Dumbbell, dumbbell assembly, and dumbbell system

Abstract

A dumbbell assembly includes an elongated body having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary in an axial direction. The dumbbell assembly has a bore at a first end of the elongated body extending in the axial direction and a weight removably received at the bore. The weight has a weighted segment having a cross-sectional boundary substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body. When received at the bore, the weighted segment is located adjacent the first end of the elongated body and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for the dumbbell assembly.

Description

DUMBBELL, DUMBBELL ASSEMBLY, AND DUMBBELL SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 658,059, filed June 10, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to a dumbbell, a dumbbell assembly, and a dumbbell system. In particular, the invention relates to a system for providing an adjustable weight dumbbell.BACKGROUND

[0003] Exercise is a popular and common way for people to maintain physical health and well-being. In particular, weights may be used to perform a large variety of exercises, and different exercises to be performed may require weights with different masses from each other.

[0004] Gym facilities may provide access to a wide variety of exercise apparatus, including free weight sets. Such free weight sets may provide weights, or pairs of weights, with different masses so as to easily transition between exercises requiring weights with different masses.

[0005] Gym facilities are not always available, and users may prefer to exercise in their own homes. However, large sets of weights are expensive and consume large amounts of space. For example, if a user seeks weights for performing three different exercises, each of which requires use of dumbbells with a different mass, the user would require six discrete weights which would typically rest on a weight rack, and not all users have a large home gym space available. Further, if a user were to travel with their weights, assuming those three different masses are 4, 6, and 8 pound weights, a user would then have to travel with 36 pounds of weights.

[0006] Further, exercise equipment for use in spaces where space is limited, or designed for travel, should be versatile, and should allow for secondary uses. Accordingly, a traditional set of weights provides limited utility, while additional accessories that allow the set of weights to be used for additional exercises take up space and add weight.

[0007] Existing weight sets using adjustable weights are typically complicated and include many moving parts. Further, such weight sets are not aesthetically pleasing, and as such, a user may not wish to leave such weight sets visible in their home gym.

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for an adjustable weight set that efficiently conserves space and can be used for travel without requiring that a user carry excessive amounts of weight. There is a further need for such a weight set that is aesthetically pleasing.

[0009] There is a further need for an adjustable weight set that provides accessories without adding significant bulk or weight to the set as a whole such that the weight set provides additional versatility.SUMMARY

[0010] In some embodiments, a dumbbell assembly is provided. The dumbbell assembly includes an elongated body having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary in an axial direction.

[0011] The dumbbell assembly has at least one bore at a first end of the elongated body extending in the axial direction and at least one weight removably received at the at least one bore.

[0012] The at least one weight has a weighted segment having a cross-sectional boundary substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body. When received at the at least one bore, the weighted segment is located adjacent the first end of the elongated body and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for the dumbbell assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the weight is selected from a plurality of weights, and a first weight of the plurality of weights has a first mass and a second weight of the plurality of weights has a second mass different from the first mass. Each of the first weight and the second weight are then configured to be removably received at the at least one bore.

[0014] In some such embodiments, the weighted segment of the weight has an axial direction along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and the first weight and the second weight have weighted segments having different lengths along the axial direction corresponding to their respective masses.

[0015] In other embodiments where the weight is selected from a plurality of weights, the first weight and the second weight are formed from different materials having different specific masses.

[0016] In other embodiments where the weight is selected from a plurality of weights, the first weight and the second weight are distinguished from each other aesthetically, such that a visual characteristic corresponds to and indicates a mass of the corresponding weight.

[0017] In some embodiments, the weight has a weight fixation segment, and the bore and the weight fixation segment are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating. In some such embodiments, the weight fixation segment is interchangeable with an accessory fixation segment, such that an accessory is fixable to the bore in place of the weight fixation segment.

[0018] In some such embodiments, the accessory fixation segment includes a cable retainer, and the cable retainer is paired with a second substantially similar accessory fixation segment for mating with a second elongated body. In some such embodiments, the assembly further includes a cable or rope extending from the cable retainer to the second accessory fixation segment, and the elongated body defines a first handle for a jump rope and the second elongated body defines a second handle for the jump rope.

[0019] In some embodiments including a cable retainer, the assembly includes an elastic cable extending from the cable retainer to the second accessory fixation segment, and the elongated body defines a first handle for a resistance trainer or resistance band.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first end of the elongated body or an end of the weighted segment adjacent the first end of the elongated body is beveled such that when assembled the dumbbell assembly has a notch distinguishing the elongated body from the weighted segment.

[0021] In some embodiments, the at least one bore is two bores, and a first bore of the two bores is at the first end of the elongated body and a second bore of the two bores is at a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, and the at least one weight is two weights removably received within the respective two bores.

[0022] In some embodiments, the elongated body has a first mass and the at least one weight has a second mass, such that a total mass of the dumbbell assembly is the sum of the first mass and the second mass. In some such embodiments, the elongated body has a first length in the axial direction and wherein the at least one weight has a second length along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and wherein the first mass and the second mass are proportional to the first length and the second length respectively.

[0023] In some embodiments, the elongated body has a surface finish different than a surface finish of the weighted segment of the at least one weight.

[0024] In some such embodiments, the weight has a substantially smooth surface and the elongated body has a textured surface.

[0025] In some embodiments having different finishes, the weight has a metallic surface and the elongated body has a rubberized surface.

[0026] Also provided is a dumbbell system having an elongated body having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary in an axial direction, at least one bore at a first end of the elongated body extending in the axial direction, and a plurality of interchangeable weights, each configured for fixation in the at least one bore.

[0027] Each of the plurality of interchangeable weights has a weighted segment having a cross-sectional boundary substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body. At least one of the interchangeable weights is removably received by the bore, such that when the weight is received at the bore, the weighted segment is located adjacent the first end of the elongated body and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for a corresponding dumbbell assembly.

[0028] In some embodiments, the plurality of interchangeable weights include a first weight having a first mass and a second weight having a second mass, and the at least one of the plurality of interchangeable weights removably received by the at least one bore is selected based on its mass. In some such embodiments, each of the interchangeable weights includes a fixation segment, and the bore and the fixation segments are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating.

[0029] In some embodiments, the weighted segment of the at least one weight has a length along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and the first weight and the second weight have weighted segments having different lengths corresponding to their respective masses.

[0030] In some embodiments, the at least one bore is two bores, and a first bore of the two bores is at the first end of the elongated body and a second of the two bores is at a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, and the plurality of interchangeable weights include pairs of weights having similar masses to each other.

[0031] In some such embodiments, the system includes a second elongated body, and the plurality of interchangeable weights comprise groups of four weights in which each weight within a first group of four is identical to each other, and wherein each weight within a second group of four is identical to each other, but wherein each weight of the first group differs in mass from each weight of the second group.

[0032] In some such embodiments, the system further includes a carrying case with designated spaces for the elongated body, the second elongated body, the first group of four weights and the second group of four weights.

[0033] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of interchangeable weights includes a fixation segment, and the bore and the fixation segments are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating. The system then further includes at least one accessory, where the accessory includes an accessory fixation segment threaded for mating with the bore of the elongated body in place of a weight of the plurality of interchangeable weights.

[0034] In some such embodiments, the at least one accessory includes a jump rope, and the accessory fixation segment is a cable retainer for fixing a first end of a cable of the jump rope to the bore of the elongated body. In some such embodiments, the system includes a second elongated body, and the jump rope includes a second cable retainer, and the second cable retainer fixes a second end of the cable of the jump rope opposite the first end to the second elongated body, such that the elongated body and the second elongated body each define a handle for the jump rope.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure l is a variety of embodiments of dumbbell assemblies in accordance with this disclosure.

[0036] Figures 2 and 3 show a dumbbell body and two weights in accordance with this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a dumbbell body in accordance with this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 5 is a section view of the dumbbell body of FIG. 4 along line 5-5 of FIG. 6.

[0039] Figure 6 is a front view of the dumbbell body of FIG. 4.

[0040] Figure 7 is a section view of the dumbbell body of FIG. 4 along line 7-7.

[0041] Figure 8 is a dumbbell weight in accordance with this disclosure.

[0042] Figure 9 is a section view of the dumbbell weight of FIG. 8 along line 9-9 of FIG. 10.

[0043] Figure 10 is a front view of the dumbbell weight of FIG. 8.

[0044] Figure 11 is a section view of the dumbbell weight of FIG. 8 along line11-11 of FIG. 9.

[0045] Figure 12 is a dumbbell assembly in accordance with this disclosure.

[0046] Figure 13 is a partially exploded view of the dumbbell assembly of FIG.12.

[0047] Figure 14 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 12 in a different configuration.

[0048] Figure 15 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 12 in the configuration ofFIG. 14 and partially exploded.

[0049] Figure 16 is the dumbbell of FIG. 12 in a different configuration.

[0050] Figure 17 is an alternative embodiment of a dumbbell assembly in accordance with this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 18 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 13 in a different configuration.

[0052] Figures 19 and 20 show a dumbbell system in a carrying case.

[0053] Figure 21 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 12 with an accessory installed in accordance with this disclosure.

[0054] Figure 22 is a section view of the dumbbell assembly as shown in FIG. 21 along line 22-22.

[0055] Figure 23 is an accessory fixation segment for mating with a bore of the dumbbell assembly.

[0056] Figure 24 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 21 paired with a second dumbbell assembly to form a jump rope.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0057] The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description ofembodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.

[0058] This disclosure describes the best mode or modes of practicing the invention as presently contemplated. This description is not intended to be understood in a limiting sense, but provides an example of the invention presented solely for illustrative purposes by reference to the accompanying drawings to advise one of ordinary skill in the art of the advantages and construction of the invention. In the various views of the drawings, like reference characters designate like or similar parts.

[0059] Figure 1 is a variety of embodiments of dumbbell assemblies 100, 1700 in accordance with this disclosure. Figures 2 and 3 show a dumbbell body 110 paired with two weights 120, 130 in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 4 is a dumbbell body 110 in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 5 is a section view of the dumbbell body110 of FIG. 4 along line 5-5. Figure 6 is a front view of the dumbbell 110 body of FIG. 4. Figure 7 is a section view of the dumbbell body 110 of FIG. 4 along line 7-7.

[0060] Figure 8 is a dumbbell weight 120 in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 9 is a section view of the dumbbell weight 120 of FIG. 8 along line 9-9 of FIG. 10. Figure 10 is a front view of the dumbbell weight 120 of FIG. 8. Figure 11 is a section view of the dumbbell weight 120 of FIG. 8 along line 11-11 of FIG. 9.

[0061] Figure 12 is a dumbbell assembly 100 in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 13 is a partially exploded view of the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 12. Figure 14 is the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 12 in a different configuration. Figure 15 is the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 12 in the configuration of FIG. 14 and partially exploded. Figure 16 is the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 12 in a different configuration.

[0062] As shown, a dumbbell assembly 100, 1700 comprises a dumbbell body, referred to herein as an elongated body 110, and at least one weight 120. The elongated body 110 has a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary 140 in an axial direction 150. The elongated body 110 has at least one bore 160 at a first end 170 extending in the axial direction 150. The weight 120 is then removably received by the bore 160.

[0063] The at least one weight 120 has a weighted segment 800, and the weighted segment is also provided with a cross-sectional boundary 900, and the cross-sectional boundary of the weighted segment 800 is substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary 140 of the elongated body 110. Accordingly, when the at least one weight 120 is received at the at least one bore 160, the weighted segment 800 is located adjacent the first end 170 of the elongated body 110 and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for the dumbbell assembly 100.

[0064] As shown, the cross-sectional profile may be substantially circular, and as such, each of the elongated body 110 and the weighted segments 800 may be substantially cylindrical. As shown, the elongated body 110 may comprise surface features, such as grooves 200, or may be imprinted or embossed with a logo design orbrand name. However, such features would not prevent the cross-sectional boundary 140 from being considered substantially circular. Accordingly, the assembled dumbbell assembly 100 has the appearance of an elongated cylinder. Further, as shown, in some embodiments, a terminating end of a weighted segment 800, defining an end of the elongated cylindrical shape, may be substantially flat. Because the overall dumbbell assembly 100 may take the form of a cylinder, a user placing it down may be concerned with it rolling away, or being difficult to grip properly when lifting. Accordingly, the dumbbell assembly 100 may rest stably on the flattened end of the elongated cylinder shape. In this way, it will not roll, and may easily be gripped and lifted without adding a step to a corresponding exercise.

[0065] It is further noted that in some embodiments, the first end 170 of the elongated body 110 and / or an end 830 of the weighted segment 800 adjacent to the first end of the elongated body may be beveled 840, such that when assembled, the dumbbell assembly has a notch corresponding to such beveling 840 distinguishing the elongated body from the weighted segment. Such surface features would similarly not interfere with the overall aesthetic of the dumbbell assembly 100.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 2-3, a variety of weights 120, 130 may be made available to users of the dumbbell assembly 100. Accordingly, the at least one weight 120 may be selected from a plurality of weights 120, 130. A first 120 of the plurality of weights 120, 130 may then have a first mass, such as one pound, and a second weight 130 of the plurality of weights may have a second mass different from the first mass, such as two pounds.

[0067] Each of the first and second weights 120, 130 are configured to be similarly removably received at the at the at least one bore 160, and as such, the weights may be used interchangeably. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 1, the same dumbbell body 110 may be assembled with either the first weight 120 or the second weight 130 to create different configurations of the dumbbell assembly for use. Further, as discussed below in reference to FIGS. 21-23, the first and second weights 120, 130 may be interchangeablewith an accessory 2100, which may then be received by the at least one bore 160 in place of a weight.

[0068] In some embodiments, as shown, the weighted segment 800 of the at least one weight 120 has an axial direction 910 along which the cross-sectional boundary 900 extends consistently. When the dumbbell assembly 100 is assembled, such an axial direction 910 may align with the axial direction 150 of the elongated body 110. The first weight 120 may then have a first length 920 along the axial direction 910 and the second weight 130 may have a second length 930 along the axial direction 910 different than the first. The different lengths may then correspond to their different masses, in that a longer length indicates a larger mass for the second weight 130. In some embodiments, such length may be proportional to the different masses. In other embodiments, such as that shown, the various bores associated with the components result in the masses not being directly proportional to length.

[0069] In some embodiments, instead of differentiating the lengths 920, 930 of the first and second weights 120, 130, the first weight and the second weight may be formed from different materials having different specific masses, thereby resulting in different total weights. Alternatively, a portion of one or both of the weight may be hollow, so as to allow filling of the hollow segment with different amounts of material, such as metal, may vary the mass of the weights.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as that shown, the first weight 120 and the second weight 130 may be distinguished from each other aesthetically, such that a visual characteristic corresponds to and indicates a mass of the corresponding weight. Accordingly, as noted above, the length 920, 930 may be an aesthetic indicator of a mass of the corresponding weight 120, 130. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 2-3, a color of the weight 120, 130 may be an aesthetic indicator. Further, as shown throughout the figures, the weights may have numerical indicators 180 indicating either an actual mass of the corresponding weight 120, 130 (i.e., in pounds) or an identifier of a particular weight in a set of weights.

[0071] As shown, in addition to a weighted segment 800, each weight 120, 130 has a fixation segment 810. The bore 160 and the fixation segment 810 may then be configured for mating. The fixation segment 810 of the first weight 120 may be identical to the fixation segment of the second weight 130, and as such, the two weights may be wholly interchangeable. Similarly, an accessory 2100 designed to be interchangeable with the weights 120, 130 may have an accessory fixation segment 2110 identical in profile to the fixation segment 810 of the weights.

[0072] In the embodiment shown, the fixation segment 810 and the bore 160 are each substantially cylindrical and are threaded 190, 820 for mating. Such threading 190, 820 may cover the entirety of the corresponding element 160, 810, or it may instead cover only a short segment of the corresponding element in order to secure the weights 120, 130 in place.

[0073] The fixation segment 810 is consistently shown incorporated into a corresponding weighted segment 800 in order to form a complete weight 120, 130. However, it is understood that the fixation segment 810 may be interchangeable such that the same such segment may be used with different weighted segments 800. In such embodiments, an internal threaded bore 850 may be provided in the weighted segments 800 so as to retain the fixation segment 810 during use.

[0074] The dumbbell assembly 100 is discussed herein as minimally comprising an elongated body 110 and at least one weight 120. However, as shown, a typical embodiment is assembled with two weights at opposite ends of the elongated body. Accordingly, the at least one bore 160 discussed above may be two bores, with a first of the two bores at the first end 170 of the elongated body 110. The second bore 160 may then be located at a second end 210 of the elongated body 110 opposite the first end 170 of the elongated body.

[0075] In such an embodiment, the at least one weight 120 may be two weights 120 removably received within the respective two bores 160. However, in such an embodiment, as shown, the two weights 120 may be identical. Accordingly, each of theplurality of interchangeable weights 120, 130 discussed above may be provided in pairs. For example, where the weights provided 120, 130 are one pound and two pounds each, the dumbbell assembly 100 may be assembled with two one pound weights 120 or two two pound weights 130. It is noted that one and two pound weights are discussed as examples, but various other weights, including heavier weights, are contemplated as well.

[0076] In a typical implementation, the elongated body 110 may have two bores 160, with one extending from each end, and each bore being individually threaded. The two bores 160 may be through holes, such that they are, in effect, a single axial bore extending through the elongated body 110. Alternatively, the two bores 160 may be blind, and may be deep enough to retain the fixation segments 810 of the corresponding two weights 120, 130.

[0077] Further, the elongated body 110 itself may have a defined first mass. For example, the elongated body 110 may weigh two pounds. Accordingly, the various configurations shown may allow for a wide range of masses for the weights. As shown in FIG. 4, the elongated body 110 may be used alone as a two pound weight. As shown in FIG. 16, the elongated body 110 may be used with a single weight of a first mass 120, thereby providing a three pound weight. As shown in FIGS. 12-13, the elongated body 110 may be paired with two weights of the first mass 120, thereby providing a four pound weight. As shown in FIGS. 14-15, the elongated body 110 may be paired with two weights of the second mass 1 0, thereby providing a six pound weight. Furthermore, although not shown, a user may pair the elongated body 110 with one weight having the first mass 120 and one weight having the second mass in order to provide a five pound weight.

[0078] In some embodiments, where the elongated body 110 comprises two discrete blind bores 160, a central portion of the elongated body 110 positioned between the two bores 160 may be provided with a discrete mass. Such a mass may be permanently fixed within the elongated body 110, such that it is applied at the time of manufacturing, and such a mass may be utilized to determine the overall weight of theelongated body 110. Accordingly, as noted above, a typical implementation of the elongated body 110 may weigh two pounds. However, a two pound plug may be inserted into or integrated into the central portion of the elongated body 110 to provide an elongated body weighing four pounds instead. The plug may be varied using different sizes, materials, or filled or hollow components to vary the weight of the elongated body 110.

[0079] Further, in some embodiments, such a plug may be removable or interchangeable by an end user, such that a kit may include multiple plugs having different weights to thereby modify the weight of the elongated body 110 and a resulting dumbbell build using the elongated body.

[0080] Additional weights may be provided as well in order to provide heavier, or more granularly weighted, dumbbells as appropriate. Further, the weights may be nestable or otherwise combined, so as to combine weights on each end of the elongated body. For example, additional fixation structures may be utilized so as to allow the weights to be added together.

[0081] Further, the overall dumbbell assembly 100 may be longer than a typical dumbbell, particularly when using heavier weights 130. Accordingly, a single dumbbell assembly 100 may be gripped by a user comfortably using two hands and thereby used for exercises not feasible with standard dumbbells.

[0082] Figure 17 is an alternative embodiment of a dumbbell assembly 1700 in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 18 is the dumbbell assembly of FIG. 17 in a different configuration.

[0083] As shown, the dumbbell assembly 1700 of FIG. 17 may be similar to the dumbbell assembly 100 discussed above. However, as shown, the elongated body 110 may have a surface finish 1710 different than a surface finish 1720 of the weighted segment 800 of the at least one weight 120. Similarly, the surface finish 1710 of the elongated body 110 may differ from the surface finish 1720 of the second weight 130. For example, as shown, the weights 120, 130 may have a substantially smooth surfacefinish 1720 which may be, for example, metallic. In contrast, the elongated body 110 may be provided with a textured and / or rubberized surface finish 1710.

[0084] As shown, the result of the distinct surface finishes 1710, 1720 may be a contrasting aesthetic between the elongated body 110 and the weights 120, 130. Further, the textured finish 1710 of the elongated body 110 may provide improved grip on the body of the dumbbell assembly.

[0085] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the entire dumbbell assembly may be provided with a textured and / or rubberized finish. Alternatively, the handle may be knurled in order to provide improved grip. Further, in addition to the surface texture, a portion of the dumbbell assembly, such as the elongated body 110, may be provided with grooves 200 which may provide an improved aesthetic and an improved grip.

[0086] Figures 19 and 20 show a dumbbell system 1900 in a carrying case 1910. As shown, the dumbbell system has an elongated body 110 having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary 140 in an axial direction 150, as discussed above. The elongated body 110 has at least one bore 160 at a first end 170 of the elongated body, with the bore extending in the axial direction. The system 1900 further includes a plurality of interchangeable weights 120, 130, each configured for fixation in the at least one bore 160.

[0087] Each of the plurality of interchangeable weights 120, 130 has a weighted segment 800 having a cross-sectional boundary 900 substantially similar to the cross- sectional boundary 140 of the elongated body 110.

[0088] When the system 1900 is used to provide a dumbbell assembly 100, at least one of the plurality of interchangeable weights 120, 130 is removably received by the at least one bore 160, such that when the at least one weight 120 is received at the at least one bore, the weighted segment 800 is located adjacent the first end 170 of the elongated body 110 and extends the cross-sectional boundary 140 of the elongated body 110 so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for the dumbbell assembly 100.

[0089] Additional details related to the first weight 120 and the second weight 130 are discussed above and apply similarly here.

[0090] Accordingly, as noted above, in some embodiments, the elongated body 110 is provided with two bores 160 at opposite ends 170, 210, and wherein identical weights 120 are fixed at each bore. Accordingly, the plurality of weights 120, 130 provided as part of the dumbbell system 1900 may include pairs of weights having similar masses to each other.

[0091] Further, the elongated body 110 may similarly be provided in pairs of identical such bodies. For example, dumbbells may be provided in pairs so that a user can use identical weights in each hand. Accordingly, the plurality of weights 120, 130 may be provided in groups of four in which each weight 120 in a first group of four is identical to each other, and each weight 130 in a second group of four is identical to each other, but wherein each weight 120 from the first group differs in mass from each weight 130 of the second group.

[0092] Further, as shown, the dumbbell system 1900 may further comprise a carrying case 1910 with designated spaces for the elongated body 110, the second elongated body 110, the first group of four weights 120, and the second group of four weights 130.

[0093] Figure 21 is the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 12 with an accessory 2100 installed in accordance with this disclosure. Figure 22 is a section view of the dumbbell assembly 100 as shown in FIG. 21 along line 22-22. Figure 23 is an accessory fixation segment 2110 for mating with a bore 160 of the dumbbell assembly 100. Figure 24 is the dumbbell assembly 100 of FIG. 21 paired with a second dumbbell assembly 100 to form a jump rope 2400.

[0094] As shown, the accessory 2100 may include an accessory fixation segment 2110. This accessory fixation segment 2110 may be interchangeable with the fixation segments 810 associated with the weights 120, 130, as discussed above. Accordingly, the accessory fixation segment 2110 may be substantially cylindrical and threaded 2120 formating with the threading 190 of the bore 160. Accordingly, the accessory fixation segment 2110 may be fixable to the bore 160 in place of the weight fixation segment 810. In this way, the accessory 2100 may be mated with the elongated body 110 in place of the weights 120, 130.

[0095] As shown, the accessory 2100 may include a cable retaining segment 2130, and a cable 2140 may be provided for mating with the cable retaining segment. In some embodiments, the cable 2140 may include an anchor 2150 for limiting travel within the cable retaining segment 2130. It is noted that the accessory fixation segment 2110 may be provided as a single unit, and the cable retaining segment 2130 may therefore be embedded within or incorporated into the accessory fixation segment 2110.

[0096] As shown, the accessory 2100 may include a second accessory fixation segment 2110 substantially similar to the first accessory fixation segment. The second accessory fixation segment 2110 could then mate with the elongated body and bore 160 of a second elongated body 110. The second accessory fixation segment 2110 then comprises a second cable retaining segment 2130 which can separately retain the cable 2140 at an opposite end.

[0097] The accessory 2100 may be a jump rope 2400 as shown in FIG 4, and may then include the cable 2140 or rope extending from the cable retaining segment 2130 of the first accessory fixation segment 2110 fixed to the first elongated body 110 to the second cable retaining segment of the second accessory fixation segment fixed to the second elongated body. The elongated bodies 110 may then define two handles for a jump rope 2400.

[0098] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cable 2140 may be an elastic cable extending from the cable retaining segment 2130, and may be utilized as a resistance trainer or resistance band. Accordingly, the cable 2140 may extend from the first accessory fixation segment 2110 to a second accessory fixation segment, each fixed at corresponding elongated bodies 110 defining two handles for such a resistance trainer. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a second end of the cable 2140 may be anchored toa fixed object, and the first elongated body 110 may serve as a single handle for a variety of exercises.

[0099] Similarly, in the context of the system 1900 discussed in reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, such a system may further include at least one accessory 2100, the accessory including an accessory fixation segment 2110 threaded for mating with the bore 160 of the elongated body 110 in place of a weight 120, 130 of the interchangeable weights.

[0100] In the context of the system, the accessory 2100 may include two accessory fixation segments 21 10 for fixing to each of the corresponding elongated bodies 110, and may further include a cable 2140 to form a jump rope 2400 as shown. The carrying case 1910 may then be adjusted or modified to accommodate the accessory 2100 as appropriate.

[0101] While the present invention has been described at some length and with some particularity with respect to the several described embodiments, it is not intended that it should be limited to any such particulars or embodiments or any particular embodiment, but it is to be construed with references to the appended claims so as to provide the broadest possible interpretation of such claims in view of the prior art and, therefore, to effectively encompass the intended scope of the invention. Furthermore, the foregoing describes the invention in terms of embodiments foreseen by the inventor for which an enabling description was available, notwithstanding that insubstantial modifications of the invention, not presently foreseen, may nonetheless represent equivalents thereto.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A dumbbell assembly comprising: an elongated body having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary in an axial direction; at least one bore at a first end of the elongated body extending in the axial direction; and at least one weight removably received at the at least one bore; wherein the at least one weight has a weighted segment having a cross-sectional boundary substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body, such that when received at the at least one bore, the weighted segment is located adjacent the first end of the elongated body and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for the dumbbell assembly.

2. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one weight is selected from a plurality of weights, wherein a first weight of the plurality of weights has a first mass and a second weight of the plurality of weights has a second mass different from the first mass, and wherein each of the first weight and the second weight are configured to be removably received at the at least one bore.

3. The dumbbell assembly of claim 2, wherein the weighted segment of the at least one weight has an axial direction along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and wherein the first weight and the second weight have weighted segments having different lengths along the axial direction corresponding to their respective masses.

4. The dumbbell assembly of claim 2, wherein the first weight and the second weight of the plurality of weights are formed from different materials having different specific masses.

5. The dumbbell assembly of claim 2, wherein the first weight and the second weight are distinguished from each other aesthetically, such that a visual characteristic corresponds to and indicates a mass of the corresponding weight.

6. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one weight has a weight fixation segment, and wherein the bore and the weight fixation segment are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating.

7. The dumbbell assembly of claim 6, wherein the weight fixation segment is interchangeable with an accessory fixation segment, such that an accessory is fixable to the bore in place of the weight fixation segment.

8. The dumbbell assembly of claim 7, wherein the accessory fixation segment comprises a cable retainer, and wherein the cable retainer is paired with a second substantially similar accessory fixation segment for mating with a second elongated body.

9. The dumbbell assembly of claim 8 further comprising a cable or rope extending from the cable retainer to the second accessory fixation segment, and wherein the elongated body defines a first handle for a jump rope and the second elongated body defines a second handle for the jump rope.

10. The dumbbell assembly of claim 8 further comprising an elastic cable extending from the cable retainer to the second accessory fixation segment, and wherein the elongated body defines a first handle for a resistance trainer or resistance band.

11. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the elongated body or an end of the weighted segment adjacent the first end of the elongated body is beveled such that when assembled the dumbbell assembly has a notch distinguishing the elongated body from the weighted segment.

12. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1 wherein the at least one bore is two bores, and wherein a first bore of the two bores is at the first end of the elongated body and a second bore of the two bores is at a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, and wherein the at least one weight is two weights removably received within the respective two bores.

13. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1, wherein the elongated body has a first mass and the at least one weight has a second mass, such that a total mass of the dumbbell assembly is the sum of the first mass and the second mass.

14. The dumbbell assembly of claim 13, wherein the elongated body has a first length in the axial direction and wherein the at least one weight has a second length along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and wherein the first mass and the second mass are proportional to the first length and the second length respectively.

15. The dumbbell assembly of claim 1, wherein the elongated body has a surface finish different than a surface finish of the weighted segment of the at least one weight.

16. The dumbbell assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one weight has a substantially smooth surface and wherein the elongated body has a textured surface.

17. The dumbbell assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one weight has a metallic surface and wherein the elongated body has a rubberized surface.

18. A dumbbell system comprising: an elongated body having a substantially consistent cross-sectional boundary in an axial direction; at least one bore at a first end of the elongated body extending in the axial direction; and a plurality of interchangeable weights, each configured for fixation in the at least one bore; wherein each of the plurality of interchangeable weights has a weighted segment having a cross-sectional boundary substantially similar to the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body, wherein at least one of the plurality of interchangeable weights is removably received by the at least one bore, such that when the at least one weight is received at the at least one bore, the weighted segment is located adjacent the first end of the elongated body and extends the cross-sectional boundary of the elongated body so as to define a continuous cross-sectional profile for a corresponding dumbbell assembly.

19. The dumbbell system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of interchangeable weights comprises a first weight having a first mass and a second weight having a secondmass, and wherein the at least one of the plurality of interchangeable weights removably received by the at least one bore is selected based on its mass.

20. The dumbbell system of claim 19, wherein each of the plurality of interchangeable weights comprises a fixation segment, and wherein the bore and the fixation segments are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating.

21. The dumbbell system of claim 19, wherein the weighted segment of the at least one weight has a length along which the cross-sectional boundary extends, and wherein the first weight and the second weight have weighted segments having different lengths corresponding to their respective masses.

22. The dumbbell system of claim 18, wherein the at least one bore is two bores, and wherein a first bore of the two bores is at the first end of the elongated body and a second bore of the two bores is at a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, and wherein the plurality of interchangeable weights comprises pairs of weights having similar masses to each other.

23. The dumbbell system of claim 22 further comprising a second elongated body, and wherein the plurality of interchangeable weights comprise groups of four weights in which each weight within a first group of four is identical to each other, and wherein each weight within a second group of four is identical to each other, but wherein each weight of the first group differs in mass from each weight of the second group.

24. The dumbbell system of claim 23 further comprising a carrying case with designated spaces for the elongated body, the second elongated body, the first group of four weights and the second group of four weights.

25. The dumbbell system of claim 18, wherein each of the plurality of interchangeable weights comprises a fixation segment, and wherein the bore and the fixation segments are substantially cylindrical and threaded for mating, the system further comprising at least one accessory, wherein the accessory comprises an accessory fixation segment threaded for mating with the bore of the elongated body in place of a weight of the plurality of interchangeable weights.

26. The dumbbell system of claim 25, wherein the at least one accessory comprises a jump rope, and wherein the accessory fixation segment is a cable retainer for fixing a first end of a cable of the jump rope to the bore of the elongated body.

27. The dumbbell system of claim 26 further comprising a second elongated body, wherein the jump rope comprises a second cable retainer, and wherein the second cable retainer fixes a second end of the cable of the jump rope opposite the first end to the second elongated body, such that the elongated body and the second elongated body each define a handle for the jump rope.

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