Exercise apparatus

Abstract

An exercise apparatus that is configured to provide spotting of a user during resistance exercises. The present invention includes a frame wherein the frame comprises a plurality of vertical and horizontal support members operably coupled via mechanical elements. Barbell guide rod members extend between the upper and lower horizontal support members of the frame and have a barbell slidably coupled thereto. A peg assembly is provided wherein the peg assembly is configured to be releasably coupled into one of a multitude of apertures present in the vertical support members. The peg assembly includes a U-shaped support member having peg members operably coupled thereto wherein the peg members extend outward from the U-shaped support member. The peg assembly further includes a lower support member integrally formed with the U-shaped support member. The present invention employs a counterweight assembly that is operably coupled to the barbell providing assistance with moving weight thereon.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment, more specifically but not by way of limitation, an exercise apparatus that includes a barbell operably coupled to guide rods wherein the present invention includes a peg assembly that is releasably secured to vertical support members of the machine.BACKGROUND

[0002] The Smith machine is a common piece of fitness equipment. As is known in the art, the Smith machine has the barbells attached to rails which permits a user to employ the Smith machine to spot themselves while they exercise and the design of the machine eliminates the need of the user to keep the barbell balanced during execution of an exercise. This feature is the most significant benefit of the conventional Smith machine as many people will exercise with weights by themselves and as such the Smith machine allows a user to spot themselves. Not only is the bar attached to a rail system, but the conventional Smith machine also has pegs every couple of inches where you can lock the bar in place. This provides a multitude of heights that a user can lock the bar at almost any location of the exercise movement and then safely exit the machine.

[0003] One issue with conventional Smith machines and other similar types of exercise apparatus is that the pegs are fixed onto a separate upright support member which takes up space and adds costs to the manufacturing and as such the cost of the machine. Additionally, some conventional exercise machines do not have counterbalance elements that are capable of being secured to the barbell.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for a compact exercise apparatus that employs guide rods for a barbell wherein the apparatus of the present invention includes a peg assembly and a counterweight element.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is the object of the present invention to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements wherein the present invention includes a frame having a plurality of vertical and horizontal support members.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the vertical support members of the frame include a plurality of apertures.

[0007] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements that further includes a peg assembly that is configured to be releasably coupled to the apertures in the vertical support members of the frame.

[0008] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the peg assembly of the present invention include a U-shaped support member.

[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements wherein the peg assembly includes a plurality of peg members operably coupled to an exterior surface of the U-shaped support member.

[0010] An additional object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the peg assembly includes a lower support member integrally formed with the U-shaped support member.

[0011] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements that further includes a counterweight assembly operably coupled to the barbell of the present invention.

[0012] To the accomplishment of the above and related objects the present invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact that the drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being a part of the present invention, limited only by the scope of the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A more complete understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the following Detailed Description and appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a detailed view of a guide rod mounting bracket; and

[0015] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the peg assembly of the present invention; and

[0016] FIG. 3 is a detailed view of vertical support members of the frame having the peg assembly operably coupled thereto; and

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Referring now to the drawings submitted herewith, wherein various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale and wherein through the views and figures like elements are referenced with identical reference numerals, there is illustrated an exercise apparatus 100 constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0019] An embodiment of the present invention is discussed herein with reference to the figures submitted herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes and that it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that alternative embodiments are plausible. By way of example but not by way of limitation, those having skill in the art in light of the present teachings of the present invention will recognize a plurality of alternate and suitable approaches dependent upon the needs of the particular application to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond that of the particular implementation choices in the embodiment described herein. Various modifications and embodiments are within the scope of the present invention.

[0020] It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, materials, uses and applications described herein, as these may vary. Furthermore, it is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0021] References “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “exemplary embodiments”, and the like may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure or characteristic.

[0022] Referring in particular to the Figures submitted herewith, the exercise apparatus 100 includes a frame 10. Frame 10 is manufactured from durable rigid material such as but not limited to metal. The frame 10 includes a plurality of vertical support members 12 and horizontal support members 14 that are coupled to define an exercise area 2. The vertical support members 12 and horizontal support members 14 in a preferred embodiment are manufactured from square metal tubing and are operably coupled utilizing suitable mechanical elements and techniques such as but not limited to bracket members 16 illustrated herein. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the frame 10 could be provided in alternate sizes as well as be configured in an alternate shape than the embodiment illustrated herein. The vertical support members 12 have formed therein a multitude of apertures 13 arranged in a linear pattern along the vertical support members 12. The apertures 13 provide a technique to releasably coupled the peg assembly 30 to the vertical support members 12 as is further discussed herein.

[0023] The frame 10 further includes barbell guide rod members 20. The barbell guide rod members 20 are operably coupled intermediate the lower horizontal support members 8 and the upper horizontal support members 9 and are positioned in a vertical orientation. The barbell guide rod members 20 are operably coupled in position with couplers 23 and bracket members 29 and is configured to have the barbell 21 movably coupled thereto. The barbell 21 is positioned horizontally across the barbell guide rod members 20 and is slidably coupled thereto utilizing keepers 24. The ends of the barbell 21 are sized so as to accommodate conventional weight plates to be placed thereon. The barbell 21 has operably coupled thereto hook members 27,28. Hook members 27, 28 are movable so as to be operably coupled to the peg members 31 of the peg assembly 30 as is further discussed herein.

[0024] The exercise apparatus 100 includes peg assembly 30. Two peg assemblies 30 are utilized during use of the exercise apparatus 100 wherein the peg assemblies 30 are releasably secured to the vertical support members 5,6. The peg assembly 30 includes a U-shaped support member 32 having a first portion 33, second portion 34 and third portion 35 integrally formed. The peg members 31 extend outward from the first portion 31 and are configured to have the hook members 27,28 operably coupled thereto. The peg members 31 are oriented in a linear vertical manner and it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that a portion of the peg members 30 extends across the void 37 of the U-shaped support member 32 and is operably coupled with the third portion 35. While four peg members 31 are illustrated herein, it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the peg assembly 30 could have more or less than four peg members 30.

[0025] The peg assembly 30 further includes lower support member 40. Lower support member 40 is integrally formed with the first portion 33 of the U-shaped support member 32. Lower support member 40 includes a first segment 41 and a second segment 42 wherein the second segment 42 is perpendicular to the first segment 41 and parallel with the second portion 34 of the U-shaped support member 32. A void 44 is intermediate the second segment 42 and second portion 34 wherein the void 44 is operable to receive a vertical support member 12 therein ensuing the peg assembly 30 being operably coupled to a vertical support member 12. The peg assembly 30 further includes a rod member 45. Rod member 45 is secured to the outer surface of the second portion 34 extending outward therefrom being perpendicular thereto. The rod member 45 is operable to be journaled in an aperture 13 of the vertical support members 12 so as to facilitate releasable coupling of the peg assembly 30 to the vertical support member 12. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the peg assembly 30 could be releasably coupled to the vertical support members 12 at any location therealong.

[0026] The exercise apparatus 100 further includes a counterweight assembly 50 operably coupled to barbell 21. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the exercise apparatus 100 could be provided with or without the counterweight assembly 50. The counterweight assembly 50 can be employed by a user to provide assistance in moving weight during an exercise that is operably disposed on the barbell 21. The counterweight assembly 50 includes a weight stack 51 operably coupled to weight support rod member 52. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the weight stack 51 could be comprised of an alternate quantity of weights depending upon the desired objective of the user of the exercise apparatus 100. A cable 53 is operably coupled to the weight stack 51 being journaled through the weight support rod member 52. Cable 53 is routed and operably coupled to pullies 54 wherein the distal end of the cable 53 is operably coupled to the keepers 24. The weight stack 51 acts as a counterbalance for the barbell 21 and any weight operably coupled thereto so as to decrease the work requirement to move the barbell 21 and weight operably coupled thereto.

[0027] In the preceding detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, and certain variants thereof, have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is to be understood that other suitable embodiments may be utilized and that logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. The description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The preceding detailed description is, therefore, not intended to be limited to the specific forms set forth herein, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as can be reasonably included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Referring now to the drawings submitted herewith, wherein various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale and wherein through the views and figures like elements are referenced with identical reference numerals, there is illustrated an exercise apparatus 100 constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0019]An embodiment of the present invention is discussed herein with reference to the figures submitted herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes and that it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that alternative embodiments are plausible. By way of example but not by way of limitation, those having skill in the art in light of the present teachings of the present invention will recognize a plurality of alternate and suitable approaches dependent upon the needs of the particular application to implement the function...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment, more specifically but not by way of limitation, an exercise apparatus that includes a barbell operably coupled to guide rods wherein the present invention includes a peg assembly that is releasably secured to vertical support members of the machine.BACKGROUND

[0002] The Smith machine is a common piece of fitness equipment. As is known in the art, the Smith machine has the barbells attached to rails which permits a user to employ the Smith machine to spot themselves while they exercise and the design of the machine eliminates the need of the user to keep the barbell balanced during execution of an exercise. This feature is the most significant benefit of the conventional Smith machine as many people will exercise with weights by themselves and as such the Smith machine allows a user to spot themselves. Not only is the bar attached to a rail system, but the conventional Smith machine also has pegs every couple of inches where you can lock the bar in place. This provides a multitude of heights that a user can lock the bar at almost any location of the exercise movement and then safely exit the machine.

[0003] One issue with conventional Smith machines and other similar types of exercise apparatus is that the pegs are fixed onto a separate upright support member which takes up space and adds costs to the manufacturing and as such the cost of the machine. Additionally, some conventional exercise machines do not have counterbalance elements that are capable of being secured to the barbell.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for a compact exercise apparatus that employs guide rods for a barbell wherein the apparatus of the present invention includes a peg assembly and a counterweight element.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is the object of the present invention to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements wherein the present invention includes a frame having a plurality of vertical and horizontal support members.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the vertical support members of the frame include a plurality of apertures.

[0007] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements that further includes a peg assembly that is configured to be releasably coupled to the apertures in the vertical support members of the frame.

[0008] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the peg assembly of the present invention include a U-shaped support member.

[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements wherein the peg assembly includes a plurality of peg members operably coupled to an exterior surface of the U-shaped support member.

[0010] An additional object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment configured to facilitate resistance based exercises for a user thereof wherein the peg assembly includes a lower support member integrally formed with the U-shaped support member.

[0011] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus that is constructed to allow a user to spot themselves during exercise movements that further includes a counterweight assembly operably coupled to the barbell of the present invention.

[0012] To the accomplishment of the above and related objects the present invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact that the drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being a part of the present invention, limited only by the scope of the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A more complete understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the following Detailed Description and appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a detailed view of a guide rod mounting bracket; and

[0015] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the peg assembly of the present invention; and

[0016] FIG. 3 is a detailed view of vertical support members of the frame having the peg assembly operably coupled thereto; and

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Referring now to the drawings submitted herewith, wherein various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale and wherein through the views and figures like elements are referenced with identical reference numerals, there is illustrated an exercise apparatus 100 constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0019] An embodiment of the present invention is discussed herein with reference to the figures submitted herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes and that it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that alternative embodiments are plausible. By way of example but not by way of limitation, those having skill in the art in light of the present teachings of the present invention will recognize a plurality of alternate and suitable approaches dependent upon the needs of the particular application to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond that of the particular implementation choices in the embodiment described herein. Various modifications and embodiments are within the scope of the present invention.

[0020] It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, materials, uses and applications described herein, as these may vary. Furthermore, it is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0021] References “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “exemplary embodiments”, and the like may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure or characteristic.

[0022] Referring in particular to the Figures submitted herewith, the exercise apparatus 100 includes a frame 10. Frame 10 is manufactured from durable rigid material such as but not limited to metal. The frame 10 includes a plurality of vertical support members 12 and horizontal support members 14 that are coupled to define an exercise area 2. The vertical support members 12 and horizontal support members 14 in a preferred embodiment are manufactured from square metal tubing and are operably coupled utilizing suitable mechanical elements and techniques such as but not limited to bracket members 16 illustrated herein. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the frame 10 could be provided in alternate sizes as well as be configured in an alternate shape than the embodiment illustrated herein. The vertical support members 12 have formed therein a multitude of apertures 13 arranged in a linear pattern along the vertical support members 12. The apertures 13 provide a technique to releasably coupled the peg assembly 30 to the vertical support members 12 as is further discussed herein.

[0023] The frame 10 further includes barbell guide rod members 20. The barbell guide rod members 20 are operably coupled intermediate the lower horizontal support members 8 and the upper horizontal support members 9 and are positioned in a vertical orientation. The barbell guide rod members 20 are operably coupled in position with couplers 23 and bracket members 29 and is configured to have the barbell 21 movably coupled thereto. The barbell 21 is positioned horizontally across the barbell guide rod members 20 and is slidably coupled thereto utilizing keepers 24. The ends of the barbell 21 are sized so as to accommodate conventional weight plates to be placed thereon. The barbell 21 has operably coupled thereto hook members 27,28. Hook members 27, 28 are movable so as to be operably coupled to the peg members 31 of the peg assembly 30 as is further discussed herein.

[0024] The exercise apparatus 100 includes peg assembly 30. Two peg assemblies 30 are utilized during use of the exercise apparatus 100 wherein the peg assemblies 30 are releasably secured to the vertical support members 5,6. The peg assembly 30 includes a U-shaped support member 32 having a first portion 33, second portion 34 and third portion 35 integrally formed. The peg members 31 extend outward from the first portion 31 and are configured to have the hook members 27,28 operably coupled thereto. The peg members 31 are oriented in a linear vertical manner and it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that a portion of the peg members 30 extends across the void 37 of the U-shaped support member 32 and is operably coupled with the third portion 35. While four peg members 31 are illustrated herein, it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the peg assembly 30 could have more or less than four peg members 30.

[0025] The peg assembly 30 further includes lower support member 40. Lower support member 40 is integrally formed with the first portion 33 of the U-shaped support member 32. Lower support member 40 includes a first segment 41 and a second segment 42 wherein the second segment 42 is perpendicular to the first segment 41 and parallel with the second portion 34 of the U-shaped support member 32. A void 44 is intermediate the second segment 42 and second portion 34 wherein the void 44 is operable to receive a vertical support member 12 therein ensuing the peg assembly 30 being operably coupled to a vertical support member 12. The peg assembly 30 further includes a rod member 45. Rod member 45 is secured to the outer surface of the second portion 34 extending outward therefrom being perpendicular thereto. The rod member 45 is operable to be journaled in an aperture 13 of the vertical support members 12 so as to facilitate releasable coupling of the peg assembly 30 to the vertical support member 12. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the peg assembly 30 could be releasably coupled to the vertical support members 12 at any location therealong.

[0026] The exercise apparatus 100 further includes a counterweight assembly 50 operably coupled to barbell 21. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the exercise apparatus 100 could be provided with or without the counterweight assembly 50. The counterweight assembly 50 can be employed by a user to provide assistance in moving weight during an exercise that is operably disposed on the barbell 21. The counterweight assembly 50 includes a weight stack 51 operably coupled to weight support rod member 52. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the weight stack 51 could be comprised of an alternate quantity of weights depending upon the desired objective of the user of the exercise apparatus 100. A cable 53 is operably coupled to the weight stack 51 being journaled through the weight support rod member 52. Cable 53 is routed and operably coupled to pullies 54 wherein the distal end of the cable 53 is operably coupled to the keepers 24. The weight stack 51 acts as a counterbalance for the barbell 21 and any weight operably coupled thereto so as to decrease the work requirement to move the barbell 21 and weight operably coupled thereto.

[0027] In the preceding detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, and certain variants thereof, have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is to be understood that other suitable embodiments may be utilized and that logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. The description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The preceding detailed description is, therefore, not intended to be limited to the specific forms set forth herein, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as can be reasonably included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Referring now to the drawings submitted herewith, wherein various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale and wherein through the views and figures like elements are referenced with identical reference numerals, there is illustrated an exercise apparatus 100 constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0019]An embodiment of the present invention is discussed herein with reference to the figures submitted herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes and that it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that alternative embodiments are plausible. By way of example but not by way of limitation, those having skill in the art in light of the present teachings of the present invention will recognize a plurality of alternate and suitable approaches dependent upon the needs of the particular application to implement the function...

Claims

1. An exercise apparatus comprising:a frame, said frame having a plurality of vertical support members and a plurality of horizontal support members, said vertical support members and horizontal support members operably coupled to define an exercise area, said plurality of vertical support members being perpendicular with said horizontal support members, said plurality of vertical support members having a multitude of apertures formed therein, said multitude of apertures arranged in a linear manner from a bottom end to a top end of said plurality of vertical support members,a first barbell guide rod member and a second barbell guide rod member, said first barbell guide rod member and said second barbell guide rod member being on opposing sides of the exercise area, said first barbell guide rod member and said second barbell guide rod member extending upward from a lower horizontal support member to an upper horizontal support member;a barbell, said barbell being operably coupled to said first barbell guide rod member and said second barbell guide rod member, said barbell having a first hook member and a second hook member operably coupled thereto;a peg assembly, said peg assembly being configured to operably coupled to two of said plurality of vertical support members, said peg assembly having a U-shaped support member, said U-shaped support member having a first portion, a second portion and a third portion being integrally formed, said U-shaped support member having a void configured to facilitate receipt of a section of a vertical support member therein, said peg assembly having a plurality of peg members, said plurality of peg members being operably coupled across said first portion and said second portion of the U-shaped support member, said peg members further having a portion extending outward from an outer surface of said first portion of the U-shaped support member, said peg members being oriented in vertical and linear manner on the U-shaped support member; andwherein said peg members being configured to operably engage the first hook member and second hook member coupled to said barbell.

2. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said peg assembly further includes a lower support member, said lower support member having a first segment and a second segment, said lower support member being integrally formed with said U-shaped support member.

3. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 2, wherein said first segment of said lower support member is contiguous with said first portion of said U-shaped support member.

4. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 3, wherein said second segment of said lower support member is perpendicular with said first segment of said lower support member.

5. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 4, wherein said second segment of said lower support member is parallel with said second section of said U-shaped support member having a void therebetween, said void being operable to have a section of a vertical support member placed therein ensuing mounting of the peg assembly.

6. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 5, wherein said peg assembly further includes a rod member, said rod member being operably coupled to said second portion of said U-shaped support member, said rod member extending outward from said second portion being perpendicular thereto, said rod member being above said second segment of the lower support member, said rod member extending towards said second segment of the lower support member.

7. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 6, and further including a counterweight assembly, said counterweight assembly being operably coupled to said barbell.

8. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 7, wherein said counterweight assembly includes a weight support rod, said weight support rod operable to receive a weight stack thereon.

9. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 8, wherein said weight support rod has a cable operably coupled thereto, said cable having a first end connected to said weight support rod and a second end connected to said barbell.

10. The exercise apparatus as recited in claim 9, wherein said cable is operably coupled to a first pulley and a second pulley mounted to the frame.

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