Exercise machine facilitating arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FUNCTIONAL PATTERNS LLC
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-06
Smart Images
Figure US2026013502_06082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Docket No.: FPAT 111EXERCISE MACHINE FACILITATING ARM PULL-DOWN AND SPINE FLEXION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of exercise equipment. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an exercise machine facilitating arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises simultaneously to enhance the activation of the latissimus dorsi (lats), abdominals, and spinal stabilizers simultaneously.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] The features and advantages of certain embodiments will be more readily appreciated when considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures. The figures are not to be construed as limiting any of the embodiments.
[0003] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine configured to facilitate arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises according to certain embodiments.
[0004] FIG. 2 is a front view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.BACKGROUND
[0005] Lat pull-down machines are commonly used for upper body strength training, particularly for targeting the latissimus dorsi muscles. These machines generally involve a seated position with a user pulling a bar down toward their chest, while the thighs are secured by roller pads for stability. The resistance is adjustable via a weight stack and a magnetic selector pin, allowing users to customize the difficulty of the exercise. Many of these machines also offer users the option of selecting between wide and narrow grips to vary the intensity and movement of the exercise.
[0006] However, a significant limitation of most existing lat pull-dow n machines is their reliance on a linear motion, which can limit the activation of core and secondary muscles. The movement pattern enforced by traditional machines often does not match the natural arc of the shoulder joints during pulling. This rigid, fixed-path motion can result in underutilization of the core muscles, including the abdominals and spinal stabilizers, which are vital for overall functional strength and stability. As a result, users cannot experience the full benefits of engaging their entire upper body and core during the exercise.
[0007] Additionally, the absence of spine flexion in most lat pull-down machines results in an incomplete activation of the spinal flexors and abdominal muscles, which playDocket No.: FPAT 111an essential role in improving functional movement and postural stability. Existing machines fail to simulate the dynamic, real-life motions that require the integration of both upper body strength and core stabilization.
[0008] Thus, there is a pressing need for an exercise machine that addresses the limitations of traditional and existing lat pull-down machines.
[0009] It has been discovered that an exercise machine overcomes the aforesaid shortcomings and deficiencies associated with traditional and existing exercise machines by incorporating spine flexion to simultaneously engage multiple muscle groups. The exercise machine is specifically designed to facilitate arm pull-down combined with spine flexion exercises, thereby providing a comprehensive workout solution that targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously.SUMMARY
[0010] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide an exercise machine designed to facilitate both arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises, integrating the benefits of these exercises.
[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to enable users to perform a combination of arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises, which allow s the users to efficiently activate core muscles and improve posture control and spinal ability.
[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an exercise machine configured to engage the lats, abdominals, and spinal stabilizers simultaneously.
[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an exercise machine designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of different heights, body types, and fitness levels.
[0014] The present disclosure relates to an exercise machine designed to enable a user to integrate arm pull-dowTi exercises and spine flexion exercises. The exercise machine is particularly suitable for users seeking to improve both upper body strength and core stability in a single, dynamic movement. The exercise machine includes a support frame having a pair of inclined legs to support the support frame on a ground. A bench is attached to an extended horizontal portion of the support frame. The bench is configured to allow a user to sit thereon while performing exercises. Two or more backrests (collectively referred as “backrest’' hereinafter) can be configured over the support frame to support the back of the user while sitting. Two or more backrest can include a first backrest, and a second backrest of contoured shape to support the spine of the user. The backrest can be installed on the supportDocket No.: FPAT 111frame such that it is inclined relative to a horizontal axis. This arrangement ensures that when the user rests their back against the backrest, the user’s back is supported. The angle of inclination of the backrest can be adjustable. Additionally, the backrest is easily adjustable both horizontally and vertically, allowing users of varying sizes to customize its position for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
[0015] According to the present disclosure, the exercise machine can include a pair of roller pads configured below the bench. The roller pads can be configured to stabilize the lower body of the user during spine flexion exercise, preventing it from rising or shifting during the spine flexion movement.
[0016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise machine can include a set of handle bars (collectively referred as “handle bars” hereinafter) configured to facilitate the user to perform the arm pull-down exercise. The handle bars can be pivotally connected to ends of a connecting bar. The connecting bar is coupled to one end of the support frame with a pivotal axis parallel to the ground and perpendicular to a frontal plane.
[0017] The exercise machine includes a plurality of weight stacks (collectively referred as “weight stacks” hereinafter) configured to customize the level of resistance for arm ull-down and spine flexion separately. The weight stacks can include a first weight stack operably coupled to the handle bars to create resistance against the arm pull-down movements. Further, the weight stacks can include a second weight stack operably coupled to the backrest to create resistance against the spine flexion movements.
[0018] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise machine can include a first range controller configured to allow the user to adjust the range of motion of the handles while performing arm pull-down exercises.
[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise machine can include a second range controller designed to adjust or restrict angular motion of the backrest.
[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise machine can include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the arm pull-down exercise. The apparatus can further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the spine flexion exercise.
[0021] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferredDocket No.: FPAT 111embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the various embodiments. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
[0023] Existing lat pull-down machines exhibit a significant limitation in that they impose a constrained, linear motion, which fails to accommodate the natural biomechanical arc of the shoulder joints during the pulling action. This deficiency in movement design leads to suboptimal activation of core and stabilizer muscles, thereby restricting the functional engagement of multiple muscle groups. Consequently, such machines cannot effectively replicate real-life movement patterns, resulting in diminished core stability, incomplete muscle activation, and reduced overall efficacy in strengthening and conditioning exercises.
[0024] Embodiments described here pertain to an exercise machine that integrates arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises to effectively engage both the upper body and core. Further, the exercise machine allows users to perform an arm pull-down targeting the latissimus dorsi, shoulders, and upper back, while simultaneously performing the spine flexion movement that engages the abdominals and lower back. With two independent weight stacks for each movement, the users can adjust the resistance for both exercises, tailoring the workout to their needs.
[0025] Figs. 1 and 2 illustrate an exercise machine 100 configured to facilitate arm pull-down and spine flexion exercises. The exercise machine 100 includes a support frame 102 having a pair of inclined legs 104 (collectively referred as “inclined legs” or “legs” hereinafter) to support the support frame 102 on a ground. The inclined legs 104 can prevent movement of the support frame 102 during use. A first end of the inclined legs 104 can meet at a common junction, that can be for example a hinged connection. A second end of the inclined legs 104 are configured to be placed on the ground. An attachment segment can extend from the second end of the inclined legs 104 to a weight stack frame and be adjustably secured to the weight stack frame. The distance between the second end of the inclined legs 104 can be adjustable to allow a user to customize the width and positioning of the secondDocket No.: FPAT 111end of the legs 104 based on their body size and comfort. This feature ensures that users of varying heights and body types can maintain proper alignment and stability during exercises, such as spine flexion and arm pull-down.
[0026] A bench 106 is attached to an extended horizontal portion of the support frame 102. The bench 106 is configured to allow the user to sit thereon while performing exercises. Two or more backrests, such as 108-1, 108-2 (collectively referred as ‘‘backrest 108” hereinafter) can be configured over the support frame 102 to support the back or spine of the user w ile sitting. The first backrest 108-1 can have a substantially flat frontal plane to support a user’s upper back and spine during use. The second backrest 108-2 can have a contoured shape that supports the middle and / or low er spine of the user during use. The backrest 108 can be installed on the support frame 102 such that it is inclined relative to a horizontal axis or horizontal plane of the ground. This arrangement ensures that when the user rests their back against the backrest 108 the user’s back and spine are supported. The angle of inclination of the backrest 108 can be adjustable. During use, the backrest 108 can incline towards and away from the bench 106. for example via a hinged connection, thereby increasing the incline of the backrest and then return to the original inclination. The backrest 108 can also slide up and down on the frame. This difference in inclination allow s a user to perform the spinal flexion exercises. Additionally, the backrest 108 is easily adjustable both horizontally and vertically in relation to the bench 106, allowing users of varying sizes to customize its position for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
[0027] The bench 106 of the exercise machine 100 can include a height adjustment mechanism (not shown) configured to allow7the user to select a comfortable and optimal position for performing exercises based on the length of their low er legs. This feature ensures that users can tailor the height of the bench 106 to their body size, improving both alignment and ergonomics during spine flexion and arm pull-down exercises. By adjusting the height, the users can maintain proper posture, reduce the risk of strain, and ensure that they are performing movements with the correct range of motion. This customization allow s the exercise machine 100 to accommodate users of different heights and preferences, thereby- enhancing comfort and effectiveness during workouts.
[0028] According to any of the embodiments, the exercise machine 100 can include a pair of roller pads 112 (collectively referred as “roller pads 112” hereinafter) configured to stabilize the lower body of the user during spine flexion exercise. The roller pads 112 can be located at the second end of one of the inclined legs 104 and configured such that a user’s feet can be placed behind the roller pads 112 when seated, whereby a back sideDocket No.: FPAT 111of the roller pads 112 rests in front of the user’s ankles or shins. According to any of the embodiments, the roller pads 112 are fixed to the inclined leg 104 such that the roller pads 112 do not move during use. The roller pads 112 can prevent the lower body of the user from rising or shifting during the spine flexion movement.
[0029] According to any of the embodiments, the roller pads 112 are made from materials including, but not limited to. memory foam, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, polyurethane foam, latex foam, gel-infused foam, and the like. In this manner, the user’s ankles or shins are cushioned during use. The roller pads 112 can be made of memory foam that molds to the user’s feet, ankles, or shin shape. The shape of the roller pads 112 can be rounded or of a cylindrical shape. A back side of the roller pads 112 can be padded and designed with a contoured shape to better fit the user's lower legs or ankles, providing added comfort and reducing pressure points. This ensures that the lower body of the user is held securely without causing discomfort, especially during extended workouts.
[0030] According to any of the embodiments, the exercise machine 100 includes a set of handle bars 110 (collectively referred as "handle bars 110” hereinafter) configured to facilitate the user to perform the arm pull-down exercise. The exercise machine 100 can also include a connecting bar 118 that has a longitudinal axis that is parallel to a plane of the ground. The connecting bar 118 can be coupled to one end of the support frame 102. The handle bars 110 are pivotally connected adjacent to each end of the connecting bar 118. Thus, during use. the handle bars 110 can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the connecting bar 118 and pivot in relation to a plane of the ground and perpendicular to a frontal plane of the backrest 108.
[0031] The exercise machine 100 can include a plurality of weight stacks configured to customize the level of resistance for arm pull-down and spine flexion separately. The weight stacks 114, 116 can include a first weight stack 114 operably coupled to the handle bars 110 to create resistance against the arm pull-down movements, and a second weight stack 116 operably coupled to the backrest 108 to create resistance against the spine flexion movements. The weight of the resistance during use is adjustable by selecting a desired w eight on the weight stacks.
[0032] The handle bars 110 can be operatively coupled to the first weight stack 114 to allow?the user to adjust the resistance for movement of the handle bars 110 tow ards their chest, as they perform the arm pull-down exercise. The first weight stack 114 enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the pivotal resistance offered against the angular movement of the handle bars 110 between a first angular positionDocket No.: FPAT 111and a second angular position along a pivotal axis. The handle bars 110 can be operatively connected to the first weight stack 114 through a cable and pulley mechanism for example, allowing the handle bars 110 to remain at the first angular position on the connecting bar 118, and move towards the second angular position only when a pulling load generated by the user during the arm pull-down exercise is greater than the resistance offered by the pre-selected w eight of the first weight stack 114.
[0033] The first and second weight stacks 114, 116 can be made from durable materials such as steel or heavy-duty plastic, without limitations. Steel offers strength and stability, while plastic or composite materials can provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant option. In some embodiment, each of the first and second weight stacks 114, 116 can include a plurality of w eight plates, and a guide rod to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates without tilting or wobbling. The weight plates can be stacked vertically and can have a central hole that slides onto the guiding rod. This allows the weight plates to move up and down as the resistance is adjusted. The guide rod can be a cylindrical shaft that can run parallel to the weight stack and allow the weight plates to slide up and down smoothly. The guide rod can be made from metal and can be designed to be durable and resistant to bending or warping. In some embodiments, the weight stack can include channels or guides to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates.
[0034] The exercise machine 100 can include a first range controller 122 that can be configured to allow the user to adjust the range of angular motion of the handle bars 110 during the arm pull-down exercise. The first range controller 122 can be configured over the handle bars 110. The first range controller 122 can include a retractable pin provided on a blocking member. The retracted pin, when released, can engage with a selected hole among a plurality of holes provided on a frame connected with the handle bars 110 to fix the blocking member. In particular, after pulling the pin outw ards, the blocking member can be slid along a blocking member track to different positions and locked in a desired position by releasing the pin for locking with a corresponding hole on the frame, for achieving a desired range of angular motion.
[0035] According to any of the embodiments, the backrest 108 can be operatively coupled to the second weight stack 116, thereby allowing a user to adjust the resistance for moving the back rest 108, as they perform the spine flexion exercise. The second weight stack 116 enables the user to select a desired weight among multiple weights to adjust the resistance offered to the backrest 108 for performing the spine flexion exercise. The backrest 108 can be operatively connected to the second weight stack 116 through a cable and pulleyDocket No.: FPAT 111mechanism, allowing the backrest 108 to remain in a first inclined or height position, and rotationally or slidably move towards a second inclined or height position only when the user exerts a force on the backrest 108 that is greater than the resistance offered by the preselected weight of the second weight stack 116.
[0036] The exercise machine 100 can include the second range controller 123 that can be configured to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the backrest 108. The second range controller 123 is designed to prevent excessive movement of the backrest 108 between the first inclined or height position and the second inclined or height position, which could cause discomfort or injury to the user. By adjusting the angle of the backrest 108, the second range controller can change the inclination of the backrest 108 to control how far the user’s spine can flex. This ensures that the user's spine is in a safe and comfortable position during the exercise while providing the appropriate resistance for the movement.
[0037] According to any of the embodiments, the exercise machine 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) in addition to or instead of the first range controller 122 configured with the first weight stack 114 to adjust resistance while performing the arm pull-down exercise. The third range controller can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the first weight stack 114 for sliding movement in a blocking member track. The blocking member track can be located parallel to a weight stack track. The blocking member can include a lock to lock the blocking member in a selected position above the weights such that when the weights are lifted up during the lat pull downs, an amount of the upward movement of the weights is restricted by the blocking member. The lock for the third range controller for the first weight stack 114 can include a retractable pin provided on the blocking member. The retracted pin, when released, can engage with a selected hole among a plurality of holes provided on a frame of the first weight stack 114 to fix the blocking member, such as a selected height from the weight selector of the weights. In particular, after pulling the pin outwards, the blocking member can be slid along the blocking member track to different positions, such as at the desired distance from the weight selector of the weights, and locked in the position by releasing the pin for locking with a corresponding hole on the frame, for achieving a desired range of motion.
[0038] The exercise machine 100 can further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack 116 to adjust resistance while performing the spine flexion exercise. The configuration of the fourth range controller is similar to that of the third range controller, providing the user with the ability to selectively adjust the resistance applied during the spine flexion exercise.Docket No.: FPAT 111
[0039] According to any of the embodiments and in use, to perform the exercises, the user first sits on the bench 106 with his feet secured behind and under the roller pads 112.The lower body of the user is stabilized by the roller pads 112, preventing the lower body from shifting or rising during the exercise. The user then leans back comfortably against the adjustable backrest 108, ensuring the spine is supported. The backrest 108 can facilitate the user to engage the core and back effectively during both movements. The user begins the arm pull-down by gripping the handle bars 110 and pulling them downward, keeping the elbows bent and drawing the bars toward the chest. The focus is on activating the latissimus dorsi (lats) and upper back muscles. While performing the arm pull-down, the user also engages their core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, and lower back. As the user pulls the handle bars 110 downward, the user simultaneously begins the spine flexion movement by slowly curling the upper body forward and bringing the chest toward the thighs. The weight resistance of the backrest 108 in inclination to the forward bend provides the user with the ability7to engage the core muscles more than if the backrest w as not operatively coupled to the second weight stack 116. This motion causes the core muscles to further engage, with the abdominals and obliques helping to facilitate the flexion, while the lower back muscles stabilize the movement. This integrated approach ensures an effective workout for both the upper body and core simultaneously.
[0040] As can be appreciated, the exercise machine 100 can facilitate performing arm pull-down simultaneously with spine flexion to effectively engage the upper body and core muscles in a single, integrated movement. The arm pull-down targets the latissimus dorsi, shoulders, and upper back, while the spine flexion movement engages the abdominals, lower back, and hip flexors. By combining these two exercises, the exercise machine 100 provides a comprehensive workout that strengthens both the upper body and core simultaneously. The ability to perform these movements together enhances efficiency, allowing users to maximize their workout in a shorter amount of time, while improving posture, core stability7, and muscular endurance. The design of the exercise machine 100 ensures proper alignment and control throughout both exercises, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall workout effectiveness.
[0041] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the disclosure are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability.Docket No.: FPAT 111
[0042] Therefore, the various embodiments are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the various embodiments can be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is. therefore, evident that the particular illustrative embodiments disclosed above can be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the present invention.
[0043] As used herein, the words "comprise," "have," "include," and all grammatical variations thereof are each intended to have an open, non-limiting meaning that does not exclude additional elements or steps. While compositions, systems, and methods are described in terms of "comprising," "containing," or "including" various components or steps, the compositions, systems, and methods also can "consist essentially of' or "consist of the various components and steps. It should also be understood that, as used herein, "first." "second," and "third," are assigned arbitranly and are merely intended to differentiate between two or more ends, legs, etc., as the case can be, and do not indicate any sequence. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the mere use of the w ord "first" does not require that there be any "second," and the mere use of the w ord "second" does not require that there be any "third," etc.
[0044] Whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, "from about a to about b," or, equivalently, "from approximately a to b," or, equivalently, "from approximately a - b") disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherw ise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. Moreover, the indefinite articles "a" or "an," as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the elements that it introduces. If there is any conflict in the usages of a word or term in this specification and one or more patent(s) or other documents that can be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions that are consistent with this specification should be adopted.
Claims
Docket No.: FPAT 111What is claimed is:
1. An exercise machine comprising:a support frame;a pair of inclined legs connected to the support frame;a bench connected to an extended horizontal portion of the support frame;a backrest connected to the support frame, wherein the backrest is configured to facilitate a user to perform spine flexion exercises; anda set of handle bars pivotally and indirectly connected to the support frame, wherein the set of handle bars are configured to facilitate a user to simultaneously perform arm pull-down exercises with the spine flexion exercises.
2. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the pair of inclined legs comprise a first end and a second end.
3. The exercise machine according to claim 2, wherein the second end of the inclined legs are configured to be placed on the ground.
4. The exercise machine according to claim 3, wherein a distance between the second ends of the inclined legs is adjustable.
5. The exercise machine according to claim 1 , wherein the backrest has a substantially flat frontal plane, wherein the exercise machine further comprises a second backrest located below the backrest, and wherein the second backrest has a contoured frontal plane.
6. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the backrest is connected to the support frame such that the backrest is inclined relative to a horizontal plane of the ground.
7. The exercise machine according to claim 6, wherein an angle of inclination of the backrest is adjustable.
8. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the backrest inclines forward and backwards in relation to the bench during the arm pull-down exercises.Docket No.: FPAT 1119. The exercise machine according to claim 1 , further comprising two roller pads located at a second end of one of the pair of inclined legs, wherein the roller pads are configured whereby a user’s feet are placed behind and under the roller pads.
10. The exercise machine according to claim 9, wherein the roller pads are made from materials selected from the group consisting of memory foam, ethylene vinyl acetate foam, polyurethane foam, latex foam, gel-infused foam, and combinations thereof.
11. The exercise machine according to claim 9, wherein the roller pads do not move during use.
12. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a connecting bar coupled to an end of the support frame, wherein the connecting bar has a longitudinal axis parallel to a plane of the ground and two ends.
13. The exercise machine according to claim 12, wherein the handle bars are pivotally connected adjacent to each end of the two ends of the connecting bar.
14. The exercise machine according to claim 13, wherein the handle bars are configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the connecting bar and pivot in relation to the plane of the ground and to a frontal plane of the backrest.
15. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a first weight stack operably coupled to the handle bars.
16. The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the first weight stack is configured to create resistance during the arm pull-down exercises.
17. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a second weight stack operably coupled to the backrest.
18. The exercise machine according to claim 17, wherein the second weight stack is configured to create resistance during the spine flexion exercises.Docket No.: FPAT 11119. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a first range controller configured to adjust and limit a range of an angular motion of the handle bars during the arm pull-down exercises.
20. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a second range controller configured to adj ust and limit an inclination range of the backrest during the spine flexion exercises.