U.S. patent application number 13/673809 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-16 for adjustable abdominal exercise apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to ICON IP, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is ICON IP, INC.. Invention is credited to Travis Sip.
Application Number | 20130123083 13/673809 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46671677 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130123083 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sip; Travis |
May 16, 2013 |
ADJUSTABLE ABDOMINAL EXERCISE APPARATUS
Abstract
An abdominal exercise device includes a support structure, a
track movable relative to the support structure, a body support
member movable relative to the support structure and track, and an
adjustable base secured to the support structure. A locking
mechanism attaches to the track, and selectively secures the track
at a fixed orientation relative to the support structure. In a
first state, the locking mechanism restricts the track from
rotating relative to the support structure. In a second state, the
locking mechanism allows the track to rotate relative to the
support structure. In using the exercise device, the user may
obtain any of three motions. A first motion is provided by sliding
the body support member along the track. A second motion is
provided by rotating the track relative to the support structure. A
third motion is a combined motion in which the body support slides
along the track and the track rotates relative to the support
structure. The resistance of each of the three motions may be
varied by selectively varying the Sip Factor of the system.
Inventors: |
Sip; Travis; (Plain City,
UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ICON IP, INC.; |
Logan |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ICON IP, INC.
Logan
UT
|
Family ID: |
46671677 |
Appl. No.: |
13/673809 |
Filed: |
November 9, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61558924 |
Nov 11, 2011 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/145 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/0222
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/145 |
International
Class: |
A63B 23/02 20060101
A63B023/02 |
Claims
1. An exercise device, comprising: a support structure; a track
secured relative to the support structure, the track having an axis
of rotation about which the track is configured to selectively
rotate; a body support member movable along and supported at least
partially by the track; and a vertically adjustable base secured to
the support structure.
2. The exercise device recited in claim 1, further comprising: a
first foot support attached to said adjustable base; and a second
foot support attached to said adjustable base; wherein at least one
of said first foot support and said second foot support is
vertically adjustable.
3. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein said exercise
device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between 1.0 and
0.25.
4. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein said exercise
device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between 0.98 and
0.86.
5. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein said exercise
device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between 1.0 and
0.98.
6. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein said exercise
device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between 0.86 and
0.5.
7. The exercise device recited in claim 2, further comprising: a
manual actuator secured to at least one of said first foot support
or said second foot support; wherein said manual actuator is
configured to vertically adjust said at least one of said first
foot support or said second foot support.
8. The exercise device recited in claim 1, further comprising one
of a manual actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator,
or an electrical actuator secured to said adjustable base.
9. The exercise device recited in claim 1, further comprising: a
locking mechanism, the locking mechanism being at least selectively
secured to the track, wherein the locking mechanism has an engaged
state and a disengaged state.
10. The exercise device recited in claim 9, wherein: in the engaged
state, the locking mechanism substantially restricts the track from
rotating about the axis of rotation; and in the disengaged state,
the track is selectively rotatable about the axis of rotation.
11. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein the track is
pivotally secured to the support structure.
12. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein the track
defines an arcuate translation path for the body support
member.
13. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein the axis of
rotation is about centered along a length of the track.
14. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein the track
defines a first path, and rotation of the track about the axis of
rotation defines a second path, and wherein at least a third path
is defined which combines the first and second paths.
15. The exercise device recited in claim 1, wherein the track
defines a path such that the axis of rotation of the track extends
in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the path
defined by the track, and substantially tangential to an arc
defined by rotation of the track about the axis of rotation.
16. An exercise device, comprising: a support structure; an arcuate
track pivotally secured relative to the support structure, the
track having an axis of rotation about which the track is
configured to selectively rotate; a body support member movable
along and supported at least partially by the track; and a
vertically adjustable base secured to the support structure, said
vertically adjustable base including a first foot support attached
to said adjustable base, and a second foot support attached to said
adjustable base, wherein at least one of said first foot support
and said second foot support is vertically adjustable; wherein said
exercise device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between
1.0 and 0.25.
17. The exercise device recited in claim 16, further comprising an
actuator secured to at least one of said first foot support or said
second foot support; wherein said actuator is configured to
vertically adjust said at least one of said first foot support or
said second foot support.
18. The exercise device recited in claim 17, wherein said actuator
comprises one of a manual actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a
pneumatic actuator, or an electrical actuator.
19. The exercise device recited in claim 16, further comprising: a
locking mechanism, the locking mechanism being at least selectively
secured to the track, wherein the locking mechanism has an engaged
state and a disengaged state; wherein in the engaged state, the
locking mechanism substantially restricts the track from rotating
about the axis of rotation, and in the disengaged state, the track
is selectively rotatable about the axis of rotation.
20. An exercise device, comprising: a support structure; an arcuate
track pivotally secured relative to the support structure, the
track having an axis of rotation about which the track is
configured to selectively rotate; a body support member movable
along and supported at least partially by the track; a vertically
adjustable base secured to the support structure, said vertically
adjustable base including a first foot support attached to said
adjustable base, a second foot support attached to said adjustable
base, and an actuator secured to at least one of said first foot
support or said second foot support, wherein said actuator is
configured to vertically adjust said at least one of said first
foot support or said second foot support; and a locking mechanism,
the locking mechanism being at least selectively secured to the
track, wherein the locking mechanism has an engaged state and a
disengaged state; wherein in the engaged state, the locking
mechanism substantially restricts the track from rotating about the
axis of rotation, and in the disengaged state, the track is
selectively rotatable about the axis of rotation; wherein said
exercise device has a Sip Factor configuration selectable between
1.0 and 0.25.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This utility application is a nonprovisional patent
application that claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 61/558,924 filed Nov. 11, 2011.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and
methods for exercising. More particularly, the present disclosure
relates to systems and methods for exercising abdominal
muscles.
BACKGROUND
[0003] As part of a healthy lifestyle, physicians and other health
and fitness professionals are advising people to make exercise a
part of their daily routine. A comprehensive fitness plan may
include both cardiovascular and strength training or
resistance-based regimens, and can target a number of different
muscle groups. Increasingly, fitness professionals are advising
people to develop a well-defined and strengthened "core," not only
because the appearance of a tight stomach is considered desirable,
but because a healthy core also promotes overall health and
wellness.
[0004] Historically, exercises used to strengthen the core muscles
and develop a tight stomach have been range of motion exercises
that do not utilize a machine. In the case of both sit-ups and
crunches, care must be taken to perform the exercise properly, or
the person risks injury. Fitness equipment has also been developed
to target the abdominal muscles. For instance, fitness centers and
gyms offer a variety of exercise devices that can target the core,
and may reduce the risk of injury to users. Unfortunately, such
machines are often large and difficult to operate. Thus, such
machines are often ineffective or impractical for personal home
use.
[0005] One proposed solution for making core training equipment
accessible is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,611,445 to "Brown," and
which is commercially available under the AB COASTER name. Brown
discloses an exercise machine that purports to "work the abdominal
and oblique muscle groups and isolate the upper and lower abdominal
muscles in a biometrically neutral position." In particular, the
exercise device described in Brown includes front and rear supports
with a track extending therebetween. An upper body support is
attached to the front support and a sled that includes a knee pad
slides along the track. The track may be arcuate in shape.
[0006] In addition, other abdominal or other exercise devices
include those in U.S. Pat. No. 7,232,404, U.S. Pat. No. 7,455,633,
U.S. Pat. No. 7,485,079, U.S. Pat. No. 7,585,263, U.S. Pat. No.
7,611,445, U.S. Pat. No. 7,651,446, U.S. Pat. No. 7,662,076, U.S.
Pat. No. 7,731,637, U.S. Pat. No. D598,965, and U.S. Patent
Publication No. 2007/0259760, as well as exercise devices sold
under the trade names "AB CIRCLE PRO" and "AB CIRCLE MINI."
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an exercise device
is provided, and may be used for exercising abdominal or other
muscle groups. The abdominal exercise device may include a support
structure, a track that is movable relative to the support
structure, a body support that moves along a length of the track,
and an adjustable base secured to the support structure.
[0008] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track is rotatable relative
to a support structure.
[0009] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track is elongate.
[0010] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track is arcuate.
[0011] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track is inclined relative
to the support structure.
[0012] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the body support is slide ably
disposed relative to the track.
[0013] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device includes a
first and second foot support attached to the adjustable base.
[0014] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, at least one of the foot
supports is vertically adjustable.
[0015] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device has a Sip
Factor configuration selectable between 1.0 and 0.25.
[0016] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device has a Sip
Factor configuration selectable between 0.98 and 0.86.
[0017] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device has a Sip
Factor configuration selectable between 1.0 and 0.98.
[0018] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device has a Sip
Factor configuration selectable between 0.86 and 0.5.
[0019] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device includes a
manual actuator secured to at least one of the first or second foot
support.
[0020] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the manual actuator is
configured to vertically adjust at least one of the first or second
foot support.
[0021] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, the exercise device includes a
manual actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or an
electrical actuator secured to the adjustable base.
[0022] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, an exercise device includes
one or more locking mechanisms.
[0023] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism
selectively secures a track at a fixed position or orientation
relative to a support structure.
[0024] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism has an
engaged state and a disengaged state.
[0025] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism in an
engaged state restricts rotational or other movement of a track
relative to a support structure, and in a disengaged state allows
the track to rotate or otherwise move relative to the support
structure.
[0026] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism includes a
pin for securing the track relative to the support structure.
[0027] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track of an exercise device
has at least two configurations.
[0028] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track in a first
configuration is linked to a body support that, when moving,
changes its position relative to a support structure and the
track.
[0029] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track in a second
configuration is linked to a body support that, when moving,
changes its position relative to a support structure but is
optionally at a constant position relative to the track.
[0030] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a track in a second
configuration is linked to a body support that, when moved during
exercise by a user, can be either purely rotational relative to the
support structure or a combination of rotational and translational
movement relative to the support structure.
[0031] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a body support member has
three available motions, including a purely translational motion, a
purely rotational motion, and a motion that combines the
translational and rotational motions.
[0032] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, an exercise device includes a
means for selectively moving a track relative to a support
structure.
[0033] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a means for selectively moving
a track relative to a support structure includes any combination of
one or more locking mechanisms, handles, or a body support.
[0034] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism is
disposed at an end of a track.
[0035] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a locking mechanism is
proximate a mount at which a track is connected to a support
structure.
[0036] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, an axis of rotation of a track
is about perpendicular to the track.
[0037] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, an axis of rotation of a track
is about tangential to an arc defined by rotation of the track
about the axis of rotation.
[0038] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a method for exercising may
include moving a body support member along a track.
[0039] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, sliding a body support member
along a track may include sliding a body support member so as to
translate the body support member relative to the track and a
support structure supporting the track.
[0040] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a method for exercising may
include rotating a track relative to a support structure.
[0041] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a method for exercising may
include rotating a track relative to a support structure while also
sliding a body support member along a length of the track.
[0042] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, a method for changing a
configuration of an abdominal exercise machine may include
selectively engaging or disengaging a locking mechanism.
[0043] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, engaging a locking mechanism
may include, or result in, restricting rotational movement of a
track relative to a support structure.
[0044] In accordance with an aspect that may be combined with
anyone or more other aspects herein, disengaging a locking
mechanism may include, or result in, releasing a track from a
locked position so as to enable the track to rotate relative to a
support structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] FIG. 1A is a side view of an exercise device in a low Sip
Factor configuration according to one embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0046] FIG. 1B is a side view of an exercise device in an elevated
Sip Factor configuration according to one embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0047] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the exercise device of FIG.
1A in a low Sip Factor configuration;
[0048] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the exercise device of FIG.
1B in an elevated Sip Factor configuration;
[0049] FIG. 3A is a partial perspective view of the exercise device
of FIGS. 1A through 2B, and illustrates a locking mechanism in an
engaged state;
[0050] FIG. 3B is a partial perspective view of the exercise device
of FIGS. 1A through 2B, and illustrates a locking mechanism in a
disengaged state;
[0051] FIG. 4 is an overhead view of the exercise device of FIG.
1A, the exercise device having a rotatable track;
[0052] FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views of the exercise device
of FIG. 1A, in use by a user to rotate a track and translate a body
support member along the track;
[0053] FIG. 6 illustrates an exercise device according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise device providing
at least three motions;
[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates an exercise device according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise device having a
rotatable track; and
[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates an exercise device having a track and a
slideable body support member, the body track being capable of
translating and rotating;
[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of
an adjustable orientation support;
[0057] FIG. 10 illustrates the exercise device of FIG. 1A in a low
position and further illustrates the Sip factor calculation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0058] As used in the present specification, and the appended
claims, the term "Sip Factor" shall be interpreted broadly as
referring to the cosine of the angular of the track assembly of a
sliding core training apparatus relative to the surface it is on.
The Sip Factor is determined from the point that a line defined by
the two end points of the track intersects a datum plane formed by
the points of contact between the base of the sliding core training
apparatus and the surface it is disposed on. In the event of a line
defined by the two end points of the track that is parallel with
the datum plane formed by the points of contact between the base of
the sliding core training apparatus and the surface it is disposed
on, the Sip Factor shall be 1.
[0059] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, an exercise
device 100 having an adjustable Sip Factor includes a support
structure 102 and a track 104 secured relative to the support
structure 102. The exercise device 100 also includes a body support
member 106 configured to support a body of a user and selectively
move relative to the track 104. The support structure 102, track
104, and body support member 106 may have number of suitable
configurations, shapes, components, or other features, or
combinations of the foregoing. For instance, according to one
aspect, the body support member 106 may be a sled adapted to
operate as a knee pad or leg support.
[0060] The support structure 102 may have any number of suitable
configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, for instance, the
support structure 102 is configured to support the track 104 and
maintain the track 104 in an elevated position relative to a
surface on which the support structure 102 rests. For instance, the
support structure 102 may be placed on a floor or ground surface
and cause the track 104 to remain elevated relative to the
floor.
[0061] The distance between the track 104 and the surface on which
the support structure 102 rests varies across a length of the track
104. For instance, in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the track 104 may have first
and second ends 108, 110. The first end 108 may be elevated a
greater distance relative to the second end, or vice versa. In the
illustrated embodiment, for instance, a line between the first and
second ends 108, 110 may be angled relative to the surface on which
the support structure 102 rests. The amount of incline may vary. By
way of example, in one embodiment, the incline is between about ten
degrees and about thirty degrees. In other embodiments, however,
the incline may be less than about ten degrees or more than about
thirty degrees. Indeed, in other embodiments, the first and second
ends 108, 110 may be elevated approximately the same distance
relative to the surface on which the support structure 102 rests,
such that the incline of the track 104 may be between about zero
and about ten degrees. In other embodiments, the incline of the
track 104 may be increased to be, for instance, between about
thirty and about sixty degrees. The incline may also be selectively
adjustable by the user.
[0062] The track 104 is further illustrated as having a curved
shape that is upwardly concave. The type and degree of the curve in
the track 104 may be varied. For instance the track 104 may be
arcuate and have a circular, parabolic, ellipsoid, or any other
curved shape, although in other embodiments, the track 104 may be
straight, or have an upward convex curved configuration. In some
embodiments, the track 104 may have any combination of the
foregoing. For instance, the track 104 may have various curved or
linear profiles along its length. Thus, the curve of the track 104
may transition between curves of different shapes or dimensions, as
well as between straight, convex, or concave portions, or any
combination of the foregoing.
[0063] The curved or inclined orientation of the track 104 can
provide the user with the ability to exercise abdominal muscles in
a manner similar to crunches or sit-ups, but in manner that
preserves proper form and reduces the risk of injury. Furthermore,
in a traditional sit-up, the user can "bounce" off the ground, and
also has his or her hands behind his or her head. The "bounce"
effect can use momentum to complete the sit-up, and the hands can
be used to pull the head forward. As a result, momentum and muscles
other than the abdominal muscles may be used in completing the
sit-up. With the exercise device 100, the curved and/or inclined
track 104 can reduce or eliminate the "bounce" effect and require
the user to use the abdominal muscles, thereby more effectively
working the core muscle region.
[0064] The track 104 may be elevated from a surface by the support
structure 102 according to any number of different aspects. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, for instance, the
support structure 102 includes a base 112 and an upright support
114. The track 104 can be supported or elevated using the base 112
and/or the upright support 114. In particular, in accordance with
at least one aspect, the base 112 is configured to stabilize the
exercise device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, stability is
provided as the base 112 includes opposing forward and rear foot
portions 116, 118, along with a main support member 120 between the
forward foot portion 116 and the rear foot portion 118. The forward
and rear foot portions 116, 118 may extend laterally outward (see
FIGS. 2A and 2B) so as to increase the lateral footprint of the
exercise device 100. As a result, the forces placed on the exercise
device 100, including those associated with the weight of the
exercise device 100, the weight of the user using the exercise
device 100, and the forces exerted by the user during use of the
exercise device 100, can be spread over a larger area, thereby
stabilizing the exercise device 100 and the user, and reducing the
risk that the user 100 will inadvertently cause the exercise device
100 to tip over.
[0065] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the Sip Factor is
effected by the configuration and height of the rear foot support
118 relative to the forward foot support 116. As shown, the forward
foot 116 is secured to the main support member 120 via an
adjustable orientation support 117. While an adjustable Sip Factor
can be achieved by securing both the rear foot support 118 and the
forward foot support 116 to the main support member 120 or other
portions of the exercise device 100 via an adjustable orientation
support 117, for ease of explanation only, the present system will
be described as having only a single front orientation support
117.
[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the Sip Factor of the
exercise device (100) is selectively modified by the adjustable
orientation support 117. Specifically, by varying the height of the
connection points of the rear foot 118 and the forward foot 116
relative to the surface the exercise device is disposed on, the
angular orientation of the main support member 120 and the track
104 are modified, thereby modifying the Sip Factor.
[0067] As detailed in FIG. 9, the adjustable orientation support
117 includes an adjustment housing 900 secured on a first end to
the forward foot 116. The second end of the adjustment housing 900
is slideably attached to a sliding member 910 defining a plurality
of height selection orifices 912. As shown, a first end of the
mating sliding member 910 is slideably attached to the adjustment
housing 900 and a second end of the sliding member is secured to
the main support member 120. When a desired Sip Factor is achieved
via translation of the sliding member 910 relative to the
adjustment housing 900, the pin reception orifice 902 defined by
the adjustment housing 900 is aligned with the nearest height
selection orifice 912 in the sliding member 910. When aligned, the
pin 920 can be inserted through the aligned orifices to fix the Sip
Factor. Optionally, the pin 920 is biased. For instance, the pin
920 may include spring loaded bearings. The bearings may be
compressible by forcing the pin 920 through one or both of the
orifices 902, 912. The biased bearings may reduce the risk that the
pin 920 becomes inadvertently displaced from the apertures 902,
912, but may be overcome by exerting a sufficient force on the pin
902.
[0068] FIG. 10 illustrates how modification of the adjustable
orientation support 117 varies the Sip Factor. As illustrated in
FIG. 10, the Sip Factor is the cosine of the angular orientation S
of the track assembly of the sliding core training apparatus
relative to the surface it is on. Particularly, as illustrated, the
Sip Factor is determined from the point V that a line 1010 defined
by the two end points of the track 108, 110 intersects a datum
plane 1000 formed by the points of contact between the base of the
sliding core training apparatus 116, 118 and the surface it is
disposed on. Actuation and extension of the adjustable orientation
support 117 will incline the base 112, the main support member 120,
and the track 104. Consequently, the angle S will increase and the
Sip Factor will decrease.
[0069] The amount of incline and the resulting Sip Factor may vary.
By way of example, in one embodiment, the adjustable range of
incline that may be varied by varying the adjustable orientation
support 117 is between about ten degrees and about thirty degrees,
resulting in a Sip Factors ranging between 0.98 and 0.86. In other
embodiments, however, the incline may be varied to between less
than about ten degrees or more than about thirty degrees. Indeed,
in other embodiments, the first and second ends 108, 110 may be
elevated approximately the same distance relative to the surface on
which the support structure 102 rests, such that the incline of the
track 104 may be between about zero and about ten degrees,
resulting in a Sip Factor of between 1 and 0.98. In other
embodiments, the incline of the track 104 may be increased to be,
for instance, between about thirty and about sixty degrees,
resulting in a Sip Factor range of between 0.86 and 0.5. In yet
another embodiment, the Sip Factor can be selectively modified
between 1.0 and 0.25.
[0070] Returning again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the main support member
120 is also curved, and upwardly convex. It should be appreciated
that the curve of the main support member 120 is merely exemplary.
In other embodiments, the main support member 120 may, for
instance, be substantially straight. In at least one aspect, a
curved main support member 120 may facilitate elevating the track
102 relative to a floor or other surface on which the base 112 of
the support structure 102 is placed.
[0071] The track 104 is optionally supported directly or indirectly
by the main support member 120. For instance, the convex, lower
side of the track 104 may rest directly on the main support member
120. In other embodiments, however, the track 104 may be displaced
or elevated relative to the main support member 120. In FIGS. 1A
and 1B, for instance, a track support 122 is attached to the main
support member 120 and extends therefrom. The track 104 may then be
connected at or near a distal end of the track support 122. The
track 104 may thus be supported by the track support 122 in a
manner that causes the track 104 to remain at a position that is
offset or displaced from the base 112, including the main support
member 120. For instance, the track 104 may be supported such that
the track 104 is generally aligned with the direction of the main
support member 120, although this is not necessarily the case, or
may change during use of the exercise device 100.
[0072] The track support 122 may have any suitable construction,
shape, or configuration. For instance, while a single track support
122 is illustrated as extending from the base 112, this is merely
exemplary. In other embodiments, multiple track supports 122 may
extend from the base 112, or one or more track supports 122 may
support the track 104 without being attached to the base 112. For
instance, the track support 122 may directly engage a floor or
other surface, be cantilevered from the upright support 114, or
otherwise support the track 104. The position and orientation of
the track support 122 may also be varied. By way of illustration,
the track support 122 in FIGS. 1A and 1B is illustrated at an
incline relative to vertical, and generally perpendicular to the
incline of the track 104. In other embodiments, the track support
122 may be at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the track 104,
may have a substantially vertical orientation, or may be otherwise
configured.
[0073] Furthermore, in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the track support 122 is
shown as being optionally attached to the track 104 at a location
that is approximately centered along the arcuate length of the
track 104. In other embodiments, the track support 104 may be
offset at any distance from a center of the track 104. For
instance, the track support may be positioned at or near the first
and/or second end 108, 110 of the track 102, or anywhere in
between.
[0074] Optionally, the track 104 is connected or otherwise
supported to the support structure 102 at multiple locations. By
way of example, in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the support structure 102
includes an upright support 114 extending at least partially in a
vertical direction relative to the base 112. The upright support
114 may include, for instance, an elevation structure 124 and a set
of handles 126. The elevation structure 124 can be connected to the
base 112, and extend at least partially in a vertical direction.
The elevation structure 124 may be substantially vertical, may be
inclined, may be curved, or have another structure, or any
combination of the foregoing. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, for instance, the
elevation structure 124 is curved and inclined such that the
handles 126 extend from the base 112 in both vertical and
horizontal directions.
[0075] The handles 126 are optionally connected to the elevation
structure 124 of the upright support 114, and can include grips 128
for a user to grasp while using the exercise device 100.
[0076] The handles 126 form an upper body support that may be fixed
relative to the track 104, although this need not be the case. By
fixing the handles 126 relative to the track 104, a user is able to
stabilize his or her upper body and focus on exercising the
abdominal muscles.
[0077] The position of the handles 126 may be permanent or
adjustable. For instance, in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the handles 126 are
connected to an adjustment member 127 that can be used to
selectively adjust the height of the handles 126. In FIGS. 1A and
1B, the adjustment member 127 is coupled to the elevation structure
124, and may include a knob or other member that can be rotated to
selectively disengage the handles 126, although a pop pin, clamp,
or other adjustment mechanism may also be used. Upon disengaging
the adjustment member 127, the handles 126 can slide or otherwise
move vertically upward or downward. The user may then reengage the
adjustment mechanism 127 to secure the handles 126 at a desired
position. In one embodiment, the handles 126 slide within channel
braces, although in other embodiments, telescoping, gearing or
other mechanisms may be used within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0078] The handles 126 are optionally pivotally connected to the
elevation member 124. For instance, the adjustment member 127 may
additionally or alternatively be used to selectively pivot relative
to the elevation member 124. When the adjustment member 127 is
disengaged, the handles 126 may be permitted to pivot, whereas the
engaging the adjustment member 127 may fix the handles 126 at a
desired orientation relative to the elevation structure 124.
[0079] Allowing the handles 126 to pivot between different
positions allows a user to perform multiple types of exercises or
to isolate a particular muscle or muscle group. For instance, in
FIGS. 1A and 1B, the handles 126 are oriented such that grips 128
are positioned above the first end 108 of the track 104. If the
handles 126 are rotated such that the grips 128 are positioned
nearer the center of the track 104, the user may be allowed to lean
backward, thereby targeting a wholly different set of muscles. If
the handles 126 are rotated forward such that the grips 128 are
positioned will in advance of the first end 108 of the track 104,
the user may lean forward, thereby targeting still another muscle
group.
[0080] Any suitable mechanism may be used to allow the handles 126
to pivot relative to the elevation member 124. For instance, a
pivot pin 129 may extend through the handles 126 and the elevation
member 124. When the adjustment member 127 is disengaged, the
handles 126 can rotate freely around the pivot pin 129. Hinges,
linkages or other structures that allow the handles 126 to rotate
relative to the elevation member 124 may also be used. Optionally,
the handles 126 may pivot during use of the exercise device 100,
thereby facilitating targeting of multiple muscle groups.
[0081] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the track 104 may be at
least indirectly connected to the upright support 114. For
instance, in at least one aspect, a locking mechanism 130 may
selectively secure the track 104 relative to the upright support
114. In particular, in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the locking mechanism 130
connects the first end 108 of the track 104 to the elevation
structure 124 of the upright support 114. As discussed in greater
detail herein, the locking mechanism 130 may be changeable between
at least first and second states. For instance, the locking
mechanism 130 may have a first, engaged state in which the track
104 is selectively secured at a fixed position relative to the
vertical support 114, and a second, disengaged state in which the
track 104 is released and allowed to rotate or otherwise move
relative to the vertical support 114.
[0082] While FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrates the locking mechanism 114
securing the track 104 to the elevation structure 124 of the
upright support 114, it should be appreciated that this is merely
one embodiment. In other embodiments, for instance, the locking
mechanism 114 may selectively lock or otherwise connect the track
104 to the handles 126, the cross member 112, the forward or rear
foot portions 116, 118, the track support 122, or to any other
suitable member or component. Inasmuch as release of the locking
mechanism 130 can allow movement of the track relative to the
support structure, the locking mechanism 130 is one example of a
means for selectively moving the track relative to the support
structure 102.
[0083] As also illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the body support
member 106 may be slide ably disposed relative to the track 104. In
accordance with at least one aspect, the body support member 106 is
configured to receive a portion of a user's body, and allow the
user's body to move relative to portions of the exercise device
100. The user may grasp the handles 126 of the support structure
102 so as to gain leverage to facilitate movement of the user's
body and the body support member 106, or may use the device without
grasping the handles 126. According to at least some embodiments,
the user may kneel or sit on the body support member 106, may place
a leg or arm on the body support member 106, or otherwise place a
portion of the user's body on the body support member 106 in a
manner that facilitates exercise.
[0084] According to one aspect, the user may kneel on the body
support member 106, such that the user faces the upright support
114. The body support member 106 may include a seat portion 132 on
which the user places his or her knees or other portion of the
body. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the seat portion 132 is attached to a
carriage 134 that slides relative to the track 104. For instance,
the carriage 134 may include a slider 136 that connects to the
track 104 and facilitates movement along the track 104. The slider
136 may roll or slide relative to the track 104. For instance, the
slider 136 may include wheels, ball bearings, roller bearings, a
rack and pinion, or other elements that roll along an upper, lower,
interior, or exterior surface of the track 104. Additionally, or
alternatively, the slider 136 may include linkage, a channel
bracket, a belt clamp, clutching mechanism, or other sliding
structure.
[0085] The track 104 can be made of any of a number of different
materials, including metals, plastics, composites, organic
materials, or other materials or combinations of the foregoing.
According to some aspects, the track may have a coating, lubricant,
or some other material that facilitates sliding of the carriage 134
relative to the track 104. For instance, a coating having a
relatively low coefficient of friction can be used to reduce the
friction between the slider 136 and the track 104, to provide a
more fluid sliding motion to the body support member 106.
[0086] The shape and/or orientation of the track 104 may also
provide various benefits to the user. For instance, where the track
104 is inclined, the body support member 106 may change elevation
along the length of the track 104. As the body support member 106
increases in elevation, the body of the user can counteract
gravitational forces, thereby contracting the abdominal muscles.
The degree to which the abdominal muscles are contracted, or the
isolation of which muscles are contracted, can also be varied based
on the position of the handles 126, such that various intensity
levels or exercises are possible based on whether the user is
upright, leaning forward, or leaning backward. The body support
member 106 can be configured to slide along all or a portion of the
length of the track 104. In one aspect, the track 104 may include
or have attached thereto one or more stops 138. The stops 138 can
be used to engage the carriage 134 or slider 136 and restrict
movement of the body support member 106. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, for
instance, stops 138 are positioned near the first and second ends
108. 110 of the track 104. More particularly, the body support
member 106 may slide relative to the track 104 and towards the
second end 110 of the track 104. As the carriage 134 engages the
stop 138, the body support member 106 may be restricted from
further movement towards the second end 110 of the track 104,
thereby reducing the chance that the body support member 106
disengages the track 104 during exercise. Similarly, as the body
support member 106 slides relative to the track 104 and towards the
first end 108 of the track 104, the slider 136 may engage the stops
138. The stops 138 may be removable or excluded to allow the body
support member 106 to have substantially a full range of motion
along the track 104. It is also not necessary that stops 138 be
included at the first and second ends 108, 110 of the track 104.
For instance, in some embodiments, no stop may be included as the
handles 126 and/or the elevation structure 124 of the upright
support 114 may restrict movement of the body support member
106.
[0087] Turning now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the exercise device 100 of
FIGS. 1A and 1B is illustrated in a perspective view, and
illustrates other exemplary aspects of an exercise device according
to the present disclosure. For instance, in the illustrated
embodiment, the track 104 is illustrated as being elevated above
the track support 122. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the track
support 122 is connected to the main support member 120, and the
main support member 120 is in turn connected to and/or supported by
two foot portions 116, 118. The forward and rear foot portions 116,
118 are, in the illustrated embodiment, connected to the main
support member 120 using mechanical fasteners such as bolts,
screws, rivets, and the like, although in other embodiments other
mechanisms may be used. For instance, the foot portions 116, 118
may be welded to the main support member 120, or may be integrally
formed as a single unit using a casting, molding, machining, or
other formation process. Further, while the foot portions 116, 118
are illustrated as separate, in some embodiments, a ring or other
mechanism may fully surround the main support member 120.
[0088] The body support member 106 is also illustrated as including
a seat portion 132 upon which a user may rest a portion of his or
her body. In at least one aspect, the seat portion 132 is adapted
to be knelt or stood upon and to allow a user to comfortably rest
his or her knees, feet, or legs on the top surface of the seat
portion 132. The seat portion 132 may be contoured to comfortably
accommodate a user's leg. For instance, in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the
seat portion 132 includes two indentions 144 configured to
generally conform to the contours of a leg.
[0089] When a user has placed his or her body on the seat portion
132, the user may then move the seat portion 132 back and forth
along the track 140. To facilitate such movement, the track 104
includes two guides 140 which are engaged by the slider 136. The
two guides 140 of FIGS. 2A and 2B have a curved, arcuate shape
generally corresponding to and/or at least partially defining the
curved, arcuate shape of the track 104. The guides 140 may also
define the path along which the body support member 106 travels.
The slider 136 may engage the guides 140 and slide relative
thereto, thereby directing the slider 136 and the carriage 134
along the path defined by the guides 140 and the track 104. While
the illustrated embodiment shows a set of two guides 140 that help
to define a path of travel along at least a portion of the length
of the track 104, this is exemplary and in other embodiments there
may be a single guide or more than two guides.
[0090] In FIGS. 2A and 2B, a mount 142 is connected to the guides
140. The mount 142 may be used for any number of purposes. For
instance, the mount 142 may be used to maintain the track 104
elevated relative to the base 112 of the support structure 102.
Optionally, the mount 142 is positioned at least partially between
the guides 140. For instance, the mount 142 may be formed separate
from the guides 140 and directly or indirectly secured to the
guides 140 in any suitable manner such as with mechanical
fasteners, welding, brazing, or other mechanisms, or combinations
of the foregoing. In another aspect, the mount 142 may be
integrally formed with the guides 140 and/or the track 104.
[0091] The mount 142 can be used to connect the track 104 to the
track support 122. The manner of connection may also be such that
the track 104 is permitted to selectively move relative to the
track support 122 and/or the base 112 of the support structure 102.
For instance, in at least one aspect, the mount 142 may be
pivotally connected to the track support 122. Consequently, the
base 112 may remain in a relatively fixed position while the track
104 can be selectively rotated or otherwise moved relative to the
base 112.
[0092] As discussed herein, movement of the track 104 relative to
the base 112 may be selective. For instance, in at least one
embodiment, a user may cause the body support member 106 to travel
along a length of the track 104. Using his or her core muscles, the
user may cause the track 104 to maintain in a relatively stationary
position relative to the base 112. In some embodiments, the user
maintains the track 104 stationary relative to the base 112. In
other embodiments, a locking mechanism 130 may be used to at least
partially maintain the track 104 stationary relative to the base
112.
[0093] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the locking mechanism 130 of
FIGS. 1A through 2B in greater detail. In particular, FIG. 3A
illustrates the locking mechanism 130 in a first state, in which at
least the first end 108 of the track 104 is substantially locked at
a fixed position relative to the elevation structure 124 of the
support structure 102. FIG. 3B illustrates the locking mechanism
130 in a second state, in which the first end 108 of the track 104
is released and may be selectively moved relative to the elevation
structure 124 of the support structure 102.
[0094] More particularly, FIG. 3A illustrates a portion of the
exercise device illustrated in FIGS. 1A through 2B, and
specifically illustrates the locking mechanism 130. In the
illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 130 is proximate the
first end 108 of the track 104, although this is merely exemplary.
In other embodiments, for instance, the locking mechanism 130 may
be positioned at a second end of the track 104, at a position
between the ends of the track 104, or at any suitable location that
allows the track 104 to be selectively placed in one or more
states.
[0095] In FIG. 3A, the locking mechanism 130 includes a containment
plate 146 that cooperates with a pin 148. The containment plate 146
is, in this embodiment, secured between the two guides 140 of the
track 140, and defines a first aperture 150. The first support 124
of the support structure 102 includes a second aperture 152, and
the first and second apertures 150, 152 are aligned in such a
manner that the pin 148, when in a first position, can be
positioned within both the first and second apertures 150, 152, and
thereby simultaneously engage both the containment plate 146 and
the first support 124. The first and second apertures 150, 152 thus
define receptors such that in the first position, the pin 148 can
thereby restrict movement of the first end 108 of the track 104
relative to the first support 124. For instance, the pin 148 can be
used to restrict both rotational and translational motion of the
track 104 relative to the first support 124.
[0096] The pin 148 may be movable between different positions.
Accordingly, in at least some aspects, the pin 148 has a second
position, which may also correspond to a second state of the
locking mechanism 130. For instance, in a second state, the locking
mechanism 130 may allow the track 104 to rotate, translate, or
otherwise move relative to the support structure 102. FIG. 3B
illustrates an example of such a second state of the locking
mechanism 130. In the illustrated second state, the pin 148 has
been retracted from the first and second apertures 150, 152. As
such, the pin 148 has ceased simultaneously engaging both the track
104 and the first support 124, and thus been released from a
motion-restrictive position.
[0097] In one embodiment, the pin 148 need not be retracted from
both the first and second apertures 150, 152 to allow the locking
mechanism 130 to transition from a first state to a second state.
For instance, the pin 148 may be removed solely from the second
aperture 152 to release the track 104 such that it is free to move
relative to the support structure 102. Optionally, the pin 148 is
biased. For instance, the pin 148 may included spring loaded
bearings. The bearings may be compressible by forcing the pin 148
through one or both of the apertures 150, 152. The biased bearings
may reduce the risk that the pin 148 becomes inadvertently
displaced from the apertures 150, 152, but may be overcome by
exerting a sufficient force on the pin 148.
[0098] As noted herein, when the locking mechanism 130 transitions
between first and second states, the track 104 may also transition
from a first, engaged state, to a second, disengaged state. In the
engaged state, the track 104 optionally has a substantially fixed
position relative to at least some portions of the support
structure 102. In the disengaged state, the track 104 may be
released to freely move relative to such same portions of the
support structure 102.
[0099] FIG. 4 illustrates the exercise device 100 when the track
104 and locking mechanism 130 are in their respective disengaged
states. In particular, in at least some aspects, the track 104 may
be secured to the support structure 102 using a pivotal connection.
More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, the track 104
includes a mount 142 attached thereto. The mount 142 may also be
attached to a track support 122 (see FIGS. 1A through 2B). The
mount 142 may connect to the track support 122 about a rotational
axis that is optionally about perpendicular to the track 104. A
user of the exercise device 100 may twist his or her lower body
from side-to-side while using the exercise device 100 to not only
exercise his or her left or right oblique muscles, but to also move
the track 104 from side to side, as shown in FIG. 4. The user may,
for instance, exert a force on the body support member 106 and/or
the handles 126 to cause the track 104 to rotate from side-to-side,
and may do so in a manner that alternates between exercising left
and right oblique muscles. The user may also slide the body support
member 106 along the track 104. Thus, the user can exercise oblique
muscles while also performing a crunch-like exercise and exercising
multiple different abdominal muscles. As the user may use the
handles 126 and/or the body support member 106 to provide leverage
to selectively move the track, the handles 126 and the body support
member 106 are each one example of a means for selectively moving
the track 104 relative to the support structure 102.
[0100] While the locking mechanism 130 is in a disengaged state, a
user can rotate the track 104 to a particular angular orientation
relative to the support structure 102. Additionally, the user may
then use his or her abdominal muscles to substantially maintain the
track 104 at the particular angular orientation, while continuing
to slide the body support member 106 along the track 104. For
instance, FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a user performing an abdominal
exercise on the exercise device 100, while the track 104 is in a
disengaged state relative to the support 102.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 5A, a user may use his or her hands to
grasp the handles 126 of the exercise device 100. Using his or her
oblique muscles, the user may rotate the track 104 to the position
illustrated in FIG. 5A. For instance, the track 104 may rotate
about an axis of rotation that is defined by the mount 142. In the
illustrated embodiment, the track 104 is rotated to an angular
position at which the track is about perpendicular to the
cross-support 120 of the support structure 102, although the track
104 may be positioned at any number of other angular positions.
Particularly, by modifying the Sip Factor, a user may vary the
resistance experienced and modify their workout. Once the desired
Sip Factor is selected, a user may initiate any number of
exercises.
[0102] With the user's knees positioned on the body support member
106, the user may pull on the handles 126 and use his or her
abdominal muscles to slide the body support member 104 along all or
a portion of the length of the track 104. For instance, in FIGS. 5A
and 5B illustrate the exercise device 100 having the track 104 at
approximately the same orientation relative at the support
structure 102; however, in FIG. 5B, the body support member 106
slides along the track 104 from a position near the second end 110
of the track (see FIG. 5A) to a position that is more proximate the
first end 108 of the track 104.
[0103] Using the exercise device 100 described herein, the user can
exercise each of the core muscle groups, and can also isolate
particular core muscle groups. For instance, in accordance with one
aspect, the user may isolate his or her oblique muscles by rotating
the track 104 relative to the support structure 102 and maintaining
the body support member 106 in a fixed position relative to the
track 104, such that the body support member 106 also moves
relative to the support structure 102. In another aspect, the user
may isolate certain abdominal muscles by maintaining the track 104
at a fixed position relative to the support structure 102, and
moving the body support member 106 relative to the track 104 and
the support structure 102. Indeed, inasmuch as the track 104 may
rotate relative to the support structure 102, and the body support
member 106 may slide relative to the track 104, the exercise device
100 provides at least three exercise motions, namely: (a) a
translational motion; (b) a rotational motion; and (c) a combined
motion. In the combined motion, the user may simultaneously use
both the translational and rotational motions provided by the
exercise device 100.
[0104] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an exercise device 200,
along with some of the various exercise motions the user may
perform using the exercise device 200. In the illustrated
embodiment, the track 204 and the body support member 206 may be at
a first position 201a. If the track 204 is allowed to freely rotate
an axis of rotation defined by the mount 242, the track 204 and
body support member 206 may freely move between positions 201a,
201b, and 201c. For instance, the track 204 and body support member
206 may be independently movable relative to each other and the
support structure, such that a user may maintain the body support
member 206 at a relatively fixed location along the length of the
track 204, while the track 204 is rotated and moved from
side-to-side between positions 201b and 201c. In so doing, the body
support member 206 may follow a curved, arcuate path A-A. The
arcuate path A-A may have a radius of curvature about equal to the
distance between the body support member 206 and the mount 242.
Thus, in at least one aspect, the track 204 and body support member
206 can rotate relative to a support structure (see FIGS. 5A and
5B), while the body support member 206 remains about stationary
relative to the track 204. Optionally, the axis of rotation of the
track 204 is oriented at an angle that is substantially tangential
relative to the arc A-A defined by rotation of the track about the
axis of rotation.
[0105] As also discussed previously, rather than maintaining the
body support member 206 at a fixed position relative to the track
204, the body support member 206 may be allowed to slide or
otherwise move along all or a portion of the length of the track
204. For instance, in FIG. 6, the track 204 may be at position
201a. While the track 204 remains substantially fixed at position
201a, the body support member 204 may move along the track 204 by
following the path B-B. While the path B-B is illustrated as being
substantially linear, one will appreciate in view of the disclosure
herein, that the path may have other forms. For instance, the track
204 may be arcuate, such that the path B-B may be curved, arcuate,
or take any number of other shapes and forms.
[0106] Path A-A and path B-B are merely illustrative of some
example paths that a body support member 206 may take. For
instance, such paths may illustrate movement of the body support
member 206 relative to a structure supporting the track 204. In
accordance with some aspects, paths A-A and B-B may also represent
example paths facilitated by maintaining at least one element of
the exercise device 200 at substantially constant position relative
to another element. In particular, along path A-A, the body support
member 206 may remain at a substantially constant position relative
to the track 204. Along path B-B, the track 204 may remain at a
substantially constant position relative to a support structure.
Such constant positions may be maintained by the user or the
exercise device. For instance, by using his or her core muscles,
the user may maintain the track 204 at a constant position relative
to the support structure, and/or maintain the body support member
206 at a constant position relative to the track 204. Additionally,
or alternatively, the exercise device may include a locking
mechanism or other structure that can fix the track 204 to a
support structure, or can be used to lock the body support member
206 at a particular position along the length of the track 204.
[0107] In other aspects, the body support member 206 may follow
still additional paths, thereby allowing a user to isolate
different muscles, or exercise abdominal muscles at different
intensities. More particularly, by moving the body support member
206 relative to the track 204, and by moving the track 204 relative
to a support structure, the actual path of the body support member
206 may vary between an infinite number of possibilities. FIG. 6
illustrates two such options as path C-C and path D-D. In
particular, paths C-C and D-D are about mirror images of each
other, and illustrate example paths that the body support member
206 may follow if the body support member 206 translates along the
track 204 and the track 204 is rotated about twenty-five degrees
about an axis of rotation defined at least partially by the mount
242. The paths C-C and D-D are therefore obtained by combining the
rotational movement of the track 204 (e.g., path A-A) with the
translational movement of the body support member 206 (e.g., path
B-B).
[0108] As the user uses the exercise device 200, a user can perform
abdominal exercises similar to sit-ups or crunches by positioning
his or her body on the body support member 206 and using the
abdominal muscles. More particularly, the abdominal muscles can be
used to accelerate the body support member 206 from the second end
210 of the track 204 towards the first end 208 of the track, while
the user's knees are on the body support member 208. While paths
A-A, B-B, CC, and D-D are illustrated as extending in a single
direction, a full repetition is completed by returning the body
support member 206 to a resting position. While the return path may
be the same as the initial path, the return path may also be
varied.
[0109] While the positions 201b and 201c of the track 204 are
illustrated in FIG. 6 as being angularly offset from position 201a
by approximately twenty-five degrees, it should be appreciated that
this is merely to provide one example of a manner in which a user
may use the exercise devices described. The track 204 may, for
instance, be rotated any suitable amount, and such rotation may be
greater or less than twenty-five degrees. For instance, a user may
rotate the track 204 about an axis of rotation by any amount
between zero and ninety degrees, although in some embodiments, the
track 204 may rotate a full three hundred sixty degrees.
Furthermore the body support member 206 may also move any amount
along the length of the track 204.
[0110] In embodiments in which the track 204 can rotate relative to
a corresponding support structure (e.g., about an axis of rotation
passing through the mount 242), the track 204 may be coupled to the
support structure using a pivotal connection or other rotational
coupling. In some embodiments, such a connection may allow the
track 204 to rotate about an axis that is about perpendicular to
the track 204. In FIG. 6, the axis of rotation may extend through
the mount 242, which is, in this embodiment, positioned along the
track 204 and between the opposing first and second ends 208, 210
of the track 204. For instance, the mount 242 and/or the axis of
rotation may be about centered relative to the length of the track
204, although the location of the mount 242 or the axis of rotation
may be varied.
[0111] For instance, FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an exercise
device 300 having a track 304 that can rotate about an axis of
rotation 341 that is at one end of the track 304. In this
embodiment, the track 304 has opposing first and second ends 308,
310, and the axis of rotation 341 is proximate the second end 310
of the track 304. For instance, the first end 308 of the track 304
may be positioned near a support structure that allows a user to
balance himself or herself (e.g., vertical support 114 of FIG. 1A).
A mount 342 or other structure may provide an axis or rotation 341
about the opposing second end 310 of the track 304. Consequently,
the user may use his or her core muscles, arms, and/or legs to
cause the track 304 to rotate about a point near the second end 310
of the track 304, thereby also rotating the body support member
306.
[0112] In some embodiments, the mount 342 may be movable relative
to the track 304. For instance, a set screw or other mechanism may
be used to selectively secure and release the mount 342 such that
the mount 342 can move relative to the track 304. A user may,
therefore vary the position of the mount 342 relative to the track
304. As a result, a user can change the position about which the
track 304 rotates, and may also be able to change other parameters,
such as the slope of the track 304.
[0113] Even in embodiments in which the mount 342 is movable along
the length of the track 304, the track 304 may also be locked to
selectively allow or restrict rotation. For instance, a locking
mechanism may be positioned at the first end 308 of the track 304,
and have various locking structures on a support structure to
adjust for the various positions of the first end 308 relative to
the support structure. In other embodiments, the locking mechanism
may be placed at the second end 310 of the track. In still other
embodiments, a locking mechanism may be positioned at the mount
342. For instance, if a locking mechanism is placed in an engaged
state, the mount 342 may be restricted from rotating, thereby also
restricting rotation of the track 304.
[0114] FIG. 8 illustrates various features of an exercise device
400 in which a body support member 406 is connected to a track 404.
The body support member 406 may be configured to slide along all or
a portion of the length of the track 404. For instance, in FIG. 8,
the track is configured as a rail and the body support member 406
may slide along the rail using rollers, bearings, linkages, and the
like.
[0115] In some embodiments, the track 404 may also be configured to
move in one or more manners. For instance, in FIG. 8, the support
structure may define or include a guide 443 along which the track
404 may translate. In this embodiment, the guide 443 has a curved
configuration; however, the guide 443 could be linear, S-shaped, or
have any other suitable shape or form. For instance, in some
embodiments, the track 304 may slide back and forth in a
horizontal, lateral, or vertical direction, or in any combination
thereof.
[0116] A mount 442 is coupled to the track 404 in FIG. 8. The mount
443 may also facilitate multiple movements with respect to the
track 404. For instance, the mount 443 may facilitate rotational
and/or translational movement of the track 404. In at least some
embodiments, the mount 443 may slide along all or a portion of the
length of the guide 443, thereby causing the track 404 to
translate. For instance, the mount 442 may include, or have
connected thereto, rollers, bearings, linkages, channel brackets,
or other suitable mechanisms to facilitate translational movement
of the track 404 along the guide 443.
[0117] Optionally, the track 404 may also rotate. For instance, in
at least some embodiments, the mount 442 is connected to a support
structure. Such a connection may be a pivotal or rotational
connection. Consequently, a user may be able to cause the track 404
to rotate about an axis of rotation defined at least partially by
the connection of the mount 442 to the support structure. For
instance, FIG. 8 illustrates an example exercise device 400 in
which the track 404 is translated along the guide 443 while also
being rotated about an axis of rotation centered within the mount
442. More particularly, various available positions of the track
404 are illustrated in phantom lines, and include positions at
which the track 404 is translated in opposing directions along the
guide 443, and rotated at various different angular positions at
mount 442.
[0118] As will be appreciated in view of the disclosure herein, the
embodiment in FIG. 8 provides a user with a variety of different
options for exercise. Such options may allow, for instance, the
user to isolate various abdominal or other muscle groups in a
customized and desired manner. Furthermore, the modification of the
Sip Factor by varying the initial angle of the track 104 relative
to the surface the exercise device 100 is resting on, gravitational
resistance may be ideally tuned for training the targeted muscle
groups. By way of example, a user may combine the different
available motions of the body support member 406 and track 404 in
any of seven different manners. In particular, the user may: (i)
translate the body support member 406; (ii) rotate the track 404;
(iii) translate the track 404; (iv) translate the body support
member 406 and rotate the track 404; (v) translate the body support
member 406 and translate the track 404; (vi) rotate and translate
the track 404; and (vii) translate the body support member while
rotating and translating the track 404, all at different Sip
Factors. In view of the disclosure herein, one skilled in the art
will readily appreciate that a user's body may thus travel along an
infinite number of exercise paths by using one or more available
motions provided by the exercise device 400.
[0119] Furthermore, the exercise device 400 optionally includes one
or more locking mechanisms such as those discussed herein. For
instance, a locking mechanism may be used to restrict rotation of
the track 404, translation of the track 404, translation of the
body support member 406, rotation of the body support member 406,
and the like. In some embodiments, multiple locking mechanisms may
be used. For instance, a locking mechanism may be placed near the
first end 408 of the track 404 and another locking mechanism may be
placed near the second end 410 of the track 404. The user may
independently engage or disengage the various locking mechanisms.
By way of illustration, a locking mechanism at the first end 408 of
the track 404 may be engaged to restrict translational movement of
the track 404 along the guide 443. A locking mechanism at the
second end 408 or at the mount 442 may be used to restrict
rotational movement of the track 404 about an axis or rotation
within the mount 442.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0120] In general, available training methods for strengthening a
person's abdominal muscles have traditionally included crunches or
sit-ups, specialized equipment, or home equipment. Sit-ups and
crunches have long been effective, but may increase a person's
likelihood of injury as they are frequently performed improperly.
Also, a person may inadvertently reduce the efficiency of such
exercises by using muscles other than the abdominal muscles in
performing the exercise.
[0121] Specialized equipment may also be available, but it is often
difficult or non-intuitive to use, and is generally
cost-prohibitive to a consumer. Such specialized equipment is
therefore often found only in fitness centers and gyms. Use of such
equipment may therefore be difficult, not only because of the
difficulty of operating the equipment, but because of the time a
user must dedicate to travel to and from the fitness center or
gym.
[0122] More recently, home-use fitness products such as the AB
CIRCLE PRO, AB CIRCLE MINI, and AB COASTER have been made available
to consumers for home use. While such products purport to allow a
user to efficiently strengthen and train abdominal muscles, recent
research has shown that the muscle activity and caloric expenditure
resulting from use of such devices is far from optimal. For
instance, a recent study was performed in which research subjects
exercised on a device that is the subject of the present
disclosure, performed sit-ups and crunches, and also used each of
the AB CIRCLE PRO, AB CIRCLE MINI, and AB COASTER. Using
electromyogram (EMG) hardware and software to record electric
currents associated with muscle contractions, peak and mean muscle
activity was measured for each of the rectus abdominus, transverse
abdominus, pectoralis major, biceps brachii, triceps brachii,
trapezius, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and gluteus maximus
muscle groups. Participant heart rate and oxygen consumption were
measured, and caloric expenditure was calculated for each
condition.
[0123] Based on such research, muscle activation using the devices
of the present disclosure far exceeded that for the AB CIRCLE PRO,
AB CIRCLE MINI, and AB COASTER, and also exceeded that for sit-ups
and crunches. For example, where the body support member had a
combined side-to-side swiveling motion, as well as the translating
glide motion along the track, exercise on the devices of the
present application was found to activate 44% more total muscle
than the AB CIRCLE MINI, and 37% more than the AB CIRCLE PRO. Use
of the devices of the present disclosure was also found to activate
a 34% greater muscle activation than the AB COASTER, even when the
AB COASTER participants used a combined sliding and rotational
motion. Metabolic measurements also demonstrated that users of the
devices of the present application expended significantly more
calories than on any of the AB CIRCLE PRO, AB CIRCLE MINI, and AB
COASTER. For instance, participants using the devices of the
present disclosure expended 33% more calories than users of the AB
CIRCLE MINI and 35% more calories than users of the AB CIRCLE
PRO.
[0124] The exercise devices of the present application thus permit
users to perform simple, intuitive exercises while providing
greater muscle activation and caloric expenditure than other
available products. Particularly, according to the embodiments
disclosed herein, adjustment of the Sip Factor provides for
increased and directed resistance. Specifically, the combination of
the variable Sip Factor along with the rotational variability of
the track 104 provides for focused and increased resistance for a
user's obliques, back, chest, and arms. Moreover, because the
exercise devices use gravity and/or a defined sliding path to
exercise core muscle groups, the user can work out safely without
placing excessive stress on joints or muscles. Accordingly, devices
of the present application include easy-to-use, home or commercial
exercise devices that may be desirable for use by any person,
particularly those seeking to tone or strengthen their upper and
lower abdominal muscles, burn fat, sculpt their body, or for any
combination of the foregoing.
[0125] The exercise devices of the present disclosure are not only
usable to enhance the abdominal strength of out-of-shape and
overweight users, but are also effective for persons who hope to
maintain their health or prevent the decline of their strength. The
disclosed exercise devices may also be used to exercise,
strengthen, and tone muscle groups other than the abdominal
muscles, including muscles in a user's arms, legs, and upper and
lower back.
[0126] The degree to which the abdominal muscles are contracted, or
the isolation of which muscles are contracted can also be varied
based on the position of the adjustable forward foot and can be
varied according to the Sip Factor. Specifically, the amount of
resistance experienced by the user due to gravity is increased as
the Sip Factor is decreased. As the angle of the track relative to
the surface is increased, the Sip Factor is decreased and the
gravitational resistance experienced by the user is increased.
Additionally, as the Sip Factor is decreased, a user will work
different muscles. As the Sip Factor is decreased, the user will
employ additional back, chest, and arm muscles to overcome the
added gravitational resistance. In this manner, the combination of
a rotatable track and the ability to vary the Sip Factor provides
the user with the ability to target any number of muscle groups,
and particularly allows a user to target oblique core muscles by
providing rotatable flexibility and the ability to vary
gravitational resistance via a modification of the Sip Factor.
[0127] As detailed above, the Sip Factor is determined by a manual
actuation of the orientation support. However, the variable
orientation of the track relative to the surface the exercise
device is resting on may be achieved using any number of
mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically
actuated systems.
[0128] While devices of the present application may provide
resistance based primarily by a user's body weight, the resistance
may be increased by adding one or more resistance members. For
example, resistance bands, springs, pneumatic members, shocks, and
the like may extend along the track and/or between the track and
support structure, to resist translational movement of the body
support member, or rotational movement of the track. Weights may
also be attached to increase the resistance. As described, the
support structure includes an adjustable height mechanism that
allows the front and/or rear feet portions to be elevated above the
ground, thereby changing the Sip Factor for modified resistance and
directed exercises.
[0129] Further, while some devices in accordance with the present
application may use a locking mechanism such as a pin to transition
between different states or configurations, locking mechanisms may
take any of numerous different forms. For instance, a pin may have
a threaded configuration such that the pin engages mating threads
within one or more corresponding threaded apertures. A retractable
pin may also be replaced with still other configurations. For
instance, a cog and sprocket, ratchet, clutch, tightening strap,
clamp, knob, lug, pop pin, pin and yoke combination, spring release
mechanism, brake, any other locking mechanism, or combinations of
the foregoing may be used. Optionally, a retractable pin or other
locking member may be accompanied by a tether, tie, or other
retainer usable to connect the locking member directly or
indirectly to a track or support structure, thereby reducing the
risk that the locking member will be inadvertently removed and/or
misplaced.
[0130] The devices disclosed herein thus allow a user to select
which exercises to perform, what muscle groups to target, and the
intensity and difficulty of the exercises being performed.
Additionally, the devices provide safe and effective abdominal,
back, leg, and arm exercises, making the exercise devices
well-suited for home and commercial use.
* * * * *