Exercise machine to facilitate pectoral fly to hip abduction exercises
The exercise machine integrates pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises with adjustable features to ensure proper form and reduce joint strain, enhancing muscle engagement and biomechanical efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FUNCTIONAL PATTERNS LLC
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-02
AI Technical Summary
Conventional exercise equipment fails to integrate pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises seamlessly, lacks adaptability for varying user sizes and fitness levels, and often leads to improper form and increased strain on the shoulder joints due to mismatched resistance curves and fixed motion paths.
An exercise machine that combines pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, featuring adjustable handles and abductor pads with weight stacks and range controllers to customize resistance and motion, ensuring proper form and reducing joint strain.
Enhances muscle engagement, safety, and biomechanical efficiency by allowing users to perform integrated, dynamic movements that align with natural human biomechanics, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall strength and coordination.
Smart Images

Figure US2025058807_02072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE PECTORAL FLY TO HIP ABDUCTION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present invention pertains to an exercise machine that assists users in performing pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises. These exercises target multiple muscle groups, including the chest (pectorals), shoulders (deltoids), and hip abductors, in a manner that promotes strength, flexibility, and stability.BACKGROUND
[0002] Conventional gym equipment primarily focuses on isolating single muscle groups at a time. For example, the pectoral fly exercise is typically performed using a dedicated machine or free weights that focus solely on the upper body, particularly the chest muscles. In contrast, hip abduction exercises are generally performed on machines that target the hip abductors, often utilizing resistance bands or cables. While each of these exercises is effective on its own, there is currently no equipment that integrates both movements, i.e., pectorals fly and hip abduction, into a single, seamless workout. This lack of integration makes it difficult for users to efficiently engage in multi-muscle group exercises.
[0003] Additionally, proper form is crucial for the effectiveness of these exercises. For both the pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, the individual must control the movement of both the upper and lower body simultaneously, which can be challenging without proper guidance. Without the right apparatus, users often struggle to maintain correct posture and engage the appropriate muscles, leading to suboptimal results or even injury. Existing machines designed to aid in performing these exercises either limit users to one form of movement or are overly complex and difficult to use. Furthermore, many devices fail to accommodate individuals of varying body sizes, mobility levels, or fitness capabilities, making them unsuitable for a wide range of users.
[0004] A typical pectoral fly exercise machine requires the user to sit with their back supported while gripping a pair of handles. The user then moves the handlesby bringing their arms together in front of their chest, against adjustable resistance, to perform pectoral (chest) fly exercises. However, a major drawback of conventional pectoral fly exercise machines is that the fixed path of motion of the handles does not account for variations in arm lengths, shoulder mobility, or the natural movement paths of different individuals. This lack of adaptability can lead to improper alignment and increased strain on the user's shoulder joints, particularly affecting the rotator cuff muscles. Moreover, the resistance curve of the machine, which dictates how resistance is applied as the user moves the handles, may not align with the natural strength curve of the pectoral muscles. As a result, this mismatch can create disproportionate stress at certain joint angles, especially during shoulder abduction (lifting the arm away from the body) and horizontal adduction (moving the arms toward the body from the side). These biomechanical discrepancies can contribute to discomfort, reduced effectiveness, and even injury if not properly addressed.SUMMARY
[0005] Given the above shortcomings and deficiencies of existing exercise equipment, there is a need for an exercise machine that can facilitate both pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises in a manner that enhances comfort, safety, and effectiveness. Such an exercise machine would enable users to perform exercises that engage both the upper body and the core in a dynamic, controlled manner. The present invention addresses the deficiencies of conventional exercise equipment by offering a single apparatus capable of facilitating both pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, providing versatility, safety, and a comprehensive workout. The exercise machine of the present invention provides a solution to the challenges of integrating the benefits of both pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, offering an integrated system that allows users to perform a variety of effective exercises for strength training, flexibility, and functional movement.
[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment designed to optimize muscle engagement across the upper body, core, and lower body, helping users achieve a balanced workout while minimizing the risk of improper form and injury.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that allows users to perform a pectoral fly exercise combined with a hip abduction motion, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This combination targets not only the muscles of the chest and shoulders but also the pectoral muscles and stabilizers.
[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to effectively reduce strain on the shoulder joint, particularly the rotator cuffs, during pectoral fly exercises by combining this exercise with hip abduction movements.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that promotes independent adjustments for both the pectoral fly exercise and the hip abduction exercise, enabling users to modify the intensity of each exercise based on their fitness level and training goals.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by combining a chest fly motion with a hip abduction movement, promotes functional fitness, improving strength, flexibility, coordination, and body control. The exercise machine is particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals looking to enhance their ability to perform movements that involve both pulling and throwing activities, such as in sports like tennis, basketball, and swimming.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to guide users through the proper motion, ensuring correct alignment and form, which reduces the risk of strain or injury commonly associated with improper workout techniques.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, unlike conventional equipment that may require multiple machines for different exercises, consolidates multiple exercises into a single integrated unit, providing a space-efficient solution for gyms and home fitness spaces. By integrating the pectoral fly and hip abduction movements, the exercise machine offers a comprehensive solution for users looking to improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness in a safe, controlled manner.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to enable users to perform pectoral fly exercises in conjunction with hip abduction exercises, promoting greater muscular coordination by engaging both the lower body and upper body muscles.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups by aligning more closely with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement for users.
[0015] Another obj ect 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.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that improves both the effectiveness and applicability of pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, offering a more holistic and functional approach to strength training.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to enhance the overall user experience by enabling a more comprehensive workout.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables users to perform full-body strengthening exercises while more accurately replicating the natural, integrated movements required for functional tasks.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of different heights, body types, and fitness levels, thereby promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the fitness community.
[0020] The present invention pertains to an exercise machine designed to enhance the effectiveness of pectoral fly exercises by incorporating dynamic movement and coordination between the upper body, the core and the lower body. The exercise machine enables users to perform pectoral fly exercises integratedwith hip abduction exercises, providing an innovative solution for comprehensive upper body strength training. The exercise machine offers superior performance by integrating pectoral fly exercises with hip abduction movements. This combination enhances biomechanics and functional movement by engaging more muscle groups and improving joint stability. The pectoral fly exercise effectively targets the chest, biceps, triceps, and shoulders, while the hip abduction exercise activates the lateral deltoids, stabilizers, and the core. The exercise machine also promotes efficient and natural scapular and shoulder movement.
[0021] The exercise machine includes a base platform designed to rest securely on a ground surface, with a seat mounted on the base platform to support the user in a seated position. The exercise machine may be equipped with a backrest adapted to support the user’s back in the seated position. Each of the seat and the backrest may be cushioned, and adapted to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically to accommodate users of various sizes, ensuring optimal comfort and exercise effectiveness.
[0022] The exercise machine also includes a pair of handles positioned at lateral sides of the seat. Each handle is pivotally movable between a retracted position and an extended position along a pre-defined path. In the retracted position, the handle is present at a lateral side of the seat for a user occupying the seat to easily grab said handle. In the extended position, the handle is present in front of a chest area or a mid-chest area of the user occupying the seat. The handles may be movable from the retracted position to the extended position only when the user present in the seated position applies a pulling load to each of the handles. The user may move the handles from the retracted position to the extended position by engaging chest and shoulder muscles such as rotator cuffs, deltoids, biceps, triceps, and the likes, to bring their arms together in front of their chest while gripping the handles.
[0023] In some embodiments, each handle may be hingedly rotate about a corresponding pivot axis to move between the retracted position and the extended position. In some embodiments, the handles may be adapted to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically to allow users of varying sizes to perform the pectoral fly exercise efficiently, while optimizing comfort and effectiveness. In someembodiments, each handle may be equipped with a cushioned, anti-slip layer to ensure a secure grip, facilitating safe and efficient performance during the exercise.
[0024] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack designed to adjust the resistance for movement of the handles between the retracted position and the extended position, enabling users to customize the intensity of the pectoral fly exercises based on their fitness levels. A first range controller may be incorporated to adjust or limit range of pivot motion of the handles between the retracted position and the extended position, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement of the handles that could cause discomfort or injury. The first range controller allows users to fine-tune the range of motion for handles according to their specific needs.
[0025] In some embodiments, the first weight stack may be connected to each of the handles through a cable and pulley mechanism to allow the handles to move from the retracted position to the extended position only when sufficient pulling load is applied by the user. The first weight stack may be coupled to the handles such that the handles automatically return to the retracted position when the user stops applying the pulling load to the handles.
[0026] The exercise machine also includes a pair of abductor pads positioned in front of the seat to support the user’s knees from the sides, when the user is present in the seated position. Each of the abductor pads may be configured to move between a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position spaced apart from the first horizontal position, in response to the user’s leg movements in the lateral direction. When the abductor pad is present in the first horizontal position, it supports the knee of the user in a relaxed manner. In the second horizontal position, the abductor pad moves in the lateral direction based on application of a pushing load thereto by the user.
[0027] In some embodiments, each of the abductor pads may be adapted to hingedly move between the first horizontal position and the second horizontal position about a corresponding vertical pivot axis. Positioned either at the same level or higher than the seat at a front portion thereof, the abductor pads move alonga linear path when the user applies a pushing load by moving their knees away from their body to perform hip abduction exercises.
[0028] In some embodiments, the abductor pads may be configured for users to rest the sides of their knees against them, and apply the pushing load by engaging their hip and core muscles, including the lateral deltoids, gluteal muscles, hip abductors, stabilizers, and other core muscles, to result in movement of the abductor pads from the first horizontal position to the second horizontal position. The abductor pads may be repeatedly moved between the first and second horizontal positions to enable the user to perform hip abduction exercises.
[0029] In some embodiments, the abductor pads may be cushioned to improve comfort and prevent injury. The abductor pads may also be adjustable along the horizontal and vertical directions to fit users of different body sizes. The abductor pads are designed to engage side portions of the user’s knees during the hip abduction exercise.
[0030] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may also include a second weight stack, designed to adjust the resistance for the movement of each of the abductor pads between the first and second horizontal positions. This allows users to customize the intensity for performing hip abduction exercises. The exercise machine may also be equipped with a second range controller adapted to adjust or limit the range of motion of the abductor pads between the first and second horizontal positions, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement that could cause discomfort or injury. The second range controller allows users to fine-tune the movement of the abductor pads to meet their specific needs.
[0031] In some embodiments, the second weight stack may be coupled to each of the abductor pads such that abductor pads move from the first horizontal position to the second horizontal position only when a sufficient pushing load is applied to the abductor pads by the user. The second weight stack may be operatively coupled with the abductor pads such that the abductor pads revert to the corresponding first horizontal position when the user stops applying the pushing load thereto.
[0032] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed descriptionof preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] 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.
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary front perspective view of an exercise machine for facilitating pectoral fly exercises integrated with hip abduction exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary rear perspective view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary side view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0037] 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.
[0038] Embodiments described herein relate to an exercise machine (also referred to as “apparatus” herein) designed to improve the effectiveness of pectoral fly exercises by incorporating dynamic movements that engage coordination between the upper body and core. The exercise machine allows users to perform pectoral fly exercises in conjunction with hip abduction exercises, offering a novel approach to comprehensive upper body strength training. The integration of pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises enhances neuromuscular control and coordination between the upper body and hip movements.
[0039] FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary perspective views of an exercise machine 100 designed to facilitate pectoral fly exercises and hip abduction exercises. FIG. 3 shows an exemplary side view of the exercise machine 100. The exercise machine 100 is equipped with a sturdy base platform 102, designed to rest securely on any flat surface, ensuring stability during use. A seat 104 is mounted on the base platform 102 to provide the user with support while sitting in a seated posture. To enhance user comfort, the seat 104 may include a backrest 106, designed to support the user’s back. Both the seat 104 and backrest 106 may be cushioned for added comfort and can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically. This adjustability ensures that the machine 100 can accommodate users of various body sizes and heights, allowing for an optimized fit that enhances the effectiveness of the exercises.
[0040] The apparatus 100 includes a pair of handles 108 placed on either lateral side of the seat 104. These handles 108 are pivotally mounted to a vertical column on the base platform 102 and can move between a retracted position and an extended position along a pre-defined path. In the retracted position, the handles 108 are positioned at the lateral sides of the seat 104, making them easy for the user to grasp when seated. In the extended position, the handles 108 are positioned in front of the user’s chest or mid-chest area. The handles 108 are configured to move from the retracted position to the extended position when the user applies a pulling load, activating the upper body muscles, particularly those in the chest and shoulders, such as the rotator cuffs, deltoids, biceps, and triceps. This movement mimics the pectoral / chest fly exercise, where the user moves the handles 108 from the retracted position to the extended position by bringing their arms together in front of their chest while gripping the handles 108.
[0041] Each of the handles 108 may be adapted to rotate about a pivot axis, allowing them to move smoothly between the retracted and extended positions. The handles 108 may be adjustable in both horizontal and vertical directions, ensuring that users of different sizes and body types can easily customize the position of the handles 108 to perform the pectoral fly exercise efficiently and comfortably. Eachof the handles 108 may include a cushioned, anti-slip layer to improve grip security, making the exercise safer and more effective.
[0042] The exercise machine 100 may include a first weight stack 108-1, which is configured to adjust the resistance controlling the movement of the handles 108 from the retracted position to the extended position. This allows users to modify the intensity of the chest fly exercises according to their 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 handles 108 during the pectoral fly exercise.
[0043] In some embodiments, the first weight stack 108-1 may be connected to each of the handles 108 through a cable and pulley mechanism. The first weight stack 108-1 is configured to ensure that the handles 108 only move from the retracted position to the extended position when the user, present in the seated posture, applies a sufficient pulling load to the handles 108. When the pulling load is no longer applied, each of the handles 108 returns to the corresponding retracted position, providing a smooth and controlled exercise experience.
[0044] The exercise machine 100 may also include a first range controller 108-2, which governs the range of motion of each of the handles 108 along its predefined path. The first range controller 108-2 restricts the movement of the handles 108 between the retracted and extended positions, ensuring that the handles 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 handles 108 based on their preferences. The first range controller 108-2 is essential for preventing excessive movement of each handle 108, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the range of motion of the handles 108, the first range controller 108-2 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.
[0045] In some embodiments, the first range controller 108-2 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 thehandles 108 along their pre-defined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the handles 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 pectoral fly motion, the first range controller 108-2 prevents the corresponding handle 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
[0046] In addition to the handles 108, the exercise machine 100 includes a pair of abductor pads 110 located in front of the seat. The abductor pads 110 are adapted to support the user’s knees from the sides when they are seated on the seat 104. Each abductor pad 110 can move between two horizontal positions, closer to the user’s body (first position) and farther apart (second position), in response to the user’s leg movements. In the first position, the abductor pads 110 gently support the knees in a relaxed manner. In the second position, the abductor pads 110 move laterally along the lateral direction as the user applies a pushing load by engaging their hip and core muscles.
[0047] Each of the abductor pads 110 may be configured to move between the first and second positions about a vertical pivot axis, allowing them to shift along the lateral direction in response to movement of the user’s knees. The abductor pads 110 may be positioned at or slightly above the level of the seat 104 to provide optimal support to the knees of the user. When the user applies the pushing load to each of the abductor pads 110 by moving their knees outward to perform a hip abduction exercise, the abductor pads 110 move along a linear path.
[0048] Each of the abductor pads 110 may be adapted to engage the side of the user’s knee during the hip abduction exercise. To move the abductor pads 110 towards the second position, the user engages their core and hip muscles, such as the lateral deltoids, glutes, pectoral muscles, stabilizers, and hip abductors, which causes each of the abductor pads 110 to move from the first position to the second position. The user can repeat this motion to perform the hip abduction exercise, which results in efficient activation of the lower body and core muscles, promoting functional strength and stability.
[0049] The abductor pads 110 may be cushioned for added user comfort and to prevent injury during the exercise. Additionally, the abductor pads 110 may be adjustable both horizontally and vertically, accommodating users of various body sizes. This adjustability ensures that users can perform the hip abduction exercise with proper form and alignment, maximizing the benefits of the exercise while minimizing the risk of strain or injury.
[0050] The exercise machine 100 may include a second weight stack 110-1 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the movement of each of the abductor pads 110 from the first position to the second position. The second weight stack 110-1 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the movement of the abductor pads 110 to their individual fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The second weight stack 110-1 allows the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the abductor pads 110 during the hip abduction exercise.
[0051] In some embodiments, the second weight stack 110-1 may be connected to each of the abductor pads 110 through a cable and pulley mechanism. The second weight stack 110-1 is configured to ensure that the abductor pads 110 move towards the second position only when the user, present in the seated posture, applies a sufficient pushing load to the abductor pads 110. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the abductor pads 110 return to the first position.
[0052] The exercise machine 100 may be equipped with a second range controller configured to control the range of motion of the abductor pads 110. The second range controller restricts the movement of the abductor pads 110 between the first and second horizontal positions, ensuring that the abductor pads 110 do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. The second range controller helps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of motion of the abductor pads 110 based on their preferences. The second range controller is essential for preventing excessive movement of the abductor pads 110, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the range of motion of the abductor pads 110, the second range controller enhances safety, targets specificmuscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.
[0053] In some embodiments, the second range controller may have a similar configuration to the first range controller 108-2. For instance, the second range controller 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 each of the abductor pads 110 along their pre-defined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the abductor pads 110 between the first and second horizontal positions. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track of the blocking member, can be moved along it and securely fixed in place by engaging one of these slots. As the user completes the hip abduction movement, the second range controller prevents the abductor pads 110 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
[0054] To perform the integrated workout, the user may begin by adjusting the starting positions of the seat, the abductor pads 110, and the handles 108 based on their preferences. Subsequently, the user can select the desired weights from both the first and second weight stacks 108-1 and 110-1 to customize the resistance offered to the movement of the handles 108 and the abductor pads 110, respectively. The user can then perform the pectoral fly exercise by engaging their upper body muscles to pull the handles 108 from the retracted to the extended position. Once a full range of motion of the handles 108 is completed (i.e., when the handles 108 are in the extended position in front of the chest area), the user may transition to the hip abduction exercise by engaging their core and lower body muscles. This dualfunction setup engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously, including the biceps, triceps, rotator cuffs, deltoids, glutes, hip abductors, and stabilizers, promoting greater muscle coordination and overall strength. This integrated approach reduces strain on the shoulder joint, particularly the rotator cuffs, and provides a holistic workout that targets both the upper body and the core. Furthermore, by reducing the risk of hyperextension or excessive stress at extreme ranges of motion, the machine 100 enhances both safety and biomechanicalefficiency. Designed to align with natural human biomechanics, the exercise machine 100 facilitates multi-planar movements that simulate real-life functional motions, improving neuromuscular coordination, balance, and reducing the likelihood of injury.
[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the exercise machine 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.
[0056] Thus, the apparatus 100 offers significant advantages over conventional exercise equipment by combining the chest press / fly exercise with hip abduction movements, which promote a more natural and functional movement pattern. This integrated workout closely mimics how the chest muscles are engaged during real-life activities, making the exercises not only more intuitive but also more effective for functional strength development. By integrating the chest fly exercise with the abduction motion, the apparatus 100 allows for a smoother and more biomechanically efficient movement that better aligns with the natural path of the arms and shoulders. This combined movement helps distribute the load more evenly across the chest and shoulder muscles, reducing the strain typically placed on the shoulder joint, particularly the rotator cuffs. Unlike conventional pectoral fly machines, where the fixed motion of the arms can cause excessive stress on the shoulders, the apparatus 100 of the present invention engages the pectoral muscles in a way that also activates stabilizing muscles around the shoulder and torso. This activation of the stabilizers not only helps improve overall strength but also enhances balance and coordination, which are key components of functional fitness. Additionally, the apparatus 100 is configured to minimize the risk of hyperextension or excessive stress on the shoulder joints, particularly at extreme ranges of motion. By reducing the likelihood of overstretching or straining the muscles and joints, the apparatus 100 ensures a safer and more controlled workout, allowing users to perform exercises with confidence and less risk of injury. As a result, the apparatus 100 enables users to perform a combination of pectoral fly and hip abduction exercises, improving both safety and biomechanical efficiency,making it an optimal choice for users seeking to enhance functional strength while minimizing the risk of shoulder-related injuries.
[0057] 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 exercise machine (100) to facilitate pectoral fly exercises integrated with hip abduction exercises, the exercise machine (100) comprising:a. a base platform (102);b. a seat (104) for user support;c. a pair of handles (108) configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position;d. a first weight stack (108-1) for adjusting resistance for movement of the handles (108); ande. a pair of abductor pads (110) configured to move between a first position and a second position in response to the user’s leg movements in a lateral direction.
2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the base platform (102) is designed to rest securely on a ground surface.
3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is mounted on the base platform (102) to support the user in a seated position.
4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (108) are positioned at lateral sides of the seat (104).
5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein each handle (108) is pivotally movable.
6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the movement of each handle (108) is along a pre-defined path.
7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the abductor pads (110) are positioned in front of the seat (104) to support a user’s knees from sides thereof.
8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the movement of each abductor pad (110) is between a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position spaced apart from the first horizontal position.
9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a backrest (106) adapted to support the user’s back in the seated position, wherein each of the seat (104) and the backrest (106) is adapted to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically to accommodate users of various sizes.
10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (108) are configured to move from the retracted position to the extended position only when the user applies a pulling load to each of the handles (108).
11. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein in the extended position, the handle (108) is present in front of a chest area or a mid-chest area of the user occupying the seat (104).
12. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (108) are adapted to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically to allow users of varying sizes to perform the pectoral fly exercise efficiently.
13. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (108-2) incorporated to adjust or limit a range of pivot motion of the handles (108) between the retracted position and the extended position, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement of the handles (108) that could cause discomfort or injury.
14. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second weight stack (110-1) designed to adjust resistance for the movement of each of the abductor pads (110) between the first horizontal position and the second horizontal position.
15. The exercise machine (100) of claim 14, wherein the second weight stack (110-1) is coupled to each of the abductor pads (110) such that the abductor pads (110) move from the first horizontal position to the second horizontal position only when a sufficient pushing load is applied to the abductor pads (110) by the user.
16. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the abductor pads (110) are configured for users to rest the sides of their knees against them, and apply a pushing load by moving their knees away from their body to perform hip abduction exercises.
17. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second range controller adapted to adjust or limit the range of motion of the abductor pads (110) between the first and second horizontal positions, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement that could cause discomfort or injury.
18. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (108) and the abductor pads (110) are configured to promote greater muscular coordination by engaging both lower body and upper body muscles simultaneously.