Apparatus to facilitate leg press exercises and chest press exercises

Abstract

An apparatus designed to enhance the effectiveness of leg press exercises by incorporating dynamic movements that coordinate both the upper and lower body. The apparatus allows users to perform integrated leg press and chest press exercises, providing a comprehensive solution for lower body strength training. The apparatus includes a base platform with a seat and adjustable backrest to support the user in a seated position, ensuring a comfortable and healthy posture. Foot pedals are configured to move between two vertical positions in response to the user's leg movements, allowing for customizable resistance and optimal muscle engagement. Additionally, the apparatus includes a pair of handles for performing chest press exercises, adjustable to accommodate different body sizes. With weight stacks and range controllers to adjust resistance and motion, the apparatus offers a safe, efficient, and holistic approach to strength training, enhancing neuromuscular coordination and promoting natural, functional movements.

Description

APPARATUS TO FACILITATE LEG PRESS EXERCISES AND CHEST PRESSEXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present invention pertains to an apparatus configured to facilitate leg press and chest press exercises, improving effectiveness of the exercises in targeting multiple muscle groups simultaneously.BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, the importance of physical fitness and strength training has gained significant recognition worldwide. With increasing awareness, there has been a rising demand for versatile and efficient exercise equipment that can cater to the varied needs of fitness enthusiasts. Traditional exercise machines are often limited in functionality, designed to target specific muscle groups, which requires users to transition between different machines to achieve a comprehensive workout. This not only consumes time but also necessitates significant space, making it impractical for home gyms and smaller fitness centers.

[0003] Leg press and chest press exercises are integral components of a balanced strength training program. The leg press primarily targets the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. It is essential for building lower body strength and enhancing muscular endurance. On the other hand, the chest press focuses on the upper body, engaging the deltoid muscles, triceps, and the upper pectoral muscles. Both exercises are crucial for overall strength development and muscle conditioning. However, existing exercise equipment is typically designed to facilitate either leg press or chest press exercises, not both. This leads to the necessity of multiple machines to achieve a complete workout, which can be both costly and space-consuming. Furthermore, transitioning between different machines can interrupt the workout flow, potentially diminishing the effectiveness of the exercise regimen.

[0004] Traditional leg press machines typically require users to sit with their backs supported by a seat, place their feet on a footplate, and press against resistance provided by a weight stack. This design aims to strengthen lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. However, these machines often limit natural joint and muscle movement, potentially causing stress on the knees or hips. Incorrect foot placement can lead to excessive shear forces on the knees or strain on the hips, especially if the range of motion is too deep. Additionally, poor posture or using excessive weights can increase pressure on the lower back.SUMMARY

[0005] There is a need for an exercise equipment that integrates the functionalities of leg press exercise with other exercises for proper full-body conditioning of users. Such an exercise machine would not only provide a cost-effective and space-saving solution but also enhance the efficiency of workouts by enabling simultaneous targeting of multiple muscle groups. The present invention addresses these challenges by providing an apparatus configured to facilitate both leg press and chest press exercises. This apparatus is designed to offer enhanced effectiveness in muscle engagement, allowing users to perform a comprehensive workout with a single piece of equipment.

[0006] An objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus designed to enable users to perform leg press exercises in conjunction with chest press exercises, thereby promoting greater muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body and upper body muscles.

[0007] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus configured to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups by aligning more closely with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement for the user.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that promotes the integration of leg press and chest press exercises, thereby activating the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, deltoids, triceps, pectoral and other muscles.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to simulate natural, functional movements of the human body, enhancing neuromuscular coordination, improving balance, and reducing the risk of injury by training the body in a more holistic manner, rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial patterns.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that improves both the effectiveness and applicability of leg press and chest press exercises, offering a more holistic and functional approach to strength training.

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

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

[0013] Another objective of the present invention 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 invention pertains to an apparatus designed to enhance the effectiveness of leg press exercises by incorporating dynamic movement and coordination between the upper body and the lower body. The apparatus enables users to perform leg press exercises integrated with chest press exercises, providing an innovative solution for comprehensive lower body strength training. The apparatus includes a base platform designed to rest on a ground surface, with a seat mounted on the base platform to support a user in a seated position. The apparatus may include a backrest positioned at the rear side of the seat to support the back of the user in the seated position. The backrest may either be aligned along the vertical direction or inclined relative to the vertical direction to ensure that when the user occupies the seat, their back is aligned with the vertical direction, allowing the user to perform the exercise in a healthy and comfortable sitting posture. Both the seat and the backrest may be cushioned and adjustable both horizontally and vertically to accommodate users of various sizes, optimizing comfort and effectiveness.

[0015] The apparatus includes at least a pair of foot pedals, each adapted to support the foot of the user. The foot pedals are configured to move between a first vertical position and a second vertical position in response to a load applied by the user’s legs while being seated on the seat. The foot pedals are arranged at the front portion of the seat, positioned lower than the seat in the vertical direction, and hingedly move between the first vertical position and the second vertical position along a linear path when the load is applied. The foot pedals are designed for the user to rest their feet against them and apply the load by engaging leg muscles such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, to perform leg press exercises by moving the foot pedals between the first vertical position and the second vertical position in a repeated manner. The foot pedals may be adapted to remain in the first vertical position and move towards the second vertical position only when sufficient load is applied by the user’s feet. The foot pedals may be adjustable in position, allowing users to customize their positioning for optimal comfort and effectiveness according to their body size.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the foot pedals may be integrated together to form a single footrest configured to move between the first vertical position and the second vertical position, in response to the load applied by the user’s legs, to facilitate the leg press exercises.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention , the apparatus may include a first weight stack configured to adjust the resistance for the movement of the foot pedals, allowing users to customize the intensity of the leg press exercise according to their fitness level. A first range controller may be configured to adjust or limit the range of motion of thefoot pedals between the first vertical position and the second vertical position, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement of the foot pedals that could lead to discomfort or injury. The first range controller allows users to fine-tune the range of motion for the foot pedals based on their specific needs.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a pair of handles configured to move hingedly about a pivot axis to allow the user to perform chest press exercises. Each handle may include a gripping portion adapted to be held by the user when seated and moved from a retracted position to an extended position in response to a load applied by the user through the gripping portion while seated. The handles may be arranged at the front portion of the seat, such that the gripping portions are located at a chest region or mid-pectoral region of the user occupying the seat. The handles may be adapted to move hingedly along a predefined path from the retracted position to the extended position when the load is applied to the gripping portions. The handles are designed for the user to grab the gripping portions and apply the load by engaging upper body muscles such as the deltoids, triceps, biceps, and pectoral muscles to perform chest / shoulder press exercises by repeatedly moving the handles between the retracted and extended positions. The handles may be adapted to remain in the retracted position and move towards the extended position only when sufficient load is applied by the user. The handles are also adjustable in position to accommodate users of varying body sizes, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness during use.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portions may be equipped with a cushioned layer formed of anti-slip material to provide proper grip for the user’s hands and facilitate safe and efficient performance of the chest press exercises.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a second weight stack to adjust the resistance for the movement of the handles, allowing users to tailor the intensity of their workout according to their fitness level. Additionally, the apparatus may include a second range controller that adjusts or limits the movement of the handles between the retracted and extended positions. This ensures the user’s safety and comfort by preventing excessive movement of the handles, which could cause discomfort or injury while also allowing users to fine-tune the range of motion of the handles to meet their specific needs.

[0021] To perform the integrated workout, the user can begin by adjusting the starting positions of the seat and the backrest based on their specific requirements. The user can then select the desired weight from any or a combination of the first weight stack and the second weight stack, based on their intensity preferences, to customize the resistance for the movement of the foot pedals and the handles, respectively. The user can then perform the leg press exerciseby pushing the foot pedals from the first vertical position to the second vertical position. Additionally or alternatively, after completing one range of motion of the leg press exercise, i.e., after the movement of the foot pedals from the first vertical position and the second vertical position, or vice versa, the user can transition into the chest / shoulder press exercises by engaging their core and upper body muscles, resulting in the movement of the handles from the retracted position to the extended position. This setup promotes greater muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body muscles and upper body muscles, providing a holistic approach to strength training. The apparatus is designed to align with human biomechanics, promoting multi-planar movement and simulating natural, functional movements such as twisting and bending. This enhances neuromuscular coordination, improves balance, and reduces the risk of injury by training the body in a more natural and functional manner, rather than imposing rigid, artificial movement patterns.

[0022] In an embodiment, the backrest may be equipped with a pair of shoulder pads arranged on lateral sides of the backrest to stabilize the user and prevent them from falling off during the exercise.

[0023] 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

[0024] 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.

[0025] FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary perspective views of an apparatus for facilitating leg press exercises with improved effectiveness, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary front view of the apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIGs. 4A to 4B illustrate additional exemplary views of the apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIGs. 5A to 5B illustrate other additional exemplary views of the apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] FIGs. 6A to 6B illustrate additional exemplary views of the apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] 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.

[0031] Embodiments described here relate to an exercise machine (also referred to as “apparatus” herein) designed to improve the effectiveness of leg press exercises by incorporating dynamic movements that engage coordination between the upper body, core, and lower body. The exercise machine allows users to perform leg press exercises in conjunction with chest press exercises, offering a novel approach to comprehensive lower body strength training. The integration of leg press and chest press exercises enhances neuromuscular control and coordination between upper and lower body movements. The exercise machine also increases core engagement to stabilize the torso during dual-force exertion. Additionally, the exercise machine enables users to perform workouts that mimic real-world movements, such as lifting objects while squatting, thereby improving practical strength and overall functional fitness. The apparatus incorporates adjustable components to accommodate different user heights and body types, ensuring a comfortable and effective workout experience for all users. Furthermore, the apparatus is engineered to provide smooth and controlled motion, minimizing the risk of injury and maximizing the benefits of the workout. By combining leg press and chest press functionalities in one piece of equipment, the apparatus promises to revolutionize the way strength training exercises are performed, providing a convenient, efficient, and effective solution for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike.

[0032] FIGs. 1 to 6 illustrate various exemplary views of an exercise machine 100, specifically designed to integrate leg press exercises with chest / shoulder press exercises. This exercise machine 100 is configured to optimize the effectiveness of leg press exercises by incorporating dynamic movements that coordinate the upper body, core, and lower body. The apparatus 100 includes a base platform 102, which is designed to rest securely on the ground surface, providing a stable foundation. Additionally, the apparatus 100 features a seat 104 mounted on the base platform 102 to support a user in a seated position.

[0033] The apparatus 100 also includes a backrest 106 positioned at the rear of the seat 104 to support the user’s back in the seated position. The backrest 106 can be aligned eithervertically or inclined relative to the vertical direction, ensuring that when the user occupies the seat 104, their spine is properly aligned to maintain a healthy and comfortable posture during exercise. Both the seat 104 and the backrest 106 are cushioned and adjustable, both horizontally and vertically, to accommodate users of various body sizes, optimizing comfort and effectiveness.

[0034] The apparatus 100 includes a set of foot pedals 108 designed to support the user’s feet in the seated position. The foot pedals 108 are configured to hingedly move between a first vertical position and a second vertical position in response to a load applied by the user’s legs while seated. Positioned at the front of the seat 104, the foot pedals 108 are located lower than the seat 104 in the vertical direction. The foot pedals 108 are designed to move along a linear path between the first and second vertical positions upon the application of a load by the user.

[0035] The foot pedals 108 allow the user to rest their feet against them and engage their leg muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, resulting in resistancebased movement from the first vertical position to the second vertical position. Thus, the foot pedals 108 assist the user in efficiently performing leg press exercises. The foot pedals 108 remain in the first vertical position until sufficient load is applied by the user’s legs to move them to the second vertical position. Additionally, the foot pedals 108 are adjustable, enabling the user to customize their positioning for optimal comfort and effectiveness based on their body size. In an exemplary embodiment, the foot pedals 108 may be integrated into a single footrest, which moves between the first and second vertical positions in response to the load applied by the user’s legs, facilitating leg press exercises.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a first weight stack 108- 1 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the movement of the foot pedals 108 between its first and second vertical positions. This first weight stack 108-1 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the foot pedals 108 to their individual fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The first weight stack 108-1 allows the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the foot pedals 108 during the leg press exercise. The foot pedals 108 are connected to the first weight stack 108-1 through a cable and pulley system, ensuring that the foot pedals 108 remain in the first vertical position until the user applies sufficient load through their legs to exceed the resistance of the selected weight, causing the foot pedals 108 to move toward the second vertical position, which is lower than the first vertical position.

[0037] The apparatus 100 includes a first range controller 120, which governs the range of motion of the foot pedals 108. This first range controller limits the movement of the foot pedals108 between its first and second vertical positions, ensuring that the foot pedals 108 do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This function helps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of motion of the foot pedals 108 based on their preferences. The first range controller 120 is essential for preventing excessive movement of the foot pedals 108, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the foot pedals’ motion, the first range controller 120 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 120 may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member placed over them. This blocking member contains a track mounted on a support frame, guiding the movement of the foot pedals 106 along its predefined path between the first and second vertical positions. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the foot pedals 108. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved along it and securely fixed in place by engaging one of these slots. As the user completes the leg press motion, the first range controller 120 prevents the foot pedals 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.

[0039] The exercise machine 100 includes a pair of handles 110 positioned at the front of the seat 104, designed to move hingedly about a pivot axis to enable the user to perform chest / shoulder press exercises. Each handle 110 may include a gripping portion 112, intended to be held or grasped by the user’s palms while seated on the seat 104. The handles 110 are adapted to hinge between a retracted position and an extended position in response to a load applied to the gripping portions 112 by the user. Positioned at the front of the seat 104, the gripping portions 112 are located at the chest or mid-pectoral region of the user occupying the seat 104.

[0040] The handles 110 are configured for the user to grip the corresponding gripping portions 112 and engage upper body muscles such as the deltoids, triceps, biceps, and pectoral muscles, allowing for efficient performance of chest / shoulder press exercises. The handles 110 remain in the retracted position until sufficient load is applied by the user to move them to the extended position. They are also adjustable to accommodate users of varying body sizes, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness during use. The gripping portions 112 of the handles 110 may be equipped with a cushioned layer made of anti-slip material, providing a secure grip for the user’s hands and facilitating safe and efficient performance of chest press exercises.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a second weight stack 110-1 that adjusts the resistance for the movement of the handles 110 between their retracted and extended positions. This allows users to tailor the resistance for chest press exercises based on their fitness level. The second weight stack 110-1 enables users to select a desired weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the handles 110 during the chest press exercise. The handles 110 are operatively connected to the second weight stack 110-1 through a cable and pulley mechanism, ensuring that the handles remain in the retracted position until the user exerts sufficient force to overcome the resistance and move them toward the extended position.

[0042] The apparatus 100 is also equipped with a second range controller 121, which governs the range of motion of the handles 110, limiting their movement between the retracted and extended positions. This feature ensures that the handles 110 do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit, minimizing the risk of injury and allowing users to customize the range of motion based on personal preferences. The second range controller 121 helps prevent excessive movement of the handles 110, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or injury. By offering precise control over the range of motion, the second range controller 121 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or injury concerns.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 121 may have a design similar to the first range controller 120. The second range controller 121 may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member positioned over them. This blocking member contains a track mounted on a support frame to guide the movement of the handles 110 along the predefined path between the retracted and extended positions. The blocking member may also have a set of slots to define and limit the range of motion. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved and secured in place by engaging one of these slots. During the exercise, the second range controller 121 prevents the handles 110 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled motion throughout the workout.

[0044] During the exercise, the user may first adjust the starting positions of the seat 104 and the backrest 106 to meet their specific requirements. The user can then select the desired weight from either or both of the first and second weight stacks, based on their exercise intensity preferences, to customize the resistance for the movement of the foot pedals 108 and the handles 110. The user may then perform the leg press exercise by pushing the foot pedals 108 from the first vertical position to the second vertical position. Furthermore, after completing one range of motion of the leg press exercise, i.e., after the movement of the foot pedals 108 from the first vertical position to the second vertical position, or vice versa, the usercan transition to the chest / shoulder press exercises by engaging their core and upper body muscles, moving the handles 110 from the retracted position to the extended position. Thus, the apparatus 100 enables the user to perform the leg press exercises either individually or in combination with the chest press exercises. Subsequently, the user can repeat the leg press and chest press exercises to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups of their upper and lower body with improved effectiveness. This integrated exercise promotes muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body and the upper body simultaneously. The apparatus 100 is specifically designed to align with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement that simulates natural, functional activities like twisting and bending. This holistic approach improves neuromuscular coordination, enhances balance, and reduces the risk of injury by encouraging natural, functional movement patterns rather than rigid, isolated exercises.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 100 may include a lap band or belt attached to the seat 104 to secure the user’s torso during the exercise, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring safety. For further support, a pair of shoulder pads 114 may be positioned on lateral sides of the backrest 106, offering support to the user’s shoulders and preventing them from sliding off the seat 104 during the workout. The apparatus 100 may also include a pair of grab rails 116 arranged on the lateral sides of the seat 104 to allow the user to hold / grip the grab rails 116 during individual performance of the leg press exercise.

[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 (100) configured to facilitate leg press exercises and chest press exercises, the apparatus (100) comprising: a. a base platform (102); b. a seat (104) mounted on the base platform (102); c. at least a pair of foot pedals (108); d. a first weight stack (108-1); e. a pair of handles (110); and f. a second weight stack (110-1).

2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a backrest (106) positioned at the rear side of the seat (104) to support the back of the user in the seated position.

3. The apparatus (100) of claim 2, wherein the seat (104) and the backrest (106) are cushioned and adjustable both horizontally and vertically to accommodate users of various sizes.

4. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the foot pedals (108) are arranged at the front portion of the seat (104), positioned lower than the seat (104) in the vertical direction.

5. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (120) configured to adjust or limit the range of motion of the foot pedals (108) between the first vertical position and the second vertical position.

6. The apparatus (100) of claim 5, wherein the first range controller (120) comprises a blocking member having a plurality of slots and a locking bar configured to engage with the slots to limit the movement of the foot pedals (108).

7. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein each handle (110) includes a gripping portion (112) adapted to be held by the user and moved from a retracted position to an extended position in response to a load applied by the user through the gripping portion (112) while seated.

8. The apparatus (100) of claim 6, wherein the gripping portions (112) are located at a chest region or mid-pectoral region of the user occupying the seat (104).

9. The apparatus (100) of claim 6, wherein the gripping portions (112) are equipped with a cushioned layer formed of anti-slip material.

10. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second range controller (121) that adjusts or limits the movement of the handles (110) between the retracted and extended positions.

11. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the apparatus (100) is designed to align with human biomechanics, promoting multi-planar movement.

12. The apparatus (100) of claim 2, further comprising a pair of shoulder pads (114) arranged on lateral sides of the backrest (106) to stabilize the user and prevent them from falling off during the exercise.

13. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a pair of grab rails (116) arranged on the lateral sides of the seat (104).

14. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the at least a pair of foot pedals (108) are configured to move independently to facilitate unilateral leg press movement.

15. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the apparatus (100) is configured to enable a user to perform the leg press exercise by pushing the foot pedals (108) and, subsequently or simultaneously, perform the chest press exercise by moving the handles (110) in an integrated movement.

16. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the foot pedals (108) are configured to move to facilitate a leg press exercise.

17. The apparatus (100) of claim 16, wherein the foot pedals (108) are configured to hingedly move between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

18. The apparatus (100) of claim 16, wherein the movement is in response to a load applied by the user’s legs while being seated on the seat (104).

19. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (108-1) is configured to adjust the resistance for the movement of the foot pedals (108).

20. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the pair of handles (110) is configured to move hingedly about a pivot axis to allow the user to perform chest press exercises.

21. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the second weight stack (110-1) is configured to adjust the resistance for the movement of the handles (110).

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