Hamstring and trunk extension

Abstract

An apparatus configured to facilitate effective trunk and hamstring extension exercises. The apparatus includes a base platform with a bench that supports the user's pelvis for trunk extensions and a mechanism for performing hamstring curls. The apparatus features two resistance pads among which a first resistance pad engages the user's upper body for trunk extensions, while a second resistance pad targets the calves for hamstring curls. Each of the first and second resistance pads is connected to a set of weight stacks via a cable-and-pulley mechanism, allowing users to adjust resistance levels. The apparatus enables users to perform a combination of trunk extension exercise and posterior chain strengthening exercises, while enhancing the effectiveness of such exercises in a safe and reliable manner.

Description

AN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING HAMSTRING AND TRUNK EXTENSIONEXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present invention pertains to an apparatus for facilitating hamstring and trunk extension exercises.BACKGROUND

[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the present invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] The trunk muscles, which facilitate trunk flexion and extension, encompass both the back and abdominal muscles. For instance, during posterior trunk extension, the erector spine muscles are activated, filling the vertebral groove on either side of the spine. Lateral trunk flexion, whether to the right or left, involves key abdominal muscles such as the external and internal obliques, the transverse abdominis, and the rectus abdominis, along with the latissimus dorsi and other supporting trunk and abdominal muscles. These trunk muscles can be strengthened through either contraction or release while bearing a load.

[0004] Various exercise devices have been developed in the past for allowing users to perform core-strengthening exercises. A typical core-strengthening equipment often includes an abdominal board designed for working the abdominal muscles. During use, the user lies on the abdominal board and alternates bending their trunk. This method requires significant effort and may not be suitable for individuals who are overweight or elderly.

[0005] Historically, exercises aimed at strengthening and toning the lower back and core of users have been employed to enhance mobility and flexibility, benefiting both athletic performance and daily activities. Additionally, a robust lower back and core can help prevent or alleviate back pain by providing better support through increased strength. Conventional devices like the Roman chair are used for lower back exercises, where users lift and lower their upper bodies using their lower back muscles while positioned such that their legs are substantially fixed in position. These devices typically rely on the user’s body weight as resistance. However, this exercise often involves the upper body being tilted downward forextended periods, causing blood to flow towards the user’s head. Users must carefully employ proper techniques to avoid injury while using such equipment.

[0006] Existing trunk extension machines usually require users to keep their legs straight, which often results in locked knees. These machines enable users to bend their upper body forward over a resistance pad to perform the trunk extension exercise. The resistance pad is typically placed just above the user’s heels and in front of their pelvis and quadriceps. This positioning of the resistance pad can place additional stress on the user’s knee joints and meniscus, especially if the adjacent muscles are not actively supporting the knees. Additionally, the existing trunk extension machines fail to engage the hamstrings and gluteal muscles of the user, when completing the trunk extension exercise. This also contributes to excessive pressure at the user’s knee joints.

[0007] Hamstring curl machines are also widely recognized and generally operate independently from trunk extension machines. These machines usually feature a bench where the user lies face down in a prone position. Such machines typically include a resistance pad that engages the user’s hamstring muscles. During the hamstring curl exercise, as the user rotates their lower legs at the knees against the resistance of the pad while keeping the upper body still, the resistance pad may create extra strain on the user’s knee joints.SUMMARY

[0008] Known trunk extension machines and hamstring curl machines suffer from major drawbacks, in that they lack sufficient management of loads, especially at knee joints of users, fail to provide an option to effectively engage muscle groups of upper body as well as legs of the users. Therefore, there is a need to address the drawbacks and shortcomings of conventional exercise equipment by developing improved weight training machines that assist users to perform both trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises while adequately toning and strengthening the abdominal muscles as well as posterior chain muscles of the users.

[0009] A general objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that enables users to perform trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises both at the same time.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus designed to safely and effectively tone and strengthen muscle groups of both the upper body as well as the legs of the users.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to enable users to perform trunk extension exercises as well as hamstring extension / curl exercises using a single exercising apparatus.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to enable simultaneous engagement of the posterior chain of the upper and lower body of the users.

[0013] The present invention relates to an apparatus designed to facilitate the efficient and reliable performance of trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises. The apparatus features a base platform equipped with a bench or seat that allows a user to rest their pelvis or torso in a prone position and extend their upper body relative to a horizontal plane, enabling effective trunk extension exercises. Additionally, the bench is configured to support the user’s pelvis during a hamstring curl exercise, where the user pivotally rotates their lower legs about their knees.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first resistance pad positioned relative to the bench such that the first resistance pad can move between a retracted position and an extended position based on a pushing load applied by the user. In the retracted position, the first resistance pad may be configured to engage the back of the user’s upper body when the user rests their pelvis on the bench in a prone position. The user can then rotate their upper body about their torso to move the first resistance pad towards its extended position, thereby performing the torso extension exercise.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may feature a first weight stack connected to the first resistance pad via a cable-and-pulley mechanism. The first weight stack may include a plurality of weights, allowing the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance provided by the first resistance pad during the torso extension exercise. By choosing a desired weight, the user can set the amount of resistance the first resistance pad offers for its movement from the retracted to the extended position. The first weight stack enables the user to exert the pushing load that is greater than the resistance offered by the first resistance pad, thereby effectively strengthening the user’s abdominal muscles.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first range controller designed to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the first resistance pad. The first range controller helps prevent excessive movement that could lead to discomfort or injury for the user. Additionally, the first range controller allows users to customize their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the first resistance pad.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a second resistance pad positioned relative to the bench in the opposite direction from the first resistance pad. This second resistance pad can move between a retracted position and an extended position based on the pushing load applied by the user. When in the retracted position, the second resistance pad is designed to engage the user’s calves while they rest their pelvis onthe bench in a prone position. The user can then rotate their legs around their knees to move the second resistance pad towards its extended position, thus performing the hamstring curl or extension exercise.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may also include a second weight stack connected to the second resistance pad through a cable-and- pulley system. The second weight stack includes multiple weights, allowing the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance offered by the second resistance pad during the hamstring extension exercise. By choosing a desired weight, the user can easily set the level of resistance for the movement of the second resistance pad from the retracted to the extended position. The second weight stack enables the user to apply a pushing force greater than the resistance of the second resistance pad, thereby effectively strengthening the posterior chain muscles, including the calves, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, latissimus dorsi, and erector spine muscles.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a second range controller designed to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the second resistance pad. The second range controller helps prevent excessive movement that could lead to discomfort or injury for the user. Additionally, the second range controller allows users to customize their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the second resistance pad.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first weight stack and the second weight stack may be integrated together to enable the user to customize the resistance offered by both the first and the second resistance pads using a single weight stack.

[0021] 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

[0022] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus for facilitating trunk and hamstring extension exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary perspective view of the apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.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 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 spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0026] The trunk muscles, essential for trunk flexion and extension, include both back and abdominal muscles. For example, during posterior trunk extension, the erector spine muscles, which fill the vertebral groove alongside the spine, are activated. Lateral trunk flexion involves key abdominal muscles such as the external and internal obliques, transverse abdominis, and rectus abdominis, as well as the latissimus dorsi and other supportive muscles. Strengthening these trunk muscles can be achieved through contraction or release under load. Various exercise devices have been created to enhance core strength, typically featuring an abdominal board for trunk flexion exercises. However, these devices may be challenging for overweight or elderly users. Traditional devices like the Roman chair aim to improve lower back strength and flexibility but often require users to keep their legs fixed, which can stress the knee joints and require careful technique to avoid injury. Similarly, hamstring curl machines, which engage the hamstring muscles while the user lies face down, may also place additional strain on the knee joints due to the resistance applied.

[0027] Embodiments described herein relate to an apparatus that enables users to perform a combination of exercises, such as trunk extension exercise and posterior chain strengthening exercises, while enhancing the effectiveness of such exercises in a safe and reliable manner. The apparatus is also configured to facilitate multiple exercises, engaging the upper body, glutes, and legs for comprehensive muscle development.

[0028] FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary perspective views of an apparatus 100 configured to facilitate trunk and hamstring extension exercises. The apparatus 100 enhances the efficiency and reliability of trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises. The apparatus 100 includes a base platform 102 and a bench or seat 104 mounted on the base platform 102. The bench 104is positioned on the base platform 102 to allow a user to rest at least their pelvis or torso in a prone position. The bench 104 supports the pelvis, enabling the user to rotate their upper body relative to a horizontal plane for effective trunk extension exercises. Additionally, the bench 104 supports the user’s pelvis during hamstring curl exercises, where the user rotates their lower legs around their knees. In an exemplary embodiment, the bench 104 is configured to allow the user to perform both trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises either together or separately, based on user preferences. In an exemplary embodiment, the bench 104 may be equipped with a cushion designed to support the user’s pelvis for increased comfort.

[0029] The apparatus 100 may include a first resistance pad 106 positioned relative to the bench 104 such that the first resistance pad 106 is spaced apart from the bench 104 in a horizontal direction. The first resistance pad 106 is configured to move between a retracted and an extended position based on the pushing load applied by the user. In the retracted position as shown in FIG. 1, the first resistance pad 106 is adapted to engage the back of the user’s upper body while they rest their pelvis on the bench 104 in a prone position. The user can then rotate their upper body around their torso, applying the pushing load to move the first resistance pad 106 towards its extended position as clearly shown in FIG. 2, thereby performing the torso extension exercise.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, the first resistance pad 106 may be offset from the bench 104 in a vertical direction, so that in its retracted position, the first resistance pad 106 allows the user to comfortably move their body relative to the first resistance pad 106, ensuring efficient engagement of the pad with the user’s back. The first resistance pad 106 may also include a cushioning layer to enhance the user’s comfort during the trunk extension exercise.

[0031] The apparatus 100 may include a first weight stack 110 connected to the first resistance pad 106 via a cable-and-pulley system. This weight stack consists of several weights, allowing the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance provided by the first resistance pad 106 during the torso extension exercise. By choosing the desired weight, the user can control the level of resistance that the first resistance pad 106 offers as it moves from the retracted to the extended position. The first weight stack 110 enables the user to apply a pushing load greater than the resistance of the first resistance pad 106, effectively strengthening the user’s core and abdominal muscles.

[0032] The apparatus 100 may include a first range controller adapted to adjust or limit the range of motion of the first resistance pad 106 between the retracted position and the extended position. The first range controller may be adapted to prevent excessive movement of the first resistance pad 106 beyond the corresponding retracted and extended positions that could leadto discomfort or injury. The first range controller may be configured to allow the user to tailor their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the first resistance pad 106. By providing precise control over the range of motion of the first resistance pad 106, the first range controller enhance safety, target specific muscle groups, and accommodate users with varying flexibility levels or injury concerns. In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller may be placed on the first weight stack 110, or at an adjustment point where the user can easily and conveniently adjust and the position of the first resistance pad 106.

[0033] The apparatus 100 includes a second resistance pad 108 positioned relative to the bench 104 such that the second resistance pad 108 is spaced apart from the bench 104 in a direction opposite to the first resistance pad 106. The second resistance pad 108 can move between a retracted and an extended position based on the pushing load applied by the user. In its retracted position as shown in FIG. 1, the second resistance pad 108 is configured to engage the user’s calves while they rest their pelvis on the bench 104 in the prone position. The user can then rotate their legs around their knees to move the second resistance pad 108 towards its extended position as shown in FIG. 2, thereby performing the hamstring curl or extension exercise.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the second resistance pad 108 may be offset from the bench 104 in the vertical direction, such that in its retracted position, the second resistance pad 108 allows the user to comfortably move their legs relative to the second resistance pad 108, ensuring efficient engagement of the pad with the calves of the user. The second resistance pad 108 may be provided with a cushioning layer to enhance the user’s comfort during the hamstring curl or extension exercise.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 may also include a second weight stack 112, as clearly shown in FIG. 1, connected to the second resistance pad 108 via a cable- and-pulley system. The second weight stack 112 may include multiple weights, allowing the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance provided by the second resistance pad 108 during the hamstring extension exercise. By choosing the desired weight, the user can easily set the resistance level for the movement of the second resistance pad 108 from its retracted to its extended position. The second weight stack 112 enables the user to exert a pushing force greater than the resistance of the second resistance pad 108, effectively strengthening the posterior chain muscle groups, including the calves, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, latissimus dorsi, and erector spine muscles.

[0036] The apparatus 100 may feature a second range controller designed to adjust or limit the movement of the second resistance pad 108 between its retracted and extended positions.The second range controller may have a similar configuration as the first range controller, and may be adapted to prevent excessive movement of the second resistance pad 108 that could cause discomfort or injury. The second range controller allows users to customize their exercise intensity by altering the range of motion of the second resistance pad 108. By enabling precise control over this movement, the second range controller enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with different flexibility levels or injury concerns. In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller can be located on the second weight stack 112 or at an easily accessible adjustment location for user convenience.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, as clearly shown in FIG. 2, the first and the second resistance pads 106, 108 may be configured to enable the user to firstly perform knee flexion or hamstring curl by moving the second resistance pad 108, to engage the posterior chain of the lower body before transitioning to trunk extension by moving the first resistance pad 106, which activates and loads the muscles on the rear portion of the user’s upper body.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the first weight stack 110 and the second weight stack 112 may be integrated to allow the user to adjust the resistance offered by both the first and second resistance pads 106 and 108 using a single weight stack.

[0039] Thus, the apparatus 100 enables users to perform both trunk extension exercises and posterior chain strengthening exercises with enhanced effectiveness. The apparatus 100 is designed to safely and effectively tone and strengthen multiple muscle groups in the upper body, torso and legs of the users. As a result, the apparatus 100 allows the user to modify the exercises to make their movements more comprehensive by engaging and connecting all the muscles along the backline of the body, i.e., both the upper and lower rear body regions, rather than only focusing on the muscle groups in the upper or lower back individually.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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 apparatus for facilitating trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises, comprising: a. a base platform (102); b. a bench (104) mounted on the base platform (102) and configured to support a user’s pelvis in a prone position; c. a first resistance pad (106) positioned relative to the bench (104), wherein the resistance pad is configured to engage a back of a user’s upper body and allow rotation of the user’s trunk for a torso extension movement; and d. a first weight stack (110) connected to the first resistance pad (106) to provide adjustable resistance for the torso extension movement.

2. The apparatus of Claim 1, further comprising a second resistance pad (108) positioned relative to the bench (104) in an opposite direction from the first resistance pad (106), wherein the second resistance pad is configured to engage a user’s calves and allow rotation of the user’s lower legs about the user’s knees for a hamstring curl or extension exercise.

3. The apparatus of Claim 2, further comprising a second weight stack (112) connected to the second resistance pad (108) to provide adjustable resistance for the hamstring curl or extension movement.

4. The apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the first resistance pad (106) and the second resistance pad (108) are configured to enable the user to perform the trunk extension and hamstring curl exercises sequentially or simultaneously, utilizing the same bench (104).

5. The apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the first weight stack (110) and the second weight stack (112) are integrated to enable the user to adjust resistance of both the first and second resistance pads (106, 108) using a single weight stack.

6. The apparatus of Claim 1, further comprising a first range controller configured to adjust or restrict a range of motion of the first resistance pad (106).

7. The apparatus of Claim 2, further comprising a second range controller configured to adjust or restrict a range of motion of the second resistance pad (108).

8. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the first resistance pad (106) is connected to the first weight stack (110) via a cable-and-pulley system.

9. The apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the second resistance pad (108) is connected to the second weight stack (112) via a cable-and-pulley system.

10. The apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the apparatus is configured to enable the user to: a. perform knee flexion, utilizing the second resistance pad (108) to engage and load a posterior chain of a user’s lower body; and b. subsequently transition to trunk extension, utilizing the first resistance pad (106) to activate and load muscles on a rear portion of the user’s upper body.

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