Apparatus to facilitate knee flexion and lateral trunk flexion exercises

Abstract

An apparatus for enhancing knee flexion and extension exercises by integrating dynamic movement and coordination across the upper body, core, and lower body. The apparatus includes a base platform with an adjustable backrest that supports the user's back. The apparatus includes multiple adjustable lever pads for knee extension and flexion exercises, each with customizable resistance via weight stacks and range controllers to ensure safety and comfort. A third lever pad allows for lateral hip flexion exercises, promoting engagement of core and hip muscles. These components are designed to accommodate users of varying sizes and fitness levels, while the apparatus facilitates multi-planar movement, improving neuromuscular coordination, balance, and reducing the risk of injury through natural, functional exercise patterns.

Description

APPARATUS TO FACILITATE KNEE FLEXION AND LATERAL TRUNKFLEXION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to an apparatus configured to facilitate knee flexion and lateral trunk flexion exercises, offering enhanced effectiveness in targeting multiple muscle groups simultaneously.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional exercise machines, such as those used for leg extensions and leg curls, are typically designed to isolate specific muscle groups, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings. These machines are effective for strengthening individual muscles but fail to simulate the complex, multi -joint movements that occur in everyday functional activities or in athletic performance. Traditional machines often operate on fixed movement paths, which, although useful for isolating muscle groups, can place unnatural stress on the knee joint, particularly if the alignment is incorrect. Such rigid, linear movement patterns may also result in compensatory movements that strain surrounding structures, limiting the long-term effectiveness and safety of the exercises. Moreover, these machines do not engage other crucial muscle groups, such as the core, obliques, or stabilizers, which are essential for improving overall strength, stability, and injury prevention. As a result, these machines tend to reduce the functional applicability of the exercises, failing to promote a holistic approach to fitness that incorporates natural, multi -joint movements.

[0003] Another limitation of existing equipment is the isolation of muscle groups by targeting either the lower body or the trunk in separate exercises. This segmentation not only increases the total workout time but also overlooks the interconnectedness of muscle groups used in daily activities. Movements like twisting, bending, and rotating require the coordination of both the trunk and the lower limbs. Thus, conventional exercise machines by separating these functions fail to mimic real-world motions effectively.SUMMARY

[0004] There is, therefore, a need for an apparatus that addresses the limitations of conventional exercise equipment by facilitating combining knee flexion / extension with lateraltrunk flexion into a single, integrated exercise. Such an apparatus would better align with natural human biomechanics, encouraging multi-planar, dynamic movement, and would engage a broader range of muscle groups, including the core, stabilizers, and obliques, while also strengthening the quadriceps and hamstrings. The result would be improved neuromuscular coordination, balance, and functionality, all while reducing the risk of injury by promoting more natural movement patterns. The present invention seeks to fulfill these needs by providing an apparatus that enhances the integration of knee flexion / extension and lateral trunk flexion exercises, ensuring greater overall effectiveness in training and improving functional strength.

[0005] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus designed to enable users to perform knee flexion / extension exercises in conjunction with lateral trunk flexion exercises, promoting greater muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body and core muscles.

[0006] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus configured to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups by aligning more closely with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement of the user.

[0007] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus that promotes the integration of knee flexion / extension and lateral trunk flexion exercises, thereby activating the quadriceps, hamstrings, core, obliques, and stabilizer muscles.

[0008] Another objective of the present disclosure is to simulate natural, functional movements such as twisting or bending, enhancing neuromuscular coordination, improving balance, and reducing the risk of injury by training the body in a more holistic way, rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial patterns.

[0009] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus that not only enhances the functional carryover of knee flexion exercises but also promotes overall physical fitness in a manner that more accurately mimics the complex movements of daily life.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus that improves both the effectiveness and applicability of knee flexion / extension and lateral trunk flexion exercises, offering a more holistic and functional approach to strength training.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus configured to enhance the overall user experience by enabling a more comprehensive workout.

[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus that enables users to perform lower body strengthening exercises while more accurately replicating the natural, integrated movements required for functional tasks.

[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of different heights, body types, and fitness levels, thereby promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the fitness community.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus designed to enhance the performance of knee flexion and extension exercises by incorporating dynamic movement and coordination between the upper body, core, and lower body. The apparatus includes a base platform that is adapted to be placed on a flat surface, with a backrest mounted on the base platform. The backrest is designed to support the back of a user during exercise. The backrest may be installed on the base platform such that it is inclined relative to a horizontal axis. This arrangement ensures that when the user rests their back against the backrest, their feet are positioned higher than their head. The angle of inclination of the backrest may be adjustable. Additionally, the backrest is easily adjustable both horizontally and vertically, allowing users of varying sizes to customize its position for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus includes a first lever pad positioned lower than the backrest, at one end of the backrest, to enable the user resting against the backrest to perform a knee extension exercise. In this exercise, the user can engage their legs to move the first lever pad along a predetermined path relative to their knees, thereby activating lower body muscles such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and others.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lever pad may be cushioned to improve user comfort. The first lever pad is designed to be easily adjustable in position, allowing users of various body sizes to customize its location for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may include a first weight stack configured to adjust the resistance for movement of the first lever pad, allowing users to customize the level of resistance based on their fitness levels. The apparatus may also include a first range controller that adjusts or limits the movement of the first lever pad. The first range controller ensures the user’s safety and comfort by preventing excessive movement of the lever pad, which could lead to discomfort or injury. The first range controller also allows users to fine-tune the range of motion of the first lever pad to suit their needs.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus includes a second lever pad positioned higher than the backrest, at the opposite end of the backrest, to enable the user resting on the backrest to perform a knee flexion exercise. In this exercise, the user can engage their knees to move the second lever pad by activating multiple muscle groups,such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, gracilis, sartorius, gastrocnemius, plantaris, popliteus, and others.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second lever pad may be cushioned to improve user comfort and is designed to be easily adjustable to accommodate users of varying body sizes, allowing them to customize the position for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may include a second weight stack to adjust the resistance for the movement of the second lever pad, allowing users to tailor the resistance to their fitness level. In an exemplary embodiment, the second weight stack may be integrated with the first weight stack for convenience.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may also include a second range controller that adjusts or limits the movement of the second lever pad, ensuring the user’s safety and comfort by preventing excessive motion that could lead to discomfort or injury. The second range controller also enables users to fine-tune the range of motion of the second lever pad according to their specific needs.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus includes a third lever pad positioned at the opposite end of the backrest from the first lever pad. The third lever pad may extend along the longitudinal direction and is oriented orthogonally to the direction of the first and second lever pads. The third lever pad is designed to allow the user, while resting on the backrest, to perform lateral hip flexion exercises. During this exercise, the user can rotate their upper body around their torso against the third lever pad, thereby engaging multiple muscle groups such as the hip muscles, obliques, stabilizers, and others.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the third lever pad may be cushioned to improve user comfort and is designed to be easily adjustable in position, enabling users of varying body sizes to customize its position for optimal comfort and effectiveness. The third lever pad may be positioned on either side of the backrest to allow the user to perform a left-side or right-side lateral hip flexion exercise, depending on their preference.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may include a third weight stack that adjusts the resistance for the movement of the third lever pad, enabling users to customize the resistance according to their fitness level.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may also include a third range controller that adjusts or limits the movement of the third lever pad, ensuring the user’s safety and comfort by preventing excessive motion that could causediscomfort or injury. The third range controller also enables users to fine-tune the range of motion of the third lever pad to suit their specific needs.

[0026] In operation, the user can begin by adjusting the positions of the backrest, the first lever pad, and the second lever pad. The user can also choose to adjust the positioning of the third lever pad to either the left or right side of the backrest. Subsequently, the user can perform either a knee extension or knee flexion exercise by engaging in resistance-based movement of the first or second lever pads, respectively. After completing the range of motion for either the knee extension or knee flexion exercise, the user can transition to performing the lateral hip flexion exercise by engaging their core and hip muscles, resulting in resistance-based movement of the third lever pad in a sideward direction. In this way, the apparatus facilitates the user in performing knee flexion / extension exercises integrated with lateral hip flexion exercises, promoting greater muscular coordination by engaging multiple muscle groups in the lower body and core. The apparatus is designed to strengthen several muscle groups by aligning with human biomechanics, promoting multi-planar movement, and simulating natural, functional movements such as twisting or bending. This helps improve neuromuscular coordination, enhances balance, and reduces the risk of injury by training the body in a more holistic manner, rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial patterns.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus may include a lap band or belt attached to the backrest, designed to secure the user’s torso while they are resting against the backrest, thereby preventing unwanted movement during the exercise. Additionally, the backrest may be equipped with a pair of handles, which the user can grip during exercise to prevent unwanted movement and ensure safe and efficient performance of the exercises.

[0028] 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

[0029] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus for facilitating knee flexion / extension exercises with improved effectiveness, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIGs. 2 and 3 illustrate exemplary side and front views of the apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary plan view of the apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. 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 disclosure.

[0034] Conventional exercise machines, such as those used for leg extensions and leg curls, typically target specific muscle groups like the quadriceps and hamstrings, effectively strengthening these muscles. However, they fail to replicate the complex, multi -joint movements seen in everyday activities or athletic performance. These machines often rely on fixed movement paths that, while isolating muscles, can put unnatural stress on the knee joint, especially if alignment is incorrect, and may lead to compensatory movements that strain surrounding structures. This limits both the long-term effectiveness and safety of the exercises. Additionally, these machines do not engage important muscle groups like the core, obliques, or stabilizers, which are essential for overall strength, stability, and injury prevention. As a result, they do not promote a holistic approach to fitness or functional movement. Furthermore, by isolating muscle groups, focusing separately on the lower body or trunk, existing equipment increases workout time and overlooks the natural interconnection of muscles required for real- life movements such as twisting, bending, and rotating, which involve both the trunk and lower limbs.

[0035] Embodiments described here relate to an exercise machine (also referred to as “apparatus” herein) that enables users to perform knee flexion / extension exercises integrated with lateral trunk flexion exercises, fostering greater muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body and core muscles. The exercise machine is designed to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups by aligning with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement. The exercise machine promotes the integration of knee flexion / extension andlateral trunk flexion, activating key muscle groups such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, core, obliques, and stabilizers. By simulating natural, functional movements like twisting and bending, the exercise machine enhances neuromuscular coordination, improves balance, and reduces the risk of injury through a more holistic approach to training, as opposed to rigid, isolated movements. Additionally, the exercise machine aims to improve the functional carryover of knee flexion exercises while supporting overall physical fitness, more accurately mimicking the complex movements of daily life. The exercise machine offers a more effective and applicable approach to strength training, providing a comprehensive workout experience that replicates natural, integrated movements required for functional tasks. Furthermore, the exercise machine is designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of various heights, body types, and fitness levels, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for a wide range of users.

[0036] FIGs. 1 to 4 illustrate various exemplary views of an exercise machine 100 designed to integrate knee flexion / extension exercises with lateral hip flexion exercises. The exercise machine 100 is configured to optimize the performance of knee flexion and extension exercises by incorporating dynamic movement and coordinating the upper body, core, and lower body. The apparatus 100 includes a base platform 102, which is intended to be placed on a flat surface, with a backrest 104 securely mounted on the base platform 102. The backrest 104 is specifically designed to support the user's back during exercise. It can be positioned on the base platform 102 at an inclination relative to a horizontal axis, ensuring that when the user reclines against it, their feet are positioned higher than their head. The inclination angle of the backrest 104 is adjustable to accommodate individual user preferences. Furthermore, the backrest 104 can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically, offering a high degree of customization to suit users of varying body sizes, ensuring comfort and effectiveness during exercises.

[0037] The apparatus 100 includes a first lever pad 106, positioned lower than the backrest 104 at one end of the backrest 104. The first lever pad 106 enables the user, while reclining against the backrest 104, to perform a knee extension exercise. In this exercise, the user engages their legs to activate the first lever pad 106, causing it to move along a predetermined path relative to the user’s knees. This movement activates key muscle groups in the lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and other stabilizing muscles, promoting strength and flexibility. The first lever pad 106 may be cushioned to enhance comfort during the exercise. Additionally, the position of the first lever pad 106 is easily adjustable, enabling users to modify its placement to suit their body size, providing a customized and comfortable experience that maximizes exercise effectiveness.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a first weight stack 106- 1, allowing users to adjust the resistance for the movement of the first lever pad 106. This resistance can be tailored according to the user’s fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The first weight stack 106-1 enables the user to select the desired weight to adjust the resistance offered to the first lever pad 106 during the knee extension exercise. The first lever pad 106 may be connected to the first weight stack 106-1 via a cable and pulley mechanism, allowing the first lever pad 106 to remain fixed in position and rotate about the first axis only when the user exerts a force on the first lever pad 106 through their legs that exceeds the resistance provided by the selected weight.

[0039] The apparatus 100 may include a first range controller 106-2 that governs the range of motion of the first lever pad 106, restricting its movement to ensure the lever pad does not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This minimizes the risk of injury and allows users to customize the range of motion according to their preferences. The first range controller 106- 2 helps prevent excessive movement that could lead to discomfort or injury. By providing precise control over the range of motion, the first range controller 106-2 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or injury concerns.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 106-2 may include blocking tracks with a blocking member positioned over them. The blocking member includes a track mounted on a support frame to guide the movement of the first lever pad 106 about the first axis. The blocking member may also feature a set of slots that define the range of motion of the first lever pad 106, limiting its movement. A locking bar may be slidably attached to the track and moved along it to secure the adjusted position by engaging one of the slots. During the exercise, the first range controller 106-2 limits the movement of the first lever pad 106 when the user reaches the end of the range of motion of the knee extension exercise, preventing excessive or undesirable movement.

[0041] The apparatus 100 includes a second lever pad 108, positioned higher than the backrest 104, at the opposite end of the backrest 104. The second lever pad 108 enables the user to perform knee flexion exercises while resting on the backrest 104. During this exercise, the user engages their knees to move the second lever pad 108, activating multiple muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, gracilis, sartorius, gastrocnemius, plantaris, popliteus, and others, contributing to improved lower body strength and flexibility. Similar to the first lever pad 106, the second lever pad 108 is cushioned for user comfort. The second lever pad 108 is also designed to be easily adjustable in position, allowing users to modify itsplacement based on their body size and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and effective workout.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a second weight stack 108-1 that allows users to adjust the resistance for the movement of the second lever pad 108. This resistance can be tailored according to the user’s fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The second weight stack 108-1 enables the user to select the desired weight to adjust the resistance offered to the second lever pad 108 during the knee extension exercise. The second lever pad 108 may be connected to the second weight stack 108-1 via a cable and pulley mechanism, allowing the second lever pad 108 to remain fixed in position and rotate about the first axis only when the user exerts a force on the second lever pad 108 through their legs that exceeds the resistance provided by the selected weight. In an exemplary embodiment, the second weight stack 108-1 may be integrated with the first weight stack 106- 1 for convenience and ease of use.

[0043] The apparatus 100 may include a second range controller 108-2 that governs the range of motion of the second lever pad 108, restricting its movement to ensure the second lever pad 108 does not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This minimizes the risk of injury and allows users to customize the range of motion of the second lever pad 108 according to their preferences. The second range controller 108-2 helps prevent excessive movement that could lead to discomfort or injury. By providing precise control over the range of motion, the second range controller 108-2 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or injury concerns. In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 108-2 may have a similar configuration to the first range controller 106-2.

[0044] The apparatus 100 also includes a third lever pad 110, which is positioned at the opposite end of the backrest 104 from the first and second lever pads 106, 108. This third lever pad 110 extends along the longitudinal direction and is oriented orthogonally to the direction of extension of the first and second lever pads 106, 108. The third lever pad 110 is designed to facilitate lateral hip flexion exercises. While resting on the backrest 104, the user can rotate their upper body around their torso against the third lever pad 110, thereby engaging muscles such as the hip muscles, obliques, stabilizers, and others. This exercise promotes rotational strength and flexibility, which is important for functional movement and overall mobility.

[0045] The third lever pad 110 may be cushioned to ensure the user’s comfort during the exercise. Like the other lever pads, the third lever pad 110 is easily adjustable in position, allowing users of various body sizes to customize its placement for optimal comfort andexercise effectiveness. The third lever pad 110 can be positioned on either lateral side of the backrest 104, providing the user with the option to perform lateral hip flexion exercises on either the left or right side, depending on their preference.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a third weight stack 110- 1 that allows users to adjust the resistance for the movement of the third lever pad 110. This resistance can be tailored according to the user’s fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The third weight stack 110-1 enables the user to select the desired weight to adjust the resistance offered to the third lever pad 110 during the knee extension exercise. The third lever pad 110 may be connected to the third weight stack 110-1 via a cable and pulley mechanism, allowing the third lever pad 110 to remain fixed in position and rotate about the first axis only when the user exerts a force on the third lever pad 110 through their legs that exceeds the resistance provided by the selected weight.

[0047] To further enhance safety and comfort, the apparatus 100 may also include a third range controller 110-2 that adjusts or limits the range of motion of the third lever pad 110. The third range controller 110-2 ensures that the lever pad does not move excessively, preventing potential injury or discomfort. The third range controller 110-2 also provides users with the ability to fine-tune the range of motion, allowing for a more personalized and effective exercise experience.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the third range controller 110-2 may include blocking tracks with a blocking member positioned over them. The blocking member includes a track mounted on a support frame to guide the movement of the third lever pad 110 about the first axis. The blocking member may also feature a set of slots that define the range of motion of the third lever pad 110, limiting its movement. A locking bar may be slidably attached to the track and moved along it to secure the adjusted position by engaging one of the slots. During the exercise, the third range controller 110-2 limits the movement of the third lever pad 110 when the user reaches the end of the range of motion of the knee extension exercise, preventing excessive movement and undesirable motion.

[0049] To perform the integrated exercise, the user may begin by adjusting the positions of the backrest 104, the first lever pad 106, and the second lever pad 108 to suit their body size and comfort. The user can also choose to adjust the third lever pad 110 to either the left or right side of the backrest 104, depending on the lateral hip flexion exercise they wish to perform. The user can then proceed to perform a knee extension or knee flexion exercise by engaging the first or second lever pads 106, 108, respectively, using resistance-based movements. After completing one range of motion of the knee flexion / extension exercises, the user can transitionto the lateral hip flexion exercise by engaging their core and hip muscles, causing the third lever pad 110 to move laterally. After completing one range of motion of the lateral hip flexion exercise, the user can proceed to perform the desired knee flexion / extension exercise. This combination of exercises allows the user to perform knee flexion and extension exercises integrated with lateral hip flexion movements, promoting greater muscular coordination by involving multiple muscle groups in the lower body and core. Thus, the apparatus 100 is designed to strengthen several muscle groups while aligning with human biomechanics. The apparatus 100 encourages multi-planar movement, simulating natural and functional movements such as twisting, bending, and rotating. As a result, the apparatus 100 helps improve neuromuscular coordination, enhances balance, and reduces the risk of injury by training the body in a holistic manner rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial patterns.

[0050] To further secure the user during exercise, the apparatus 100 may include a lap band or belt attached to the backrest 104. This helps keep the user’s torso securely in place while resting against the backrest 104, preventing unwanted movement during the exercises. Additionally, the backrest 104 may be equipped with a pair of handles 112, which the user can hold onto during the exercises. These handles 112 ensure that the user remains stable and safe during the performance of the exercises, enabling a more efficient and secure workout experience.

[0051] 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 knee flexion, knee extension, and lateral trunk flexion exercises, the apparatus comprising: a. a base platform (102); b. a backrest (104) mounted on the base platform (102) to support the user’s back; c. a first lever pad (106) configured to facilitate knee extension and flexion exercises; d. a second lever pad (108) configured to facilitate knee extension and flexion exercises; e. a third lever pad (110) configured to allow a user to perform lateral hip flexion exercises, wherein the first (106) and second (108) lever pads operate independently of the third lever pad (110) to promote multi -planar movement and target multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the backrest (104) is configured to be adjustable in its angle of inclination, horizontal position, and vertical position.

3. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising at least one weight stack (106-1 / 108-1) operatively connected to the first lever pad (106) and the second lever pad (108), wherein the weight stack is configured to adjust the resistance for the knee extension and flexion exercises.

4. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising at least one range controller (106-2 / 108- 2) configured to limit the range of motion of the first lever pad (106) and the second lever pad (108).

5. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a third weight stack (110-1) operatively connected to the third lever pad (110), wherein the third weight stack (110-1) is configured to adjust the resistance for the lateral hip flexion exercises.

6. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a range controller configured to limit the range of motion of the third lever pad (110).

7. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the first lever pad (106), the second lever pad (108), and the third lever pad (110) are independently adjustable in position to accommodate users of varying sizes and fitness levels.

8. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a support structure (110-2) associated with the third lever pad (110) to stabilize the user during lateral hip flexion exercises.

9. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising at least one pair of handles (112) installed on the base platform (102) for the user to grip.

10. The apparatus (100) of claim 4, wherein the at least one range controller (106-2 / 108-2) comprises a first component configured to limit knee flexion and a second component configured to limit knee extension.

Images