Exercise machine to facilitate shoulder external rotation and shoulder press 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 US2026013440_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE SHOULDER EXTERNAL ROTATION AND SHOULDER PRESS EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to exercise equipment, and more particularly to an exercise machine designed to facilitate efficient performance of exercises that combine external rotation and shoulder press movements. The exercise machine is configured to enhance shoulder mobility, strength, and overall functionality by specifically targeting external rotation and shoulder press movements.BACKGROUND
[0002] Shoulder exercises play a critical role in maintaining and improving the mobility, strength, and stability of the shoulder joint. The shoulder joint, being one of the most complex and mobile joints in the human body, is prone to a variety of injuries and conditions such as rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder. Effective rehabilitation and strengthening exercises are essential for recovery from these injuries and for preventing future issues.
[0003] Existing exercise equipment primarily focuses on either compound movements, such as seat presses and pull-ups, or isolation exercises like bicep curls and lateral raises. While these exercises are beneficial, they do not specifically address the combination of external rotation and shoulder press movements.
[0004] External rotation exercises are particularly important for strengthening the rotator cuff muscles, which are crucial for stabilizing the shoulder joint. External rotation is also a critical movement for shoulder health, as it engages key muscles such as the infraspinatus and teres minor. These muscles play a vital role in stabilizing the shoulder during various activities. Insufficient external rotation can lead to an increased risk of injury and reduced performance in activities requiring overhead movements. On the other hand, shoulder press exercises are fundamental for developing the deltoid muscles and overall shoulder strength. Current exercise equipment often requires users to perform a series of exercises using various equipment, which can be time-consuming and inefficient. Additionally, traditional exercise machines may not provide the necessary support or proper alignment for individuals with shoulder injuries, potentially leading to improper form and further injury.
[0005] Conventional exercise equipment often employs manual resistance exercises, where patients perform movements with free weights or resistance bands. However, these techniquescan be limited by the user’s ability to maintain proper form and control throughout the workout. Some existing equipment provide assistance for external rotation movements but may lack versatility for integrating shoulder press exercises, which are also crucial for comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation.SUMMARY
[0006] Despite the availability of various exercise modalities, there remains a gap in the market for a specialized machine that simultaneously facilitates both external rotation and shoulder press exercises. Additionally, some existing exercise machines require users to move their shoulders in fixed motion paths that may not align with the natural movement of the shoulder joints, which can cause discomfort during the workout. Incorrect seating posture can further lead to joint misalignment, resulting in inefficient biomechanics and potentially causing strain or injury. Thus, the existing exercise machines do not adequately address the unique biomechanical requirements of these movements or provide the necessary support to ensure safe and effective training.
[0007] There is, therefore, a significant need for an exercise machine that combines the benefits of external rotation and shoulder press exercises in a single apparatus. Such an apparatus would address the limitations of existing equipment by providing targeted exercises for both the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles, thereby enhancing the outcomes of shoulder rehabilitation and strengthening workouts. The exercise machine would be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing physical therapy, athletes recovering from shoulder injuries, and fitness enthusiasts seeking comprehensive shoulder workouts. By allowing users to perform both external rotation and shoulder press exercises in a controlled environment, the exercise machine can effectively target multiple muscle groups involved in shoulder stability.
[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment that enables users to simultaneously perform shoulder external rotation and shoulder press exercises.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to offer resistance to shoulder external rotation and shoulder press movements in a way that enhances strength, flexibility, and rotational movement across various muscle groups, including the rotator cuffs (external rotators), deltoids, biceps, and triceps of the upper 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 that optimizes muscle engagement across the upper body, helping users achieve a balanced workout while minimizing the risk of improper form and injury.
[0012] Another object of the present is to provide an exercise machine that allows users to perform shoulder external rotation exercises combined with shoulder press movements, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This combination targets not only the deltoids, biceps, and triceps but also the rotator cuff muscles and other muscles of the upper body.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that promotes independent adjustments of both the shoulder external rotation exercise and the shoulder press 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 shoulder external rotation motion with shoulder press 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 cricket, tennis, basketball, and swimming.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, unlike conventional equipment that may require multiple machines for different exercises, consolidates multiple exercises into a single integrated unit, providing a space-efficient solution for gyms and home fitness spaces. By integrating shoulder external rotation and shoulder press movements, the exercise machine offers a comprehensive solution for users looking to improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness in a safe, controlled manner.
[0016] 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.
[0017] Another obj ect of the present invention is to simulate natural, functional movements of the human body, enhancing neuromuscular coordination, improving balance, and reducing the risk of injury by training the body in a more holistic manner, rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial patterns.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that improves both the effectiveness and applicability of shoulder external rotation and shoulder press exercises, offering a more holistic and functional approach to strength training.
[0019] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables users to perform shoulder strengthening exercises while more accurately replicating the natural, integrated movements required for functional tasks.
[0020] Still 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.
[0021] The present invention provides an exercise machine that facilitates the performance of exercises targeting both external rotation and shoulder press movements, ensuring proper form and alignment. By incorporating adjustable settings, the exercise machine can accommodate users of different sizes and fitness levels, making it a versatile and user-friendly piece of equipment. The exercise machine is configured to minimize the risk of improper form or injury that can occur with free weights or less-specialized equipment. By integrating shoulder external rotation and shoulder press functionalities into one apparatus, the exercise machine addresses shortcomings and deficiencies associated with current rehabilitation practices while promoting better outcomes for users seeking to improve their shoulder health. Thus, the exercise machine not only meets a significant need within physical therapy but also contributes to broader fitness goals by enabling safe and effective training regimens.
[0022] The exercise machine is designed to enable users to perform shoulder external rotation exercises integrated with shoulder press exercises, providing an innovative solution for comprehensive upper body strength training. The exercise machine offers superior performance by integrating shoulder external rotation exercises with shoulder press movements. This combination enhances biomechanics and functional movement of the shoulders by promoting the simultaneous engagement of multiple muscle groups and improving the stability of the shoulder joints. The shoulder press exercise effectively targets the deltoids, biceps, and triceps, while the shoulder external rotation exercise activates the rotator cuff muscles. The exercise machine includes a base platform that ensures stability on flat surfaces and a seat mounted on the base platform to support a user in a seated position. The seat may include a backrest for ergonomic support, helping users perform upper body exercises comfortably and preventing back strain during prolonged use. The seat and backrest may beadjustable vertically and horizontally to fit users of various sizes, ensuring proper alignment and posture during exercises, which is essential for comfort and safety.
[0023] In some embodiments, the machine also includes handles installed on the lateral sides of the backrest for users to grab while seated. These handles are interconnected through a connecting bar and can rotate vertically around a horizontal axis, allowing users to perform shoulder press exercises. This movement targets the deltoids, biceps, and triceps, helping to build upper body strength by pushing the handles upward. Alternatively, instead of rotating the handles, the connecting bar moves vertically upward when the handles are pushed overhead, enabling users to perform the shoulder press exercise.
[0024] In some embodiments, each of the handles may be equipped with a gripping portion for the user to grab during the exercise, and a cushioned elbow pad adapted to support the user’s elbow while the user grabs the gripping portion using their hand.
[0025] In some embodiments, the handles may be adapted to rotate horizontally around a vertical axis, facilitating shoulder external rotation exercises. This action specifically targets the rotator cuff muscles, which are crucial for shoulder stability and mobility, based on the movement of the handles in a lateral direction relative to the user in the seated position.
[0026] In some embodiments, the handles may be adjustable along the connecting bar to suit user preferences. This adjustability enhances comfort and exercise effectiveness by allowing users to optimize their range of motion. A locking mechanism may be configured to secure the handles in place once set in the desired position to prevent unwanted movement during exercise. The locking mechanism provides added safety by preventing the handles from shifting during use, ensuring that users can maintain proper form and focus on their exercises without interruptions.
[0027] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack that lets users adjust the resistance for the handles’ pivot movement around the horizontal axis during the shoulder press exercise. This customization provides a personalized workout experience by enabling users to select the appropriate resistance for the shoulder press exercise. The first weight stack may be operatively coupled to the handles such that the handles are allowed to rotate about the horizontal axis only when the user applies sufficient force to push the handles and rotate them about the horizontal axis. The handles may be adapted to return to their original position when the force is released, ensuring smooth and controlled movement of the handles.
[0028] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first range controller that limits the range of rotary motion of the handles about the horizontal axis. The first range controller enhances safety by preventing excessive movement, allowing users to fine-tune the range of motion of the handles according to their preferences, targeting specific muscle groups effectively.
[0029] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a second weight stack configured to allow users to adjust the resistance for the pivot movement of the handles about the vertical axis during the external rotation exercise. The second weight stack provides a personalized workout experience, letting users select the resistance for shoulder external rotation exercises. The second weight stack may be operatively coupled to the handles to enable the handles to rotate about the vertical axis only when the user in the seated position applies sufficient force to push the handles in the lateral direction. This creates smooth, controlled movements that enhance the shoulder external rotation exercise’s effectiveness and adds versatility to the exercise machine for various upper body workouts.
[0030] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a second range controller to regulate the range of rotary motion of the handles about the vertical axis. The second range controller ensures the handles do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit in the lateral direction, minimizing injury risk and allowing users to adjust the range of motion for better safety and exercise effectiveness.
[0031] 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
[0032] 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.
[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary front perspective view of an exercise machine for facilitating shoulder external rotation exercises integrated with shoulder press exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary rear perspective view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate another exemplary perspective view of the exercise machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] 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.
[0037] Embodiments described herein relate to an exercise machine that allows users to perform shoulder external rotation exercises in conjunction with shoulder press exercises, offering a novel approach to comprehensive upper body strength training. The exercise machine offers superior performance by significantly improving biomechanics and overall functional capability. It uniquely integrates shoulder movements that engage the rotator cuff muscles in conjunction with the deltoids and triceps. This synergy not only enhances shoulder stability during shoulder press exercises but also provides a more holistic shoulder workout. Additionally, integrating external rotation movements with shoulder press exercises helps activate and strengthen stabilizing muscles, which plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of shoulder injuries.
[0038] The exercise machine of the present invention offers significant advantages over conventional exercise equipment by combining shoulder external rotation with shoulder press movements, providing a comprehensive upper body workout that enhances strength, stability, and overall functional movement patterns of the shoulders. The shoulder press motion primarily targets key upper body muscles, including the deltoids, biceps, and triceps, while the shoulder external rotation movement focuses on the rotator cuff muscles, specifically the infraspinatus and teres minor. By integrating these two movements into a single apparatus, users can engage a broader range of muscle groups, ensuring a more balanced and effective workout. This dual-action approach not only promotes muscle strength but also supports improved muscle coordination and stability. Moreover, the combination of shoulder external rotation and shoulder press movements mirrors real-life activities, such as twisting, pushing, pulling, 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, andlifting objects. This makes the exercise machine an excellent choice for both general fitness and sport-specific training, as it helps users build shoulder strength that translates seamlessly into real-world applications.
[0039] FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary front perspective view and an exemplary rear perspective view of an exercise machine 100 for facilitating shoulder external rotation exercises and shoulder press exercises, respectively. The exercise machine (also referred to as “machine” herein) 100 is equipped with a robust base platform 102 that rests securely on a flat surface, providing a stable foundation for the exercise machine 100. The machine 100 includes a seat 104 mounted on the base platform 102 to support a user in a seated posture, ensuring ease of use during exercises. The seat 104 may be equipped with a backrest 106 adapted to support the user’s back in the seated posture. The backrest 106 offers ergonomic support for the user’s back while also assisting the user in performing dynamic exercises that engage various muscle groups of the upper body. The backrest 106 is particularly beneficial during exercises that involve extended periods of maintaining the seated posture, as it helps prevent back strain and promotes a more relaxed and comfortable workout experience.
[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104, as well as the backrest 106, may be provided with cushioning layers to improve user comfort. Additionally, both the seat 104 and the backrest 106 may be fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions to accommodate users of different body sizes and ensure 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.
[0041] The machine 100 also includes a pair of handles 108 arranged on the lateral sides of the backrest 106 to allow the user in the seated posture to grab each of the handles 108 using their arms. The handles 108 may be configured to remain in a position on the lateral sides of the chest of the user in the seated posture. Each of the handles 108 may be detachably coupled to the lateral ends of a connecting bar 110 such that the handle 108 is hingedly rotatable in a vertical plane about a horizontal axis A-A, enabling the user to perform shoulder press exercises. When rotated about the horizontal axis A-A, the handles 108 allow the user to perform the shoulder press exercise, which primarily targets the deltoids, biceps, and triceps. During this exercise, the user applies a pushing load / force using their upper body muscles to push each of the handles 108 away from their body in an overhead (vertically upward) direction. This motion replicates the shoulder press movement, which is effective for building upper body strength.
[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the handles 108 may be coupled to the connecting bar 110 such that instead of the handles 108 rotating about the horizontal axis A- A, the connecting bar 110 moves in the vertically upward direction as a result of the movement of the handles 108 towards the overhead position, enabling the user to perform the shoulder press exercise.
[0043] In addition to the shoulder press motion, each of the handles 108 may be coupled to the lateral ends of the connecting bar 110 such that the handle 108 is hingedly rotatable in a horizontal plane about a vertical axis B-B, allowing the user to perform shoulder external rotation exercises. By applying a pushing force through the shoulder muscles, including the rotator cuffs and stabilizers, the user can push the handle 108 away from their body in the lateral direction. This engages the muscles responsible for the external rotation of the shoulder and helps strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, which are crucial for the stability and mobility of the shoulder.
[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the handles 108 may be equipped with a gripping portion 108-1 for the user to grab during the exercise, and an elbow pad 108-2 adapted to support the user’s elbow while the user is grabbing the gripping portion 108-1 using their hand. The elbow pad 108-2 may be cushioned and configured to serve as a resting surface for the user’s elbow to improve comfort, especially during performance of the shoulder external rotation exercise.
[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the handles 108 may be adapted to move between a plurality of predefined positions along the connecting bar 110, allowing the user to customize the position of the handles 108 based on their preferences. This 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 machine 100 may include a locking mechanism configured with each of the handles 108 to lock or restrict the movement of the corresponding handle 108 once the handles 108 are set in any of the predefined positions along the connecting bar 110. For example, at the start of the workout, the user can choose to move the handles 108 to desired positions among the predefined positions along the connecting bar 110. Thereafter, the user can actuate the locking mechanism to prevent undesired movement of the corresponding handle 108 during the exercise. The locking mechanism may include at least one pin attached to each handle 108, designed to engage one or more slots formed in the connecting bar 110 corresponding to the predefined positions, based on user preferences.
[0046] The exercise machine 100 may include a first weight stack 112 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the pivot movement of the handles 108 about the horizontal axis A-A. The first weight stack 112 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the rotational movement of the handles 108 about the horizontal axis A-A to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. The first weight stack 112 allows the user to select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the handle 108 during the shoulder press exercise.
[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the first weight stack 112 is connected to each of the handles 108 through a cable and pulley mechanism. The first weight stack 112 is configured to ensure that the handles 108 hingedly rotate about the horizontal axis A-A only when the user, present in the seated posture, applies a sufficient pushing load to the handles 108. When the pushing load is no longer applied, each of the handles 108 returns to its original position, providing a smooth and controlled exercise experience.
[0048] The exercise machine 100 may also include a first range controller (120), which governs the range of rotary motion of each of the handles 108 about the horizontal axis A-A. The first range controller (120) restricts the movement of the handles 108, ensuring that they do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This function helps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of rotary motion of the handles 108 about the horizontal axis A-A based on their preferences. The first range controller (120) is essential for preventing excessive rotary movement of the handles 108 about the horizontal axis A-A, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the range of motion of the handles 108, the first range controller (120) enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.
[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller (120) may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member placed over them. This blocking member contains a track mounted on a support frame, guiding the movement of the handle 108 along its predefined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of rotary motion of the handle 108 about the horizontal axis A-A. 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 shoulder press movement, the first range controller (120) prevents the handle 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
[0050] The exercise machine 100 may include a second weight stack 114 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the pivot movement of each of the handles 108 about the vertical axis B-B. The second weight stack 114 enables users to tailor the resistance offered to the pivot movement of the handle 108 about the vertical axis B-B according to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. Users can select a specific weight on the second weight stack 114 to adjust the resistance encountered by the handles 108 during the shoulder external rotation exercise.
[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the second weight stack 114 may be connected to each of the handles 108 through a cable and pulley mechanism. This setup ensures that the handles 108 hinge about the vertical axis B-B only when the user, seated in the proper posture, applies a sufficient pushing load to the handles 108. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the handles 108 return to their original positions, creating a controlled, fluid motion that enhances the effectiveness of the shoulder external rotation exercise. This design also increases the machine’s versatility, allowing users to perform a variety of upper body exercises with precise resistance adjustments.
[0052] The exercise machine 100 may include a second range controller (121) configured to control the range of rotary motion of each handle 108 about the vertical axis B-B. The second range controller (121) restricts the rotary movement of the handles 108 about the vertical axis B-B, ensuring that they do not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. The second range controller (121) helps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of rotary motion of the handles 108 about the vertical axis B-B according to their preferences. This range controller is essential for preventing excessive movement of the handles 108, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the pivot motion of the handles 108, the second range controller (121) enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels or those recovering from injuries.
[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller (121) may have a similar construction to the first range controller (120). It 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 each handle 108 along its predefined path. The blocking member may feature a set of slots that define and limit the range of rotary motion of the handles 108 about the vertical axis B-B. 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 theseslots. As the user completes the shoulder external rotation movement, the second range controller (121) prevents the handles 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the shoulder press exercise and transition to the shoulder external rotation exercise after completing one full range of motion of the shoulder press exercise. To perform this integrated workout, the user can first adjust the seat 104, the backrest 106, and the handles 108 to their desired positions. After selecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks 112 and 114, the user can engage in the shoulder press exercise by activating their upper body muscles, including the deltoids, biceps, triceps, and others, to push the handles 108 to rotate about the horizontal axis A-A. Once a full range of motion is completed (i.e., when the handles 108 are hingedly moved in the overhead position and then moved in the vertically downward direction), the user can transition into the shoulder external rotation exercise by pushing the handles 108 in the lateral direction to result in the pivot movement of the handles 108 about the vertical axis B-B.
[0055] In another exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the shoulder external rotation exercise and transition to the shoulder press exercise after completing one full range of motion of the shoulder external rotation exercise. To perform this integrated workout, the user can push one or more of the handles 108 in the lateral direction to rotate the handle 108 about the vertical axis B-B by engaging their rotator cuff muscles. Once a full range of motion of the shoulder external rotation exercise is completed (i.e., when the handle 108 is moved in the lateral direction and then moved back to its starting position), the user can transition into the shoulder press exercise by engaging their upper body muscles to push the handles 108 to the overhead position by rotating them about the horizontal axis A-A.
[0056] The exercise machine 100 may include a lap band or belt attached to the seat 104 to secure the user’s torso during the exercise, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring safety.
[0057] Thus, the exercise machine 100 enables users to perform shoulder external rotation exercises either individually or in combination with shoulder press exercises, or vice versa. Subsequently, the user can repeat the shoulder external rotation and shoulder press exercises to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups in the upper body and shoulders, with improved effectiveness. This integrated exercise promotes muscular coordination by engaging multiple muscle groups of the upper body simultaneously. The exercise machine 100 is specificallydesigned to align with human biomechanics, facilitating multi-planar movement that simulates natural, functional activities like twisting, pushing, pulling, 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.
[0058] 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 shoulder external rotation and shoulder press exercises, comprising:a. a base platform (102); b. a seat (104) and a backrest (106) supported by the base platform (102); c. a pair of handles (108) operatively coupled to the base platform (102); d. wherein each of the handles (108) is rotatable about a horizontal axis A-A to enable a shoulder press exercise;e. wherein each of the handles (108) is rotatable about a vertical axis B-B to allow a shoulder external rotation exercise;f. a first weight stack (112) to provide resistance for the movement about the horizontal axis A-A; and g. a second weight stack (114) to provide resistance for the movement about the vertical axis B-B.
2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) and the backrest (106) are vertically and horizontally adjustable.
3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a connecting bar (110) positioned relative to the backrest (106), wherein the handles (108) are adjustable to a plurality of predefined positions along said connecting bar (110).
4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (120) configured to govern a range of rotary motion of each of the handles (108) about the horizontal axis A-A.
5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second range controller (121) configured to regulate a range of rotary motion of each of the handles (108) about the vertical axis B-B.
6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 4 and 5, wherein the first range controller (120) and the second range controller (121) each comprise a set of blocking tracks and a blocking member featuring a set of slots to limit rotary motion.
7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein each of the handles (108) is equipped with a gripping portion (108-1) and a cushioned elbow pad (108-2) to support the user’s elbow.
8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (112) and the second weight stack (114) are coupled to the handles (108) via a cable and pulley mechanism.
9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 3, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to restrict movement of the handles (108) once set in a predefined position along the connecting bar (110).
10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a lap band or belt attached to the seat (104) to secure the user’s torso.
11. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the machine (100) is configured to allow the shoulder external rotation exercise and the shoulder press exercise to be performed as one integrated movement.