1689results about "Weights" patented technology

An exercise machine having a rolling platform and adjustable bar members. The platform is supported on frame rails, and is biased by springs towards an end of the machine. The rails have a rectangular cross-section angled 45° to horizontal, and roller assemblies on the platform include wheels angled to engage the surfaces of the rails substantially normal thereto. The adjustable bar assemblies include upwardly extending bars having upper members that are rotatable about a generally vertical axis so that handle portions at the upper ends thereof extend in different direction. At least one of the bar assemblies is also selectively pivotable about a horizontal axis to positions in which it is engaged by a locking assembly on the frame of the machine. The machine enables the user to perform a wide variety of exercises in reclined, prone, seated and standing positions, both on and off the platform.

A device is disclosed that provides a portable, programmable, interactive apparatus that instructs, monitors, tracks, and provides feedback and motivational information to an individual in regards to managing their personal physical fitness information. One embodiment of the device comprises a housing configured to be carried by the user, a display for displaying information to the user, a memory for storing data relating to programs, workouts, exercises and user inputted data. The device further contains an interface operable by the user to select and input data, and a processor in communication with the display, the interface, and the memory operable to control the display and to control the storage and retrieval of data from the memory. The device enables a user to program and view their personalized programs, workout routines, video instructions, or nutrition plans, while at remote locations. The device may also be connected to external computers and connected to the Internet for downloading information such as personalized fitness and nutrition programs and for uploading and storing personal information such as user inputted data to an external computer or the Internet.

A system for advising an exerciser about his physical activities, associated either with displacement of the exerciser itself or of an object displaced by the exerciser, or an object displaced simultaneously with the exerciser. The system comprises a first unit for monitoring the activities. This unit is not in physical contact with the exerciser or the object, displaced by the exerciser. The first unit is capable to collect raw data defining the activities either in terms of distance or acceleration. The first unit transmits the collected raw data in a wireless fashion to a second unit, which receives the transmitted raw data, processes it and calculates various parameters, defining the said physical activities, and represents the calculated parameters in a form recognizable by the exerciser. The system enables tracking, recording and updating the relevant information, provides improved feedback and thus helps to the exercising individual to improve his performances.

An exercise machine having a rolling platform and adjustable bar members. The platform is supported on frame rails, and is biased by springs towards an end of the machine. The rails have a rectangular cross-section, angled 45° to horizontal, and roller assemblies on the platform include roller wheels angled to engage the surfaces of the rails substantially normal thereto. The adjustable bar assemblies include upwardly extending bars having upper members that are rotatable about a generally vertical axis so that handle portions at the upper ends thereof extend in different directions for differing exercises. At least one of the bar assemblies is also selectively pivotable about a horizontal axis to positions in which it is engaged by a locking assembly on the frame of the machine. The machine enables the user to perform a wide variety of exercises in reclined, prone, seated and standing positions, both on and off the platform.

An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read / write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system. A method for controlling an exercise apparatus includes running a modifiable script on a local computer to control the use and to monitor the operation of an exercise apparatus, and communicating with a remote system to provide the remote system with data concerning the use of the exercise apparatus. The script is stored in read / write memory of the local computer and remote system data received from the remote system may include at least a portion of a new script to be stored in the read / write memory of the local computer.

A retractable wall mounted exercise rack system for providing an exercise rack that may be easily and compactly stored when not in use. The retractable wall mounted exercise rack system generally includes one or more brackets attached to a wall, a pair of support members, and a plurality of arms pivotally extending from the brackets and pivotally connecting to the support members. One or more actuators are connected between the brackets and the arms to assist in lifting the structure into a compact retracted position for storage.

An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read / write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system. A method for controlling an exercise apparatus includes running a modifiable script on a local computer to control the use and to monitor the operation of an exercise apparatus, and communicating with a remote system to provide the remote system with data concerning the use of the exercise apparatus. The script is stored in read / write memory of the local computer and remote system data received from the remote system may include at least a portion of a new script to be stored in the read / write memory of the local computer.

The invention relates to the field of abdominal exercise with the operator using the sit-up or crunch movements. More particularly, an exercise apparatus that exercises the abdominal and back muscles with the lower torso of the operator supported by a moving seat while the upper torso of the operator is supported by a moving seatback. Continuous support of the lower back prevents back strain. The articulation of the seatback is coordinated with the movement of the seat. Adjustment is provided to adjust the rate of movement of the seat relative to the seatback. Handles are provided such that the arm muscles can assist the sit-up or crunch movements.

In one example, a strength training system includes a folding frame having a central sub-frame and first and second lateral sub-frames, and pivoting cross members pivotally coupling the central sub-frame to at least one of the first and second lateral sub-frames, the folding frame being configured to move between an unfolded position and a folded position in which the first and second lateral sub-frames are generally parallel in the unfolded position. The strength training system also includes a strength training assembly coupled to the folding frame. The strength training system may include a pulley machine that includes pulleys and cables. In at least one example, the pulleys and cables may be secured to the folding frame in a pre-assembled manner. Further, in at least one example, the strength training system may be assembled without the use of tools.

An exercise machine composed of a frame, a first four bar linkage system, a second four bar linkage system, and a means for transferring an incident force from the legs of a user is disclosed. The first four bar linkage system is operably mounted on the frame and operably connects the transferring means to the frame to allow for back and forth movement of the transferring means along a path of travel about an instantaneously changing axis of rotation. The second four bar linkage system operably engages the first four bar linkage system. Either or both of the first four bar linkage system and the second four bar linkage system are operably connected to a resistance means, whereby the second four bar linkage system operates in conjunction with the first four bar linkage system and the resistance means to create a mechanical disadvantage to the user.

An exercise repetition sensor comprises an electricity generator, such as an electricity generator, which is coupled to an exercise system, where the electricity generator is capable of sensing exercise movements of any size or intensity on the exercise system. The electricity generator can be based on a number of electrical, magnetic, or optical sensing principles. For example, an electricity generator comprising an electricity generator includes a spindle that is coupled to one or more parts that move in proportion to an applied force. The voltage-generator generates an electrical current as the spindle moves, and sends the electrical current to an electronic display interface. In one embodiment, the voltage-generator sends a positive direct current through one of two circuit wires to the electronic console, such that the electronic console can immediately identify that the user has performed an exercise repetition.

Aspects of the present invention relate to a weight stack including a weight selector mechanism providing an adjustable source of resistance for use with a variety of load bearing exercise devices. The weight stack can include a plurality of weight plates stacked one on top of another. The weight selection mechanism can include a weight selector member extending through and adapted to selectively connect with each weight plate. The weight selector member can include a plurality of projections adapted to selectively engage engagement surfaces in the weight plates. A user can rotate the weight selector member with a selector knob to connect the desired number of weights to be lifted with the weight selector member. Embodiments of the weight stack can also include a locking mechanism that prevent a user from turning the weight selector member once a sufficient lifting force is applied to the selected weight plates.

An exercise device that includes an upper frame with a user support that cantilevers over a lower frame provides for reduced storage and the potential for shipping in a pre-assembled state. The upper frame is supported by the lower frame with a rolling element there between. The rolling element can be in the form of rollers that are rotatably mounted to the foot portion of the upper frame and the head portion of the lower frame. The rolling element can also take the form of one of more rollers, which constantly articulate with each of the upper and lower frames. A spring bias is included to provide a resistance to movement of the upper frame with respect to the lower frame. The lower frame, and therefore the supported upper frame, can also be pivotally mounted to a base frame, thereby enabling the upper frame to be positioned in an inclined state. A pair of handles may also be used to actuate a cable that provides movement of the upper frame relative to the lower frame by displacement of the foot portion of the upper frame toward the head portion of the lower frame.

A therapeutic device, such as an exercise device, includes the principles of osteogenic repair by incorporating a vibrational loading mechanism into the exercise device. By doing so, the therapeutic device provides an increased osteogenic effect, thereby enhancing the benefits of the therapy. As an example, an exercise device includes a support surface for supporting all or part of the bodily tissue of an individual using the device. A linear or rotary vibrational loading mechanism associated with the frame or a rotational element of the exercise device drives the support surface at a selected load and frequency, thereby inducing mechanical loading of bodily tissue adjacent to the support surface sufficiently to facilitate the growth, development, strengthening, and / or healing of bone tissue. The vibrational loading mechanism may be incorporated into any exercise device, including standard exercise devices such as rowing machines, stair climbing machines, elliptical trainers, bicycles, cross-country ski trainers, treadmills, or weight trainers.

A multiple exercise performance or positioning apparatus comprising a generally upright stationary frame on which is mounted an elongated arm mechanism which is mounted on a pivot mechanism, the arm mechanism extending from a proximal end to a distal end relative to the frame, the pivot mechanism enabling pivoting of the arm mechanism such that the distal end of the arm mechanism is adjustably movable between positions of variable distance away from the frame, wherein a cable mechanism is mounted around one or more pulleys, the cable mechanism having a first end interconnected to a handle mechanism which is mounted at the distal end of the elongated arm mechanism, the cable mechanism being interconnected to a weight resistance mechanism such that a user may grasp and pull the handle mechanism against an opposing force exerted by the weight resistance mechanism through the cable mechanism.

An adjustable carriage assembly is configured to be mounted on a frame member of a weight rack and includes a locking structure for locking the carriage assembly in place on the frame member. The carriage assembly may include a moveable carriage with a plurality of rollers that engage the frame member, as well as one or more handles for gripping to adjust the position of the carriage assembly and a connection structure for connection of an implement or accessory. Various implements and accessories can be connected to or used in connection with the carriage assembly, including various weightlifting implements and accessories that are pivotably connected to the carriage assembly.

An exercise device and methods for strengthening the muscles of lower back and abdomen. The device may be configured to impart extension to the spine of a user. The device may include a reclinable chair having a backrest pivotally attached to a seat. The backrest may be pivotally declined backwards in relation to the seat by a user during exercise. The device may include a decline control mechanism that is selectively operable to resist the decline of the backrest, to limit the maximum angle of decline of the backrest relative to the seat, or both.

An abdominal training apparatus designed to be used by a seated exerciser for concentrated training of the abdominal muscles, comprising an upper portion and a lower portion pivotably suspended from a base, the upper portion and lower portion being linked together causing them to rotate in opposite directions from, in a fixed angular proportion to, one another. The apparatus includes weight addition means on the upper and lower portions to respectively increase and decrease the force required to perform the crunch exercise, so as to accommodate both advanced and beginning exercisers as well as those with injured or weak abdominal muscles. The apparatus further includes a pivotably mounted seat portion enabling the apparatus to be used by an exerciser to target both the oblique and the frontal abdominal muscles.

A method of developing a workout comprising a series of exercises and communicating the workout to a user is disclosed that involves identifying a muscle group to use during a workout, selecting an intensity level for exercising the muscle group, selecting an exercise from a plurality of exercises for exercising the muscle group, selecting a routine from a plurality of routines for performing each of the plurality of exercises at the selected intensity level, each of the plurality of routines comprising a number of repetitions, selecting a resistance level related to the maximum resistance the user was able to manipulate on a first exercise machine, selecting a second exercise machine for performing the selected exercise, and displaying a workout comprising an identification of the second exercise machine, a name of an exercise to be performed on the second exercise machine, a resistance level to be used in performing the named exercise on the second exercise machine, and information relating to the number of repetitions and sets to be performed. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

A multi-exercise rotary device, comprising: at least one elongate body-supported member, the body-supported member having a first end adapted to be supported by the body of the user, and a second end opposite the first end, at least one rotating member having a longitudinal axis that is at least semi-rigid, and which axis has a weight-biased distribution toward a distal end thereof; and a rotary mechanism for coupling the rotating member to a point on the body-supported member which is near the second end thereof. The rotary mechanism allows rotational movement of the rotating member about the longitudinal axis of the body-supported member. The rotary mechanism includes a device for constraining the angular movement between the weight-biased longitudinal axis of the rotating member and the longitudinal axis of the body-supported unit to be substantially only in a predetermined plane axially aligned with the body-supported member, and for constraining said plane from twisting with respect to the longitudinal axis of said body-supported member.

An exercise machine for exercising muscles in the back of an exerciser, includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a stroke path between an upper forward position and a lower rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by the exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes. Also, the extension members are of sufficient length and the extension members are attached to the movement arm (preferably via universal ball joints) so that the handles can be separated by a distance of at least 24 inches when the movement arm is in the rearward position. In this configuration, the exerciser has the option of performing the basic lat pulldown motion with the hands in any orientation, and can pull the handles to multiple positions in front of the chest and shoulders or outside the chest and shoulders.

Fitness machines with attached machine parameter sensors send machine parameter data over a local area network to a computer where the sensed data is stored and processed. The processed data is made available to a user to show machine adjustments made in previous workouts, the number of repetitions made as well as other exercise or health related parameters. Other data which can be entered into the computer includes, for example, a user's body dimensions, if any soreness was felt during or immediately after a workout and data from body monitors worn during the workout to monitor, for example, heart rate. The computer can have data on different exercise regimes and application data for suggesting a workout regime for a particular user.

An apparatus (1) for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise, equipped with a fitness tool (2) configured to interact with the user (3) to enable the user to perform a movement along a preset path overcoming the force of a resistant load (7), comprises: sensing means (4) set up to provide a signal representing the movement of the user (3); feedback means (5) for transmitting a signal to the user (3) during performance of the exercise; a processor (6) connected to the sensing means (4) and to the feedback means (5) to provide the user (3) with feedback in real time on the correctness of performance of the exercise, based on a comparison between the signal representing the movement of the user and a predetermined reference pattern representing an ideal pattern for the movement of the user (3) corresponding to the exercise performed correctly.

The present invention provides a collapsible exercise apparatus, generally comprising a riser assembly, a carriage assembly, riser assembly support means, and peripheral attachments. The riser assembly further comprises a pair of parallel riser members and the carriage assembly further comprises a riser-engaging end. The riser-engaging end is received between the riser members in a carriage assembly-receiving track. The user may thus selectively incline the carriage assembly in the carriage assembly-receiving track in this operational state for exerting muscular effort against varying degrees of the user's own body weight resistance to achieve some level of physical activity or as part of an otherwise regular exercise regimen. To enable easy horizontal transferability, for example, during shipping or when not in use, the carriage assembly is easily nested within the carriage assembly-receiving track. Additionally, no tools are required to assemble or collapse the exercise apparatus.

A counterweight exercise machine has a frame. The frame comprises two main guide rods; two sub-guide rods; a passive rod parallel to the two main guide rods; at least one main weight; a selector; a base having a lower substrate and an upper substrate; and two sleeves connected to the lower substrate and the upper substrate; at least one pin capable of passing through the round holes of the front sheet and the rear sheet and the passive rod; and at least one sub-weight. By above mentioned components, the selector serves to lock a predetermined number of main weights and the pin inserts into the sub-weight so as to increase the total weight. A force applied unit serves to drive the passive rod to drive the main weight and the sub-weight to operate along the main guide rods and sub-guide rods to achieve the object of training the muscle.

The present invention is an exercise machine for exercising latissimus dorsi muscles, chest muscles and other muscles. The invention includes moveable arms so that the distance between the arms can be varied to accommodate the size of a user or to change the type of exercise.

A muscle training apparatus arranged for cyclic concentric and eccentric loading phases including load imposition means arranged for a user to exercise against load variation means arranged for varying the load as between concentric and eccentric loading phases, a vibrator operational to apply vibration between the user and the load, a controller operational to control the vibrator and to vary the extent of vibration as between concentric and eccentric phases.