Core-strengthening exercise apparatus

Abstract

A core-strengthening exercise apparatus is comprised generally of three primary components, namely a pair of identically shaped and configured swing arms each of which is pivotally mounted at or proximate to its midpoint to a substantially C-shaped transverse bar member. The apparatus has two general modes of use. In a first mode of use, referred to as the “static mode”, the subject apparatus may be oriented such that its swing arms rest on the floor with the bar member extending therebetween a distance above the floor to provide a stable gripping surface over which a plurality of exercises may be performed. In a second mode of use, referred to as the “dynamic mode”, the apparatus is flipped over such that only the bar member is in contact with the floor supporting the swing arms there above. In this mode, the user supports his or her upper body in the plank position over the apparatus by grasping either end of each swing arm and resting his or her forearms along the longitudinal axis thereof. The unique curvature and configuration of the bar member creates an inherently unstable interface between the user and the floor permitting side-to-side or back-to-front rocking motions, pivoting motions about a vertical axis, or combinations thereof, all requiring control over core muscles to prevent loss of balance.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, it relates to an adjustable exercise apparatus used in the performance of exercises directed especially toward increasing an individual's core muscle strength.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]In recent years, health and fitness practitioners have given greater and greater emphasis to core stability training for injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance enhancement. Sports strength and conditioning coaches and physiotherapists recommend that athletes perform regular core stability or trunk strength exercises to prevent injury. The rationale for such prophylactic training is that increased recruitment of the stabilizer muscles and increased strength of the prime movers will carry over into better posture and more control, both in daily life and in sporting movements.[0003]The “core” actually consists of many different muscles that stabilize the spine and pelvis and run ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0018]The subject apparatus rather broadly provides an exercise apparatus used in the performance of core-strengthening exercises. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is comprised generally of three primary components, namely a pair of identically shaped and configured swing arms each pivotally mounted at or proximate to its midpoint to a generally C-shaped transverse bar member. The apparatus has two general modes of use. In a first mode of use, referred to as the “static mode”, the subject apparatus may be oriented such that its swing arms rest on the floor with the bar member extending therebetween a distance above the floor to provide a stable gripping surface upon which a plurality of isometric and isotonic exercises may be performed such as pushups, dips and plank exercises. In a second mode of use, referred to as the “dynamic mode”, the apparatus is flipped over such that the bar member is in contact with the floor and the swing arms are supported there above, normally parallel to the floor. In this mode, the user supports his or her upper body in the plank position over the apparatus by resting the forearms along the longitudinal axis of each swing arm. The unique curvature and configuration of the bar member creates an inherently unstable interface between the user and the floor permitting side-to-side, forward-rearward or twisting motions, or combinations thereof, all requiring control over core muscles to prevent loss of balance.

[0026]Another object of the subject invention is to provide a core-strengthening exercise apparatus that is fabricated from materials that may be finished to possess a smooth, easily cleanable surface.

[0028]An additional object of the subject invention is to provide a core-strengthening exercise apparatus capable of rapid disassembly into its primary component parts which together may be stored in a relatively compact flat container for ease of storage and shipping.

[0029]Another object of the subject invention is to provide a core-strengthening exercise apparatus that is relatively simple in design and therefore capable of rapid construction at relatively low costs.

Problems solved by technology

The unique curvature and configuration of the bar member creates an inherently unstable interface between the user and the floor permitting side-to-side, forward-rearward or twisting motions, or combinations thereof, all requiring control over core muscles to prevent loss of balance.

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