Exercise apparatuses and methods for using same

Abstract

An exercise apparatus includes a knee receiving unit comprising a stationary base, a rigid platform rotatable about the stationary base about an axis, at least one compliant member on a top surface of the rigid platform, the at least one compliant member including knee receiving portions. The knee receiving portions may be located on substantially diametrically opposite sides of the axis. The exercise apparatus may further include a hand grip unit. In a method for using such an exercise apparatus, a user positions both knees on the knee receiving portions, grips the hand grip unit and rotates the rigid platform relative to the stationary base.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]This invention relates to exercise apparatuses and methods for using the same. The exercise of abdominal muscles is a particular target of this invention.DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART[0002]Exercise apparatuses have been developed and used throughout much of the modern era in an effort to improve users' physiques and physical and mental health. Abdominal muscles have long been the target of such apparatuses for many reasons, including health related concerns.[0003]Exercise apparatuses targeting the abdominal muscles have largely sought to imitate or modify a traditional sit-up motion. One such example is found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,344,486 which is incorporated by this reference in its entirety. In these class of exercise apparatuses, a user is typically seated on the floor or on a bench in a reclining or semi-reclining position and contracts their abdominal muscles to bring their torso into a more upright position. Variations have been developed to target the various ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"This patent describes an exercise apparatus that targets the abdominal muscles. The apparatus includes a knee receiving unit with compliant members that have knee receiving portions. The knee receiving portions are located on opposite sides of the axis of rotation and have a concavely shaped surface. The apparatus also includes hand grip units with a bottom surface and a hand grip bar. The method involves positioning the knees on the knee receiving portions of the compliant member on the rotatable rigid platform and gripping the hand grip unit while rotating the platform. The technical effects of this invention include improved abdominal workouts and improved overall fitness."

Problems solved by technology

However, conventional sit-up type apparatuses have been known to cause back and neck strain in users and are often bulky and difficult to store when not in use.

However, like the sit-up type apparatuses, conventional twisting apparatuses are also typically large and difficult to store.

In addition, twisting type apparatuses have conventionally placed a user in a standing position which may cause discomfort or may not be suited to some users.

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