Exercise machine to facilitate hip flexion and trunk extension exercises
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure US2026013437_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE HIP FLEXION AND TRUNK EXTENSION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to fitness equipment, and more specifically, to an exercise machine designed to facilitate hip flexion and trunk extension exercises. The exercise machine enables users to seamlessly integrate hip abduction / adduction exercises with trunk extension exercises, offering a comprehensive upper body workout that targets multiple muscles of the upper body, the lower body, and the core.BACKGROUND
[0002] As physical activity science and rehabilitation practices evolve, there has been a growing recognition of the need for exercise regimens that engage the human body’s natural movement patterns, promote overall functional strength, and reduce the strain on isolated joints. Many conventional exercise machines target individual muscle groups in isolation, which can lead to imbalances and a lack of functional integration between muscles. Furthermore, isolated exercises often fail to mimic the dynamic and coordinated movements involved in daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and lifting objects, which require the integrated use of multiple muscle groups.
[0003] One critical movement pattern that is commonly observed in these activities is the combined action of hip flexion and trunk extension. These movements occur together when a person walks, climbs stairs, or performs activities that require stability and mobility of the lower and upper body. Hip abduction and adduction involve the movement of the leg away and towards the midline of the body, respectively, while trunk extension refers to the backward bending or straightening of the spine. These movements are essential for maintaining balance, coordinating movement, and ensuring optimal posture. However, existing exercise equipment tends to primarily focus either on isolating the lower body or the upper body, without addressing the synergistic integration of hip flexion and trunk extension.
[0004] Consequently, individuals may experience improvements in isolated muscle strength but fail to develop the coordinated muscle engagement necessary for functional activities. Additionally, isolated movements can place undue stress on specific joints, especially the hip, knee, and lower back, which may lead to discomfort, poor posture, or increased risk of injury.
[0005] Efforts have been made in the past to improve various aspects of exercises for the hip and trunk. However, such techniques often target one area at a time rather than engagingmultiple muscle groups in a coordinated manner. For instance, hip flexion exercise machines primarily focus on the hip abductors and hip adductors by isolating the inner thighs, while trunk extension exercise machines target the muscles of the lower back, such as the erector spinae. While these exercise machines can be effective for strengthening specific muscle groups, they do not mimic the functional movements required in real-world activities. Some conventional exercise equipment attempt to integrate multiple muscle groups. For example, certain functional training exercise machines or multi-functional workout stations include exercises that incorporate both lower body and upper body movements. However, these exercise machines tend to focus on complex motions involving multiple joint actions and often fail to specifically address the combined movement of hip flexion and trunk extension, which requires coordinated lower body and trunk stabilization.
[0006] Additionally, the conventional exercise machines typically require the user to remain in a fixed seated position, which can limit the natural range of motion of the hip joint. This restricted positioning can interfere with the fluidity of natural hip movements, especially those that occur when walking or performing weight-bearing activities. Furthermore, if the user does not maintain proper posture while using the exercise machine, the seated position can place undue strain on the lower back. This misalignment may lead to discomfort or increase the risk of injury, particularly in the lumbar region, where the back is more vulnerable to strain when not properly supported or aligned during exercise.SUMMARY
[0007] Thus, existing workout solutions may not adequately promote stability and balance or address the need for improved posture during exercise. Many exercise machines fail to incorporate the natural biomechanical principles that support the body’s alignment during functional movement, leaving users at risk of misalignment and inefficient muscle use.
[0008] In light of the aforesaid deficiencies of existing exercise equipment, the present invention provides an exercise machine designed to facilitate the simultaneous performance of hip flexion and trunk extension exercises. This integrated exercise machine aims to improve overall strength and balance by promoting coordination between the core and lower back muscles, which are critical for stability and posture. The exercise machine utilizes a biomechanically efficient design that mimics natural movements such as walking, climbing stairs, and other activities requiring trunk extension and hip abduction / adduction. By enabling these movements to occur together in a controlled, functional manner, the exercise machine engages multiple muscle groups across the core, lower back, and lower body, while reducingthe strain on isolated joints. This integration also promotes better posture, enhances overall mobility, and improves coordination for real-world activities.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment that allows users to perform hip flexion exercises with enhanced effectiveness and greater muscle engagement, ensuring a more comprehensive and impactful workout for the lower body and core.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to offer an exercise machine that significantly improves upon conventional hip exercise machines by enhancing biomechanics. This improvement results in a more balanced workout, particularly targeting both the lower body and upper body, for a more holistic approach to fitness.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine capable of integrating both hip flexion and trunk extension exercises into a single system. This integration promotes balanced development of the upper body, lower body, and core, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously for more efficient and comprehensive training.
[0012] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables users to target a wider range of muscle groups by simultaneously engaging muscles of the back, thighs, and core. This setup helps maintain proper alignment and optimal movement patterns while facilitating a full-body workout.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that integrates hip abduction (the movement of the legs outward) or hip adduction (the movement of the legs inward) with trunk extension exercises. This integration ensures that both these exercises promote natural biomechanical motion, aligning with the body’s natural mechanics during exercise.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to offer an exercise machine that takes a holistic approach to fitness, targeting multiple muscle groups within a single apparatus. This design ensures users can achieve a balanced, effective workout while minimizing the need for multiple pieces of equipment.
[0015] Another obj ective of the present invention is to optimize muscle engagement across the back, thighs, and core, helping users achieve a balanced workout while also minimizing the risk of improper form and injury. This targeted engagement supports proper alignment and more effective strength training.
[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables independent adjustments for both the hip abduction / adduction and trunk extension exercises. This allows users to modify the intensity of each exercise to suit their fitness level and specific training goals, providing a customizable experience.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to promote functional fitness by integrating hip flexion and trunk extension exercises into a unified system. This configuration enhances strength, flexibility, coordination, and body control. The exercise machine is especially beneficial for athletes and individuals seeking to improve their ability to perform daily tasks such as walking, running, climbing stairs, and lifting objects.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, unlike conventional equipment requiring multiple exercise machines for different exercises, consolidates a range of exercises into a single, integrated unit. This space-efficient design is ideal for gyms and home fitness environments, offering a comprehensive solution for strength, flexibility, and overall fitness improvement.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to offer an exercise machine that strengthens and tones multiple muscle groups by closely aligning with human biomechanics. The design facilitates multi-planar movement, allowing users to perform exercises that reflect natural motion patterns and enhance functional strength.
[0020] A further object of the present invention is to simulate natural, functional movements of the human body, improving neuromuscular coordination, balance, and flexibility. This holistic approach to training reduces the risk of injury by aligning exercises with the body’s natural movement mechanics, rather than forcing it into artificial or rigid patterns.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to improve the overall effectiveness and applicability of hip flexion exercises and trunk extension movements. By offering a more holistic and functional approach, the exercise machine provides a better way to train multiple muscle groups while promoting natural movement patterns.
[0022] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables users to perform hip abduction / adduction exercises while more accurately replicating the natural, integrated movements needed for functional tasks. This improved replication enhances the transferability of strength and coordination to real-world activities.
[0023] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that is easily adjustable, accommodating users of various heights, body types, and fitness levels. This ensures inclusivity and accessibility, allowing a broader range of individuals to benefit from the exercise machine, making it more suitable for diverse users within the fitness community.
[0024] The present invention provides an exercise machine designed to support exercises involving both hip flexion and trunk extension, while promoting proper form and alignment.With adjustable settings, the exercise machine can accommodate users of various sizes and fitness levels, making it both versatile and user-friendly. The exercise machine’ s design ensures a smooth, controlled motion that minimizes the risk of injury by maintaining the body’s alignment with functional biomechanics. The exercise machine is adaptable to different users, allowing for a variety of resistance settings to cater to both beginners and advanced athletes. Through consistent use, the exercise machine facilitates improvements in strength, flexibility, posture, and balance, ultimately contributing to better functional movement and physical performance in everyday activities. By combining trunk extension and hip flexion movements in one device, the exercise machine overcomes limitations of existing workout solutions, enhancing users’ overall health outcomes. Thus, the exercise machine fulfills a key need in physical therapy while also supporting broader fitness goals through safe and effective training.
[0025] The exercise machine includes a stable base platform that rests securely on a flat surface, and a seat ergonomically designed to provide comfort and support, making it easier for the user to perform exercises while seated. The seat may be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to accommodate users of different sizes and ensure that users can maintain proper form during their workout. This flexibility ensures that users can find an optimal seated position for performing exercises. The exercise machine also includes a pair of abductor pads positioned in front of the seat and adapted for users to rest their knees on while seated. The abductor pads move in a lateral direction only when the user pushes them with their knees, allowing for hip abduction exercises. The movement of the abductor pads targets the abductor muscles, such as the gluteus medius and minimus, and can also facilitate hip adduction exercises, which work the adductor muscles.
[0026] In some embodiments, the abductor pads may be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, enabling users to position them correctly based on their body size and comfort level. The abductor pads may be configured to move back to their starting position once the user releases the load / pressure, enabling smooth transitions between exercises.
[0027] In some embodiments, each abductor pad may be equipped with a footrest to support the user’s foot during the hip flexion exercises, ensuring proper body alignment.
[0028] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack that provides adjustable resistance for the movement of the abductor pads. The weight stack allows users to modify the difficulty of the exercise based on their fitness level, ensuring a more personalized workout. The first weight stack is connected to the abductor pads such that the abductor pads only move when the user actively pushes them, providing more control duringthe hip abduction exercise. Once the user releases the force, the pads return to their starting position, thereby facilitating hip adduction exercise.
[0029] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first range controller that limits movement of the abductor pads in the lateral direction. The first range controller helps ensure the abductor pads do not move beyond a safe and comfortable range, protecting the user from injury. The first range controller provides users the ability to fine-tune the motion to match their flexibility and comfort levels, promoting safety and targeted muscle activation. By restricting excessive movement of the abductor pads, the first range controller also helps reduce the risk of strain during the hip abduction / adduction exercise.
[0030] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a lever pad installed at the rear of the seat, designed to provide support for the user’s back, in the seated position. The lever pad moves in a longitudinal direction of the seat based on a pushing load applied by the user, which enables trunk extension exercises. As the user pushes against the lever pad, it rotates about a transverse axis, stretching the user’s spine and engaging muscles in the lower back, such as the erector spinae and multifidus. This movement complements the hip flexion exercise by promoting spinal health and targeting back-stabilizing muscles.
[0031] In some embodiments, the lever pad may be fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, allowing users to position it correctly based on their body size and proportions.
[0032] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may feature a second weight stack configured to adjust the resistance for rotary movement of the lever pad. Similar to the first weight stack, the second weight stack allows users to select the appropriate level of resistance for their trunk extension exercises. The second weight stack may be connected to the lever pad to ensure that the lever pad moves in the longitudinal direction only when the user applies the pushing load to it, and the lever pad smoothly returns to its starting position once the pushing load is released. This design enables users to perform trunk extension exercises with control, ensuring effective muscle engagement while maintaining safety throughout the trunk extension movement.
[0033] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may be equipped with a second range controller configured to limit the range of motion for the lever pad’s rotary movement. The second range controller 112' ensures that the lever pad does not move beyond a safe range, preventing excessive motion that could lead to injury.
[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. The drawings 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 hip flexion exercises integrated with trunk extension movements, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIGs. 2 and 3 show exemplary perspective views of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate another exemplary perspective view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] 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.
[0040] Embodiments described herein refer to an exercise machine designed to allow users to perform hip flexion exercises alongside trunk extension movements, offering an innovative approach to full-body strength training. This combination of exercises improves biomechanics and functional movement by engaging multiple muscle groups in both the upper and lower body simultaneously. The exercise machine supports hip abduction / adduction exercises that effectively target the abductor muscles, such as the gluteus medius and minimus, as well as the adductor muscles, including the adductor longus, brevis, magnus, gracilis, pectineus, and obturator externus. Meanwhile, the trunk extension movements activate lower back muscles like the erector spinae and multifidus, along with supporting muscles such as the glutes, quadratus lumborum, and trapezius. This combination not only strengthens the thighs and the lower body but also ensures a more balanced and holistic development. Additionally, by integrating trunk extension movements with hip flexion exercises, the exercise machine helps activate and strengthen the back-stabilizing muscles, which are essential in reducing the risk of spine injuries.
[0041] The exercise machine described here offers significant advantages over traditional fitness equipment by combining hip flexion (abduction or adduction) and trunk extension movements into one device. This integration provides a comprehensive full-body workout that enhances strength, stability, and functional movement patterns for both the upper and lower body. By incorporating both movements into a single piece of equipment, users can engage a broader range of muscle groups, leading to a more effective and balanced workout. This dualaction design not only builds muscle strength but also improves muscle coordination and stability. Additionally, the combination of hip flexion and trunk extension mimics real-life motions like walking, running, twisting, pushing, and pulling, which are relevant to daily activities and athletic performance. By targeting muscles used in these everyday movements, the exercise machine boosts functional strength, increases mobility, and reduces the risk of injury during routine tasks. This makes the exercise machine an excellent choice for both general fitness and sport-specific training, helping users develop strength that is directly applicable to real-world situations.
[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary side view of an exercise machine 100 designed for facilitating hip flexion exercises integrated with trunk extension movements. The exercise machine (referred to as the “exercise machine” herein) 100 is equipped with a sturdy base platform 102 that securely rests on a flat surface, providing a stable foundation for the exercise machine. The exercise machine 100 includes a seat 104 mounted on the base platform 102, which supports a user in a seated posture, ensuring ease of use during exercises. The seat 104 may be designed to offer ergonomic support for the user in this seated posture, while also assisting the user in performing dynamic exercises that engage various upper body muscle groups. Additionally, the seat 104 may be equipped with a cushioning layer that enhances comfort and promotes a more relaxed and safe workout experience.
[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104 may be fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, allowing it to accommodate users of different body sizes and ensuring optimal positioning during exercises. The seat 104 may also be adapted to be adjustable with respect to its inclination angle relative to a horizontal axis, enabling the user to easily customize the angle of the seat based on their body proportions and preferences.
[0044] The seat 104 may be equipped with a pair of handles 104-1, which are attached to the lateral sides of the seat. These handles allow the user to grip them during the exercise for added stability and control. Each handle 104-1 may include a gripping portion with an antiskid coating, which helps enhance comfort and safety by providing a secure grip during use.
[0045] The machine 100 also includes a pair of abductor pads 113 mounted on abductor arms 106 positioned in front of the seat 104. These pads allow the user, while seated, to rest their knees on the lateral portions of each abductor pad 106. Each abductor pad 106 may be configured to remain in a fixed starting position in front of the seat 104. The pad moves away from the starting position in a lateral direction only when the user pushes it with their knee, which is a result of the user’s leg moving away from their body. This design facilitates hip abduction exercises, primarily targeting the abductor muscles, such as the gluteus medius and minimus. The abductor pad 106 may also be configured to move back to its starting position when the user reduces or releases the force exerted on the pad, facilitating hip adduction exercises that primarily target the adductor muscles, such as the adductor longus, brevis, magnus, gracilis, pectineus, and obturator extemus. Additionally, the abductor pads 113 may be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, ensuring they can be properly positioned to accommodate users of different body sizes during exercises.
[0046] Each of the abductor pads 113 may be designed to move along a pre-defined path in the lateral direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the abductor pads 113 may be configured to move along a linear path. Alternatively, each of the abductor pads 113 may be designed to rotate hingedly about a pivot point with respect to the seat 104. This movement of the abductor pads 113 allows the user, while seated, to perform hip abduction and adduction exercises by laterally moving the abductor pads 113. This movement enables the user’s knees to follow a more natural path during the hip flexion exercise, promoting a functional and efficient movement pattern that may enhance the overall activation of the hip abductor and adductor muscles. In an exemplary embodiment, the side portion of each abductor pad 106 may be equipped with a cushioning layer, providing comfort and safety for the user while resting their knee during the hip flexion exercise. Additionally, each abductor pad 106 may include a footrest 108 that securely supports the user’s foot during the hip flexion exercises.
[0047] The machine 100 may include a first weight stack 110, which allows the user to adjust the resistance for the movement of the abductor pads 113 from their starting positions. The first weight stack 110 enables users to tailor the resistance to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. This allows the user to select the appropriate weight and adjust the resistance encountered by the abductor pads 113 during the hip flexion exercise.
[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the first weight stack 110 may be connected to each of the abductor pads 113 via a cable and pulley mechanism. This system ensures that the abductor pads 113 only move from their starting positions when the user, while seated, pushesthe pads away from their body to perform the hip abduction exercise. When the pushing load is no longer applied, each abductor pad 106 returns to its starting position, enabling the user to perform hip adduction exercises with smooth, controlled motion.
[0049] The machine 100 may also include a first range controller 112 configured to govern the range of motion of each abductor pad 106 along its pre-defined path in the lateral direction. The first range controller 112 serves to restrict the movement of the abductor pads 113, ensuring that they do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This feature minimizes the risk of injury while allowing users to fine-tune the range of motion based on their preferences. The first range controller 112 is essential for preventing excessive movement, which could cause discomfort or strain. By providing precise control over the abductor pads’ range of motion, the first range controller 112 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels, including those recovering from injuries.
[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 112 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 that guides the movement of the abductor pad 106 along its pre-defined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the abductor pad 106. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved along the track and securely fixed in place by engaging one of these slots. As the user completes a full range of motion during the hip flexion exercise, the first range controller 112 prevents the abductor pad 106 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
[0051] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the exercise machine 100 also includes a lever pad 114, which is configured with the seat 104 to support the user’s back while they are seated. The lever pad 114 is mounted at the rear of the seat 104 and is designed to provide support to the user’s back during the exercise. The lever pad 114 may be adapted to move away from the seat 104 along a longitudinal direction based on the pushing load exerted by the user. This allows the user to perform trunk extension exercises effectively. The lever pad 114 is configured to move hingedly relative to the seat 104, rotating about a transverse axis located below the seat 104 as a result of the pushing force applied by the user in a seated posture. This hinging motion elongates the user’s spine, resulting in trunk extension. Performing this trunk extension movement in conjunction with the hip flexion exercise targets lower back muscles such as the erector spinae and multifidus, along with supporting muscles like the glutes, quadratus lumborum, and trapezius, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the hip flexionexercise. The integration of the trunk extension movement with the hip flexion exercise improves biomechanics and promotes the strengthening of back-stabilizing muscles, which are crucial for reducing the risk of spinal injuries.
[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the lever pad 114 is fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions to accommodate users of various body sizes, ensuring optimal positioning during exercises. The lever pad 114 may also be locked at one or more positions relative to the seat 104, allowing the user to customize its starting position based on their body proportions and preferences.
[0053] The machine 100 may also include a second weight stack 116 that enables the user to adjust the resistance for the rotary movement of the lever pad 114 from its starting position. The second weight stack 116 allows users to tailor the resistance to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. The user can select a specific weight on the second weight stack 116 to modify the resistance encountered by the lever pad 114 during the trunk extension movement.
[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the second weight stack 116 may be connected to the lever pad 114 via a cable and pulley mechanism. This setup ensures that the lever pad 114 moves in the longitudinal direction only when the user, while seated, applies a sufficient pushing force. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the lever pad 114 returns to its starting position, creating a smooth and controlled motion that enhances the effectiveness of the trunk extension movement. This design also adds versatility to the exercise machine, allowing users to perform a variety of upper-body strengthening exercises with precise resistance adjustments.
[0055] The machine 100 may also feature a second range controller 112' configured to regulate the range of rotary motion of the lever pad 114 about the transverse axis. This second range controller 112' restricts the movement of the lever pad 114, ensuring that it does not exceed a safe and comfortable limit. The second range controller 112' is essential for minimizing the risk of injury and provides users with the ability to fine-tune the range of motion of the lever pad 114 according to their preferences. By offering precise control over the movement of the lever pad 114, the second range controller 112' enhances safety, effectively targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.
[0056] The second range controller 112' 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, which guides the rotary movement of the lever pad 114 about the transverseaxis. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of motion of the lever pad 114. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved along the track and securely fixed in place by engaging one of these slots. As the user completes the trunk extension movement, the second range controller 112' prevents the lever pad 114 from moving beyond the defined limit, ensuring safe and controlled motion throughout the exercise. In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 112 and the second range controller 112' may be integrated into a single assembly.
[0057] The first and second weight stacks 110 and 116 provide resistance to the movement of the abductor pads 113 and the lever pad 114, respectively. This resistance mechanism enables users to transition smoothly between the hip flexion and trunk extension movements, ensuring a seamless shift between exercises. By facilitating a smooth transition, the machine 100 reduces the risk of joint strain, promoting a safer and more effective workout. The first and second weight stacks are designed to maintain consistent resistance throughout both exercises, preventing sudden changes in force that could cause discomfort or injury.
[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the hip flexion exercise and transition to the trunk extension movement after completing one full range of motion of the hip flexion exercise. To perform the integrated workout, the user can first adjust the seat 104, the abductor pads 113, and the lever pad 114 to their desired starting positions. After selecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks, the user can engage in the hip flexion exercise by activating their hip abductor and adductor muscles, including the gluteus medius and minimus, and the adductor longus, brevis, magnus, gracilis, pectineus, and obturator extemus, to push the abductor pads 113 away from their body in the lateral direction. Once the full range of motion of the hip flexion exercise is completed, i.e., when the abductor pads 113 are pushed by the user in the lateral direction to the maximum extent defined by the first range controller 112 and then returned to their starting positions, the user can transition into the trunk extension exercise by applying force to the lever pad 114. This results in the pivot movement of the lever pad 114 about the transverse axis, enabling a slight natural spinal extension after the hip flexion exercise. This natural spinal extension activates the back-stabilizing muscles, such as the erector spinae and multifidus, along with supporting muscles like the glutes, quadratus lumborum, and trapezius, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of the hip flexion exercise.
[0059] In another exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the trunk extension exercise and transition to the hip flexion exercise after completing one full range of motion of the trunk extension exercise. To perform this workout, the user can, afterselecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks, engage in the trunk extension exercise by activating their lower back muscles to push the lever pad 114 in the longitudinal direction. Once the full range of motion of the trunk extension exercise is completed, i.e., when the lever pad 114 is pushed by the user in the longitudinal direction to the maximum extent defined by the second range controller 112' and then moved back to its starting position, the user can transition into the hip abduction / adduction exercise by activating their hip abductor and adductor muscles to push the abductor pads 113 in the lateral direction. Thus, the integration of the trunk extension movement with the hip flexion motion improves biomechanics, promotes natural spine movement during both movements, and enhances overall health and stability for the user.
[0060] The machine 100 features adjustable seat 104, abductor pads 113, and lever pad 114 to cater to the individual anatomical and biomechanical differences of various users. This adjustability ensures that users can modify the positions of the seat 104, the abductor pads 113, and the lever pad 114 to align with their unique joint mechanics, optimizing comfort and minimizing the risk of strain or injury. By allowing these adjustments, the machine 100 accommodates a wide range of body types and movement styles, ensuring that each user can perform the exercises with proper form and efficiency. The weight stacks 110 and 116 are also designed to provide resistance that transition smoothly between the hip flexion and trunk extension exercises. This fluid transition minimizes potential joint strain during the shift from one movement to the other. Unlike conventional exercise equipment, which may involve abrupt changes in resistance that can place undue stress on the joints, the machine 100 ensures a seamless transition in the resistance for both the abductor pads 113 and the lever pad 114, maintaining a safe and effective workout. Additionally, the machine 100 allows for natural spinal movement during both trunk extension and hip flexion movements, reducing the likelihood of restricted spine movement that could lead to muscle imbalances or injury over time. Thus, the exercise 100 not only enhances the effectiveness of the hip flexion exercise but also contributes to better spine health, improving performance in both strength training and daily activities.
[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 hip flexion and trunk extension exercises, comprising:a. a base platform (102);b. a seat (104) mounted on the base platform (102);c. a pair of abductor pads (113) mounted on respective abductor arms (106), wherein the abductor arms (106) are operatively coupled to the base platform (102) and positioned in front of the seat (104);d. a lever pad (114) mounted at the rear of the seat (104) and configured to rotate about a transverse axis;e. a first weight stack (110) to provide resistance for the movement of the abductor arms (106);f. a second weight stack (116) connected to the lever pad (114); andg. a variable adjustment mechanism (104, 114) in the back of the machine (100).
2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein each abductor pad (106) is configured to move away from the starting position in the lateral direction when a user pushes it with their knee and move back to the starting position when the user releases the load.
3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the lever pad (114) is configured to move hingedly relative to the seat (104) based on a pushing load applied by a user.
4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (110) provides adjustable resistance for the movement of the abductor pads (106) and the second weight stack (116) provides adjustable resistance for the rotary movement of the lever pad (114).
5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the variable adjustment mechanism (104, 114) is configured to allow users of various sizes and heights to adjust the machine (100) to their sizes.
6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (112) configured to govern a range of motion of each abductor pad (106) along a pre-defined path inthe lateral direction; and a second range controller (112') configured to limit the range of motion for the lever pad’s rotary movement.
7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 6, wherein the first range controller (112) and the second range controller (112') are integrated into a single assembly.
8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 6, wherein the first range controller (112) comprises 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 abductor pad (106).
9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the variable adjustment mechanism (104, 114) comprises the seat (104) being fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions and being adapted to be adjustable with respect to its inclination angle relative to a horizontal axis.
10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the variable adjustment mechanism (104, 114) comprises the lever pad (114) being fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions.
11. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein each abductor pad (106) includes a footrest (108) to support the user’s foot.
12. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is equipped with a pair of handles (104-1) attached to the lateral sides of the seat (104).
13. The exercise machine (100) of claim 12, wherein each handle (104-1) includes a gripping portion with an anti-skid coating.
14. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (110) and the second weight stack (116) are designed to maintain consistent resistance to facilitate a smooth transition between exercises.