Pull-up apparatus to perform upper body exercises

Abstract

A pull-up apparatus to facilitate versatility of upper body workout training to a user, includes a pair of rotating handles attached to a frame structure. The pair of rotating handles are configured to facilitate users to adjust their grip orientation and the angle at which they pull. A set of adjustable pins is configured to set the handles in a first position, where they are spaced apart for a pulling resistance, and a second position, where they are close together for a pushing resistance. A first weight stack is coupled to the rotating handles, configured to provide adjustable resistance to the movements of the users. The apparatus is set-up with an assisted bench to facilitate the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up in order to control the eccentric load so the user stretches their latissimus-dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back.

Description

PULL-UP APPARATUS TO PERFORM UPPER BODY EXERCISESField of Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fitness equipment. Specifically, the present invention pertains to a pull-up apparatus to facilitate upper body exercises for users.Background

[0002] A pull-up machine, also referred to as a pull-up bar, is a versatile piece of fitness equipment used to perform bodyweight exercises such as pull-ups targeting an upper body of a user, particularly back, shoulders, and arms by providing support. The pull-up machine allows the user to perform the exercises with varying levels of assistance, making it easier to complete the movements during exercising.

[0003] Traditional pull-up machines have a fixed griping position, thus doesn’t account for the anatomy of how the hands, arms, and shoulders move in human movement. Traditional pull-up machines may restrict the natural movement path of the user, which can limit the effectiveness of exercise.

[0004] Existing pull-up machines generally lack rotating handles to adjust positioning of the hands of the users / or exercisers. Without adjustable handles, the users can be restricted to a single grip position, which can limit the variety of pull-up variations that can be performed. Different gripping positions, target and tone different muscle groups. Further, if the handle position is not optimal for the user’s body size or arm length, it may result in discomfort or strain. In functional training, changing the gripping position helps simulate different real-world movements and conditions. The fixed grip may not fully prepare the users for a variety of hand positions encountered in different physical activities.

[0005] Additionally, the fixed handle position might force the user’ s shoulders into a less natural position, potentially leading to increased stress on the shoulder joints and surrounding muscles.

[0006] Therefore, known pull-up machines suffer from a major drawback in that they do not provide features to adjust angles and orientation of handles during workout, to accommodate various grip positions.

[0007] There is, therefore, a need to overcome the above stated drawbacks of conventional pull-up machines by providing a robust and reliable pull-up apparatus to facilitate versatility of upper body workout training to a user.Summary

[0008] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a pull-up apparatus that allows users to adjust angle and orientation of handles adapted to be held / gripped by the users during workouts.

[0009] It is another objective of the present invention to provide a pull-up apparatus that supports multiple grip orientations and exercise variations, making it suitable for a diverse range of workout routines and fitness levels.

[0010] It is another objective of the present invention to provide a pull-up apparatus that facilitates improvement in engagement of upper body muscle groups by providing a wide variety of gripping positions.

[0011] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a pull-up apparatus which helps in adopting a more natural and ergonomic grip position during exercises.

[0012] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a pull-up machine that reduces the chances of strains on the user’s wrists and shoulders while doing exercises.

[0013] In an aspect, a pull-up apparatus includes a pair of rotating handles that allow users to adjust angle of their hands, forearms, and upper arms, making it suitable for a diverse range of workout routines and fitness levels. The pull-up apparatus is a robust, safe and reliable exercising machine that can be implemented for upper body muscles training by enabling the pair of handles to rotate, thereby accommodating a wider range of grip positions and movements.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the pair of rotating handles may be attached to a frame structure. The pair of rotating handles may be configured to facilitate users to adjust angle of their hands, forearms, and upper arms, making it suitable for a diverse range of workout routines and fitness levels, and accommodating the natural range of motion in the shoulders and arms. The rotating handles can pivot along multiple axes, enabling theusers to adjust their grip orientation and the angle at which they pull. The users can rotate the rotating handles to simulate a wide range of hand positions, including neutral, pronated, and supinated grips, as well as angles that mimic real-life movements such as reaching, throwing, or swinging. By allowing dynamic adjustments, the rotating handles reduce strain on the joints and muscles of the users, offering a more comfortable and biomechanically advantageous exercise experience.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus may include a first weight stack coupled to the rotating handles. The first weight stack may be configured to provide adjustable resistance to the movements of the handles.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus may include a set of adjustable pins that may be configured to set the handles in a first position, where they are spaced apart for a pulling resistance, and a second position, where they are close together for a pushing resistance. The first weight stack may facilitate switching between the pulling resistance and the pushing resistance. The pulling resistance may be a resistance offered by a first weight stack that mimics the action of pulling the handles towards each other, effectively engaging the back, biceps, and forearms. The pushing resistance may be a resistance offered by the first weight stack that mimics the action of pushing the handles apart, engaging the chest, shoulders, and triceps.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus may include an assisted bench configured to facilitate the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up in order to control the eccentric load so the user may stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back in order to complete the pull up exercise

[0018] According to an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus may include a second weight stack coupled to the assisted bench to provide adjustable resistance to the movement of the assisted bench.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the pull-up apparatus may include one or more range controllers, configured to limit or define the movement boundaries of the rotating handles and / or the assisted bench.

[0020] As can be appreciated, the proposed pull-up apparatus offers greater adaptability through adjustable components such as the adjustable rotating handles andadjustable pins that better simulate real-life movement patterns and provide customizable resistance options.

[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] FIGs. 1A and IB illustrate an exemplary perspective view, and side view of the proposed pull-up apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 1C illustrates another exemplary top view of the pull-up apparatus of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIGs. 2A to 2C illustrate additional exemplary views of the pull-up apparatus, in accordance with one or more 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] 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.

[0028] 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 the scope of the invention.

[0029] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a description 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.

[0030] Conventional pull-up machines typically feature fixed-position handles that do not accommodate natural variations in the shoulder and arm movement of users. This limitation restricts the users to a static range of motion, reducing the effectiveness of the exercise for functional strength training. Furthermore, existing machines often lack the ability to adjust the resistance type to simulate both pulling and pushing actions, which can be crucial for comprehensive muscle development.

[0031] The present invention provides a pull-up apparatus that offers an innovative solution to the challenges posed by existing pull-up machines, by providing a robust, safe and reliable exercising machine that can be implemented for upper body muscles training by enabling handles adapted to be gripped by users to rotate, thereby accommodating a wider range of grip positions and movements.

[0032] Embodiments explained herein relate to a pull-up apparatus designed to facilitate versatility of upper body workout training to a user. The apparatus includes a pair of rotating handles configured to facilitate users to adjust angle of their hands, forearms, and upper arms, making it suitable for a diverse range of workout routines and fitness levels, accommodating the natural range of motion in the shoulders and arms. The apparatus includes a set of adjustable pins that set the handles in a first position, where they are spaced apart for a pulling resistance, and a second position, where they are close together for a pushing resistance. Additionally, the pull-up apparatus includes a first weight stack coupled to the rotating handles via a pulley and cable system. The first weight stack can be configured to provide adjustable resistance to the movements of the users. The apparatus can be set-up with an assisted bench that is attached to a second weight stack. The assisted bench facilitates the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up in order tocontrol the eccentric load so the user can stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back in order to complete the pull up exercise. Additionally, the second weight stack can be coupled to the assisted bench to provide adjustable resistance to the movement of the assisted bench.

[0033] FIGs. 1A to 1C illustrate exemplary views of a pull-up apparatus 100 to facilitate versatility of upper body workout training to users. The pull-up apparatus 100 (also referred as apparatus 100, herein) includes a base 102’, and a frame structure 102 configured to support components of the apparatus 100. The frame structure 102 includes a support unit 102b extending in a vertical plane. The support unit 102b can include two or more vertical members 102b-l, and a horizontal member 102b-2 attached to the two or more vertical members 102b- 1. The apparatus 100 includes a pair of rotating handles 104- 1, 104-2 (also referred herein as rotating handles, handles, 104 therein) attached to the horizontal member 102b-2. The rotating handles 104 can be designed to improve the functionality and effectiveness of the apparatus 100 by allowing the rotating handles 104 to pivot or rotate around a pivot point. The rotating handles 104 can pivot along multiple axes, enabling the users to adjust their grip orientation and the angle at which they pull. The users can rotate the rotating handles 104 to simulate a wide range of hand positions, including neutral, pronated, and supinated gripping portions, as well as angles that mimic real-life movements such as reaching, throwing, or swinging. By allowing dynamic adjustments, the rotating handles 104 reduce strain on the joints and muscles of the users, offering a more comfortable and biomechanically advantageous exercise experience.

[0034] FIGs. 2A to 2C illustrate additional exemplary views of a pull-up apparatus 100 to facilitate versatility of upper body workout training to users comprising one or more range controllers (120, 120', 121) configured to limit or define the movement boundaries of the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) and / or the assisted bench (110).

[0035] The rotating handles 104 can have gripping portions selected from but not limited to rectangular grips, contoured or sculpted grips, curved handles, pistol shaped grip, and the like. Further, the rotating handles 104 can be covered with a cushioning material to enhance comfort and reduce risk of injuries during exercise. The cushioning material can also absorb impacts and vibrations, thereby minimizing stress on hands and wrists of the users. The cushioning material can be selected from but not limited to Ethylene VinylAcetate (EVA) Foam, Polyurethane Foam, Natural Rubber, Synthetic Rubber, microfiber, and the like.

[0036] In an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus 100 includes a first weight stack 108 coupled to the rotating handles 104. The first weight stack 108 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance to the movements of the rotating handles 104 by the user. The first weight stack 108 can include a plurality of weights that can be adjusted to change resistance level applied to the rotating handles 104. The first weight stack 108 can facilitate switching between a pulling resistance and a pushing resistance. The pulling resistance can be a resistance offered by the first weight stack 108 that mimics the action of pulling the rotating handles 104 towards each other, effectively engaging the back, biceps, and forearms. The pushing resistance can be a resistance offered by the first weight stack 108 that mimics the action of pushing the rotating handles 104 apart, engaging the chest, shoulders, and triceps. A resistance level can be set by inserting a pin into the first weight stack 108. The pin can select a number of weight plates to lift, thereby adjusting the amount of weight the user can work against.

[0037] In an embodiment, the pull-up apparatus 100 may include a set of adjustable pins 106 that can be configured to set the rotating handles 104 in a first position, where they can be spaced apart for the pulling resistance, and the second position, where they can be close together for a pushing resistance. When the rotating handles 102 can be set in the first position, the users can perform pull-ups or chin-ups where he / she can pull his / her body up towards the rotating handles 104. This position primarily targets the back muscles (latissimus dorsi), biceps, shoulders, and core. The adjustable pins 106 in the first position can be likely set to maintain a wider distance between the rotating handles 104, which may align with the biomechanics of the pull-up, allowing for a greater range of motion and engagement of the back muscles. The horizontal member 102b-2 of the support unit 102b can include a plurality of positioning slots 118, which may include equally spaced positioning slots configured to adjust positioning of the rotating handles 104.

[0038] In the second position, the adjustable pins 106 can be set to bring the rotating handles 104 closer together, facilitating exercises where the primary movement involves pushing away from the rotating handles 104. This setup can emphasize the chest, triceps, and shoulders.

[0039] Thus, a person skilled in the art would appreciate that by adjusting the rotating handles 104 using the adjustable pins 106, the users can switch between the pulling resistance and the pushing resistance training, thereby allowing for a versatile workout that targets different muscle groups and movement patterns.

[0040] A cable or rope 116 of the pulley and cable systems can be connected to the rotating handles 104. When the users can pull on the rotating handles 104, the cable 116 can transmit the force to lift the weights. The configuration of pulleys 112 and weights determines how much force is required to lift the weights and, consequently, how much resistance is applied to the rotating handles 104.

[0041] The apparatus 100 can be set up with an assisted bench 110 that can be attached to a second weight stack 108’. The assisted bench 110 can facilitate the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up to control the eccentric load so the user can stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back to complete the pull up exercise. The second weight stack 108’ can provide adjustable resistance to the movement of the assisted bench.

[0042] The assisted bench 110 can provide support to the users, allowing them to kneel on it while performing pull-ups. The assisted bench 110 can help offset some of their body weight, making it easier to lift their body and complete the exercise. The users can kneel on the assisted bench 110, which can be connected to the second weight stack 108’ through a cable or rope. As the users kneel, the weights can support some of the body weight, reducing the load on arms and back of the users. While kneeling, the users have to grasp the rotating handles 104 and perform the pull-up movement. The assisted bench 110 helps lift the body by counteracting a portion of the body weight. This makes it easier to complete the pull-up and allows the users to focus on movement and muscle engagement.

[0043] During an eccentric phase of a pull-up, the user can lower their body down after pulling their body up. With the assisted bench 110, users can more easily control this phase, as the assisted bench 110 reduces the effort needed to lift the body and helps the users to maintain control during the eccentric or lowering phase. When the users lower his body slowly, the users can fully stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back muscles. Thus, the controlled assistance can ensure that the usercan complete the pull-up exercise effectively, focusing on the proper form and muscle engagement.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the pull-up apparatus (100) includes one or more range controllers (120, 120', 121) configured to limit or define the movement boundaries of the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) and / or the assisted bench (110). Specifically, a terminal range controller (120, 120') may be positioned at the ends of the horizontal member (102b-2) to prevent excessive lateral movement of the handles. Furthermore, a weight stack range controller (121) is included in the weight stack mechanism (108, 108') to select or limit the minimum and maximum amount of weight available for the user.

[0045] As can be appreciated, the integration of the assisted bench 110 with the pull-up apparatus 100 can facilitate extra support to the users in maintaining proper technique and foam while exercising and thereby execute the exercises with controlled movements.

[0046] Thus, the present invention provides a robust, safe and reliable pull-up apparatus 100 that facilitates adjusting angles and orientation of the handles 104 during workout, to accommodate various grip positions. Further, the proposed apparatus 100 helps the users to switch between the pulling resistance and the pushing resistance training by adjusting the rotating handles 104 using the adjustable pins 106, thereby allowing for a versatile workout that targets different muscle groups and movement patterns.

[0047] Further, the apparatus 100 can be set up with the assisted bench 110 that can be attached to the second weight stack 108’. The assisted bench 110 can facilitate the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up in order to control the eccentric load so the user can stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel the contraction in the back in order to complete the pull up exercise.

[0048] 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.

[0049] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basicscope 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. A pull-up apparatus (100) comprising: a. a base (102’); b. a frame structure (102) configured to support components of the pull-up apparatus (100); c. a pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) attached to the frame structure (102), wherein the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) is configured to facilitate a user to adjust an angle; d. a set of adjustable pins (106) configured to set the rotating handles (104-1, 104- 2) in a first position and a second position; e. a first weight stack (108) coupled to the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104-2), wherein the first weight stack (108) is configured to provide adjustable resistance; f. an assisted bench (110) configured to facilitate the user to kneel on to aid with lifting the user up; and g. a second weight stack (108’) coupled to the assisted bench (110) to provide adjustable resistance to movement of the assisted bench (110).

2. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104- 2) is configured to pivot or rotate around a pivot point.

3. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 2, wherein the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104- 2) can pivot along multiple axes, enabling the user to adjust their grip orientation and an angle at which they pull.

4. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the pulling resistance is a resistance offered by the first weight stack (108) that mimics an action of pulling the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) towards each other, engaging the back, biceps, and forearms.

5. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the pushing resistance is a resistance offered by the first weight stack (108) that mimics an action of pushing the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) apart, engaging the chest, shoulders, and triceps.

6. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (108) is coupled to the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) via a pulley (112) and cable or rope (116) system.

7. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the assisted bench (110) provides support to the user, allowing the user to kneel on it while performing pull-ups, thereby offsetting some of the user’s body weight and making it easier to complete the exercise.

8. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the horizontal member (102b-2) includes a plurality of positioning slots (118) configured to adjust positioning of the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2).

9. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the frame structure (102) includes a support unit (102b) extending in a vertical plane, and wherein the support unit (102b) includes a horizontal member (102b-2) attached to two or more vertical members (102b- 1).

10. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) is attached to the horizontal member (102b-2) of the support unit (102b).

11. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the pair of rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) is configured to facilitate a user to adjust angle of their hands, forearms, and upper arms.

12. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the first position is where the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) are spaced apart for a pulling resistance, and the second position is where the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2) are close together for a pushing resistance.

13. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (108) is configured to provide adjustable resistance to movements of the rotating handles (104-1, 104-2).

14. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, wherein the assisted bench (110) is configured to control an eccentric load so the user can stretch their latissimus dorsi muscle and feel a contraction in the back.

15. The pull-up apparatus (100) of Claim 1, further comprising one or more range controllers (120, 120’, 121) configured to define boundaries of movement or resistance.

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