Supplemental resistance assembly for resisting motion of an exercise device

Abstract

An exercise apparatus for a user. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, a crank system coupled to the frame, a pivotal linkage pendulum system, a foot member and first and second directional resistance systems. The crank system includes one or more crank members. The pivotal linkage pendulum system comprises at least a first link member. The first link member is coupled to the crank system through at least a first pivot point. The first pivot point of the first link member is configured to move in a path during use. The foot member is coupled to the at least one first link member. The first and second directional resistance systems are each coupled to the crank system. The first direction is different from the second direction.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ titled “End of Travel Stops for An Exercise Device” filed concurrently herewith and assigned to the same assignee as the present application.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to exercise equipment.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The benefits of regular aerobic exercise have been well established and accepted. However, due to time constraints, inclement weather, and other reasons, many people are prevented from aerobic activities such as walking, jogging, running, and swimming. As a result, a variety of exercise equipment has been developed for aerobic activity.[0004]From their humble beginnings as free weights and bicycles mounted on wooden platforms, exercise equipment such as stationary bicycles, treadmills, elliptical fitness trainers, stair climbers, and the like have grown increasingly sophisticated. However, the very advantage of the exercise equipment refe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is an exercise apparatus that allows users to exercise in a smooth and natural way over a large range of motion. It includes a frame, crank system, pivotal linkage pendulum system, foot member, and resistance systems. The resistance system has both a horizontal and vertical component, providing resistance to the foot member at different speeds and in different directions. The exercise device is convenient to use, provides a unique engaging motion, and is safe and stable. It can be used in a confined space and is even more enjoyable to use. The resistance system allows for smooth natural action and works without adding undesirable impact loads to the user's joints. Overall, the invention provides a unique and effective tool for exercise and fitness."

Problems solved by technology

However, due to time constraints, inclement weather, and other reasons, many people are prevented from aerobic activities such as walking, jogging, running, and swimming.

However, the very advantage of the exercise equipment referenced above—the ability to use such equipment conveniently, in a relatively confined space, and in inclement weather—results in exercise devices that can be relatively monotonous to use.

Unfortunately, many users find spending long hours doing repetitive forms of stationary exercise hard work and boring, sometimes so much so that the exercise equipment is abandoned in favor of more entertaining activity.

However, existing user defined motion fitness equipment, such as pendulum motion-type exercise apparatus, have drawbacks.

The freedom of motion in the fore and aft direction that provides the horizontal motion of the foot of the user is typically un-resisted.

It has been found that having un-resisted free travel in the fore and aft directions of such user defined motion fitness equipment provides too much freedom for a user.

The result of this excessive freedom is a foot path that can be unpredictable as well as often uncontrollable by the user.

Such unintended motion can frustrate the user, and even increase the risk of injury.

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