Apparatus for facilitating LAT-pull down and hip rotation exercises

Abstract

An apparatus configured to facilitate lat-pull down exercise with hip rotation exercise simultaneously includes a base frame, and a bench configured over the base frame to allow a user to sit thereon while performing exercises. A set of a pair of stabilizing pads attached below the bench and configured to secure thighs in place to stabilize the legs of the user and prevent unwanted movement during the hip rotation exercise. The apparatus includes a handlebar moveable with a set of gripping handles that allow the user in a seated position to hold the handles while performing the lat-pull down exercise. First and second weight stacks are configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing lat-pull down exercise and hip rotation respectively. Range controllers are implemented on the apparatus for lat-pull down and hip rotation movements for limiting movements of different types, such as movement of the first and second weight stacks, a motion of the handles, and an angular movement of the bench.

Description

APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING LAT-PULL DOWN AND HIP ROTATION EXERCISESFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fitness equipment. Specifically, it pertains to an apparatus for facilitating lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises targeting the upper body, particularly latissimus dorsi and other upper back muscles.BACKGROUND

[0002] Lat-pull down exercises are designed to primarily target and strengthen the latissimus dorsi (lats), which are the large muscles of the back, as well as other upper body muscles such as the biceps, trapezius, and deltoids. Existing lat-pull down machines, while effective for isolating specific muscles, have certain drawbacks that hinder their ability to accommodate users of various body types, promote functional strength, and optimize biomechanics.

[0003] Conventional lat-pull down machines typically feature a fixed seat and bar positions, which, while adjustable for resistance, do not accommodate the users of varying heights. This lack of adjustability can lead to improper body alignment, causing inefficient movement patterns and limiting the range of motion. As a result, the users may experience discomfort or strain in areas such as the shoulders, spine, or wrists. Furthermore, many conventional machines focus primarily on isolating the latissimus dorsi muscles, without engaging the full body. This isolation fails to promote the coordination necessary for functional strength, which is vital for performing real-world movements and excelling in athletic activities. Over-reliance on such isolated exercises can also contribute to muscle imbalances, as stabilizing muscles are often underdeveloped.

[0004] Furthermore, most conventional lat-pull down machines do not promote hip rotation or engagement of core stabilizing muscles. In contrast, functional strength training often requires dynamic movements that engage multiple muscle groups in unison. The ability to mimic real-world motions or athletic movements, where the hips, core, and upper body work together is a key factor for optimizing joint stability, promoting muscular coordination, and reducing the risk of injury. The absence of the hip rotation in the conventional lat-pull down machines restricts the training benefits to only the upper bodymuscles, which may lead to over-reliance on isolated muscles such as the lats while neglecting overall body coordination.SUMMARY

[0005] There is a need for an innovative solution that addresses the aforementioned drawbacks and limitations associated with the conventional lat-pull down machines, by providing an apparatus for facilitating lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises targeting upper body, particularly latissimus dorsi and other upper back muscles.

[0006] It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that enables a user to perform a combined lat-pull down and hip rotation movement in a seamless and integrated manner.

[0007] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that enables the users to engage their core, hips, and stabilizing muscles during the exercise, thus promoting functional strength and improving overall coordination.

[0008] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that allows for a more natural and dynamic range of motion that mimics real-world and athletic activities, enhancing joint stability and flexibility.

[0009] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that improves overall workout efficiency by targeting the latissimus dorsi and stabilizing muscles for comprehensive strength development.

[0010] It is yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus incorporated with enhanced adjustability that accommodates users of various heights, allowing for proper body positioning and alignment to optimize movement patterns and reduce the risk of strain on the shoulders, spine, and wrists.

[0011] In an aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus that can be implemented for performing both lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises, targeting upper body, particularly latissimus dorsi and other upper back muscles.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the present invention pertains to an apparatus configured to facilitate lat pull down and hip rotation exercises. The apparatus includes a base frame that can be positioned on a ground surface, and a bench configured over the base frame. The bench is configured to allow a user to sit thereon while performing exercises and place their foot on a footrest configured in front of the bench. The apparatusincludes a pair of stabilizing pads attached below the bench via one or more connecting members. The pair of stabilizing pads may be configured to secure thighs in place to stabilize the legs of the user and prevent unwanted movement during the hip rotation exercise.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a vertical frame erected over a rear end of the base frame. The apparatus may also include a handlebar movably coupled to the vertical frame, with a set of gripping handles (referred simply as “handles’ hereinafter) that allow the user in a seated position to hold the handles while performing the lat-pull down exercise. Thus, when the user performs the lat-pull down exercise, the arms of the user move downward and outward, pulling the handles toward the chest. The motion engages the lats, upper back, and arms, with elbows staying close to the body as they travel downward. The vertical frame ensures that the handles move in a controlled, straight line, allowing the user to focus on the targeted muscle groups while maintaining proper posture and form.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a first range controller configured with the set of handles to allow the user to set limits on how far the user may move the handles to perform the lat-pull down exercise. The first range controller may help in preventing overextension of shoulders and reducing the risk of strain or injury.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second range controller configured below the bench to control range of rotary motion, during the hip rotation exercise. The second range controller may facilitate adjusting how far the bench can rotate during the hip rotation movement. By limiting the amount of hip rotation by limiting rotation angle of the bench, the second range controller may help prevent excessive movement, reducing the risk of overstretching or straining the hips or lower back.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may further include a chest pad attached at one side of the bench. The chest pad can be designed to provide additional support and stability to the upper body, particularly a chest area during the lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises. For hip rotation movement, the chest pad can help anchor the upper body while allowing the lower body to rotate smoothly. The chest pad can be adjusted to accommodate users of different sizes and provide proper support during the lat- pull down exercise. By adjusting the chest pad's position, the user can ensure that theirupper body remains stable and properly aligned throughout the movement. This helps to maintain proper posture, preventing excessive leaning or shifting, which could reduce the effectiveness of the exercise or increase the risk of injury.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a first weight stack connected to the handles. The first weight stack may be configured in the vertical frame. The first weight stack may be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing lat-pull down exercise.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second weight stack connected to the bench. The second weight stack may be configured in the vertical frame. The second weight stack may be configured to provide additional resistance required while performing the hip rotation exercise.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the lat-pull down exercise. The apparatus may further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the hip rotation exercise.

[0020] 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

[0021] FIG. 1 A illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an apparatus facilitating lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary rear view of the apparatus of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIGs. 2A to 2C illustrate additional exemplary views of the apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearlycommunicate 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 scope of the present invention.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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 present invention.

[0027] As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example, an object that is “substantially” cylindrical or “substantially” perpendicular would mean that the object / feature is either cylindrical / perpendicular or nearly cylindrical / perpendicular so as to result in the same or nearly the same function. The exact allowable degree of deviation provided by this term may depend on the specific context. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, structure which is “substantially free of’ a bottom would either completely lack a bottom or so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would be effectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom.

[0028] Similarly, as used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishing the function associated with the range.

[0029] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a description herein is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent arthave given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of fding.

[0030] The present invention addresses the limitations of the conventional lat-pull down machines by integrating a hip rotation mechanism into the lat-pull down machine, allowing for a more natural, functional movement pattern that engages the hips, core, and stabilizing muscles. This integrated rotation improves the user's biomechanics during the lat-pull down movement, ensuring a more effective workout that promotes greater overall strength, stability, and flexibility. The dynamic nature of the movement better simulates the complex motions used in real-world activities and athletic motions, making it suitable for users of various body types while reducing the risk of over-isolating specific muscle groups. Furthermore, the integration of hip rotation enhances coordination between the upper and lower body, fostering greater muscle synergy and functional fitness. As such, the present invention offers a significant advancement in strength training machines by providing a more biomechanically efficient, dynamic, and inclusive approach to upper body training.

[0031] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an apparatus 100 facilitating lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises. FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary rear view of the apparatus 100. The apparatus 100 includes a base frame 102 that can be positioned on a ground surface, and a bench 104 configured over the base frame 102. The bench 104 is configured to allow a user to sit thereon while performing exercises and place their foot on a footrest 106 configured in front of the bench 104. The apparatus 100 includes a set of stabilizing pads 114 such as 114-1, 114-2 attached below the bench 104 via one or more connecting members. The set of stabilizing pads can be configured to secure thighs in place to stabilize the legs of the user and prevent unwanted movement during the hip rotation exercise. Each of the set of stabilizing pads 114-1, 114-2 can include a pair of stabilizing pads 114-la, 114-lb, 114-2a, 114-2b (referred as “stabilizing pads 114” hereinafter) configured to secure the thighs of the user. The stabilizing pads 114 can be of shape selected from but not limited to rectangular, circular, square, oval, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the stabilizing pads 114 can be of rectangular shape configured longitudinally, wherein each of the pair of stabilizing pads 114 can be parallel to each other. Further, spacing between the pair of stabilizing pads 114 can be adjusted to accommodateusers of different leg sizes and shapes, ensuring a personalized and comfortable fit. This adjustability allows the stabilizing pads 114 to align properly with the user's thighs, providing optimal support and stability during the exercise. By customizing the spacing between the stabilizing pads 114, the user can ensure that their lower body is securely anchored, preventing any unnecessary shifting or discomfort while performing the lat-pull down or hip rotation exercises. This feature is particularly beneficial for the users with varying leg lengths or body types, as it helps maintain proper posture and form, enhancing both the effectiveness and safety of the workout.

[0032] In an embodiment, the bench 104 can include an adjustment mechanism configured to allow the user of various sizes and heights to customize the apparatus 100 to fit their individual body proportions. This adjustability ensures that the user can position themselves comfortably and safely for both the lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises, allowing for a more effective workout. The bench 104 can be modified in terms of height, angle, and length to ensure proper alignment with the user's body, enabling them to maintain optimal posture and form throughout the exercises.

[0033] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a vertical frame 108 erected over a rear end of the base frame 102. The apparatus 100 may also include a handlebar 110 movably coupled to the vertical frame 108, with a set of gripping handles 112 such as 112-1, 112-2 (referred simply as “handles 112’ hereinafter) that allow the user in a seated position to hold the handles 112 while performing the lat-pull down exercise. Thus, when the user performs the lat-pull down exercise, the arms of the user move downward and outward, pulling the handles 112 toward the chest. The motion engages the lats, upper back, and arms, with elbows staying close to the body as they travel downward. The vertical frame 108 ensures that the handles 112 move in a controlled, straight line, allowing the user to focus on the targeted muscle groups while maintaining proper posture and form.

[0034] In an embodiment, the handles 112 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 handles 112 can be covered with a cushioning material to enhance comfort and reduce risk of injuries during the lat-pull down exercise. The cushioning material can also absorb impacts and vibrations, thereby minimizing stress onhands and wrists of the users. The cushioning material can be selected from but not limited to Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Foam, Polyurethane Foam, Natural Rubber, Synthetic Rubber, microfiber, and the like.

[0035] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can further include an adjustable chest pad 124 (referred simply as “chest pad 124” hereinafter) attached at one side of the bench 104. The chest pad 124 can be designed to provide additional support and stability to the upper body, particularly a chest area during the lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises. For hip rotation movement, the chest pad 124 can help anchor the upper body while allowing the lower body to rotate smoothly. The chest pad 124 can be adjusted to accommodate users of different sizes and provide proper support during the lat-pull down exercise. By adjusting the chest pad's position, the user can ensure that their upper body remains stable and properly aligned throughout the movement. This helps to maintain proper posture, preventing excessive leaning or shifting, which could reduce the effectiveness of the exercise or increase the risk of injury. In an embodiment, the chest pad 124 can be of cylindrical shape, U-shape, V-shape, contoured shape, and the like, without any limitations whatsoever. In a preferred embodiment, the chest pad 124 can be of cylindrical shape.

[0036] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 120 configured with the handles 112 to allow the user to set limits on how far the user can move the handles 112 to perform the lat-pull down exercise. The first range controller 120 can help in preventing overextension of shoulders and reducing the risk of strain or injury. The apparatus 100 can include a second range controller 122 configured below the bench 104 to control range of rotary motion, during the hip rotation exercise. The second range controller 122 can facilitate adjusting how far the bench 104 can rotate during the hip rotation movement. By limiting the amount of hip rotation by limiting rotation angle of the bench 104, the second range controller 122 can help prevent excessive movement, reducing the risk of overstretching or straining the hips or lower back. The second range controller 122 can include a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of the bench 104, 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 engagingwith 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 bench 104, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the bench 104 beyond the selected position.

[0037] Further, the apparatus 100 can include a first weight stack 116 connected to the set of handles 112 via a cable and pulley system. The first weight stack 116 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the lat-pull down exercise. Further, the apparatus 100 can include a second weight stack 118 connected to the bench 104 via the cable and pulley system. The second weight stack 118 can be configured to provide additional resistance required while performing the hip rotation exercise. In an embodiment, the first and second weight stacks 116, 118 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 one embodiment, each of the first and second weight stacks 116, 118 can include a plurality of weight plates, and a guide rod to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates without tilting or wobbling. The weight plates can be stacked vertically and can have a central hole that slides onto the guiding rod. This allows the weight plates to move up and down as the resistance is adjusted. The guide rod can be a cylindrical shaft that can run parallel to the weight stack and allow the weight plates to slide up and down smoothly. The guide rod can be made from metal and can be designed to be durable and resistant to bending or warping. In some embodiments, the weight stack can include channels or guides to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates.

[0038] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) for the first weight stack 116 to adjust resistance during the lat-pull down exercise. The third range controller can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the first weight stack 116 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 third range controller forthe first weight stack 116 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 116 to fix the blocking member, 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 fourth range controller (not shown) for the second weight stack 118 to control resistance provided for the hip rotation exercise. The configuration of the fourth range controller is similar to that of the third range controller, providing the user with the ability to selectively adjust the resistance applied during the hip rotation exercise.

[0040] To simultaneously perform the user sits on the bench 104 with their knees under the stabilizing pads 114. The user holds the handles 112 with their hands wider than shoulder- width apart. The user starts pulling the handles 112 down, engaging their upper back to pull the handles 112 towards the chest. At the same time, the user initiates the hip rotation by rotating their lower body in a desired direction. The hips of the user pivot while the upper body performs the lat-pull down movement. Thereafter, the user slowly releases the handles 112 to return it to its starting position with the arms fully extended, while simultaneously rotating the hips back to its neutral position.

[0041] As can be appreciated that performing the lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises simultaneously engages multiple muscle groups across both the upper and lower body. The lat-pull down exercise primarily targets the latissimus dorsi (lats), upper back, biceps, and shoulders, while the hip rotation focuses on the core, hip flexors, and lower back. This integrated movement enhances overall body coordination and strength by requiring the user to stabilize their torso and lower body while activating both the back and core muscles. The combination of these two movements challenges the muscles to work in synergy, promoting greater functional strength, improved muscle endurance, and better body control. The stabilizing features of the apparatus 100, such as the adjustable chest andstabilizing pads 114, ensure that the user remains securely positioned while effectively engaging these muscle groups in a fluid, controlled manner.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 (100) configured to facilitate lat-pull down exercise with hip rotation exercise simultaneously, the apparatus (100) comprising: a. a base frame (102); b. a bench (104) configured over the base frame (102) to allow a user to sit thereon while performing exercises; c. a set of a pair of stabilizing pads (114) attached below the bench (104); and d. a handlebar (110) moveable with a set of gripping handles (112).

2. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stabilizing pads (114) are configured to secure thighs in place to stabilize the legs of the user and prevent unwanted movement during the hip rotation exercise.

3. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gripping handles (112) allow the user in a seated position to hold the handles while performing the lat-pull down exercise.

4. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (122) configured to control angular movement of the bench (104) during the hip rotation exercise.

5. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a second range controller (120) configured to control a motion of the gripping handles (112) during the lat-pull down exercise.

6. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a first weight stack (116) and a second weight stack (118) configured to provide adjustable resistance.

7. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bench (104) includes a variable adjustment mechanism (98) that will allow users of various sizes and heights to adjust the machine to their sizes.

8. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stabilizing pads (114) include an adjustable mechanism (94) for stabilizing the lower body throughout the legs.

9. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the first weight stack (116) is configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing lat-pull down exercise.

10. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second weight stack (118) is configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing hip rotation exercise.

11. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first range controller (120) is configured to limit movement of the second weight stack (118) during the hip rotation exercise.

12. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second range controller (122) is configured to limit movement of the first weight stack (116) during the lat-pull down exercise.

13. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a vertical frame (108) erected over a rear end of the base frame (102), wherein the handlebar (110) is movably coupled to the vertical frame (108).

14. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a footrest (106) configured in front of the bench (104) to allow the user to place their foot thereon while performing exercises.

15. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an adjustable chest pad (124) attached at one side of the bench (104), wherein the chest pad (124) is configured to provide additional support and stability to the upper body during the lat-pull down and hip rotation exercises.

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