An apparatus for facilitating torso rotation with shoulder rotation exercises

Abstract

An apparatus configured to facilitate torso rotation exercise with shoulder rotation exercise simultaneously includes a base platform, and a seat configured over the base platform. The seat is configured to provide support to legs of a user while performing torso rotation exercise. The apparatus includes a pair of arm support members configured to support arms of the user during shoulder rotation exercise. A set of handles are positioned above the arm support members and configured to assist in stabilizing the upper body while performing shoulder rotation exercise. Range controllers are implemented on the apparatus for torso and shoulder rotation movements for limiting movements of different types, such as movement of the first and second weight stacks, a rotary motion of the handles, and an angular movement of the seat.

Description

AN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING TORSO ROTATION WITH SHOULDER ROTATION EXERCISESFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fitness equipment. Specifically, it pertains to an apparatus for facilitating torso rotation with shoulder rotation exercises.BACKGROUND

[0002] Shoulder press machines are designed to isolate and strengthen shoulder muscles, primarily the deltoids along with the triceps and upper chest. These machines are typically used for performing an overhead pressing motion, a movement fundamental to many strength training programs.

[0003] Traditional shoulder press machines, such as the seated overhead press, function by providing resistance through a fixed path of motion. These machines typically require users to sit on a bench with their back supported, grasp handles connected to a weight stack or other resistance mechanisms and press the handles overhead in a vertical motion. While effective in isolating certain muscle groups (deltoids, triceps, and upper chest), these conventional designs have several inherent drawbacks, particularly in relation to the biomechanics of the shoulder joint.

[0004] One significant issue with these machines is the restriction of natural shoulder movement. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint with a highly versatile range of motion, including rotation, flexion, extension, and abduction. Traditional shoulder press machines lock the shoulder joint into a fixed plane, limiting the natural variability and rotational aspects of shoulder movement. This rigid motion can place undue stress on specific areas of the shoulder, such as the rotator cuff tendons, leading to increased risk of injury and long-term damage, including impingement syndrome.

[0005] Furthermore, these machines often neglect the role of smaller stabilizing muscles within the shoulder complex, which are essential for maintaining joint stability and mobility. By isolating the primary muscle groups (such as the deltoids and triceps), these machines fail to engage the stabilizing muscles in the rotator cuff and scapular region, potentially leading to muscular imbalances and compromised shoulder function over time.The lack of activation of the surrounding musculature can also decrease overall shoulder mobility and stability, increasing the risk of joint instability and overuse injuries.

[0006] Another limitation of conventional machines is the lack of integration between the upper and lower body during exercises. In dynamic, real-world movements such as throwing, running, or swinging, the energy transfer from the lower body to the upper body plays a crucial role in performance and injury prevention. Conventional shoulder press machines, however, isolate the upper body muscles without leveraging the natural synergy between the upper and lower body, limiting the functional strength benefits of the exercise.SUMMARY

[0007] In view of the drawbacks of conventional shoulder press machines, there is a need for an innovative solution for facilitating torso rotation with shoulder rotation movements.

[0008] It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that enables a user to perform a combined torso rotation and shoulder rotation movement in a seamless and integrated manner.

[0009] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that enhances biomechanical efficiency by promoting a more natural and functional movement.

[0010] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that promotes balanced muscular development by targeting core, shoulder, and stabilizing muscles in one exercise.

[0011] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that help in improving body coordination and posture by engaging upper and lower body in synchronized rotational movements.

[0012] It is yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus incorporated with adjustable components to enable adjustments to accommodate a wide range of body shapes, sizes, and fitness levels.

[0013] In an aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus that can be implemented for performing both torso rotation and internal or external shoulder rotationexercises, improving both core strength and shoulder mobility of the user, while also promoting dynamic muscle activation and joint health across the upper body.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the present invention pertains to an apparatus configured to facilitate torso rotation and shoulder rotation exercises. The apparatus includes a base platform, and a seat configured over the base platform. The seat is configured to provide support to legs of a user while performing torso rotation exercise. The apparatus includes a pair of arm support members configured to support arms of the user during shoulder rotation exercise. By providing arm support, the apparatus helps the user maintain proper posture during shoulder rotation movements, effectively targeting the shoulder joints, rotator cuff muscles, and upper back.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a set of handles positioned above the arm support members. The handles are configured to assist in stabilizing the upper body while performing shoulder rotation exercise. As the user rotates his torso or performs shoulder movements, the handles may facilitate more control over movements, enabling the user to focus on shoulder flexibility and strength while balancing his torso. Further, the arm support members may include a pair of elbow support members configured to support elbows of the user while performing shoulder rotation exercises.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a first range controller configured below the seat to allow the user to set limits on how far the user may rotate to perform the torso rotation exercise. The first range controller may help in preventing overextension and potential injury. By controlling the range of motion of the chair, the user may gradually increase his flexibility and strength while exercising within a safe and effective range. In an embodiment, the first range controller may include a lever mechanism configured at a back side of the seat. The lever mechanism may facilitate rotation of the seat either to the left or right to adjust the starting position of the user while performing the torso rotation exercise.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second range controller (not shown) configured with the arm support members to control range of motion of the arms of the user, during the shoulder rotation exercise. By limiting the range of motion, the user may engage in the shoulder rotation exercise with reduced risk of strain or injury, particularly beneficial for beginners.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a first weight stack connected to the seat. The first weight stack may be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing torso rotation exercise.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second weight stack connected to the arm support members. The second weight stack may be configured to provide additional resistance required while performing the shoulder rotation exercise.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the torso rotation exercise. The apparatus may further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the shoulder rotation exercise.

[0021] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an apparatus facilitating torso rotation with shoulder rotation exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 2A-2C illustrate exemplary perspective views of the apparatus for facilitating hip rotation and neck rotation exercises to improve effectiveness of core and spinal training, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, wherein details of the seat 104 are shown, providing individual rotational supports for the legs, which allow for coordinated movement between the core, hips, and legs. These rotational supports include a pivot point in the center 122 with the individual legs, a pivot point on the tibia 123 with the individual legs, and / or a pivot point on the knees 124 with individual legs.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearlycommunicate the invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention.

[0025] As used in the description herein, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0026] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present invention.

[0027] As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example, an object that is “substantially” cylindrical or “substantially” perpendicular would mean that the object / feature is either cylindrical / perpendicular or nearly cylindrical / perpendicular so as to result in the same or nearly the same function. The exact allowable degree of deviation provided by this term may depend on the specific context. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, structure which is “substantially free of’ a bottom would either completely lack a bottom or so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would be effectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom.

[0028] Similarly, as used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishing the function associated with the range.

[0029] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a description herein is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent arthave given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0030] The present invention addresses critical limitations found in traditional shoulder press machines, which often impose a fixed, rigid path of motion that restricts the natural movement of the shoulder joint. Traditional shoulder press machines lock the shoulder in a predetermined position, which can lead to excessive strain on shoulder tendons, particularly the rotator cuff, and increase the risk of impingement, especially in users with limited shoulder mobility. Furthermore, the lack of adaptability in the traditional machine's design inhibits the natural variability of shoulder movement, which can lead to improper mechanics and overuse of certain muscle groups, potentially resulting in muscle imbalances and joint dysfunction. By allowing for a more natural range of motion that accommodates individual anatomical variations, the machine optimizes shoulder mechanics, reduces the risk of injury, and improves the activation of stabilizing muscles, fostering better strength, mobility, and long-term shoulder health.

[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an apparatus 100 facilitating torso rotation with shoulder rotation exercises. The apparatus 100 includes a base platform 102, and a seat 104 configured over the base platform 102. The seat 104 is configured to provide support to legs of a user while performing torso rotation exercise. In some embodiments, the base platform 102 can be of shape selected from but not limited to H-shaped platform, square shaped platform, square shaped platform with bend corners, rectangular shaped platform, rectangular shaped platform with bend comers, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the base platform 102 can be of rectangular shape with bend comers. Further, the base frame 102 can be constructed of a material having high strength, durability and lightweight properties. Thus, the material for constructing the base platform 102 can be selected from a group, without limitation, steel, aluminum, composite materials, metal alloys and the like. In an embodiment, the seat 104 can be adjustable to accommodate users of varying sizes and body shapes. The seat 104 can be equipped with a height- adjustable mechanism, allowing for a customizable fit that ensures optimal support during torso rotation exercise.

[0032] FIG. 2A-2C illustrate another exemplary perspective view of an apparatus 100 for facilitating hip rotation and neck rotation exercises, wherein the seat 104 of theapparatus 100 provides individual rotational supports for the legs, which allow for coordinated movement between the core, hips, and legs. These rotational supports include a pivot point in the center 122 with the individual legs, a pivot point on the tibia 123 with the individual legs, and / or a pivot point on the knees 124 with individual legs.

[0033] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a pair of arm support members 106 configured to support arms of the user during shoulder rotation exercise. By providing arm support, the apparatus can help the user maintain proper posture during shoulder rotation movements, effectively targeting the shoulder joints, rotator cuff muscles, and upper back. The arm support members 106 can be configured in front of the seat. To ensure proper alignment of the shoulders during rotation, the height of the arm supports can be adjusted vertically using either vertical adjustment columns or scissor lift mechanisms to the arm support members 106. The height of the arm support members 106 can allow the user’s arms to be positioned at an appropriate level, whether the user is in a neutral, external, or internal rotation posture. Further, the arm support members 106 can be adjusted for arm adjustments in different angles to start the motion for internal or external rotation depending on the movement the user wants to perform.

[0034] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a set of handles 108 (collectively referred as “handles 108” hereinafter) positioned above the arm support members 106. Each of the handles 108 can be aligned such that an axis of the handle 108 is parallel to the base platform. The handles 108 can be configured to assist in stabilizing the upper body while performing the shoulder rotation exercise. As the user rotates his torso or performs shoulder movements, the handles 108 can facilitate more control over movements, enabling the user to focus on shoulder flexibility and strength while balancing his torso. The handles 108 can have gripping portions selected from but not limited to rectangular grips, contoured or sculpted grips, curved handles, pistol shaped grip, and the like. Further, the handles can 108 be covered with a cushioning material to enhance comfort and reduce risk of injuries during the shoulder rotation exercise. The cushioning material can also absorb impacts and vibrations, thereby minimizing stress on hands and wrists of the users. The cushioning material can be selected from but not limited to Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Foam, Polyurethane Foam, Natural Rubber, Synthetic Rubber, microfiber, and the like.

[0035] Further, the arm support members 106 can include a pair of elbow support members 110 configured to support elbows of the user while performing the shoulder rotation exercises. The elbow support members 110 can be configured to securely hold the user’s elbows in place, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring proper alignment throughout the shoulder rotation exercise. The elbow support members 110 can be designed in an open box shape, which allows for easy entry and exit, while still providing enough surface area to comfortably support the elbows. This open box design can ensure that the user of varying body sizes can position his arms correctly, allowing for a full range of motion in the shoulder joint without restriction, and enhancing both the effectiveness and safety of the internal and external shoulder rotation movements.

[0036] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 114 configured below the seat 104 to allow the user to set limits on how far the user can rotate to perform the torso rotation exercise. The first range controller 114 can help in preventing overextension and potential injury. By controlling the range of motion of the seat 104, the user can gradually increase his flexibility and strength while exercising within a safe and effective range. Further, the apparatus 100 can include a second range controller configured with the arm support members 106 to control range of rotation of the arms or shoulder of the user, during the shoulder rotation exercises. By limiting the range of rotation, the user can engage in the shoulder rotation exercise with reduced risk of strain or injury, particularly beneficial for beginners or those with prior shoulder issues. The first range controller 114 can include a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of the seat 104, and a selector plate (not shown) having a plurality of holes. The pivotally moving member includes a lock having a retractable pin configured to lock the pivotally moving member in different angular positions by engaging with a selected hole among the plurality holes of the selector plate. The angularly moving part includes a stopper (not shown), which is located in the same plane as the pivotally moving member such that, during the rotation of the seat 104, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the seat 104 beyond the selected position.

[0037] Similarly, the second controller 118 can include pivotally moving members configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of thearm support members 106, and a selector plate having a plurality of holes. The pivotally moving member includes a lock having a retractable pin configured to lock the pivotally moving member in different angular positions by engaging with a selected hole among the plurality holes of the selector plate. The angularly moving part includes a stopper (not shown), which is located in the same plane as the pivotally moving member such that, during the rotation of the arm support members 106, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the arm support members 106 beyond the selected position. In an embodiment, the first and second range controllers can be configured to lock the seat 104 and the arm support members 106 in a fixed position. The first and second range controllers can allow the user to maintain the fixed position while performing exercises, thereby reducing the risk of unwanted movement that could lead to injury. In an embodiment, first range controller 114 can include a lever mechanism configured at a back side of the seat 104. The lever mechanism can facilitate rotation of the seat 104 either to the left or right to adjust starting position of the user while performing the torso rotation exercise.

[0038] Further, the apparatus 100 can include a first weight stack 112 connected to the seat 104. The first weight stack 112 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the torso rotation exercise. Further, the apparatus 100 can include a second weight stack 112’ connected to the arm support members 106. The second weight stack 112’ can be configured to provide additional resistance required while performing the shoulder rotation exercise. In an embodiment, the first and second weight stack 112, 112’ can be made from durable materials such as steel or heavy-duty plastic, without limitations. Steel offers strength and stability, while plastic or composite materials can provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant option. In some embodiment, each of the first and second weight stacks 112, 112’ can include a plurality of weight plates, and a guide rod to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates without tilting or wobbling. The weight plates can be stacked vertically and can have a central hole that slides onto the guiding rod. This allows the weight plates to move up and down as the resistance is adjusted. The guide rod can be a cylindrical shaft that can run parallel to the weight stack and allow the weight plates to slide up and down smoothly. The guide rod can be made from metal and can be designed to be durable and resistant to bending or warping. In someembodiments, the weight stack can include channels or guides to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates.

[0039] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) for the first weight stack 112 to adjust resistance during the torso rotation exercise. The third range controller can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the first weight stack 112 for sliding movement in a blocking member track. The blocking member track can be located parallel to a weight stack track. The blocking member can include a lock to lock the blocking member in a selected position above the weights such that when the weights are lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the weights is restricted by the blocking member. The lock for the third range controller for the first weight stack 112 can include a retractable pin provided on the blocking member. The retracted pin, when released, can engage with a selected hole among a plurality of holes provided on a frame of the first weight stack 112 to fix the blocking member, such as a selected height from the weight selector of the weights. In particular, after pulling the pin outwards, the blocking member can be slid along the blocking member track to different positions, such as at the desired distance from the weight selector of the weights, and locked in the position by releasing the pin for locking with a corresponding hole on the frame, for achieving a desired range of motion.

[0040] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a fourth range controller (not shown) for the second weight stack 112’ to control resistance provided for the shoulder rotation exercise. The configuration of the fourth range controller is similar to that of the third range controller, providing the user with the ability to selectively adjust the resistance applied during the shoulder rotation exercise.

[0041] To simultaneously perform torso and shoulder rotation exercises on the apparatus 100, the user begins by adjusting the seat 104 to a comfortable height and setting the arm position for either internal or external shoulder rotation. The user engages his core while keeping his knees stable on the seat, to rotate his torso to one side in a controlled motion. As the torso rotates, the user simultaneously rotates his shoulders in the same direction, either internally or externally by adjusting the resistance on the arm support members 106. Focus on moving smoothly through both rotations, keeping spine neutral and movements controlled. After completing the desired reps on one side, return to theneutral position and repeat the exercise on the other side, ensuring that both torso and shoulder movements are synchronized for optimal activation and muscle engagement.

[0042] As can be appreciated, performing the torso rotation exercise with internal or external shoulder rotation movements simultaneously engages multiple muscle groups, enhancing coordination, stability, and overall flexibility. By synchronizing these movements, the user can improve both their core strength and shoulder mobility, while also promoting dynamic muscle activation and joint health across the upper body.

[0043] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability.

[0044] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus (100) configured to facilitate torso rotation exercise with shoulder rotation exercise simultaneously, the apparatus (100) comprising: a. a base platform (102); b. a seat (104) configured over the base platform (102); c. a pair of arm support members (106); d. a set of handles (108); and e. at least one range controller (114) configured to set limits on a movement of the apparatus (100).

2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first weight stack (112) connected to the seat (104), wherein the first weight stack (112) is configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the torso rotation exercise.

3. The apparatus (100) of claim 2, further comprising a second weight stack (112') connected to the arm support members (106), wherein the second weight stack (112') is configured to provide additional resistance required while performing the shoulder rotation exercise.

4. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the arm support members (106) include a pair of elbow support members (110) configured to support elbows of the user while performing the shoulder rotation exercises.

5. The apparatus (100) of claim 4, wherein the elbow support members (110) are designed in an open box shape to securely hold the user's elbows in place, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring proper alignment throughout the shoulder rotation exercise.

6. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein a first range controller (114) is configured below the seat (104) to allow the user to set limits on how far the user may rotate to perform thetorso rotation exercise, wherein the first range controller (1 14) includes a lever mechanism configured at a back side of the seat (104) to adjust the starting position of the user.

7. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein a second range controller (118) is configured with the arm support members (106) to control range of rotation of the arms of the user, during the shoulder rotation exercise.

8. The apparatus (100) of claim 2, further comprising a third range controller (121) configured with the first weight stack (112) to adjust resistance during the torso rotation exercise.

9. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (108) are configured to facilitate more control over movements, enabling the user to focus on shoulder flexibility and strength while balancing his torso.

10. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is equipped with a height- adjustable mechanism, allowing for a customizable fit that ensures optimal support during torso rotation exercise.

11. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the arm support members (106) are adjustable for arm adjustments in different angles to start the motion for internal or external rotation depending on the movement the user wants to perform.

12. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is configured to provide support to legs of a user while performing torso rotation exercise.

13. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the pair of arm support members (106) is configured to support arms of the user during shoulder rotation exercise.

14. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the set of handles (108) is positioned above the arm support members (106) and configured to assist in stabilizing the upper body while performing shoulder rotation exercise.

15. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the range controller (114) is configured to set limits on a movement chosen from: rotation of the seat (104) to perform the torso rotation exercise, rotation of the arms to perform the shoulder rotation exercise, and movement of a weight stack (112, 112') to adjust resistance.

16. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat assembly (104) is further defined by independent rotational supports for each leg of the user, the independent rotational supports including at least one of: a. a pivot point in the center (122) for the individual legs; b. a pivot point on the tibia (123) for the individual legs; and c. a pivot point on the knees (124) for the individual legs.

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