Exercise machine to facilitate leg press and hip abduction exercises

Abstract

An exercise machine that integrates leg press and hip abduction exercises, enhancing overall biomechanics and functional movement by engaging multiple muscle groups and improving joint stability. The exercise machine comprises a base platform with a bench that supports the user in a side-reclining position, allowing the user to face a lateral direction during exercises. The user can perform dynamic exercises targeting the core and lower body muscles, including leg press and hip abduction exercises, by moving a footrest in both horizontal and vertical directions. The machine includes adjustable weight stacks for a personalized resistance-based workout. To enhance safety, the machine features range controllers that limit the footrest movement in both directions, ensuring controlled motion and minimizing the risk of injury. The machine is also configured to accommodate users of varying body sizes and fitness levels for effective workouts.

Description

EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE LEG PRESS AND HIP ABDUCTION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to exercise equipment, and more specifically to an exercise machine designed to facilitate the performance of exercises that combine leg press movements with hip abduction. The exercise machine aims to provide a versatile, effective workout for users, targeting multiple muscle groups in the lower body, core, and upper body of the users.BACKGROUND

[0002] Exercise machines designed for lower body training have long been a staple in fitness facilities, particularly for strengthening the legs, glutes, and hips. Traditional machines such as the leg press primarily target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles by providing resistance as the user pushes or presses against a weighted platform using their legs. While leg press machines are effective for strengthening the lower body, they generally focus on isolated movements and do not engage other muscle groups in the body. Another common exercise performed on fitness equipment is the hip abduction, which primarily targets the hip abductors, including the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae. The hip abduction is often performed using machines that isolate the hip muscles by requiring the user to spread their legs outward against resistance. While these machines are effective in targeting the hip abductors, they do not provide a comprehensive workout that engages the upper body or core, nor do they offer dynamic movements to improve rotational strength.

[0003] Conventional leg press machines are primarily designed to target the lower body, focusing on key muscle groups such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. In these machines, users typically sit with their back supported and place their feet on a footplate. They then push the footplate away from them, overcoming resistance created by a weight stack. While these machines are effective for isolating and strengthening lower body muscles, they come with certain limitations and potential drawbacks. One of the main drawbacks of traditional leg press machines is that they restrict the natural movement of the joints and muscles, which can lead to improper movement patterns and discomfort. The design of these machines often does not accommodate the full range of motion required for a more functional, dynamic workout. As a result, users may experience stress on critical joints such as the knees and hips. For example, improper foot placement or excessive depth in the range of motion can increase the shear forces on the knee joint, leading to discomfort or even injury. Similarly,when the range of motion is too deep or the body is positioned incorrectly, it can place excessive strain on the hip joints.

[0004] Another significant concern with conventional leg press machines is the potential for lower back strain. If the user’s posture is poor, such as slumping or arching the back during the exercise, the pressure on the lower back can increase, potentially leading to discomfort or even injury over time. Additionally, using excessive weight without proper form can exacerbate these issues, placing even more pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles. These factors combine to limit the effectiveness and safety of traditional leg press machines, highlighting the need for a more versatile and ergonomic exercise solution.

[0005] Despite the availability of specialized equipment for both leg press and hip abduction exercises, existing machines typically focus on isolated muscle groups and fail to combine multiple functional movements in a single apparatus. Leg press machines, while efficient at building leg strength, do not typically offer an opportunity to engage the hips in a way that targets the abductor muscles or encourages the full range of motion needed for improved flexibility and rotation.

[0006] Similarly, hip abduction machines are generally focused on the lower body and do not integrate upper body or core engagement in the exercise. Furthermore, the ability to simultaneously improve strength, flexibility, and rotational movement is an essential component of functional fitness, particularly for athletes and individuals engaging in full-body training. There is currently a gap in the market for an exercise machine that can facilitate the combination of both leg press and hip abduction motions in a manner that engages multiple muscle groups and supports dynamic movement patterns.SUMMARY

[0007] There is a need in the art for an exercise machine that allows users to perform exercises combining leg press motion with hip abduction. Such a machine would address the limitations of current equipment by offering an integrated workout that promotes functional strength, flexibility, and mobility. It would provide a way to engage the core and upper body while targeting key lower body muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, hip abductors, stabilizers, and others. The present invention addresses the deficiencies of conventional exercise equipment by offering a single apparatus capable of facilitating both leg press and hip abduction movements, providing versatility, safety, and a comprehensive workout. Additionally, by incorporating rotational movement, the exercise machine would help improve balance, coordination, and overall movement efficiency.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide an exercise equipment that enables users to simultaneously perform leg press and hip abduction exercises.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to offer resistance to leg press and hip abduction movements in a way that enhances strength, flexibility, and rotational movement across various muscle groups, including the upper body, core, and lower body.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that facilitates a holistic approach to fitness by targeting multiple muscle groups in a single apparatus, ensuring that users can achieve a balanced and effective workout.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine 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.

[0012] Another obj ect of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that allows users to perform a leg press exercise combined with a hip abduction motion, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This combination targets not only the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes but also the core, abductors, and other stabilizing muscles.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that promotes independent adjustments of both the leg press exercise and the hip abduction exercise, enabling users to modify the intensity of each exercise based on their fitness level and training goals.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by combining a leg press 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 rotation, such as in sports like tennis, basketball, and swimming.

[0015] 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 twisting or pulling exercises.

[0016] 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 providing an apparatus that integrates the legpress 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.

[0017] 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 the users.

[0018] Another object 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.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that improves both the effectiveness and applicability of leg press and hip abduction exercises, offering a more holistic and functional approach to strength training.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The present invention pertains to an exercise machine designed to enhance the effectiveness of leg press exercises by incorporating dynamic movement and coordination between the upper body, the core and the lower body. The exercise machine enables users to perform horizontal leg press exercises integrated with hip abduction exercises, providing an innovative solution for comprehensive lower body strength training. The exercise machine offers superior performance by integrating leg press exercises with hip abduction movements. This combination enhances biomechanics and functional movement by engaging more muscle groups and improving joint stability. The leg press exercise effectively targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, while the hip abduction exercise activates the lateral deltoids, abductors, stabilizers, and the core.

[0023] The exercise machine includes abase platform designed to rest securely on a ground surface, with a bench mounted on the base platform to support the user in a side-reclining position such that the user faces a lateral direction of the exercise machine.

[0024] In some embodiments, the bench may be equipped with a headrest configured to allow the user to rest their head on it, enhancing comfort during the exercise. Additionally, the exercise machine may include an auxiliary bench designed to support one side of the user’sknee in the side-reclining position. The bench, headrest, and auxiliary bench may all be cushioned for comfort and designed to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically, accommodating users of varying body sizes. This adjustability ensures that users can maintain optimal posture and comfort, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the workout.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the user is positioned in the side-reclining posture, the user faces laterally to the exercise machine such that one arm and a side portion of the user’s torso contact the bench, while the other arm and the opposite side of the torso remain free to move. The user may rest over the bench in either a left-side or right-side lateral direction. If the user faces the left-side direction, the left arm and left side of the torso make contact with the bench, leaving the right arm and side free to move. Similarly, if the user faces the rightside direction, the right arm and right side of the torso contact the bench, while the left arm and side are free for movement. This lateral positioning allows for a more dynamic range of motion, supporting exercises that engage the core and lower body muscles effectively.

[0026] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a footrest that allows the user to rest one foot on it. The footrest can be moved in both the longitudinal (horizontal) and vertical directions, enabling the performance of both leg press and hip abduction exercises. When moving in the longitudinal direction, the footrest allows the user to perform leg press exercises by applying pushing force using their lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Conversely, when moved in the vertical direction, the footrest facilitates hip abduction exercises by engaging the core muscles, particularly the hip abductors (gluteus medius and minimus), stabilizers, and obliques.

[0027] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a lever pad coupled to the footrest. The lever pad provides additional support for the user’s foot, particularly when the user pushes the footrest in the upward (vertical) direction. This feature aids in controlling the movement of the footrest during hip abduction exercises.

[0028] In some embodiments, the footrest may be adjustable both horizontally and vertically relative to the bench. This adjustability accommodates users of different sizes and ensures that they can perform both the leg press and hip abduction exercises efficiently, while optimizing comfort and the effectiveness of their workout.

[0029] In some embodiments, the footrest and lever pad may be positioned at the same level as, or slightly above, the bench. This positioning provides a comfortable and ergonomic posture for the user during the exercise, minimizing strain. The footrest and lever pad may also be cushioned to improve comfort and prevent injury. The lever pad is specifically designed toengage the user’s foot during hip abduction exercises, helping to stabilize the lower body and prevent any unwanted movement.

[0030] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack that adjusts the resistance for the movement of the footrest in the longitudinal direction. This allows users to customize the intensity of their leg press exercises based on their fitness level. To ensure safety and control, a first range controller may be included, allowing users to adjust or limit the range of motion of the footrest along the longitudinal direction. This feature prevents excessive movement that could cause discomfort or potential injury, allowing users to finetune the range of the footrest to suit their needs.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first weight stack may be connected to the footrest through a cable and pulley mechanism. This setup ensures that the footrest moves in the longitudinal direction only when a sufficient pushing force is applied by the user. When the user stops applying force, the footrest returns to its original position, offering a controlled and smooth motion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may also include a second weight stack designed to adjust the resistance for the vertical (upward) movement of the footrest. This feature allows users to customize the intensity of their hip abduction exercises. Additionally, the exercise machine may be equipped with a second range controller that adjusts or limits the vertical range of motion of the footrest, ensuring safety and preventing excessive movement. The second range controller allows users to fine-tune the footrest's vertical movement to meet their specific needs.

[0033] In some embodiments, the second weight stack may be connected to the footrest via a cable and pulley mechanism. This setup ensures that the footrest moves vertically upwards only when the user applies a sufficient load to the footrest. Once the user stops applying force, the footrest reverts to its original position. This mechanism helps to maintain a controlled movement during hip abduction exercises, further enhancing the safety and functionality of the machine.

[0034] 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

[0035] 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. Thedrawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary side view of an exercise machine for facilitating leg press exercises integrated with hip abduction exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary plan view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] 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.

[0039] Conventional leg press machines are designed to target the lower body, primarily focusing on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. However, these machines have limitations, such as restricting the natural movement of joints and muscles, which can lead to improper movement patterns and discomfort, particularly in the knees and hips. Improper foot placement or excessive range of motion can stress critical joints, while poor posture may result in lower back strain. Additionally, traditional leg press machines often fail to combine functional movements or engage other muscle groups, such as the abductor muscles in the hips or the core, which are essential for full-body fitness. Despite the availability of machines for leg presses and hip abductions, there is a gap for an apparatus that combines both movements in a way that promotes strength, flexibility, rotation, and dynamic body engagement.

[0040] Embodiments described herein relate to an exercise machine 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 hip abduction exercises, offering a novel approach to comprehensive upper body strength training. The integration of chest press and hip abduction exercises enhances neuromuscular control and coordination between the upper body and hip movements.

[0041] The exercise machine of the present invention offers significant advantages over conventional equipment by combining horizontal leg press with hip abduction movements, providing a comprehensive lower body workout that enhances strength, stability, and overall functional movement patterns. The horizontal leg press movement primarily targets key lowerbody muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, while the hip abduction motion focuses on the hip abductors, specifically the gluteus medius and minimus. By integrating these two movements into a single apparatus, users can engage a broader range of muscle groups, ensuring a better-rounded and balanced workout. This dual-action approach not only promotes muscle strength but also supports improved muscle coordination and stability. Moreover, the combination of horizontal leg press and hip abduction movements mirrors real-life activities, such as rising from a seated position or performing lateral movements in sports. These functional movement patterns are directly transferable to daily activities and athletic performance. By targeting muscles involved in such everyday motions, the exercise machine enhances functional strength, improving mobility and reducing the risk of injury during common activities like walking, running, and bending. This makes the exercise machine an excellent choice for both general fitness and sport-specific training, as it helps users build strength that translates seamlessly into real-world applications.

[0042] FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary representations of an exercise machine 100 for facilitating leg press exercises and hip abduction exercises. The exercise machine (also referred to as “machine” herein) 100 is equipped with a sturdy base platform 102 that rests securely on a flat surface, providing a stable foundation for the exercise machine 100. The machine 100 includes a bench 104 mounted on the base platform 102 to support a user in a side-reclining posture, ensuring ease of use during exercises. In this side-reclining position, the user faces laterally (i.e., to the side) of the exercise machine 100. This side-reclining position offers ergonomic support while also enabling the user to perform dynamic exercises that engage various muscle groups.

[0043] To further enhance user comfort during the workout, the bench 104 may be provided with a cushioned headrest 104-1, which offers a designated area for the user to rest their head. The headrest 104-1 is particularly beneficial during exercises that involve extended periods of lying down or maintaining the side-reclining posture, as it helps prevent neck strain and promotes a more relaxed and comfortable experience. Additionally, the exercise machine 100 may be equipped with an auxiliary bench 106 positioned beside the main bench 104. This auxiliary bench 106 is designed to support the user’s knee or the side portion of one knee during exercises. The auxiliary bench 106 provides additional stability, especially when the user is in the side-reclining position, by allowing them to rest part of their lower body for more controlled movement. Each of the bench 104, headrest 104-1, and auxiliary bench 106 may be cushioned to enhance comfort during use. Furthermore, these components may be designed to be fully adjustable, both horizontally and vertically, to accommodate users of different body sizes andensure optimal alignment during exercises. This adjustability makes the machine 100 versatile, ensuring that users can perform exercises with proper posture and alignment, which is crucial for both comfort and safety.

[0044] In the side-reclining position, the user faces one of two possible lateral directions: either to the left or the right, depending on their preference or the type of exercise being performed. In this position, the user’s body is arranged so that one arm and a side portion of the torso rest against the bench 104 for support, while the opposite arm and the other side of the torso remain free to move. This configuration allows the user to engage their core and lower body muscles dynamically while maintaining stability in the upper body. When the user faces the left-side lateral direction, the left arm and left portion of the torso contact the bench 104, while the right arm and right side of the torso are free for movement, to perform the exercises. Conversely, when the user faces the right-side lateral direction, the right arm and torso contact the bench 104, while the left side is free to move to perform the integrated workout. This flexibility in positioning helps target different muscle groups during exercise and allows for a more varied workout.

[0045] The machine 100 also includes a footrest 108 configured to be movable in both a longitudinal (horizontal) direction and a vertical direction relative to the bench 104. The footrest 108 is designed to allow the user to rest one foot on it during the exercises, while also being adjustable to move in both the longitudinal and vertical directions. When moved in the longitudinal direction, the footrest 108 allows the user to perform the leg press exercise, which primarily targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. During this exercise, the user applies a pushing load / force using their lower body muscles to push the footrest 108 away from their body in the horizontal direction. This motion replicates the traditional horizontal leg press movement, which is effective for building lower body strength. The footrest 108 may be configured to slide along a path guided by a set of rails 112 to move in the longitudinal direction.

[0046] In addition to the horizontal leg press motion, the footrest 108 can also be moved in the vertical direction, facilitating the hip abduction exercise. By applying a pushing force through the core muscles, including the hip abductors (gluteus medius and minimus), stabilizers, and obliques, the user can push the footrest 108 upward in the vertical direction. This engages the muscles responsible for lateral movement and helps strengthen the hip area, which is crucial for stability and mobility. The footrest 108 is adjustable in both the horizontal and vertical directions, offering users of different body sizes the ability to target their lower body, hips, and core. This multi-functional setup makes the machine 100 incredibly versatile,allowing users to incorporate various exercise routines without needing multiple pieces of equipment.

[0047] To improve support during the vertical movement of the footrest 108, the machine 100 may include a lever pad 110 that is attached to the footrest 108. This lever pad 110 offers the user additional foot support when pushing the footrest 108 in the vertical (upward) direction, especially during the hip abduction movement. The lever pad 110 helps prevent slipping and ensures that the user’s foot remains in the correct position, offering better control and stability throughout the exercise.

[0048] The footrest 108 may be adapted to be adjustable both horizontally and vertically in relation to the bench 104. This means users of varying sizes can position the footrest 108 to match their individual body types, ensuring they can perform exercises with proper alignment. The adjustability not only enhances comfort but also improves the effectiveness of the exercises, as the user can optimize their range of motion based on their body proportions. The footrest 108 and lever pad 110 may be positioned slightly above or at the same level as the bench 104 to ensure that the user maintains a comfortable posture during the workout. This arrangement helps to alleviate any strain on the knees, hips, or lower back while ensuring that the user can execute both the leg press and hip abduction exercises with proper form. Furthermore, each of the footrest 108 and the lever pad 110 may be provided with a cushioning layer to enhance user comfort and minimize the risk of injury, particularly during longer workout sessions.

[0049] The exercise machine 100 may include a first weight stack 114 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the forward movement of the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction. The first weight stack 114 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the movement of the footrest 108 to their individual fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The first weight stack 114 allows the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the footrest 108 during the leg press exercise.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first weight stack 114 is connected to the footrest 108 through a cable and pulley mechanism. The first weight stack 114 is configured to ensure that the footrest 108 only moves forward in the longitudinal direction when the user, present in the side-reclining posture, applies a sufficient pushing load to the footrest 108. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the footrest 108 returns to its original horizontal position, providing a smooth and controlled exercise experience.

[0051] The exercise machine 100 may also include a first range controller, which governs the range of motion of the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction. The first range controllerrestricts the movement of the footrest 108, ensuring that the footrest 108 does 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 footrest 108 based on their preferences. The first range controller is essential for preventing excessive movement of the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the range of motion of the footrest 108, the first range controller enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first 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 the footrest 108 along its predefined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction. 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 prevents the footrest 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.

[0053] The exercise machine 100 may include a second weight stack 116 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the upward vertical movement of the footrest 108. The second weight stack 116 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the movement of the footrest 108 to their individual fitness level, providing a personalized workout experience. The second weight stack 116 allows the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the footrest 108 during the hip abduction exercise.

[0054] In some embodiments, the second weight stack 116 may be connected to the footrest 108 through a cable and pulley mechanism. The second weight stack 116 is configured to ensure that the footrest 108 moves in the vertically upward direction only when the user, present in the side-reclining posture, applies a sufficient pushing load to the footrest 108. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the footrest 108 returns to its original vertical position, creating a controlled, fluid motion that enhances the effectiveness of the hip abduction exercise. This setup also contributes to the machine’s versatility by allowing users to perform a variety of lower body exercises with precise resistance adjustments.

[0055] The exercise machine 100 may include a second range controller configured to control the range of motion of the footrest 108 in the vertical direction. The second range controller restricts the movement of the footrest 108 in the vertical direction, ensuring that the footrest 108 does not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. The second range controllerhelps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of motion of the footrest 108 based on their preferences. The second range controller is essential for preventing excessive movement of the footrest 108 in the vertical direction, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the pivot motion of the footrest 108, the second range controller enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.

[0056] In some embodiments, 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 pivot movement of the footrest 108 along its predefined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the footrest 108 in the vertical direction. 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 footrest 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.

[0057] To perform the integrated workout, the user can first adjust the bench 104, the auxiliary bench 106, and the footrest 108 to their desired positions. After selecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks 114 and 116, the user can engage in the horizontal leg press exercise by activating their lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and others, to push the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction. Once a full range of motion is completed (i.e., when the footrest 108 is moved forward along the longitudinal direction), the user can transition into the hip abduction exercise. By engaging their core muscles, including the hip abductors (gluteus medius and minimus), stabilizers, obliques, and others, the user can move the footrest 108 in the vertically upward direction to rotate their legs sideward relative to their torso.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the hip abduction exercise and transition to the horizontal leg press exercise after completing one full range of motion of the hip abduction exercise. To perform this integrated workout, the user can push the footrest 108 in the vertically upward direction by engaging their core and lower body muscles. Once a full range of motion of the hip abduction exercise is completed (i.e., when the footrest 108 is moved upward in the vertical direction), the user can transition into the horizontal leg press exercise by engaging their lower body muscles to push the footrest 108 in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] Thus, the exercise machine 100 enables users to perform leg press exercises either individually or in combination with hip abduction exercises, or vice versa. Subsequently, the user can repeat the leg press and hip abduction exercises to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups in the lower body, core, and upper body, with improved effectiveness. This integrated exercise promotes muscular coordination by engaging both the upper body and core simultaneously. The exercise machine 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.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the exercise machine 100 may include a lap band or belt attached to the bench 104 to secure the user’s torso during exercise, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring safety.

[0061] 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 leg press and hip abduction exercises, comprising:a. a base platform (102) designed to rest on a ground surface;b. a bench (104) mounted on the base platform (102) to support a user in a side-reclining position such that the user faces a lateral direction of the exercise machine (100);c. a footrest (108) configured to allow the user to rest one foot on it, wherein the footrest (108) is movable in both a longitudinal direction and a vertical direction relative to the bench (104);d. a first weight stack (114) connected to the footrest (108) to adjust resistance for the movement of the footrest (108) in the longitudinal direction; ande. a second weight stack (116) connected to the footrest (108) to adjust resistance for the vertical movement of the footrest (108).

2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller configured to limit the range of motion of the footrest (108) along the longitudinal direction and a second range controller configured to limit the range of motion of the footrest (108) in the vertical direction.

3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 2, wherein each range controller includes a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member placed over them, the blocking member featuring a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the footrest (108).

4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 3, wherein a locking bar is slidably attached to a track of the blocking member and is configured to be securely fixed in place by engaging one of the slots.

5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (114) and the second weight stack (116) allow the user to adjust the resistance separately for each movement.

6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a lever pad (110) coupled to the footrest (108) to provide support for the user’s foot when pushing the footrest (108) in the vertical direction.

7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the bench (104) includes a variable adjustment mechanism to accommodate users of various sizes and heights.

8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising an auxiliary bench (106) positioned beside the bench (104) to support one side of the user’s knee in the side-reclining position.

9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the footrest (108) is configured to slide along a set of rails (112) to move in the longitudinal direction.

10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a lap band or belt attached to the bench (104) to secure the user’s torso during exercise.

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