An apparatus to facilitate open chain and closed chain leg press exercises

Abstract

An apparatus for facilitating open chain leg exercise combined with closed chain leg press exercise to strengthen lower body muscles of a user includes a moving platform that shifts forward and backward to facilitate knee and hip extension during leg press exercises, allowing the user to perform a range of leg press variations. A first range controller is configured on the platform, enabling precise adjustment of the exercise's range of motion to accommodate different user needs and enhance safety. Additionally, the apparatus features an adjustable seat assembly with a sliding unit, which permits vertical movement of a seat to match various body sizes and exercise postures.

Description

AN APPARATUS TO FACILITATE OPEN CHAIN AND CLOSED CHAIN LEG PRESS EXERCISESFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fitness equipment. Specifically, it pertains to an apparatus designed to facilitate open chain leg press exercises combined with closed chain leg press exercises to strengthen lower body muscles of a user.BACKGROUND

[0002] Leg press machines are essential tools in strength training, specifically engineered to target the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. These machines facilitate leg press exercises by enabling users to push a weighted platform away from their body using their legs.

[0003] Existing leg press devices are used for strength training, often have several limitations that can affect their effectiveness and user experience. Conventional leg press machines are designed for either open chain or closed chain leg press exercises but not for both. This restricts the range of exercises the users can perform on a single machine. The users may need multiple pieces of equipment to achieve a comprehensive lower body workout, which can be inconvenient and costly.

[0004] Many leg press machines feature a fixed movement path that cannot be adjusted. This means the angle and range of motion are predetermined and do not accommodate different user needs or anatomical variations. This limitation can lead to suboptimal exercise form and reduced effectiveness for the users with different body types or specific training requirements. Some leg press devices do not offer mechanisms to adjust the range of motion or control the movement of mechanism where the leg press is oriented from. As a result, the users might be restricted to a single range of motion that may not suit all users. Without the ability to adjust the range of motion, the users may experience discomfort or difficulty performing exercises correctly, especially those recovering from injuries or with limited flexibility.

[0005] Further, conventional leg press machines primarily focus on knee extension and may not effectively target hip flexion or other aspects of lower body strength. The users seeking comprehensive lower body workouts may need additional equipment orexercises to address all relevant muscle groups and movement patterns. Additionally, the convention leg press machines do not effectively replicate the complex leg motions that humans naturally perform during activities such as running, walking, and jumping.

[0006] Therefore, known machines for leg press exercises suffer from a major drawback, in that they do not facilitate performing both open and closed chain leg press exercises with the lower body at different intervals throughout the exercise. Further, the known machines do not have a mechanism to adjust range of motion or control the amount of motion of one or more components of the machine.

[0007] In view thereof, there is need for an innovative solution that addresses aforementioned drawbacks and limitations associated with the existing machines, by providing an apparatus designed to facilitate open chain exercise combined with closed chain leg press exercises to strengthen lower body muscles of a user.

[0008] There is, therefore, a need to overcome the drawbacks of conventional and existing leg press machines by providing an apparatus designed to facilitate open chain leg press exercise combined with closed chain leg press exercise to strengthen lower body muscles of a user.SUMMARY

[0009] A general objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus designed to facilitate open chain leg press exercise combined with closed chain leg press exercise to strengthen lower body muscles of a user.

[0010] It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that facilitates knee extension and hip flexion with minimal joint impact.

[0011] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus with adjustable features for more effective and comfortable lower body workouts.

[0012] It is another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that allows the user to perform open and closed chain hip extension with starting point being in deeper hip flexion, to create more drive and activation when doing the exercise and complete the function of hip and knee extension

[0013] In an aspect, the present invention provides an improved apparatus that can be implemented for performing open chain and closed chain leg press exercises to enhance lower body strength training and flexibility.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the apparatus includes a base structure, a movable platform (simply referred as platform herein) coupled to the base structure, and a seat assembly positioned spaced apart in front of the movable platform. The movable platform is inclined at an angle ranging from 20 to 30 degrees with a ground surface. The movable platform is designed to move in a forward and backward direction to facilitate knee and hip extension exercises. When the user presses his legs forward against the platform, the platform displaces in the forward direction. This simulates the open chain knee and hip extension exercises, where feet of the user are involved in the movement, thereby allowing for knee and hip extension. As the platform returns back to its initial position, i.e. in backward direction, it simulates the closed chain knee exercise, where the feet of the user are fixed, and the backward movement involves lower body exercise. More specifically, the user pushes the platform with his feet to create an initial motion of knee and hip extension of the platform moving downwards, his body remaining fixed and the feet moving. In addition, the amount of motion will be based on the user desired distance by using a first range controller. Once that platform gets to its end range of motion and stops, the users will then push off this platform and finish the knee and hip extension. In this part of the exercise, the user's feet remain fixed against the platform, and their body will slide upwards on the seat / slider mechanism, the feet remaining fixed and body moving upwards.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a first range controller configured to regulate or limit range of motion of the moving platform. The range controller can prevent excessive movement of the platform in any direction that can lead to discomfort or injury to the user. Further, incorporation of the range controller can enable the user to control his exercise intensity along with the range of motion of the moving platform. The apparatus can include a second range controller configured with the first weight stack to control the sliding motion of the seat.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include the seat assembly configured to accommodate users while performing exercise. The seat assembly caninclude a seat and a backrest being attached to the seat. The seat assembly can be inclined with the base frame. The seat can slide up and down along a sliding unit, ensuring that the user can be in optimal position relative to the platform. The sliding unit can be designed to adjust the vertical position of the seat. The vertical position adjustment can facilitate accommodating different body sizes and ensuring proper exercise form and alignment.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the sliding unit can include a set of tracks and sliders that slides along the tracks to facilitate vertical movement of the seat.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a first weight stack connected to the seat assembly. The first weight stack can be configured to provide adjustable resistance required while performing leg press exercise. The first weight stack can include a plurality of first weight plates stacked vertically on first guide rails, with a first selector pin to choose the desired weight.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a second weight stack connected to the movable platform. The second weight stack can be configured to provide additional resistance required during leg press exercises. The second weight stack can include a plurality of second weight plates stacked vertically on second guide rails, with a second selector pin to choose the desired weight.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a set of shoulder pads configured over the backrest. The shoulder pads can be configured to support the body of the user while exercising, specifically when the body moves upward. In addition, the shoulder pads prevent the user from sliding upwards on the backrest, ensuring the shoulder pads remain fixed and secure to the seat throughout the exercise.

[0021] As can be appreciated, for closed chain leg press exercise, the seat can be adjusted to align the user’s hips and knees properly with the platform. This adjustment ensures the back can be supported during the exercise. The seat can be vertically moved to accommodate the user’s height, ensuring that the feet can fully engage with the platform without overextending or straining the knees. For open chain leg press, the feet cannot be in contact with a fixed surface, instead, the legs can move freely (e.g., knee extensions on the apparatus where the feet are against the platform). For open chain exercises, the seat can be adjusted so that the user’s knees can be aligned with a pivot point of the apparatus. This ensures that the knees can move through the full range of motion withoutcompromising joint integrity. The seat and starting point can be adjusted to accommodate the user's anatomical position and allow them to start in deeper ranges of hip and knee flexion compared to traditional machines.

[0022] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus to facilitate open chain leg press exercise combined with closed chain leg press exercise, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary rear view of the movable platform of the apparatus of FIG, 1A, in accordance with an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the present invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention.

[0026] As used in the description herein, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0027] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention.

[0028] As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example, an object that is “substantially” cylindrical or “substantially” perpendicular would mean that the object / feature is either cylindrical / perpendicular or nearly cylindrical / perpendicular so as to result in the same or nearly the same function. The exact allowable degree of deviation provided by this term may depend on the specific context. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, a structure which is “substantially free of’ a bottom would either completely lack a bottom or so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would be effectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom.

[0029] Similarly, as used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishing the function associated with the range.

[0030] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a description herein is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition person skilled in the art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0031] Conventional leg press machines often face several limitations that impact their effectiveness and user experience. Most machines are designed exclusively for either open-chain or closed-chain leg press exercises, restricting the variety of workouts possible on a single machine or device, or leading users to require multiple pieces of equipment for a comprehensive lower body regimen. Additionally, many leg press machines have a fixed movement path with a predetermined angle and range of motion, which does not accommodate different user needs or anatomical variations. This can result in poor exercise form and reduced effectiveness for users with diverse body types or specific training goals. Furthermore, the lack of adjustable mechanisms for range of motion can lead to discomfort or difficulty in performing exercises, particularly for those recovering from injuries or with limited flexibility. Another known limitation of traditional leg press machines is that they do not take into account the natural biomechanics of the legs during activities like runningand walking. This oversight can further diminish the effectiveness of the exercises, as users may not be engaging the muscles in a way that reflects their functional movement patterns.

[0032] The apparatus of the present invention offers an innovative solution to the challenges posed by conventional and existing leg press machines by incorporating features such as a moving platform, a range controller, and an adjustable seat assembly with a sliding unit into the apparatus significantly overcoming the drawbacks of conventional and existing machines. The moving platform, which shifts forward and backward, provides versatility by allowing users to adjust the body angle and perform a variety of leg press variations. The range controller enables precise control over the range of motion, enhancing safety and targeting specific muscle groups, while accommodating the users with different flexibility levels or injury concerns. Further, the adjustable seat with a sliding unit can ensure a personalized fit by allowing the users to modify the seat position according to their body size and preferred exercise posture, addressing anatomical differences and ensuring optimal comfort and alignment. Combining, the said features make the apparatus more adaptable, effective, and user-friendly, addressing limitations such as fixed movement paths, lack of exercise variety, and insufficient customization options inherent in conventional and existing machines.

[0033] According to an embodiment, an exercise apparatus configured for open chain leg press and closed chain leg press exercises, comprising: (i) a base structure, comprising: a set of parallel longitudinal members; and a transverse member connecting an end of each of the longitudinal members; (ii) a movable platform coupled to the base structure; and a seat assembly positioned in front of the movable platform.

[0034] Each of the longitudinal members includes a pair / set of slant member extending vertically and configured to connect the seat assembly over the base structure. Each set of slant members further comprises a first slant member and a second slant member, wherein the second slant member is shorter than the first slant member, and wherein each of the slant members are configured to secure the seat assembly in an inclined position with the base structure.

[0035] The movable platform is configured to move in a forward and backward direction to facilitate knee and hip extension exercises.

[0036] The seat assembly comprises a seat; and a backrest attached to the seat, wherein an angle of inclination of the backrest is adjustable via an adjustable mechanism. The adjustable mechanism includes: (i) a set of brackets; (ii) a pivot bar, wherein the pivot bar is pivotally connected to a first bracket and slidably connected to a second bracket via a locking member, and wherein the locking member includes a series of holes that facilitate incremental adjustments to an angle of the backrest; and (iii) a locking pin configured to engage with a hole in the series of holes to secure the backrest in place at a desired angle. The seat assembly further includes a sliding unit configured to facilitate sliding of the seat in an upward and downward direction. The sliding unit includes: (i) a set of tracks; and (ii) one or more sliders that slide along the tracks to facilitate vertical movement of the seat.

[0037] In an embodiment, the exercise apparatus can also include a first range controller configured on the platform to regulate or limit a range of motion of the platform. The first range controller includes: a set of blocking tracks; a blocking member configured over the set of blocking tracks, wherein the blocking member further includes a linear track to guide the platform in a single direction; and a locking bar configured for slidable coupling to the linear track.

[0038] The exercise apparatus further includes a first weight stack connected to the seat assembly via a cable and pulley system, wherein the first weight stack is configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing leg press exercises. The first weight stack includes a plurality of first weight plates stacked vertically on first guide rails; and a first weight selector pin for selecting a desired weight.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the exercise apparatus further includes a second weight stack connected to the platform via a cable and pulley system, wherein the second weight stack is configured to provide additional resistance required during leg press exercises. The second weight stack includes a plurality of second weight plates stacked vertically on second guide rails, with a second weight selector pin for selecting a desired weight.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the exercise apparatus also includes a second range controller for the first weight stack, wherein the second range controller is configured to control a range of sliding of the seat assembly, and wherein the second range controllercomprises a blocking member configured above the weight selector pin of the first weight stack for sliding movement in a blocking member track.

[0041] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus 100 of the present invention to facilitate open chain leg press exercises combined with closed chain leg press exercise, which includes a base structure 102, a movable platform 104 (simply referred as platform hereinafter) coupled to the base structure 102, and a seat assembly 106 positioned spaced apart in front of the movable platform 104. The base structure 102 can include a set of parallel longitudinal members 102a-l, 102a-2 (collectively referred as 102a hereinafter), and a transverse member 102b connecting ends of the longitudinal members 102a-l, 102a-2. Each longitudinal member 102a can include a set of slant members 102c- 1, 102c-2 extending vertically and configured to connect the seat assembly 106 over the base structure 102. The set of slant members 102c-l, 102c-2 can include a first slant member 102c-l and a second slant member 102c-2 being shorter than the first slant member 102c-l to secure the seat assembly 106 in an inclined position with the base structure 102. In an embodiment, the base structure 102 can be made from material selected from but not limited to heavy-duty steel, high-strength aluminum, and the like, to ensure durability and stability of the base structure. The longitudinal members 102a-l, 102a-2, the transverse member 102b, and the slant members 102c-l, 102c-2 are generally designed with a robust rectangular tube structure that can bear weight loads and stress.

[0042] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes the movable platform 104 inclined at an angle ranging from 20 to 30 degrees with a ground surface or with the base structure 102. The platform 104 is attached to the base structure 102 via a support frame 118. The platform 104 can be positioned such that when the user sits on a seat 106a, the user can be facing the platform 104. The platform 104 can be placed vertically with respect to the base structure. The movable platform 104 is designed to move in a forward and a backward direction to facilitate knee and hip extension exercises. When the user presses his legs forward against the platform 104, the platform 104 displaces in the forward direction. This simulates the open chain knee exercise, where feet of the user is involved in the movement, thereby allowing for knee extension. As the platform 104 returns back to its initial position .i.e. in backward direction, it simulates the closed chain knee exercise,where the feet of the user are fixed, and the backward movement involves lower body exercise. In an embodiment, the platform 104 can be made of material selected from but not limited to a group consisting of: steel, aluminum, rubber, High-Density Plastic, and the like. In some embodiments, the surface of the platform 104 can be textured to prevent the feet from slipping during the exercise, thereby ensuring better traction and stability.

[0043] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 of the present invention can include the seat assembly 106 configured to accommodate the user while performing exercises. The seat assembly 106 can include the seat 106a and a backrest 106b attached to the seat 106a. The backrest 106b can be adjustable, allowing the user to change its angle to suit his exercise needs and comfort. Inclination of the backrest 106b can be adjusted by an adjustable mechanism 116 which include a set of bracket 116a-l, 116a-2, and a pivot bar 116b pivotally connected to a first bracket 116a and slidably connected to a second bracket 116a-2 via a locking member 116c. The locking member 116c can include a series of holes 120 that can allow for incremental adjustments of the angle of the backrest 106b. Each hole 120 represent a different angle setting for the backrest 106b and / or seat 106a. Further, a locking pin 122 can be configured to engage with any of the holes 122 on the pivot bar 116b to secure it in place once the desired angle can be selected. In some embodiments, the locking pin 122 can be a spring-loaded pin that can fit into one of the holes 120 to lock the pivot bar 116b at the desired angle. In some embodiments, the locking pin 122 can be a removable pin that can be manually fitted into the hole 120. In alternate embodiment, the locking pin 122 can be replaced by a lever or latch. In some embodiments, the holes 120 can be replaced by pogo pins which can align and lock with a hollow slot in the pivot bar 116b automatically without any manual intervention.

[0044] In an embodiment, the seat assembly 106 can include a sliding unit 108 configured to facilitate sliding of the seat 106a in an upward and downward direction, thereby ensuring that the user is in optimal position relative to the platform. The sliding unit 108 can be designed to adjust vertical position of the seat 106a. The vertical position adjustment can facilitate accommodating different body sizes and ensuring proper exercise form and alignment. The sliding unit 108 can include a set of tracks 108a-l, 108a-2 and sliders 108b-l, 108b-2 that slides along the tracks 108a-l, 108a-2 to facilitate vertical movement of the seat 106a. The sliders 108b-l, 108b-2 can be cylindrical rods over whichthe sliders 108b-l, 108b-2 can glide. The sliders 108b-l , 108b-2 can be made of material selected from but not limited to High-Density Polyethylene, aluminum, nylon, rubber, and the like.

[0045] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary rear view of the movable platform 104. Referring to FIG. IB, the apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 110 configured on the platform 104 to regulate or limit range of motion of the moving platform. The first range controller 110 can prevent excessive movement of the platform 104 in any direction that can lead to discomfort or injury to the user. Further, incorporation of the range controller 110 can enable the user to control his exercise intensity along with range of motion. In an embodiment, the range controller 110 can include a set of blocking tracks HOd, and a blocking member HOe configured over the set of blocking tracks HOd. The blocking member can include a linear track 110a configured over the support frame 118 to guide the platform 104 in a single direction. Further, a plurality of slots 110b are designed to provide pre-defined range of motion. The slots 110b can have specific positions that limit the movement of the platform 104. A locking bar 110c can be slidably coupled to the linear track 110a of the range controller 110. To secure the adjusted position, the locking bar 110c can be slid along the linear track and locked in a selected position by engaging the locking bar 110c in the slot among the plurality of slots provided in the linear track 110a. Further, the apparatus 100 can include a set of shoulder pads 124 configured over the backrest 106b. The shoulder pads 124 can be configured to support the body of the user while exercising, specifically when the body moves upward.

[0046] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first weight stack 112 connected to the seat assembly 106 via a cable and pulley system. The first weight stack 112 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance required while performing leg press exercises. The first weight stack 112 can include a plurality of first weight plates stacked vertically on first guide rails, with a first selector pin to choose the desired weight.

[0047] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second weight stack 114 connected to the movable platform 104 via a cable and pulley system. The second weight stack 114 can be configured to provide additional resistance required during leg press exercises. The second weight stack 114 can include a plurality of second weight platesstacked vertically on second guide rails, with a second selector pin to choose the desired weight.

[0048] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second range controller (not shown) for the first weight stack 112 can be configured to control range of sliding of the seat 106a. The second range controller (not shown) can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the first weight stack 112 for sliding movement in a blocking member track. The blocking member track can be located parallel to a weight stack track. The blocking member can include a lock to lock the blocking member in a selected position above the weight stack such that when the first weight stack 112 is lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the first weight stack 112 is restricted by the blocking member, thereby restricting the sliding motion of the seat 106a connected to the first weight stack 112.Exercise Sequence:

[0049] To start performing the exercise, the user sits on the seat 106a and the platform 104 can be tilted at an angle approximately 20 to 30 degrees in a retracted position. The user begins with a deep flexion position .i.e. thighs of the user are close to his torso, and knees are bent. Thereafter, the user presses his legs forward against the tilted platform 104. This action involves extending the knees and hips, pushing the platform 104 away from his body. As the user presses the platform 104 in a forward direction, his legs move forward. As the user presses the platform 104, the platform 104 moves forward. The tilt of the platform 104 influences the biomechanics of the movement, shifting the angle at which the resistance is applied.

[0050] When the user reaches the end of the pressing movement, the platform 104 stops moving forward due to the limit applied by the range controller 110 to the range of motion to the platform 104. Upon reaching the end of the pressing or forward movement, the user’s body starts to move up due to sliding of the seat 106a by the sliding unit 108. The shoulder pads 124 provide support to the body of the user, as the body moves upward. The range controller 110 restricts the forward movement of the platform 104. After reaching the end of the pressing phase and the body has moved up, the user returns to the starting position. This involves reversing the leg press motion. The user’s legs bend again as they pull back against the platform 104, which moves back to its original position.During this phase, the user's hips and knees return to the deep flexion position as the platform 104 moves back. This completes the cycle of the exercise.

[0051] During the pressing phase, the user's body weight is partially supported by the platform 104, so the effective weight the user feels is less. During the knee extension, the weight supported by the body is reduced as the resistance is partially offset by the platform's mechanical setup.

[0052] As can be appreciated, the proposed apparatus 100 of the present invention can offer enhanced versatility, customization, and user comfort by integrating several advanced features. The moving platform 104 enables adjustable exercise angles and a range of motion, allowing users to perform a variety of leg press exercises and target different muscle groups effectively. The range controller 110 provides precise control over the movement path, accommodating individual needs and minimizing discomfort or risk of injury. Additionally, the adjustable seat 106a and sliding unit 108 ensure that the apparatus 100 can be tailored to different body sizes and anatomical variations, promoting proper alignment and a more personalized workout experience. These innovations collectively address the limitations of conventional and existing leg press machines, making the proposed design a more adaptable and user-friendly option for comprehensive lower body training.

[0053] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability.

[0054] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An exercise apparatus configured for open chain leg press and closed chain leg press exercises, comprising: a base structure, comprising: a set of parallel longitudinal members; and a transverse member connecting an end of each of the longitudinal members; a movable platform coupled to the base structure; and a seat assembly positioned in front of the platform.

2. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein each longitudinal member includes a pair / set of slant member extending vertically and configured to connect the seat assembly over the base structure.

3. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 2, wherein each set of slant members comprises a first slant member and a second slant member, wherein the second slant member is shorter than the first slant member, and wherein each of the slant members are configured to secure the seat assembly in an inclined position with the base structure.

4. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the platform is configured to move in a forward and backward direction to facilitate knee and hip extension exercises.

5. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the seat assembly comprises a seat; and a backrest attached to the seat, wherein an angle of inclination of the backrest is adjustable via an adjustable mechanism.

6. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 5, wherein the adjustable mechanism includes: a set of brackets; a pivot bar, wherein the pivot bar is pivotally connected to a first bracket and slidably connected to a second bracket via a locking member, and wherein the lockingmember includes a series of holes that facilitate incremental adjustments to an angle of the backrest; and a locking pin configured to engage with a hole in the series of holes to secure the backrest in place at a desired angle.

7. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 5, wherein the seat assembly includes a sliding unit configured to facilitate sliding of the seat in an upward and downward direction, wherein the sliding unit includes: a set of tracks; one or more sliders that slide along the tracks to facilitate vertical movement of the seat.

8. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 1, further comprising a first range controller configured on the platform to regulate or limit a range of motion of the platform.

9. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 8, wherein the first range controller includes: a set of blocking tracks; a blocking member configured over the set of blocking tracks, wherein the blocking member further includes a linear track to guide the platform in a single direction; and a locking bar configured for slidable coupling to the linear track.

10. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 1, further including a first weight stack connected to the seat assembly via a cable and pulley system, wherein the first weight stack is configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing leg press exercises.

11. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 10, wherein the first weight stack includes a plurality of first weight plates stacked vertically on first guide rails; and a first weight selector pin for selecting a desired weight.

12. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 10, further comprising a second weight stack connected to the platform via a cable and pulley system, wherein the second weight stack is configured to provide additional resistance required during leg press exercises.

13. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the second weight stack includes a plurality of second weight plates stacked vertically on second guide rails, with a second weight selector pin for selecting a desired weight.

14. The exercise apparatus according to Claim 10, further comprising a second range controller for the first weight stack, wherein the second range controller is configured to control a range of sliding of the seat assembly, and wherein the second range controller comprises a blocking member configured above the weight selector pin of the first weight stack for sliding movement in a blocking member track.

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