Powerwalk plus

Abstract

The present invention is an exercise machine of providing a double aerobic workout combined with toning and sculpting for selected lower body muscle groups. The machine efficiently affords multiple exercise modes, including a standing power walk with arm toning exercise, a standing bun and thigh kick muscle toning workout and step aerobics. The invention comprises a sleek, lightweight frame with a padded base for stepping, standing or walking in place upon, a rotating power arm with stabilizing handgrip, and interchangeable pull handles and a foot attachment mechanism connected to elastic cords creating adjustable levels of pull resistance. In the first exemplary embodiment, the machine employs a detachable power arm and front frame with an adjustable height foot base. In the second exemplary embodiment, the power arm and front frame are release-hinged for efficient folding for storage. In a third exemplary embodiment, the padded base is not height adjustable.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to exercise machines which use a form of resistance to exercise specific muscle groups of the body. More specifically, the present invention is a versatile cardio, arms, buttocks and thigh exercise machine with variable-strength resistance adjustment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] There are many exercise machines available which offer strengthening and conditioning for a variety of muscle groups. Many use weights or other means to provide resistance to the muscles being exercised. These machines are suitable for their intended purpose, each targeting one or more specific body areas as designed. Often, these machines are single function, requiring two or more devices to accomplish the exercising of different body areas, or the machines are bulky, unattractive or of a relatively large size. Moreover, many are expensive and inconvenient to store while not in use [0003] Addressing these deficiencies, and with particular at...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] In a first exemplary embodiment, the rotating power arms are detachable from the front frame and the front frame is detachable from the main frame. This facilitates storage of the unit. In addition, the foot board is height-adjustable to provide varying options for exercising. A lower foot board position provides a platform suitable for the powerwalk, the primary bun and thigh muscle toning and sculpting exercises and a light step aerobic workout. An elevated position of the footboard provides a move intense step aerobic workout and additional bun and thigh toning exercise.

[0006] In a second exemplary embodiment, the connections of the power arms to the front frame and of the front frame to the main frame are of the hinge-release type, which provides for a quicker take down for storage.

[0008] The unique and innovative machine provides for efficient versatility of use in effectively exercising two key body areas from three modes of use. With the machine in the power walk mode, the user walks in place upon the foot board while simultaneously exercising the arms by pulling the variable-resistance handlebars on the rotating power arm handle bar frame. This promotes a strong cardio workout which is accomplished quicker than regular walking and offers upper arm toning as an added benefit. Switching to the bun and thigh mode, the power arm is rotated into a vertical position and an ankle cuff is attached in place of the lower handle bar. Placing one ankle at a time into the ankle cuff, the buttocks, and inner and outer thigh muscles are alternatively exercised by a series of moves kicking or pulling out against the resistance mechanism. Finally, returning the rotating handle bar frame to the horizontal position and raising the foot board, the user performs an aerobic step exercise on and off the elevated foot board.

[0009] The resistance mechanism utilizes two or more elastic bands of differing strengths to provide a smooth, even and consistent positive and negative resistance. The strength of the resistance can be varied by connecting or disconnecting the elastic bands in different combinations. The unit can include a sturdy support handle attached to the rotating power arm to facilitate the bun and thigh exercises where the user stands on one leg at a time.

[0010] The unit is designed to be sleek, attractive and affordable and more fun than walking and safe and easy to use for all ages. It is lightweight and easy to move and position for use and storage. The compact shape of the machine makes it ideal for use in a small room of the house. The machine frame can be made of metal or any other rigid material with typically plastic handle bars and grips and a padded foot board. It is simple to move between exercises; that is, to go from the power walk mode, to the bun and thigh mode and then on to the step aerobics mode.

Problems solved by technology

Often, these machines are single function, requiring two or more devices to accomplish the exercising of different body areas, or the machines are bulky, unattractive or of a relatively large size.

Moreover, many are expensive and inconvenient to store while not in use

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