Exercise machine to facilitate spine flexion and knee extension exercises

Abstract

An exercise machine that enables users to perform spine flexion and knee extension exercises, is equipped with a base support that securely rests on a flat surface. A seat is mounted on the base support, which supports a user in a seated position. A padded roller is positioned in front of the seat to allow the user to place ankles under the leg pad while seated. A backrest is configured with the seat to support the back of the user while in the seated position during the exercise. A pair of handles coupled to the backrest such that when the user grips the handles to begin to flex forward at the waist, allowing the handles to move forward with the backrest, guiding the torso into a controlled spine flexion.

Description

EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE SPINE FLEXION AND KNEE EXTENSION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to fitness equipment, and more specifically, to an exercise machine designed to facilitate spine flexion and knee extension exercises. This integration provides a more functional and natural movement patterns, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously, such as the quadriceps, core muscles, and hip flexors.BACKGROUND

[0002] The field of exercise equipment includes machines designed to isolate and target specific muscle groups to improve strength, mobility, and functional fitness. These machines are commonly used in both rehabilitation and strength training settings to help individuals build muscle, increase flexibility, and improve overall physical performance. Conventional leg extension machines are widely used in strength training to isolate and engage the quadriceps muscles by allowing users to extend their knees against resistance. While these machines are effective for isolating the quadriceps, they are limited by their fixed movement paths and do not adequately simulate natural, multi -joint movements that occur in functional activities. This drawback can reduce the practical application of such machines in enhancing overall lower-limb strength and functional mobility.

[0003] Traditional leg extension machines typically feature a fixed 90-degree angle between the seat and backrest, which, although providing comfort, does not take into account the natural range of motion or joint alignment of the user. Furthermore, the restricted movement path, where the user extends their knee while seated, may not fully engage other muscle groups or promote coordinated movement patterns. This isolation can lead to inefficient muscle recruitment, limiting the machine's utility in mimicking real-world activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing up.

[0004] In addition, the fixed movement paths may create unnatural stress on the knee joint, especially if the user’s knee alignment is not optimized, potentially leading to discomfort or injury. When the machine’ s alignment is not customized for the individual user, it may increase the risk of strain on the knee joint, limiting the machine's overall effectiveness and safety. SUMMARY

[0005] In light of the aforesaid deficiencies of the existing exercise machines, the present invention provides an exercise machine designed to facilitate the simultaneous performance of spine flexion and knee extension exercises that not only target the quadriceps but also engagesmultiple muscle groups to simulate more natural, multi-joint movements. This exercise machine integrates lower-limb and core activation, improving overall biomechanical function and making the exercise machine more versatile in enhancing functional activities such as standing up, climbing stairs, and other daily motions that require coordinated movement patterns.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that allows users to perform spine flexion simultaneously with knee extension exercises, to engage both the core and lower body muscles concurrently, improving muscle coordination and strength across multiple muscle groups.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that aims to simulate natural body movements, such as bending, lifting, and sitting down that require coordinated engagement of both the core and lower limbs.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that focuses on multiple muscle groups, specifically the quadriceps, core, hip flexors, and lower back muscles at the same time, thereby promoting a more comprehensive workout that improves functional strength and endurance.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that accommodates a wide range of users, with varying body types, fitness levels, and mobility needs, ensuring proper positioning and muscle engagement during exercise. 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.

[0010] Another obj ect of the present invention is to design the exercise machine that allows for gradual progression, making it suitable for individuals recovering from injury as well as athletes or fitness enthusiasts looking to enhance their overall performance.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables independent adjustments for both the knee and spine flexion exercises. This allows users to modify the intensity of each exercise to suit their fitness level and specific training goals, providing a customizable experience.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to offer an exercise machine that focuses on biomechanically correct movements and proper joint alignment, thereby the machine reducing unnecessary strain on the knee and spine, helping users strengthen these areas without compromising joint health.

[0013] The present invention provides an exercise machine designed to support exercises involving both spine flexion and knee 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.

[0014] The exercise machine includes a base support 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 can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to accommodate users of different sizes and ensure that users may maintain proper form during their workout. This flexibility ensures that users may find an optimal seated position for performing exercises. The exercise machine also includes a padded roller positioned in front of the seat and adapted for users to place ankles under the padded roller while seated. To perform the knee extension exercise, the user begins slowly straightening his legs, focusing on contracting the quadriceps without locking the knees at top. Thereafter, the user holds the extended position for a few seconds, then gradually lower the legs to their initial position.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack that provides adjustable resistance for the movement of the padded roller. The first weight stack may allow users to modify the difficulty of the knee extension exercise based on their fitness level, ensuring a more personalized workout. The first weight stack may be connected to the padded roller such that the padded roller only moves when the user actively pushes them using force applied by the legs, thereby providing more control during the knee extension exercise. Once the user releases the force, the padded roller may return to its initial position.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first range controller that limits angular movement of the padded roller during the knee extension exercise. The first range controller helps ensure the padded roller does 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 angular movement of the padded roller, the first range controller also helps reduce the risk of strain during the knee extension exercise and ensures that the knees are not forced into hyperextension. Further, the first range controller may facilitate adjustment of an initial angle of the padded roller to ensure correct form and posture during the knee extension exercise.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may include a backrest connected at a rear of the seat designed to provide support for the user’s back, in the seatedposition. Further, a pair of handles (collectively referred as “handles” hereinafter) coupled to the backrest. The handles may be positioned at a height from the flat surface that allows for comfortable and ergonomic grip while performing the spine flexion exercise. The handles may be configured to move in conjunction with the backrest during the spine flexion exercise. To perform the spine flexion exercise, the user may grip the handles coupled to the backrest, and begin to flex forward at the waist, allowing the handles to move forward with the backrest, guiding the torso into a controlled spine flexion. The user may continue the spine flexion motion until the torso reaches as close to the thighs as comfortable, using the handles for support and stability. To return to a starting position, the user may slowly lift the torso back upright, engaging the abdominal muscles and controlling the movement. The handles may assist in maintaining proper posture and ensuring a smooth, balanced motion throughout the exercise.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the seat may be fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions, allowing users to position it correctly based on their body size and proportions.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may feature a second weight stack coupled to the handles in conjunction with the backrest, and configured to adjust the resistance for the spine flexion movement. As the user performs the spine flexion movement, the second weight stack may increase or decrease the resistance, offering a customizable workout that targets the core and other muscles involved in the movement. This design may allow for controlled, adjustable resistance, enhancing the effectiveness and versatility of the exercise machine.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may be equipped with a second range controller configured to limit the range of angular movement for the handles and / or the backrest during the spine flexion movement. The second range controller may allow the user to adjust and control maximum angle of spine flexion, ensuring a safe and effective workout within prescribed range of motion. By limiting the angular movement, the second range controller may help prevent overextension or excessive strain on the spine, reducing the risk of injury. This adjustable control may ensure that users may perform the exercise with optimal form and adjust the movement based on their flexibility, strength, or rehabilitation needs.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the exercise machine may include a third range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the knee extension exercise. The exercise machine may further include a fourthrange controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust resistance while performing the spine flexion exercise.

[0022] 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

[0023] 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.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an exercise machine for facilitating spine flexion exercises integrated with knee extension movements, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIGs. 2 to 5 illustrate other exemplary views of the exercise machine in accordance with additional embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] 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. Embodiments described herein refer to an exercise machine designed to allow users to perform spine flexion exercises alongside knee extension movements, offering an innovative approach to full-body strength training. By targeting both the core muscles and the lower body muscles, this exercise machine provides a comprehensive workout that engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This dual-action exercise helps activate key muscle groups such as the quadriceps, hip flexors, rectus abdominis, and lower back muscles, promoting greater coordination and functional strength.

[0027] The exercise machine described here offers significant advantages over conventional fitness equipment by combining spine flexion and knee extension movements into one device. This integration provides a more functional and natural movement patterns, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously, such as the quadriceps, core muscles, and hip flexors. Unlike traditional machines that isolate muscle groups, this machine promotes amore coordinated, multi -joint motion that mimics real-life activities, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the workout and promoting functional strength. This dual-action movement offers an efficient and comprehensive exercise that improves both lower body strength and core stability, making it a valuable tool for individuals seeking to improve their overall mobility, strength, and functional fitness.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an exercise machine 100 designed for facilitating spine flexion exercises integrated with knee extension movements. The exercise machine 100 (referred to as the “machine 100” herein) 100 is equipped with a base support 102 that securely rests on a flat surface, providing a stable foundation for the exercise machine 100. The exercise machine 100 includes a seat 104 mounted on the base support 102, which supports a user in a seated posture, ensuring ease of use during exercises. The seat 104 can 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 can be equipped with a cushioning layer that enhances comfort and promotes a more relaxed and safe workout experience. This cushioning layer can be designed to support and reduce pressure on the body of the user. Further, the cushioning layer over the seat 104 can help in distributing weight of the user evenly, minimizing discomfort in areas such as lower back and hips, allowing for better posture and form during the exercise.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104 can 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 can also be adapted to be adjustable with respect to its inclination angle relative to a horizontal axis of the machine 100, enabling the user to easily customize the seat’s angle based on their body proportions and preferences. The machine 100 also includes a padded roller 108 positioned in front of the seat 104. The padded roller 108 allows the user to place legs under the padded roller 108 while seated. To perform the knee extension exercise, the user begins slowly straightening his legs, focusing on contracting the quadriceps without locking the knees at top. Thereafter, the user holds the extended position for a few seconds, then gradually lower the legs to its initial position.

[0030] The machine 100 can include a first weight stack 112 coupled to the padded roller 108 to allow the user to adjust the resistance for the movement of the padded roller 108 from its starting position. The first weight stack 112 can enable the user to tailor the resistance to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. This allows theuser to select the appropriate weight and adjust the resistance encountered by the knee extension exercise.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the first weight stack 112 can be connected to the padded roller 108 via a cable and pulley mechanism. The first weight stack 112 can be connected to the padded roller 108 such that the padded roller 108 only moves when the user actively pushes them using force applied by the legs, thereby providing more control during the knee extension exercise. Once the user releases the force, the padded roller 108 can return to its initial position.

[0032] The machine 100 can also include a first range controller 116 configured to govern the range of angular motion of the padded roller 108 along its pre-defined path in a longitudinal direction, moving forward or backward along a main axis of the machine 100. The first range controller 116 serves to restrict the movement of the padded roller 108, 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 116 is essential for preventing excessive movement, which could cause discomfort or strain. By providing precise control over the padded roller’s 108 range of motion, the first range controller 116 enhances safety, targets specific muscle groups more effectively, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels, including those recovering from injuries.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the first range controller 116 can include a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to an axis of rotation of the padded roller 108, and a selector plate 124 having a plurality of holes 126. 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 126 of the selector plate 124. 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 padded roller 108, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the padded roller 108 beyond the selected position. In an embodiment, the exercise machine 100 can include a lever 120 coupled to the first range controller 116. The lever 120 can be configured to operate the first range controller 116 to pivotally move the pivotally moving member along the axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of the padded roller 108. The lever 120 can be operated by the user to adjust an initial angle of the padded roller 108 to ensure correct form and posture during the knee extension exercise.

[0034] In an embodiment, the exercise machine 100 also includes a backrest 106 which is configured with the seat 104 to support the user back while they are seated. The backrest 106is mounted at the rear of the seat 104, and is designed to provide support to the user’s back during the exercise. Further, a pair of handles 110 (collectively referred as “handles 110” hereinafter) can be coupled to the backrest 106. The handles 110 can be positioned at a height from the flat surface that allows for comfortable and ergonomic grip while performing the spine flexion exercise. The handles 110 can be configured to move in conjunction with the backrest 106 during the spine flexion exercise. To perform the spine flexion exercise, the user can grip the handles 110 coupled to the backrest 106, and begin to flex forward at the waist, allowing the handles 110 to move forward with the backrest 106, guiding the torso into a controlled spine flexion. The user can continue the spine flexion motion until the torso reaches as close to the thighs as comfortable, using the handles 110 for support and stability. To return to a starting position, the user can slowly lift the torso back upright, engaging the abdominal muscles and controlling the movement. The handles 110 can assist in maintaining proper posture and ensuring a smooth, balanced motion throughout the exercise.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the backrest 106 can feature an ergonomically contoured cushion pad designed to follow the natural curvature of the spine. This design helps distribute pressure evenly along the back, providing support to the lower back, mid-back, and upper back during exercises like spine flexion. The contoured shape ensures that the cushion aligns with the user’s body for maximum comfort and posture support throughout the movement. The cushion pad can be made of material selected from but not limited to high-density foam, memory foam, gel-infused foam, polyurethane foam, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, synthetic leather, and the like.

[0036] The backrest 106 can be equipped with the handles 110 which are mechanically attached to a top of the backrest 106 via a connecting member 122. These handles 110 allow the user to grip them during the exercise for added stability and control. Each handle 110 can include a gripping portion with an anti-skid coating, which helps enhance comfort and safety by providing a secure grip during use. In an embodiment, the handles 110 can be straight horizontal handles, while in some embodiments, the handles 110 can be curved handles. The handles 110 can be designed with an ergonomic contour that fits comfortably in the user’s hand. These handles 110 include a textured grip surface to enhance traction and prevent slipping during exercises. The handles 110 can be coated in high-density foam or rubber for added comfort and grip. This material provides cushioning during exercises and absorbs moisture, reducing slippage.

[0037] The machine 100 can also include a second weight stack 114 that enables the user to adjust the resistance for the angular movement of the handles 110 and / or to the movementof the backrest 106 from its starting position. The second weight stack 114 allows the user 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 114 to modify the resistance encountered by the handles 110 and / or the backrest 106 during the spine flexion movement.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the second weight stack 114 can be connected to the handles 110 mechanically coupled with the backrest 106, via a cable and pulley mechanism. This configuration allows the resistance from the second weight stack 114 to be applied directly to the handles 110, ensuring a smooth and controlled resistance during the spine flexion movement. As the user pushes the handles 110 forward, the cable and pulley system transmits the resistance from the second weight stack 114, allowing the user to adjust the intensity of the spine flexion exercise. The mechanical coupling between the handles 110 and the backrest 106 ensures that the movement of the handles 110 is synchronized with the motion of the backrest 106, providing stability and support throughout the exercise while targeting the core muscles. This setup enhances the functionality and versatility of the machine 100, enabling users to modify resistance and range of motion for a more effective and customizable workout.

[0039] The machine 100 can also feature a second range controller 118 configured to regulate the range of motion of the handles 110 and / or of the backrest 106. This second range controller 118 restricts the movement of the handles 110 and / or the backrest 106, ensuring that it does not exceed a safe and comfortable limit. The second range controller 118 is essential for minimizing the risk of injury and provides users with the ability to fine-tune the range of motion of the handles and / or the backrest 106 according to their preferences. By offering precise control over the movement of the handles 110 and / or the backrest 106, the second range controller 118 enhances safety, effectively targets specific muscle groups, and accommodates users with varying flexibility levels orthose recovering from injuries. The second weight stack 114 can be connected to the handles 110 to provide resistance for the spine flexion movement through the cable and pulley mechanism. This setup ensures that as the user performs the spine flexion exercise, the resistance from the second weight stack 114 is directly applied to the movement of the handles 110, offering a smooth and controlled challenge to the core and upper body. The connection allows the user to adjust the level of resistance for the spine flexion movement, making it customizable according to their strength and training goals. This arrangement enhances the effectiveness of the spine flexion exercise by providing targeted resistance, promoting proper form, and engaging the muscles involved in the flexion movement while minimizing strain or injury.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 118 can be constructed and configured in a manner similar to the first range controller 116, utilizing the same design principles and mechanisms to provide consistent and precise control over the range of motion for the spine flexion movement.

[0041] In an embodiment, the first and second weight stacks 112, 114 provide resistance to the movement of the padded roller 108 and of the handles 110 and / or the backrest 106, respectively. This resistance mechanism enables users to transition smoothly between the knee extension and spine flexion 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 112, 114 are designed to maintain consistent resistance throughout both exercises, preventing sudden changes in force that could cause discomfort or injury.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first and second weight stacks 112, 114 can be made from durable materials such as steel or heavy-duty plastic, without limitations. Steel offers strength and stability, while plastic or composite materials can provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant option. In some embodiment, each of the first and second weight stacks 112, 114 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.

[0043] In an embodiment, the exercise machine 100 can include a third range controller (not shown) for the first weight stack 112 to adjust resistance during the knee extension exercise. The third range controller can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the first weight stack 112 for sliding movement in a blocking member track. The blocking member track can be located parallel to a weight stack track. The blocking member can include a lock to lock the blocking member in a selected position above the weights such that when the weights is lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the weights is restricted by the blocking member. The lock for the third range controller for the first weight stack 112 can include a retractable pin provided on the blocking member. The retracted pin, when released, can engage with a selected hole among a plurality of holes provided on a frameof the first weight stack 112 to fix the blocking member, such as a selected height from the weight selector of the weights. In particular, after pulling the pin outwards, the blocking member can be slid along the blocking member track to different positions, such as at the desired distance from the weight selector of the weights, and locked in the position by releasing the pin for locking with a corresponding hole on the frame, for achieving a desired range of motion.

[0044] In an embodiment, the exercise machine 100 can include a fourth range controller (not shown) for the second weight stack 114 to control resistance provided for the spine flexion exercise. The configuration of the fourth range controller is similar to that of the third range controller, providing the user with the ability to selectively adjust the resistance applied during the spine flexion exercise.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the knee extension exercise and transition to the spine flexion movement after completing one full range of motion of the knee extension exercise. To perform the integrated workout, the user can begin with the knee extension exercise by sitting on the machine 100, positioning their legs behind the padded roller 108 placed in front of the seat 104. After ensuring proper alignment, the user extends their knees to lift the weight stack, targeting the quadriceps muscles. Once the user has completed one full range of motion for the knee extension exercise, they can seamlessly transition to the spine flexion movement. To do so, the user grips the handles 110 coupled to the backrest 106, engaging their core muscles to initiate the spine flexion. The backrest 106 and handles 110 move in unison to guide the user into a controlled forward flexion of the spine, while the second weight stack 114 adjusts the resistance for the spine flexion movement. This integrated workout allows the user to efficiently target both the lower body and core in a continuous, fluid sequence, enhancing overall strength and flexibility. By adjusting the resistance for both the knee extension and spine flexion movements, the user can tailor the workout intensity to their needs, ensuring a balanced and effective exercise routine.

[0046] In another exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the spine flexion exercise and transition to the knee extension exercise after completing one full range of motion of the spine flexion exercise. To perform this workout, the user can begin with the spine flexion exercise by sitting on the seat 104 of the machine 100, gripping the handles 110 coupled to the backrest 106, and engaging the core. The user initiates the movement by flexing forward at the waist, guided by the handles 110 and backrest 106, which move together to assist in the spine flexion. The user completes one full range of motion for the spine flexion exercise, ensuring proper posture and controlled movement to avoid strain.Once the spine flexion movement is finished, the user transitions smoothly to the knee extension exercise. To do this, the user positions their legs behind the padded roller 108 in front of the seat 104, adjusts the seat 104 for proper alignment, and extends their knees to lift the weight stack, targeting the quadriceps. This seamless transition from spine flexion to knee extension allows the user to engage multiple muscle groups in a continuous and efficient workout, targeting both the core and lower body. By adjusting the resistance for both movements, the user can personalize the intensity, ensuring a balanced, full-body workout.

[0047] The machine 100 features the adjustable seat 104, padded roller 108, and backrest 106 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 padded roller 108, and the backrest 106 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 are also designed to provide resistance that transition smoothly between the knee extension and spine flexion exercises. This fluid transition minimizes potential joint strain during the shift from one movement to the other. Unlike conventional exercise equipment, which can 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 padded roller 108, and the backrest 106, maintaining a safe and effective workout. Additionally, the machine 100 allows for natural spinal movement during both spine flexion and knee extension movements, reducing the likelihood of restricted spine movement that could lead to muscle imbalances or injury over time. Thus, the machine 100 not only enhances the effectiveness of the knee extension exercise but also contributes to better spine health, improving performance in both strength training and daily activities.

[0048] 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 spine flexion and knee extension exercises, comprisinga. a base support (102);b. a seat (104) mounted on the base support (102);c. a padded roller (108) configured for a knee extension exercise;d. a first weight stack (112) coupled to the padded roller (108) to provide resistance for the knee extension exercise;e. a backrest (106) configured to support a user’s back;f. a pair of handles (110) coupled to the backrest (106), wherein the handles (110) are configured to move in conjunction with the backrest (106) during a spine flexion exercise; and g. a second weight stack (114) coupled to the handles (110) and the backrest (106) to provide resistance for the spine flexion exercise.

2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (116) configured to govern a range of angular motion of the padded roller (108).

3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 2, wherein the first range controller (116) comprises: a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis coaxial to an axis of rotation of the padded roller (108); and a selector plate (124) having a plurality of holes (126) configured to engage with a lock of the pivotally moving member to fix the padded roller (108) in different angular positions.

4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 3, further comprising a lever (120) coupled to the first range controller (116) configured to adjust an initial angle of the padded roller (108).

5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second range controller (118) configured to regulate a range of motion of the handles (110) and the backrest (106) during the spine flexion exercise.

6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is adjustable in vertical and horizontal directions.

7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the handles (110) are mechanically attached to a top of the backrest (106) via a connecting member (122).

8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the padded roller (108) is positioned in front of the seat (104) and adapted for the user to place ankles under the padded roller (108).

9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (112) and the second weight stack (114) are connected to their respective moving components via a cable and pulley mechanism.

10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the machine (100) is configured to allow the spine flexion exercise and the knee extension exercise to be performed as one integrated movement.

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