Exercise machine to facilitate crunch and thoracic rotation exercises

Abstract

An exercise machine designed to facilitate both thoracic rotation and crunch exercises comprises a base platform, a seat mounted on a vertical column, and a lumbar support pad that can be adjusted to fit different body sizes for optimal alignment. The lumbar support pad, coupled with a rotating vertical rod, allows for thoracic rotation exercises targeting the core muscles. A backrest is configured to rotate when the user engages their abdominal muscles for crunch exercises. The machine includes adjustable weight stacks and range controllers to customize resistance and control the rotational motion for both the lumbar support pad and backrest. Additionally, the machine includes a footrest with an anti-slip layer for stability. The machine enables users to perform effective, customizable workouts targeting the core and abdominal muscles with proper alignment and controlled resistance.

Description

EXERCISE MACHINE TO FACILITATE CRUNCH AND THORACIC ROTATION EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to fitness equipment, more specifically to an exercise machine that enables users to simultaneously engage in crunch and thoracic rotation movements, thus enhancing workout efficiency and targeting key muscle groups of the upper body and the core. These exercises are essential for strengthening the abdominal muscles, improving core stability, and enhancing spinal mobility, particularly in the thoracic region. BACKGROUND

[0002] The importance of core strength and thoracic mobility cannot be overstated in promoting overall health, functional movement, and athletic performance. Core strength, which involves the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and obliques, is essential for stability, posture, and injury prevention. Likewise, thoracic rotation, which refers to the twisting motion of the upper spine, plays a critical role in activities that require upper body movement, such as sports (e.g., tennis, golf, baseball) and daily tasks that involve rotation and reaching motions.

[0003] Traditional methods of performing crunches and thoracic rotation exercises typically rely on free weights, bodyweight exercises, or various gym equipment. While these methods can effectively target the core, they often lack the necessary support, guidance, and control for users to perform the movements correctly and safely. For instance, free-weight exercises require significant body control and stability, which may be challenging for beginners or individuals in rehabilitation. Moreover, without proper form and alignment, users risk improper spinal positioning, leading to discomfort, ineffective workouts, or injury. Additionally, many existing exercise machines and equipment designed for core strengthening focus primarily on abdominal flexion (e.g., crunches) and fail to incorporate the dynamic rotation of the thoracic spine. Machines that target thoracic rotation alone are typically limited in their functionality and do not combine it with other core-strengthening exercises such as crunches, limiting the overall effectiveness of the workout.

[0004] Conventional machines and equipment also often fail to provide adequate control or resistance for thoracic rotation exercises. While certain machines do facilitate spinal flexion or assist with abdominal crunches, they do not offer the same range of controlled rotational movement that engages the upper back, obliques, and lower body simultaneously. This lack of integrated movement limits the machine’s potential to enhance functional rotation andmobility, which are crucial for improving athletic performance and preventing musculoskeletal imbalances.SUMMARY

[0005] There is, therefore, a significant need for a reliable solution that can facilitate both crunch and thoracic rotation exercises in a single apparatus. Such a machine should provide support for the user’s back, encourage proper spinal alignment, and allow for dynamic, controlled thoracic rotation. Additionally, such a solution should enable users to effectively engage their core muscles while maintaining safety and comfort. The present invention addresses these needs by providing an exercise machine that combines the benefits of both abdominal crunches and thoracic rotation in a controlled, efficient, and safe manner. The exercise machine would allow users of all fitness levels, including those undergoing rehabilitation, to perform these critical exercises with optimal form and reduced risk of injury.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that facilitates both crunch and thoracic rotation exercises.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to combine the benefits of abdominal crunch exercises and thoracic rotation movements into a single machine, allowing users to engage multiple muscle groups effectively in one integrated workout.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to strengthen the core, including the abdominals, obliques, and lower back, while simultaneously improving thoracic mobility, which is crucial for overall functional movement and athletic performance.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that supports proper spinal alignment, preventing improper posture or movements that could lead to injury during crunch and thoracic rotation exercises.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a safe and controlled mechanism for users to perform thoracic rotation exercises, ensuring the upper spine moves effectively while minimizing the risk of overextension or discomfort.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to be adaptable to users of different body sizes, strengths, and abilities, making it suitable for individuals from beginners to advanced athletes, as well as those undergoing rehabilitation.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by providing support and control during both crunch and thoracic rotation exercises, minimizes the risk of injury due to improper form or excessive strain on the spine and core muscles.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to streamline workouts by integrating both crunch and thoracic rotation functions into one piece of equipment, offering a comprehensive solution for users looking to improve core strength and upper body mobility.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by promoting thoracic rotation and core engagement simultaneously, enhances natural movement patterns that are necessary for sports and everyday activities, such as twisting, reaching, and lifting.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that can be used in rehabilitation settings: The exercise machine incorporates adjustable settings and controlled movements, which make it suitable for use by individuals in physical therapy or rehabilitation, offering a safe and effective way to regain core strength and thoracic mobility.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise equipment that enables users to perform full-body strengthening exercises with improved effectiveness and muscle engagement.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that offers significant improvements over conventional crunch machines by enhancing biomechanics and promoting a more balanced full -body workout.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to integrate both thoracic rotation and crunch movements, promoting more comprehensive and balanced development of the upper body and the core.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by engaging both the upper body and core muscles, allows users to target a wider range of muscle groups while maintaining proper alignment and movement patterns.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine configured to integrate thoracic rotation and crunch exercises in such a way that promotes natural spine movement during both these exercises.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that enables users to perform combined thoracic rotation movements with simultaneous crunch motion, offering superior biomechanical benefits compared to conventional machine-based crunch devices.

[0022] A further object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine designed to mimic natural movements and functional patterns of the human body, enhancing both athletic performance and daily movement efficiency.

[0023] 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.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that optimizes muscle engagement across the upper body and the core, helping users achieve a balanced workout while minimizing the risk of improper form and injury.

[0025] Another obj ect of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that allows users to perform thoracic rotation exercises combined with crunch movements, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This combination targets not only the abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, and transverse abdominis, but also the core muscles, including the multifidus, rotatores (breves and longi), and external and internal oblique muscles, along with supporting muscles like the erector spinae and trapezius, which are responsible for spine rotation.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that promotes independent adjustments for both the thoracic rotation exercise and the crunch movement, enabling users to modify the intensity of each exercise based on their fitness level and training goals.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise machine that, by integrating thoracic rotation and crunch movements, promotes functional fitness, improving spinal 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 pulling, pushing, bending, rotation, such as in sports like cricket, tennis, basketball, swimming, etc., as well as in real-life activities.

[0028] Still 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 thoracic rotation and crunch movements, the exercise machine offers a comprehensive solution for users looking to improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness in a safe, controlled manner.

[0029] Yet 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.

[0030] The present invention introduces an exercise machine designed to facilitate both thoracic rotation and crunch exercises while ensuring proper form and alignment. Featuringadjustable settings, the machine accommodates users of various sizes and fitness levels, offering versatility and ease of use. It is specifically designed to minimize the risk of improper form or injury, which is often associated with free weights or less specialized equipment. By integrating both crunch and thoracic rotation exercises into a single apparatus, this exercise machine overcomes the limitations of current workout techniques, providing enhanced results for users looking to improve their overall health. As such, it plays a vital role in physical therapy and supports broader fitness goals by enabling safe, effective training.

[0031] The exercise machine allows users to perform crunch exercises combined with thoracic rotation movements, offering an innovative approach to full-body strength training. This combination optimizes biomechanics and functional movement by engaging multiple muscle groups across the upper body and core. The crunch exercises target key abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, and transverse abdominis, while the thoracic rotation movements activate core muscles such as the multifidus, rotatores, external and internal obliques, erector spinae, and trapezius.

[0032] In one aspect, the present invention pertains to an exercise machine designed to facilitate both thoracic rotation and crunch exercises. The exercise machine includes a base platform and a seat mounted on a vertical column over the base platform to support the user in a seated position. The exercise machine also includes a lumbar support pad to facilitate thoracic rotation exercises. The seat and the lumbar support pad may be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to fit different body sizes and ensure proper alignment during exercises.

[0033] In some embodiments, the lumbar support pad may be coupled to a vertical rod behind the seat and may be adapted to slide between different lockable positions. The lumbar support pad may have a concave shape to support the user’s lower back. The vertical rod is configured to rotate, allowing the lumbar support pad to move when the user pushes it with their core muscles, helping to perform thoracic rotation exercises that target the core muscles.

[0034] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a first weight stack that allows the user to adjust resistance for the lumbar support pad’s rotation during the thoracic rotation exercise, tailoring the resistance to the user’s fitness level.

[0035] In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a first range controller that limits how far the lumbar support pad can rotate, ensuring safety and comfort. The first range controller allows the user to fine-tune the rotational motion of the lumbar support pad to prevent excessive strain and accommodate different flexibility levels.

[0036] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a backrest at the top of the vertical rod that rotates when the user performs a crunch movement. The backrest may becushioned for comfort and equipped with a set of handles to provide stability during the exercise. The backrest may be configured to move rotatably only when the user engages their abdominal muscles, allowing for crunch exercises that target the abdominal muscles.

[0037] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a second weight stack configured to adjust the resistance for the rotational movement of the backrest during the crunch exercise, allowing users to set the resistance according to their fitness level.

[0038] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a second range controller that limits the rotary motion of the backrest, ensuring that it does not rotate too far and that the user’s movement stays safe and controlled.

[0039] In some embodiments, the exercise machine may include a footrest to support the user’s feet during the exercises. The footrest may be equipped with an anti-slip layer to prevent slipping and may be inclined for better positioning during the exercises.

[0040] 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

[0041] 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.

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of an exercise machine for facilitating crunch exercises integrated with thoracic rotation movements, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIGs. 2 and 3 show an exemplary front view and an exemplary plan view of the exercise machine, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIGs. 4 to 7 illustrate other exemplary views of the exercise machine in accordance with additional embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] 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.

[0046] Embodiments described herein relate to an exercise machine designed to significantly enhance biomechanics by engaging a broader range of muscle groups simultaneously. Unlike conventional machines that isolate specific muscle groups, the exercise machine of the present invention promotes functional strength by encouraging the coordination of multiple muscle systems at once. Specifically, the exercise machine focuses on core stabilization, upper body mobility, and joint stability, all while mimicking natural, real -world movement patterns such as pulling, rotating, and stabilizing the torso. When performing exercises on the exercise machine, users engage their core muscles, such as the abdominals, obliques, and lower back, along with their upper body muscles, including the lats, rhomboids, and trapezius. This integrated activation fosters a more holistic approach to strengthening, where muscles work in tandem to provide stability, strength, and movement fluidity. The exercise machine’s design mimics functional actions like pulling and rotating, which are critical for real-life tasks and athletic movements, such as lifting, twisting, or swinging. This simultaneous engagement of multiple muscle groups promotes better coordination between the upper and lower body, enhancing overall movement efficiency. Compared to isolated exercises like the traditional crunch, which primarily targets the abdominal muscles, or solely focused thoracic rotation exercises, the exercise machine of the present invention offers a more comprehensive workout. By incorporating both dynamic motion and stabilization, the exercise machine improves the user’s ability to move more efficiently and with greater control. This leads to improved functional strength, better posture, enhanced joint stability, and reduced risk of injury, ultimately making the user more proficient in both everyday activities and athletic endeavors.

[0047] FIG. 1 presents an exemplary perspective view of an exercise machine 100 designed to facilitate crunch exercises integrated with thoracic rotation movements. FIGs. 2 and 3 provide an exemplary front view and plan view of the exercise machine 100, respectively. The exercise machine 100 may include a base platform 102, which is designed to rest securely on a ground surface, ensuring stability during use. The base platform 102 may be constructed from materials such as metal, alloy, or fiber-reinforced composites, offering a durable and sturdy foundation to support the entire structure of the machine 100.

[0048] The apparatus 100 includes a seat 104 mounted on a vertical column 106 erected over the base platform 102, to support a user in a seated posture to perform dynamic exercises. The seat 104 may be equipped with a lumbar support pad 108 that supports the lumbar spine of the user in the seated posture. The seat 104 as well as the lumbar support pad 108 may be cushioned to improve safety and comfort. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104 and thelumbar support pad 108 may be fully adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions relative to the vertical column 106 to accommodate users of different body sizes and ensure optimal alignment during exercises.

[0049] The lumbar support pad 108 may be installed at a vertical rod or bar 110 positioned at the rear of the seat 104, such that the lumbar support pad 108 is slidably movable along the vertical rod 110 between a plurality of lockable positions. The lumbar support pad 108 may include a concave-shaped cavity to accommodate the user’s lumbar spine while the user is seated over the seat 104. The vertical rod 110 may be adapted to rotate about a vertical pivot axis A- A relative to the base platform 102, as shown in FIG. 1, to allow the lumbar support pad 108 to rotate about the vertical pivot axis A-A when the user, in the seated posture, exerts a pushing load to the lumbar support pad 108 by engaging their core muscles, thereby facilitating thoracic rotation exercises. The lumbar support pad 108 may be configured to remain in a fixed starting position and move away from the starting position only when the user pushes the lumbar support pad 108 to rotate their upper body in a lateral direction. When pushed to rotate, the lumbar support pad 108 allows the user to perform the thoracic rotation exercise that primarily targets muscles of the core, including the multifidus, rotatores, external and internal obliques, erector spinae, and trapezius, thereby facilitating thoracic rotation exercises. The lumbar support pad 108 may be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal directions to accommodate users of various body sizes and ensure optimal positioning during exercises.

[0050] The apparatus 100 may include a first weight stack 112 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the rotational movement of the lumbar support pad 108 about the vertical pivot axis A-A from its starting position. The first weight stack 112 enables users to tailor the resistance to their individual fitness levels, providing a personalized workout experience. The user can select a specific weight to adjust the resistance encountered by the lumbar support pad 108 during the thoracic rotation exercise.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the first weight stack 112 may be connected to the lumbar support pad 108 via a cable and pulley mechanism. The first weight stack 112 ensures that the lumbar support pad 108 moves from its starting position only when the user, in the seated posture, rotates the lumbar support pad 108 in the lateral direction to perform the thoracic rotation exercise. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the lumbar support pad 108 returns to its starting position, providing a smooth and controlled workout experience.

[0052] The exercise machine 100 may also include a first range controller 121 that governs the range of motion of the lumbar support pad 108 about the vertical pivot axis A-A. The first range controller 121 restricts the movement of the lumbar support pad 108, ensuring that itdoes not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit. This helps minimize the risk of injury and allows users to fine-tune the range of motion based on their preferences. The first range controller 121 is essential for preventing excessive movement, which could cause discomfort or strain. By offering precise control over the range of motion of the lumbar support pad 108, it 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 first range controller 121 may include a set of blocking tracks with a blocking member placed over them. The blocking member contains a track mounted on a support frame, guiding the rotational movement of the lumbar support pad 108 along its predefined path. The blocking member may feature slots that define and limit the range of motion of the lumbar support pad 108 along its predefined path. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved along the track and securely fixed in place by engaging one of these slots. As the user completes one range of motion during the crunch exercise, the first range controller 121 prevents the lumbar support pad 108 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement.

[0054] The machine 100 may include at least one backrest 114 rotatably configured at the top of the vertical rod 110 to hingedly rotate about a horizontal pivot axis B-B when the user present in the seated posture performs a crunch motion of rotating their upper body relative to their torso against the backrest 114, as clearly depicted in FIG. 1. The backrest 114 may be equipped with a cushioning layer to improve comfort and safety of the crunch exercise. The backrest 114 may include a set of handles 116 at lateral ends thereof, to allow the user to grip each of the handles 116 using their hands, during the crunch exercise, to improve safety and stability. Each of the handles 116 may include a gripping portion equipped with an anti-slip layer to prevent slippage during the crunch exercise.

[0055] The backrest 114 may be rotatably configured at the top of the vertical rod 110 between a plurality of lockable positions. The backrest 114 may be adapted to rotate about a horizontal pivot axis B-B relative to the vertical rod 110 when the user, in the seated posture, exerts a pushing load to the backrest 114 by engaging their abdominal muscles, thereby facilitating crunch exercises. The backrest 114 may be configured to remain in a fixed starting position and move away from the starting position only when the user pushes the backrest 114 to rotate their upper body in the rearward direction. When pushed to rotate, the backrest 114 allows the user to perform the crunch exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, and transverse abdominis, thereby facilitating crunch exercises. The backrest 114 may be adjustablein both vertical and horizontal directions to accommodate users of various body sizes and ensure optimal positioning during exercises.

[0056] The exercise machine 100 may include a second weight stack 118 that allows the user to adjust the resistance for the rotational movement of the backrest 114 about the horizontal pivot axis B-B. The second weight stack 118 enables users to tailor the resistance to their fitness levels, providing a personalized workout. The second weight stack 118 may be connected to the backrest 114 through a cable and pulley mechanism, ensuring that the backrest 114 hingedly rotated about the horizontal pivot axis B-B only when the user pushes the backrest 114 to perform the crunch exercise. When the pushing load is no longer applied, the backrest 114 returns to its starting position, allowing the user to repeat the crunch exercise with smooth, controlled motion.

[0057] The machine 100 may also include a second range controller 121 that governs the range of rotary motion of the backrest 114 about the horizontal pivot axis B-B. The second range controller 121 restricts the movement of the backrest 114, ensuring it does not move beyond a safe and comfortable limit, minimizing the risk of injury. The second range controller 121 allows users to fine-tune the range of rotary motion of the backrest 114 based on their preferences, making the exercise safe and effective for users with varying flexibility levels, including those recovering from injuries.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the second range controller 121 may include one or more blocking tracks with a blocking member placed over them. This blocking member contains a track mounted on a support frame that guides the rotational movement of the backrest 114 about the horizontal pivot axis B-B. The blocking member may feature slots that limit the range of motion of the backrest 114. A locking bar, slidably attached to the track, can be moved along the track and securely fixed in place by engaging one of the slots. As the user completes the crunch exercise, the second range controller 121 prevents the backrest 114 from moving beyond the set limit, ensuring safe and controlled movement throughout the exercise.

[0059] The first and second weight stacks 112 and 118 provide resistance to the movement of the lumbar support pad 108 and the backrest 114, respectively. This resistance mechanism allows the user to smoothly transition between the thoracic rotation and the crunch movements, ensuring a seamless shift therebetween. By facilitating a smooth transition between these exercises, the machine 100 minimizes the risk of joint strain, promoting a safer and more effective workout. The first and second weight stacks 112 and 118 are configured to maintain consistent resistance throughout both the exercises, while preventing sudden changes in force that could cause discomfort or injury.

[0060] The machine 100 may also include at least one footrest 120 adapted to support the user’s feet in the seated posture. The footrest 120 may be equipped with an anti-skid layer to prevent slippage of the user’s feet during the exercises. The footrest 120 may be inclined relative to the horizontal direction to facilitate the user, in the seated posture, to efficiently perform the crunch and thoracic rotation exercises. The footrest 120 may be adapted such that an inclination angle thereof relative to the horizontal direction is easily customizable by the user.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the thoracic rotation exercise and transition to the crunch movement after completing one full range of motion of the thoracic rotation exercise. To perform the integrated workout, the user can first adjust the seat 104, the lumbar support pad 108, the backrest 114 and the footrest 120 to their desired starting positions. The user can also use the first and second range controllers 121 and 122 to limit the range of rotary motion of the lumbar support pad 108 and the backrest 114, respectively. After selecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks 112 and 118, the user can engage in the thoracic rotation exercise by activating their core muscles, such as the multifidus, rotatores, external and internal obliques, erector spinae, and trapezius, to push the lumbar support pad 108 away from its starting position. Once a full range of motion of the thoracic rotation exercise is completed, i.e., when the lumbar support pad 108 is pushed by the user to the maximum extent defined by the first range controller 121 and then moved back to its starting position, the user can transition into the crunch movement by rotatably pushing the backrest 114 about the horizontal pivot axis B-B. This integration of the thoracic rotation and crunch movements improves overall stability and support of the upper body and the spine. This integrated workout also effectively activates the core muscles and introduces a slight spinal extension resulting in activation of stabilizing muscles, including the erector spinae, thereby improving the effectiveness of the workout. The integration of the crunch movement with the thoracic rotation motion also improves biomechanics, and promotes natural spine movement during both the exercises, thereby improving overall health and stability of the user’s body.

[0062] In another exemplary embodiment, the user can begin the integrated workout with the crunch exercise and transition to the thoracic rotation exercise after completing one full range of motion of the crunch exercise. To perform this workout, the user can, after selecting the appropriate resistance levels from the first and second weight stacks 112 and 118, engage in the crunch exercise by activating their abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, and transverse abdominis, to move the backrest 114 away fromits starting position. Once a full range of motion of the crunch exercises is completed, i.e., when the backrest 114 is moved to the maximum extent defined by the second range controller 122 and then released to its starting position, the user can transition into the thoracic rotation exercise by selectively activating their core muscles and exerting the pushing load to the lumbar support pad 108 to result in its rotation about the vertical pivot axis A- A. Thus, the integration of the crunch movement with the thoracic rotation motion improves biomechanics, promotes natural movement during both exercises, and enhances overall health and spinal stability for the user. The simultaneous activation of the upper body and stabilizing muscles fosters improved coordination and control, making the integrated workout more efficient and offering a more comprehensive approach to muscle activation and movement awareness. Thus, the combination of crunch and thoracic rotation movements in a single apparatus enhances both the functionality and versatility of the workout, promoting better overall physical health and performance.

[0063] The machine 100 features adjustable seat 104, lumbar support pad 108, backrest 114 and footrest 120 to cater to individual differences in anatomy and biomechanics of different users. This adjustability ensures that the users can modify positions of the seat 104, the lumbar support pad 108, the backrest 114 and the footrest 120 to align with their unique joint mechanics, optimizing comfort and minimizing the risk of strain or injury. By allowing for these adjustments, the machine 100 accommodates a diverse range of body types and movement styles, ensuring that each user can perform the exercises with proper form and efficiency. The weight stacks 112 and 118 of the machine 100 are also designed to provide resistance that transitions smoothly between the thoracic rotation and crunch exercises. This fluid transition minimizes the potential for joint strain during the switch from one movement to the other. Unlike conventional exercise equipment where abrupt changes in resistance can place undue stress on joints, the machine 100 ensures that the users experience a seamless transition in the resistance for movement of the lumbar support pad 108 and the backrest 114, maintaining a safe and effective workout throughout. Additionally, the machine 100 allows for natural spine movement during both the integrated workout. The ability to move the upper body freely relative to the torso is critical for optimal hip function and muscle activation. By enabling the upper body and the spine to move in a natural, fluid manner during both thoracic rotation and crunch motions, the machine 100 reduces the likelihood of improper posture and restricted spinal movement, which can lead to muscle imbalances or joint discomfort over time. Thus, the machine 100 not only enhances the effectiveness of the crunch exercise but alsoimproves overall health, contributing to better performance in both strength training and daily activities.

[0064] Thus, the exercise machine 100 enables users to perform crunch exercises and thoracic rotation exercises in a controlled, functional manner. This dual action promotes optimal activation of multiple muscles of the upper body and the core, offering superior biomechanical benefits compared to traditional crunch machines. The exercise machine’s functional movement mirrors real-life activities and athletic motions, improving overall performance in sports and day-to-day tasks. By simultaneously engaging multiple muscles of the upper body and the core, the exercise machine 100 enhances stability, spinal support, and balance. These benefits are particularly valuable for athletes, individuals undergoing rehabilitation, and those seeking to improve their functional movement efficiency.

[0065] 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) comprising:a. a base platform (102);b. a seat (104) supported by the base platform (102);c. a vertical rod (110) configured to rotate about a vertical pivot axis A-A;d. a lumbar support pad (108) coupled to the vertical rod (110);e. a backrest (114) rotatably coupled to the vertical rod (110) and configured to rotate about a horizontal pivot axis B-B;f. a first weight stack (112) operatively connected to the lumbar support pad (108); and g. a second weight stack (118) operatively connected to the backrest (114).

2. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is mounted on a vertical column (106) over the base platform (102).

3. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the vertical rod (110) is positioned behind the seat (104).

4. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a first range controller (121) configured to limit the rotational motion about the vertical pivot axis A-A.

5. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a second range controller (122) configured to limit the rotary motion about the horizontal pivot axis B-B.

6. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the first weight stack (112) and the second weight stack (118) provide separate resistance for thoracic rotation and crunch movements, respectively.

7. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the lumbar support pad (108) comprises a concave-shaped cavity.

8. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the backrest (114) includes a set of handles (116) at lateral ends thereof.

9. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, further comprising a footrest (120) having an antislip layer.

10. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) and the lumbar support pad (108) are adjustable to accommodate users of various sizes.

11. The exercise machine (100) of claim 1, wherein the lumbar support pad (108) is slidably movable along the vertical rod (110).

12. The exercise machine (100) of claim 4 and 5, wherein the range controllers (121) and (122) are configured to allow an integrated movement of thoracic rotation and crunch.

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