Exercise machine for effective engagement of multiple muscle groups of a user

Abstract

An exercise machine designed to integrate leg press and trunk extension exercises, enhancing cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility through a compact and efficient setup. The exercise machine features a base platform, a vertical column with a footrest, and guide rails that allow a movable seat for users to perform leg press exercises. As users push the footrest away, the seat moves along the guide rails, enabling leg press exercises. The machine includes a backrest that can pivot between two inclined positions, allowing users to engage their abdominal and back muscles while performing trunk extension exercises. With range controllers for both the seat and backrest, users can customize their exercise intensity and prevent discomfort, making the exercise machine effective for simultaneously targeting multiple muscle groups and promoting a comprehensive workout experience.

Description

EXERCISE MACHINE FOR EFFECTIVE ENGAGEMENT OF MULTIPLE MUSCLE GROUPS OF A USERTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. More specifically, the present invention pertains to an exercise machine configured to integrate leg press exercises with trunk exercise exercises, for effective engagement of multiple muscle groups of users.BACKGROUND

[0002] The fitness industry has evolved significantly, with an increasing emphasis on the efficiency and effectiveness of workout routines. Among the diverse range of exercises, leg presses and trunk exercises are fundamental for building lower body and core strength, respectively. Leg presses primarily target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles, while trunk exercises engage the abdominal and back muscles, playing a crucial role in enhancing overall stability, posture, and functional movement. However, traditional exercise machines often isolate these exercises, necessitating the use of separate machines or equipment for each, which can hinder workout efficiency. Transitioning between machines can disrupt a user’s flow, consume valuable time, and lead to decreased motivation.

[0003] This segmented approach may also result in muscle imbalances, as users may focus more on one area while neglecting another. For instance, a user may perform extensive leg presses but underutilize trunk exercises, leading to disproportionate strength development. This not only affects athletic performance but can also increase the risk of injury due to muscle imbalances.

[0004] Conventional leg press machines enable users to perform seated leg presses through a horizontal motion, where they push a platform away from their body using their legs. Such exercise machines typically feature adjustable settings for seat position and foot placement, allowing users to customize their resistance training according to their individual needs. Resistance is typically supplied by a weight stack or plates, and the exercise machines facilitate a controlled movement path for the legs. However, the existing exercise machines present several drawbacks, in that the fixed path of motion can limit the natural range of movement and compromise joint stability. When users are confined to a rigid horizontal position, it may increase pressure on the lower back, particularly if their form is not optimal. This can lead to discomfort and potentially diminish the quality of functional movements. As a result, usersmay not fully engage the intended muscle groups or could be at risk of injury, underscoring the need for more versatile and user-friendly exercise equipment.SUMMARY

[0005] Recognizing the need for a more integrated approach to strength training, there is a growing demand for exercise equipment that enables the simultaneous engagement of multiple muscle groups. The ability to perform leg presses and trunk exercises within a single machine can streamline workout routines, allowing users to maximize their training efficiency and achieve a well-rounded fitness regimen.

[0006] The present invention presents an exercise machine that seeks to address the aforesaid shortcomings and deficiencies associated with conventional exercise equipment by introducing an exercise machine specifically designed to integrate leg press and trunk exercises. This innovative exercise machine allows users to seamlessly combine the benefits of both these exercises by effectively engaging various muscle groups in a single workout session. By promoting a holistic approach to strength training, the exercise machine of the present invention not only enhances user satisfaction and motivation but also contributes to better overall fitness outcomes. This integrated solution addresses the challenges faced by users in conventional gym settings, ultimately supporting a more efficient and effective workout experience.

[0007] An objective of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to facilitate both leg press and trunk extension exercises, integrating the benefits of these exercises.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to enable users to perform a combination of leg press and trunk extension exercises, which allows the users to efficiently engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to enhance the overall user experience by allowing for a more comprehensive workout.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to integrate multiple muscle groups, such as, abdominal muscles, quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteal muscles and back muscles, to enable increased muscle engagement across the entire body of users, leading to greater strength gains and improved cardiovascular health.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of different heights, body types, and fitness levels.

[0012] The present invention relates to an exercise machine designed to enable a user to integrate leg press exercises and trunk extension exercises. The exercise machine is particularly suitable for users seeking to enhance cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility by performing a variety of full-body exercises in a compact, integrated and efficient manner. The exercise machine includes a base platform that can be positioned on a ground surface. The exercise machine includes a vertical column supporting a footrest that can allow users to rest their foot thereon during the leg press exercise. The vertical column may be coupled to a first end of the base platform. The exercise machine includes one or more guide rails arranged substantially parallel to the base platform, such that the one or more guide rails extend from the vertical column and terminate at a second end of the base platform.

[0013] The exercise machine includes a seat configured to move between the first end and the second end of the base platform along the one or more guide rails. The seat allows a user to sit thereon and place their foot on the footrest located at the vertical column, to push the footrest away from their body using their legs to result in movement of the seat towards the second end of the base platform. As a result, the exercise machine enables the user to perform leg press exercises. The seat may be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, enabling users to easily customize their seating positions.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the seat may be configured such that the seat is biased to remain at the first end of the base platform, and move towards the second end of the base platform only when the user pushes the footrest away from their body by engaging their quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. This results in linear movement of the seat towards the second end of the base platform and allows the user to perform the torso extension exercises.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the seat may be operatively coupled to a first weight stack that is configured to allow the user to adjust the resistance for movement of the seat between the first end and the second end of the base platform, as the user performs the leg press exercise. The first weight stack enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the resistance offered against the movement of the seat.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the exercise machine may include a first range controller designed to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the seat along the one or more guide rails. The first range controller helps prevent excessive rotationalmovement of the seat that could lead to discomfort or injury for the user. Additionally, the first range controller allows the user to customize their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the seat.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the exercise machine may include a backrest adapted to support the back of a user occupying the seat. The backrest may be configured to hingedly rotate with respect to the seat about a pivot axis between a first inclined position and a second inclined position. The backrest may be adapted such that the first inclined position and the second inclined position thereof is easily adjustable by the user.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the backrest may be configured such that the backrest is biased to remain in the first inclined position, and move towards the second inclined position only when the user pushes the backrest through their torso by engaging their abdominal and back muscles. This results in pivot movement of the backrest towards the second inclined position, and allows the user to perform torso extension exercises.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the backrest may be operatively coupled to a second weight stack that is configured to allow the user to adjust the resistance for pivot movement of the backrest between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, as the user performs the trunk extension exercise. The second weight stack enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the resistance offered against the rotational movement of the backrest.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the exercise machine may include a second range controller designed to adjust or restrict the range of rotational motion of the backrest about the pivot axis. The second range controller helps prevent excessive rotational movement of the backrest that could lead to discomfort or injury for the user. The second range controller also allows the user to customize their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the backrest.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the exercise machine enables the user to perform the leg press exercise while moving the backrest between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, thereby integrating the leg press exercise with the trunk extension exercise. This results in an increase in effectiveness of the workout performed by the user, by simultaneously engaging multiple muscle groups, thereby facilitating a more comprehensive and functional workout as compared to conventional exercise equipment.

[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] 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.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary view of an exercise machine configured to facilitate a user to integrate leg press exercises with trunk extension exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2-6 illustrate another exemplary views of the exercise machine in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] 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.

[0027] Exercise machines, including leg press machines and trunk extension machines, are popular for targeting multiple muscle groups and enhancing physical fitness. However, conventional exercise machines often isolate the exercises, requiring users to switch between different machines, which can disrupt workout flow and lead to decreased motivation. This segmented approach may cause muscle imbalances, as users might focus excessively on one area while neglecting another, increasing the risk of injury. Conventional leg press machines, while adjustable for individual needs, limit the natural range of motion and can compromise joint stability, potentially causing discomfort and diminishing functional movement quality.

[0028] Embodiments described here pertain to an exercise machine that integrates both leg press and trunk extension exercises, providing a more comprehensive and functional workout by combining the benefits of these movements. This integration targets muscle groups in both the upper and lower body, aligning with optimal biomechanics and fostering improved movement patterns. Users can strengthen their leg and abdominal muscles simultaneously, with adjustable weight loads that cater to various fitness levels, enhancing versatility andpersonalization. The exercise machine is designed to efficiently engage multiple muscle groups at once, promoting overall strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, while being easily adjustable to suit different body types, heights, and fitness levels for an enhanced user experience.

[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary side view of an exercise machine 100 configured to facilitate leg press exercises in conjunction with simultaneous trunk extension exercises. The exercise machine 100 includes a base platform 102 adapted to be placed on a ground surface, and a vertical column 104 coupled to a first end 102-1 of the base platform 102. The vertical column 104 is equipped with a footrest 106 that can allow users to rest their foot thereon during the leg press exercise. In an exemplary embodiment, the footrest 106 may be movable in vertical as well as horizontal directions to enable users to easily customize position of the footrest 106 for optimal positioning of their foot during the exercise.

[0030] The exercise machine 100 includes one or more guide rails 108 arranged substantially parallel to the base platform 102. The guide rails 108 may be adapted to extend from the vertical column 104 and terminate at a second end 102-2 of the base platform 102. The exercise machine 100 also includes a seat 110 mounted on the guide rails 108 and configured to translate between the first end 102-1 and the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102 along the guide rails 108. The seat 110 may be provided with a cushioning layer to allow a user to sit thereon and place their foot on the footrest 106 located at the vertical column 104, to push the footrest 106 away from their body using their legs to result in movement of the seat 110 towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102. To this effect, the exercise machine 100 enables the user to perform leg press exercises. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 110 may be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, enabling users to easily customize their seating positions. The seat 110 may be configured such that the seat 110 is biased to remain at the first end 102-1 of the base platform 102, and move towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102 only when the user pushes the footrest 106 away from their body by engaging their quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. This results in linear movement of the seat 110 towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102 and allows the user to perform the torso extension exercises.

[0031] The seat 110 may be operatively coupled to a first weight stack 112 adapted to allow the user to adjust the resistance for movement of the seat 110 towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102, as they perform the leg press exercise. The first weight stack 112 enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the resistance offered against the linear movement of the seat 110 between the first end 102-1 and the secondend 102-2 of the base platform 102. The seat 110 may be operatively connected to the first weight stack 112 through a cable and pulley mechanism, allowing the seat 110 to remain at the first end 102-1 of the base platform 102, and move towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102 only when a pushing load generated by the user during the leg press exercise is greater than the resistance offered by the pre-selected weight of the first weight stack 112.

[0032] The exercise machine 100 may include a first range controller 118 configured to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the seat 110 along the guide rails 108. The first range controller 118 is adapted to prevent excessive movement of the seat 110 that could lead to discomfort or injury for the user. Additionally, the first range controller 118 allows the user to customize their exercise intensity by modifying the range of motion of the seat 110. The exercise machine 100 may also include a lap band or seat belt designed to secure the hips of the user occupying the seat 110, to prevent any unwanted movement of the user during the leg press exercise. By providing precise control over the range of motion of the seat 110, the first range controller 118 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or injury concerns.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 118 may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member positioned over them. This blocking member includes a linear track mounted on a support frame to guide movement of the seat 110 along a linear path defined by the guide rails 108. The blocking member may also include a set of slots designed to define the range of motion of the seat 110 along the guide rails 108, with specific positions that limit movement of the seat 110. A locking bar may be slidably attached to the linear track and can be moved along the linear track to secure the adjusted position by engaging with one of the slots. During the leg press exercise, the first range controller 118 limits movement of the seat 110 between the first end 102-1 and the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102 when the user reaches the end of the range of motion of the leg twist exercise, to prevent excessive movement and unwanted motion.

[0034] The exercise machine 100 may include a backrest 114 adapted to support the back of a user while the user is seated on the seat 110. The backrest 114 may be configured to hingedly rotate with respect to the seat 110 about a pivot axis between a first inclined position, as shown in FIG. 1, and a second inclined position that is substantially parallel to the base platform 102, as shown in FIG. 2. The backrest 114 may be adapted such that the first inclined position and the second inclined position can be easily adjusted by the user before initiating the exercise. The backrest 114 may include a cushioning layer to improve comfortability of the user. The backrest 114 may be equipped with a set of shoulder support pads adapted to supportthe shoulders of the user during the exercise. The shoulder support pads may be adjustable in vertical as well as horizontal directions to provide the user with comfortable shoulder resting position on the backrest 114.

[0035] The backrest 114 may be configured such that the backrest 114 is biased to remain in the first inclined position and move towards the second inclined position only when the user pushes the backrest 114 through their torso by engaging their abdominal and back muscles. This results in pivot movement of the backrest 114 towards the second inclined position and allows the user to perform torso extension exercises by moving their lumbar and spinal column when the trunk of the user is raised upwards or moved downwards during movement of the backrest 114 between the first inclined position and the second inclined position.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the backrest 114 may be operatively coupled to a second weight stack 116 adapted to allow the user to adjust the resistance for moving the backrest 114 about the pivot axis, as they perform the trunk extension exercise. The second weight stack 116 enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the resistance offered to the backrest 114 for performing the trunk extension exercise. The backrest 114 may be operatively connected to the second weight stack 116 through a cable and pulley mechanism, allowing the backrest 114 to remain in the first inclined position, and hingedly rotate towards the second inclined position only when the user exerts a pushing load on the backrest 114 that is greater than the resistance offered by the pre-selected weight of the second weight stack 116.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the exercise machine 100 may include a second range controller 120 adapted to adjust or restrict the range of rotational motion of the backrest 114 along the pivot axis. The second range controller 120 is designed to prevent excessive movement of the backrest 114 between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, which could also cause discomfort or injury to the user. The second range controller may be configured to enable the user to customize their exercise intensity by adjusting the range of rotational motion of the backrest 114. In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 120 may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member positioned over them. This blocking member includes a curved track mounted on a support frame to guide movement of the backrest 114 along a curved path. The blocking member may also include a set of slots designed to define the range of rotational motion of the backrest 114 about the pivot axis, with specific positions that limit rotational movement of the backrest 114. A locking bar may be slidably attached to the curved track and can be moved along the curved track to secure the adjusted position by engaging with one of the slots. During the trunk extension exercise,the second range controller 120 limits rotational movement of the backrest 114 between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, when the user reaches the end of the range of motion of the torso extension exercise, to prevent excessive movement and unwanted motion.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the exercise machine 100 enables the user to perform the leg press exercise while moving the backrest 114 between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, thereby integrating the leg press exercise with the trunk extension exercise. This results in an increase in effectiveness of the workout performed by the user, by simultaneously engaging multiple muscle groups, thereby facilitating a more comprehensive and functional workout as compared to conventional exercise equipment. The seat 110 may be provided with a set of handles to enable the user to grip the handles during any of the leg press exercise and the trunk extension exercise.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 2, the second range controller 120 may restrict the backrest 114 in its first inclined position. The user can occupy the seat 110 and place their foot on the footrest 106 such that the user’s knees are being at a 90 degrees angle, while resting their back against the backrest 114. The user can then push the footrest 106 by engaging their quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles, while simultaneously pushing the backrest 114 by engaging their abdominal and back muscles. This results in movement of the seat 110 towards the second end 102-2 of the base platform 102, as well as pivot movement of the backrest 114 towards its second inclined position, as shown in FIG. 2, against the resistance offered by the first and second weight stacks 112 and 116. These combined movements effectively increase the engagement of the leg and upper body muscle groups, thereby integrating the leg press exercise with the torso extension exercise to provide an enhanced and functional full-body workout for the user.

[0040] When the backrest 114 is present in its second inclined position, as shown in FIG.2, the user can relieve the load on the backrest 114, allowing it to move back towards its first inclined position. Simultaneously, the user can reduce the pushing load on the footrest 106, enabling the seat 110 to retract towards the first end 102-1 of the base platform 102, thus completing one repetition of the integrated exercise. The user can then repeat the exercise by reapplying the pushing load on the footrest 106 with their legs, as well as on the backrest 114 with their torso. This repeated workout results in efficient strengthening and toning of multiple muscle groups in both the legs and upper body.

[0041] 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 inany 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.

[0042] 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 machine (100) for effective engagement of multiple muscle groups of a user, the exercise machine comprising:a. a base platform (102);b. a vertical column (104) coupled to the base platform (102), the vertical column (104) including a footrest (106) adapted to receive the feet of the user;c. at least one guide rail (108) coupled to the base platform (102) and extending from the vertical column (104); andd. a first weight stack (112) coupled to a seat (110) and configured to provide adjustable resistance against the movement of the seat (110) for a leg press exercise.

2. The exercise machine of Claim 1, wherein the seat (110) is coupled to the at least one guide rail (108), the seat (110) configured for movement resulting from the user pushing the footrest (106) away from the body using their legs.

3. The exercise machine of Claim 2, further comprising a backrest (114) adapted to support the back of the user occupying the seat (110), the backrest (114) configured to hingedly rotate with respect to the seat (110) about a pivot axis (115), wherein rotational movement is controllable by the user's torso, and wherein the exercise machine (100) is configured to enable the user to perform the leg press exercise while simultaneously moving the backrest (114) between the first inclined position and the second inclined position, thereby integrating the leg press exercise with the trunk extension exercise.

4. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, further comprising a second weight stack (116) operatively coupled to the backrest (114) and configured to provide adjustable resistance against the rotational movement of the backrest (114) for a trunk extension exercise.

5. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 2, further comprising a first range controller (118) designed to adjust or restrict the range of linear motion of the seat (110) along the at least one guide rail (108).

6. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, further comprising a second range controller (120) designed to adjust or restrict the range of rotational motion of the backrest (114) about the pivot axis (115).

7. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 2, wherein the seat (110) is adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions.

8. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, wherein the backrest (114) is configured for adjustment between the first inclined position and the second inclined position.

9. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, wherein the seat (110) is biased to remain at the first end of the base platform (102), and the backrest (114) is biased to remain in the first inclined position.

10. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, wherein the integrated exercise effectively engages a plurality of muscle groups comprising abdominal muscles, quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteal muscles, and back muscles.

11. The exercise machine (100) of Claim 3, further comprising a set of shoulder support pads (122) coupled to the backrest (114), wherein the shoulder support pads (122) are adjustable in at least a vertical direction to provide the user with a comfortable shoulder resting position.

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