Rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus and methods of using same

Abstract

A rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame with a left side and a right side; four arms rotatably mounted on the frame, wherein each of the arms is rotatable individually; and, a handle for each of the four arms

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63 / 722,721 filed Nov. 20, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] A rotation-based exercise apparatus offered by Hammer Strength and called the Plate-Loaded Combo Twist provides strength building exercise for rotational movements. This product is available at www.lifefitness.com / en-us / catalog / strength-training / plate-loaded / plate-loaded-combo-twist. While it provides some exercise benefits, it suffers from certain disadvantages, including the requiring the user to dismount from the apparatus and switch weight plate locations in order to switch the push / pull directions of rotational exercise.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame with a left side and a right side; four arms rotatably mounted on the frame, wherein each of the arms is rotatable individually; and, a handle for each of the four arms.

[0005] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one weight mount prong disposed on each of the arms, wherein the weight mount prong is sized and shaped to mount a weight plate or bumper thereon.

[0006] In an embodiment of the invention, two of the arms are mounted on the left side of the apparatus and two of the arms are mounted on the right side of the apparatus opposite the arms on the left side.

[0007] In an embodiment of the invention, the arms on each side of the apparatus rotate counter to each other.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one storage prong attached to a non-moving part of the apparatus.

[0009] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a back post.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one additional weight storage prong.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the back post is extendable.

[0012] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the handles is moveably attached to its respective arm.

[0013] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one of the handles is attached to its respective arm by a hinge, the hinge providing reversible movement to the handle from inside the frame to outside the frame.

[0014] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a crossbar extending between a left side and a right side of the frame.

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the frame and the arms is constructed of industry-standard weight rack components.

[0016] In an embodiment of the invention, the arms are L-shaped or V-shaped.

[0017] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0018] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example, are not necessarily to scale and are for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0019] In the drawings:

[0020] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0021] FIG. 2 is a front view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0022] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 4 is a rear view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 5 is a left side view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 6 is a top view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and,

[0026] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.

[0028] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0029] Generally, embodiments of the exercise apparatuses described herein are primarily utilized for building strength in and through rotational movements of the human body. A feature of these embodiments is that push and / or pull exercises for both sides of the body (i.e. right and left) can be performed without the user stepping outside the framework of the apparatus and / or having to switch mounted weights from one position on the apparatus to another in order to switch which rotational direction is being exercised and / or to switch the sides of push and / or pull exercise.

[0030] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. “Rotation”, in an embodiment of the invention, means the motion imparted on a user's body while pushing on one side (e.g. with the left arm) and pulling on the other side (e.g. with the right arm) or vice versa. This rotation motion is facilitated by four L-shaped or V-shaped arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv which are mounted on a frame 102 of the exercise apparatus 100 using a connector plate 112. Each of the arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv is attached to the frame 102 such that they are each rotatable individually. For example, the arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv rotate about axes 106i, 106ii, 106iii, 106iv, respectively.

[0031] In an embodiment of the invention, a user interacts with these arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv by grasping the handles 108i, 108ii, 108iii, 108iv of the arms. During exercise in order to achieve push motion on one side and pull motion on the other side of the user's body, the user will grab diagonally opposite handles, for example handles 108i and 108iv for pushing (108i) and pulling (108iv). Motion 502iv of arm 104iv and motion 502i of arm 104i (not shown, blocked by arm 104iii) by the user interacting with handles 108iv and 108i to rotate the arms about axes 106iv and 106i, respectively, is shown and described in more detail with respect to FIG. 5. It should be understood that each of arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv is independently rotatable from the others.

[0032] Resistance to exercise is adjustably selected by placing weights on weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv, respectively. Optionally, more than weight prong is provided to each arm, for example to alter a resistance / loading profile of the weight during exercise. In some embodiments of the invention, industry-standard weight plates, such as the weight plates or “bumpers” available from Sorinex® at www.sorinex.com / collections / bumper-plates, are used with the weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv. Weights not being used are optionally stored on storage prongs 114 attached to the frame 102 or other non-moving part of the apparatus 100.

[0033] In some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the handles 108i, 108ii, 108iii, 108iv is moveably attached to its respective arm, for example being hinged to allow for rotation 116 of the handle about an axis 118 of the hinge. It should be understood that in some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the handles can optionally be moved from inside the frame of the apparatus 100 to outside the frame 102 of the apparatus 100, to give the user more room for movement during exercise as the user stands inside the frame 100.

[0034] Optionally, a crossbar 120 connects two sides of the frame 102 together for added structural stability and / or to provide a foot rest for the user.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a front view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. A back post 202 is optionally provided to the apparatus 100, for example, to provide additional weight storage prongs 204. Optionally, the back post 202 is adjustable in height, for example by using a pin (not shown) insertable through corresponding pin holes in the telescoping parts of the back post 202. In some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the frame 102, the arms and the back post 202 are manufactured from industry-standard weight rack components.

[0036] FIG. 2 is in a configuration where handles 108i, 108iv are deployed inside the frame 102 for use and handles 108ii, 108iii are rotated outside the frame 102 so that they provide more space inside the frame 102 for the user. In this configuration, the user would be pulling with the left hand, grasped around handle 108vi, and would be pushing with the right hand, grasped around handle 108i. To switch rotation according to this view, the configuration of handles 108i, 108iv and handles 108ii, 108iii would be reversed such that the user would then be pushing with handle 108iii and pulling with handle 108ii, without having to leave the internal space of the apparatus 100.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a left side view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100 and wherein the right side view would be a mirror image, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As described above, a user exercises by combining a pushing exercise motion using a first arm with a pulling exercise motion using a second arm, in some embodiments of the invention. This movement is facilitated by using the handles / arms which are diagonal to one another in the apparatus 100, for example, using handles 108i, 108iv which control movement of arms 104i, 104iv, respectively. The user interacting with handles 108iv (pulling) and 108i (pushing) to rotate 502i, 502iv the arms about axes 106i (not shown) and 106iv, respectively. It should be understood that to switch the push / pull direction of torso rotation by the user, the other diagonally opposing handles 108ii, 108iii would be grasped by the user, where handle 108ii would be pulled and handle 108iii would be pushed, in an embodiment of the invention. Optionally, at least one weight is placed on at least one of the weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv during exercise. It should be noted that in order to switch the push / pull direction of torso rotation using apparatus 100, the user does not have to dismount from inside the frame and adjust where the weight plates are mounted.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a top view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0041] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

[0042] The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

[0043] The term “consisting essentially of” means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0044] The term “plurality” means “two or more”.

[0045] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0046] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0047] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0048] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0049] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0050] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0027]The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.

[0028]Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0029]Generally, embodiments of the exercise apparatuses described herein are primarily utilized for building strength in and through rotational movements of the human body. A feature of these embodiments is that push and / or pull exercises for both sides of the body (i.e. right and left) can be performed without the user stepping outside the framework of the apparatus and / or having to switch mounted weight...

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63 / 722,721 filed Nov. 20, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] A rotation-based exercise apparatus offered by Hammer Strength and called the Plate-Loaded Combo Twist provides strength building exercise for rotational movements. This product is available at www.lifefitness.com / en-us / catalog / strength-training / plate-loaded / plate-loaded-combo-twist. While it provides some exercise benefits, it suffers from certain disadvantages, including the requiring the user to dismount from the apparatus and switch weight plate locations in order to switch the push / pull directions of rotational exercise.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame with a left side and a right side; four arms rotatably mounted on the frame, wherein each of the arms is rotatable individually; and, a handle for each of the four arms.

[0005] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one weight mount prong disposed on each of the arms, wherein the weight mount prong is sized and shaped to mount a weight plate or bumper thereon.

[0006] In an embodiment of the invention, two of the arms are mounted on the left side of the apparatus and two of the arms are mounted on the right side of the apparatus opposite the arms on the left side.

[0007] In an embodiment of the invention, the arms on each side of the apparatus rotate counter to each other.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one storage prong attached to a non-moving part of the apparatus.

[0009] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a back post.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises at least one additional weight storage prong.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the back post is extendable.

[0012] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the handles is moveably attached to its respective arm.

[0013] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one of the handles is attached to its respective arm by a hinge, the hinge providing reversible movement to the handle from inside the frame to outside the frame.

[0014] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a crossbar extending between a left side and a right side of the frame.

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the frame and the arms is constructed of industry-standard weight rack components.

[0016] In an embodiment of the invention, the arms are L-shaped or V-shaped.

[0017] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0018] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example, are not necessarily to scale and are for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0019] In the drawings:

[0020] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0021] FIG. 2 is a front view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0022] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 4 is a rear view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 5 is a left side view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 6 is a top view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and,

[0026] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.

[0028] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0029] Generally, embodiments of the exercise apparatuses described herein are primarily utilized for building strength in and through rotational movements of the human body. A feature of these embodiments is that push and / or pull exercises for both sides of the body (i.e. right and left) can be performed without the user stepping outside the framework of the apparatus and / or having to switch mounted weights from one position on the apparatus to another in order to switch which rotational direction is being exercised and / or to switch the sides of push and / or pull exercise.

[0030] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. “Rotation”, in an embodiment of the invention, means the motion imparted on a user's body while pushing on one side (e.g. with the left arm) and pulling on the other side (e.g. with the right arm) or vice versa. This rotation motion is facilitated by four L-shaped or V-shaped arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv which are mounted on a frame 102 of the exercise apparatus 100 using a connector plate 112. Each of the arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv is attached to the frame 102 such that they are each rotatable individually. For example, the arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv rotate about axes 106i, 106ii, 106iii, 106iv, respectively.

[0031] In an embodiment of the invention, a user interacts with these arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv by grasping the handles 108i, 108ii, 108iii, 108iv of the arms. During exercise in order to achieve push motion on one side and pull motion on the other side of the user's body, the user will grab diagonally opposite handles, for example handles 108i and 108iv for pushing (108i) and pulling (108iv). Motion 502iv of arm 104iv and motion 502i of arm 104i (not shown, blocked by arm 104iii) by the user interacting with handles 108iv and 108i to rotate the arms about axes 106iv and 106i, respectively, is shown and described in more detail with respect to FIG. 5. It should be understood that each of arms 104i, 104ii, 104iii, 104iv is independently rotatable from the others.

[0032] Resistance to exercise is adjustably selected by placing weights on weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv, respectively. Optionally, more than weight prong is provided to each arm, for example to alter a resistance / loading profile of the weight during exercise. In some embodiments of the invention, industry-standard weight plates, such as the weight plates or “bumpers” available from Sorinex® at www.sorinex.com / collections / bumper-plates, are used with the weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv. Weights not being used are optionally stored on storage prongs 114 attached to the frame 102 or other non-moving part of the apparatus 100.

[0033] In some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the handles 108i, 108ii, 108iii, 108iv is moveably attached to its respective arm, for example being hinged to allow for rotation 116 of the handle about an axis 118 of the hinge. It should be understood that in some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the handles can optionally be moved from inside the frame of the apparatus 100 to outside the frame 102 of the apparatus 100, to give the user more room for movement during exercise as the user stands inside the frame 100.

[0034] Optionally, a crossbar 120 connects two sides of the frame 102 together for added structural stability and / or to provide a foot rest for the user.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a front view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. A back post 202 is optionally provided to the apparatus 100, for example, to provide additional weight storage prongs 204. Optionally, the back post 202 is adjustable in height, for example by using a pin (not shown) insertable through corresponding pin holes in the telescoping parts of the back post 202. In some embodiments of the invention, at least one of the frame 102, the arms and the back post 202 are manufactured from industry-standard weight rack components.

[0036] FIG. 2 is in a configuration where handles 108i, 108iv are deployed inside the frame 102 for use and handles 108ii, 108iii are rotated outside the frame 102 so that they provide more space inside the frame 102 for the user. In this configuration, the user would be pulling with the left hand, grasped around handle 108vi, and would be pushing with the right hand, grasped around handle 108i. To switch rotation according to this view, the configuration of handles 108i, 108iv and handles 108ii, 108iii would be reversed such that the user would then be pushing with handle 108iii and pulling with handle 108ii, without having to leave the internal space of the apparatus 100.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a left side view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100 and wherein the right side view would be a mirror image, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As described above, a user exercises by combining a pushing exercise motion using a first arm with a pulling exercise motion using a second arm, in some embodiments of the invention. This movement is facilitated by using the handles / arms which are diagonal to one another in the apparatus 100, for example, using handles 108i, 108iv which control movement of arms 104i, 104iv, respectively. The user interacting with handles 108iv (pulling) and 108i (pushing) to rotate 502i, 502iv the arms about axes 106i (not shown) and 106iv, respectively. It should be understood that to switch the push / pull direction of torso rotation by the user, the other diagonally opposing handles 108ii, 108iii would be grasped by the user, where handle 108ii would be pulled and handle 108iii would be pushed, in an embodiment of the invention. Optionally, at least one weight is placed on at least one of the weight mount prongs 110i, 110ii, 110iii, 110iv during exercise. It should be noted that in order to switch the push / pull direction of torso rotation using apparatus 100, the user does not have to dismount from inside the frame and adjust where the weight plates are mounted.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a top view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0041] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

[0042] The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

[0043] The term “consisting essentially of” means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0044] The term “plurality” means “two or more”.

[0045] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0046] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0047] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0048] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0049] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0050] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0027]The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to exercise and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to rotation-based, torso strength training.

[0028]Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0029]Generally, embodiments of the exercise apparatuses described herein are primarily utilized for building strength in and through rotational movements of the human body. A feature of these embodiments is that push and / or pull exercises for both sides of the body (i.e. right and left) can be performed without the user stepping outside the framework of the apparatus and / or having to switch mounted weight...

Claims

1. A rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus, comprising:a frame with a left side and a right side;four arms rotatably mounted on the frame, wherein each of the arms is rotatable individually; and,a handle for each of the four arms.

2. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one weight mount prong disposed on each of the arms, wherein the weight mount prong is sized and shaped to mount a weight plate or bumper thereon.

3. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein two of the arms are mounted on the left side of the apparatus and two of the arms are mounted on the right side of the apparatus opposite the arms on the left side.

4. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the arms on each side of the apparatus rotate counter to each other.

5. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one storage prong attached to a non-moving part of the apparatus.

6. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a back post.

7. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising at least one additional weight storage prong.

8. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the back post is extendable.

9. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the handles is moveably attached to its respective arm.

10. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the at least one of the handles is attached to its respective arm by a hinge, the hinge providing reversible movement to the handle from inside the frame to outside the frame.

11. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a crossbar extending between a left side and a right side of the frame.

12. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the frame and the arms is constructed of industry-standard weight rack components.

13. The rotation-based torso training exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arms are L-shaped or V-shaped.

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