An apparatus to perform hip shifts and transverse twist exercises

Abstract

An apparatus designed to facilitate performing a combination of hip shift and transverse twist exercises to provide a more comprehensive and efficient training. The apparatus includes a sliding track configured to create resistance against hip shift exercises of a user. Further, a hip shift pad is attached to the sliding track. The hip shift pad is configured to facilitate the user to push the hips into the hip shift pad to create resistance and support during the hip shift exercises. A first weight stack is configured to provide adjustable resistance for performing transverse twist exercise using one or more main shafts. A second weight stack is configured to create resistance for the hip shift motions. A vertical handle is mounted over each of the main shaft which can slide longitudinally along the main shaft to load the upper back.

Description

AN APPARATUS TO PERFORM HIP SHIFTS AND TRANSVERSE TWISTEXERCISESField of Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fitness equipment. Specifically, the present invention pertains to an apparatus designed to facilitate hips shifts exercises combined with transverse twist exercises, for efficient conditioning of the upper body of a user.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] In physical therapy and rehabilitation, exercises targeting hip and transverse twist are crucial for improving mobility, strength, and balance. Traditional rehabilitation methods often involve basic exercises or manual assistance, which can be limited in effectiveness and variety.

[0004] Existing equipment for hip and transverse twist exercises, such as resistance bands or balance boards, often lack the versatility and adjustability needed for specific rehabilitation needs. Additionally, existing equipment is not designed to simultaneously target both hip shifts and transverse twists in a controlled manner. Many gym equipment may not provide the specific movements or resistance patterns needed to effectively perform these exercise patterns together at the same time.Summary

[0005] Known equipment suffer from a major drawback in that they do not facilitate simultaneously targeting both hip shifts and transverse twists in a controlled manner.

[0006] In view thereof, there is a need for a versatile apparatus that facilitates performing combination of hip shift and transverse twist exercises to provide a more comprehensive and efficient training or rehabilitation experience.

[0007] There is, therefore, a need to overcome the above stated drawbacks of conventional and existing equipment by providing a versatile apparatus designed to facilitate hips shiftsexercises combined with transverse twist exercises to an upper body of a user. It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that combines hip shifts and transverse twisting exercises for comprehensive functional training.

[0008] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that enables smooth and controlled movement patterns that target the hip and core muscles, thereby promoting better mobility, strength, and balance.

[0009] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an ergonomic and versatile apparatus that supports smooth, coordinated movements for hip shifts and transverse twists, thereby enhancing user comfort and exercise effectiveness.

[0010] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus with adjustable components that cater to various user sizes and fitness levels, ensuring a customizable and scalable workout experience.

[0011] It is yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that enables precise control over resistance levels and promotes effective core and hip muscle engagement.

[0012] It is yet another objective of the present invention to engage the upper back, neck and shoulder muscles of a user while before performing the transverse twist motions.

[0013] An aspect of the present invention relates to an apparatus configured to facilitate a hips shift exercise combined with a transverse twist exercise to tone and strengthen the upper body of a user. The apparatus includes a sliding track configured over a support structure along a first vertical axis. The sliding track is configured to create resistance against hip shifts of the user. Further, the apparatus includes a hip shift pad slidably attached to the sliding track such that a height of the hip shift pad is adjustable in a vertical direction. The hip shift pad is configured to assist the user to push the hips into the hip shift pad to create resistance and support during the hip shift exercises.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a first weight stack and a second weight stack attached to the support structure. The first weight stack can include a plurality of weight plates that can provide adjustable resistance for performing transverse twist exercises using one or more main shafts. One end of each of the main shafts can be operatively connected to the weight stack. The second weight stack can be configured to create resistance for the hip shift motions.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a vertical handle mounted over the main shaft. The vertical handle can slide longitudinally along the main shaft to engage upper back, neck and shoulder muscles of the user while being able to perform the transverse twist exercise and the hip shift exercise at the same time. The vertical handle can be ergonomically designed to enhance grip and comfort during the transverse twist exercises.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the sliding track can include a series of holes, which may include equally spaced holes configured to adjust the height of the hip shift pad. A pin can be mounted at a back side of the hip shift pad that can engage with any of the series of first holes to enable height adjustability of the hip shift pad in accordance with body size, shape and posture of the user while performing the hip shift exercises.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a plurality of range controllers that can be implemented on the apparatus for hip shift and transverse shift motions for limiting movements of different types, such as movement of the first and second weight stacks, a rotary motion of the handles, shifting movement of the hip shift pad, and sliding movement of the handle along the main shaft.

[0018] As can be appreciated, the proposed apparatus offers combined hip shifting and transverse twisting exercises using a single apparatus for comprehensive functional training. The user can position either his left or right hip next to the sliding track to perform hip shift exercises, and ensure that the vertical handle configured to assist the user to perform the transverse twist exercises is set up so it can move up and down the main shaft. One hip can be aligned with the hip shift pad. Thereafter, the user can hold onto the vertical handle to slide it up and down the main shaft to load the upper back, neck and shoulder muscles. The user then shifts his hip laterally to push the hip shift pad inward along the sliding track, creating resistance, thereby performing the transverse twist exercises in an effective manner. Simultaneously, the user rotates the vertical handle along a frontal plane to target oblique and core muscles. After completing the desired reps on one side, the user can simply switch to the other side to perform the opposite hip and transverse twist motions.

[0019] 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

[0020] 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.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary front view of an apparatus 100 configured to facilitate hips shifts exercises combined with transverse twist exercises for a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary lateral view of an apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary isometric view and a side view of an apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary front view and an isometric view of the apparatus 100, further highlighting the detailed views A and B of the range controllers 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] . Depending on the context, all references below to the invention may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. As used in the description herein and throughout the present invention that follow, 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 and does not pose a limitation on thescope of the invention. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0028] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in the present invention is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0029] Existing equipment for hip and transverse twist exercises, such as resistance bands or balance boards, often lack the versatility and adjustability needed for specific rehabilitation needs. Additionally, the existing equipment are not designed to simultaneously target both hip shifts and transverse twists in a controlled manner. Many gym equipment may not provide the specific movements or resistance patterns needed to effectively perform these exercise patterns.

[0030] The present invention provides an apparatus that can be configured to facilitate hips shifts exercises combined with transverse twist exercises, to allow efficient and reliable conditioning of the upper body of a user. The apparatus includes a sliding track that allows the user to perform the hip shift exercises in the frontal plane. Further, the apparatus is equipped with a vertical shaft that moves up and down the main shaft to load the upper back, neck and upper shoulder muscles of the user before performing the transverse twist exercise using the vertical handle.

[0031] Embodiments explained herein relate to an apparatus designed to facilitate a user to perform a combination of hip shift exercises and transverse twist exercises, to provide a more comprehensive and efficient training or rehabilitation experience. The apparatus includes a sliding track configured to create resistance against hip shift exercises for the user. Further, the apparatus includes a hip shift pad attached to the sliding track. The hip shift pad is adjustable in height, and configured to facilitate the user to push their hips into the hip shift pad to create resistance and support during the hip shift exercises. The apparatus can include a first and second weight stacks attached to a support structure. The first weight stack can include a plurality of weights that can provide adjustable resistance for performing transverse twist exercise using one or more main shafts. One end of each of the main shafts can be connected to the weight stack. Further, the second weight stack can be configured to create resistance for the hip shift motions. A vertical handle can be mounted over the main shaft which can slide longitudinally along the main shaft to engage upper back, neck and shoulder muscles of the user while being able to perform the transverse twist and hip shift exercises at the same time.

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus 100 to facilitate hips shifts exercises combined with transverse twist exercises for a user. The apparatus 100 includes a sliding track 102 configured over a support structure 104 along a first vertical axis. The sliding track 102 is configured to create resistance against hip shift exercises for the user. Further, the apparatus 100 includes a hip shift pad 106 attached to the sliding track 102. The hip shift pad 106 is configured to facilitate the user to push the hips into the hip shift pad 106 to create resistance and support during the hip shift exercises. The hip shift pad 106 may be attached to the sliding track 102, such that the hip shift pad 106 is slidably adjustable in a vertical direction.

[0033] The sliding track 102 can be formed of a material selected from but not limited to aluminum alloys, stainless steel, High-Density Polyethylene (HDP), composite polymers, and the like. The material selected for the sliding track 102 may be wear-resistance, and have high-load capacity. The sliding track 102 can include a series of holes 118, which may include equally spaced holes configured to adjust height of the hip shift pad 106. A pin (not shown) can be mounted at a back side of the hip shift pad 106, which can engage with any of the series of holes 118 to enable height adjustability of the hip shift pad 106 in accordance with body size, shape and posture of the user while performing hip shift exercises. A shape of each of the holes 118 can be selected from but not limited to circular, square, ellipse, rectangular, triangular, and the like. Further, the shape of the pin can be selected on the basis of the shape of the holes 118 to allow proper alignment. Additionally, the hip shift pad 106 can be adjustable in upward and downward directions to align with the user's body mechanics and desired exercise posture. This adjustability ensures that the apparatus 100 can be customized for individual needs, providing ergonomic support and enhancing the effectiveness of the hip shift exercises and transverse twist exercises.

[0034] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first weight stack 112 and a second weight stack 112’ attached to the support structure 104. Each of the weight stack 112 can include a plurality of weight plates 114 (also referred as weights 114 or plates 114, herein) that can provide adjustable resistance for performing transverse twist exercise using one or more main shafts 108 (individually or collectively referred as main shaft 108 or main shafts 108 respectively, herein) and for performing the hip shift exercise using the hip shift pad 106. The main shafts 108 can be positioned to sides of the sliding track 102. Each of the main shafts 108 can be connected to the weight stack 112. The main shaft 108 can pivot around a fixed point, thereby facilitating controlled transverse twisting exercises.

[0035] In an embodiment, the first and second weight stack 112, 1 12’ can be made from durable materials such as steel or heavy-duty plastic, without limitations. Steel offers strength and stability, while plastic or composite materials can provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant option. In an embodiment, each of the first and second weight stacks 112, 112’ can include a guide rod 116 to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates 114 without tilting or wobbling. The weight plates 114 can be stacked vertically and can have a central hole that slides onto the guiding rod. This allows the plates 114 to move up and down as the resistance is adjusted. The guide rod 116 can be cylindrical shaft that can run parallel to the weight stack 112 and allow the weight plates 114 to slide up and down smoothly. The guide rod 116 can be made from metal and can be designed to be durable and resistant to bending or warping. In some embodiments, the weight stack 112 can include channels or guides to facilitate up and down movement of the plates 114.

[0036] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a vertical handle 110 (also referred as handle 110, herein) mounted over the main shaft 108. The vertical handle 110 can slide longitudinally along the main shaft 108 to engage the upper back, neck and shoulder muscles, while being able to perform the transverse twist and hip shift exercises at the same time. The handle 110 can be ergonomically designed to enhance grip and comfort during the transverse twist exercises.

[0037] The handle 110 can be of a cylindrical or ergonomic grip structure, and can be made from materials such as but not limited to high-strength plastic, rubber, or metal. The ability to move the handle 110 up and down allows the user to engage his upper back neck and shoulder muscles while being able to do the transverse twist and hip shift motions at the same time.

[0038] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 120 for the first weight stack 112 to adjust resistance during transverse twist exercise. The first range controller 120 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 weights such that when the weights is lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the weights is restricted by the blocking member. The lock for the first range controller 120 for the first weight stack 112 can include a retractable pin provided on the blocking member. The retracted pin, when released, can engage with a selected hole among a plurality of holes provided on a frame of the first weight stack 112 to fix the blockingmember, such as a selected height from the weight selector of the weights. In particular, after pulling the pin outwards, the blocking member can be slid along the blocking member track to different positions, such as at the desired distance from the weight selector of the weights, and locked in the position by releasing the pin for locking with a corresponding hole on the frame, for achieving a desired range of motion.

[0039] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second range controller (not shown) for the second weight stack 112’ to control resistance provided for hip shift motions. The configuration of the second range controller is similar to that of the first range controller 120, providing the user with the ability to selectively adjust the resistance applied during hip shift motions.

[0040] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include an angular range controller 120 to regulate the range of rotation of the handle 110 associated with the apparatus 100. The angular range controller 120 can help in preventing over rotation and potential injury. By limiting the range of rotary motion of the handle 110, the angular range controller 120 enables the user to engage effectively in transverse twist exercises. This controlled motion facilitates targeted muscle engagement and enhances overall workout efficiency. The angular range controller 120 can include pivotally moving members configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of the handle 110, and a selector plate having a plurality of holes. The pivotally moving member includes a lock having a retractable pin configured to lock the pivotally moving member in different angular positions by engaging with a selected hole among the plurality holes of the selector plate. The angularly moving part includes a stopper (not shown), which is located in the same plane as the pivotally moving member such that, during the rotation of the handle 110, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the handle 110 beyond the selected position.

[0041] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) for the hip shift pad 106 to regulate resistance. The third range controller can include a locking lever slidably and rotatably coupled to a track of the hip shift pad 106. The locking lever functions as a stopper for movement of the hip shift pad 106 by blocking movement of the hip shift pad 106 along the track. The locking lever can be slid along the track and locked in a selected position by engaging the locking lever in a slot among a plurality off slots provided in a frame of the apparatus. In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a fourth range controller (notshown) configured to the handle 1 10 to control range for sliding motion of the handle 110 along the main shaft 108. As the user performs the hip shift motions, the user can slide the handle 110 to different positions, simulating various levels of hip movement. This helps in practicing controlled lateral shifts and enhancing muscle activation.

[0042] In an implementation, the user can position his either left or right hip next to the sliding track 102, while ensuring that the vertical handle 110 adapted to assist the user to perform the transverse twist exercises is set up so it can move up and down the main shaft 108. One hip can be aligned with the hip shift pad 106. Thereafter, the user can hold onto the vertical handle 110 to slide it up and down the main shaft 108 to load the upper back, neck and shoulder muscles. The user then shifts his hip laterally to push the hip shift pad 106 inward along the sliding track, creating resistance, thereby performing the transverse twist exercises in an effective manner. Simultaneously, the user rotates the vertical handle 110 along a frontal plane to target oblique and core muscles. After completing the desired reps on one side, the user can simply switch to the other side to perform the opposite hip and transverse twist motions.

[0043] As can be appreciated, the user can perform hip shift exercises while simultaneously engaging in transverse twist exercises. The sliding track 102 can allow the hip shift exercises to occur in the frontal plane, while the handle 110 facilitates the twisting exercises in another plane, engaging different muscle groups. This integrated functionality enables the user to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a comprehensive workout. It is particularly useful for exercises that require coordination between the hips and core, improving overall stability and strength.

[0044] Thus, a person skilled in the art would appreciate that the proposed apparatus 100 integrates a dual-function means that allows simultaneous execution of hip shift and transverse twist movements. The sliding track 102 facilitates the hip shift exercises by providing resistance in the frontal plane, while the transverse twist exercises is performed using the handle 110. The handle 110 can be configured to move up the main body to load the upper back, neck and shoulder muscles of the user before performing the transverse twist exercises using the handle 110. Further, the handle 110 can be configured to allow for controlled twisting exercises, engaging the core and oblique muscles. The handle 110 can be adjusted in terms of angle and resistance to cater to different exercise intensities and rehabilitation stages. The combination of these two functionalities in a single apparatus enables comprehensive training and rehabilitation for both hip shift exercisesand transverse twists exercises, addressing complex movement patterns in a unified exercise regimen.

[0045] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred 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.

[0046] 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 configured to facilitate a hips shift exercise combined with a transverse twist exercise to tone and strengthen the upper body of a user, comprising: a. a support structure (104); b. a sliding track (102) coupled to the support structure, wherein the sliding track is configured to resist a hip shift motion of the user; c. a hip shift pad (106) slidably coupled to the sliding track, wherein the hip shift pad is configured to receive force from the user's hips for the hip shift exercise; d. a first weight stack (112) and a second weight stack (112') attached to the support structure, (i) the first weight stack (112) being configured to provide adjustable resistance for performing transverse twist exercises; and (ii) the second weight stack (112') being configured to create resistance for the hip shift motions; e. at least one main shaft (108) connected to the first weight stack (112); and f. a vertical handle (110) mounted to the at least one main shaft (108), wherein the vertical handle is positionally adjustable along the main shaft, the apparatus being configured to enable the user to perform the transverse twist exercise and the hip shift exercise simultaneously.

2. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the height of the hip shift pad (106) is adjustable in a vertical direction.

3. The apparatus according to Claim 2, wherein the sliding track (102) includes a series of holes (118), and a pin mounted at a back side of the hip shift pad (106) engages with any of the series of holes (118) to enable height adjustability of the hip shift pad.

4. The apparatus according to Claim 1, further comprising a plurality of range controllers configured to limit movements of different types, including movement of the first weight stack (112) and the second weight stack (112'), a rotary motion of the vertical handle (110), a shifting movement of the hip shift pad (106), and a sliding movement of the vertical handle (110) along the main shaft (108).

5. The apparatus according to Claim 4, wherein an angular range controller (120) is configured to regulate the range of rotation of the vertical handle (110).

6. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the hip shift pad (106) is horizontally adjustable relative to the sliding track (102).

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