Torso exercise device

Abstract

An exercise device having a base member with a support bracket rotatably coupled thereto by use of stacked bearings; a stepping platform is coupled to the support bracket by spring biased fasteners. The stepping platform inhibits movement of the support bracket when a user stands on the stepping platform, actuating the spring biased fasteners. A rotatable platform is mounted to the support bracket at a distance from a vertical reference axis; the rotatable platform having a generally flat upper surface for supporting both feet of a user at an angle relative to the stepping platform. A magnetic resistance member varies the ease of rotation of the rotatable platform. Arm rests allow the user to regulate the amount of weight placed upon the rotatable platform wherein a user may perform a substantially complete revolution of their lower extremities upon moving the rotatable platform around the vertical axis.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] In accordance with 37 C.F.R. § 1.76, a claim of priority is included in an Application Data Sheet filed concurrently herewith. Accordingly, the present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 754,222 entitled “TORSO EXERCISE DEVICE” filed Feb. 5, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an abdominal exercise device, namely a device having rotatable platforms with a brake for ease of accessing and a magnetic resistance element to increase tension on one of the rotatable platforms.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Strong back and abdominal muscles, commonly referred to as core muscles, plays a critical role in maintaining spinal stability and reducing the risk of soft tissue injury and muscle strain. Absent regular and targeted exercise, core muscle strength tends to diminish with age. Individuals who participate in activities that place significant demands on the core, such as golf, particularly benefit from exercises designed to strengthen these muscles.

[0004] The core includes several muscle groups with distinct functional roles. Extensor muscles, which are attached to the posterior portion of the spine, facilitate upright posture and lifting movements. These include the erector spinae muscles of the lower back and associated gluteal muscles, which collectively support the spine. Flexor muscles, attached to the anterior portion of the spine, enable bending, forward flexion, lifting, and controlled spinal arching. Oblique muscles, positioned along the sides of the torso, assist in spinal rotation and help maintain proper posture.

[0005] The rectus abdominis, located centrally in the abdomen, together with the oblique muscles, contributes significantly to rotational movement and power generation, such as during a golf swing. These muscles also stabilize the spine, reduce the likelihood of lower-back injuries, and assist in regaining balance following rotational movements. When the abdominal muscles are weak, individuals are more susceptible to muscle strain and reduced control during athletic movements. For example, during a golf swing, particularly when using a driver, a golfer relies heavily on abdominal muscle strength to generate power, and proper conditioning of these muscles helps prevent injury.

[0006] What is lacking in the art is an exercise device that provides a revolving range of motion for core muscle strengthening, wherein a base member includes a rotatable support bracket having a stepping platform mounted thereto with a brake system to permit safe access, and a rotatable platform secured to said support bracket using magnetic resistance to the rotation of the rotatable platform providing muscle strengthening.KNOWN PRIOR ART

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 7,775,944 discloses a kinematic rotating-tilting mechanism wherein a person who is located on a resilient section can produce torque by shifting their body weight. The torque causes the resilient section to produce a combination rotating and tilting motion.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 7,955,240 discloses an exercise device having a curved track mounted on the first platform and a rolling mechanism configured to ride on the curved track. A second platform is rotatably mounted to the rolling mechanism is selectably lockable in at least one position.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 8,057,362 discloses an exercise device that provides a revolving range of motion around an axis.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 8,992,390 discloses a training machine having two pedals wherein the feet move in a curved path on a substantial horizontal plane.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 9,415,287 discloses a balance rehabilitation and training apparatus. The apparatus allows the user to perform balance enhancing exercises while holding the free-floating handle member.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 9,474,936 discloses a spinning rotation device having a rotating platform set at a nonzero angle from horizontal.

[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 10,918,903 discloses an exercise machine that includes a base with a rolling cylinder configured to roll from a front end of the base to a rear end of the base. The exercise machine includes a slant board resting on the rolling cylinder.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Disclosed is an exercise device targeting abdominal muscles formed from a base member having a center with a vertical reference axis with a support bracket coupled to the base member, the support bracket supporting a stepping platform. The stepping platform is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of the support bracket when a user stands on the stepping platform. A rotatable platform is mounted to the stepping platform at a distance apart from said vertical reference axis. The rotatable platform has a generally flat upper surface for supporting both feet of a user at an angle relative to the stepping platform.

[0015] In operation a user stands on the stepping platform, the weight of the user causes the stepping platform to engage the base frame, thereby inhibiting movement of the support bracket. The stepping platform is coupled to the support bracket with coil springs constructed and arranged to gently allow a section of the stepping platform to engage the base frame. Once the stepping platform engages the base frame the stepping platform cannot rotate and the user may then position their feet on the rotatable platform. The coil springs provide a positive force to disengage the stepping platform from braking with the support bracket wherein the stepping platform is available to rotate. The rotatable platform at the end of the support bracket allows the user to perform a substantially complete revolution of the user's lower extremities upon moving the rotatable platform around the vertical axis. Arm rests are provided which allow the user to regulate the amount of weight placed upon the rotating platform. A magnetic resistance member is adjustable to vary the ease of rotation of the stepping platform.

[0016] An objective of the invention is to provide an exercise machine that targets muscles to help stabilize the spine and lessen lower-back injuries.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to teach an exercise machine that strengthens the core muscles frequently used by golfers for proper body rotation, including the rectus abdominis and oblique muscles.

[0018] Still another objective of the invention is to teach an exercise machine that will help professional and / or amateur golfers to develop muscles for a powerful swing.

[0019] Another objective of the invention is to disclose the use of a stepping platform having coils springs to control the engagement rate with a base frame for braking action when weight is applied thereto and provide a positive force to remove the braking action when weight is removed from the stepping platform.

[0020] Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification, include exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and illustrate various objects and features thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the exercise device of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 2 is a top view thereof;

[0023] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the support bracket for the stepping platform;

[0024] FIG. 4 is an end view thereof;

[0025] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the support bracket and second set of stacked ball bearings;

[0026] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first set of stacked ball bearings;

[0027] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the stepping platform and support bracket;

[0028] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the stepping platform and support bracket;

[0029] FIG. 9 is a side view of the spring loaded stepping platform attachment;

[0030] FIG. 10 is a side view of the spring loaded stepping platform attachment activated;

[0031] FIG. 11 is a top view of the magnetic resistance components;

[0032] FIG. 12 is a bottom view thereof;

[0033] FIG. 13 is a side view of the magnetic resistance cable actuator.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0034] The foregoing summary, as well as the following description of embodiments of the application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. The drawings and embodiments described within this specification are to be understood as illustrative of structures, features and aspects of the present invention and not as limiting the scope of the invention. It should be understood that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. The methods and embodiments described within this specification are to be understood as illustrative and exemplary of the composition, structures, features and aspects of the present invention, and not as limiting the scope of the invention. Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limited. The words “right”, “left”, “top” and “bottom” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the device and designated parts thereof. The words, “anterior”, “posterior”, “superior”, “inferior”, “lateral” and related words and / or phrases designate preferred positions and orientations in the human body to which reference is made and are not meant to be limiting. The terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof and words of similar importance. In an embodiment of the invention, an exercise device comprises a base, a support bracket rotatably coupled to said base, a stepping platform secured to said rotatable support bracket, and a rotatable platform mounted to the stepping platform. The stepping platform does not rotate when an individual stands on the stepping platform, allowing safe access to the rotatable platform. Once an individual has stepped on the rotatable platform, the support bracket and stepping platform is rotatable. Such an exercise device targets various different abdominal muscle regions.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrated is the exercise device 10 of the instant invention defined by a frame 12 having a base member 14 with a support bracket 15 rotatably secured thereto. The support bracket 15 is hingedly coupled to a stepping platform 20 having a first section 18 and a second section 22. Along the end of the support bracket 15 is a rotatable platform 25 that is placed at an angle relative to the stepping platform 20. The base member 14 has a plurality of adjustable supports 24 to level the exercise device on uneven floors. The frame 12 has a lower end 28 extending from said base member 14 and an upper end 34 for support of a display screen 30. Persons of skill in the art will likewise recognize that the platforms are made of materials providing adequate strength and stability, such as, for example, carbon fiber products, plastics, metals, and graphite to name a few. The frame 12 includes a bifurcated extension support 36 with an extendable post 38 for support of an arm rest section 40. The frame components may be made of steel and welded together, or may be fastened in any manner known in the art. The extendable post may be held in place at a selectable height through use of a spring-loaded pin 39. The post section may include a number of holes 41 into which the spring loaded pin 39 positioned near a top end of the support 36 can be inserted to at least temporarily fix the height of the arm rest section 40. Although use of a spring loaded pin 39 is described herein, as desired, a loose pin or other height selection components can be used in place of the spring loaded pin. Similarly, the extension section may be slidably positioned to adjust the height and separation of the handles arm rests 42, 46 through the use of, for example, a spring-loaded pin system, a loose pin system, or other height selection system. The arm rest section 40 has a cushioned left arm support 42 with a hand grip 44 and a cushioned right arm support 46 with a hand grip 48. A push button actuator 50 placed on the end of hand grip 44 is used to operate a magnetic resistance device to increase the rotation resistance of a rotatable support bracket 15.

[0036] FIGS. 3-7 illustrate the rotatable support bracket 15 defined by an upper surface 52 and a lower surface 54 with a centrally disposed tab 56 extending along a majority of the upper surface 52. An angle support 60 is positioned along an end of the support bracket 15 for use in mounting of the rotatable platform 25. The rotatable support bracket 15 is attached to the base member 14 by use of stacked ball bearings 62 and 64 that allow spindle 66 to rotate around a vertical axis 70. The end of the spindle 66 is secured to a drive pulley 72 that works in combination with the magnetic resistance device through a drive belt 74. The angle support 60 is for receipt of the rotatable platform 25, and employs a spindle 76 rotatable through another set of stacked ball bearings 80, 82 attached to the support bracket 15. The angle support 60 is mounted at an angle relative to the surface of the stepping platform 20.

[0037] The support bracket 15 is rotatably coupled at the vertical axis point of the base frame 14 and extends outwardly therefrom an equal distance to end edges providing a horizontally level bracket for support of sections 18 and 22 of the stepping platform 20. Section 18 is formed from a rigid material having an upper surface 90, and a lower surface 92 with an outer edge 94 providing a semi circular shape and an inner edge 96 providing a mounting surface formed at a right angle thereto; the inner edge 96 having a plurality of fastener holes 98. Section 22 forms a mirror image of section 18, being formed from a rigid material having an upper surface 100, and a lower surface 102 with an outer edge 104 providing a semi circular shape and an inner edge 106 providing a mounting surface formed at a right angle thereto; the inner edge 106 having a plurality of fastener holes 108. The rotatable support bracket 15 has an upper surface 52 with fastener holes 110 for securement to the drive pulley 72.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the support bracket 15 includes mounting holes 112 which correspond with the fastener holes 98 and 108 of first section 18 and second section 22. Mounting bolt 115 has a first coil spring 116 which is inserted through holes 108, 112 and 98 with a second coil spring 118 positioned before fastener nut 120. When stepping platform sections 18 or 22 receive any weight, the coil springs 116 and 118 are depressed and the surface surfaces 90, 100 tilt, wherein lower surfaces 92, 102 engage the frame member 14 to inhibit movement of the stepping platform 20 from rotation. The stepping platform is coupled to the support bracket with coil springs constructed and arranged to gently allow a section of the stepping platform to engage the base frame. Once the stepping platform engages the base frame the stepping platform cannot rotate and the user may then position their feet on the rotatable platform. The coil springs provide a positive force to disengage the stepping platform from braking with the support bracket wherein the stepping platform is available to rotate. The stepping platform provides safe access to the rotating platform 25, wherein the user can step on surfaces 90 or 100 and position himself / herself for placing his / her feet on the rotating platform 25.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 11-13, the support bracket 15 mounted to the base frame 14 with the stacked bearings 62 and 64 has minimal resistance while rotating. To enhance the conditioning of the muscles, a drive pulley 72 attached to the support bracket 15 works in combination with a magnetic resistance plate 150 that is offset from the axis of the drive pulley 72 and attached thereto with a drive belt 74. A magnet 152 is juxtapositioned to the magnetic resistance plate 150. When the magnet 152 is positioned closer to the plate 150, it will increase the resistance to the support bracket 15. The magnet 152 is moved by a cable 154 and operated by the push button actuator 50 positioned on the end of hand grip 44. A spring 156 biases the magnet 152 in a non-resistance position. The resistance slows the rotation of ability of the support bracket 15 and the associated stepping platform 20.

[0040] The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more” or “at least one.” The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and / or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternative are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and “and / or.”

[0041] The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a method or device that “comprises,”“has,”“includes” or “contains” one or more steps or elements, possesses those one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, a step of a method or an element of a device that “comprises,”“has,”“includes” or “contains” one or more features, possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.

[0042] One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An exercise device comprising:a base member having a vertical reference axis located substantially at a center of said base member;a support bracket coupled to said base member and rotatable relative to said vertical reference axis, said support bracket including a stepping platform constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of said support bracket when a user stands on said stepping platform; anda rotatable platform mounted to said support bracket at a distance from said vertical axis, said rotatable platform having a generally flat upper surface for supporting both feet of a user at an angle relative to said support bracket;whereby the user may stand on said stepping platform to inhibit movement of said support bracket while positioning the user's feet on said rotatable platform, said rotatable platform allows the user to perform a substantially complete revolution of the user's lower extremities upon moving said rotatable platform around the axis.

2. The exercise device according to claim 1 wherein said support bracket is rotatably coupled to said base member by stacked ball bearings.

3. The exercise device according to claim 2 wherein said stepping platform includes a first section and a second section, each said section is hingedly secured to said support bracket, wherein weight upon said first or second section engages said frame to inhibit rotation of said support bracket and stepping platform.

4. The exercise device according to claim 1 wherein said second rotation platform is rotatably coupled to said support bracket by stacked ball bearings, said rotatable platform positioned at an angle relative to said stepping platform.

5. The exercise device according to claim 1 including first and second arm rests coupled to said base and centrally positioned above said stepping platform, said first and second arm rests constructed and arranged to support the weight of a user.

6. The exercise device according to claim 4 wherein said first and second arm rests each support a handle.

7. The exercise device according to claim 1 including a magnetic resistance member operatively associated with said rotatable platform, said magnetic resistance member being adjustable to vary the ease of rotation of said rotatable platform.

8. The exercise device according to claim 4 wherein said stepping platform is coupled to said support bracket which a plurality of coil springs constructed and arranged to gently allow a section of said stepping platform to engage said base frame to inhibit movement of said stepping platform.

9. An exercise device comprising:a base member having a vertical reference axis located substantially at a center of the base member;a support bracket rotatably coupled to the base member for rotation about the vertical reference axis;a stepping platform coupled to the support bracket, the stepping platform being constructed and arranged to inhibit rotation of the support bracket when a user stands on the stepping platform; anda rotatable foot platform mounted to the support bracket at a location radially spaced from the vertical reference axis, the rotatable foot platform having a generally flat upper surface configured to support both feet of a user at an angle relative to the stepping platform;whereby the user may stand on the stepping platform to inhibit rotation of the support bracket while positioning the user's feet on the rotatable foot platform, and whereby rotation of the rotatable foot platform enables the user to perform a substantially complete revolution of the user's lower extremities about the vertical reference axis.

10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the support bracket is rotatably coupled to the base member by a plurality of stacked ball bearings.

11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the stepping platform includes a first section and a second section, each of the first and second sections being hingedly secured to the support bracket, and wherein application of weight to either the first section or the second section causes engagement with the base member to inhibit rotation of the support bracket.

12. The exercise device of claim 9, wherein the rotatable foot platform is rotatably coupled to the support bracket by a plurality of stacked ball bearings, and wherein the rotatable foot platform is positioned at an angle relative to the stepping platform.

13. The exercise device of claim 9, further comprising first and second arm rests coupled to the base member and positioned above the stepping platform, the first and second arm rests being constructed and arranged to support at least a portion of a user's body weight.

14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein each of the first and second arm rests includes a handle.

15. The exercise device of claim 9, further comprising a magnetic resistance member operatively associated with the rotatable foot platform, the magnetic resistance member being adjustable to selectively vary resistance to rotation of the rotatable foot platform.

16. The exercise device of claim 12, wherein the stepping platform is coupled to the support bracket by a plurality of coil springs, the coil springs being constructed and arranged to permit limited downward movement of the stepping platform such that a portion of the stepping platform selectively engages the base member to inhibit movement.

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