Multi-configuration footplate for exercise devices

Abstract

A footplate hingedly coupled to an exercise device is described herein. A footplate may include a locking mechanism. The footplate include: a first configuration where a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device, and a second configuration where the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device such that an end of the footplate is in contact or approximately in contact with a surface that the exercise device is resting upon.

Description

MULTI-CONFIGURATION FOOTPLATE FOR EXERCISE DEVICESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 676,180, filed July 26, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This disclosure relates generally to the field of exercise devices, and more specifically to the field of multi-configuration footplates utilized in exercise devices. The multi-configuration footplate may have an adjustable angle.BACKGROUND

[0004] Exercise devices come in many shapes and sizes, however, to save space and increase value, exercise devices use many modular forms. Although many different exercise devices exist, many lack the adjustable functionality and / or modularity for foot, ankle, and / or leg exercises.SUMMARY

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an exercise device including: a locking mechanism; and a footplate coupled to the exercise device, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device such that at least a portion of the footplate is approximately in contact with, or in proximity to, a surface that the exercise device is resting upon.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a multi-configuration exercise device, including: a body support pad; a leg pad; a footplate coupled to the multi-configuration exercise device; and a locking mechanism, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multi-configuration exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multi -configuration exercise device such that at least a portion of the multi-configuration footplate is in contact or near a surface that the multi-configuration exercise device is resting upon.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology are described below in connection with various embodiments, with reference made to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise device in a first configuration.

[0009] FIG. 2 shows a zoomed in perspective side view of an embodiment of a multiconfiguration footplate on an exercise machine in the first configuration shown in FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 3 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise device in a second configuration.

[0011] FIG. 4 shows a zoomed in perspective side view of an embodiment of a multiconfiguration footplate on an exercise machine in the second configuration shown in FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 5 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a first configuration.

[0013] FIG. 6 shows a zoomed in perspective side view of an embodiment of a multiconfiguration footplate on an exercise machine in the first configuration shown in FIG. 5.

[0014] FIG. 7 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a second configuration.

[0015] FIG. 8 shows a zoomed in perspective side view of an embodiment of a multiconfiguration footplate on an exercise machine in the second configuration shown in FIG. 7.

[0016] FIG. 9 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a first configuration, the multi-configuration exercise machine being in an expanded configuration.

[0017] FIG. 10 shows a top view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a first configuration, the multi-configuration exercise machine being in an expanded configuration.

[0018] FIG. 11 shows a front view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a first configuration, the multi-configuration exercise machine being in an expanded configuration.

[0019] FIG. 12 shows a perspective back view of an embodiment of a multi-configuration footplate on an exercise machine in a first configuration, the multi-configuration exercise machine being in an expanded configuration.

[0020] The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the disclosure. The schematics are drawn to illustrate features and concepts and are not necessarily drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology will now be described in connection with various embodiments. The inclusion of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the contemplated invention(s). Other embodiments may be utilized, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. Aspects of the disclosure, as described and illustrated herein, can be arranged, combined, modified, and designed in a variety of different formulations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure.

[0022] Disclosed herein are devices and systems for utilizing a multi-configuration footplate. The multi-configuration footplates described herein may be used in conjunction with exercise devices for the support of a user’s foot or feet during exercise. Exercise devices do not commonly have adjustable supports for a user’s feet during exercises; thus, the multiconfiguration footplate solves this need. Including these multi-configuration footplates with an exercise device provides additional capabilities and allows for a greater flexibility in number and types of exercises that the exercise device may provide to a user. Further, including the multi -configuration footplate provides for more efficient use of storage space for the number of exercises a user of the exercise device can accomplish. A firstconfiguration of the footplate may include a longitudinal axis of the footplate being approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame and may be positioned such that a user may brace their ankle or ankles (e.g., on a cylindrical ankle pad), while bracing their foot or feet upon the footplate. A second configuration of the footplate may include a longitudinal axis of the footplate being angled relative to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame, such that an end or a portion of the footplate is near or touching the ground. Although two different multi-configuration exercise devices (e.g., exercise devices being movable between two or more configurations) are shown in the figures, it is contemplated that any suitable exercise device utilized in supporting exercises such as back extensions, Nordics, and / or glute-ham raises (GHR) may utilize the multi-configuration footplates described below.

[0023] The multi-configuration footplate provides several advantages for exercise devices. By allowing adjustable configurations, the footplate enhances versatility and enables a wider range of exercises to be performed on a single device. This adaptability accommodates different user preferences and exercise requirements, improving overall user comfort and exercise effectiveness. In particular, the adjustable nature of the multi-configuration footplate contributes to space efficiency, for example, by allowing vertical storage for home gyms or areas with limited space. Additionally, the multi-configuration footplate provides the ability to adapt to exercises not previously available to a user without adding a new exercise device to their home gym or another device to take up additional space while maintaining stability and comfort. Thus, utilizing the multi-configuration footplate results in an exercise device that is suitable for a wider range of users and exercises and reduces the footprint of the exercise device on the user’s living space.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of an embodiment of an exercise device 1000 with a multi-configuration footplate 100 in a first configuration. The multi-configuration footplate 100 includes a plate 10 hingedly coupled to an exercise device 1000. In some embodiments, the exercise device 1000 may include, as shown in FIG. 1, a multi-configuration exercise device 1000 that may be placed in different configurations for utilization by a user of the exercise device 1000. In some embodiments, the exercise device 1000 may include an interface frame 1100, an optional body support pad 110, an optional leg support pad(s) 12, optional handlebar(s) 120, main support frame 112, and leg support frames 130, 140. In some embodiments, the main support frame 112 and leg support frames 130, 140 provide a stable base for the rest of the exercise device 1000 and prevent tipping of the exercise device 1000when in use. In some embodiments, the leg support frames 130, 140 extend approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 113 of the main support frame 112. In some embodiments, the leg support frames 130, 140 extend from approximately at the ends 133, 143 or an end portion of the main support frame 112; however, any configuration, including where the leg support frames 130, 140 extend from points closer to the center 137 of the main support frame 112 may be included as long as the leg support frames 130,140 prevent tipping of the exercise device 1000 in both the unexpanded configuration of FIGS. 1-4 and expanded configuration similar to those shown in FIGS. 5-8. In some embodiments, the optional body support pad 110, the multi-configuration footplate 100, the optional leg support pad(s) 12, and an optional handlebar(s) 120 are attached to the interface frame 1100 of the exercise device 1000. In some embodiments, the interface frame 1100 may be hingedly supported by the main support frame 112 on an end 133 near leg support frame 130. In some embodiments, the optional body support pad 110 is attached to the interface frame 1100 with any method of fixation including hook and loop, buttons, zipper, adjustment screw, adjustment knob, pin knob, and / or other fasteners that may be used to prevent movement of the optional body support pad 110 on the interface frame 1100 when in use but may be removable when not in use. In some embodiments, the optional leg support pad(s) 12 may attach to the interface frame 1100 with a protruding extension 13 and be height adjustable based on a user’s leg. The optional leg support pad(s) 12 may be used to trap the calve(s) or ankle(s) of a user’s leg when utilized, for example, in glute-ham raise (GHR) exercises or back extension exercises, or the shin or back of the knee when utilized, for example, in core exercises such as during sit-ups. In some embodiments, the optional leg support pad(s) 12 may be removed to provide direct access (or unimpeded) from the device to the multi-configuration footplate 100. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism 15 may include a spring-loaded locking pin; however, any suitable, easily adjustable and lockable method may be utilized. For example, the lock mechanism 15 may include spring-loaded locking pins, latch bolts, spring-loaded plungers, ball lock pins, screw lock pins, etc. In some embodiments, the optional handlebars 120 may be removable but are attached to the interface frame 1100 to support a user’s body weight when a user wants to adjust their body position on the exercise device 1000. In some embodiments, the handlebars 120 may be utilized by a user to reconfigure the exercise device 1000 into an expanded configuration, thereby allowing the user to hold open the interface frame 1100 of the exercise device 1000 while reconfiguring any frames providing support tothe interface frame 1100 and preventing the interface frame 1100 from falling when the user is utilizing the exercise device 1000 in any of the expanded configurations.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2, which is a zoomed in perspective side view of the multi configuration footplate 100 of FIG. 1. The multi-configuration footplate 100 including a hinge 18, a first bracket 16, an optional second bracket 17, a locking mechanism 14, and a plate 10. In some embodiments, the multi-configuration footplate 100 is attached to the exercise device 1000 using the hinge 18, the first bracket 16, the optional second bracket 17, and the locking mechanism 14. In some embodiments, the hinge 18 may include any suitable mechanism that includes easy adjustability of angle but is fixed to the attachment point preventing easy removal of the multi-configuration footplate 100. In some embodiments, the hinge 18 allows for rotation of the multi-configuration footplate 100 to different angles 42 between the longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 1100 and the longitudinal axis 24 of the plate 10. In some embodiments, the angle 42 may be adjustable to any angle between about 100 degrees to about -20 degrees (when the plate 10 is angled past the longitudinal axis 26), about 90 to about -15 degrees, about 80 to about -10 degrees, about 75 to about 0 degrees, etc. The multi-configuration footplate 100 has a longitudinal axis 24 of plate 10 that is oriented approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 1100 of the exercise device 1000. The multi-configuration footplate 100 may include a locking mechanism 14 with a longitudinal axis 30 that is at an angle 32 from the longitudinal axis 24 of the plate 10. In some embodiments, angle 32 may include any easily adjustable angle between about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 35 degrees, etc. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 14 includes a spring-loaded locking pin; however, any suitable easily removable and lockable mechanism may be utilized. For example, the locking mechanism 14 may include a spring-loaded locking pin, latch bolts, spring loaded plungers, ball lock pins, screw lock pins, etc. The angle 32 of the locking mechanism 14 providing an easily used and accessible interface for a user to actuate the locking mechanism 14 while rotating plate 10 to the multiple configurations. The multi-configuration footplate 100 may be locked in the first configuration using the locking mechanism 14 interfacing with a bracket 16, which defines a pin-hole assembly substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 30 of the locking mechanism 14 in the first configuration. However, in the second configuration (as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4), the locking mechanism 14 may interface with bracket 17 with asimilarly defined pin-hole assembly substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 30 of the locking mechanism 14.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective side view of an embodiment of an exercise device 1000 with a multi-configuration footplate 100 in a second configuration (i.e., with the plate 10 in an extended configuration). FIG. 4 is a zoomed in perspective side view of the multiconfiguration footplate 100 of FIG. 3. The multi-configuration footplate 100 includes a longitudinal axis 24 of the plate 10 oriented with an angle 22 to a longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 1100 of the exercise device 1000. The multi-configuration footplate 100 may be locked in the second configuration using the locking mechanism 14 interfacing with a bracket 17, which defines a pin-hole assembly substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis 30 of the locking mechanism 14 in the second configuration. In the second configuration, the plate 10 is angled such that the end 11 of the plate 10 is approximately in contact or in proximity to (i.e., within about 0.01 cm to about 20cm, 0.05 cm to about 15 cm, about 0.1 cm to about 10 cm, about 0.1 cm to about 2 cm, etc.) the resting surface 200 of the exercise device 1000 (i.e., the surface 200 that leg support frames 130, 140, and / or main support frame 112 may sit on top of, e.g., the g). Additionally, the longitudinal axis 30 of the locking mechanism 14 may be approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 1100 of the exercise device 1000. In the second configuration, the plate 10 may be used for slant board exercises when the end 11 of plate 10 contacts or is about in contact with or in proximity to the resting surface of the exercise device 1000 and / or heel raises when the plate 10 is not fully touching the resting surface (e.g., ground, floor), such as when an end 11 of the plate 10 is not in contact with the resting surface (e.g., ground, floor). In some embodiments, angle 22 may be about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 40 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 35 degrees, etc. The longitudinal axis 30 of the locking mechanism 14 may be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis 24 of the plate 10 such that angle 32 is approximately equal to angle 22, as shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, brackets 16, 17 are separate brackets; however, brackets 16, 17 may be combined, in some embodiments, to allow for multiple pin-holes assemblies and angles to configure the multi-configuration footplate 100. In some embodiments, more than two brackets may be utilized to configure the multi-configuration footplate 100 in multiple angles. In some embodiments, the plate 10 may include support protrusion 19 that provides support to the plate 10 when in the extended configuration shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the support protrusion 19 is triangular in shape, as shown in FIG. 4. In someembodiments, the support protrusion 19 is any shape (e.g., semi-circle, u-shaped, polygonal, etc.) and may include depth along the width (e.g., in the orthogonal direction to the longitudinal axis 24) that may supplement the surface area of end 11 and provide further resting surface area in contact with the resting surface (e.g., floor, ground, etc ). The support protrusion 19 may supplement the surface area of end 11 of plate 10 to rest the plate 10 against the resting surface (e g., floor, ground, etc.) of exercise device 1000.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a perspective side view of an embodiment of an exercise device 2000 with a multi-configuration footplate 2100 in a first configuration. The exercise device 2000 of FIGS. 5-12 include multiple distinct advantages to the exercise device 1000 of FIGS. 1-4. These may include but are not limited to wider and more supportive body support pads 2110, support legs 2019 utilized on the multi-configuration footplate 2100, u-shaped leg support frames 2130, 2140, dip-bar 2120, and a single bracket 2016.

[0028] The multi-configuration footplate 2100 of FIG. 5 includes a plate 2010 hingedly coupled to an exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the exercise device 2000 may include, as shown in FIG. 5, a multi-configuration exercise device 2000 that may be placed in different configurations for utilization by a user of the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the exercise device 2000 may include an interface frame 2180, an optional body support pad 2110, an optional leg support pad(s) 2012, dip-bar 2120, main support frame 2112, and leg support frames 2130, 2140. In some embodiments, the main support frame 2112 and leg support frames 2130, 2140 provide a stable base for the rest of the exercise device 2000 and prevent tipping of the exercise device 1000 when in use. In some embodiments, the leg support frames 2130, 2140 extending substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 2113 of the main support frame 2112. In some embodiments, the leg support frames 2130, 2140 extend from approximately at the ends 2133, 2143 or an end portion of the main support frame 2112; however, any configuration, including where the leg support frames 2130, 2140 extend from points closer to the center 2137 of the main support frame 2112, may be included as long as the leg support frames 2130, 2140 prevent tipping of the exercise device 2000 in both the unexpanded configuration of FIGS. 5-8 and expanded configuration similar to those shown in FIGS. 9-12. In some embodiments, support frames 2130, 2140 are in a u-shape to further provide support and prevent the exercise device 2000 from tilting in any configuration, with most exercise routines, without providing counterweights. Additionally, the u-shaped leg support frames 2130, 2140 do not interfere with dip exercises which require as much vertical space as possible for the user. In someembodiments, support frame 2140 includes a handle 2142 to allow a user of the exercise device 2000 to provide a grip location to support movement or lifting of the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the optional body support pad 2110, the multi -configuration footplate 2100, the optional leg support pad(s) 2012, and an optional dip-bar 2120 are attached to the interface frame 2180 of the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the interface frame 2180 may be hingedly supported by the main support frame 2112 on an end 2133 near leg support frame 2130. In some embodiments, the body support pad 2110 is attached to the interface frame 2180 with any method of fixation including hook and loop, buttons, zipper, adjustment screw, adjustment knob, pin knob, and / or other fasteners that may prevent movement of the optional body support pad 2110 on the interface frame 2180 when in use but may be removable when not in use. In some embodiments, optional body support pad 2110 includes curved surfaces on one or more ends 211 la, 211 lb to reduce pressure on kneecaps during back extension exercises and enable full-range GHR exercises. In some embodiments, the leg support pad(s) 2012 may attach to the interface frame 2180 with a protruding extension 2013 and be height adjustable based on a user’s leg. The leg support pad(s) 2012 may trap or secure the calves of a user’s leg when utilized, for example, in gluteham raise (GHR) or back extension exercises, or the shin or back of the knee when utilized, for example, in core exercises such as during sit-ups. In some embodiments, the leg support pad(s) 2012 may be removed to provide direct access (unimpeded access) from the device to the multi-configuration footplate 2100. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism 2015 may include a spring-loaded locking pin; however, any suitable easily adjustable and lockable method may be utilized. For example, the lock mechanism 2015 may include spring-loaded locking pins, latch bolts, spring loaded plungers, ball lock pins, screw lock pins, etc. In some embodiments, the optional dip-bars 2120 may be removable, but are attached to the interface frame 2180 to support a user’s body weight when a user wants to adjust their body position on the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the optional dip-bar 2120 may be utilized by a user to reconfigure the exercise device 2000 into an expanded configuration, thereby allowing the user to hold open the interface frame 2180 of the exercise device 2000 while reconfiguring any frames providing support to the interface frame 2180 and preventing the interface frame 2180 from falling when the user is utilizing the exercise device 2000 in any of the expanded configurations. In some embodiments, dip-bar 2120 may be used for dip exercises when the exercise device 2000 is at a predetermined expanded configuration angle. As described below in FIG. 9, a predetermined angle 2222 may configure the dip-bars 2120to be utilized in an approximately parallel state (i.e., horizontal) relative to the resting surface (e.g., floor, ground, etc.) of the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, the dip-bar 2120 is utilized when angle 2222 is approximately at about 50 degrees due to the bends 2122 in the dip-bar 2120. In some embodiments, the bends 2122 in the dip-bar 2120, and therefore the angle 2222, may be at other predetermined angles to configure the utilization of the dip-bar 2120 during dip exercises. For example, angle 2222 may be between about 35 degrees and about 65 degrees, about 40 degrees and about 60 degrees, about 45 degrees and about 50 degrees, etc.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 6, which is a zoomed in perspective side view of the multi configuration footplate 2100 of FIG. 5, the multi-configuration footplate 2100 is attached to the exercise device 2000 using a hinge (not shown), a bracket 2016, and a locking mechanism 2014. In some embodiments, the hinge may include any suitable mechanism that includes easy adjustability of angle but is fixed to the attachment point preventing easy removal of the multi-configuration footplate 2100. In some embodiments, the hinge allows for rotation of the multi-configuration footplate 2100 to different angles 42 between the longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 2180 and the longitudinal axis 2024 of the plate 2010. In some embodiments, the angle 2042 may be adjustable to any angle between about - 20 degrees (when the plate 10 is angled past the longitudinal axis 26) to about 100 degrees, about- 15 degrees to about 90 degrees, about -10 degrees to about 80 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 70 degrees, etc. The multi-configuration footplate 2100 has a longitudinal axis 24 of plate 10 that is oriented approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 26 of the interface frame 2180 of the exercise device 2000. The multi-configuration footplate 2100 may include a locking mechanism 2014 with a longitudinal axis 2030 that is at an angle 2032 from the longitudinal axis 2024 of the plate 2010. In embodiments, angle 2032 may include any easily adjustable angle between about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 35 degrees, etc. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 2014 includes a spring-loaded locking pin; however, any suitable easily removable and lockable mechanism may be utilized. For example, the locking mechanism 2014 may include a spring-loaded locking pin, latch bolts, spring loaded plungers, ball lock pins, screw lock pins, etc. The multi-configuration footplate 2100 may be locked in the first configuration using the locking mechanism 2014 interfacing with a bracket 2016, which defines a pin-hole assembly substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 2030 of the locking mechanism 2014 in the first configuration. However, inthe second configuration (as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8), the locking mechanism 2014 may interface with another part of bracket 2016 with a similarly defined pin-hole assembly substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 2030 of the locking mechanism 2014.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a perspective side view of an embodiment of an exercise device 2000 with a multi-configuration footplate 2100 in a second configuration (i.e., with the plate 2010 in the second or collapsed configuration). FIG. 8 is a zoomed in perspective side view of the multiconfiguration footplate 2100 of FIG. 7. The multi-configuration footplate 2100 has a longitudinal axis 2024 of the plate 2010 oriented with an angle 2022 relative to a longitudinal axis 2026 of the interface frame 2180 of the exercise device 2000. The multi-configuration footplate 2100 may be locked in the second configuration using the locking mechanism 2014 interfacing with a second pin-hole assembly of the bracket 2016 that is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis 2030 of the locking mechanism 2014 in the second configuration. In the second configuration, the plate 2010 is angled such that the end 2011 of the plate 2010 is approximately in contact or in proximity to (i.e., within 0.01 cm to about 20cm, 0.05 cm to about 15 cm, about 0.1 cm to about 10 cm, about 0.1 cm to about 2 cm, etc.) the resting surface (i.e., the surface that leg support frames 2130, 2140, and / or main support frame 2112 may sit on top of, e.g., floor, ground, etc.) of the exercise device 2000. In some embodiments, in the second configuration, the plate 2010 remains about 2 in to about 6 in, about 3 in to about 5 in, about 3.5 in to about 4.5 in off the resting surface to provide space for the support legs 2019 to remain open and configured to provide a step for step exercises such as banded deadlifts, step-downs, and lefferson curls. In the second configuration, the plate 2010 may be used for slant board exercises when the end 2011 of plate 2010 contacts or is about in contact with, or in proximity to the resting surface of the exercise device 2000 and / or heel raises when the plate 2010 is not fully touching the resting surface, such as when an end 2011 of the plate 2010 is not in contact with the resting surface. In some embodiments, angle 2022 may be about 15 degrees to about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 40 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 35 degrees, etc. The longitudinal axis 2030 of the locking mechanism 2014 may be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis 2024 of the plate 2010 such that angle 2032 is approximately equal to angle 2022, as shown in FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, bracket 2016 includes a plurality of pinholes for setting different angle configurations of the multi-configuration footplate 2100. In some embodiments, the plate 2010 may include support legs 2019 that provide support to plate 2010 when placing the exercise device 2000 in a vertical storage position (thus taking up less floor area) to providemore surface area to support the exercise device 2000 to stand in a substantially vertical state. In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 may include a pin or other locking mechanism to prevent the support legs 2019 from folding into an unexpanded state. In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 are folded into an unexpanded state to allow the multiconfiguration footplate 2100 to be placed in the second configuration. In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 may include one or more legs. The support legs 2019 may be folded to prevent interference with the resting surface (e.g., floor, ground) as the plate 2010 is rotated to the second configuration. In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 include a one or more pins 2021 to set the state (e.g., open state, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 or folded state, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) of the support legs 2019. In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 may include two configured states (e.g., an open or deployed or extended state and a folded or collapsed state). In some embodiments, the support legs 2019 may include more than two configured states (e.g., open and folded states, and one or more intermediary states to provide support for the multi-configuration footplate 2100 in different configurations).

[0031] FIGS. 9-12 show a perspective side view (FIG. 9), a top view (FIG. 10), a front view (FIG. 11), and a perspective back view (FIG.12) of the exercise device 2000 in an expanded configuration. In FIGS. 9-12, the multi-configuration footplate 2100 is in a first configuration. FIG. 9 additionally shows an angle 2222 between the longitudinal axis 2113 of the main support frame 2112 and the longitudinal axis 2026 of the interface frame 2180. In some embodiments, angle 2222 may be set at predetermined angles by notches 2119 within support bracket 2117 and secondary support frame 2118. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the main support frame 2112 may include pinholes 2121 which may allow for locking extension of the main support frame 2112 when utilized with a lock mechanism (not shown). In some embodiments, the lock mechanism (not shown) may include a pin or other locking mechanism to prevent the main support frame 2112 from changing length.EXAMPLES

[0032] Example 1. An exercise device comprising: a locking mechanism; and a footplate coupled to the exercise device, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device such that at least a portion of the footplate is approximately in contact with, or in proximity to, a surface that the exercise device is resting upon.

[0033] Example 2. The exercise device of example 1, wherein the footplate is hingedly coupled to the exercise device.

[0034] Example 3. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes a spring-loaded pin.

[0035] Example 4. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the exercise device includes a multi-configuration exercise device being movable between a plurality of configurations.

[0036] Example 5. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the footplate changes between the first configuration and the second configuration using a hinge mechanism.

[0037] Example 6. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the footplate includes one or more legs to stand the exercise device in a vertical state.

[0038] Example 7. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 6, wherein the one or more legs provide support from the surface for the footplate in the second configuration.

[0039] Example 8. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 6, wherein the one or more legs are hingedly connected to the footplate.

[0040] Example 9. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 8, wherein the one or more legs comprise a locking mechanism including a pin.

[0041] Example 10. The exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the footplate includes a protrusion that supports the footplate when contacting the surface for a user of the exercise device to stand on.

[0042] Example 11. A multi-configuration exercise device, comprising: a body support pad; a leg pad; a footplate coupled to the multi-configuration exercise device; and a locking mechanism, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multi-configuration exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multi-configuration exercise device such that at least a portion of the multi-configuration footplate is in contact or near a surface that the multi-configuration exercise device is resting upon.

[0043] Example 12. The multi-configuration exercise device of example 11, wherein the footplate is hingedly coupled to the multi-configuration exercise device.

[0044] Example 13. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 11, wherein the locking mechanism includes a spring- loaded pin.

[0045] Example 14. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 11, wherein the footplate changes between the first configuration and the second configuration using a hinge mechanism.

[0046] Example 15. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 11, wherein the footplate comprises one or more legs to stand the multi-configuration exercise device in a vertical state, when the one or more legs are in an open state.

[0047] Example 16. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 15, wherein the one or more legs provide support from the surface for the footplate in the second configuration, when the one or more legs are in a folded state.

[0048] Example 17. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 15, wherein the one or more legs are hingedly connected to the footplate.

[0049] Example 18. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 17, wherein the one or more legs comprise a locking mechanism comprising a pin.

[0050] Example 19. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 11, wherein the footplate includes a protrusion that supports the footplate when contacting the surface for a user of the multi-configuration exercise device to stand on.

[0051] Example 20. The multi-configuration exercise device of any of the preceding examples, but particularly example 11, further comprising: a dip-bar that is configured to be utilized by a user of the multi-configuration exercise device when the multi-configuration exercise device is in an expanded configuration.

[0052] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an illustrative embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may ormay not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0053] As used in the description and claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include both singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “microphone” may include, and is contemplated to include, a plurality of microphones. At times, the claims and disclosure may include terms such as “a plurality,” “one or more,” or “at least one;” however, the absence of such terms is not intended to mean, and should not be interpreted to mean, that a plurality is not conceived.

[0054] The term “about” or “approximately,” when used before a numerical designation or range (e.g., to define a length), indicates approximations which may vary by ( + ) or ( - ) 5%, 1% or 0.1%. All numerical ranges provided herein are inclusive of the stated start and end numbers. The term “substantially” indicates mostly (i.e., greater than 50%) or essentially all of a device, substance, or composition.

[0055] As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is intended to mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements, and may additionally include any other elements. “Consisting essentially of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude other elements of essential significance to the combination for the stated purpose. Thus, a system or method consisting essentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude other materials, features, or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed disclosure. “Consisting of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude anything more than a trivial or inconsequential element or step. Embodiments defined by each of these transitional terms are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0056] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending tovoluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An exercise device comprising: a locking mechanism; and a footplate coupled to the exercise device, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the exercise device such that at least a portion of the footplate is approximately in contact with, or in proximity to, a surface that the exercise device is resting upon.

2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the footplate is hingedly coupled to the exercise device.

3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes a spring- loaded pin.

4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exercise device includes a multiconfiguration exercise device being movable between a plurality of configurations.

5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the footplate changes between the first configuration and the second configuration using a hinge mechanism.

6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the footplate includes one or more legs to stand the exercise device in a vertical state.

7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the one or more legs provide support from the surface for the footplate in the second configuration.

8. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the one or more legs are hingedly connected to the footplate.

9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the one or more legs comprise a locking mechanism including a pin.

10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the footplate includes a protrusion that supports the footplate when contacting the surface for a user of the exercise device to stand on.

11. A multi-configuration exercise device, comprising: a body support pad;a leg pad; a footplate coupled to the multi-configuration exercise device; and a locking mechanism, wherein the footplate has: a first configuration wherein a longitudinal axis of the footplate is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multiconfiguration exercise device, and a second configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the footplate is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of an interface frame of the multi-configuration exercise device such that at least a portion of the multi-configuration footplate is in contact or near a surface that the multi-configuration exercise device is resting upon.

12. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, wherein the footplate is hingedly coupled to the multi-configuration exercise device.

13. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism includes a spring-loaded pin.

14. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, wherein the footplate changes between the first configuration and the second configuration using a hinge mechanism.

15. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, wherein the footplate comprises one or more legs to stand the multi-configuration exercise device in a vertical state, when the one or more legs are in an open state.

16. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 15, wherein the one or more legs provide support from the surface for the footplate in the second configuration, when the one or more legs are in a folded state.

17. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 15, wherein the one or more legs are hingedly connected to the footplate.

18. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 17, wherein the one or more legs comprise a locking mechanism comprising a pin.

19. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, wherein the footplate includes a protrusion that supports the footplate when contacting the surface for a user of the multi-configuration exercise device to stand on.

20. The multi-configuration exercise device of claim 11, further comprising:a dip-bar that is configured to be utilized by a user of the multi-configuration exercise device when the multi-configuration exercise device is in an expanded configuration.

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