US20050272575A1 - Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine - Google Patents
Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050272575A1 US20050272575A1 US11/082,856 US8285605A US2005272575A1 US 20050272575 A1 US20050272575 A1 US 20050272575A1 US 8285605 A US8285605 A US 8285605A US 2005272575 A1 US2005272575 A1 US 2005272575A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- arm
- exercise machine
- resisting force
- carriage
- along
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/0355—A single apparatus used for either upper or lower limbs, i.e. with a set of support elements driven either by the upper or the lower limb or limbs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/02—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters
- A63B21/055—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters extension element type
- A63B21/0552—Elastic ropes or bands
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4033—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms
- A63B21/4035—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms for operation by hand
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
- A63B21/4047—Pivoting movement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/03516—For both arms together or both legs together; Aspects related to the co-ordination between right and left side limbs of a user
- A63B23/03533—With separate means driven by each limb, i.e. performing different movements
- A63B23/03541—Moving independently from each other
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/04—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs
- A63B23/0494—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs primarily by articulating the knee joints
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
- A63B23/1245—Primarily by articulating the shoulder joint
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
- A63B23/1245—Primarily by articulating the shoulder joint
- A63B23/1272—Rotation around an axis perpendicular to the frontal body-plane of the user, i.e. moving the arms in the plane of the body, to and from the sides of the body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/00058—Mechanical means for varying the resistance
- A63B21/00069—Setting or adjusting the resistance level; Compensating for a preload prior to use, e.g. changing length of resistance or adjusting a valve
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/02—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters
- A63B21/04—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters attached to static foundation, e.g. a user
- A63B21/0407—Anchored at two end points, e.g. installed within an apparatus
- A63B21/0421—Anchored at two end points, e.g. installed within an apparatus the ends moving relatively by a pivoting arrangement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/02—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player posture
- A63B2208/0228—Sitting on the buttocks
- A63B2208/0233—Sitting on the buttocks in 90/90 position, like on a chair
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/02—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player posture
- A63B2208/0228—Sitting on the buttocks
- A63B2208/0238—Sitting on the buttocks with stretched legs, like on a bed
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
Abstract
The invention refers to an exercise machine (1) comprising: a frame (2) adapted to support the machine (1) with respect to a supporting surface (8); at least one arm (4 a , 4 b) hinged to the frame (2) and comprising, at a distal end thereof, at least one engagement element (42 a , 42 b , 43 a , 43 b) for an end of a user's limb, such an engagement element (42 a , 42 b , 43 a , 43 b) being adapted to describe a substantially curvilinear trajectory during the movement of the arm (4 a , 4 b); an applicator device (6) of a resisting force to said arm (4 a , 4 b).
The engagement element (42 a , 42 b , 43 a , 43 b) is fixed to a carriage (41 a , 41 b) slidably associated with the arm (4 a , 4 b) along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm (4 a , 4 b), and the applicator device (6) is associated with the carriage (41 a , 41 b) so as to apply a resisting force to the arm (4 a , 4 b) acting along a direction of application angularly staggered with respect to a plane locally tangent to the substantially curvilinear trajectory for at least a portion of said trajectory.
The invention also refers to a method for exercising the musculature of a user's limb that can be carried out through such an exercise machine (1).
Description
- The present invention refers to an exercise machine. In particular, the invention refers to an exercise machine suitable for strengthening the musculature of the lower or upper limbs, which has a preferred although not exclusive use for the rehabilitation of users who have suffered traumas or undergone operations to such limbs. In such events and, more generally, in the field of exercise, there is a known need to restore or increase the mass and tone of the musculature of the limbs, so as to recover their functionality as completely and quickly as possible in the case of a trauma or to increase the muscle mass and tone in the desired way.
- Generally, it is sought to satisfy this requirement through muscle rehabilitation and strengthening exercises, often carried out with the help of exercise tools or machines in order to make the rehabilitation more targeted and/or effective.
- For example, in the specific case of the lower limbs, the hypotrophy and hyposthenia of the quadriceps muscle are a constant occurrence after traumas or operations to the knee and it is necessary to counteract the loss of strength of the muscle with suitable rehabilitation exercises, so as to re-establish the correct working order of the limb involved and, therefore, the motor and walking capabilities of the patient.
- Two main types of exercises are known. A first type of exercises, generally indicated with the term: open kinetic chain exercises, provides that, during the movement, the involved limb is subjected to a resisting force and the end (hand/foot) thereof is free to move in space. In this type of exercises, each extension and bending of the limb stimulates essentially only the agonist muscles, without involving the corresponding antagonist muscles. These exercises are therefore very effective for strength recovery by the agonist muscles, since they substantially isolate the operation thereof, but may give rise to an undesired side effect, in this case related to potentially harmful stresses at the joints, above all in a rehabilitation step. A second type of exercises, generally indicated with the term: closed kinetic chain exercises, provides that, during the movement, the involved limb is subjected to a resisting force, while the end (hand/foot) thereof is unmovable or only able to move with great difficulty. In this type of exercises each extension and bending of the limb stimulates both the agonist muscles and the antagonist muscles. The combined and simultaneous operation of the two muscle groups allows a greater stability of the joints to be ensured during exercise, limiting the occurrence of the aforementioned stresses; on the other hand, the strengthening action of the agonist muscles is less effective with respect to open kinetic chain exercises.
- In the case, for example, of the lower limbs, typical open kinetic chain and closed kinetic chain exercises are, respectively, the so-called “leg extension”, which provides that the legs are alternately extended and bent under the action of a resisting force, having a direction substantially coinciding with the direction of the thrusting force of the user, thus involving the knee joint only, and the so-called “squat”, which provides that one's feet are kept on the ground and the legs are bent and extended, respectively lowering and raising the pelvis and upper trunk under the action of weights of a suitable size, thus involving the knee, hip and ankle joints together.
- The leg extension exercise substantially stimulates just the quadriceps muscle and therefore is very effective for strengthening such a muscle; however, whilst it is carried out, tangential forces develop that tend to make the tibial plate translate forwards, consequently stressing knee structures, as the anterior cruciate ligament and the medial meniscus. Considering limb rotation angles measured starting from the limb in completely extended state (corresponding to a rotation of 0°), the aforementioned forces causing forward translation of the tibia arise for leg rotation angles between 0° and 60°. For these reasons, in rehabilitation after the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction it is common practice not to use the leg extension exercise in the first weeks after the operation and in any case to avoid reaching rotation angles of between 0° and 30° even at a later stage. Therefore, this does not allow the advantages offered by such an exercise in terms of exercising the quadriceps to be exploited at an early stage.
- On the contrary, whilst doing squats the quadriceps work together with the antagonist muscles and therefore they can be strengthened to a lesser degree; however, the combined action of the two groups of muscles, together with the femural-tibial compression forces that naturally occur at the knee during this exercise thanks to the upright posture, allows a greater stability of the knee to be achieved and, therefore, the drawbacks and risks outlined in relation to open kinetic chain exercises to be reduced.
- Despite the possible undesired side effects of open kinetic chain exercises, highlighted in numerous scientific studies, this type of exercises holds a substantial importance in the functional recovery of traumatised limbs. In the case of the lower limbs, it has for example been demonstrated that a muscle recovery programme based exclusively on closed kinetic chain exercises does not allow an optimal recovery of the quadriceps strength (Mikkelsen C., Werner S., Eriksson E., Close kinetic chain alone compared to combined open and close kinetic chain exercise for quadriceps strengthening after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with respect to return to sport: a prospective matched follow-up study, Knee Surg. Sports Traumatol. Arthrosc. 2000, 8(6): 337-342).
- The technical problem underlying the present invention is therefore that of providing an exercise machine for strengthening the musculature of the lower or upper limbs, which allows an open kinetic chain exercise to be carried out with isolation of the agonist muscles involved and simultaneously allows the transversal stresses occurring at the involved joints to be minimised, so as to avoid the undesired side effects outlined above in relation to such a type of exercise.
- According to a first aspect thereof, the invention therefore refers to an exercise machine comprising:
-
- a frame adapted to support said machine with respect to a supporting surface;
- at least one arm hinged to said frame and comprising, at a distal end thereof, at least one engagement element for an end of a user's limb, said at least one engagement element being adapted to describe a substantially curvilinear trajectory during the movement of said arm;
- an applicator device of a resisting force to said arm,
which is characterised in that said at least one engagement element is fixed to a carriage slidably associated with said arm along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm, and in that said applicator device is associated with said carriage so as to apply a resisting force to the arm acting along a direction of application angularly staggered with respect to a plane locally tangent to said substantially curvilinear trajectory for at least a portion of said trajectory.
- Within the framework of the present description and of the subsequent claims, the expression: slidably associated, is used to indicate that the carriage is slidably mounted inside and/or outside said arm.
- Thanks to such a combination of features, the exercise machine of the invention allows t transversal stresses acting on the involved joint to be substantially reduced to zero by applying a resisting force to the arm that has a first non-zero component along a direction locally tangent to the trajectory followed by the arm, and a second non-zero component along a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane locally tangent to such a trajectory, i.e. along a direction passing through the centre of rotation of the arm. In the following description, such components shall be indicated with the terms: tangential component and radial component, respectively.
- The tangential component of the resisting force counteracts the thrusting force applied by the user on the engagement element like in conventional open kinetic chain exercises, whereas the radial component acts substantially along the longitudinal axis of the arm, i.e. of the limb involved in the exercise, to which it is transferred thanks to the sliding of the carriage carrying the engagement element. The resolution of the resisting force along the two aforementioned directions is not fixed, but rather varies as the angular position assumed by the arm whilst the exercise is carried out varies, since the angle formed by the resisting force with respect to the plane locally tangent to the trajectory correspondingly varies.
- The exercise machine of the invention substantially operates in the same way as an exercise machine for performing open kinetic chain exercises, for example leg extensions, thus allowing the typical advantages of such exercises to be obtained in terms of strengthening of the agonist muscles, and, at the same time, advantageously allows the undesired side effects outlined above to be avoided, thanks to the action of the radial component of the resisting force applied to the arm.
- In particular, in the case of the lower limbs the radial component shall preferably be of the centripetal type, so as to apply a compression on the limb; such a compression acts on the knee joint increasing its stability and limiting the occurrence of tangential forces causing forward translation of the tibial plate.
- Of course, the acting sense of the radial component of the resisting force applied to the arm can be of the opposite type, i.e. centrifugal, should it be desirable or advantageous to stress the joint (like for example in the case of the shoulder) by applying a traction onto it instead of a compression. The acting sense of the radial component is defined by the direction and sense of application of the resisting force to the carriage.
- Preferably, the applicator device of the resisting force comprises at least one flexible transmission element extended between the carriage and a generator of the resisting force.
- Such a transmission element, for example a belt, allows the desired resisting force to be applied to the carriage and allows the movement thereof to be easily followed whilst the exercises are carried out.
- The exercise machine of the invention preferably also comprises angular adjusting means of the direction of application of the resisting force with respect to the plane locally tangent to the curvilinear trajectory. Such adjusting means advantageously allow the direction of application of the resisting force as naturally defined by a generic angular position of the arm to be modified; this in turn determines a different resolution of the resisting force into its components locally tangential and locally radial to the curvilinear trajectory and therefore, in particular, a different intensity of the longitudinal force acting on the user's limb. This possibility is particularly useful for adapting the exercise machine operation to the requirements of different users or else, for the same user, to the different steps of an exercise or rehabilitation programme. For example, in the case of the rehabilitation of users that have suffered traumas or undergone operations to the knee joint, it is possible to use such angular adjusting means to apply a relatively high longitudinal compression force on the lower limb to increase the stability thereof during the first steps of the rehabilitation programme, in which the joint is weaker, and then gradually decrease such a force as the joint recovers functionality.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the angular adjusting means comprise at least one deviator element slidably mounted in the frame and acting on the flexible transmission element to deviate the path thereof. Such a solution advantageously constitutes a simple and easily reversible way to adjust the direction of application of the resisting force without modifying the structure of the applicator device.
- Preferably, such a deviator element is adjustably positionable along a direction substantially perpendicular to the supporting surface. This arrangement is optimal to selectively deviate the path of the flexible element in the different operating configurations it assumes during the angular movement of the arm.
- Preferably, the deviator element comprises a roller, which advantageously allows the flexible transmission element to slide on it without scraping, so as to reduce the wear thereof through time.
- In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the angular adjusting means comprise, alternatively or additionally, a fastening point of a first free end of the flexible transmission element, which is adjustably positionable on the carriage along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm. This allows a variation in the direction of application of the resisting force to be carried out by intervening on the fastening position of the transmission element to the carriage, without the need to use deviator elements along the path of the transmission element.
- In an alternative preferred embodiment, which substantially achieves the same advantages of adjusting as that just above illustrated, without, however, introducing mobile elements into the carriage, said adjusting means comprise a plurality of fastening points of the first free end of the flexible transmission element defined on the carriage and spaced apart from each other along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm.
- Preferably, such fastening points are pitchwise spaced apart, to advantageously allow a gradual adjustment.
- Preferably, the resisting force is applied to said carriage along an initial direction of application forming an angle of between about 30° and about 1300 with respect to the plane locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory.
- Within the framework of the present description and of the subsequent claims, the term: initial direction of application of the resisting force, is used to indicate the direction of the resisting force with respect to the plane locally tangent to the trajectory in an operating configuration of the exercise machine in which the arm is in its starting condition.
- More preferably, the initial direction of application of the resisting force to said carriage forms an angle of between about 75° and about 105° with respect to said plane locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory. This allows an optimal intensity of the resisting force component along the longitudinal axis of the arm to be obtained in each angular position assumed by the arm during its rotation.
- Preferably, the generator of the resisting force comprises adjusting means of the intensity of the resisting force. This feature, in the same way as the possibility of adjusting the direction of application of the resisting force, advantageously allows the operation of the exercise machine to be calibrated according to the individual users or the different steps of an exercise or rehabilitation programme.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the flexible transmission element is an elastic element and the generator of the resisting force essentially consists of the flexible transmission element. Advantageously, in such an embodiment the resisting force is generated in a simple way, exploiting elements per se present in the machine and without resorting to external energy sources. Preferably, the elastic element extends between at least one fastening point defined on the frame and the carriage and is subjected to a predetermined pre-tensioning; this allows the elastic return force of the transmission element to be advantageously exploited to generate the resisting force to be applied to the arm.
- Preferably, the generator of the resisting force comprises at least one pair of idle pulleys of the flexible transmission element, interposed between said fastening point and the carriage.
- More preferably, at least one of said idle pulleys is adjustably positionable along a direction substantially parallel to the supporting surface of the machine.
- The use of such pulleys advantageously allows the flexible transmission element to be selectively tensioned and therefore allows the intensity of the resisting force to be adjusted.
- Further preferred embodiments of the invention, which can be advantageous for specific applications, provide that the generator of resisting force comprises: a plurality of weights adapted to be selectively associated with a second end of the flexible transmission element, electrical drives, pneumatic drives, an inertial force generator, individually or in combination with each other.
- According to a second aspect thereof, the present invention refers to a method for exercising the musculature of a user's limb through an exercise machine comprising a support frame, said method comprising the steps of:
- a) engaging an engagement element, positioned at a distal end of at least one arm hinged to said support frame, through an end of the limb;
- b) making said at least one arm of the exercise machine rotate through the limb so as to make the engagement element describe a substantially curvilinear trajectory;
- c) exerting a counteraction to the rotation of said at least one arm through an applicator device of a resisting force acting on said arm during at least a part of said step b) of rotation of said at least one arm; characterised in that it comprises the further step of:
- d) translating said engagement element along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm for at least a portion of said substantially curvilinear trajectory and during at least a part of said step b) of rotation of said at least one arm.
- Advantageously, such a method allows both the agonist muscle groups of the limb to be effectively exercised, thanks to the action of the resisting force applied to the arm which the user makes rotate (as typically happens in open kinetic chain exercises), and the forces acting during exercise at the joints of the limb involved in the movement to be controlled, thanks to the action of the translation force applied along the longitudinal axis of the arm (as typically happens in closed kinetic chain exercises).
- In a preferred embodiment of such a method the at least one engagement element is fixed to a carriage slidably associated with the at least one arm and the aforementioned step d) is carried out by applying a resisting force to the carriage along a direction of application angularly staggered with respect to a plane locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory.
- Additional features and advantages of the present invention shall become clearer from the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof, made hereafter, for indicating and not limiting purposes, with reference to the attached drawings. In such drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise machine according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 1 in a first operating configuration; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 1 in a second operating configuration; -
FIG. 3 a is a schematic partial side view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 1 in the operating configuration ofFIG. 3 but in a differently adjusted condition; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 1 in a third operating configuration; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic rear elevation view of an exercise machine according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, in a first operating configuration thereof; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic rear elevation view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 5 in a second operating configuration thereof; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic rear elevation view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 5 in a third operating configuration thereof; -
FIG. 7 a is a schematic rear elevated view of the exercise machine ofFIG. 5 in the operating configuration ofFIG. 7 but in a differently adjusted condition. - In the figures, an exercise machine according to the invention is generally indicated at 1.
- In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 1-4 , suitable for exercisinglower limbs 7 of a user (not shown), theexercise machine 1 comprises aframe 2, aseat 3, a pair ofmobile arms 4 a, 4 b and anapplicator device 6 of a resisting force R. - The
frame 2, preferably made of metal, comprises a pair ofrear support legs 21 and afront support leg 22, which have, at a first end thereof, at a supportingsurface 8,support elements 23, preferably coated with anti-slip material, for example rubber. From thefront leg 22 extend two parallel section bars 24 a, 24 b each including a substantiallyhorizontal side 241 a, 241 b and a substantiallyvertical side 242 a, 242 b. Thehorizontal sides 241 a, 241 b, together with a second end of therear legs 21, define a substantially horizontal plane on which theseat 3 rests. - The
seat 3 is equipped with aseating portion 31, a back 32 and a pair of handling elements 33 (only one of which is shown inFIG. 1 ) that the user can grip whilst performing exercise. Theseat 3 preferably also comprises conventional adjusting means of the horizontal and vertical position with respect to the frame 1 (not shown in the figures), to allow different users to keep a comfortable and correct position for performing the exercise. Preferably, theseat 3 is at least partially made of natural or synthetic materials comprising, for example, wood, thermosetting polymers, such as polyurethane, and thermoplastic polymers. - The
mobile arms 4 a, 4 b are hinged to theframe 1 at a front end of theseating element 31 by means ofpin elements 5 a, 5 b.Carriages 41 a, 41 b are mounted inside themobile arms 4 a, 4 b at a distal end thereof and can slide along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arms themselves. On each carriage a pair ofengagement elements mobile arms 4 a, 4 b is mounted; theengagement elements distal end 71 of the user'slower limbs 7, specifically a foot, to perform muscle-strengthening exercises, as shown in detail inFIGS. 2-4 . In particular, theengagement elements 42 a, 42 b define a support for the sole of the foot, whereas theengagement elements distal end 71, in this case the instep, against which the user can exert a thrusting force S. Theengagement elements - The
applicator device 6 of the resisting force R comprises a pair of suitably sizedelastic bands 61 a, 61 b respectively tensioned between a first pair of fastening points 44 a, 44 b, defined on thecarriages 41 a, 41 b, and a second pair offastening points 243 a, 243 b, defined on theframe 2 at the free ends of thehorizontal sides 241 a, 241 b of the section bars 24 a, 24 b. In this embodiment of the invention theelastic bands 61 a, 61 b have both the function of generators of the resisting force R, determined by the elastic return force that occurs by tensioning them, and the function of flexible transmission elements for transmitting the resisting force R to thecarriages 41 a, 41 b. Theapplicator device 6 also comprises a pair ofidle pulleys elastic band 61 a, 61 b respectively, arranged so as to make theelastic bands 61 a, 61 b have a substantially zigzagging path. The idle pulleys 62 a and 62 b are adjustably positionable on theframe 2 at thehorizontal sides 241 a, 241 b of the section bars 24 a, 24 b, i.e. along a direction substantially parallel to the supportingsurface 8, and then fixed in the desired adjustment condition. - The idle pulleys 63 a and 63 b are fixedly mounted at the lower end of the
vertical sides 242 a, 242 b. - The
exercise machine 1 further comprises twodeviator elements 9 a, 9 b of the path of theelastic bands 61 a, 61 b, comprising two rollers slidably mounted on theframe 2 at thevertical sides 242 a, 242 b of the section bars 24 a, 24 b. Thedeviator elements 9 a, 9 b allow the direction of application of the resisting force R to thecarriages 41 a, 41 b to be adjusted as better described hereafter, with reference toFIG. 3 a. - Most of the elements forming the
applicator device 6 of the resisting force R are preferably housed inside acase 10 arranged beneath theseat 3, so as to ensure that theexercise machine 1 has the necessary active and passive safety and to give it a better overall appearance. - With reference to
FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 and, for simplicity, to just thearm 4 a, a method for exercising the muscles of the lower limbs of a user that can be carried out through the aforementioned embodiment of theexercise machine 1 shall now be described. - In a first step of the method (
FIG. 2 ) the user engages theengagement elements carriage 41 a of thearm 4 a through theend 71 of thelower limb 7. In a second step, the user exerts the thrusting force S on theengagement element 43 a and makes thearm 4 a rotate, so that each element associated with it describes a substantially curvilinear trajectory T. Thearm 4 a assumes different operating configurations, like those schematically illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 4 . - In a subsequent step, at least partially simultaneous to the step of rotating the
arm 4 a, by means of theapplicator device 6 of the resisting force R a counteraction to such a rotation is exerted. - In a further step, also at least partially simultaneous to the step of rotating the
arm 4 a and again by means of theapplicator device 6 of the resisting force R, thecarriage 41 a together with theengagement elements arm 4 a, as highlighted by thedouble arrow 13. - According to the invention, the steps of exerting a counteracting force to the rotation of the
arm 4 a and of translating thecarriage 41 a are operatively carried out by applying the resisting force R through theelastic band 61 a to thecarriage 41 a along a direction forming a non-zero angle α with respect to a plane π locally tangent to the curvilinear trajectory T. The resisting force R therefore has non-zero both a tangential component RT along a direction locally tangent to the curvilinear trajectory T and a radial component RC along a direction locally centripetal with respect to the curvilinear trajectory T. The tangential component RT essentially counteracts the thrusting force S, whereas the radial component RC translates thecarriage 41 a, advantageously exerting a compression force on thelimb 7. - Comparing the operating configurations of
FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, it can be observed that, whilst the user makes thearm 4 a rotate to perform an extension of thelimb 7, the direction of application of the force R to thecarriage 41 a with respect to the plane π locally tangent to the trajectory T, i.e. the value of the angle α, and therefore, by a geometric effect, the resolution of the resisting force R change. In particular, it should be noted that the angle α increases and therefore, having the same intensity of the resisting force R, the magnitude of the tangential component RT decreases and the magnitude of the radial component RC increases, advantageously allowing a greater compression of the limb to be obtained exactly when this effect is most desired, i.e. in the last section of the extension movement of the leg, as outlined above. - In whatever operating configuration it is possible to adjust the intensity of the resisting force R by adjusting the position of the
idle pulley 62 a, as highlighted by thedouble arrow 11, and in such a way obtaining a corresponding variation of tensioning of theelastic band 61 a. - In the operating configurations in which the
elastic band 61 a is in contact with thedeviator element 9 a (as illustrated for example inFIGS. 3 and 4 ) it is also possible to adjust the direction of application of the resisting force R by adjusting the position of thedeviator element 9 a so as to modify the path of theelastic band 61 a with respect to the path it would per se follow in each of such configurations. As illustrated for example inFIG. 3 a, displacing thedeviator element 9 a in the direction of thearrow 12 modifies the path of theelastic band 61 a and the angle of application of the resisting force decreases from α to α′. This determines a change in the resolution of the resisting force R, and therefore particularly, in the magnitude of the radial component RC longitudinally acting on the limb 7 (not shown here). - In alternative embodiments of the exercise machine, not illustrated here, additionally or alternatively to the
deviator elements 9 a, 9 b, it is provided to adjust the direction of application of the resisting force R by means of first fastening points 44 a, 44 b of theelastic bands 61 a, 61 b adjustably positionable on thecarriages 41 a, 41 b, or rather of a plurality of such fastening points arranged longitudinally pitchiwse on said carriages. - Further alternative embodiments of the
exercise machine 1, not illustrated here, provide for the use, instead of theelastic bands 61 a, 61 b, of generic flexible transmission elements extended between thecarriages 4 a, 4 b and generators of the resisting force that can comprise: a plurality of weights adapted to be selectively associated with a second end of the flexible transmission element, electrical drives, pneumatic drives, an inertial force generator, individually or in combination with each other. In such embodiments, the possibility of adjusting the position of theidle pulleys idle pulleys exercise machine 1, or adjustably positionableidle pulleys deviator elements 9 a, 9 b. - In
FIGS. 5-7 a further preferred embodiment of the exercise machine of the invention is schematically represented seen from the rear, in order to highlight the relevant structural elements, that is adapted to exercise the upper limbs of a user (not shown). In the following description and in said figures, the elements of theexercise machine 1 that are structurally or functionally equivalent to those previously illustrated with reference to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-4 shall be indicated with the same numerals and shall not be further described. - In such an embodiment, the
frame 2 further comprises two substantiallyvertical uprights seat 3, and, on the reverse of the back 32, a substantiallyhorizontal rod 26 associated at its ends with theuprights arm 4 a is hinged at the upper end of the upright 25 a, through thepin element 5 a. Thecarriage 41 a is mounted on thearm 4 a at a distal end thereof and can slide along a direction substantially parallel to longitudinal axis thereof. On thecarriage 41 a a pair ofengagement elements engagement element 42 a, substantially cylindrical in shape, defines a handle element for a user's hand, at which the user can exert a thrusting force S, whereas theengagement element 43 a defines a support element for a user's forearm. - The
applicator device 6 of the resisting force R comprises: anelastic band 61 a tensioned between thefastening point 44 a, defined on thecarriage 41 a, and asecond fastening point 251 b, defined on the upright 25 b; aidle pulley 62 a adjustably positionable on therod 26 at the end opposite to the upright 25 a carrying thearm 4 a; adeviator element 9 a of the path of theelastic band 61 a, comprising a roller slidably mounted on the upright 25 a. In the same way as outlined above, the adjustment of the position of theidle pulley 62 a allows the tensioning of theelastic band 61 a, and therefore the intensity of the resisting force R, to be adjusted; the adjustment of the position of thedeviator element 9 a allows the path of theelastic band 61 a, and therefore the direction of application of the resisting force R to thecarriage 41 a to be modified (FIG. 7 a). - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 5-7 , theexercise machine 1 allows a method for exercising the musculature of a user's upper limb to be carried out in a totally analogous way to what has already been outlined for the embodiment suitable for exercising the lower limbs. - In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the
exercise machine 1 ofFIG. 5-7 can comprise a second arm hinged to the upright 25 b, in order to simultaneously exercise both upper limbs. - Further embodiments provide that different flexible transmission elements and generators of resisting force R are used as well as that, as an alternative or in addition to those described above, adjusting means of the direction of application of the resisting force R defined on the
carriage 41 a are used, similarly to what has already been outlined for the embodiment suitable for exercising the lower limbs. - Obviously, those skilled in the art may introduce modifications and variants in the above described exercise machine, in order to satisfy specific and contingent requirements, which modification and variants fall anyhow within the scope of protection as is defined by the appended claims.
Claims (22)
1. Exercise machine (1) comprising:
a frame (2) adapted to support said machine (1) with respect to a supporting surface (8);
at least one arm (4 a, 4 b) hinged to said frame (2) and comprising, at a distal end thereof, at least one engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) for an end (71) of a user's limb (7), said at least one engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) being adapted to describe a substantially curvilinear trajectory (T) during the movement of said arm (4 a, 4 b);
an applicator device (6) of a resisting force (R) to said arm (4 a, 4 b); characterised in that said at least one engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) is fixed to a carriage (41 a, 41 b) slidably associated with said arm (4 a, 4 b) along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm (4 a, 4 b), and in that said applicator device (6) is associated with said carriage (41 a, 41 b) so as to apply a resisting force (R) to the arm (4 a, 4 b) along a direction of application angularly staggered with respect to a plane (π) locally tangent to said substantially curvilinear trajectory (T) for at least a portion of said trajectory (T).
2. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 1 , wherein said applicator device (6) comprises at least one flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b) extended between said carriage (41 a, 41 b) and a generator (61 a, 61 b) of the resisting force.
3. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 1 , comprising angular adjusting means (9 a, 9 b) of the direction of application of the resisting force (R) with respect to said plane (π) locally tangent to the curvilinear trajectory (T).
4. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 3 , wherein said angular adjusting means (9 a, 9 b) comprise at least one deviator element (9 a, 9 b) slidably mounted in said frame (2) and acting on said at least one flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b) to deviate the path thereof.
5. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 4 , wherein said at least one deviator element (9 a, 9 b) is adjustably positionable along a direction substantially perpendicular to said supporting surface (8).
6. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 4 , wherein said at least one deviator element (9 a, 9 b) comprises a roller.
7. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 3 , wherein said angular adjusting means (9 a, 9 b) comprise a fastening point (44 a, 44 b) of a first free end of said flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b), said fastening point (44 a, 44 b) being adjustably positionable on said carriage (41 a, 41 b) along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said arm (4 a, 4 b).
8. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 3 , wherein said angular adjusting means (9 a, 9 b) comprise a plurality of fastening points (44 a, 44 b) of a first free end of said flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b) defined on said carriage (41 a, 41 b) and spaced apart from each other along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said arm (4 a, 4 b).
9. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 8 , wherein said fastening points (44 a, 44 b) are pitchwise spaced apart from each other.
10. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 1 , wherein said resisting force (R) is applied to said carriage (41 a, 41 b) along an initial direction of application forming an angle (α) of between about 30° and about 130° with respect to said plane (π) locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory (T).
11. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 10 , wherein said resisting force (R) is applied to said carriage (41 a, 41 b) along an initial direction of application forming an angle (α) of between about 75° and about 105° with respect to said plane (π) locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory (T).
12. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 2 , wherein said generator of the resisting force (R) comprises adjusting means (62 a, 62 b) of the intensity of said resisting force.
13. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 2 , wherein said flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b) is an elastic element and wherein said generator of the resisting force (R) essentially consists of the flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b).
14. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 13 , wherein said elastic element (61 a, 61 b) extends between at least one fastening point (243 a, 243 b, 251 a) defined on said frame (2) and said carriage (41 a, 41 b) and is subjected to a predetermined pretensioning.
15. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 14 , wherein said applicator device (6) of the resisting force (R) comprises at least one pair of idle pulleys (62 a, 62 b, 63 a, 63 b) of said flexible transmission element (61 a, 61 b), interposed between said fastening point (243 a, 243 b, 251 a) and said carriage (2).
16. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 15 , wherein at least one of said idle pulleys (62 a, 62 b, 63 a, 63 b) is adjustably positionable along a direction substantially parallel to said supporting surface (8).
17. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 2 , wherein said generator of the resisting force (R) comprises a plurality of weights adapted to be selectively associated with a second end of said flexible transmission element.
18. Exercise machine (1) according claim 2 , wherein said generator of the force (R) comprises electrical drives.
19. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 2 , wherein said generator of the resisting force (R) comprises pneumatic drives.
20. Exercise machine (1) according to claim 2 , wherein said generator of the resisting force (R) is an inertial force generator.
21. Method for exercising the musculature of a user's limb (7) through an exercise machine (1) comprising a support frame (2), said method comprising the steps of:
a) engaging an engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b), positioned at a distal end of at least one arm (4 a, 4 b) hinged to said support frame (2) through an end (71) of the limb (7);
b) making said at least one arm (4 a, 4 b) of the exercise machine (1) rotate through the limb (7) so as to make the engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) describe a substantially curvilinear trajectory (T);
c) exerting a counteraction to the rotation of said at least one arm (4 a, 4 b) through an applicator device (6) of a resisting force (R) acting on said arm (4 a, 4 b) during at least a part of said step b) of rotation of said at least one arm (4 a, 4 b);
characterised in that it comprises the further step of:
d) translating said engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arm (4 a, 4 b) for at least a portion of said substantially curvilinear trajectory (T) and during at least a part of said step b) of rotation of said at least one arm (4 a, 4 b).
22. Method according to claim 21 , wherein said at least one engagement element (42 a, 42 b, 43 a, 43 b) is fixed to a carriage (41 a, 41 b) slidably associated with said at least one arm (4 a, 4 b) and wherein said step d) is carried out by applying a resisting force (R) to the carriage (41 a, 41 b) along a direction of application angularly staggered with respect to a plane (π) locally tangent to said curvilinear trajectory (T).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/082,856 US20050272575A1 (en) | 2004-03-19 | 2005-03-18 | Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
IT000533A ITMI20040533A1 (en) | 2004-03-19 | 2004-03-19 | IMPROVED GYMNASTIC MACHINE AND METHOD FOR EXERCISING THE MUSCULATION OF A LIMB IMPLEMENTABLE THROUGH SUCH MACHINE |
ITMI2004A000533 | 2004-03-19 | ||
US62856104P | 2004-11-18 | 2004-11-18 | |
US11/082,856 US20050272575A1 (en) | 2004-03-19 | 2005-03-18 | Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050272575A1 true US20050272575A1 (en) | 2005-12-08 |
Family
ID=35449724
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/082,856 Abandoned US20050272575A1 (en) | 2004-03-19 | 2005-03-18 | Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20050272575A1 (en) |
Cited By (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060252614A1 (en) * | 2005-05-03 | 2006-11-09 | Rotondale Ottavio T | Apparatus for human strength-training |
US20150352394A1 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2015-12-10 | Eduardo M. Marti | Range of Motion Improvement Device |
US20160107021A1 (en) * | 2013-06-03 | 2016-04-21 | Bagheera D.O.O. | Lever with slider |
US20180133545A1 (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2018-05-17 | Eduardo M. Marti | Ankle Range of Motion Improving Device |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US20190111299A1 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2019-04-18 | T-Rex Investment, Inc. | Programmable range of motion system |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
CN114404889A (en) * | 2021-12-23 | 2022-04-29 | 项桃妹 | Recovered equipment of shank that recovered branch of academic or vocational study was used |
Citations (37)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3558131A (en) * | 1969-04-14 | 1971-01-26 | Richard R Dragon | Exercise apparatus |
US4227689A (en) * | 1978-07-24 | 1980-10-14 | Kintron, Incorporated | Exercising device including linkage for control of muscular exertion required through exercising stroke |
US4406452A (en) * | 1981-12-24 | 1983-09-27 | Lapcevic Paul S | Weight lifting exercise device |
US4466613A (en) * | 1982-03-24 | 1984-08-21 | Biokinetics, Inc. | Portable quadriceps exerciser |
US4502681A (en) * | 1980-08-08 | 1985-03-05 | Olle Blomqvist | Apparatus for carrying out quadriceps training |
US4601468A (en) * | 1984-01-06 | 1986-07-22 | Loredan Biochemical, Inc. | Exercise and diagnostic system and method |
US4606540A (en) * | 1984-08-15 | 1986-08-19 | Chin Sen Chiu | Single column gym set |
US4629185A (en) * | 1985-07-11 | 1986-12-16 | Amann Michael J | Universal hydraulic exerciser |
US4781372A (en) * | 1987-04-15 | 1988-11-01 | Mccormack Patrick J | Ice-skating exercise device |
US4964629A (en) * | 1989-03-09 | 1990-10-23 | Wright Jerry F | Karate kick exercise apparatus |
US5044629A (en) * | 1989-04-06 | 1991-09-03 | Stephen Ryan | Wheelchair accessible weight training apparatus |
US5116297A (en) * | 1991-03-04 | 1992-05-26 | Stonecipher William L | Weight-lifting machine |
US5176601A (en) * | 1991-11-27 | 1993-01-05 | Reynolds Kelly P | Exercising apparatus |
US5213094A (en) * | 1990-07-30 | 1993-05-25 | Bonutti Peter M | Orthosis with joint distraction |
US5230680A (en) * | 1992-03-17 | 1993-07-27 | Wu Hong Chi | Torque variable exercising apparatus |
US5263914A (en) * | 1990-04-04 | 1993-11-23 | Loredan Biomedical, Inc. | Weight machine |
US5330405A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1994-07-19 | Pacific Fitness Corporation | Exercise machine |
US5372564A (en) * | 1993-05-05 | 1994-12-13 | Spirito; Pamela J. | Exercise device for exercising the leg abductor, upper arm and postural muscle groups |
US5413546A (en) * | 1990-11-13 | 1995-05-09 | Basile; Vincent F. | Bicep exercise device |
US5417634A (en) * | 1989-08-30 | 1995-05-23 | Pacific Fitness Corporation | Exercise machine with pre-stretch adjustment feature |
US5498222A (en) * | 1993-02-15 | 1996-03-12 | Hur; Young B. | Exercise device |
US5549533A (en) * | 1993-10-21 | 1996-08-27 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Combined leg press/leg extension machine |
US5569139A (en) * | 1995-01-11 | 1996-10-29 | Civie; Richard | Counter compressive force exercise machine |
US5624353A (en) * | 1996-07-30 | 1997-04-29 | Naidus; Scott G. | Dynamically controlled resistance exercise machine |
US5643152A (en) * | 1995-03-01 | 1997-07-01 | Cybex International, Inc. | Chest press exercise machine and method of exercising |
US5733229A (en) * | 1995-02-01 | 1998-03-31 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Exercise apparatus using body weight resistance |
US5733233A (en) * | 1995-12-28 | 1998-03-31 | Webber; Randall T. | Exercise apparatus with adjustable roller pads |
US5813951A (en) * | 1995-10-30 | 1998-09-29 | Einsig; Harold Joseph | Total body exercising and rehabilitation weight lifting machine and method |
US5911650A (en) * | 1997-09-29 | 1999-06-15 | Cox; Daniel Andrew | Ice skating simulator apparatus and method of using same |
US5944641A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1999-08-31 | Tnwk Corporation | Exercise machine |
US6319178B1 (en) * | 1998-01-29 | 2001-11-20 | Randall T. Webber | Leg exercise arm for exercise machine |
US6482139B1 (en) * | 1999-01-18 | 2002-11-19 | Stanley Haag | Exercise apparatus |
US6537185B1 (en) * | 1997-04-02 | 2003-03-25 | Young-Baek Hur | Exercise device |
US6659919B2 (en) * | 2001-06-27 | 2003-12-09 | James A. Deola | Leg exerciser |
US6811521B1 (en) * | 1999-10-05 | 2004-11-02 | Laser Fit Di Musso Giuseppe | Sporting apparatus to carry out exercises according to the natural physiological trajectory of each person |
US7112162B2 (en) * | 2002-01-17 | 2006-09-26 | Darrell Greenland | Exercise machine |
US7276018B2 (en) * | 2001-10-15 | 2007-10-02 | Steven Boyd Studdard | Reclining exercise chair |
-
2005
- 2005-03-18 US US11/082,856 patent/US20050272575A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (38)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3558131A (en) * | 1969-04-14 | 1971-01-26 | Richard R Dragon | Exercise apparatus |
US4227689A (en) * | 1978-07-24 | 1980-10-14 | Kintron, Incorporated | Exercising device including linkage for control of muscular exertion required through exercising stroke |
US4502681A (en) * | 1980-08-08 | 1985-03-05 | Olle Blomqvist | Apparatus for carrying out quadriceps training |
US4406452A (en) * | 1981-12-24 | 1983-09-27 | Lapcevic Paul S | Weight lifting exercise device |
US4466613A (en) * | 1982-03-24 | 1984-08-21 | Biokinetics, Inc. | Portable quadriceps exerciser |
US4601468A (en) * | 1984-01-06 | 1986-07-22 | Loredan Biochemical, Inc. | Exercise and diagnostic system and method |
US4606540A (en) * | 1984-08-15 | 1986-08-19 | Chin Sen Chiu | Single column gym set |
US4629185A (en) * | 1985-07-11 | 1986-12-16 | Amann Michael J | Universal hydraulic exerciser |
US4781372A (en) * | 1987-04-15 | 1988-11-01 | Mccormack Patrick J | Ice-skating exercise device |
US4964629A (en) * | 1989-03-09 | 1990-10-23 | Wright Jerry F | Karate kick exercise apparatus |
US5044629A (en) * | 1989-04-06 | 1991-09-03 | Stephen Ryan | Wheelchair accessible weight training apparatus |
US5417634A (en) * | 1989-08-30 | 1995-05-23 | Pacific Fitness Corporation | Exercise machine with pre-stretch adjustment feature |
US5263914A (en) * | 1990-04-04 | 1993-11-23 | Loredan Biomedical, Inc. | Weight machine |
US5213094A (en) * | 1990-07-30 | 1993-05-25 | Bonutti Peter M | Orthosis with joint distraction |
US5413546A (en) * | 1990-11-13 | 1995-05-09 | Basile; Vincent F. | Bicep exercise device |
US5116297A (en) * | 1991-03-04 | 1992-05-26 | Stonecipher William L | Weight-lifting machine |
US5176601A (en) * | 1991-11-27 | 1993-01-05 | Reynolds Kelly P | Exercising apparatus |
US5230680A (en) * | 1992-03-17 | 1993-07-27 | Wu Hong Chi | Torque variable exercising apparatus |
US5498222A (en) * | 1993-02-15 | 1996-03-12 | Hur; Young B. | Exercise device |
US5372564A (en) * | 1993-05-05 | 1994-12-13 | Spirito; Pamela J. | Exercise device for exercising the leg abductor, upper arm and postural muscle groups |
US5549533A (en) * | 1993-10-21 | 1996-08-27 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Combined leg press/leg extension machine |
US5944641A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1999-08-31 | Tnwk Corporation | Exercise machine |
US5330405B1 (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1998-11-03 | Pacific Fitness Corp | Exercise machine |
US5330405A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1994-07-19 | Pacific Fitness Corporation | Exercise machine |
US5569139A (en) * | 1995-01-11 | 1996-10-29 | Civie; Richard | Counter compressive force exercise machine |
US5733229A (en) * | 1995-02-01 | 1998-03-31 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Exercise apparatus using body weight resistance |
US5643152A (en) * | 1995-03-01 | 1997-07-01 | Cybex International, Inc. | Chest press exercise machine and method of exercising |
US5813951A (en) * | 1995-10-30 | 1998-09-29 | Einsig; Harold Joseph | Total body exercising and rehabilitation weight lifting machine and method |
US5733233A (en) * | 1995-12-28 | 1998-03-31 | Webber; Randall T. | Exercise apparatus with adjustable roller pads |
US5624353A (en) * | 1996-07-30 | 1997-04-29 | Naidus; Scott G. | Dynamically controlled resistance exercise machine |
US6537185B1 (en) * | 1997-04-02 | 2003-03-25 | Young-Baek Hur | Exercise device |
US5911650A (en) * | 1997-09-29 | 1999-06-15 | Cox; Daniel Andrew | Ice skating simulator apparatus and method of using same |
US6319178B1 (en) * | 1998-01-29 | 2001-11-20 | Randall T. Webber | Leg exercise arm for exercise machine |
US6482139B1 (en) * | 1999-01-18 | 2002-11-19 | Stanley Haag | Exercise apparatus |
US6811521B1 (en) * | 1999-10-05 | 2004-11-02 | Laser Fit Di Musso Giuseppe | Sporting apparatus to carry out exercises according to the natural physiological trajectory of each person |
US6659919B2 (en) * | 2001-06-27 | 2003-12-09 | James A. Deola | Leg exerciser |
US7276018B2 (en) * | 2001-10-15 | 2007-10-02 | Steven Boyd Studdard | Reclining exercise chair |
US7112162B2 (en) * | 2002-01-17 | 2006-09-26 | Darrell Greenland | Exercise machine |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060252614A1 (en) * | 2005-05-03 | 2006-11-09 | Rotondale Ottavio T | Apparatus for human strength-training |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US20160107021A1 (en) * | 2013-06-03 | 2016-04-21 | Bagheera D.O.O. | Lever with slider |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
US20190111299A1 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2019-04-18 | T-Rex Investment, Inc. | Programmable range of motion system |
US10765901B2 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2020-09-08 | T-Rex Investment, Inc. | Programmable range of motion system |
US9873010B2 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2018-01-23 | T-Rex Investment, Inc. | Range of motion improvement device |
US11161002B2 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2021-11-02 | T-REX Investment Inc. | Programmable range of motion system |
US9669249B2 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2017-06-06 | T-Rex Investment, Inc. | Range of motion improvement device |
US20150352394A1 (en) * | 2014-06-04 | 2015-12-10 | Eduardo M. Marti | Range of Motion Improvement Device |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US20180133545A1 (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2018-05-17 | Eduardo M. Marti | Ankle Range of Motion Improving Device |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
CN114404889A (en) * | 2021-12-23 | 2022-04-29 | 项桃妹 | Recovered equipment of shank that recovered branch of academic or vocational study was used |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20050272575A1 (en) | Exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine | |
US4511137A (en) | Compound weight lifting exercising machine | |
US10434357B2 (en) | Dorsiflex and plantarflex exercise machine | |
US10149999B2 (en) | Lower body exercise equipment with upper body pedals and methods of using the same | |
EP1598095B1 (en) | Gymnastic machine | |
CA2606676C (en) | Abdominal exercise device | |
US4807874A (en) | Combination plantar flexion/dorsiflexion ankle machine | |
US20050096197A1 (en) | Rigid arm pull down exercise machine | |
EP2517758B1 (en) | Glute exercise machine with rocking user support | |
US5554090A (en) | Calf exercise machine | |
US20020193210A1 (en) | Calf/ankle isolator | |
US20160279459A1 (en) | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus | |
US7909747B1 (en) | Exercise device and method | |
WO2011093054A1 (en) | Exercise assist | |
JP2016505304A (en) | Rehabilitation device with shadow legs | |
AU2017272913A1 (en) | Portable stretching equipment | |
EP1576988B1 (en) | Improved exercise machine and method for exercising the musculature of a limb that can be carried out through such a machine | |
US20050003935A1 (en) | Leg stretching apparatus | |
US5135457A (en) | Calf exercise machine | |
GB2339395A (en) | Exercise apparatus | |
AU773133B2 (en) | Orthotic bracing walking trainer | |
FI123726B (en) | Device in gym for tipping presses and rotary training | |
JP5174858B2 (en) | Lower limb improvement device | |
US20090082181A1 (en) | Gymnastic apparatus, particularly for exercising extensor muscles of inferior limbs thighs muscles and gluteus muscles | |
US7540830B2 (en) | Leg stabilization device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |