Apparatus for facilitating external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/US2026/020864
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-04-22
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING EXTERNAL FEMUR ROTATION AND TRANSVERSE TWIST EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present invention pertains to an apparatus for facilitating external femur rotation as well transverse twist exercises to effectively target multiple muscle groups across the body particularly the hips, glutes, core, and stabilizing muscles.BACKGROUND
[0002] External femur rotation and transverse twist exercises are commonly used in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and athletic training to isolate and target specific muscle groups for improving flexibility, strength, and stability. These exercises are typically performed independently, focusing on one particular movement or muscle group at a time. However, this isolated approach often fails to fully replicate the complexity and coordination required in real-world functional movements, limiting their effectiveness in promoting overall muscular engagement and joint stability.
[0003] External femur rotation involves rotating the femur outward from the hip joint, which primarily engages muscles such as the gluteus medius and minimus, the piriformis, and other stabilizing muscles around the hip. This exercise is typically performed with the individual either lying on their back or standing, with a focus on isolating and strengthening the hip rotators and improving the range of motion in the hip joint. Whereas, transverse twist exercises involve rotational movements around the spine, engaging muscles like the obliques, transverse abdominis, and other core stabilizers. The transverse twist exercise requires twisting the torso while keeping the pelvis stable, often performed using a cable machine, medicine ball, or simply through bodyweight movements. These exercises can be useful for improving core strength, stability, and rotational power, particularly in sports that require twisting movements. However, like external femur rotation, the transverse twist isolates the rotational movement of the spine and upper body without incorporating the coordination and stability of the lower body or functional movements that require multiple muscle groups working in harmony.
[0004] Existing machines designed to perform external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises typically help users perform these movements in isolation, focusing on one exercise at a time. This results in a lack of efficiency as users must switch between different machines to target multiple muscle groups, instead of performing both exercises simultaneously. Such machines may also limit the engagement of multiple muscle groups, missing the opportunityfor a more holistic workout that combines both hip mobility and core strength. Isolated exercises primarily target specific muscles or muscle groups, which may not be sufficient to enhance overall functional strength, coordination, and joint stability. Additionally, they do not promote the simultaneous activation of various muscle groups, which is essential for improving overall biomechanical performance and reducing the risk of injury.SUMMARY
[0005] In light of the aforesaid issues, there is a need to develop an improved apparatus that assists users to perform external femur rotation movement with transverse twist exercises simultaneously. This apparatus can allow individuals to engage multiple muscle groups in the body, particularly the hips, glutes, core, and stabilizing muscles during a single exercise. The apparatus can facilitate the simultaneous activation of the hip rotators and core stabilizers, promoting improved muscle coordination, functional strength, and joint stability. Furthermore, by incorporating these two exercises into one motion, the apparatus can help users better replicate real-life, multi-directional movement patterns, enhancing their overall biomechanical efficiency and reducing the risk of injury.
[0006] A general objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that enables users to perform both external rotation femur movement and transverse twist exercises simultaneously, effectively engaging multiple muscle groups including the hip rotators, core stabilizers, and supporting muscles of the lower and upper body.
[0007] An objective of the present invention is to enhance functional strength and joint stability by mimicking real -world, multi -joint movements that require coordinated muscle activation across the entire kinetic chain.
[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to help users to improve their core strength and rotational stability while maintaining the proper alignment and engagement of the hips and pelvis, by combining the external femur rotation and transverse twist movements into a single movement.
[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of training routines by allowing users to target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple isolated exercises.
[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to design the apparatus to assist users in performing the exercises with proper form and alignment, reducing the risk of strain or injury.
[0011] Yet another objective of the present invention is to help users develop improved coordination by engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously, enhancing performance in complex, and multi -joint movements such as running, lifting, or sport activities.
[0012] Still yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus designed to be easily adjustable, accommodating users of different sizes, heights, body types, and fitness levels.
[0013] The present invention pertains to an apparatus designed to facilitate efficient performance of external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises. The apparatus features a base support with a pair of rotatable leg supports (referred simply as “leg supports” hereinafter) configured to accommodate legs of a user in an upright seating position. Each of the leg supports can include a pair of tibias pads configured at side surfaces of the leg supports, ensuring that lower legs, specifically the tibias, are securely held in place while allowing for rotation of the hips as well as the femur. The tibias pads prevent unnecessary movement of the lower legs during the exercises, while providing a comfortable and stable base for the user. The tibias pads can brace the sides of the tibia, and ensure the knee joint remains stable during the rotation of the leg supports while performing the external femur rotation movement.
[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a pair of handle bars rotatably coupled to a vertical frame of the base support, to facilitate performing the transverse twist movement. The handle bars may be positioned at a chest or a shoulder height of the upper body of the user. This positioning ensures that the arms are bent at a comfortable angle, facilitating a natural and ergonomic grip while engaging in the exercise. As the user engages in the transverse twist movement, the handle bars allow the user to rotate their upper body from side to side. The handle bars rotate along with the movement of the torso and help to guide the twist to ensure proper form and posture.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each of the handle bars may include a pair of gripping handles configured to allow the user to securely hold onto the handle bars while performing the transverse twist movement. The gripping handles may include a vertical gripping handle, and a horizontal gripping handle. The vertical gripping handle may allow the user to hold the handles with their hands positioned in a vertical orientation relative to their body. The position of the hands while holding the vertical gripping handles may be optimal for engaging the core and torso rotation without excessive strain on the shoulders or wrists. On the contrary, the horizontal gripping handle may allow the user to hold the handles with their hands positioned in a horizontal orientation relative to their body, providing a wider, and more shoulder-focused grip. Holding the horizontal gripping handle may engage theshoulders and upper arm muscles more intensely while maintaining core stability during the transverse twist movement.
[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first weight stack connected to the leg supports via a cable-and-pulley system. The first weight stack may be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the external femur rotation exercise.
[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a second weight stack connected to the handle bars via a cable-and-pulley system. The second weight stack may be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the transverse twist exercise.
[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first range controller that limits angular movement of the leg supports during the external femur rotation exercise, ensuring that the user may perform the external femur rotation movement safely and effectively within a controlled range of motion. This ensures that the leg supports do not rotate beyond a certain point, helping to prevent overstretching of the hip joint or excessive rotation that could cause muscle strain or injury. Thus, the incorporation of the first range controller in the apparatus may help in optimizing biomechanics by preventing overrotation that may lead to strain or injury.
[0019] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second range controller configured to limit range of movement (i.e. left and right side movement) of the handle bars during the transverse twist movement. By limiting the range of movement of the handle bars, the second range controller may help in maintaining proper form, preventing excessive twisting that could lead to strain or injury while still allowing the user to effectively engage the core and upper body muscles.
[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the external femur rotation exercise. The apparatus may further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the transverse twist exercise.
[0021] 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
[0022] 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.
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an apparatus for assisting a user to perform external femur rotation exercises with transverse twist exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] FIGs. 2 to 5 illustrate other exemplary views of the apparatus in accordance with additional embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] 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 as defined by the present invention.
[0026] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition a person skilled in art has given that term, as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0027] Existing machines designed to perform external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises typically help users perform these movements in isolation, focusing on one exercise at a time. This results in a lack of efficiency as users must switch between different machines to target multiple muscle groups, instead of performing both exercises simultaneously. Such machines may also limit the engagement of multiple muscle groups, missing the opportunity for a more holistic workout that combines both hip mobility and core strength. Furthermore, they often fail to provide adequate stabilization and support, which can lead to improper form, discomfort, or even injury when performing these isolated exercises. Additionally, many machines offer little to no control over the range of motion, making it difficult to safely and effectively execute the movements, and they do not cater to different flexibility or body types, which further limits their effectiveness for a broad range of users.
[0028] Embodiments described herein relate to an apparatus that facilitates performing both external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises to target and strengthen multiple muscle groups. The apparatus is designed to offer a versatile workout by combining these twomovements into one machine, providing users with the ability to simultaneously engage and strengthen the lower body, core, and upper body. By allowing users to rotate the femur outward while simultaneously twisting the torso, the apparatus helps improve hip mobility, spinal flexibility joint stability, and functional strength. The design of the apparatus ensures that the user’s legs are securely stabilized in the leg supports and tibias pads, while the rotatable handle bars allow for independent upper body rotation. This combination of movements promotes muscle coordination and balance, offering an efficient and comprehensive workout that enhances both strength and flexibility. Additionally, the apparatus incorporates range controllers to ensure the exercises are performed safely within a controlled range, maximizing the effectiveness of each movement.
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary a perspective view of an apparatus 100 designed for facilitating external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises. The apparatus 100 allows a user to perform both external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises while efficiently targeting key muscle groups such as the hip rotators, gluteal muscles, core muscles, and upper body. By combining these two movements, the apparatus 100 helps in improving functional strength, joint stability, and overall coordination. The apparatus 100 includes a base support 102 with a pair of rotatable leg supports 106 (referred simply as “leg supports 106” hereinafter) configured to accommodate legs of a user in an upright seating position. The base support 102 can be typically constructed from high-strength materials such as but not limited to steel, aluminum, or other durable metals to ensure stability, longevity, and the ability to withstand the forces generated during use. The leg supports 106 can be mounted on the base support 102 via a rotating mechanism that allows them to rotate along a fixed vertical axis. Each of the leg supports 106 can include a pair of tibias pads 108 (collectively referred as “tibias pads 108” hereinafter) configured at side surfaces of the leg supports 106, ensuring that lower legs specifically the tibias are securely held in place while allowing for rotation of the hips as well as the femur. The tibias pads 108 can prevent unnecessary movement of the lower legs during the exercises, while providing a comfortable and stable base for the user. The tibias pads 108 can brace the sides of the tibias, and ensure the knee joint remains stable during the rotation of the leg supports 106 while performing the external femur rotation movement.
[0030] In an embodiment, the leg supports 106 can be adjustable in height to accommodate users of different body types. The apparatus 100 can include a height adjustment mechanism to adjust the height of the leg supports 106. The height adjustment mechanism can allow the user to customize the position of the tibias pads 108 to match the user’s leg length, ensuring proper alignment and comfort. The height adjustment can include a lever configured at the sideof the leg support 106 to secure the leg support 106 at desired height, providing stability during use.
[0031] In some embodiments, the surface of the tibias pads 108 can be covered with a durable, non-slip material such as but not limited to vinyl or leather, providing a secure grip while also being easy to clean. In an embodiment, the tibias pads 108 can be covered with cushioning materials to enhance comfort and support during the exercise. The cushioning of the tibias pads 108 can help distribute the pressure evenly across the tibia, ensuring that the user can perform the external femur rotation exercise with greater ease and comfort. The cushioning materials for the tibias pads 108 can be selected from but not limited to high-density foam, memory foam, gel foam, rubberized foam, Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, Polyurethane Foam, and the like.
[0032] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a pair of handle bars 110 (referred simply as “handle bars 110” hereinafter) rotatably coupled to a vertical frame 104 via at least one connecting bar 122 (referred simply as “connecting bar 122” hereinafter). The vertical frame 104 can be coupled to the base support 102. The handle bars 110 can be positioned at a chest or a shoulder height of the upper body of the user. This positioning ensures that the arms are bent at a comfortable angle, facilitating a natural and ergonomic grip while engaging in the exercise. As the user engages in the transverse twist movement, the handle bars 110 allow the user to rotate their upper body from side to side. The handle bars 110 rotate along with the movement of the torso and help to guide the twist to ensure proper form and posture.
[0033] In an embodiment, each of the handle bars 110 can include a set of gripping handles 112 (collectively or individually referred as “handles 112” or “handle 112” hereinafter) configured at a first end of the handle bar 110. The gripping handles 112 can allow the user to grip it to perform the exercises comfortably. The gripping handles 112 can include a vertical gripping handle 112a, and a horizontal gripping handle 112b. The vertical gripping handle 112a can allow the user to hold the handles with their hands positioned in a vertical orientation relative to their body. The position of the hands while holding the vertical gripping handles 112a can be optimal for engaging the core and torso rotation without excessive strain on the shoulders or wrists. On the contrary, the horizontal gripping handle 112b can allow the user to hold the handles with their hands positioned in a horizontal orientation relative to their body, providing a wider, and more shoulder-focused grip. Holding the horizontal gripping handle 112b can engage the shoulders and upper arm muscles more intensely while maintaining core stability during the transverse twist movement.
[0034] In an implementation, to perform the transverse twist movement, the user rotates the handle bars 110 side-to-side, guiding the movement with their hands and arms. The handle bars 110 rotate along a fixed axis, while the user's torso follows the motion, twisting to the left and right. The user rotates their upper body as the handle bars 110 are twisted, which activates the core muscles including the obliques, rectus abdominis, and transverse abdominis while also engaging the shoulders, arms, and upper back.
[0035] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a first weight stack 114 connected to the leg supports 106 via a cable-and-pulley system. The first weight stack 114 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the external femur rotation exercise. In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second weight stack 116 connected to the handle bars 110 via a cable-and-pulley system. The second weight stack 116 can be configured to provide adjustable resistance while performing the transverse twist exercise. In an embodiment, 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 embodiments, each of the first and second weight stacks 114, 116 can include a plurality of weight 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.
[0036] The apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 118 configured to limit angular movement of the leg supports 106 during the external femur rotation exercise, ensuring that the user can perform the external femur rotation movement safely and effectively within a controlled range of motion. This ensures that the leg supports 106 do not rotate beyond a certain point, helping to prevent overstretching of the hip joint or excessive rotation that could cause muscle strain or injury. Thus, the incorporation of the first range controller 118 in the apparatus 100 can help in optimizing the biomechanics by preventing over-rotation that can lead to strain or injury.
[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 118 can include a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis ofrotation of the leg supports 106, and a selector plate having a plurality of holes. The pivotally moving member includes a lock having a retractable pin configured to lock the pivotally moving member in different angular positions by engaging with a selected hole among the plurality holes of the selector plate. The angularly moving part includes a stopper (not shown), which is located in the same plane as the pivotally moving member such that, during the rotation of the leg supports 106, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the leg supports 106 beyond the selected position.
[0038] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second range controller 120 configured to limit range of movement (i.e. left and right side movement) of the handle bars 110 during the transverse twist movement. By limiting the range of movement of the handle bars 110, the second range controller 120 can help in maintaining proper form, preventing excessive twisting that could lead to strain or injury while still allowing the user to effectively engage the core and upper body muscles. In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 120 is constructed in a manner similar to the first range controller 118, utilizing the same components.
[0039] Further, apparatus 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack 114 to adjust resistance while performing the external femur rotation exercise. The apparatus 100 can further include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack 116 to adjust resistance while performing the transverse twist exercise. Each of the third and fourth range controllers can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the weight stack 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 weight stack such that when the weight stack is lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the weight stack is restricted by the blocking member.
[0040] To begin the external femur rotation, the user can sit in an upright position with their legs securely placed in the leg supports 106, where their shins / tibias comfortably held in place by the tibias pads 108. The user then initiates the movement by rotating their legs outward at the hip joint, engaging the muscles responsible for external rotation, such as the piriformis, obturator intemus, and gluteus maximus. This rotation causes the knees and toes to move laterally, promoting the natural outward rotation of the femur. The apparatus 100 can be equipped with the first range controller 118 to allow the user to adjust the degree of rotation, ensuring the movement stays within a safe and controlled range to prevent over-extension or strain on the joint. Additionally, the user’s core muscles can be engaged to maintain properposture, further enhancing core stability. The controlled rotation can also strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, improving overall lower body strength and coordination. As the user performs the exercise, both hip flexibility and the ability to control and stabilize the lower body are enhanced, making it beneficial for athletes and individuals who require rotational movement in their daily activities or sports performance.
[0041] To perform the transverse twist exercise, the user can grasp the handle bars 110 with both hands. These handle bars 110 can be positioned at a comfortable height, typically at chest or shoulder level, to allow for a full range of motion during the exercise. The user can begin by rotating their torso to one side, using their arms and upper body to twist the handle bars 110 in the desired direction. The handlebars can be designed to rotate smoothly as the user twists, allowing the upper body to follow the movement while keeping the lower body stable. The user can continue the motion by rotating the handlebars further to the opposite side, engaging the core muscles such as the obliques and rectus abdominis to control the twist and enhance stability. The transverse twist movement can work to improve spinal mobility, core strength, and torso rotation, which are crucial for functional strength and balance. The apparatus 100 can feature the second range controller 120 to limit the side-to-side motion of the handle bars 110, ensuring that the user performs the twist within a safe and controlled range. The exercise can help activate both the upper body and core, improving coordination, balance, and overall rotational strength.
[0042] In an implementation, the external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises are performed simultaneously by the user sitting in the upright seating position with their legs securely placed in the leg supports 106 and held in place by the tibias pads 108. As the user initiates the external femur rotation movement, the user can rotate their femur outward at the hip joint, engaging the hip external rotators, while simultaneously grasping the rotatable handle bars 110 and using their upper body to perform the transverse twist by rotating their torso and twisting the handle bars 110 from side to side. The leg supports 106 and tibias pads 108 can stabilize the lower body, allowing for smooth and controlled rotation at the hips, while the handle bars 110 can allow for independent upper body rotation. This dual movement can engage both the core and lower body muscles, improving hip mobility joint stability, spinal mobility, core strength, and functional coordination. In addition, the range controllers can ensure that both the leg rotation and upper body twist occur within a safe, controlled range, providing a full-body workout that enhances both strength and flexibility in a single motion.
[0043] Thus, the apparatus 100 enables users to perform both external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises with enhanced effectiveness by combining two crucial movementsinto one coordinated action. The design of the apparatus 100 ensures that the lower body is securely stabilized through the leg supports 106 and tibias pads 108, allowing the user to focus on the rotation of the femur while simultaneously engaging the upper body through the rotatable handle bars 110. This dual -action movement promotes improved hip mobility, spinal flexibility, core strength, and joint stability. The apparatus 100 is specifically designed to safely and effectively tone and strengthen the core, lower body, and upper body muscles, enhancing overall functional strength and coordination.
[0044] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed 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.
[0045] 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 apparatus (100) for facilitating external femur rotation and transverse twist exercises, the apparatus (100) comprising:a. a base support (102) with a pair of rotatable leg supports (106);b. a pair of tibias pads (108) configured at the rotatable leg supports (106);c. a vertical frame (104) coupled to the base support (102);d. a pair of handle bars (110) rotatably coupled to the vertical frame (104);e. a first weight stack (114) connected to the rotatable leg supports (106) and a second weight stack (116) connected to the handle bars (110);f. wherein the rotatable leg supports (106) and the handle bars (110) are configured to allow an external femur rotation movement and a transverse twist movement to be performed as one integrated movement; andg. wherein the first weight stack (114) and the second weight stack (116) allow for adjustable resistance.
2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the rotatable leg supports (106) are configured to accommodate legs of a user in an upright seating position.
3. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the tibias pads (108) are configured at side surfaces of each of the rotatable leg supports (106) to ensure that lower legs are securely held in place while allowing for rotation of the hips and the femur.
4. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the handle bars (110) are coupled to the vertical frame (104) via at least one connecting bar (122).
5. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the weight stacks (114, 116) are connected via a cable-and-pulley system.
6. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (118) configured to limit angular movement of the rotatable leg supports (106) and a second range controller (120) configured to limit a range of movement of the handle bars (HO).
7. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, further comprising an adjustment mechanism on the handle bars (HO) to accommodate users of various sizes and heights.
8. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein each of the handle bars (110) comprises a set of gripping handles (112) including a vertical gripping handle (112a) and a horizontal gripping handle (112b).
9. The apparatus (100) of claim 3, wherein the tibias pads (108) are covered with cushioning materials selected from high-density foam, memory foam, gel foam, rubberized foam, Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, and Polyurethane Foam.