An exercise step

Abstract

Described is an exercise step. The exercise step comprises a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot. The primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position. The secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position. The primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position. Also described is a method of use for an exercise step that comprises a platform. The method comprises increasing a height of a first end of the platform by rotating a primary leg extension from a primary stowed position to a primary extended position, and further increasing the height of the first end of the platform by rotating a secondary leg extension from a secondary stowed position to a secondary extended position, in which the secondary leg extension is partially housed within the primary leg extension.

Description

AN EXERCISE STEPFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an exercise step, and a method of manufacture and use thereof.BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Exercise steps allow users to exercise and vary the height of the exercise step thus varying their exercise regime and its intensity.

[0003] There is a benefit to providing exercise steps that have variable height settings, are robust and secure, yet are light enough to be easily handled and adjusted by the user.

[0004] The exercise steps may be moulded from plastic polymer which needs to be robust enough to withstand a user’s weight including a user jumping up and down on the exercise step. Constructing the exercise step with a degree of functionality allowing for multiple height settings may require an amount of plastic polymer that leads to a heavy device that is difficult for a user to handle and adjust.

[0005] German utility model DE 20 2011 109298 U1 reports a “balance training device” in which “the feet are adjustable at least in two stages in height”. This document also reports “a balance training device with folding I pivoting feet”. However, the “balance training device” reported in this document would be heavy and therefore difficult for a user to handle and adjust. Furthermore, a user would find it difficult to adequately secure the “pivoting feet” in position so that they did not move during use.

[0006] The Reebok Deck comprises securing features to secure its legs in an extended position. However, the design of these securing features makes them difficult to operate. Furthermore, the Reebok Deck has only two height settings.

[0007] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, provide an exercise step, or to at least provide the public with a useful alternative.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In one aspect the present disclosure provides an exercise step with multiple rotating leg extensions that allow a user to adjust the height setting of the exercise step.

[0009] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprisinga platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein i) the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, ii) the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position, iii) a base width of the primary leg extension is at least equal to a base width of the secondary leg extension, iv) the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, or v) any combination of two or more of (i) to (iv).

[0010] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position.

[0011] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform comprising a first end and a second end,a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position.

[0012] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein a base width of the primary leg extension is at least equal to a base width of the secondary leg extension.

[0013] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0014] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform, the platform comprising a fixed leg at, at least, a first end of the platform, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0015] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform, the platform comprising a fixed leg at, at least, a first end of the platform, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, the primary leg extension comprises one or more primary-fixed clip portions and the fixed leg comprises one or more fixed-primary clip portions, each primary-fixed clip portion configured to couple to one fixed-primary clip portion when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, thereby securing the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0016] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform, the platform comprising a fixed leg at, at least, a first end of the platform, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension isconfigured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and a primary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the primary leg extension that is furthest from the primary pivot and is configured to secure the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0017] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform, the platform comprising a fixed leg at, at least, a first end of the platform, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary pivot lies on a primary axis and the secondary pivot lies on a secondary axis that is offset from the primary axis.

[0018] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide an exercise step comprising a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at, at least, the first end, wherein the height of the platform is adjustable between i) a first height, ii) a second height that is higher than the first height and is achieved by rotating the primary leg extension to a primary extended position, and iii) a third height that is higher than the second height and is achieved by rotating the secondary leg extension to a secondary extended position; and wherein the footprint of the primary leg extension when the first end is at the second height is substantially equal to the footprint of the secondary leg extension when the first end is at the third height.

[0019] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure may provide a method of use for an exercise step that comprises a platform, the method comprising: increasing a height of a first end of the platform by rotating a primary leg extension from a primary stowed position to a primary extended position, and further increasing the height of the first end of the platform by rotating a secondary leg extension from a secondary stowed position to a secondary extended position, in which the secondary leg extension is partially housed within the primary leg extension.

[0020] The following embodiments may relate to any of the above aspects.

[0021] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may be configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0022] In one configuration the platform may comprise a fixed leg at the first and second end.

[0023] In one configuration the primary leg extension may be configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position.

[0024] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may be configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0025] In one configuration the fixed leg may define at least one fixed-primary recess that is configured to receive at least part of the primary leg extension when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position.

[0026] In one configuration the fixed leg may define at least one fixed-secondary recess that is configured to receive at least part of the secondary leg extension when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0027] In one configuration the platform may comprise at least one platform strengthening rib that is next to at least one of the recesses defined by the fixed leg, each platform strengthening rib configured to increase the second moment of area of the platform.

[0028] In one configuration at least one platform strengthening rib may comprise a length of rectangular hollow section.

[0029] In one configuration the primary leg extension may define at least one primary-secondary recess that is configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

[0030] In one configuration the primary leg extension may comprise at least one primary leg extension strengthening rib that is next to the primary-secondary recess and is configured to increase a second moment of area of the primary leg extension.

[0031] In one configuration at least one primary leg extension strengthening rib may comprise a length of rectangular hollow section.

[0032] In one configuration the primary and secondary pivots may be at least partially housed within platform.

[0033] In one configuration the primary and secondary pivots may be fully housed within the platform.

[0034] In one configuration the primary and secondary pivots may be at least partially housed within the fixed leg.

[0035] In one configuration the primary and secondary pivots may be fully housed within the fixed leg.

[0036] In one configuration the primary leg extension may comprise one or more primary-fixed clip portions and the fixed leg may comprise one or more fixed-primary clip portions. Each primary- fixed clip portion may be configured to couple to one fixed-primary clip portion when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, thereby securing the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0037] In one configuration the one or more primary-fixed clip portions may be configured to detach from the one or more fixed-primary clip portions when a user forces the primary leg extension towards the primary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a primary-fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the primary leg extension from the primary extended position.

[0038] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may comprise one or more secondary- fixed clip portions. The fixed leg may comprise one or more fixed-secondary clip portions. Each secondary-fixed clip portion may be configured to couple to one fixed-secondary clip portion when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, thereby securing the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0039] In one configuration the one or more secondary-fixed clip portions may be configured to detach from the one or more fixed-secondary clip portions when a user forces the secondary leg extension towards the secondary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a secondary- fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the secondary leg extension from the secondary extended position.

[0040] In one configuration the exercise step may further comprise a primary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the primary leg extension that is furthest from the primary pivot. When the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, the primary leg extension latch may be configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface on the fixed leg to secure the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0041] In one configuration the exercise step may further comprise a secondary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the secondary leg extension that is furthest from the secondary pivot. When the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, the secondary leg extension latch may be configured to be biased into contact with a secondary latching surface on the primary leg extension to secure the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0042] In one configuration the primary leg extension may comprise a primary upper leg and a primary foot. The primary foot may be configured to be positioned, at least partially, between a ground surface and the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position so that the fixed leg may transfer a load to the primary leg extension. The primary upper leg may connect the primary foot to the primary pivot.

[0043] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may comprise a secondary upper leg and a secondary foot. The secondary foot may be configured to be positioned, at least partially, between the ground surface and the primary foot when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position so that the primary leg extension may transfer the load to the secondary leg extension. The secondary upper leg may connect the secondary foot to the secondary pivot.

[0044] In one configuration the primary pivot may lie on a primary axis and the secondary pivot may lie on a secondary axis. The secondary axis may be offset from the primary axis.

[0045] In one configuration the secondary axis may be offset from the primary axis in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platform.

[0046] In one configuration the exercise step may be configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, the primary foot contacts the secondary foot.

[0047] In one configuration the exercise step may be configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary stowed position, there is a gap between the primary foot and the secondary foot.

[0048] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may comprise one or more secondary- fixed clip portions and the fixed leg may comprise one or more fixed-secondary clip portions, each secondary-fixed clip portion configured to couple to one fixed-secondary clip portion when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, thereby securing the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0049] In one configuration the one or more primary-fixed clip portions may be configured to detach from the one or more fixed-primary clip portions when a user forces the primary leg extension towards the primary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a primary-fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the primary leg extension from the primary extended position.

[0050] In one configuration the one or more secondary-fixed clip portions may be configured to detach from the one or more fixed-secondary clip portions when a user forces the secondary leg extension towards the secondary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a secondary-fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the secondary leg extension from the secondary extended position.

[0051] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch may be configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface on the fixed leg to secure the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0052] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch may comprise a primary leg extension latch lock. When the primary leg extension latch is biased into contact with the primary latching surface, the primary leg extension latch lock may be configured to latch onto the primary latching surface on the fixed leg to secure the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

[0053] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch may further comprise a primary leg extension latch handle that is connected to the primary leg extension via a primary latch pivot that allows the primary latch handle to rotate relative to the primary leg extension. The primary leg extension latch handle may be configured to contact the primary leg extension latch lock.

[0054] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch handle may be configured so that, when the primary leg extension is secured in the primary extended position and the user presses the primary leg extension latch handle in a direction towards the primary stowed position, the primary leg extension latch handle will rotate about the primary latch pivot, press on the primary extension latch lock, and move the primary leg extension latch lock against the bias and out of contact with the primary latching surface, thereby releasing the primary leg extension from the primary extended position.

[0055] In one configuration the exercise step may further comprise a secondary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the secondary leg extension that is furthest from the secondary pivot and is configured to secure the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0056] In one configuration, the secondary leg extension latch may be configured to be biased into contact with a secondary latching surface on the primary leg extension to secure the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0057] In one configuration the secondary leg extension latch may comprise a secondary leg extension latch lock. When the secondary leg extension latch is biased into contact with the secondary latching surface, the secondary leg extension latch lock may be configured to latch onto the secondary latching surface on the primary leg extension to secure the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

[0058] In one configuration the secondary leg extension latch may further comprise a secondary leg extension latch handle that is connected to the secondary leg extension via a secondary latchpivot that allows the secondary latch handle to rotate relative to the secondary leg extension. The secondary latch handle may be configured to contact the secondary leg extension latch lock.

[0059] In one configuration the secondary latch handle may be configured so that, when the secondary leg extension is secured in the secondary extended position and the user presses the secondary leg extension latch handle in a direction towards the secondary stowed position, the secondary leg extension latch handle will rotate about the secondary latch pivot, press on the secondary leg extension latch lock, and move the secondary leg extension latch lock against the bias and out of contact with the secondary latching surface, thereby releasing the secondary leg extension from the secondary extended position.

[0060] In one configuration the secondary axis may be offset from the primary axis in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platform.

[0061] In one configuration the primary leg extension may comprise a primary upper leg and a primary foot. The primary foot may be configured to be positioned, at least partially, between a ground surface and the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position so that the fixed leg may transfer a load to the primary leg extension. The primary upper leg may connect the primary foot to the primary pivot.

[0062] In one configuration the secondary leg extension may comprise a secondary upper leg and a secondary foot. The secondary foot may be configured to be positioned, at least partially, between the ground surface and the primary foot when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position so that the primary leg extension may transfer the load to the secondary leg extension. The secondary upper leg may connect the secondary foot to the secondary pivot.

[0063] In one configuration the exercise step may be configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, the primary foot contacts the secondary foot.

[0064] In one configuration the exercise step may be configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary stowed position, there is a gap between the primary foot and the secondary foot.

[0065] In one configuration one or more of the fixed leg, the primary leg extension, and the secondary leg extension may define one or more stacking cutouts to help locate the exercise step on top of another exercise step.

[0066] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch comprises an extended position protrusion, a stowed position protrusion, and a primary latch lock spring. The primary latch lock spring is configured to bias the extended position protrusion into contact with the primary latching surface onthe fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and to bias the stowed position protrusion into contact with a primary stowed latching surface on the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position.

[0067] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch comprises a spacing member that connects the extended position protrusion to the stowed position protrusion and maintains a fixed distance between the extended position protrusion and the stowed position protrusion.

[0068] In one configuration the primary leg extension latch comprises a primary leg extension latch handle and the primary leg extension is configured so that a pulling action that releases the primary leg extension latch from the primary latching surface is the same as a pulling action that releases the primary leg extension latch from the primary stowed latching surface.

[0069] The term “comprising” as used in this specification means “consisting at least in part of’. When interpreting statements in this specification which include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprised” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0070] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0071] As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or” or both.

[0072] It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1 , 1 .1 , 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1 .5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0073] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0074] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0075] The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings.

[0076] Figure 1 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0077] Figure 2 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0078] Figure 3 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0079] Figure 4 is a plan view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0080] Figure 5 is a bottom view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0081] Figure 6 is a bottom view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0082] Figure 7 is a bottom view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0083] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0084] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0085] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0086] Figure 11 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0087] Figure 12 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0088] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0089] Figure 14 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0090] Figure 15 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0091] Figure 16 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0092] Figure 17 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0093] Figure 18 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0094] Figure 19 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0095] Figure 20 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step with the leg extensions removed according to an embodiment.

[0096] Figure 21 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step with the leg extensions removed according to an embodiment.

[0097] Figure 22 is a cutaway left perspective view of the exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0098] Figure 23 is a cutaway left perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0099] Figure 24 is a left-bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0100] Figure 25 is a left-bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0101] Figure 26 is a left-bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0102] Figure 27 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0103] Figure 28 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0104] Figure 29 is a view of a primary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0105] Figure 30 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0106] Figure 31 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0107] Figure 32 is a view of a secondary leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0108] Figure 33 is a view of a primary leg extension latch according to an embodiment.

[0109] Figure 34 is a perspective view of a primary leg extension latch according to an embodiment.

[0110] Figure 35 is a perspective view of a primary leg extension latch according to an embodiment.

[0111] Figure 36 is a perspective view of a primary leg extension latch lock according to an embodiment.

[0112] Figure 37 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0113] Figure 38 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0114] Figure 39 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0115] Figure 40 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0116] Figure 41 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0117] Figure 42 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0118] Figure 43 is a front view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0119] Figure 44 is a side view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0120] Figure 45 is a top perspective view of a clip according to an embodiment.

[0121] Figure 46 is a plan view of a clip according to an embodiment.

[0122] Figure 47 is a front view of a clip according to an embodiment.

[0123] Figure 48 is a bottom perspective view of a clip according to an embodiment.

[0124] Figure 49 is a detail view of a leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0125] Figure 50 is a view of a leg extension according to an embodiment.

[0126] Figure 51 is a perspective view of a clip removal insert and a clip according to an embodiment.

[0127] Figure 52 is a top perspective view of a clip removal insert according to an embodiment.

[0128] Figure 53 is a bottom perspective view of a clip removal insert according to an embodiment.

[0129] Figure 54 is a side view of a exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0130] Figure 55 is a bottom perspective view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0131] Figure 56 is a bottom view of an exercise step according to an embodiment.

[0132] Figure 57 is a section view along line A-A of Figure 56.

[0133] Figure 58 is a perspective view of a latch according to an embodiment.

[0134] Figure 59 is a side view of a latch according to an embodiment.

[0135] Figure 60 is a bottom perspective view of a latch according to an embodiment.

[0136] Figure 61 is a perspective view of a latch handle according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0137] The exercise step of the present disclosure comprises a series of rotating leg extensions that allow a user to adjust the height of the exercise step. The exercise step may be light and therefore convenient for the user to carry and manoeuvre.

[0138] The exercise step may comprise securing features for the leg extensions. These securing features may allow a user to secure the leg extensions in their different designated positions. These securing features may prevent the extensions moving from their designated positions during use without the user purposefully moving them. These securing features allow the user to move the leg extensions from their designated positions.

[0139] The exercise step 1 is configured to rest on a ground surface 2 (as shown in Figures 1 to 3) and to support a user above the ground surface 2. The exercise step 1 comprises a platform 3. The platform may have a notionally quadrilateral shape when viewed in plan view. The quadrilateral shape may be substantially rectangular as shown in the Figures. The platform 3 comprises a middle section 4 with an upper side 5 and a lower side 6 (the lower side 6 is shown in Figures 5 to 7). The upper side 5 is spaced apart from the lower side 6 so that the middle section 4 has a thickness. The upper side 5 is substantially flat and is configured to receive and support a portion of, or all of, the user’s body weight. The upper side 5 may be formed from a material with a high coefficient of friction, such as rubber.

[0140] The platform 3 further comprises a first end 7 and a second end 8 at longitudinally opposite ends of the platform 3. These ends are separated by the middle section 4. If the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view (as shown in Figures 1 to 3), the front side 10 is at the front, the first end 7 is on the left, the second end 8 is on the right, and the upper side 5 is on the top.

[0141] The platform may further comprise a fixed leg 9 at one or more of the first end 7 or the second end 8. For example, the platform 3 may comprise only one fixed leg 9 at either the first end 7 or second end 8. Alternatively, the platform 3 may comprise two fixed legs 9: one at the first end 7 and the other at the second end 8.

[0142] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, when one component is described as being “at” an end, this is intended to cover the component being at the extremity of the end or substantially at the end. For example, each fixed leg 9 may be at the extremity of the relevant end of the platform 3. Alternatively, each fixed leg 9 may be substantially at the relevant end of the platform 3, that is, near the extremity of the relevant end of the platform 3.

[0143] Each of the one or more fixed legs 9 may be configured to support the middle section 4 above the ground surface 2 so that there is space between the lower side 6 and the ground surface 2. If the platform 3 comprises a fixed leg 9 at the first end 7 only, the first end 7 of the platform 3 may be higher than the second end 8 (relative to the ground surface 2), and the middle section 4 may be supported above the ground surface 2 at an angle. If the platform 3 comprises a fixed leg 9 of equal height at each end, then the two ends of the platform 3 may be at equal heights, and the middle section 4 may be supported above the ground surface 2 parallel to the ground surface 2.

[0144] Described herein are leg extensions and associated features at the first end 7 of the platform 3. These leg extensions and associated features, and their functions, may be replicated at the second end 8 of the platform 3. The leg extensions and associated features at the first end 7 may be operated independently of those at the second end 8 and vice versa. In this way, the height of the first end 7 and the height of the second end 8 may be adjusted independently so that the middle section 4 may be supported above the ground surface 2 parallel to the ground surface 2 or at an angle.

[0145] The exercise step 1 comprises a primary leg extension 30 connected to the platform 3 at the first end 7 of the platform 3. The primary leg extension 30 is connected to the platform 3 via a primary pivot 31 . The primary leg extension 30 is configured to rotate about the primary pivot 31 between a primary extended position 32 and a primary stowed position 33 (as shown in Figures 8 to 13).

[0146] The primary leg extension 30 is configured to support the first end 7 of the platform 3 above the ground surface 2 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32. In other words, a user may increase the height of the first end 7 of the platform 3 by rotating the primary leg extension 30 from the primary stowed position 33 to the primary extended position 32.

[0147] The primary leg extension 30 is configured to be stowed underneath the lower side 6 of the platform 3 when in the primary stowed position 33. The primary leg extension 30 may be substantially parallel to the middle section 4 when in the primary stowed position 33.

[0148] The primary leg extension 30 may comprise one or more primary upper legs 38 and a primary foot 39 (as shown in Figures 14 to 16). Each of the primary upper legs 38 may be connected to the primary pivot 31 at a top end and to the primary foot 39 at a bottom end. The primary foot 39 may be configured to be positioned between the ground surface 2 and the fixed leg 9 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32. This positioning means that, when the user applies weight to the upper side 5, this load may be transferred through the fixed leg 9 to the primary foot 39, and then through the primary foot 39 to the ground surface 2. In this configuration the load is not transferred entirely (or optionally at all) through the primary pivot 31 , so the strength, and importantly the weight, of the primary pivot 31 may be minimised.

[0149] The exercise step 1 also comprises a secondary leg extension 50 connected to the platform 3 at the first end 7 of the platform 3. The secondary leg extension 50 is connected to the platform 3 via a secondary pivot 51 . The secondary leg extension 50 is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot 51 between a secondary extended position 52 and a secondary stowed position 53.

[0150] The secondary leg extension 50 is longer than the primary leg extension 30.

[0151] The secondary leg extension 50 is configured to support the first end 7 of the platform 3 above the ground surface 2 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. In other words, a user may increase the height of the first end 7 of the platform 3 by rotating the secondary leg extension 50 from the secondary stowed position 53 to the secondary extended position 52.

[0152] The secondary leg extension 50 is configured to be stowed away underneath the lower side 6 of the platform 3 when in the secondary stowed position 53. The secondary leg extension 50 may be substantially parallel to the middle section 4 when in the secondary stowed position 53.

[0153] The secondary leg extension may comprise one or more secondary upper legs 58 and a secondary foot 59 (as shown in Figures 17 to 19). The secondary upper leg 58 may be connected to the secondary pivot 51 at a top end and to the secondary foot 59 at a bottom end. The secondary foot 59 may be configured to be positioned between the ground surface 2 and the primary foot 39 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. This positioning means that, when the user applies weight to the upper side 5, this load may be transferred through the fixed leg 9 to the primary foot 39, through the primary foot 39 to the secondary foot 59, and then through the secondary foot 59 to the ground surface 2. In this configuration the load is not transferred entirely (or optionally at all) through the primary pivot 31 or the secondary pivot 51 , so the strength, and importantly the weight, of these pivots may be kept down.

[0154] In some embodiments, if the exercise step 1 comprises each of a fixed leg 9, a primary leg extension 30, and a secondary leg extension 50 at the first end of the platform 3, a user may adjust the height of the first end 7 of the platform 3 by rotating each of the two leg extensions. With the primary leg extension 30 in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 in the secondary stowed position 53, the fixed leg 9 will rest on the ground surface 2 and the height of the first end 7 will be a first height. If the user rotates the primary leg extension 30 to the primary extended position 32, the primary leg extension 30 will rest on the ground surface 2, the fixed leg 9 will not, and the height of the first end 7 will be a second height that is greater than the first height. If the user then rotates the secondary leg extension 50 to the secondary extended position 52, the secondary leg extension 50 will rest on the ground surface, the fixed leg 9 and the primary leg extension 30 will not, and the height of the first end 7 will be a third height that is greater than the second height. In thisway, the rotation of the primary and secondary leg extensions allows a user to quickly and easily adjust the height of the first end 7 of the platform 3.

[0155] Although only primary and secondary leg extensions are described in detail, the exercise step 1 may comprise additional leg extensions that function in a similar way to the primary and secondary leg extensions. For example, the exercise step may comprise primary, secondary, and tertiary leg extensions at the first end 7.

[0156] Each of the leg extensions and the fixed leg 9 may define a handle 67 that is formed as a cutout. These handles 67 may make it easier for the user to carry and adjust the exercise step.

[0157] The primary pivot 31 (and any of the other pivots mentioned throughout) may be any type of pivot that facilitates the described rotation of the primary leg extension 30 about an axis. For example, the primary pivot 31 may comprise one or more axles configured to be located in, and rotate about, one or more holes. As another example, the primary pivot 31 may comprise one or more protrusions configured to be located in, and rotate about, one or more recesses. As another example, the primary pivot 31 may comprise one or more balls configured to be located in, and rotate about, one or more sockets. It will be understood that, in these examples, the holes / recesses / sockets may equally be able to rotate about the axles / protrusions / balls.

[0158] The primary pivot 31 may comprise pivot components on only one side of the primary leg extension 30, with the corresponding pivot components as part of the platform 3. Alternatively, the primary pivot 31 may comprise pivot components on multiple sides of the primary leg extension 30, with the corresponding pivot components as part of the platform 3. For example, the primary leg extension 30 may comprise a first primary axle 34 on a first side of a primary upper leg 38 and a second primary axle 36 on a second, opposite side of the primary upper leg 38. The first and second primary axles may be configured to be located in, and rotate about, a first primary axle hole 35 that is part of the platform 3, and a second primary axle hole 37 that is part of the platform 3, respectively (see Figure 20 and Figure 21 ). In this way the primary leg extension 30 may be supported on two sides.

[0159] Like the primary pivot 31 , the secondary pivot 51 may be any type of pivot that facilitates the described rotation of the secondary leg extension 50. Also like the primary pivot 31 , the secondary pivot 51 may comprise pivot components on only one side of the secondary leg extension 50 or on multiple sides of the secondary leg extension 50.

[0160] The primary pivot 31 may lie on a primary axis 40. When the exercise step is upright on a horizontal ground surface 2, the primary axis 40 may extend in a horizontal direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the exercise step 1 . The secondary pivot 51 may lie on a secondary axis 60. When the exercise step is upright on a horizontal ground surface 2, the secondaryaxis 60 may also extend in a horizontal direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the exercise step 1 . In other words, the secondary axis 60 may be parallel to the primary axis 40.

[0161] The secondary axis 60 may be offset from the primary axis 40 in one or more directions so that these axes are not coaxial (as shown in Figure 22 and Figure 23). The secondary axis 60 may be offset from the primary axis 40 in a direction that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the exercise step 1 . The secondary axis 60 may be offset from the primary axis 40 in a direction with a component that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the exercise step 1 and towards a centre of the exercise step 1 . In this case, when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33, and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53, there may be a gap between the primary foot 39 and the secondary foot 59 due to the offset. This gap may make it easier for the user to rotate the secondary leg extension 50 from the secondary stowed position 53 to the secondary extended position 52 as they will not have to overcome any friction caused by contact between the primary foot 39 and the secondary foot 59. However, the direction of this offset means that, when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, there will be no gap between the primary foot 39 and the secondary foot 59. Therefore, the majority of the load resulting from the weight of the user may be transferred through the fixed leg 9 to the primary foot 39, through the primary foot 39 to the secondary foot 59, and then through the secondary foot 59 to the ground surface 2.

[0162] One or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3. This is to say that, at least a part of one or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be positioned between the upper side 5, the lower side 6, the first end 7, and the second end 8.

[0163] One or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be fully housed within the platform 3. This is to say that, one or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be positioned entirely between the upper side 5, the lower side 6, the first end 7, and the second end8.

[0164] One or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be at least partially housed within the fixed leg 9. This is to say that, at least a part of one or more of the primary leg extension 31 and the secondary leg extension 51 may be positioned between the left side 11 of the fixed leg 9 and the right side 12 of the fixed leg 9.

[0165] One or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be fully housed within the fixed leg 9. This is to say that, one or more of the primary pivot 31 and the secondary pivot 51 may be positioned entirely between the left side 11 of the fixed leg 9 and the right side 12 of the fixed leg9.

[0166] Positioning the primary and secondary pivots so that they are at least partially housed within the platform 3 (and optionally the fixed leg 9) means that part of each leg extension is always housed within the platform 3 (and optionally the fixed leg 9). This makes it easier to configure the exercise step 1 so that the leg extensions are partially housed within the platform 3 (and optionally the fixed leg 9) when in their extended positions, as additional material and weight does not need to be added to the leg extensions in order for them to extend from their pivots to positions within the platform 3 (and optionally within the fixed leg 9).

[0167] Configuring the exercise step 1 so that the primary leg extension 30 and the secondary leg extension 50 are housed within the platform 3 (and optionally the fixed leg 9) may lead to benefits such as a lower profile. The reduced profile may allow the exercise step to more easily be stored, such as under a bed.

[0168] The primary leg extension 30 may be configured to be at least partially housed within the platform 3 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32. This means that, when the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the primary leg extension 30 will appear to overlap the platform 3 when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position 32 (as shown in Figure 2).

[0169] The primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3 by means of at least one platform to primary recess formed in the platform 3. The platform to primary recess may be configured to receive at least a part of the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, so that the primary leg extension 30 is at least partially housed within the platform 3.

[0170] The primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially housed within the fixed leg 9 of the platform 3 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32. In this case, the platform to primary recess may be a fixed to primary recess 70 that is formed in the fixed leg 9 (as shown in Figure 11 ). Furthermore, in this case, when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, two or more sides of the primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the fixed to primary recess 70. For example, three sides of the primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0171] Furthermore, the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. This means that, when the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the secondary leg extension 50 will appear to overlap the platform 3 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52 (as shown in Figure 3).

[0172] The secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3 by means of at least one platform to secondary recess formed in the platform 3. The platform to secondary recess may be configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension 50 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, so that the secondary leg extension 50 is at least partially housed within the platform 3.

[0173] The secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the fixed leg 9 of the platform 3 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. In this case, the platform to secondary recess may be a fixed to secondary recess 75 that is formed in the fixed leg 9 (as shown in Figure 11 ). Furthermore, in this case, when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, two or more sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the fixed to secondary recess 75. For example, three sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0174] A configuration of the exercise step 1 whereby the primary leg extension 30 (and optionally the secondary leg extension 50) is at least partially housed within the fixed leg 9 when in its extended position may mean that the primary leg extension 30 (and optionally the secondary leg extension 50) can extend past the fixed leg 9, in order to increase the height of the first end 7, without needing to extend all the way down the side and then under the bottom of the fixed leg 9. Therefore, the primary leg extension 30 (and optionally the secondary leg extension 50) may be smaller (and lighter) than it would otherwise need to be.

[0175] Furthermore, in a configuration whereby the primary leg extension 30 (and optionally the second leg extension 50) is smaller, it may not then protrude as far towards the ground surface 2 when in its stowed position. When in its stowed position, the primary leg extension 30 (and optionally the second leg extension 50) may then be less likely to contact the ground surface 2 when the user applies their body weight to the upper side 5: contact that may damage one or more of the leg extensions and cause the platform 3 to be unstable. This lesser protrusion may also make it easier to store the exercise step 1 in a small space such as under a bed or in a cupboard.

[0176] The secondary leg extension 50 may be configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. In such a configuration, when the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the secondary leg extension 50 may appear to overlap the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52 (as shown in Figure 3).

[0177] The secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 by means of at least one primary to secondary recess 80 formed in the primary legextension 30 (as shown in Figure 12). The primary to secondary recess 80 may be configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension 50 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52.

[0178] When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, two or more sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the primary to secondary recess 80. For example, three sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0179] The exercise step 1 may be configured such that the secondary leg extension 50 is at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. Such a configuration may result in a secondary leg extension 50 that extends past the primary leg extension 30, in order to increase the height of the first end 7, without needing to extend all the way down the side and then under the bottom of the primary leg extension 30. The secondary leg extension 50 may be relatively small and light while still providing a structure that makes it easy for the user to adjust the height of the exercise step 1 .

[0180] The primary leg extension 30 may be configured to be at least partially housed within the platform 3 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33. When the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the primary leg extension 30 may then appear to overlap the platform 3 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 (as shown in Figure 1 ).

[0181] The primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3 by means of at least one lower to primary recess 85 formed in the lower side 6 of the middle section 4 (as shown in Figure 13). The lower to primary recess 85 may be configured to receive at least a part of the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33, so that the primary leg extension 30 is at least partially housed within the platform 3.

[0182] When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33, two or more sides of the primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the lower to primary recess 85. For example, three sides of the primary leg extension 30 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0183] The secondary leg extension 50 may be configured to be at least partially housed within the platform 3 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53. This means that, when the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the secondary leg extension 50 mayappear to overlap the platform 3 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53 (as shown in Figure 2).

[0184] The secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the platform 3 by means of at least one lower to secondary recess 90 formed in the lower side 6 of the middle section 4 (as shown in Figure 13). The lower to secondary recess 90 may be configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension 50 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53, so that the secondary leg extension 50 is at least partially housed within the platform 3.

[0185] When the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53, two or more sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the lower to secondary recess 90. For example, two sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0186] The secondary leg extension 50 may be configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53. When the exercise step 1 is viewed in front view, the secondary leg extension 50 may appear to overlap the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53 (as shown in Figure 3).

[0187] The secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 by means of at least one primary to secondary recess 80 formed in the primary leg extension 30. The primary to secondary recess 80 may be configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension 50 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53.

[0188] When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53, two or more sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded by walls of the primary to secondary recess 80. For example, three sides of the secondary leg extension 50 may be at least partially surrounded.

[0189] An exercise step 1 having a primary leg extension 30 configured to be at least partially housed within the platform 3 when in the primary stowed position 33 may result in an exercise step 1 in which the entire primary leg extension 30 (including the primary foot 39) does not extend down from a position outside the lower side 6 of the platform 3. The primary leg extension 30 may not protrude as far towards the ground surface 2 and therefore may be less likely to contact the ground surface 2 when the user applies their body weight to the upper side 5. Such contact may damage the primaryleg extension 30 and cause the platform 3 to be unstable. This lesser protrusion may also make it easier to store the exercise step 1 in a small space such as under a bed or in a cupboard.

[0190] The exercise step 1 may have a configuration in which the secondary leg extension 50 is at least partially housed within the platform 3 when in the secondary stowed position 53. The entire secondary leg extension 50 (including the secondary foot 59) may then not extend down from a position outside the lower side 6 of the platform 3. The secondary leg extension 50 may then not protrude as far towards the ground surface 2 so is less likely to contact the ground surface 2 when the user applies their body weight to the upper side 5. Such contact may damage the secondary leg extension 50 and cause the platform 3 to be unstable. This lesser protrusion may make it easier to store the exercise step 1 in a small space such as under a bed or in a cupboard.

[0191] An exercise step 1 may be configured such that the secondary leg extension 50 is at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53. The entire secondary leg extension 50 (including the secondary foot 59) may then not extend down from a position outside the primary leg extension 30. The secondary leg extension 50 may the not protrude as far towards the ground surface 2 so is less likely to contact the ground surface 2 when the user applies their body weight to the upper side 5. Such contact may damage both leg extensions and cause the platform 3 to be unstable. This lesser protrusion may make it easier to store the exercise step 1 in a small space such as under a bed or in a cupboard.

[0192] The exercise step 1 may comprise one or more strengthening ribs. These strengthening ribs may strengthen parts of the exercise step 1 that may be weakened by the inclusion of one or more recesses, without adding significantly to the weight of the exercise step 1 .

[0193] The fixed leg 9 may comprise at least one platform strengthening rib 100 that is located next to a recess in the platform 3 (as shown in Figure 11 ). Each platform strengthening rib 100 may be configured to strengthen the platform 3 and help it to withstand bending force and avoid buckling. Each platform strengthening rib 100 may strengthen the platform 3 by, at least, increasing the second moment of area of the platform 3.

[0194] Each platform strengthening rib 100 may have a portion that extends along the fixed leg 9 in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the fixed leg 9. In this way, each platform strengthening rib 100 may extend alongside one or more fixed primary recesses 70 and / or one or more fixed secondary recesses 75. This positioning may allow each platform strengthening rib 100 to strengthen parts the fixed leg 9 that may be weakened by the inclusion of a recess.

[0195] Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the platform strengthening ribs 100 may have a portion that extends along the middle section 4 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of theexercise step 1 (as shown in Figure 13). In this way, these platform strengthening ribs 100 may extend alongside one or more lower primary recesses 85 and / or one or more lower to secondary recesses 90. This positioning may allow each of these strengthening ribs 100 to strengthen parts of the platform 3 that may be weakened by the inclusion of a recess.

[0196] The primary leg extension 30 may comprise at least one primary leg extension strengthening rib 110 that is located next to a primary to secondary recess 80 (as shown in Figure 12). Each primary leg extension strengthening rib 110 may be configured to contribute to the ability of the primary leg extension 30 to withstand bending force and avoid buckling. Each primary leg extension strengthening rib 110 may contribute to this ability by, at least, increasing the second moment of area of the primary leg extension 30.

[0197] Each primary leg extension strengthening rib 110 may extend alongside each of the primary to secondary recesses 80 that it is next to. This positioning may allow each primary leg extension strengthening rib 110 to strengthen parts of the primary leg extension 30 that may be weakened by a recess.

[0198] Each strengthening rib may have any reasonable cross section. For example, a rectangular cross section, a circular cross section, or a triangular cross section. Each strengthening rib may be solid or hollow. Hollow strengthening ribs may be preferable as keeping weight down is an important consideration for the exercise step 1 , and hollow ribs can have a higher strength to weight ratio than solid ribs.

[0199] The base width 41 of the primary leg extension 30 may be at least equal to the base width 61 of the secondary leg extension 50. In this context, the base width describes the horizontal distance from the leftmost point of a lower surface of each extended leg extension to the rightmost point of the lower surface of that extended leg extension when viewing the exercise step 1 in front view. The base width 41 of the primary leg extension 30 is shown in Figure 2. The base width 61 of the secondary leg extension 50 is shown in Figure 3.

[0200] This relationship between the base widths of the primary leg extension 30 and the secondary leg extension 50 may be made possible by the primary and secondary leg extensions overlapping each other. In other words, this relationship may be made possible by the secondary leg extension 50 being configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30 so that it does not need to extend all the way down the side and then under the bottom of the primary leg extension 30.

[0201] The exercise step 1 may comprise a primary leg extension 30 in which the base width 41 is at least equal to the base width 61 of the secondary leg extension 50. The secondary leg extension 50 may then not include additional material that would allow it to extend all the way down the side andthen under the bottom of the primary leg extension 30, in order to increase the height of the first end 7. Such a configuration may reduce the amount of material to form these features reducing weight while still providing a structure with a primary leg extension 30 and a secondary leg extension 50 that make it easy for the user to adjust the height of the exercise step 1 .

[0202] Furthermore, as the secondary leg extension 50 does not include additional material that would allow it to extend all the way down the side and then under the bottom of the primary leg extension 30, the secondary leg extension 50 does not protrude as far towards the ground surface 2 when in the secondary stowed position 53. The secondary leg extension 50 may be less likely to contact the ground surface 2 when the user applies their body weight to the upper side 5. Such contact may damage the secondary leg extension 50 and cause the platform 3 to be unstable. This lesser protrusion may also makes it easier to store the exercise step 1 in a small space such as under a bed or in a cupboard.

[0203] The exercise step 1 having the base width 41 of the primary leg extension 30 at least equal to the base width 61 of the secondary leg extension 50 may also mean that some of the same mould tools may be used for parts of the primary and secondary leg extensions.

[0204] The footprint of the primary leg extension 30 on the ground surface 2 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary stowed position 53 may be substantially equal to the footprint of secondary leg extension 50 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. That is, the area of the ground surface 2 covered by the primary foot 39 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53 may be substantially equal to the area of the ground surface 2 covered by the secondary foot 59 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. This relationship between the footprints may be made possible by the primary and secondary leg extensions overlapping each other. In other words, this relationship may be made possible by the secondary leg extension 50 being configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension 30.

[0205] The exercise step 1 may allow the user to be able to easily secure the leg extensions in each of their stowed and extended positions. Once secured, it is beneficial if the leg extensions do not move from their designated positions during use without the user purposefully moving them as this could be inconvenient and even dangerous. However, it is also beneficial if the user can easily move the leg extensions between their stowed and extended positions when they want to, therefore, any securing features must be easy to disengage.

[0206] Two different types of securing features are disclosed: clips and latches. Clips are defined here as securing features that a user can disengage without directly touching and actuating some part of the securing feature itself. Latches are defined here as securing features that a user can onlydisengage if they directly touch and actuate some part of the securing feature itself. The exercise step 1 may comprise securing features of one type or both types. Figures 1 to 23 show different views of the exercise step 1 (or parts of it) with clips to secure the leg extensions in the extended and stowed positions. Figures 24 to 32 show different views of the exercise step 1 (or parts of it) with latches to secure the leg extensions in their extended positions and clips to secure the leg extensions in their stowed positions.

[0207] The exercise step 1 may comprise one or more primary to fixed clips 200. Each primary to fixed clip 200 is configured to secure the primary leg extension 30 in the primary extended position 32. Each primary to fixed clip 200 comprises a primary to fixed clip portion 201 and a fixed to primary clip portion 202. The primary to fixed clip portion 201 is attached to the primary leg extension 30. The fixed to primary clip portion 202 is attached to the fixed leg 9 (or some other part of the platform 3).

[0208] The primary to fixed clip portion 201 is configured to couple to the fixed to primary clip portion 202 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32. This coupling secures the primary leg extension 30 in the primary extended position 32.

[0209] The exercise step 1 may further comprise one or more primary to lower clips 210. Each primary to lower clip 210 is configured to secure the primary leg extension 30 in the primary stowed position 33. Each primary to lower clip comprises a primary to lower clip portion 211 and a lower to primary clip portion 212. The primary to lower clip portion 211 is attached to the primary leg extension 30. The lower to primary clip portion 212 is attached to the platform 3 at the lower side 6.

[0210] The primary to lower clip portion 211 is configured to couple to the lower to primary clip portion 212 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33. This coupling secures the primary leg extension 30 in the primary stowed position 33.

[0211] Each primary to fixed clip 200 and primary to lower clip 210 may be any kind of appropriate clip. One type of clip is a dome clip, which is also known as a snap fastener. This type of clip has one portion with a hole and a corresponding portion with a protrusion that is configured to pass through the hole. Either the hole or the protrusion must deform for the protrusion to pass through the hole in either direction. This deformation requires a user to impart a force. As an example, the primary to fixed clip portion 201 may be a hole and the fixed to primary clip portion 202 may be a protrusion, or vice versa. Similarly, the primary to lower clip portion 211 may be a hole and the lower to primary clip portion 212 a protrusion, or vice versa. A dome clip may provide clear audible and / or haptic feedback to the user when it is coupled and decoupled. Some users may find this feedback reassuring.

[0212] Another type of clip is an elongated clip. This type of clip has one portion with an elongated recess and a corresponding portion with an elongated protrusion that is configured to fitinto the elongated recess. Either the recess or the protrusion must deform for this clip to couple and disengage. As an example, the primary to lower clip portion 211 may be an elongated protrusion and the lower to primary clip portion 212 may be an elongated recess (as shown in Figure 37 and Figure 38), or vice versa. An elongated clip may provide a feedback that is gradual, smooth, and quiet when it is coupled and decoupled. Some users may prefer this kind of feedback.

[0213] Each of the clip portions may be attached with one or more appropriate fixtures such as a screw or bolt.

[0214] Each of the coupled clips is configured to decouple (i.e. disengage / detach) when the user forces the primary leg extension 30 away from its current designated position towards the other of the two designated positions. When the primary to fixed clip 200 disengages, the primary to fixed clip portion 201 decouples from the fixed to primary clip portion 202. Similarly, when the primary to lower clip 210 disengages, the primary to lower clip portion 211 decouples from the lower to primary clip portion 212.

[0215] The user must provide a force equal to or greater than a primary to fixed clip release force to disengage each primary to fixed clip 200. Similarly, the user must provide a force equal to or greater than a primary to lower release force to disengage each primary to lower clip 210. These release forces may be individually calibrated by varying the dimensions and / or materials of each clip portion. For example, for a dome clip, the release force may be calibrated by varying the size and / or material of the portion with the hole, and / or the size and / or material of the portion with the protrusion. Large release forces may be more appropriate for heavier users who may apply relatively large forces to the leg extensions while using the exercise step 1 . Conversely, smaller release forces may be sufficient for lighter users who may only apply relatively small forces to the leg extensions while using the exercise step 1 .

[0216] The user may find it easy to disengage each primary to fixed clip 200 and primary to lower clip 210 as they do not need to directly touch or actuate a clip in order to disengage it. Instead, the user can simply grasp a part of the primary leg extension 30 and apply the required release force by moving the primary leg extension 30 away from its current designated position and towards its other designated position (the primary extended position 32 or the primary stowed position 33). This movement will generate a force that will be transferred through the primary leg extension 30 and applied to the relevant clip(s).

[0217] The exercise step 1 may comprise one or more secondary to fixed clips 220. Each secondary to fixed clip 220 may have substantially the same structure and operate in substantially the same way as the primary to fixed clips 200 described above. Each secondary to fixed clip comprises a secondary to fixed clip portion 221 and a fixed to secondary clip portion 222. The secondary to fixedclip portion 221 is attached to the secondary leg extension 50. The fixed to secondary clip portion 222 is attached to the fixed leg 9 (or some other part of the platform).

[0218] The secondary to fixed clip portion 221 is configured to couple to the fixed to secondary clip portion 222 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52. This coupling secures the secondary leg extension 50 in the secondary extended position 52. The release force for each secondary to fixed clip is a secondary to fixed clip release force.

[0219] The exercise step 1 may further comprise one or more secondary to lower clips 230. Each secondary to lower clip 230 may have substantially the same structure and operate in substantially the same way as the primary to lower clips 210 described above. Each secondary to lower clip comprises a secondary to lower clip portion 231 and a lower to secondary clip portion 232 (as shown in Figure 13). The secondary to lower clip portion 231 is attached to the secondary leg extension 50. The lower to secondary clip portion 232 is attached to the platform 3 at the lower side 6.

[0220] The secondary to lower clip portion 231 is configured to couple to the lower to secondary clip portion 232 when the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53. This coupling secures the secondary leg extension 50 in the secondary stowed position 53. The release force for each secondary to lower clip is a secondary to lower clip release force.

[0221] Both the primary to fixed clip 200 and the secondary to fixed clip 220 secure their respective leg extension to the fixed leg 9. This arrangement means that the secondary leg extension 50 is not affected by any play in the primary to fixed clip 200.

[0222] One example of a female portion of a dome clip 299 is shown in Figures 45-48. The female portion of the dome clip comprises two or more clip connection arms 301 that are configured to engage with a corresponding male clip portion to secure the clip. At least one of the clip connection arms 301 may be configured to deform in response to an applied clip release force to allow the corresponding male clip portion to disengage.

[0223] The female portion 299 may be configured to be removable from the exercise step 1 . Therefore, if the female portion 299 fails, due to fatigue for example, it can be quickly and cheaply replaced with a new female portion 299 and the remainder of the exercise step 1 can be retained.

[0224] To facilitate quick and easy insertion of the female portion 299, the female portion 299 may comprise one or more clip retention ridges 302. For example, two, three, or four clip retention ridges 302. Each of the clip retention ridges 302 may be configured to engage with a receiver flange 310 (shown in Figure 49) on the corresponding part of the exercise step 1 . This engagement prevents removal of the female portion 299 by pulling, as each clip retention ridge 302 cannot be pulled through its corresponding receiver flange 310.

[0225] A user may engage each of a the clip retention ridges 299 with its corresponding receiver flange 310 by inserting the female portion 299 into a hole on the corresponding part of the exercise step 1 and then twisting the female portion 299. This twisting may be made easier by a ridge chamfer 304 on one or more of the clip retention ridges 302 which helps the clip retention ridge 302 to slide into engagement with the receiver flange 310 during twisting.

[0226] To help ensure that the female portion 299 does not untwist itself once inserted, the female portion 299 may also comprise one or more clip locking tabs 303. For example, two, three, or four clip locking tabs 303. Each of the one or more clip locking tabs 303 may be configured to engage with a receiver locking notch 311 (shown in Figure 49) on the corresponding part of the exercise step 1 when the female portion 299 is twisted into place. This twisting may be made easier by a tab chamfer 306 on one or more of the clip locking tabs 303 which helps the clip locking tab 303 to slide into engagement with the receiver locking notch during twisting. Once each of the clip locking tabs 303 is engaged with its corresponding receiver locking notch 311 , the female portion 299 becomes difficult to untwist, and therefore remove, by hand.

[0227] The female portion 299 may be configured to be easily removed from the remainder of the exercise step 1 using a clip removal insert 320 (shown in Figures 51 to 53) and a standard tool 330 such as an alien key. The clip removal insert 320 may comprise one or more insert flanges 322. For example, the clip removal insert 320 may comprise two, three, or four insert flanges 322. Each of the one or more insert flanges may be configured to be inserted into a clip removal hole 300 defined in the female portion 299. The clip removal insert 320 may also comprise a tool hole 321 to receive the standard tool 330. The clip removal insert 320 may also comprise an insert protrusion 323. The insert protrusion 323 may be configured to be inserted into a centre hole 305 defined by the female portion 299.

[0228] A user may remove a female portion 299 from the remainder of the exercise step 1 by applying the clip removal insert 320 to the female portion 299 so that each of the insert flanges 322 is inserted into a clip removal hole 300 and the insert protrusion 323 is inserted into the centre hole 305. The user may then insert the standard tool 330 into the tool hole 321 . The user may then use the standard tool 330 to rotate the clip removal insert 320. Rotating the clip removal insert 320 will rotate the female portion 299 as the inert flanges 322 and / or inert protrusion 323 apply a force to the female portion 299. This rotation will disengage each of the clip locking tabs 303 from the receiver locking notches 311 and then each of the clip retention ridges 302 from the receiver flanges 310. The user may then pull the female portion 299 out.

[0229] The exercise step 1 may comprise a primary leg extension latch 250 (as shown in Figures 24 to 26 and 33 to 35). The primary leg extension latch 250 is located at an end of the primary leg extension 30 that is furthest from the primary pivot 31 . The primary leg extension latch 250 comprisesa primary leg extension latch lock 252 and a primary leg extension latch handle 253. These are two separate components but they are configured to be in contact with each other.

[0230] When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, the primary leg extension latch 250 is configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9. This contact between the primary leg extension latch 250 and the primary latching surface251 secures the primary leg extension 30 into the primary extended position 32. The primary leg extension latch lock 252 may be the specific component of the primary leg extension latch 250 that is configured to be biased into contact with (i.e. latch onto) the primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9.

[0231] The primary leg extension latch handle 253 comprises a primary latch pivot 254. The primary leg extension latch handle 253 is connected to the primary leg extension 30 via the primary latch pivot 254. The primary latch pivot 254 allows the primary latch handle 253 to rotate relative to the primary leg extension 30. When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, the user may press the primary latch handle 253 in a direction towards the primary stowed position 33. The primary leg extension latch handle 253 will in turn rotate about the primary latch pivot 254, press on the primary leg extension latch lock 252, and move the primary leg extension latch lock252 against the bias and out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 . This will release the primary leg extension 30 from the primary extended position 32.

[0232] The bias is generated by the primary latch lock spring 256 which is a part of the primary leg extension latch lock 252 (shown in Figure 36). The primary latch lock spring 256 is connected to the primary leg extension 30 (optionally with one or more appropriate fixtures such as a screw or bolt). When the primary leg extension latch handle 253 presses on the primary leg extension latch lock 252, the primary latch lock spring 256 elastically deforms to overcome the bias and allow the primary leg extension latch lock 252 to move out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 . When the user releases the primary leg extension latch handle 253, the primary latch lock spring 256 returns to its undeformed state and the bias is restored.

[0233] This primary leg extension latch 250 arrangement ensures that the primary leg extension 30 remains secure in the primary extended position 32. However, this arrangement also allows the user to easily disengage the primary leg extension latch lock 252 and move the primary leg extension 30 to the primary stowed position 33. Because the primary leg extension latch 250 is located at the end of the primary leg extension 30 that is furthest from the primary pivot 31 , the user can grasp the primary leg extension 30 with one hand, press the primary latch handle 253 with the same hand in a direction towards the primary stowed position 33 to move the primary leg extension latch lock 252 out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 , and then rotate the primary leg extension 30 all the way to the primary stowed position 33. This one handed operation makes it easy for the user to move the primary leg extension 30 when they want to.

[0234] The primary leg extension latch lock 252 also comprises a primary latch lock guide face 255. The primary latch lock guide face 255 is sloped so that, when the user is rotating the primary leg extension 30 towards the primary extended position 32, and the primary latch lock guide face 255 comes in contact with the end of the primary latching surface 251 , the force of the rotation is transferred through the primary latching surface 251 and directed down against the bias. This moves the primary leg extension latch lock 252 so that it may pass over the end of the primary latching surface 251 . Once it has passed over the end of the primary latching surface 251 , the bias automatically forces the primary leg extension latch lock 252 into contact with the primary latching surface 251 and secures the primary leg extension 30 in the primary extended position 32. This automatic forcing makes it easy for the user to secure the primary leg extension 30 in the primary extended position 32 as they do not need to directly touch and actuate any part of the primary leg extension latch 250 itself.

[0235] The primary leg extension latch 250 is easy for a user to operate yet very effective at securing the primary leg extension 30 into the primary extended position 32. The force required to operate the primary leg extension latch 250 is far less than the retention force it provides.

[0236] The exercise step 1 may further comprise a secondary leg extension latch 270. When the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, the secondary leg extension latch 270 is configured to be biased into contact with a secondary latching surface 271 .

[0237] The secondary leg extension latch 270 may be located at an end of the secondary leg extension 50 that is furthest from the secondary pivot 51 . The secondary leg extension latch 270 may comprise all of the same features as the primary leg extension latch 250. The secondary leg extension latch 270 may function in substantially the same way as the primary leg extension latch 250 to secure the secondary leg extension 50 in, and release it from, the secondary extended position 52.

[0238] The exercise step 1 may comprise a primary leg extension latch 260 that is configured to secure the primary leg extension 30 in the primary extended position 32 and in the primary stowed position 33. An example of this primary leg extension latch configuration is shown in Figures 54 to 61 .

[0239] As shown in Figure 54, this primary leg extension latch 260 is located at an end of the primary leg extension 30 that is furthest from the primary pivot 31 . As shown in Figure 58, the primary leg extension latch 260 comprises a primary leg extension latch lock 262 and a primary leg extension latch handle 263. The primary leg extension latch lock 262 and the primary leg extension latch handle 263 may be two separate components that are configured to be in contact with each other.

[0240] When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, the primary leg extension latch 260 is configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9. This contact between the primary leg extension latch 260 and the primary latchingsurface 251 secures the primary leg extension 30 into the primary extended position 32. The primary leg extension latch lock 262 may be the specific component of the primary leg extension latch 260 that is configured to be biased into contact with (i.e. latch onto) the primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9.

[0241] As shown in Figure 61 , the primary leg extension latch handle 263 comprises a primary latch pivot 264. The primary leg extension latch handle 263 is connected to the primary leg extension 30 via the primary latch pivot 264. The primary latch pivot 264 allows the primary latch handle 263 to rotate relative to the primary leg extension 30. When the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32, the user may pull the primary latch handle 263 in a direction away from the primary stowed position 33. The primary leg extension latch handle 263 will in turn rotate about the primary latch pivot 264, press on the primary leg extension latch lock 262, and move the primary leg extension latch lock 262 against the bias and out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 . This will release the primary leg extension 30 from the primary extended position 32.

[0242] The bias is generated by the primary latch lock spring 265 which is a part of the primary leg extension latch lock 262 (as shown in Figures 58 to 60). The primary latch lock spring 265 is fixed in place relative to the primary leg extension 30 (optionally with one or more fixtures such as a screw or bolt 266 into the primary leg extension 30). When the primary leg extension latch handle 263 presses on the primary leg extension latch lock 262, the primary latch lock spring 265 elastically deforms to overcome the bias and allow the primary leg extension latch lock 262 to move out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 . When the user releases the primary leg extension latch handle 263, the primary latch lock spring 265 returns to its undeformed state and the bias is restored.

[0243] As mentioned above, the primary leg extension latch lock 262 is configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9. Furthermore, the alternative primary leg extension latch 260 is configured so that the primary leg extension latch lock 262 is also configured to be biased into contact with a primary stowed latching surface 267 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 (as shown in Figure 57). Furthermore, when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33, and a user pulls the primary leg extension latch handle 263, the primary leg extension latch handle 263 is configured to press on the primary leg extension latch lock 262 to move it out of contact with the primary stowed latching surface 267.

[0244] In this way, the alternative primary leg extension latch 260 is configured so that the same pulling action on the primary leg extension latch handle 263 can release the primary leg extension 30 from both the primary extended position 32 and the primary stowed position 33. This double release functionality makes it easy for a user to release the primary leg extension 30 from either position and therefore results in an exercise step 1 that is intuitive to use.

[0245] To facilitate the double release functionality, the primary leg extension latch lock 262 may comprise one or more extended position protrusions 2621 and one or more stowed position protrusions 2624. In one example configuration, the primary leg extension latch lock 262 comprises two extended position protrusions 2621 and two stowed position protrusions 2624.

[0246] As shown in Figure 59, each extended position protrusion 2621 may comprise an extended position latching face 2622. The extended position latching face 2622 may be the specific part of the primary leg extension latch lock 262 that is configured to be biased into contact with (i.e. latch onto) the primary latching surface 251 on the fixed leg 9 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32.

[0247] Each extended position protrusion 2621 may also comprise an extended position guide face 2623 that is sloped and configured to perform the same function as the primary latch lock guide face 255 described above.

[0248] As shown in Figure 59, each stowed position protrusion 2624 may comprise a stowed position latching face 2625. The stowed position latching face 2625 is configured to be biased into contact with a primary stowed latching surface 261 on the platform 3. This contact between the stowed position latching face 2625 and the primary stowed latching surface 261 secures the primary leg extension 30 into the primary stowed position 33. Each primary stowed latching surface 261 may be an internal surface that is accessed via a latch hole 2611 defined in the platform 3 (shown in Figure 55).

[0249] Each stowed position protrusion 2624 may also comprise a stowed position guide face 2626 that is sloped and configured to perform the same function as the primary latch lock guide face 255 and the extended position guide face 2623 described above.

[0250] The primary leg extension latch lock 262 may also comprise a spacing member 2627. The stowed position protrusion 2624 may be connected to the extended position protrusion 2621 via the spacing member 2627. In this way, the spacing member 2627 may maintain a fixed distance between the stowed position protrusion 2624 and the extended position protrusion 2621 .

[0251] As the extended position protrusion 2621 and the stowed position protrusion 2624 are fixed together by the spacing member 2627, the primary latch lock spring 265 may be configured to provide the bias for both the extended position latching face 2622 and the stowed position latching face 2625.

[0252] As shown in Figure 55, the primary leg extension 30 may comprise a protrusion hole 2628 for each of the stowed position protrusions 2624. Each protrusion hole 2628 is configured to allow a spacing member 2627 to protrude through it. In this way, the spacing member 2627 can extend through the primary leg extension 30 so that the stowed position protrusion 2624 protrudes from aninner side 42 of the primary leg extension 30. In this way, each stowed position protrusion 2624 may be free to latch onto a corresponding primary stowed latching surface 261 . In this context, the inner side 42 of the primary leg extension 30 is the side that is configured to be closest to a longitudinal centre of the platform 3 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32.

[0253] The primary leg extension latch configuration 260 ensures that the primary leg extension 30 remains secure in the primary extended position 32 and in the primary stowed position 33.However, this arrangement also allows the user to easily disengage the primary leg extension latch lock 252 and move the primary leg extension 30 to the primary stowed position 33 or to the primary extended position 32. Because the primary leg extension latch 260 is located at the end of the primary leg extension 30 that is furthest from the primary pivot 31 , the user can grasp the primary leg extension 30 with one hand, pull the primary latch handle 263 with the same hand in a direction away from the primary stowed position 33 to move the primary leg extension latch lock 262 out of contact with the primary latching surface 251 , and then rotate the primary leg extension 30 all the way to the primary stowed position 33. This one handed operation makes it easy for the user to move the primary leg extension 30 when they want to.

[0223] The primary leg extension latch 260 is easy for a user to operate yet very effective at securing the primary leg extension 30 into the primary extended position 32 and the primary stowed position 33. The force required to operate the alternative primary leg extension latch 260 is far less than the retention force it provides.

[0224] Along with the alternative primary leg extension latch 260, the exercise step 1 may further comprise an alternative secondary leg extension latch 280 (as shown in Figure 54). When the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary extended position 52, the secondary leg extension latch 280 is configured to be biased into contact with a secondary latching surface 271 . When the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53, the secondary leg extension latch 280 is configured to be biased into contact with one or more secondary stowed latching surfaces 281 . Each secondary stowed latching surface 281 may be an internal surface that is accessed via a latch hole 2611 defined in the platform 3.

[0225] The secondary leg extension latch 280 may be located at an end of the secondary leg extension 50 that is furthest from the secondary pivot 51 . The secondary leg extension latch 280 may comprise all of the same features as the primary leg extension latch 260. The secondary leg extension latch 280 may function in substantially the same way as the primary leg extension latch 260 to secure the secondary leg extension 50 in, and release it from, the secondary extended position 52 and the secondary stowed position 53. The secondary leg extension 50 may comprise a protrusion hole for each of the stowed position protrusions of the alternative secondary leg extension latch 280.

[0254] Examples of different angled arrangements of the exercise step 1 are shown in Figures 39 to 41 .

[0255] In settings like gyms, where a number of the exercise steps 1 may need to be stored together in a given space, it may be helpful to stack one or more of the exercise steps 1 on top of each other. The exercise step 1 may define one or more stacking cutouts 400 to help locate one exercise step 1 on top of another exercise step 1 . The one or more stacking cutouts 400 may also help to stabilise a stack of the exercise steps 1 . In other words, the one or more stacking cutouts 400 may help to prevent one or more of the exercise steps 1 from falling off of another of the exercise steps 1 .

[0256] As shown in Figure 42, the one or more stacking cutouts 400 may be defined in a bottom surface of one or more of the fixed legs 9. For example, the exercise step 1 may comprise four stacking cutouts 400 - two in each fixed leg 9 so that there is one stacking cutout 400 accessible at each of the bottom corners of the exercise step 1 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary stowed position 33 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53.

[0257] Additionally or alternatively, one or more stacking cutouts 400 may be defined in a bottom surface of one or more of the primary leg extensions 30. For example, the exercise step may comprise four stacking cutouts 400 - two in each primary leg extension 30 so that there is one stacking cutout 400 accessible at each of the bottom corners of the exercise step 1 when the primary leg extension 30 is in the primary extended position 32 and the secondary leg extension 50 is in the secondary stowed position 53.

[0258] Additionally or alternatively, one or more stacking cutouts 400 may be defined in a bottom surface of one or more of the secondary leg extensions 50. For example, the exercise step 1 may comprise four stacking cutouts 400 - two in each secondary leg extension 50 so that there is one stacking cutout 400 accessible at each of the bottom corners of the exercise step 1 when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position 52.

[0259] As shown in Figures 43 and 44, the one or more stacking cutouts 400 may facilitate an overlap of parts of a leg (e.g. a fixed leg 9) of one of the exercise steps 1 with a platform 3 of another of the exercise steps 1 when stacked. It is this overlapping that results in the locating and stabilising described above.

[0260] The exercise step may be formed by plastic or other suitably durable polymers or composite materials.

[0261] The exercise step 1 as described above is not limitedly applied to the constructions and methods of the embodiments as previously described; rather, all or some of the embodiments may be selectively combined to achieve various modifications.

[0262] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An exercise step comprising: a platform comprising a first end and a second end, a primary leg extension connected to the platform at the first end of the platform via a primary pivot, and a secondary leg extension connected to the platform at the first end of the platform via a secondary pivot, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to rotate about the primary pivot between a primary extended position and a primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is configured to rotate about the secondary pivot between a secondary extended position and a secondary stowed position, and wherein(i) the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position,(ii) the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position,(iii) a base width of the primary leg extension is at least equal to a base width of the secondary leg extension,(iv) the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the primary leg extension when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, or(v) any combination of two or more of (i) to (iv).

2. The exercise step of claim 1 , wherein the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the platform when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

3. The exercise step of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the platform comprises a fixed leg at, at least the first end.

4. The exercise step of claim 3, wherein the primary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position.

5. The exercise step of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the secondary leg extension is configured to be at least partially housed within the fixed leg when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

6. The exercise step of claim 4, wherein the fixed leg defines at least one fixed-primary recess that is configured to receive at least part of the primary leg extension when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position.

7. The exercise step of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the fixed leg defines at least one fixed- secondary recess that is configured to receive at least part of the secondary leg extension when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.

8. The exercise step of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the platform comprises at least one platform strengthening rib that is next to at least one of the recesses defined by the fixed leg, each platform strengthening rib configured to increase the second moment of area of the platform.

9. The exercise step of claim 8, wherein at least one platform strengthening rib comprises a length of rectangular hollow section.

10. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the primary leg extension defines at least one primary-secondary recess that is configured to receive at least a part of the secondary leg extension when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position.11 . The exercise step of claim 10, wherein the primary leg extension comprises at least one primary leg extension strengthening rib that is next to the primary-secondary recess and is configured to increase a second moment of area of the primary leg extension.

12. The exercise step of claim 11 , wherein at least one primary leg extension strengthening rib comprises a length of rectangular hollow section.

13. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the primary and secondary pivots are at least partially housed within platform.

14. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the primary and secondary pivots are fully housed within the platform.

15. The exercise step of any one of claims 3 to 14, wherein the primary and secondary pivots are at least partially housed within the fixed leg.

16. The exercise step of any one of claims 3 to 15, wherein the primary and secondary pivots are fully housed within the fixed leg.

17. The exercise step of any one of claims 3 to 16, wherein the primary leg extension comprises one or more primary-fixed clip portions and the fixed leg comprises one or more fixed-primary clip portions, each primary-fixed clip portion configured to couple to one fixed-primary clip portion when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, thereby securing the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

18. The exercise step of claim 17, wherein the one or more primary-fixed clip portions is configured to detach from the one or more fixed-primary clip portions when a user forces the primary leg extension towards the primary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a primary-fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the primary leg extension from the primary extended position.

19. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the secondary leg extension comprises one or more secondary-fixed clip portions and the fixed leg comprises one or more fixed- secondary clip portions, each secondary-fixed clip portion configured to couple to one fixed-secondary clip portion when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, thereby securing the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

20. The exercise step of claim 19, wherein the one or more secondary-fixed clip portions is configured to detach from the one or more fixed-secondary clip portions when a user forces the secondary leg extension towards the secondary stowed position with a force equal to or greater than a secondary-fixed clip release force, thereby releasing the secondary leg extension from the secondary extended position.21 . The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a primary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the primary leg extension that is furthest from the primary pivot, and, when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position, the primary leg extension latch is configured to be biased into contact with a primary latching surface on the fixed leg to secure the primary leg extension in the primary extended position.

22. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 16 or 21 , further comprising a secondary leg extension latch that is located at an end of the secondary leg extension that is furthest from the secondary pivot, and, when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, the secondary leg extension latch is configured to be biased into contact with a secondary latching surface on the primary leg extension to secure the secondary leg extension in the secondary extended position.

23. The exercise step of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the primary leg extension comprises a primary upper leg and a primary foot, the primary foot configured to be positioned, at least partially,between a ground surface and the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position so that the fixed leg may transfer a load to the primary leg extension and, wherein, the primary upper leg connects the primary foot to the primary pivot.

24. The exercise step of claim 23, wherein the secondary leg extension comprises a secondary upper leg and a secondary foot, wherein the secondary foot is configured to be positioned, at least partially, between the ground surface and the primary foot when the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position so that the primary leg extension may transfer the load to the secondary leg extension and, wherein, the secondary upper leg connects the secondary foot to the secondary pivot.

25. The exercise step of claim 24, wherein the primary pivot lies on a primary axis and the secondary pivot lies on a secondary axis, and wherein the secondary axis is offset from the primary axis.

26. The exercise step of claim 25, wherein the secondary axis is offset from the primary axis in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platform.

27. The exercise step of claim 26, wherein the exercise step is configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary extended position, the primary foot contacts the secondary foot.

28. The exercise step of claim 26 or 27, wherein the exercise step is configured so that, when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position and the secondary leg extension is in the secondary stowed position, there is a gap between the primary foot and the secondary foot.

29. The exercise step of any one of claims 3 to 28, wherein one or more of the fixed leg, the primary leg extension, and the secondary leg extension defines one or more stacking cutouts to help locate the exercise step on top of another exercise step.

30. The exercise step of claim 21 , wherein the primary leg extension latch comprises an extended position protrusion, a stowed position protrusion, and a primary latch lock spring, wherein the primary latch lock spring is configured to bias the extended position protrusion into contact with the primary latching surface on the fixed leg when the primary leg extension is in the primary extended position and to bias the stowed position protrusion into contact with a primary stowed latching surface on the platform when the primary leg extension is in the primary stowed position.

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