Sports equipment

Abstract

An exercise device for exercising a user's gluteal muscles, performing a supported seated squat from an upward starting position downward and returning upward. The device includes at least one foot ramp having at least one foot support surface for supporting substantially all of the user's feet elevated above the ground during the exercise. The positioning of the user by the foot ramp in combination with the remainder of the exercise device provides a number of benefits to the squat exercise.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a new and improved exercise device. In particular, the present invention relates to an exercise device that is manually operated and targets the gluteal muscles by optimally positioning and supporting a user's hips and feet during exercise. [Background technology]

[0002] The three main muscles of the human gluteal complex, namely the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus ("gluteus muscles"), make up the buttocks and are one of the largest muscle groups in the human body. The gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus are the physical foundation for humans to stand upright and hold the trunk in an upright position. The gluteus maximus allows the body to regain an upright position after leaning forward, and collectively, the gluteus maximus also acts as a rotator for the legs. Additionally, the gluteus maximus supports human bipedal locomotion, from walking to running, jumping, and lateral movement. Additionally, a well-formed buttock is generally considered an integral part of an attractive appearance.

[0003] Despite the importance of the glutes, many humans have underdeveloped glutes. Modern lifestyles are sedentary, effectively shutting down the glutes. As a result, many exercises have been developed to target the glutes, including squats and lunges. Traditionally performed with a barbell on the shoulders, these exercises require a degree of dexterity and balance, as well as strength to lift the barbell into position. Supporting and maintaining the weight in the proper position can be uncomfortable for the user. Proper form is necessary for an effective exercise. Exercise equipment such as the power cage and an upright frame known as the Smith machine can be used to perform squats, preventing the barbell from moving forward, backward, or sideways and allowing the weight to move vertically along a predefined path.

[0004] Proper form is especially important when squatting. To optimally engage the glutes in a squat, the forward movement of the trunk must be countered by the backward movement of the hips while stabilizing the spine. This requires body awareness, coordination, stability, and balance. However, unless specifically trained for the proper movement, squats are often performed incorrectly. For example, a quadriceps-dominant technique puts strain on the knees and back without actually improving the glutes.

[0005] No. 6,299,993, which is to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein in its entirety, describes an exercise device that can be used to properly exercise the gluteal muscles and a method for properly exercising the gluteal muscles. The device described in the above patent includes an upright section having a handle, a buttock support assembly, and a foot tilt section configured to support a portion of the user's foot during exercise. In the exercise described therein, the user is positioned so that the user's buttocks are in contact with a pad, the user holds on to the handle, and the buttock support assembly is in an initial generally horizontal position such that the gluteal muscles are in an initial tension state to maintain contact with the pad. During the exercise, the user pivots the buttock assembly to a lower position with a slow controlled movement by a controlled movement of the buttocks, and then returns the buttock assembly to a starting position with a controlled movement of the buttocks, and the user's arms remain in a fully extended position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise. The device and method described in the above patent provide an effective exercise for the gluteal muscles.

[0006] US Patent No. 5,399,633, issued to the assignee of the present application and incorporated herein in its entirety, describes another type of apparatus that can be used to exercise the gluteal muscles and a method for exercising the gluteal muscles. The apparatus described in US Patent No. 5,399,633 includes an upright portion having a handle, a hip support assembly, and a foot ramp configured to support a portion of a user's foot during exercise. The apparatus also includes a weight stack operably connected to the hip support assembly. During exercise, the weight stack provides a resistive force to move the hip assembly downward and a supporting force to move the hip support assembly upward. The apparatus described in US Patent No. 5,399,633 is generally suitable for commercial use, such as in a gym. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 9,375,607 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Pat. No. 11,117,017 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The embodiments of the invention described herein provide an improvement over the exercises described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,993,333 and 5,952,663. The exercises described herein further target the gluteal muscles by positioning and supporting the user's hips and feet on the exercise apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, an exercise device includes a base including at least one beam extending in a direction X, and at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending above the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the device. A hip support assembly is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to the at least one upright beam between a first position and a second position, the first position being further away from the base in the Y direction than the second position is from the base in the Y direction. A foot tilt structure is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface having a surface area sufficient to support substantially all of a user's feet elevated above the ground.

[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, an exercise device includes a base including at least one beam extending in a direction X, and at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending above the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam disposed on a front side of the device. A hip support assembly is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly pivotable relative to the at least one upright beam between a first position and a second position, the first position being farther from the base in the direction Y than the second position, the hip support assembly including a surface configured to support a user's hips. The device also includes a foot tilt structure disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface configured to support a user's foot. The exercise device is configured such that when the hip support assembly is in the first position, a distance in direction X from a center of a surface of the hip support surface to a center of the foot support surface is about 30 cm to about 60 cm, and a distance in direction Y from a center of a surface of the hip support surface to a center of the foot support surface is about 80 cm to about 90 cm.

[0011] According to another aspect, an exercise device includes a base including at least one beam extending in a direction X. At least one upright beam is connected to the base and extends above the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the device. A hip support assembly is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to the at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being farther away from the base in the direction Y than the second position. A link rod connects the base and the hip support assembly. A foot tilt structure is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure being elevated by at least about 500 cm to support the user's feet above the ground. 2 The at least one foot support surface has a surface area of ​​about 10° to about 35°. The at least one foot support surface is formed at an angle with respect to the ground.

[0012] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, an exercise device for squatting exercise is provided. The device includes a base including at least one beam and at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending above the base, the upright beam including at least one handle area configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the device. A hip support assembly is disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to the at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being higher than the second position. The device further includes a weight support beam operably connected to the hip support assembly, the weight support beam being configured to support one or more weights. A foot tilt structure is disposed between the upright beam and the hip support assembly, the foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface having a surface area sufficient to support substantially all of a user's feet at an elevated position above the ground. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the apparatus in an upright starting position for the exercise. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the instrument. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the instrument. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a detailed view showing the locking bracket of the device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the device in a folded and stored position. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view showing the device in an upright starting position, depicting the orientation of a user therein. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view showing the apparatus in a lowered position, depicting the orientation of a user in a crouched position thereon. [Figure 8A] 8A, 8B, and 8C show a foot ramp according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8B] 8A, 8B, and 8C show a foot ramp according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8C] 8A, 8B, and 8C show a foot ramp according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates the attachment of the foot ramps of the device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a foot ramp according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the device. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a side view of the device. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C is a top view showing an apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of the device. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a side view of the device. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a top view showing an apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the device shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is another perspective view of the device shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] A complete understanding of the embodiments of the present invention will be achieved by considering the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0015] An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a generic type of exercise machine in which a user is supported by the machine to perform a squatting motion, and the machine can control both the squatting motion and the user's return to an upright position.

[0016] As shown in the drawings, and particularly in Figures 1-3, an exemplary embodiment of exercise device 10 comprises a base 12 formed of a pair of parallel horizontal beams 14. Floor pads 16 are disposed at either end thereof to elevate the beams 14 slightly above the floor surface along their length and provide a non-skid contact surface with the floor. Wheels 18 may be journalled to the pair of pads in a known manner to aid in movement of the device. The wheels 18 may be disposed at the front of the beams 14 as depicted, at the rear of the beams 14, or at both the front and rear of the beams 14. The two beams 14 are joined at either end by a cross beam 46.

[0017] A pair of upright beams 20 extend upwardly from the base beam 14 and terminate at their upper ends in a pair of handles 22. The handles 22 may be provided with a cushioned cover, as is known in the art, to provide a comfortable surface for the user's hands. The handles 22 may also be adjustable in height to accommodate users of various heights. The upright beams 20 may be pivotally connected to the base beam 14 so that they can be folded downwardly to a storage position, as described below. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations of the base beam 14, upright beams 20 and handles 22 are possible, such as a single base beam, single upright beam and single handle structure.

[0018] The upright beam 20 is provided with a mounting for the forward end of a buttocks pad support arm 24 which may also be pivotally connected to the upright beam 20 by a transverse rod 26. The arm 24 supports at its distal end a buttocks pad surface 28 which forms an acute angle with the horizontal when the arm is in an upward, generally horizontal position. The angle may be at 45 degrees. The support arm 24 may be of telescoping structure and its overall length may be maintained by a locking knob assembly 30 which may apply a holding pressure against an inner telescoping element and / or a pin may pass through a selected one of a plurality of spaced holes in the inner element aligned with the knob assembly, in accordance with known methods.

[0019] A link system 32 including at least one rod connects the base 12 and the pad support arm 24. In the depicted embodiment of the invention, the link system 32 includes a biasing element, such as a damper, that provides a counter force against the downward movement of the buttocks pad 28 and the support arm 24 and a return force to drive the pad and the support arm upward from the lowered position. The damper is adjustable in strength. As shown, the damper may be a shock absorber-like member that resists compression of the damper piston into the damper body and provides a return force directed toward extension of the piston to the extended position. In some embodiments, a dial structure may be included to allow a user to vary the resistance to compression provided by the damper. Adjustment may also be achieved by varying the connection location of the damper along the base, for example, by selectively attaching to a selected one of the spaced holes 34 in the U-shaped retaining portion 36. As the angle of the damper relative to the vertical increases, the degree of compression provided by movement of the piston rod 38 decreases over the range of motion of the support arm, and correspondingly the amount of force required to compress it decreases.

[0020] The base beam 14 also supports a pair of foot ramps 40 that project upwardly and outwardly from the beam 14, the foot ramps 40 being positioned rearwardly of the upright beam 20. The foot ramps 40 are described in more detail below. It should be noted that while the exercise device 10 as depicted includes two foot ramps 40 on opposite sides of the device 10, in other embodiments a single foot ramp structure may be provided, with a single structure providing surface areas for the user's feet on both sides of the device 10. An example of a single foot ramp structure is described below.

[0021] As detailed in Figure 4, the upright beams 20 are journalled for pivotal movement between an upright position as shown in Figures 1-3 and a folded position as shown in Figure 5 by a pair of pivot joints 42 which connect them to the base beam 14. An arm 44 extends forwardly from one of the upright beams 20 adjacent its pivot joints and supports a locking member 48 which comprises a threaded rod extending through the arm with an operating knob. Although one arm 44 and one locking member 48 are depicted, in other embodiments, two arms 44 and one locking member 48 may be provided such that an arm and locking member are associated with each of the upright beams 20. 44 It should be noted that the upright beam 20 may have two locking members 48. The locking members 48 are arranged to engage complementary threaded holes in the forward base cross beam 46, and when engaged, the upright beam 20 is held in the vertical operating position. In another embodiment, instead of the locking members 48, a clamp is provided to hold the upright beam 20 in the vertical operating position. When the rod and bore are manually disengaged, the upright beam 20 can be pivoted back to lie between the base beams 14, as shown in FIG. 5. With the damper 32 out of the retainer 36, the buttocks pad support arm 24 can be pivoted forward to lie between the folded upright beams 20, with the damper 32 lying along the arm 24. When folded, the unit is compact and easy to carry and store. One end of the folded unit can be lifted up, and a wheel at the opposite end allows the unit to be rolled as desired. To reassemble the device, the hip support arm 24 is pivoted rearwardly, the upright beam 20 is raised to its operative position, and the locking member 48 is screwed into the cross beam 46 to secure it in place.

[0022] As noted above, the '691 patent describes an apparatus and method that provides an effective exercise of the gluteal muscles. The apparatus and method described herein provide an even more effective exercise due to the difference in the positioning of the user during the squat exercise. This positioning is made possible, in part, by the configuration and placement of the foot ramps relative to the rest of the apparatus, as described herein, which support the user's feet at an elevated position above the ground.

[0023] The foot support surface area of ​​the foot ramps and the higher foot positioning that they allow provide several advantages. For example, the foot ramps provide a surface area that accommodates different foot positions and foot angles (e.g., toes turned inward or outward). The larger surface area provides a more comprehensive range of foot positioning options, which allows users of various body types more options to find the foot position that suits them. By varying the foot positioning, the device allows squats with a relatively wider or narrower stance to target specific aspects of hip and hip development. For example, a wider stance allows for more hip adduction or inner thigh strength. Varying the foot angle also allows for more variation in hip rotation, utilizing different neuromuscular patterns to better develop hip and hip strength. Furthermore, allowing for a variety of foot positions allows for more advanced squat movements.

[0024] As yet another advantage, the increased angle of the foot ramps relative to the buttock support pads of the device allows the user to easily shift their weight onto their heels, thereby correcting the user's natural tendency to pull their weight forward onto their toes during a squat. That is, positioning the user on a device with foot ramps according to embodiments of the present invention helps the user to shift their weight onto their heels, thereby loading the glutes during a squat. Additionally, positioning the user on a device with foot ramps can help the user find the right heel pressure without dorsiflexing the ankles (i.e., without pulling the tops of the feet up), thereby freeing up neural energy. That is, the positioning and angle of the foot ramps naturally encourages the user to push from the heels. The increased heel pressure connects more directly to the posterior chain muscles, activating the glutes more.

[0025] 6 and 7 are diagrams illustrating the positioning of a user with an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention while performing a method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The user of the apparatus straddles the buttock support arms 24 and places his / her buttocks on the pad surface 28. The inclination of the pad requires the user to maintain his / her position on the pad by tensing the muscles of the legs and buttocks, rather than simply sitting on the pad in a relaxed position. The user's feet are placed on the foot inclines 40, which provide a sufficient surface area to support substantially all of the user's feet at an elevated position above the ground. The distance between the buttock pad 28 and the handle 22 is adjusted via the lock arm assembly 30 so that the user's arms are substantially extended and the user can maintain an upright position on the pad 28. As the user squats in a controlled and relaxed manner, the damper elements of the link system provide an upward counter force, helping to control the rate of descent, and the user exercises the gluteal muscles to affect the desired controlled descent. In the lower position shown in Figure 7, the user's knees are behind the toes and generally in line with or behind the ankles. This positioning reduces pressure on the knees in a squat motion. As the user rises from the lower position, the upward force of the damper assists the user, allowing the user to rise in a slower, more controlled manner, further engaging the glutes.

[0026] The squat motion induced by the equipment as shown in Figures 6 and 7 positions the user to obtain the most benefit from the exercise that is difficult to achieve with a conventional squat motion. The movement of the pad support arm 24 and pad 28 guides the user in the proper path to load the user's hips (i.e., gluteal muscles). A conventional squat is considered a "just down" motion that ends with the user collapsing in front of the body as the knees come forward and load the quadriceps. However, as described herein, the tension fed back by the equipment guides the user backward and downward in a gentle arc that guides the user's own weight toward the hips and away from the knees. Furthermore, muscle engagement is initiated by the tension from the equipment as the user enters the backward and downward path of the squat. In a conventional squat, gravity acts downward, so there is nothing to prompt the human muscles to fire properly without advanced training and experience in squatting. The devices described herein promote tension in the psoas, abdominals, hip flexors, and hamstrings to pull the user down, which prepares the glutes to propel the user out of the bottom position.

[0027] In order to position the user to achieve the above-mentioned advantages, in an embodiment of the present invention, the exercise device 10 is configured with specific ranges of horizontal X and vertical Y distances between the pad surface 28 and the foot ramps 40. In this regard, the distance X1 is the distance measured horizontally from the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to the center C40 of each of the foot support surfaces of the foot ramps 40, and the distance Y1 is the distance measured vertically from the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to the center C40 of each of the foot support surfaces of the foot ramps 40. Note that because the center of the pad surface 28 is not directly above the center C40 of each of the foot ramps in the vertical direction, and the center of the pad surface 28 is not directly aligned with each of the foot ramps in the horizontal direction, as can be seen in Figures 2, 8, and 9, the distances X1 and Y1 are distances measured horizontally and vertically. In other terms, the distance X1 is the distance along a line perpendicular to the vertical plane including the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to the vertical plane including the center C40 of the foot support surface of the foot ramp 40, and the distance Y1 is the distance along a line perpendicular to the horizontal plane including the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to the horizontal plane including the center C40 of the foot support surface of the foot ramp 40. If the distances X1 and Y1 are interpreted as vectors, the vectors of the distances X1 and Y1 are added together to form a vector on a straight line from the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to both centers C40 of the foot support surfaces of both foot ramps 40.

[0028] When the hip support assembly is in the uppermost position as shown in FIG. 6, the horizontal distance X1 from the center C28 of the pad surface 28 to the center C40 of each of the foot ramps 40 ranges from about 30 cm to about 60 cm, and the vertical distance Y1 from the center C28 of the pad to the center C40 of each of the foot ramps 40 ranges from about 80 cm to about 90 cm. As mentioned above, the overall length of the arms 24 is adjustable and therefore falls within the ranges of the distances X1 and Y1. These ranges correspond to the size of most adult humans. Furthermore, the proportions of the apparatus are such that when the arms 24 are adjusted to accommodate a particular individual, the distances X1 and Y1 provide a squat motion that achieves many of the benefits described above.

[0029] 8A shows a top view of foot ramp 40, FIG. 8B shows a side view of foot ramp 40, and FIG. 8C shows a bottom view of foot ramp 40. Foot ramp 40 includes a foot support surface 402 on which a user places their feet when using the device described herein. Surface 402 is provided with a number of raised ribs to provide better traction. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, various other structures can be formed or disposed on surface 402 to provide better traction. Foot ramp 40 also includes an opening 408 and a clip 406. As will be described below, opening 408 and clip 406 allow foot ramp 40 to be attached and detached to other portions of the device structure in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 B As shown in FIG. 1, an angle α is formed between the surface on which the foot ramp 40 rests (e.g., the ground) and the foot support surface 402 of the foot ramp 40. In more specific embodiments of the invention, the angle α may be between about 10° and about 35°. In more specific embodiments of the invention, the angle α may be between about 13° and about 25°. In even more specific embodiments, the angle α is between about 15° and about 20°. In a particular embodiment, the angle is about 18°.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 8B, the front surface 404 of the foot ramp 40 extends in the X direction from the top edge 409 of the foot ramp 40. Thus, the foot ramp 40 has the shape of a trapezoidal prism with an acute angle β formed between the front surface 404 and an edge 410 along the bottom surface of the foot ramp 40, and an obtuse angle γ formed between the foot support surface 402 and the edge of the front surface 404. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the angle β is about 70°. Forming the foot ramp 40 into a trapezoidal shape provides increased stability and strength compared to a wedge-shaped foot ramp. To further increase the strength and stability of the foot ramp 404, a webbing 412 is formed on the inside of the foot ramp 404, and a filler material 414 is disposed in a portion of the opening 408. In FIG. 8C, the filler material 414 is disposed on the right side of the foot ramp 40. However, the filler material 414 may alternatively be disposed on the left side of the foot ramp 40. The alternating placement of filler material 414 allows foot ramps 404 to be easily adapted for placement on either the right or left side of exercise device 10, as will be described below.

[0032] In an embodiment of the invention, the foot support surface 402 is sized so that substantially all of an adult user's foot rests on the foot support surface 402. For example, the surface may be sized to have a length L of at least about 20 cm and a width of at least about 15 cm, thereby providing a surface area of ​​at least about 300 cm to accommodate substantially all, if not all, of an adult user's foot. 2 As another example, the surface area may be at least about 500 cm 2 In a particular embodiment, the foot support surface 402 has a length of about 27 cm and a width of about 19 cm, thereby providing a surface area of ​​about 513 cm. 2 A person skilled in the art will understand how to vary the length L and width W dimensions of foot support surface 402 to accommodate the feet of most adult users.

[0033] FIG. 9 shows in detail how the foot ramps 40 are connected to the exercise device 10. In this view, the foot ramps 40 on the right side of the device 10 are fixed in place, and the foot ramps 40 on the left side of the device are moved to connect with the device 10. To connect the foot ramps 40, a clip 406 is placed on one of the horizontal beams 14 and an opening 408 fits over the smaller foot ramps 41 that extend perpendicular to the horizontal beams 14. In this manner, the foot ramps 40 can be easily attached and detached from the device 10. Additionally, the device 10 can be configured with alternating smaller foot ramps 41 or larger foot ramps 40. Having different sizes of foot ramps available allows the exercise device 10 to be tailored to the desires of a particular user. For example, larger foot ramps 40 allow for different types of workouts, improving workout options. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is not necessary to have multiple sizes of foot ramps to achieve the benefits of the present invention described herein, and that it is possible to construct the device with only the larger foot ramps 40, for example by screwing the larger foot ramps 40 onto the exercise device 10.

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates a foot ramp 40A according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Unlike the foot ramp 40 described above, the foot ramp 40A does not include a clip 406 for securing the foot ramp 40A to the horizontal beam 14 of the exercise device 10. Instead, a strap 43 is provided for securing the foot ramp 40A to the exercise device. The strap 43 is removably connected to the foot ramp 40A, for example, by corresponding button structures 45 and 47 provided on the strap 43 and the foot ramp 40A, respectively. When placed on the foot ramp 41 of the device 10, the strap extends from one end of the foot ramp 40A along the underside of the foot ramp 40A and the foot ramp 41, and is secured at the other end of the foot ramp 40A.

[0035] 11A-11C show an exercise device 11 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the exercise device 10 described above, in this embodiment, the device 11 includes a horizontal beam 140, an upright beam 220, a link rod 320, two handles 222, a padded support arm 240, and a buttocks pad surface 280, with the support arm 240 having a telescopic structure such that the overall length of the support arm 240 can be maintained by a lock knob assembly 230. The exercise device 11 differs from the device 10 described above in that the base of the device includes one horizontal beam 140, and one foot ramp 500 is connected to the horizontal beam 140. The exercise device 11 also includes a video display monitor 600. The exercise device 11 can be configured to allow a user to perform a squat exercise similar to that described above. In this regard, the foot ramp 500 is provided with two foot support surfaces 501A and 501B for the feet of the user, each of which is configured similarly to the respective foot support surface 402 of the foot ramp 40 described above. Furthermore, the device 11 is configured, like the device 10 described above, with the distances in the horizontal X direction and vertical Y direction between the center of the pad surface 280 and the centers of the foot support surfaces 501A and 501B of the foot ramp 500 set to specific ranges.

[0036] 12A-12C show an exercise device 12 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Similar to exercise devices 10 and 11 described above, in this embodiment, device 12 includes a horizontal beam 640, an upright beam 720, a link rod 820, two handles 722, a padded support arm 724, and a buttocks pad surface 780, and is connected to support arm 72. 4has a telescopic structure such that the overall length of the support arm 720 can be maintained by the lock knob assembly 730. The exercise device 12 differs from the above-mentioned devices in that the base of the device has two arms 642A and 642B at the front side of the device and two arms 641A and 641B at the rear side of the device. A foot ramp 900 is connected to the horizontal beam 640. The exercise device 12 can be configured to allow a user to perform a squat exercise similar to that described above. In this regard, the foot ramp 900 is provided with two foot support surfaces 901A and 901B for the user's feet, each of which is configured similarly to the respective foot support surfaces 402 of the foot ramp 40 described above. Furthermore, the device 12 is configured with the horizontal X-direction and vertical Y-direction distances between the center of the pad surface 280 and the centers of the foot support surfaces 901A and 901B of the foot ramp 900 set to specific ranges, similar to the above-mentioned device 10.

[0037] 13 and 14 are perspective views of an exercise device 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As with the previously described embodiments, the exercise device 1000 can be used to perform a squat exercise. However, as will be described below, the exercise device 1000 differs from the previously described embodiments in that it is configured to provide weighted resistance in a squat exercise.

[0038] The exercise device 1000 includes a base 1012 having four beams 1013, 1014, 1015, and 1016. Non-skid floor pads 1017 are disposed on the beams 1013, 1014, 1015, and 1016. A U-shaped upright beam 1020 extends upward from the beam 1013, and a pair of handles 1022 extend upward from the beam 1020. The handles 1022 may be provided with a cushioned cover to provide a comfortable surface for the user's hands. The handles 1022 may also be adjustable in height to accommodate users of various heights. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in alternative embodiments, the handles may be positioned and configured differently than shown in the depicted embodiment. For example, in another embodiment, a horizontal handle bar is provided for the user to grasp.

[0039] Another upright beam 1023 extends upwardly from the beam 1013. The upright beam 1023 supports an axle 1019 about which a support arm 1024 is pivotable. The arm 1024 supports a buttocks pad surface 1028 at its distal end. The support arm 1024 may be extendable and may be maintained, for example, by a locking knob, similar to the embodiments described above.

[0040] The exercise device 1000 includes a positioning cam 1018 connected to a support arm 1024 and an upright beam 1023. A plurality of openings 1039A-1039E are formed through the positioning cam 1018. An opening 1031 in the support arm 1024 may be positioned to align with one of the openings 1039A-1039E, and this alignment may be fixed by using a locking pin 1032 that extends through the opening 1031 and the aligned one of the openings 1039A-1039E. The initial angle of the arm 1024 and pad 1028 relative to the horizontal (ground) may be adjusted by selecting one of the openings 1039A-1039E to align with the opening 1031. Thus, the pad 1028 may be adjusted to accommodate users of different heights and leg / torso ratios.

[0041] Weight Support Bar 104 1 extends from the front end of the support arm 1024. 1 extend from opposite sides of the support arm 1024 such that a disc weight 1042 is located on each side of the support arm 1024. By providing the weights 1042 on both sides of the support arm 1024, there is less stress on the bar and less stress on the rolling bearings compared to a configuration in which the weights are located on one side of the support arm 1024.

[0042] When the support arms 1024 and buttock support pads 1028 are in the first position shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the support pads 1028 are vertically positioned above the weights 1042. When the user squats down against the support pads 1028, the weights 1042 are moved upward. Thus, the weights 1042 provide resistance to the downward squatting motion of the user of the exercise apparatus 1000. The resistance is directly proportional to the number of weights 1042 supported on the support bar 400, so the force can be easily adjusted over a wide range by adding or removing the weights 1042. The weights 1042 also provide an assist force as the user moves upward from the bottom of the squat. Additionally, while the assist force from the weights 1042 assists the user in moving upward, the user can also benefit from resisting the upward force provided by the biasing elements of the weight and link system 1032. That is, if the user moves upward slowly against the support force, the squat motion is further enhanced.

[0043] The configuration of the device 1000 allows a user to easily enter the device and position themselves initially within the device. That is, as shown in FIG. 13, a user can enter the device from the left side of the device without having to lift both feet over a portion of the device. This configuration may therefore be beneficial for users with limited mobility. Also, the device 1000 may be easily used, for example, as part of a rehabilitation program for an injured person. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although in the illustrated embodiment the opening side is on the left side, the configuration of the device may be reversed so that the device opens to the right side as shown.

[0044] The exercise device 1000 also includes a foot tilt structure 1040, which may have the configuration of the foot tilt structure in the embodiments described above. For example, the foot tilt structure 1040 may be configured to have the same angle relative to the ground, the same foot support surface area, and the same positioning relative to the buttock support pad 1028 as in the embodiments described above. As in the embodiments described above, the foot tilt structure 1040 is sized and configured such that the entire foot of the user is supported by the structure. While the foot tilt structure 1040 depicted in Figures 13 and 14 is provided as one structure for both feet of the user, in other embodiments, separate foot ramps for one foot of the user may be provided on the right and left sides of the device 1000. In still other embodiments, the foot tilt structure 1040 may be adjustable so that the angle of the foot support surface relative to the ground can be changed.

[0045] Compared to the exercise device described in Patent Document 2, the exercise device 1000 is a simpler machine. For example, unlike the exercise device described in Patent Document 2, the exercise device 1000 does not include a pulley system, and all movements are realized by rotating bearings. Also, the weights 1042 used with the exercise device 1000 can be easily changed and / or replaced, whereas the device described in Patent Document 2 may need to be disassembled if the weights used therein need to be replaced. The high position of the weights in the embodiments described herein is also to provide a smoother movement in conjunction with the rotating bearings.

[0046] Figures 15 and 16 show another embodiment of the invention. The device 1200 in this embodiment includes many of the same elements as the embodiment depicted in Figures 14 and 15, including a base 1212 having four beams 1213, 1214, 1215, and 1216, with a non-skid floor pad 1217 disposed on the beams 1213, 1214, 1215, and 1216. A U-shaped upright beam 1220 extends upwardly from the beam 1213, and a pair of handles 1022 extend upwardly from the beam 1220. Another upright beam 1223 extends upwardly from the beam 1213. The upright beam 1223 supports an axle 1219 about which a support arm 1224 is pivotable. The arm 1224 supports a buttocks pad surface 1228 at its distal end. The support arm 1224 may be extendable and may be maintained, for example, by a locking knob, similar to the embodiment described above. A positioning cam 1218 is connected to the support arm 1224 and the upright beam 1223, and a number of openings 1239A-E are formed through the positioning cam 1218. An opening 1231 in the support arm 1024 is secured by a locking pin 1232 to align with one of the openings 1239A-E, similar to the device 1000 described above. Like the device 1000, the device 1200 is also in an open-sided configuration, allowing the user to easily position themselves on the device.

[0047] The exercise device 1200 also includes a foot ramp structure 1240, which may have the configuration of the foot ramp structure in the embodiments described above. For example, the foot ramp structure 1240 may be configured to have the same angle relative to the ground, the same foot support surface area, and the same positioning relative to the buttock support pad 1228 as in the embodiments described above. As in the embodiments described above, the foot ramp structure 1240 is sized and configured such that the entire foot of the user is supported by the structure. While the foot ramp structure 1240 depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16 is provided as one structure for both feet of the user, in other embodiments, separate foot ramps for one foot of the user may be provided on the right and left sides of the device 1200. In still other embodiments, the foot ramp structure 1240 may be adjustable so that the angle of the foot support surface relative to the ground can be changed.

[0048] Instead of a weight support bar as in device 1000 described above, device 1200 includes a link system 1230. Similar to the link systems in the previously described embodiments, link system 1230 2 3 0 The buttocks pad 1 includes a biasing element such as a damper. 2 28 and support arm 1 2 24 and provides a counter force to the downward movement of pad 1 2 28 and support arm 1 2 24 upward from the lowered position. The damper is adjustable in force and in some embodiments may include a dial structure to allow the user to vary the resistance to compression provided by the damper.

[0049] Similar to the configuration of device 1000, the configuration of device 1200 allows a user to easily enter and initially position themselves within the device, i.e., as shown in Fig. 15, a user can enter the device from the left side of the device without having to lift both feet onto a structure, or, in the opposite embodiment to that depicted in Fig. 15, a user can enter the device from the right side of the device.

[0050] Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes a combination of elements of device 1000 and device 1200. In this embodiment, the device includes a weight support bar configured to support disc weights, similar to device 1000, and the device includes a link system having a biasing element, similar to device 1200. The device of this embodiment also includes the same configuration of base, upright beam, support arms, hip support pads, handles, and foot ramps as devices 1000 and 1200.

[0051] While various exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example and not limitation. Various changes in form and detail will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A base including at least one beam extending in a direction X; at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending upward from the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the exercise device; a hip support assembly disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being farther away from the base in the Y direction than the second position; a foot tilt structure disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface having a surface area sufficient to support substantially all of the user's feet elevated above the ground; Exercise equipment comprising:

2. The at least one foot support surface is at least about 300 cm on one side of the exercise device. ２ and having an area of ​​at least about 300 cm on the second side of the exercise device. ２ 10. The exercise device of claim 1, configured to have an area of

3. 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the foot tilt structure includes a left foot tilt structure and a right foot tilt structure, and when viewed toward the front side of the exercise device, the left foot tilt structure is located to the left of at least a portion of the base, and the right foot tilt structure is located to the right of at least a portion of the base.

4. The exercise device of claim 1 , further comprising a link rod connected to the base and the hip support assembly.

5. Each of the left foot ramp and the right foot ramp is at least about 300 cm ２ 5. The exercise device of claim 4 having a foot support surface having an area of

6. The exercise device of claim 1 , wherein the foot ramp structure is a single structure including foot ramps on opposite sides of the exercise device.

7. 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the at least one foot tilt structure has a trapezoidal prism shape with an obtuse angle γ formed between the foot support surface and an adjacent front surface of the at least one foot tilt structure.

8. A base including at least one beam extending in a direction X; at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending upward from the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the exercise device; a hip support assembly disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being farther away from the base in the Y direction than the second position, the hip support assembly including a surface configured to support the hips of the user; a foot tilt structure portion disposed rearward of the upright beam and including at least one foot support surface configured to support the user's foot; Equipped with the exercise device is configured such that when the hip support assembly is in the first position, a distance in the X direction from a center of a surface of the hip support surface to a center of the foot support surface is about 30 cm to about 60 cm, and a distance in the Y direction from a center of a surface of the hip support surface to a center of the foot support surface is about 80 cm to about 90 cm.

9. The at least one foot support surface is at least about 300 cm on one side of the exercise device. ２ and having an area of ​​at least about 300 cm on the second side of the exercise device. ２9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the exercise device is configured to have an area of

10. 9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the foot tilt structure includes a left foot tilt structure and a right foot tilt structure, and when viewed toward the front side of the exercise device, the left foot tilt structure is located to the left of at least a portion of the base, and the right foot tilt structure is located to the right of at least a portion of the base.

11. 9. The exercise device of claim 8, further comprising a link rod connected to the base and the hip support assembly.

12. Each of the foot support surfaces is at least about 300 cm ２ 12. The exercise device of claim 11 having an area of

13. 10. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the foot ramp structure is a single structure including foot ramps on opposite sides of the exercise device.

14. 9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the at least one foot tilt structure has a trapezoidal prism shape with an obtuse angle γ formed between the foot support surface and an adjacent front surface of the at least one foot tilt structure.

15. A base including at least one beam extending in a direction X; at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending upward from the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being disposed on a front side of the exercise device; a hip support assembly disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being higher in the Y direction than the second position; a link rod connected to the base and the hip support assembly, and a foot tilt structure disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure being at least about 500 cm in height to support the user's feet at an elevated position above the ground; ２ a foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface having a surface area of Equipped with The at least one foot support surface is formed at an angle of about 10° to about 35° with respect to the ground.

16. 17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the foot tilt structure includes a left foot tilt structure and a right foot tilt structure, the left foot tilt structure being located to the left of at least a portion of the base and the right foot tilt structure being located to the right of at least a portion of the base when viewed toward the front side of the exercise device.

17. 17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the foot ramp structure is a single structure that includes foot ramps on opposite sides of the exercise device.

18. 17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the at least one foot tilt structure has a trapezoidal prism shape with an obtuse angle γ formed between the foot support surface and an adjacent front surface of the at least one foot tilt structure.

19. 17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the at least one foot support surface is formed at an angle of about 15 degrees to about 20 degrees with respect to the ground.

20. a base including at least one beam in a direction X; at least one upright beam connected to the base and extending upward from the base in a direction Y perpendicular to the direction X, the upright beam including at least one handle region configured to be held by a user, the upright beam being positioned at a front side of the exercise apparatus for the squat exercise; a hip support assembly disposed rearward of the upright beam, the hip support assembly being pivotable relative to at least one upright handle between a first position and a second position, the first position being farther away from the base in the Y direction than the second position; a weight support beam operably connected to the hip support assembly, the weight support beam configured to support one or more weights; a foot tilt structure disposed rearward of the upright beam, the foot tilt structure including at least one foot support surface having a surface area sufficient to support substantially all of the user's feet elevated above the ground; An exercise machine for squatting comprising:

21. 22. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein when the hip support assembly is in the first position, the weight support beam is positioned to support the one or more weights above a surface supporting the exercise device.

22. 22. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein the hip support assembly includes a support pad at a first end and the weight support beam is disposed adjacent a second end of the hip support assembly.

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