Weight holding member for a weight lifting rack, and a weight lifting rack

Abstract

A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices includes a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

Description

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0001] The present invention relates to weight lifting racks.

[0002] Adjustable dumbbells such as are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,529,415, 8,784,283, 8,932,188, and 11,602,661, which are incorporated by reference, are popular because, among other things, they save space and avoid the need to have a large set of dumbbells of different weights to perform different dumbbell exercises. There are, however, various weight lifting exercises that cannot be performed with weight devices such as dumbbells, barbells, and kettlebells alone, such as rowing exercises and lat (latissimus dorsi) pull down exercises. In well-equipped gyms, these exercises are often performed on specially adapted rowing or lat pull down racks or machines that take up a substantial amount of space, are each individually quite heavy, and can be quite expensive.

[0003] It is desirable to provide weight lifting equipment that would permit dumbbells and other weight devices to be used to perform exercises that are traditionally performed using specially adapted racks or machines.

[0004] It is also desirable to provide such weight lifting equipment that would facilitate easy adjustment of adjustable dumbbells and other adjustable weight devices.

[0005] It is also desirable to provide weight lifting equipment that would permit the use of a single rack to perform a variety of different exercises that are traditionally performed using specially adapted racks or machines.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprises a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, a weight holding member for a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprises a platform, and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the platform, the arm being adapted to be attached to one of the one or more weight devices when in the extended position.

[0008] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a weight lifting rack comprises a frame, a plurality of pulleys attached to the frame, a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, and a plurality of cables, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The features and advantages of the present invention are well understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings in which like numerals indicate similar elements and in which:

[0010] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a weight lifting rack according to an aspect of the present invention, including weight devices on the weight lifting rack;

[0011] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the weight lifting rack of FIG. 1A without weight devices on the weight lifting rack;

[0012] FIG. 2A is a side view of a weight holding member according to an aspect of the present invention, wherein the weight holding member is in a retracted position;

[0013] FIG. 2B is a side view of the weight holding member of FIG. 2A, wherein the weight holding member has moved from the retracted position to an extended position but is not connected to the weight devices;

[0014] FIG. 2C is a side view of the weight holding member of FIG. 2A, wherein the weight holding member has moved from the retracted position to the extended position and is connected to the weight devices;

[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a weight holding member according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective, partially cross-sectional view of a weight holding member and part of a frame according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 5 schematically shows a cable and pulley arrangement for a weight lifting rack according to an aspect of the present invention; and

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a weight lifting rack including modular exercise devices according to an aspect of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] A weight lifting rack 21 for use with one or more weight devices 23 is shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The rack comprises a frame 25 and a weight holding member 27, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame.

[0020] One or more weight devices 23 are supportable on a horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. The horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 may be in the form of a plurality of horizontally extending portions. The invention is presently believed to be particularly useful in connection with weight devices 23 in the form of dumbbells and, more particularly, adjustable dumbbells of the type wherein weights can be attached to or detached from a handle by turning a portion of the handle such as are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,529,415, 8,784,283, 8,932,188, and 11,602,661, all of which are incorporated by reference, however, weight devices of other types that are capable of being lifted, such as non-adjustable dumbbells, other types of adjustable dumbbells, barbells, kettle balls, and other forms of weights may also be used with the invention. Ordinarily, the weight devices 23 will be devices that can be provided and used separately from the rack 21, with the rack extending the utility of such weight devices to exercises that cannot generally be performed with the weight devices alone. The present invention is illustrated herein in connection with its use with a pair of dumbbells, however, it will be appreciated that the invention can be adapted for use with a single dumbbell and with other forms of weight devices.

[0021] The weight holding member 27 is automatically connectable to the weight device 23 so that the weight device is vertically movable relative to the frame 25 with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices. The weight holding member 27 is automatically connected to the weight device 23 and lifts the weight device from the horizontally extending portion 29 on which they are supported after the weight holding member is moved vertically above a vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the weight device upon being moved vertically to the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member. The weight devices 23 can include a base 23′ or other structure to retain the weight devices in position when they are supported on the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. The base 23′ can remain on the horizontally extending portion 29 when the weight device 23 is moved vertically upward by the weight holding member 27.

[0022] The weight holding member 27 comprises an arm 31 that, as seen in FIG. 2A, is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member and, as seen in FIG. 2B, is moved from the retracted position and, as seen in FIG. 2C, is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member. The weight device 23 is shown in cross-section through the center of the handle 35 in FIGS. 2A-2C. The arm 31 is automatically connected to the weight device 23 when moved to the extended position. As seen in FIGS. 2A-2C, a connecting end 33 of the arm 31 can be shaped to receive a portion of the weight device 23, such as by being C-shaped to receive a portion of a handle 35 of the weight device. In a reverse manner, the arm 31 is automatically disconnected from the weight device 23 when moved to the retracted position. Automatic disconnection of the arm 31 from the weight device 23 facilitates adjustment of the weight device, such as by adding more weight to a dumbbell or barbell, or turning the handle of an adjustable dumbbell.

[0023] The weight holding member 27 ordinarily comprises a pair of arms. As seen in FIGS. 2A-2C, the arms 31 of the pair of arms can be arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions (FIG. 2A) when the weight holding member 27 is in the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member and to move from the retracted positions to extended positions (FIG. 2B) and finally to extended and connected (to the weight devices 23) positions (FIG. 2C) upon moving the weight holding member above the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member. Each arm 31 is automatically connected to a respective weight device 23 when moved to the extended position. In reverse manner, when the weight holding member 27 is above the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member, each arm 31 moves to its retracted position upon moving the weight holding member to the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member, and each arm is automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0024] The weight holding member 27 can comprise a platform 37 and one or more arms 31 pivotably linked to the platform and movable between the retracted position and the extended position where each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device. Each arm 31 can be pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage 39 that is ordinarily pivotably attached to the platform 37. A spring 45 can be attached to the linkage 39 and arranged so as to pivot the linkage and urge the arm to the extended position.

[0025] Ordinarily, the weight holding member 27 comprises a pair of arms 31 pivotably linked to the platform 37, the arms being movable in opposite directions between the retracted position and the extended position wherein each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device. Each arm 31 of the pair of arms can be pivotably linked to the platform 37 via a respective linkage 39, and the linkages can be pivotably attached to the platform via pivot bearings 40.

[0026] As seen, for example, in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3, and 4, each linkage 39 can be L-shaped and have a first leg 41 and a first end 41′ and a second leg 43 and a second end 43′, and each arm 31 can be attached at or near the first end of its respective linkage, such as by being pivotably attached. The linkage 39 will ordinarily be attached to the platform 37 via the pivot bearings 40 at the intersection of the first leg 41 and the second leg 43. A spring 45 can connect the second legs 43 of each linkage 39 to each other, usually proximate midpoints of the second legs. As seen in FIGS. 2B-2C, 3, and 4, the spring 45 can be relaxed when the arms 31 are moved to the extended position, i.e., the spring will ordinarily urge the arms to the extended position.

[0027] The spring 45 will ordinarily be in tension when the arms 31 are moved to the retracted position as seen in FIG. 2A. The second ends 43′ of each linkage can be rounded or provided with rollers 47 that can contact surfaces 49 on the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. As the platform 37 is lowered, the rounded ends or roller 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 39 can contact the contact surfaces 49 and slide or roll along the contact surfaces as the linkages pivot about their pivot bearings 40, and the weight of the platform 37, the linkages, and the arms 31 can be sufficient to put the spring 45 in tension so that the arms automatically move to the retracted position.

[0028] The platform 37 includes at least one guide 51 (usually two guides) with an opening 53 (FIG. 4) for each arm 31, the guide being disposed on the platform so that each arm is slidable relative to the platform in a respective opening. The openings 53 can be formed so that the arms 31 are kept at a constant angle relative to the platform 37. Each arm 31 can have, in addition to a connecting end 33 that is connectable to and disconnectable from a weight device 23, a linkage end 55 that is pivotably linked to the first end 41′ of the linkage 39. The linkage end 55 of the arm 31 can be attached to the first end 41′ of the linkage 39 so that a pin 57 on the linkage end of the arm that extends perpendicular to the arm is slidable in a longitudinal slot 59 in the first leg 41 near the first end 41′ of the linkage. Thus, when the weight holding member 27 reaches a position in which the rounded ends or rollers 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 49 is at or vertically above the position in which the rounded ends or rollers contact the contact surfaces 49, the pin 57 on the linkage end 55 of the arm 31 is at a bottom of the slot 59 as seen in FIGS. 2B and 2C. When the weight holding member 27 goes vertically below the position in which the rounded ends or rollers 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 49 contact the contact surfaces 49 and the linkages 49 pivot about the pivot bearing 40 to place the spring 45 in tension, the pin 57 on the linkage end 55 of the arm 31 is moved from the bottom of the slot 59 and ultimately stops at the top of the slot when the weight holding members is at its vertically lowermost position, as seen in FIG. 2A.

[0029] As seen, for example, in FIG. 3, each guide 51 can have multiple openings 53 (two shown) for a corresponding number of arms 31. Each arm 31 can have an individual connecting end 33 for receiving a portion of a handle 35 of a weight device 23 or, as seen in FIG. 3, a single connecting end may be connected across multiple ones of the arms.

[0030] One or more, ordinarily at least two, vertically extending openings 65 are provided in the platform 37, usually through each guide 51. A vertically extending portion 67 of the frame 25 is adapted to extend through each vertically extending opening 65. In this way, the platform 37 can be constrained to vertical movement relative to the frame 25. The vertically extending portions 67 of the frame 25 may also extend through sleeves 65′ attached to the platform 37.

[0031] FIGS. 2A-2C show the weight holding member 27 being moved from a state in which it is disconnected from a pair of weight devices 23 that rest on a horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 (FIG. 2A), toward (or from) a state in which the weight holding member is connected to a pair of weight devices that still rest on the horizontally extending portion of the frame (FIG. 2B), and in a state in which the weight holding member is connected to and is able to raise the weight devices from the horizontally extending portion of the frame (FIG. 2C). When the weight holding device 27 moves from disconnected from to connected to the weight devices the weight holding member ordinarily starts at its vertically lowermost position as seen in FIG. 2A. The vertically lowest position of the weight holding device 27 can be any desired position but is usually established as a position where the platform 37 abuts or some other component of the weight holding device abuts some horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 which may be (but need not be) the same horizontally extending portion or part of the same horizontally extending portion on which the weight devices 23 rest. As seen in FIG. 2A, the platform 37 can abut a pair of horizontally extending supporting surfaces 69 when the weight holding device 27 is in its lowermost vertical position, and the second legs 43 of the linkage 39 can lie flat against the contact surfaces 49 and the spring 45 can be in maximum tension. The connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 are disposed vertically below and horizontally inward from the handles 35 of the weight devices 23, i.e., in a direction away from the direction that they must move to connect to the weight devices. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 are at the tops of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0032] As seen in FIG. 2B, as the weight holding member 27 is moved vertically upward from its lowermost position, tension 45 in the spring 45 is relaxed and the spring urges the second ends 43′ of the second legs 43 inward so that the linkages 39 pivot about the pivot bearing 40 and the connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 move horizontally outward toward the handles 35 of the weight devices 23 while still being disposed vertically below the handles, eventually extending to a position as shown in FIG. 2B where the connecting ends of the arms are directly vertically beneath the handles of the weight devices. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 move toward the bottom of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0033] As seen in FIG. 2C, as the weight holding member 27 continues to be moved vertically upward, tension 45 in the spring 45 is at a most relaxed condition and the spring urges the second ends 43′ of the second legs 43 to a most inward position so that the linkages 39 are pivoted about the pivot bearing 40 so that the connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 continue to be disposed directly vertically below the handles 35 of the weight devices 23, and the connecting ends of the arms contact the handles and lift the weight devices from the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 upon which they had been supported. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 are disposed at the bottom of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0034] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 4, the rack 21 can include a cable 71A having a connection portion 73A for connection to the weight holding member 27, and a pulley 75A attached to the frame, the cable extending around the pulley. The weight holding member 27 is adapted to be moved vertically upward relative to the frame 21 when tension is applied to the cable 71A. Ordinarily, the rack 21 will include a plurality of cables 71A, 71B, 71C and the frame 25 can comprise a plurality of pulleys, e.g., 75A, 75B, 75C, each cable having a connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member. While FIGS. 1 and 4 show three cables 71A, 71B, 71C, it will be appreciated that there can be fewer or more cables as desired. Each cable 71A, 71B, 71C ordinarily extends around at least one pulley with some cables extending around plural pulleys.

[0035] As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the platform 37 of the weight holding member 27 can include a plurality of vertically extending holes 77A, 77B, 77C, and, as seen in FIG. 4, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables 71A, 71B, 71C can extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes. The connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C of each cable 71A, 71B, 71C is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes 77A, 77B, 77C through which the cable extends. As seen in FIG. 4, a connection portion 73A is connected to the weight holding member 27 by being raised vertically, such as when tension is applied to the cable 71A, to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent its respective one 77A of the plurality of holes and cannot pass through the hole.

[0036] Connection portions 73B, 73C that are disconnected from the weight holding member 27 can be connectable to the frame 25 so that the risk of tangling of the unused cables upon movement of the weight holding member is reduced. Each connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C may, for example, be made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a connection portion 25′ of the frame 25 beneath the weight holding member, usually vertically beneath the platform 37. The connection portion 25′ of the frame 25 is ordinarily but not necessarily disposed vertically above a base of the frame.

[0037] The plurality of pulleys 75A, 75B, 75C can include one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys. By using the mechanical advantage provided by one or more movable pulleys it is possible to expand the range of weight that can be lifted using the rack 21 so that, instead of the force applied to a given cable being equal to the force applied by the weight of the weight devices 23, the force applied can be reduced by one half or more depending upon the particular type of pulley configuration that is used. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the cable 71C extends around the fixed pulley 75C and is attached to a movable pulley 75C′. An additional cable 71C′ extends around the movable pulley 75C′, as well as around additional pulleys 75C″, with opposite ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′of the cable passing through the additional pulleys in the fixed pulley 79. As seen in FIG. 5, because the movable pulley 75C′ is movable, if only one end 71Ca′ of the additional cable 71C′ is pulled and the other end 71Cb′ is fixed, to move the weight holding member a distance d, the end 71Ca′ must move a distance 2d. On the other hand, if both ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′ are pulled at the same time, to move the weight holding member 27 a distance d, the ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′ must only move a distance d.

[0038] As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the rack 21 can also include an adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79 comprising at least one and usually two additional pulleys 75C″. As shown in phantom in FIG. 1B, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79 is adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame 21, such as by being secured in place by pins or bolts (not shown) extending through holes (not shown) in the adjustable fixed pulley assembly and the frame or by any other suitable means. In this way, the position of the additional cable 71C′ relative to the frame can be adjusted for use with different exercise modules or for users of different heights. The additional cable 71C′ extends around the at least one additional pulley 75C″ of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79.

[0039] As seen in FIG. 6, a variety of modular exercise devices can be used with or attached to the rack 21. For example, a bench 81 that can be used for a seated rowing exercise with the cable 71A or a seated lat (latissimus dorsi) pull down exercise with the cable 71B can be attached to the frame, either permanently, such as by welding, or in a removable fashion, such as by bolts or other fasteners. Additional cables and frame structure can be provided for use with any number of additional modular exercise devices 83 and 85 are shown for only purposes of illustration of some of the many other ways that such devices might be attached to the frame. It will be appreciated that the frame, cables, and pulleys can be adapted in shape and configuration for any desired number of such modular exercise devices.

[0040] Example 1. A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0041] Example 2. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0042] Example 3. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 2, wherein the weight holding member comprises an arm that is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, the arm being automatically connected to the one or more weight devices when moved to the extended position.

[0043] Example 4. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to extended positions upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically connected to a respective weight device when moved to the extended position.

[0044] Example 5. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 4, wherein the arms of the pair of arms are arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0045] Example 6. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm of the pair of arms being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0046] Example 7. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the arm is adapted to be attached to the one or more weight devices.

[0047] Example 8. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0048] Example 9. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0049] Example 10. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0050] Example 11. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the weight holding member comprises the platform and the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0051] Example 12. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 11, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0052] Example 13. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 12, wherein each linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0053] Example 14. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 12, wherein each linkage has a first leg and a first end and a second leg and a second end, and each arm is attached to the first end of its respective linkage.

[0054] Example 15. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 14, wherein a spring connects the second legs of each linkage to each other.

[0055] Example 16. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 15, wherein the spring is relaxed when the arms are moved to the extended position and is in tension when the arms are moved to the retracted position.

[0056] Example 17. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising one or more weight devices supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

[0057] Example 18. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 17, wherein at least one of the one or more weight devices is a dumbbell.

[0058] Example 19. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

[0059] Example 20. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame and the weight holding member is disconnected from the dumbbell.

[0060] Example 21. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a vertically extending opening through which a vertically extending portion of the frame is adapted to extend.

[0061] Example 22. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising a cable having a connection portion for connection to the weight holding member, and a pulley attached to the frame, the cable extending around the pulley, wherein the weight holding member is adapted to be moved vertically upward relative to the frame when tension is applied to the cable.

[0062] Example 23. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising a plurality of cables, and the frame comprising a plurality of pulleys, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.

[0063] Example 24. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform including a plurality of vertically extending holes, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0064] Example 25. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 24, wherein the connection portion of each cable is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes through which the cable extends and the connection portion is connected to the weight holding member by being raised vertically to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent the respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0065] Example 26. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 25, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0066] Example 27. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0067] Example 28. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 27, wherein the portion of the frame to which the connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable is a connection portion of the frame vertically beneath the platform.

[0068] Example 29. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 28, wherein the connection portion of the frame is disposed vertically above a base of the frame.

[0069] Example 30. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein the plurality of pulleys includes one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys, at least one of the plurality of cables being attached to a movable pulley of the plurality of pulleys.

[0070] Example 31. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 30, further comprising an additional cable, the additional cable extending around the movable pulley.

[0071] Example 32. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 31, comprising an adjustable fixed pulley assembly comprising at least one pulley, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly being adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame, the additional cable extending around the at least one pulley of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly.

[0072] Example 33. A weight holding member for a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a platform, and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the platform, the arm being adapted to be attached to one of the one or more weight devices when in the extended position.

[0073] Example 34. The weight holding member as set forth in example 33, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0074] Example 35. The weight holding member as set forth in example 34, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0075] Example 36. The weight holding member as set forth in example 34, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0076] Example 37. The weight holding member as set forth in example 33, wherein the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0077] Example 38. The weight holding member as set forth in example 37, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0078] Example 39. The weight holding member as set forth in example 38, wherein each linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0079] Example 40. The weight holding member as set forth in example 38, wherein each linkage has a first leg and a first end and a second leg and a second end, and each arm is attached to the first end of its respective linkage.

[0080] Example 41. The weight holding member as set forth in example 40, wherein a spring connects the second legs of each linkage to each other.

[0081] Example 42. The weight holding member as set forth in example 41, wherein the spring is relaxed when the arms are moved to the extended position and is in tension when the arms are moved to the retracted position.

[0082] Example 43. A weight lifting rack comprising a frame, a plurality of pulleys attached to the frame, a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, and a plurality of cables, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.

[0083] Example 44. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform including a plurality of vertically extending holes, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0084] Example 45. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 44, wherein the connection portion of each cable is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes through which the cable extends and the connection portion is connected to the weight holding member by being raised vertically to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent the respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0085] Example 46. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 45, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0086] Example 47. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0087] Example 48. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 47, wherein the portion of the frame to which the connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable is a connection portion of the frame vertically beneath the platform.

[0088] Example 49. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 48, wherein the connection portion of the frame is disposed vertically above the base.

[0089] Example 50. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the at least one vertically extending portion extends through an opening in the weight holding member so that vertical movement of the weight holding member is limited to vertical movement along the at least one vertically extending portion.

[0090] Example 51. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the frame comprises a horizontally extending portion, one or more weight devices being supportable on the horizontally extending portion,

[0091] Example 52. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 51, wherein the weight holding member is connectable to and disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0092] Example 53. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 52, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0093] Example 54. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 53, wherein the weight holding member comprises an arm that is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, the arm being automatically connected to the one or more weight devices when moved to the extended position.

[0094] Example 55. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to extended positions upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically connected to a respective weight device when moved to the extended position.

[0095] Example 56. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 55, wherein the pair of arms is arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0096] Example 57. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0097] Example 58. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the plurality of pulleys includes one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys, at least one of the plurality of cables being attached to a movable pulley of the plurality of pulleys.

[0098] Example 59. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 58, further comprising an additional cable, the additional cable extending around the movable pulley.

[0099] Example 60. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 58, comprising an adjustable fixed pulley assembly comprising at least one pulley, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly being adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame, the additional cable extending around the at least one pulley of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly.

[0100] In the present application, the use of terms such as “including” is open-ended and is intended to have the same meaning as terms such as “comprising” and not preclude the presence of other structure, material, or acts. Similarly, though the use of terms such as “can” or “may” is intended to be open-ended and to reflect that structure, material, or acts are not necessary, the failure to use such terms is not intended to reflect that structure, material, or acts are essential. To the extent that structure, material, or acts are presently considered to be essential, they are identified as such.

[0101] While this invention has been illustrated and described in accordance with a preferred embodiment, it is recognized that variations and changes may be made therein without departing from the invention as set forth in the claims.

Examples

example 1

[0040] A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0041]Example 2. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0042]Example 3. The weight...

example 5

[0044] The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 4, wherein the arms of the pair of arms are arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0045]Example 6. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm of the pair of arms being automatically disconn...

example 8

[0047] The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0048]Example 9. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0049]Example 10. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0050]Example 11. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the weight holding member comprises the platform and the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0051]Example 12. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 11, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0052]Example 13. Th...

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0001] The present invention relates to weight lifting racks.

[0002] Adjustable dumbbells such as are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,529,415, 8,784,283, 8,932,188, and 11,602,661, which are incorporated by reference, are popular because, among other things, they save space and avoid the need to have a large set of dumbbells of different weights to perform different dumbbell exercises. There are, however, various weight lifting exercises that cannot be performed with weight devices such as dumbbells, barbells, and kettlebells alone, such as rowing exercises and lat (latissimus dorsi) pull down exercises. In well-equipped gyms, these exercises are often performed on specially adapted rowing or lat pull down racks or machines that take up a substantial amount of space, are each individually quite heavy, and can be quite expensive.

[0003] It is desirable to provide weight lifting equipment that would permit dumbbells and other weight devices to be used to perform exercises that are traditionally performed using specially adapted racks or machines.

[0004] It is also desirable to provide such weight lifting equipment that would facilitate easy adjustment of adjustable dumbbells and other adjustable weight devices.

[0005] It is also desirable to provide weight lifting equipment that would permit the use of a single rack to perform a variety of different exercises that are traditionally performed using specially adapted racks or machines.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprises a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, a weight holding member for a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprises a platform, and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the platform, the arm being adapted to be attached to one of the one or more weight devices when in the extended position.

[0008] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a weight lifting rack comprises a frame, a plurality of pulleys attached to the frame, a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, and a plurality of cables, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The features and advantages of the present invention are well understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings in which like numerals indicate similar elements and in which:

[0010] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a weight lifting rack according to an aspect of the present invention, including weight devices on the weight lifting rack;

[0011] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the weight lifting rack of FIG. 1A without weight devices on the weight lifting rack;

[0012] FIG. 2A is a side view of a weight holding member according to an aspect of the present invention, wherein the weight holding member is in a retracted position;

[0013] FIG. 2B is a side view of the weight holding member of FIG. 2A, wherein the weight holding member has moved from the retracted position to an extended position but is not connected to the weight devices;

[0014] FIG. 2C is a side view of the weight holding member of FIG. 2A, wherein the weight holding member has moved from the retracted position to the extended position and is connected to the weight devices;

[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a weight holding member according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective, partially cross-sectional view of a weight holding member and part of a frame according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 5 schematically shows a cable and pulley arrangement for a weight lifting rack according to an aspect of the present invention; and

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a weight lifting rack including modular exercise devices according to an aspect of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] A weight lifting rack 21 for use with one or more weight devices 23 is shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The rack comprises a frame 25 and a weight holding member 27, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame.

[0020] One or more weight devices 23 are supportable on a horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. The horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 may be in the form of a plurality of horizontally extending portions. The invention is presently believed to be particularly useful in connection with weight devices 23 in the form of dumbbells and, more particularly, adjustable dumbbells of the type wherein weights can be attached to or detached from a handle by turning a portion of the handle such as are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,529,415, 8,784,283, 8,932,188, and 11,602,661, all of which are incorporated by reference, however, weight devices of other types that are capable of being lifted, such as non-adjustable dumbbells, other types of adjustable dumbbells, barbells, kettle balls, and other forms of weights may also be used with the invention. Ordinarily, the weight devices 23 will be devices that can be provided and used separately from the rack 21, with the rack extending the utility of such weight devices to exercises that cannot generally be performed with the weight devices alone. The present invention is illustrated herein in connection with its use with a pair of dumbbells, however, it will be appreciated that the invention can be adapted for use with a single dumbbell and with other forms of weight devices.

[0021] The weight holding member 27 is automatically connectable to the weight device 23 so that the weight device is vertically movable relative to the frame 25 with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices. The weight holding member 27 is automatically connected to the weight device 23 and lifts the weight device from the horizontally extending portion 29 on which they are supported after the weight holding member is moved vertically above a vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the weight device upon being moved vertically to the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member. The weight devices 23 can include a base 23′ or other structure to retain the weight devices in position when they are supported on the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. The base 23′ can remain on the horizontally extending portion 29 when the weight device 23 is moved vertically upward by the weight holding member 27.

[0022] The weight holding member 27 comprises an arm 31 that, as seen in FIG. 2A, is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member and, as seen in FIG. 2B, is moved from the retracted position and, as seen in FIG. 2C, is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member. The weight device 23 is shown in cross-section through the center of the handle 35 in FIGS. 2A-2C. The arm 31 is automatically connected to the weight device 23 when moved to the extended position. As seen in FIGS. 2A-2C, a connecting end 33 of the arm 31 can be shaped to receive a portion of the weight device 23, such as by being C-shaped to receive a portion of a handle 35 of the weight device. In a reverse manner, the arm 31 is automatically disconnected from the weight device 23 when moved to the retracted position. Automatic disconnection of the arm 31 from the weight device 23 facilitates adjustment of the weight device, such as by adding more weight to a dumbbell or barbell, or turning the handle of an adjustable dumbbell.

[0023] The weight holding member 27 ordinarily comprises a pair of arms. As seen in FIGS. 2A-2C, the arms 31 of the pair of arms can be arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions (FIG. 2A) when the weight holding member 27 is in the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member and to move from the retracted positions to extended positions (FIG. 2B) and finally to extended and connected (to the weight devices 23) positions (FIG. 2C) upon moving the weight holding member above the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member. Each arm 31 is automatically connected to a respective weight device 23 when moved to the extended position. In reverse manner, when the weight holding member 27 is above the vertically lowermost position 29 of the weight holding member, each arm 31 moves to its retracted position upon moving the weight holding member to the vertically lowermost position of the weight holding member, and each arm is automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0024] The weight holding member 27 can comprise a platform 37 and one or more arms 31 pivotably linked to the platform and movable between the retracted position and the extended position where each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device. Each arm 31 can be pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage 39 that is ordinarily pivotably attached to the platform 37. A spring 45 can be attached to the linkage 39 and arranged so as to pivot the linkage and urge the arm to the extended position.

[0025] Ordinarily, the weight holding member 27 comprises a pair of arms 31 pivotably linked to the platform 37, the arms being movable in opposite directions between the retracted position and the extended position wherein each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device. Each arm 31 of the pair of arms can be pivotably linked to the platform 37 via a respective linkage 39, and the linkages can be pivotably attached to the platform via pivot bearings 40.

[0026] As seen, for example, in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3, and 4, each linkage 39 can be L-shaped and have a first leg 41 and a first end 41′ and a second leg 43 and a second end 43′, and each arm 31 can be attached at or near the first end of its respective linkage, such as by being pivotably attached. The linkage 39 will ordinarily be attached to the platform 37 via the pivot bearings 40 at the intersection of the first leg 41 and the second leg 43. A spring 45 can connect the second legs 43 of each linkage 39 to each other, usually proximate midpoints of the second legs. As seen in FIGS. 2B-2C, 3, and 4, the spring 45 can be relaxed when the arms 31 are moved to the extended position, i.e., the spring will ordinarily urge the arms to the extended position.

[0027] The spring 45 will ordinarily be in tension when the arms 31 are moved to the retracted position as seen in FIG. 2A. The second ends 43′ of each linkage can be rounded or provided with rollers 47 that can contact surfaces 49 on the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25. As the platform 37 is lowered, the rounded ends or roller 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 39 can contact the contact surfaces 49 and slide or roll along the contact surfaces as the linkages pivot about their pivot bearings 40, and the weight of the platform 37, the linkages, and the arms 31 can be sufficient to put the spring 45 in tension so that the arms automatically move to the retracted position.

[0028] The platform 37 includes at least one guide 51 (usually two guides) with an opening 53 (FIG. 4) for each arm 31, the guide being disposed on the platform so that each arm is slidable relative to the platform in a respective opening. The openings 53 can be formed so that the arms 31 are kept at a constant angle relative to the platform 37. Each arm 31 can have, in addition to a connecting end 33 that is connectable to and disconnectable from a weight device 23, a linkage end 55 that is pivotably linked to the first end 41′ of the linkage 39. The linkage end 55 of the arm 31 can be attached to the first end 41′ of the linkage 39 so that a pin 57 on the linkage end of the arm that extends perpendicular to the arm is slidable in a longitudinal slot 59 in the first leg 41 near the first end 41′ of the linkage. Thus, when the weight holding member 27 reaches a position in which the rounded ends or rollers 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 49 is at or vertically above the position in which the rounded ends or rollers contact the contact surfaces 49, the pin 57 on the linkage end 55 of the arm 31 is at a bottom of the slot 59 as seen in FIGS. 2B and 2C. When the weight holding member 27 goes vertically below the position in which the rounded ends or rollers 47 on the second ends 43′ of the linkages 49 contact the contact surfaces 49 and the linkages 49 pivot about the pivot bearing 40 to place the spring 45 in tension, the pin 57 on the linkage end 55 of the arm 31 is moved from the bottom of the slot 59 and ultimately stops at the top of the slot when the weight holding members is at its vertically lowermost position, as seen in FIG. 2A.

[0029] As seen, for example, in FIG. 3, each guide 51 can have multiple openings 53 (two shown) for a corresponding number of arms 31. Each arm 31 can have an individual connecting end 33 for receiving a portion of a handle 35 of a weight device 23 or, as seen in FIG. 3, a single connecting end may be connected across multiple ones of the arms.

[0030] One or more, ordinarily at least two, vertically extending openings 65 are provided in the platform 37, usually through each guide 51. A vertically extending portion 67 of the frame 25 is adapted to extend through each vertically extending opening 65. In this way, the platform 37 can be constrained to vertical movement relative to the frame 25. The vertically extending portions 67 of the frame 25 may also extend through sleeves 65′ attached to the platform 37.

[0031] FIGS. 2A-2C show the weight holding member 27 being moved from a state in which it is disconnected from a pair of weight devices 23 that rest on a horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 (FIG. 2A), toward (or from) a state in which the weight holding member is connected to a pair of weight devices that still rest on the horizontally extending portion of the frame (FIG. 2B), and in a state in which the weight holding member is connected to and is able to raise the weight devices from the horizontally extending portion of the frame (FIG. 2C). When the weight holding device 27 moves from disconnected from to connected to the weight devices the weight holding member ordinarily starts at its vertically lowermost position as seen in FIG. 2A. The vertically lowest position of the weight holding device 27 can be any desired position but is usually established as a position where the platform 37 abuts or some other component of the weight holding device abuts some horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 which may be (but need not be) the same horizontally extending portion or part of the same horizontally extending portion on which the weight devices 23 rest. As seen in FIG. 2A, the platform 37 can abut a pair of horizontally extending supporting surfaces 69 when the weight holding device 27 is in its lowermost vertical position, and the second legs 43 of the linkage 39 can lie flat against the contact surfaces 49 and the spring 45 can be in maximum tension. The connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 are disposed vertically below and horizontally inward from the handles 35 of the weight devices 23, i.e., in a direction away from the direction that they must move to connect to the weight devices. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 are at the tops of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0032] As seen in FIG. 2B, as the weight holding member 27 is moved vertically upward from its lowermost position, tension 45 in the spring 45 is relaxed and the spring urges the second ends 43′ of the second legs 43 inward so that the linkages 39 pivot about the pivot bearing 40 and the connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 move horizontally outward toward the handles 35 of the weight devices 23 while still being disposed vertically below the handles, eventually extending to a position as shown in FIG. 2B where the connecting ends of the arms are directly vertically beneath the handles of the weight devices. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 move toward the bottom of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0033] As seen in FIG. 2C, as the weight holding member 27 continues to be moved vertically upward, tension 45 in the spring 45 is at a most relaxed condition and the spring urges the second ends 43′ of the second legs 43 to a most inward position so that the linkages 39 are pivoted about the pivot bearing 40 so that the connecting ends 33 of the arms 31 continue to be disposed directly vertically below the handles 35 of the weight devices 23, and the connecting ends of the arms contact the handles and lift the weight devices from the horizontally extending portion 29 of the frame 25 upon which they had been supported. The pins 57 on the linkage ends 55 of the arms 31 are disposed at the bottom of the slots 59 in the first legs 41.

[0034] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 4, the rack 21 can include a cable 71A having a connection portion 73A for connection to the weight holding member 27, and a pulley 75A attached to the frame, the cable extending around the pulley. The weight holding member 27 is adapted to be moved vertically upward relative to the frame 21 when tension is applied to the cable 71A. Ordinarily, the rack 21 will include a plurality of cables 71A, 71B, 71C and the frame 25 can comprise a plurality of pulleys, e.g., 75A, 75B, 75C, each cable having a connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member. While FIGS. 1 and 4 show three cables 71A, 71B, 71C, it will be appreciated that there can be fewer or more cables as desired. Each cable 71A, 71B, 71C ordinarily extends around at least one pulley with some cables extending around plural pulleys.

[0035] As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the platform 37 of the weight holding member 27 can include a plurality of vertically extending holes 77A, 77B, 77C, and, as seen in FIG. 4, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables 71A, 71B, 71C can extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes. The connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C of each cable 71A, 71B, 71C is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes 77A, 77B, 77C through which the cable extends. As seen in FIG. 4, a connection portion 73A is connected to the weight holding member 27 by being raised vertically, such as when tension is applied to the cable 71A, to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent its respective one 77A of the plurality of holes and cannot pass through the hole.

[0036] Connection portions 73B, 73C that are disconnected from the weight holding member 27 can be connectable to the frame 25 so that the risk of tangling of the unused cables upon movement of the weight holding member is reduced. Each connection portion 73A, 73B, 73C may, for example, be made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a connection portion 25′ of the frame 25 beneath the weight holding member, usually vertically beneath the platform 37. The connection portion 25′ of the frame 25 is ordinarily but not necessarily disposed vertically above a base of the frame.

[0037] The plurality of pulleys 75A, 75B, 75C can include one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys. By using the mechanical advantage provided by one or more movable pulleys it is possible to expand the range of weight that can be lifted using the rack 21 so that, instead of the force applied to a given cable being equal to the force applied by the weight of the weight devices 23, the force applied can be reduced by one half or more depending upon the particular type of pulley configuration that is used. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the cable 71C extends around the fixed pulley 75C and is attached to a movable pulley 75C′. An additional cable 71C′ extends around the movable pulley 75C′, as well as around additional pulleys 75C″, with opposite ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′of the cable passing through the additional pulleys in the fixed pulley 79. As seen in FIG. 5, because the movable pulley 75C′ is movable, if only one end 71Ca′ of the additional cable 71C′ is pulled and the other end 71Cb′ is fixed, to move the weight holding member a distance d, the end 71Ca′ must move a distance 2d. On the other hand, if both ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′ are pulled at the same time, to move the weight holding member 27 a distance d, the ends 71Ca′ and 71Cb′ must only move a distance d.

[0038] As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the rack 21 can also include an adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79 comprising at least one and usually two additional pulleys 75C″. As shown in phantom in FIG. 1B, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79 is adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame 21, such as by being secured in place by pins or bolts (not shown) extending through holes (not shown) in the adjustable fixed pulley assembly and the frame or by any other suitable means. In this way, the position of the additional cable 71C′ relative to the frame can be adjusted for use with different exercise modules or for users of different heights. The additional cable 71C′ extends around the at least one additional pulley 75C″ of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly 79.

[0039] As seen in FIG. 6, a variety of modular exercise devices can be used with or attached to the rack 21. For example, a bench 81 that can be used for a seated rowing exercise with the cable 71A or a seated lat (latissimus dorsi) pull down exercise with the cable 71B can be attached to the frame, either permanently, such as by welding, or in a removable fashion, such as by bolts or other fasteners. Additional cables and frame structure can be provided for use with any number of additional modular exercise devices 83 and 85 are shown for only purposes of illustration of some of the many other ways that such devices might be attached to the frame. It will be appreciated that the frame, cables, and pulleys can be adapted in shape and configuration for any desired number of such modular exercise devices.

[0040] Example 1. A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0041] Example 2. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0042] Example 3. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 2, wherein the weight holding member comprises an arm that is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, the arm being automatically connected to the one or more weight devices when moved to the extended position.

[0043] Example 4. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to extended positions upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically connected to a respective weight device when moved to the extended position.

[0044] Example 5. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 4, wherein the arms of the pair of arms are arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0045] Example 6. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm of the pair of arms being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0046] Example 7. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the arm is adapted to be attached to the one or more weight devices.

[0047] Example 8. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0048] Example 9. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0049] Example 10. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0050] Example 11. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the weight holding member comprises the platform and the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0051] Example 12. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 11, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0052] Example 13. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 12, wherein each linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0053] Example 14. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 12, wherein each linkage has a first leg and a first end and a second leg and a second end, and each arm is attached to the first end of its respective linkage.

[0054] Example 15. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 14, wherein a spring connects the second legs of each linkage to each other.

[0055] Example 16. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 15, wherein the spring is relaxed when the arms are moved to the extended position and is in tension when the arms are moved to the retracted position.

[0056] Example 17. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising one or more weight devices supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

[0057] Example 18. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 17, wherein at least one of the one or more weight devices is a dumbbell.

[0058] Example 19. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

[0059] Example 20. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame and the weight holding member is disconnected from the dumbbell.

[0060] Example 21. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a vertically extending opening through which a vertically extending portion of the frame is adapted to extend.

[0061] Example 22. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising a cable having a connection portion for connection to the weight holding member, and a pulley attached to the frame, the cable extending around the pulley, wherein the weight holding member is adapted to be moved vertically upward relative to the frame when tension is applied to the cable.

[0062] Example 23. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, comprising a plurality of cables, and the frame comprising a plurality of pulleys, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.

[0063] Example 24. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform including a plurality of vertically extending holes, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0064] Example 25. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 24, wherein the connection portion of each cable is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes through which the cable extends and the connection portion is connected to the weight holding member by being raised vertically to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent the respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0065] Example 26. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 25, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0066] Example 27. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0067] Example 28. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 27, wherein the portion of the frame to which the connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable is a connection portion of the frame vertically beneath the platform.

[0068] Example 29. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 28, wherein the connection portion of the frame is disposed vertically above a base of the frame.

[0069] Example 30. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 23, wherein the plurality of pulleys includes one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys, at least one of the plurality of cables being attached to a movable pulley of the plurality of pulleys.

[0070] Example 31. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 30, further comprising an additional cable, the additional cable extending around the movable pulley.

[0071] Example 32. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 31, comprising an adjustable fixed pulley assembly comprising at least one pulley, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly being adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame, the additional cable extending around the at least one pulley of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly.

[0072] Example 33. A weight holding member for a weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a platform, and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the platform, the arm being adapted to be attached to one of the one or more weight devices when in the extended position.

[0073] Example 34. The weight holding member as set forth in example 33, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0074] Example 35. The weight holding member as set forth in example 34, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0075] Example 36. The weight holding member as set forth in example 34, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0076] Example 37. The weight holding member as set forth in example 33, wherein the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0077] Example 38. The weight holding member as set forth in example 37, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0078] Example 39. The weight holding member as set forth in example 38, wherein each linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0079] Example 40. The weight holding member as set forth in example 38, wherein each linkage has a first leg and a first end and a second leg and a second end, and each arm is attached to the first end of its respective linkage.

[0080] Example 41. The weight holding member as set forth in example 40, wherein a spring connects the second legs of each linkage to each other.

[0081] Example 42. The weight holding member as set forth in example 41, wherein the spring is relaxed when the arms are moved to the extended position and is in tension when the arms are moved to the retracted position.

[0082] Example 43. A weight lifting rack comprising a frame, a plurality of pulleys attached to the frame, a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, and a plurality of cables, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.

[0083] Example 44. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform including a plurality of vertically extending holes, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0084] Example 45. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 44, wherein the connection portion of each cable is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes through which the cable extends and the connection portion is connected to the weight holding member by being raised vertically to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent the respective one of the plurality of holes.

[0085] Example 46. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 45, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0086] Example 47. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

[0087] Example 48. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 47, wherein the portion of the frame to which the connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable is a connection portion of the frame vertically beneath the platform.

[0088] Example 49. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 48, wherein the connection portion of the frame is disposed vertically above the base.

[0089] Example 50. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the at least one vertically extending portion extends through an opening in the weight holding member so that vertical movement of the weight holding member is limited to vertical movement along the at least one vertically extending portion.

[0090] Example 51. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 43, wherein the frame comprises a horizontally extending portion, one or more weight devices being supportable on the horizontally extending portion,

[0091] Example 52. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 51, wherein the weight holding member is connectable to and disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0092] Example 53. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 52, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0093] Example 54. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 53, wherein the weight holding member comprises an arm that is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, the arm being automatically connected to the one or more weight devices when moved to the extended position.

[0094] Example 55. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to extended positions upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically connected to a respective weight device when moved to the extended position.

[0095] Example 56. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 55, wherein the pair of arms is arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0096] Example 57. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0097] Example 58. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 54, wherein the plurality of pulleys includes one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys, at least one of the plurality of cables being attached to a movable pulley of the plurality of pulleys.

[0098] Example 59. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 58, further comprising an additional cable, the additional cable extending around the movable pulley.

[0099] Example 60. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 58, comprising an adjustable fixed pulley assembly comprising at least one pulley, the adjustable fixed pulley assembly being adapted to be fixed in a plurality of positions relative to the frame, the additional cable extending around the at least one pulley of the adjustable fixed pulley assembly.

[0100] In the present application, the use of terms such as “including” is open-ended and is intended to have the same meaning as terms such as “comprising” and not preclude the presence of other structure, material, or acts. Similarly, though the use of terms such as “can” or “may” is intended to be open-ended and to reflect that structure, material, or acts are not necessary, the failure to use such terms is not intended to reflect that structure, material, or acts are essential. To the extent that structure, material, or acts are presently considered to be essential, they are identified as such.

[0101] While this invention has been illustrated and described in accordance with a preferred embodiment, it is recognized that variations and changes may be made therein without departing from the invention as set forth in the claims.

Examples

example 1

[0040] A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices comprising a frame, and a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame, wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

[0041]Example 2. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 1, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

[0042]Example 3. The weight...

example 5

[0044] The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 4, wherein the arms of the pair of arms are arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

[0045]Example 6. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm of the pair of arms being automatically disconn...

example 8

[0047] The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

[0048]Example 9. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

[0049]Example 10. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 8, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

[0050]Example 11. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 7, wherein the weight holding member comprises the platform and the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

[0051]Example 12. The weight lifting rack as set forth in example 11, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

[0052]Example 13. Th...

Claims

1. A weight lifting rack for use with one or more weight devices, comprising:a frame;a weight holding member, the weight holding member being movable vertically relative to the frame;wherein one or more weight devices are supportable on a horizontally extending portion of the frame, the weight holding member being automatically connectable to the one or more weight devices so that the one or more weight devices are movable vertically relative to the frame with the weight holding member and automatically disconnectable from the one or more weight devices.

2. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, wherein the weight holding member is automatically connected to the one or more weight devices after being moved vertically above a lowermost position of the weight holding member and is automatically disconnected from the one or more weight devices upon being moved vertically to the lowermost position of the weight holding member.

3. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 2, wherein the weight holding member comprises an arm that is in a retracted position when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and is moved to an extended position upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, the arm being automatically connected to the one or more weight devices when moved to the extended position.

4. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from retracted positions when the weight holding member is in the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to extended positions upon moving the weight holding member above the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically connected to a respective weight device when moved to the extended position.

5. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 4, wherein the arms of the pair of arms are arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm being automatically disconnected from its respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

6. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 3, wherein the weight holding member comprises a pair of arms, arms of the pair of arms being arranged to move in opposite directions from extended positions when the weight holding member is above the lowermost position of the weight holding member and to move to retracted positions upon moving the weight holding member to the lowermost position of the weight holding member, each arm of the pair of arms being automatically disconnected from a respective weight device when moved to the retracted position.

7. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform and an arm pivotably linked to the platform and movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the arm is adapted to be attached to the one or more weight devices.

8. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 7, wherein the arm is pivotably linked to the platform via a linkage.

9. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 8, wherein the linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

10. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 8, comprising a spring attached to the linkage and arranged to pivot the linkage to urge the arm to the extended position.

11. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 7, wherein the weight holding member comprises the platform and the arm comprises a pair of arms pivotably linked to the platform, the arms being movable in opposite directions between a retracted position and an extended position in which each arm is adapted to be attached to a respective weight device.

12. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 11, wherein each arm of the pair of arms is pivotably linked to the platform via a respective linkage.

13. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 12, wherein each linkage is pivotably attached to the platform.

14. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 12, wherein each linkage has a first leg and a first end and a second leg and a second end, and each arm is attached to the first end of its respective linkage.

15. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 14, wherein a spring connects the second legs of each linkage to each other.

16. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 15, wherein the spring is relaxed when the arms are moved to the extended position and is in tension when the arms are moved to the retracted position.

17. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, comprising one or more weight devices supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

18. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 17, wherein at least one of the one or more weight devices is a dumbbell.

19. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame.

20. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 18, wherein the dumbbell is adjustable to different weights when supported on the horizontally extending portion of the frame and the weight holding member is disconnected from the dumbbell.

21. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, wherein the weight holding member comprises a vertically extending opening through which a vertically extending portion of the frame is adapted to extend.

22. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, comprising a cable having a connection portion for connection to the weight holding member, and a pulley attached to the frame, the cable extending around the pulley, wherein the weight holding member is adapted to be moved vertically upward relative to the frame when tension is applied to the cable.

23. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 1, comprising a plurality of cables, and the frame comprising a plurality of pulleys, each cable having a connection portion that is connectable to and disconnectable from the weight holding member, each cable extending around one or more of the pulleys.

24. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 23, wherein the weight holding member comprises a platform including a plurality of vertically extending holes, a vertical portion of each of the plurality of cables extending through a respective one of the plurality of holes.

25. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 24, wherein the connection portion of each cable is larger than the respective one of the plurality of holes through which the cable extends and the connection portion is connected to the weight holding member by being raised vertically to a point where the connection portion is disposed adjacent the respective one of the plurality of holes.

26. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 25, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

27. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 23, wherein connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable to the frame, wherein, for each cable, the connection portion is made of a magnetic material that is adapted to be attracted to a portion of the frame beneath the weight holding member.

28. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 27, wherein the portion of the frame to which the connection portions that are disconnected from the weight holding member are connectable is a connection portion of the frame vertically beneath the platform.

29. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 28, wherein the connection portion of the frame is disposed vertically above a base of the frame.

30. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 23, wherein the plurality of pulleys includes one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys, at least one of the plurality of cables being attached to a movable pulley of the plurality of pulleys.

31. The weight lifting rack as set forth in claim 30, further comprising an additional cable, the additional cable extending around the movable pulley.

Images