one side of
the step housing 23 and the other foot on a deployed panel 29 on
the other side of the step housing 23. To perform the exercise, the
user 49 squats down to grab one or both cables 25 between their
legs stand upward to pull the cables 25.
[0086] FIG. 8D shows a schematic view of a user 49 performing a
seated row exercise. During such an exercise the user 49 sits on a
deployed panel 29 and places their feet on the step housing 23
and/or another panel 29 connected to the step housing 23. To
perform the exercise, the user 49 leans forward to grab cables 25
and lean backward while pulling the cables 25.
[0087] FIG. 8E shows a schematic view of a user 49 performing a
wood chop exercise. To perform such an exercise, the user 49 stands
with one foot on a first deployed panel 29 connected to the step
housing 23 and the other foot on a second deployed panel 29
extending from the first panel 29, such that the step housing 23 is
to the user's side. The user then rotates their upper body toward
the step housing 23 to grasp a cable handle 25 and rotates their
upper body away from the step housing 23 (e.g., to simulate the
motion of chopping wood).
[0088] It is to be understood that while the invention has been
described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the
foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the
scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the
appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are
within the scope of the following claims
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