Weight Training Apparatus

Abstract

A weight training apparatus reconfigurable between an open configuration and a compact configuration in which the apparatus is packed into a smaller form than in the open configuration. The apparatus includes one or more storage compartments configured to removably receive and retain a weighted material to selectively increase the weight of the apparatus. If including more than one storage compartment, each can be movable relative to one other and are shaped and arranged to enable the apparatus to be reconfigured to the compact configuration in a filled condition in which the storage compartments contain weighted material. The apparatus can be configured in the compact configuration without weighted material for transport or storage. The absence of any weighted material makes the apparatus lightweight to carry, as well as enabling it to compact to a much smaller size than in the in-use filled configuration.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of UK Patent Application No. 1400933.6, filed 20 Jan. 2014, the entire contents and substance of which is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to a weight training apparatus, and in particular to a refillable weight lifting bag.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]Weight training is a common form of exercise for developing strength and power through an increase in the strength and size of skeletal muscles. Weight training requires the performance of specific movements involving the contraction of the muscles during which the force generated by the muscles is opposed by a weighted device such as a dumbbell acting under the force of gravity. A wide range of weighted devices are available that enable an even wider range of weight training exercises to be performed.[0006]Weight training devices require a weighted e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0026]The plurality of pockets may be configured to receive and retain flowable material and comprise closure means for closing the pockets and sealing the flowable material within the pockets. The use of flowable material such as sand is advantageous as such material may be present on site, which is the case for example for members of the armed forces based in arid or desert environments, meaning that the weighted material is readily available at the point of use without requiring transportation. By the same token this material may be readily disposed of following use. Flowable material also has the advantage of taking the form of the pockets, without requiring specific manufacture to provide a weighted element configured to fit the pockets.

[0027]The support substrate may be a flexible support sheet or panel. The plurality of pockets are secured to a common inner surface of the support panel and arranged such that the support panel may be rolled into cylindrical form in which the pockets are contained within and surrounded by the support panel. This provides a continuous cylindrical outer surface that may be include handles or other means for gripping the apparatus, with the weighted material housed within the confines of the support panel and shielded from impact thereby minimizing the risk of splitting or other damage to the pockets, as well as preventing the pockets from providing an obstruction to the user during use.

Problems solved by technology

The weight of this material provides the necessary resistance force, but also makes the apparatus difficult for a user to move, store and transport.

For example, it would not be practically possible to carry a weight suitable for weight training while travelling both due to the burden of the weight as well as the significant space consumed by the apparatus.

In addition, the weight of such apparatus significantly increases the cost of transport for the manufacturer and hence the cost of the apparatus to the consumer.

However, dumbbells of this type still comprise a rigid form that is space consuming.

It is also known to use rudimentary weight apparatus such as sand bags that may be filled at the point of use, but sandbags are difficult for a user to hold and manipulate during exercise in part due to the fact that they do not maintain a fixed shape and structure.

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