U.S. patent application number 14/598592 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-07 for fitness training station.
This patent application is currently assigned to ARQEX OUTDOOR FITNESS SYSTEMS, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is ARQEX OUTDOOR FITNESS SYSTEMS, LLC. Invention is credited to William C. Cesaroni, Eugene L. DiMonte, Morad Ghassemian, Eric A. Kaye, Steven M. Lenz, Brian W. Mathews, Donovan D. Zielke.
Application Number | 20150126348 14/598592 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53007460 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150126348 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kaye; Eric A. ; et
al. |
May 7, 2015 |
FITNESS TRAINING STATION
Abstract
A fitness station for performing exercises using resistance
devices; The station includes a base anchorable to a horizontal
surface; a support extending upwardly from the base; a first arm
extending outwardly from the support a distance vertically above
the base; a second arm extending outwardly from the support a
distance vertically above the first arm; a third arm extending
outwardly from the support a distance vertically above the second
arm; a fourth arm and fifth arm extending outwardly from the
support in a different direction to the first and second arms;
wherein the fifth arm is located a distance vertically beneath the
fourth arm. A plurality of attachment members are provided on one
or more of the base, the support, the first, second or third arms,
each attachment members being configured to have a resistance
device selectively secured thereto.
Inventors: |
Kaye; Eric A.; (Rye Brook,
NY) ; Cesaroni; William C.; (Glenview, IL) ;
Ghassemian; Morad; (Oak Park, IL) ; Mathews; Brian
W.; (Waterman, IL) ; DiMonte; Eugene L.;
(Aurora, IL) ; Zielke; Donovan D.; (Laguna Nigel,
CA) ; Lenz; Steven M.; (Naperville, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ARQEX OUTDOOR FITNESS SYSTEMS, LLC |
Rye Brook |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ARQEX OUTDOOR FITNESS SYSTEMS,
LLC
|
Family ID: |
53007460 |
Appl. No.: |
14/598592 |
Filed: |
January 16, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13836359 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
14598592 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/130 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/1209 20130101;
A63B 21/00069 20130101; A63B 23/1218 20130101; A63B 2225/10
20130101; A63B 23/03541 20130101; A63B 23/03508 20130101; A63B
21/0557 20130101; A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B 2023/006 20130101;
A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/130 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/055 20060101
A63B021/055 |
Claims
1. A fitness station comprising: a base adapted to be supported on
a horizontal surface; a support extending upwardly from the base; a
first arm extending outwardly from the support a distance away from
the base; said first arm extending partially in a first direction
from the support and partially in a second direction therefrom;
and; a plurality of first attachment members is provided on one or
more of the base, the support or the first arm, each first
attachment member being adapted to have a resistance device
selective secured thereto.
2. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the first arm
is adjustably mounted on the support and is selectively movable
toward and away from the base
3. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
attachment members are provided only on the base and the fitness
station further comprises: a plurality of second attachment members
provided on the support; wherein each second attachment member is
adapted to have a resistance device selectively secured
thereto.
4. The fitness station as defined in claim 3, further comprising: a
plurality of third attachment members provided on the first arm;
each third attachment member being adapted to have a resistance
device selectively secured thereto.
5. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the base is
substantially H-shaped and includes first and second base members
that are spaced laterally from each other; and a crossbar extending
between the first and second base members.
6. The fitness station as defined in claim 5, wherein each of the
first and second base members is arcuate and the first and second
base members are located relative to each other such that they
curve away from each other.
7. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the support
is a single support that is curved in shape.
8. The fitness station as defined in claim 7, wherein the single
support is an inverted J-shaped member.
9. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the first arm
is arcuate.
10. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
arm is substantially U-shaped when viewed from above.
11. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
arm comprises a first section and a second section and the first
section extends outwardly from the support in the first direction
and the second section extends outwardly from the support in the
second direction; and wherein each of the first and second sections
is independently secured to the support.
12. The fitness station as defined in claim 11, wherein each of the
first and second sections of the first arm is adjustably mounted on
the support.
13. The fitness station as defined in claim 12, wherein the support
includes a support member comprising a box region having a front
surface and opposed first and second side surfaces, said front
surface being spaced from a front surface of the support and the
first and second side surfaces extend between the front surface of
the box region and the front surface of the support; and wherein
the first and second side surfaces each define a first slot
therein.
14. The fitness station as defined in claim 13, further comprising
a pair of clamping assemblies; each clamping assembly securing one
of the first and second sections of the first arm to the box
region.
15. The fitness station as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
second arm provided on the support, said second arm being spaced a
distance vertically above the first arm; and wherein a plurality of
fourth attachment members is provided on the second arm; each
fourth attachment member being adapted to have a resistance device
selectively secured thereto.
16. The fitness station as defined in claim 15, further comprising
a third arm provided on the support, said third arm being spaced a
distance vertically above the second arm; and a plurality of fifth
attachment members is provided on the third arm, each fifth
attachment member being adapted to have a resistance device
selectively secured thereto.
17. The fitness station as defined in claim 16, further comprising
a fourth arm provided on the support and extending outwardly away
from the support and generally at about right angles relative to
the first and second arms.
18. The fitness station as defined in claim 17, further comprising
a fifth arm provided on the support and extending outwardly away
from the support and generally at about right angles relative to
the first and second arms; and wherein the fifth arm is engaged
with the support a distance vertically below the fourth arm.
19. The fitness station as defined in claim 17, wherein the fourth
arm includes a first pair of handles extending inwardly toward each
other at a first angle; and the fourth arm further includes a
second pair of handles extending inwardly toward each other at a
second angle; and the second pair of handles are located a distance
vertically below the first handles.
20. A fitness station comprising: a base adapted to be supported on
a horizontal surface; a support extending upwardly from the base; a
first arm extending outwardly from the support a distance
vertically above the base; a second arm extending outwardly from
the support a distance vertically above the first arm; a third arm
extending outwardly from the support a distance vertically above
the second arm; a fourth arm extending outwardly from the support
in an different direction to the first and second arms; and a fifth
arm extending outwardly from the support in a different direction
to the first and second arms; and wherein the fifth arm is located
a distance vertically beneath the fourth arm; a plurality of
attachment members provided on one or more of the base, the
support, the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm; each of
the plurality of attachment members being adapted to have a
resistance device selectively secured thereto.
21. The fitness station as defined in claim 20, wherein the support
is a single support that is of an inverted J-shape.
22. The fitness station as defined in claim 20, wherein one or both
of the first and second arms are adjustably mounted to the
support.
23. The fitness station as defined in claim 20, wherein the
attachment members are spaced at intervals from each other along
the one or more of the base, the support, the first arm, the second
arm, or the third arm.
24. The fitness station as defined in claim 20, wherein the
attachment members are spaced at regular intervals from each other
along the one or more of the base, the support, the first arm, the
second arm, or the third arm.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/836,359, filed Mar. 15, 2013, the entire
specification of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This invention relates generally to exercise equipment. More
particularly, this invention is directed to customizable and
ergonomically designed exercise equipment used for strength
training and stretching. Most specifically, this invention is
directed to a fitness system that may be installed in a commercial
gym, a home gym, or in an outdoor exercise area. The fitness system
allows a user to conveniently and effectively perform and track
with precision a variety of different exercises that engage
multiple muscle groups. The fitness system may be used along with
detachable resistance-type devices that are selectively attachable
to various parts of the system in order to perform a range of
different exercises.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] It is well known that in order to keep oneself healthy and
active, it is necessary to incorporate exercise into one's daily
routine. Many people join gyms to help them exercise on a regular
basis. A typical gym will include a number of machines or large
equipment systems which are dedicated to exercise one or another
part of the body. The user will have to move from machine to
machine in order to exercise their entire body. Most of these
machines utilize weights which the user will selectively engage
with the machine in order to achieve the intensity of workout that
they desire. If the user is inexperienced, there is the tendency to
avoid particular machines simply because it is difficult to figure
out what one is supposed to do on that machine. An inexperienced
user or someone who is too ambitious may inadvertently injure
themselves if too much weight is applied to any particular
exercise. Additionally, in busier gyms, the wait time for
particular machines may be long enough that it tends to discourage
people from undertaking a full exercise routine. There is therefore
the tendency to pick one or two favorite machines and exercises and
simply overlook the rest of the body.
[0006] Another arena that is becoming increasingly popular for
people to exercise in is outdoor "exercise parks". Unlike gyms,
these locations have fewer pieces of equipment for the user to use
and most often there is no way to increase the intensity of the
workout as the user gets fitter.
[0007] Because of the issue with weight-based equipment and the
tendency of inexperienced users to accidentally injure themselves
thereon, there has been a rise in the interest of using resistance
bands during exercise. Resistance bands are lengths of elastic
material which may be stretched to greater or lesser degrees. A
variety of exercises can be performed using resistance bands,
straps, and ropes. Depending on the type of exercise being
performed, a user may want to secure one or more resistance bands
to a stationary object such as a door, a pole or a piece of
furniture. The stationary object is used as an anchor. Different
exercises may require a user to secure one or more resistance bands
to a stationary object at different angles in order to optimize the
effectiveness of the particular exercise being performed.
SUMMARY
[0008] There is still a need in the art for an improved piece of
exercise equipment which helps the user to exercise a number of
different parts of the body effectively and which uses resistance
bands instead of weights as a way to increase the intensity of the
workout as the user gets fitter.
[0009] The system disclosed herein may be used in a gym or in an
outdoor fitness area and includes a way for a person to exercise
their whole body and provides a way for progressively increasing
the intensity of the workout.
[0010] A fitness station for performing exercises using resistance
devices is disclosed herein. The station includes a base anchorable
to a horizontal surface; a support extending upwardly from the
base; a first arm extending outwardly from the support a distance
vertically above the base; a second arm extending outwardly from
the support a distance vertically above the first arm; a third arm
extending outwardly from the support a distance vertically above
the second arm; a fourth arm and fifth arm extending outwardly from
the support generally at about right angles relative to the first
and second arms; wherein the fifth arm is located a distance
vertically beneath the fourth arm. A plurality of attachment
members are provided on one or more of the base, the support, the
first, second or third arms, each attachment members being
configured to selectively secure a resistance device thereto.
[0011] In one aspect, the invention may provide a fitness station
comprising a base adapted to be supported on or anchored to a
horizontal surface; a support extending upwardly from the base; a
first arm extending outwardly from the support a distance away from
the base; and wherein the first arm is adjustably mounted on the
support and is selectively movable toward and away from the base;
and a plurality of first attachment members provided on the base,
each first attachment member being adapted to have a resistance
device selectively secured thereto.
[0012] In another aspect the invention may provide a fitness
station comprising a base adapted to be supported on or anchored to
a horizontal surface; a support extending upwardly from the base; a
first arm extending outwardly from the support a distance
vertically above the base; a second arm extending outwardly from
the support a distance vertically above the first arm; a third arm
extending outwardly from the support a distance vertically above
the second arm; a fourth arm extending outwardly from the support
in a different direction relative to the first and second arms; a
fifth arm extending outwardly from the support in a different
direction relative to the first and second arms; and wherein the
fifth arm is located a distance vertically beneath the fourth arm;
and a plurality of attachment members provided on one or more of
the base, the support, the first arm, the second arm, and the third
arm; each of the plurality of attachment members being adapted to
have a resistance device selectively secured thereto. Still
further, one or both of the first and second arms may be adjustably
mounted to the support.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] A sample embodiment of the invention is set forth in the
following description, is shown in the drawings and is particularly
and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended
claims.
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fitness station in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a front view of the fitness station;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a top view thereof;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the fitness station;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a rear view thereof;
[0019] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-section of a first embodiment of
the first arm of the fitness station taken along line 6-6 of FIG.
1;
[0020] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-section of a second embodiment
of the first arm of the fitness station taken along line 6-6 of
FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a right side view of the fitness station showing a
third embodiment of the first arm of the fitness station and a
second embodiment of the fifth arm thereof; and
[0022] FIG. 9 is an enlarged right side view of a portion of the
fitness station of FIG. 8 showing the fifth arm in an unlocked and
rotated position.
[0023] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] Referring to FIGS. 1-6 there is shown a fitness station in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention, generally
indicated at 10. Fitness station 10 includes a base 12, a support
14, a first arm 16, a second arm 18, a third arm 20, a fourth arm
22, and a fifth arm 23.
[0025] Base 12 is generally H-shaped when viewed from above and
comprises a first base member 24, a second base member 26 and a
first and second crossbar 28, 30 which extend between first and
second base members 24, 26. Base 12 is of a size that a user of
fitness station 10 may stand between first base member 24 and
second base member 26 and either in front of first crossbar 28 or
behind second crossbar 30. Fitness station may be of any desired
size. For example, the overall height of station 10 may vary
between 8 and 12 feet as measured from the bottom surfaces of the
base members 24, 26, 28, 30 to an uppermost region of the inverted
J-shaped support member 38. Each of the first and second base
members 24, 26 may be of any desired length, such as from about 5
feet up to about 12 feet long. At their closest points relative to
each other first and second base members 24, 26 may be spaced
around 3 feet apart from each other but other distances are
possible. Furthermore, the first and second arms 16, 18 may be of
any desired length. For example, each arm portion 56 may be from
about 2 feet up to about 7 feet in length.
[0026] Each of the first and second base members 24, 26 may be an
arcuate component that may be a generally open-C shape. First and
second base members 24, 26 are substantially identical and are
oriented so that they are mirror images of each other. Members 24,
26 are spaced a distance laterally apart from each other and in
such a manner that the base members may curve away from each other.
It will be understood, however, that base members 24, 26 may be of
any other suitable shape and may be more angular than arcuate.
[0027] First base member 24 includes an upper surface 24a, a lower
surface 24b, a first side 24c, a second side 24d, a first end 24e
and a second end 24f. Second base member 26 includes an upper
surface 26a, a lower surface 26b, a first side 26c, a second side
26d, a first end 26e and a second end 26f. First ends 24e, 26e are
generally equidistant from crossbar 28 and second ends 24f, 26f are
generally equidistant from crossbar 28. First and second base
members 24, 26 have a length "L" (FIG. 3) as measured from first
end 24e, 26e through to second end 24f, 26f. First and second base
members 24, 26 may be hollow or substantially solid and may be free
of openings or apertures along their lengths. Leveler legs (not
shown) may extend downwardly from a bottom surface of base members
24, 26 and from bottom surfaces of one or both of first and second
crossbars 28, 30. These leveler legs may be used to level fitness
station 10 on the surface upon which it stands.
[0028] As indicated above, a first crossbar and a second crossbar
28, 30 extend between first and second members 24, 26. First
crossbar 28 is positioned a horizontal distance "L1" from first
ends 24e, 26e. Second crossbar 30 is positioned a horizontal
distance "L2" from first ends 24e, 26e. First crossbar 28 may
therefore be a little more than midway between first ends 24e, 26e
and second ends 24f, 26f. First and second crossbars 28, 30 are
spaced longitudinally from each other such that a gap 32 is defined
between them. First crossbar 28 has an upper surface 28a, a lower
surface 28b, a first end 28c, a second end 28d, a front 28e and a
back 28f. Second crossbar 30 has an upper surface 30a, a lower
surface 30b, a first end 30c, a second end 30d, a front 30e and a
back 30f. First ends 28c, 30c are welded to first side 26c of
second base member 26 and second ends 28d, 30d are welded to first
side 24c of first base member 24.
[0029] It will be understood that instead of two crossbars
extending between first and second base members 24, 26, a single
crossbar may be utilized or more than two crossbars may be
utilized. If a single crossbar is used, then that crossbar may be
of a substantially greater width than either of the first and
second crossbars illustrated herein. It will be understood that the
length and width of the crossbar(s) utilized herein may be varied
but will be selected so that the fitness station has sufficient
strength and rigidity to act as an anchor for the exercises to be
performed therewith.
[0030] Lower surfaces 24b, 26b of first and second base members 24,
26 and lower surfaces 28b, 30b of first and second crossbars 28, 30
are placed on a flat and substantially horizontal support surface
such as the ground or a floor of a gym and base 12 may be anchored
to that ground or floor surface. Base 12 may be anchored by way of
a plurality of bolts that are driven into the support surface or by
the provision of a downwardly extending anchor, such as has been
described in parent application Ser. No. 13/836,359, the
specification of which is incorporated herein.
[0031] Prior to placing fitness station onto the support surface,
an exercise mat 34 may be placed onto the surface. Fitness station
10 may be placed onto the upper surface of the exercise mat 34 and
be anchored to the support surface. The mat 34 may include a grid
comprised of a plurality of markings 34a. The markings 34 may be
squares that are of a particular size, such as one square foot, so
that a person using fitness station 10 is able to stand or lie on
mat 34 in particular specific locations each time they perform
particular exercises. This grid may help a user perform exercises
correctly and be able to consistently replicate the exercises they
perform over a period of time. Mat 34 may be resilient in nature
and provide cushioning for the user as they work out or stretch
using fitness station 10.
[0032] Base 12 may be anchored to the flat and substantially
horizontal surface in any one of a number of ways. For example,
holes may be supplied in first and second base members 24, 26 and
first and second crossbeams 28, 30 and then bolts may be inserted
through these holes and into the surface beneath base. As indicated
previously, leveler legs may be used to ensure fitness station 10
is level and so that it will not be inclined to tip over during
use.
[0033] The upper surfaces 24a, 26a, and 28a of first and second
base members 24, 26 and at least first crossbar 28 are provided
with a plurality of attachment members thereon. Each of the
attachment members is a component which extends upwardly and
outwardly away from the upper surface 24a, 26a of the associated
base member 24, 26 and defines an aperture therein. (While not
illustrated herein, it will be understood that second crossbar 30
may also be provided with attachment members thereon.) The
attachment members are used as components to which a resistance
assembly may be secured when a user desires to utilize resistance
to increase the intensity and effectiveness of their workout. The
resistance assembly or resistance device is selectively securable
to any one of the attachment members by engaging a connector in the
aperture defined by the attachment member. The attachment members
are shaped to enable the resistance device to be oriented at any
one of a range of angles relative to the base members 24, 26 and
even enables the resistance device to be able to pivot relative to
the base members 24, 26. It is contemplated that resistance bands
or cord-type devices may also be engaged with the attachment
members. During exercise the resistance bands or cord-type devices
will be pulled and expand in length, thereby providing resistance
to the performance of the pulling motion. Strap-type devices may
also be engaged herewith.
[0034] One possible type of attachment member which may be suitable
for this purpose is a C-shaped ring which is fixedly and
permanently secured to base 12 as first attachment members 36. Each
of the first attachment members 36 is welded or otherwise securely
engaged with the associated one of the first and second base
members 24, 26 or first crossbar 28. The first attachment members
36 are spaced at intervals from each other and are positioned so as
to extend outwardly from the first or second base member 24, 26 or
first crossbar 28. The interval for placement of first attachment
members 36 may be a regular interval so that adjacent pairs of
first attachment members 36 are spaced the same distance apart from
each other. For example, as shown in the attached figures, first
attachment members 36 may be spaced one foot apart from each other
but it will be understood that other size intervals may be
utilized. Alternatively, the intervals selected during fabrication
of station 10 may be of different sizes. So, the interval between
some adjacent pairs of first attachment members 36 may be one foot
while the interval between other adjacent pairs of first attachment
members 36 may be six inches or eighteen inches.
[0035] The C-shaped rings that are used as first attachment members
36 are passive connections meaning that any resistance assembly
utilized has to be threaded through the ring, tied to the ring or
clipped to the ring. It is possible that the attachment members
used on fitness station could be active in nature. What is meant
about the term "active" is that the attachment member is the
component that is secured to the resistance assembly and not the
other way round. So, for example, instead of a C-shaped ring which
is welded at both ends to first or second base members 24, 26 or
first cross-bar 28 and a hook or clip on a resistance assembly is
threaded through the ring, the attachment member could be a
carabiner-type component which can be opened and closed and thereby
selectively connected to a resistance assembly. Alternatively, a
combination of active and passive attachment members could be
utilized on fitness station 10.
[0036] All of the first attachment members 36 illustrated in the
attached figures comprise C-shaped metal rings that are fixedly
secured to particular components of fitness station 10. It will be
understood the metal rings utilized on fitness station 10 do not
have to be C-shaped components but could be differently shaped. As
shown in the figures, the metal rings provided on each of the first
and second base members 24, 26 are positioned so that each ring is
oriented substantially at right angles to the respective upper
surface 24a or 26a. The metal rings provided as first attachment
members 36 on first crossbar 28, however, may not be oriented
substantially at right angles to upper surface 28a. Instead, the
metal rings may be oriented at an angle other than ninety degrees
relative to upper surface 28a. This can best be seen in FIG. 1. The
angle of the metal rings on first crossbar 28 may be around
45.degree. relative to upper surface 28a.
[0037] Support 14 extends upwardly and outwardly from base 12 and
includes a support member 38 that, when viewed from the right side,
is an upside down J-shape or has the appearance of a question mark.
Support 14 may be fabricated as a segmented component where the
various segments are bolted together during installation.
Alternatively, support 14 may be a monolithic, unitary component. A
semi-circular mounting bracket 40 is secured to upper surface 28a
of first crossbar 28 such as by welding. Support member 38 is
secured to and extends upwardly and outwardly from a central region
of this mounting bracket 40. Support member 38 has an interior
surface 38a which faces forwardly and an exterior surface 38b which
faces rearwardly. Side surfaces extend between interior and
exterior surfaces but these side surfaces are not numbered in the
attached figures. A central region of support member 38 includes a
widened box 42 which extends outwardly and forwardly from interior
surface 38a. As shown in FIG. 2, box region 42 has a front surface
42a and side surfaces 42b, 42c. Each side surface 42b, 42c defines
a vertically extending first slot 44 and a second slot 46 therein.
As is evident from FIG. 4, second slot 46 is located vertically
above first slot 44 and is spaced a distance therefrom. A J-shaped
hook 48 extends downwardly and forwardly from an upper region of
interior surface 38a and third arm 20 is engaged therewith. A
terminal end 38c of support member 38 includes a rearwardly
extending suspension member 50. Suspension member 50 may be
L-shaped and at least one region of the suspension member 50 is
oriented generally parallel to upper surfaces of first and second
base members 24, 26 and a second region of suspension member 50
extends upwardly and generally at right angles to the first region.
The second region forms an upwardly extending lip. One or more
second attachment members 52 may be provided on a lower surface of
the first region of suspension member 50. Second attachment
member(s) 52 may be oriented at right angles relative to first
region of suspension member 50 or they may be orientated at a
different angle relative thereto. Suspension member 50 may be
utilized to perform various suspension exercises by engaging
non-stretchable ropes or straps such as TRX.RTM. straps (sold by
Fitness Anywhere, LLC). Ropes or straps are may be secured to
suspension member 50 utilizing the vertically-oriented upstanding
lip and/or one of second attachment member(s) 52 provided on the
underside of suspension member 50. Alternatively, suspension member
50 may be utilized to suspend other fitness apparatus such as a
heavy punching bag.
[0038] As seen in FIG. 1, an additional plurality of second
attachment members 52 is provided on a lower end of support member
38 a distance vertically above mounting bracket 40. One of the
second attachment members 52 is provided on interior surface 38a
and other second attachment members 52 are provided on each of the
side surfaces of support member 38. The second attachment members
52 may all be located in the same plane as illustrated in FIG. 2
and is oriented generally at right angles to the respective surface
from which it extends. It will be understood, however, that second
attachment members 52 may be located in different planes relative
to each other and they may be oriented at angles other than ninety
degrees to the mounting surface. As with first attachment members
36, second attachment members 52 are welded or otherwise fixedly
secured to the surfaces upon which they are provided.
[0039] Support 14 further includes a brace member 54 which extends
upwardly and outwardly from second crossbar 30 and engages exterior
surface of support member 38 (FIG. 4). Brace member 54 is oriented
at an angle "A" (FIG. 4) relative to upper surface 30a of second
crossbar 30. Angle "A" is less than 90.degree. so that brace member
54 is able to effectively brace support member 38. A first end of
brace member 54 is welded or otherwise secured to second crossbar
30 and a second end of brace member 54 is welded or otherwise
secured to exterior surface of support member 38. The second end of
brace member 54 engages exterior surface of support member 38 at a
location a distance vertically above a bottom end 42c of box region
42 but below first arm 16.
[0040] First arm 16 may be adjustably mounted to support 14 in such
a way that the user is able to selectively vary the distance
between base 12 and first arm 16 by moving first arm 16 along
support 14 either toward or away from base 12, as will be hereafter
described. First arm 16 may be generally U-shaped when viewed from
above and includes a first section 16a and a second section 16b.
First and second sections 16a, 16b are substantially identical to
each other but are mounted to support member 38 in such a manner
that they are mirror images of each other. Each of the first and
second sections 16a, 16b is generally L-shaped and comprises a
generally laterally extending first arm portion 56 and a forward
extending second arm portion 58. First and second sections 16a, 16b
may be generally circular in cross section but they can be of any
other cross-sectional shape.
[0041] A clamping assembly 60 may independently and adjustably
secure each first arm portion 56 to support member 38. Clamping
assembly 60 includes a clamp 62 and a base plate 64. Clamp 62
comprises a clamshell-type device comprising a first half and a
second half that are substantially identical and are positioned
adjacent each other. Each of the first and second halves of the
clamp 62 has a flat upper region 62a, a flat lower region 62b
(shown on a clamp 62 on first arm 16 in FIG. 6) and a curved
mid-section 62c (FIG. 4). The radius of curvature of mid-section
62c is substantially identical to the radius of curvature of the
first arm portions 56 of first and second sections 16a, 16b. When
the first and second halves of clamp 62 are positioned adjacent
each other, the curved mid-sections 62c are placed so as to define
a generally circular bore through clamp 62. As best seen in FIG. 6,
the first end of each first arm portion 56 is received through this
bore and when the first and second halves are secured to each
other, the first ends are tightly retained in the bore. It will be
understood that if first arm portion 56 is of a non-circular
configuration, the inside surface of the clamp 62c would be shaped
to mate with the outside surface of first arm portion 56.
[0042] Clamp 62 is at least partially secured to plate 64. The
first half of clamp 62 is welded or otherwise secured to plate 64
and thus, when plate 64 moves, the first half of clamp 62 moves in
unison therewith. The second half of clamp 62 is not welded to
plate 64 and is detachably secured to the first half of clamp 62.
This detachability enables the end of first arm portion 56 to be
received into the bore defined by curved sections 62c. Fasteners 66
(FIG. 6) are passed through apertures 68 in upper and lower
sections 62a, 62b of the first and second halves of clamp 62 and
are tightened to lock the end of first arm portion 56 therebetween.
In order to make it easier to accomplish the tightening motion, a
handle 70 is provided on each fastener 66. Moving the handle 70 in
a first direction loosens the fastener 66 and this makes it
possible for the second half of clamp 62 to be moved away from the
first half thereof. Moving the handle 70 (FIG. 2) in a second
direction tightens the fastener 66, thereby moving second half of
clamp 62 toward first half thereof and clamping first arm portion
56 therein.
[0043] As best seen in FIG. 6, base plate 64 is located adjacent
one or the other of side surfaces 42b, 42c of box region 42 of
support member 38. Fasteners 72 secure base plate 64 and thereby
the first half of clamp 62 to support member 38. Fasteners 72 each
include a shaft which extends through apertures 74 in base plate 64
and into slot 44 in box region 42. A handle 76 is engaged with each
fastener 72. When handle 76 is moved in a first direction, the
fastener 72 is slightly loosened and the base plate 64 is then free
to be moved either upwardly or downwardly relative to the
associated side surface 42b or 42c of box region 42. This
up-and-down sliding motion is parallel to a longitudinal axis "Y"
(FIG. 6) of support member 38 as is indicated by arrow "B" in this
figure. The sliding motion enables the user to selectively and
independently adjust the vertical height of the one or the other of
the associated first or second section 16a, 16b of first arm 16
relative to the upper surface 28a of first crossbar 28. Thus, first
and second sections 16a, 16b may be independently moved toward or
away from base 12 so that the selected section of first arm 16 is
at a desired height for a particular exercise.
[0044] In an alternative arrangement clamps 62 may be secured to
support member 38 in a different way. In this alternative
arrangement the bolt used to secure clamp to support member 38 may
be a carriage bolt that is inserted from the outside of the box 42
into the interior and nuts are positioned in the interior of the
box 42. This leaves only the rounded carriage bolt head exposed and
prevents unauthorized adjustment of the arm height.
[0045] When the first or second section 16a or 16b is moved to the
desired height, then clamp 62 is locked in place so that further
longitudinal motion is prevented. This locking of clamp 62 is
accomplished by engaging handle 76. When the handle 76 is rotated
in a second direction, the fastener 72 is tightened once again and
sliding motion of base plate 64 in either of an upward direction or
a downward direction is effectively prevented. At this point, the
selected section 16a or 16b is in the desired position for engaging
one or more resistance bands or resistance assemblies with one or
more of a plurality of third attachment members 78 provided on
first arm 16. When the resistance band or assembly is so secured,
the user is able to perform any one of a plurality of selected
exercises.
[0046] The third attachment members 78 are located on first arm 16
at spaced intervals from each other. Third attachment members 78
may, again, be C-shaped rings that are welded or otherwise secured
to first arm 16. The rings may be oriented at right angles to a
front face of first arm 16 and may be provided on one or both of
the first and second arm portions 56, 58 of first arm 16. Third
attachment members 78 may be provided on more than one face of the
first arm 16. The third attachment members 78 may be provided at
regular intervals relative to each other, such as at a distance of
one foot apart from each other. As with the first attachment
members 36 and second attachment members 52 discussed earlier
herein, differently shaped third attachment members 78 may be
utilized, the spacing interval between adjacent third attachment
members 78 may be other than regular, and the orientation thereof
may be other than at right angles relative to the face of the first
arm 16 upon which the third attachment members 78 are provided.
[0047] Clamping assemblies 60 may make it possible for the
orientation of each of the first and second sections 16a, 16b to be
changed. This is accomplished by rotating the selected first or
second section 16a or 16b about a horizontal axis "X" (FIG. 6)
which extends along the length of the sections 16a, 16b. The
possible rotational motion is indicated by the arrow "C" in FIG. 6.
This rotational motion may be desired to position the third
attachment members 78 at a different location or orientation
relative to support member 38 in order to perform any desired
exercise that requires such placement of third attachment members
78. The rotational adjustment is accomplished by loosening
fasteners 68 to a degree sufficient to enable the selected first or
second section 16a or 16b to rotate within the bore defined by the
central regions 62c of clamp 62. Fasteners 68 are partially
loosened by rotating handles 70 in a first direction. Once
fasteners 68 are loosened, the first or second section 16a or 16b
is rotated into the desired position, fasteners 68 are tightened
once again by rotating handles 70 in a second direction thereby
enabling clamp 62 to retain the first end of first or second
section 16a, 16b in the new orientation.
[0048] Second arm 18 is engaged with support 14 a distance
vertically above first arm 16. As illustrated in FIG. 4 first arm
16 may be oriented generally horizontally or at a slight angle "D"
above the horizontal. This angle "D" may be in the order of from
about 5.degree. to about 10.degree. above the horizontal. Second
arm 18 may be oriented at an angle "E" above the horizontal. This
angle "E" may be in the order of from about 15.degree. to about
25.degree. relative to the horizontal.
[0049] Second arm 18 may be adjustably mounted to support 14 in a
substantially identical manner to the way first arm 16 is mounted
thereto. Second arm 18 also functions in a substantially identical
fashion to first arm 16. Second arm 18 is generally U-shaped when
viewed from above and is comprised of a first section 18a and a
second section 18b. Each of the first and second sections 18a, 18b
is an L-shaped component comprised of a first arm portion 56 and a
second arm portion 58. First arm portions 56 may be independently
and adjustably mounted by way of clamping assemblies 60 to box
region 42 of support member 38. Clamping assemblies 60 however,
include fasteners 72 which extend into second slot 46 instead of
into first slot 44. The height of each of the first and second
sections 18a, 18b of second arm 18 may be independently adjustable
relative to upper surface 28a of first crossbar 28 in the same
manner as was described herein with respect to the adjustment of
first and second sections 16a, 16b of first arm 16. Additionally,
the orientation of first and second sections 18a, 18b may be
changed by rotating the same within the associated clamping
assembly 60 in the same manner as has been described with reference
to the rotation of first and second sections 16a, 16b of first arm
16.
[0050] A plurality of fourth attachment members 80 is provided at
intervals along first and second sections 18a, 18b of second arm
18. Fourth attachment members 80 may, again, be C-shaped rings that
are welded or otherwise secured to second arm 18 in a similar
manner to third attachment members 78 on first arm 16. Rotation of
first or second sections 18a, 18b may be undertaken in order to
vary the angle and position of the respective fourth attachment
members 80 provided thereon in order to perform any desired
exercise.
[0051] As best seen in FIG. 2, third arm 20 is engaged with support
member 38. Third arm 20 is an arcuate member that may be generally
circular in cross-section (FIG. 4). Third arm 20 is welded or
otherwise secured to J-shaped hook 48 which extends downwardly from
a top region of interior surface 38a of support member 38. Third
arm 20 curves downwardly on either side of support member 38. A
plurality of fifth attachment members 82 are welded or otherwise
secured to one of the faces of third arm 20. That face may be a
downwardly facing face as illustrated in FIG. 2 but it will be
understood that other face(s) may be provided with fifth attachment
members 82 instead of the downward facing face or in addition
thereto. Fifth attachment members 82 may be similar to first,
second, third, and fourth attachment members, 36, 52, 78, 80 and
may be engaged with and oriented on third arm 20 in substantially
the same way as the other attachment members 36, 52, 78, 80 are
engaged with the other components of fitness station 10 set out
above.
[0052] Each of the fourth and fifth arms 22, 23 is attached to
support member 38 and is a generally U-shaped component when viewed
from above (FIG. 3). The mountings of fourth and fifth arms 22, 23
are on a plane that is generally at ninety degrees to the mountings
of first and second arms 22, 23. Fourth arm 22 is mounted to
exterior surface 38b of support member 38 by way of mounting
bracket 84 (FIG. 4). Bracket 84 secures fourth arm 22 to support 14
in a fixed orientation; that orientation being slightly angled
upwardly as shown in FIG. 4. Bracket 84 engages support member 38
at a location that is generally aligned with a middle region of
second slot 46. It is possible that bracket 84 could be of a type
which pivotally secures fourth arm 22 to support 14. In this latter
instance, fourth arm 22 could be pivoted up and down during the
performance of an exercise.
[0053] Fourth arm 22 may include a crossbeam 86 (FIG. 4) that
extends between opposed sections of fourth arm 22 to provide the
user with a variety of hand grips to facilitate different
exercises. Crossbeam 86 may be removable to allow users of handle
90 and 94 full range of exercise motion without interference from
crossbeam 86. Inwardly extending first handles 88 are provided at
each end of fourth arm 22 and first handles 88 are each provided
with a cushioning grip 90 thereon. A pair of second handles 92
extends outwardly from fourth arm 22 a distance vertically beneath
first handles 88. Second handles 92 extend inwardly toward each
other at a different angle from the angle at which first handles 88
extend inwardly toward each other. Cushioning grips 94 are provided
on the ends of second handles 92. Fourth arm 22 may be utilized for
a variety of different exercises such as pull-ups or chin-ups.
[0054] Fifth arm 23 is a generally U-shaped member that is mounted
on exterior surface 38b of support member 38 by way of a mounting
bracket 96. A first embodiment of fifth arm 23 is shown in FIG. 4.
Fifth arm 23 may be mounted on support member 38 at a level that is
aligned with approximately midway along length of first slot 44.
Bracket 96 secures fifth arm 23 to support 14 in a fixed and
unchangeable orientation. Fifth arm 23 may be oriented so that it
is substantially horizontally mounted and is generally parallel to
upper surfaces 24a, 26a of first and second base members 24, 26. A
cushioning grip 98 is provided on each end of fifth arm 23. Fifth
arm 23 may be used as a dip bar for performing triceps-dips or
other similar exercises.
[0055] FIG. 7 shows a second embodiment of the first arm, generally
indicated at 116. First arm 116 may be adjustably mounted to
support 14. In particular, the distance between first arm 116 and
base 12 is selectively variable by moving first arm 116 toward or
away from base 12. First arm 116, like first arm 16, is generally
U-shaped when viewed from above and comprises a first section 116a
and a second section 116b. First and second sections 116a, 116b are
substantially identical to each other and are mounted in such a
manner that they are mirror images of each other relative to
support member 38. Each of the first and second sections 116a, 116b
is generally L-shaped and comprises a generally laterally-extending
first arm portion 156a and a forward-extending second arm portion
156b (not shown in FIG. 7 but substantially identical to second arm
portion 58). First and second sections 116a, 116b may be generally
circular in cross section.
[0056] A clamping assembly 160 secures each first arm portion 156
to support member 38. Clamping assembly 160 includes a clamp 162
and a base plate 164. Clamp 162 is substantially identical to clamp
62 and functions in the same manner. Clamp 162 comprises a
clamshell-type device comprising a first half and a second half
that are substantially identical. Each of the first and second
halves of the clamp 162 has a flat upper region 162a and a flat
lower region 162b and a curved mid-section 162c. The radius of
curvature of mid-section 162c is substantially identical to the
radius of curvature of the first leg portions 156. One or the other
of the first and second halves of clamp 162 is welded to plate 164.
The other of the first and second halves of clamp 162 is not welded
to plate 164. One end of first arm portion 156 of the associated
first or second section 116a, 116b is received in the bore defined
by curved mid-sections 162c clamp 162. Fasteners 166 pass through
apertures 168 in upper and lower sections 162a, 162b and are
tightened to clamp the end of first arm portion 156 therebetween. A
handle (not shown in FIG. 7 but similar to handle 70) is used to
rotate fasteners 166 in either of the first and second directions
as described in reference to fasteners 66 and handles 70.
[0057] First arm 116 differs from first arm 16 in that plates 164
of clamping assemblies 160 link first and second sections 116a,
116b thereof in such a way that the sections 116a, 116b may be
vertically adjustable in unison with each other. The first and
second sections 116a and 116b may be connected together in any one
of a number of ways, one of those possible ways being illustrated
in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows that a first base plate 164 is detachably
engaged with an end of first section 116a and a second base plate
164 is detachably engaged with an end of second section 116b. The
first and second base plates 164 are located adjacent side surfaces
42b, 42c of box region 42 on support member 38. First and second
base plates 164 are fixedly connected together in any suitable
manner. One such manner is illustrated in FIG. 7; that way being
the use of fasteners 172 which extend through aligned apertures 174
in first and second base plates 164 and through first slot 44. When
connected in this manner, when the first base plate 164 slides up
or down side surface 42b, then the second base plate 164 will also
slide up or down side surface 42c. A handle 176 is engaged with
each fastener 172. When handles 176 are rotated in a first
direction, the associated fasteners 172 are slightly loosened and
first and second base plates 164 are free to slide, in unison,
either upwardly or downwardly relative to the associated side
surface 42b or 42c of box region 42. As the base plates 164 move
upwardly or downwardly along box region 42, the entire first arm
116 is raised or lowered relative to base members 24, 26. When the
desired vertical position of first and second sections 116a, 116b
is attained then handles 176 are rotated in a second direction to
lock first and second base plates 164 in that vertical
position.
[0058] A similar clamping arrangement may also be provided on
second arm 18 to enable the entire second arm 18 to be vertically
adjusted relative to base members 24, 26.
[0059] It will be understood that other mechanisms for linking
first and second sections of either of the first and second arms
116, 18 together so that they move vertically as a unit may be
provided on fitness station 10. It will further be understood that
if either of the first and second arms 116, 18 are comprised of two
separate sections, such as sections 116a and 116b, then independent
rotational motion "C" about the horizontal axis "X" may still be
possible.
[0060] It will further be understood that one or both of first and
second arms 116, 18 may be comprised of a single unitary component
instead of two separate sections and the unitary first or second
arm 116, 18 may be caused to be vertically adjustable in any other
fashion. Depending on the way this unitary first or second arm 116,
18 is mounted to support member 38, unitary rotational motion "C"
about horizontal axis "X" may also be possible.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, fitness station 10 may be
provided with a second embodiment of the fifth arm or dip bar,
generally indicated at 223. Fifth arm 223 is mounted to support
member 38 by way of a mounting bracket 296. Mounting bracket 296
may be any type of bracket which permits fifth arm 223 to be
selectively rotated relative to support member 38. For example,
bracket 296 may include a U-shaped shaft 300 which has cushioning
grips 298 at either end. A central region of shaft 300 passes
through a sleeve 297 provided on bracket 296. A spring member is
provided on bracket 296 to urge shaft 300 into a default rest
position. In that rest position the fifth arm 223 may, for example,
be generally horizontally oriented. Bracket 296 may permit fifth
arm 223 to be pivoted between a first position P1 (FIG. 9), a
second position P2 and a third position P3. Bracket 296 may be of a
type which permits fifth arm 223 to be reciprocally pivoted up and
down during the performance of an exercise. The possible pivotal
motion is indicated by arrow "F" in FIG. 9. First position P1 and
second position P2 are shown in phantom in FIG. 9 and the third
position P3 is shown in solid lines. Second position P2 is where
shaft 300 of fifth arm 223 is generally horizontal and parallel to
base members 24, 26 and may be the at rest position. First position
P1 is where shaft 300 is located at an angle "G" above the
horizontal second position P2. Third position P3 is where shaft 300
is located at an angle "G" below second position P2. Fifth arm 223
may be pivoted between first and third positions P1, P3 in some
instances or may be pivoted only between first and second positions
P1, P2 or between second and third positions P2, P3. The range of
pivotal motion may be selectable by the user in order to perform
different types of exercises. It will be understood that the angle
"G" may be a pre-determined angle set by the manufacturer of
fitness station 10 by providing a suitable mounting bracket 296
that permits this pre-determined range of motion. By way of example
only, angle "G" may be from about 20.degree. to about 90.degree.
relative to the horizontal. Alternatively, bracket 296 may be of a
type which permits the user to select how far down or how far up he
or she wishes to pivot fifth arm 223. The user may be able to pivot
fifth arm 223 downwardly by grasping grips 298 and pushing
downwardly thereon. The user may be able to pivot fifth arm 223
upwardly by grasping grips 298 and pulling the same upwardly. This
pivotal motion of fifth arm 223 may be utilized to perform
exercises such as triceps-dips. Fifth arm 223 may be moved through
90.degree. to move the arm out of the way during the performance of
exercises that do not require this arm. Fifth arm 223 may also be
rotated to collapse it against support member 38 for storage
purposes or if fitness station 10 needs to be moved. (It should be
noted that fourth arm 22 may also be secured to support member 38
by a bracket that enables fourth arm 22 to pivot out of the way
during the performance of various exercises or for storage
purposes, or if fitness station 10 needs to be moved.)
[0062] Fifth arm 223 includes a locking member for securing fifth
arm 223 against pivotal motion when selectively positioned in one
or another of the first, second or third positions P1, P2, P3. One
suitable locking member may be a pin 299 as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.
Pin 299 may be passed through aligned holes (not shown) in sleeve
297 and shaft 300 to lock the fifth arm 223 against pivotal motion
(FIG. 8). When pin 299 is withdrawn from the aligned holes (as
shown in FIG. 9), fifth arm 223 may be pivoted relative to support
member 38 in the manner previously described herein. The locking
member may be any other suitable locking mechanism that prevents or
limits pivotal motion of fifth arm 223.
[0063] FIG. 8 also shows a third embodiment of the first arm,
generally indicated in this figure at 216. First arm 216 includes
additional attachment members 278 which may be provided at
intervals on one or more of bottom, top, and rear surfaces of first
arm 216 as well as on the front surface thereof.
[0064] In accordance with another aspect of the invention and as
shown in FIG. 8, attachment members 301 may also be provided on
upper and/or lower surfaces of shaft 300 of fifth arm 223. Some
type of resistance band (not shown in these figures) may be engaged
between any selected attachment member 301 on fifth arm 223 and any
selected attachment member 278 of first arm 216 to increase the
resistance to the pivotal motion of fifth arm 223 as indicated by
arrow "F". This increased resistance may be desirable as a user
gets fitter and stronger.
[0065] Substantially all of the first, third, fourth, and fifth
attachment members 36, 78, 80 and 82, 278 and 301 are illustrated
herein as being spaced at regular intervals from each other along
surfaces of the associated base 12, first arm 16/216, second arm
18, third arm 20, and fifth arm 223. The intervals may be about one
foot apart on each of these components. However, the spacing
intervals of the attachment members may be different for each of
the components upon which they are provided. Alternatively,
differently sized intervals between attachment members may be
utilized along the length of any one or more of the components upon
which the attachment members are provided. The specific placement
of the various attachment members may therefore be other than
illustrated herein and be determined in accordance with the types
of exercise that will be able to be performed on fitness station
10.
[0066] It should further be noted that while the various attachment
members 36, 52, 78, 80, 82 are illustrated as being provided on
only one surface of the associated arms, these attachment members
may be provided on more than one surface of any one or more of the
arms, such as is illustrated with respect to arm 216 (having
attachment members 278) and arm 223 (having attachment members
301). For example, third attachment members 78 may be provided on a
top surface, a bottom surface and a rear surface of first arm 16 in
addition to the illustrated placement on the front surface
thereof.
[0067] Additionally, the angles at which any of the attachment
members 36, 52, 78, 80, 82, 278, 301 are provided on any particular
arm may be other that what has been illustrated herein. Still
further, not all the angles of the attachment members on a single
arm need be of the same orientation relative to the surface of the
arm or relative to each other. Some attachment members may be
installed at right angles to the surface on which they are mounted
or they may be at an angle other than ninety degrees thereto.
Furthermore, not all the attachment members need to be aligned
along the same plane or in the same orientation relative to each
other on a single component. For example, on the first arm 16
attachment members 78 are all illustrated as being horizontally
oriented. At least some of those attachment members 78 could be
turned through ninety degrees relative to the surface on which they
are mounted and could be vertically oriented or they may be mounted
at angles other than ninety degrees.
[0068] Still further, it will be understood that attachment members
may be provided on support member 38 and may further be provided on
any surface on support member 38.
[0069] Fitness station 10 is used by securing one or more
resistance devices with any one or more selected attachment members
in order to perform a particular type of exercise with the
resistance device. The attachment members and fitness station 10
acts as an anchor for these resistance devices. The types of
exercises that may be performed using fitness station 10 have been
more fully discussed in the parent application Ser. No. 13/836,359,
the entire specification of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0070] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used
for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of
the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes
and are intended to be broadly construed.
[0071] Moreover, the description and illustration set out herein
are an example and the invention is not limited to the exact
details shown or described.
* * * * *