Device for assisting with plank exercises

Abstract

A device for assisting with plank exercises includes an elongated main body having a first axial end, an oppositely disposed second axial end and opposite lateral side walls extending therebetween. The main body comprises at least two telescoping members that may be adjusted to vary the length of the main body and the corresponding degree of stress provided by the exercise. The device includes a support brace positioned in proximity to the first axial end and a base member positioned in proximity to the second axial end. An ankle support is mounted to or extends from the main body. A post extends outwardly from a top surface of the main body and may receive at least one circular weight. The device is oriented so that the support brace rests on the user's lower back and buttocks area and the anterior portions of a user's lower legs rest on the ankle support.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62 / 130,663, filed on Mar. 10, 2015, and entitled “Device For Assisting With Plank Exercises”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and on which priority is hereby claimed.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention generally relates to exercise equipment, and more particularly relates to devices for assisting with manual body stress exercises.[0004]2. Description of the Prior Art[0005]The plank exercise is a popular exercise that stresses the core muscles of the body such as the abdomen, lower back and upper legs. The plank exercise is utilized in a variety of exercise routines and is common in yoga studios and fitness classes. In fact, plank exercises are also often utilized by professional athletes.[0006]The plank exercise is relatively simple. As can be seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B of the drawings, the exerci...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a device designed to assist users in performing a plank exercise. The device is adjustable in length to vary the degree of stress placed on the user during the exercise. It is made up of at least two telescoping members that can be extended or retracted to change the length of the device. It also includes a post that can hold additional weights to increase the difficulty of the exercise. This invention helps to make the plank exercise more effective and challenging for users.

Problems solved by technology

The degree and location of stress and strengthening that can be obtained from a traditional plank exercise is limited by the distance between the forearms and feet of the user, as well as the relative angle created between the user and the ground.

Accordingly, since the distance between a user's forearms and feet is generally unchangeable, the degree and location of stress and strengthening accomplished by plank exercises is restricted.

Furthermore, the conventional plank exercise places as much stress on the shoulders and arms as on the core muscles, and thus does not effectively target the core muscles.

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