Lat pulldown exercise machine and method of exercise

United States Patent [m

Simonson

[54] LAT PULLDOWN EXERCISE MACHINE AND METHOD OF EXERCISE

[76] Inventor: Roy Simonson, Cybex Division of

Lumex, Inc. 2840 Janitell Rd., Colorado
Springs, Colo. 80906

[ * ] Notice: The term of this patent shall not extend beyond the expiration date of Pat. No. 5,580,341.

[21] Appl. No.: 401,816

[22] Filed: Mar. 10,1995

Related U.S. Application Data

[63] Continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 396,670, Mar. 1, 1995.

[51] Int. CI.6 A63B 21/062; A63B 23/02

[52] U.S. CI 482/100; 482/72; 482/134;

482/136; 482/138; 482/139; 482/908

[58] Field of Search 482/72, 73, 92-100,

482/133-139, 908

[56] References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

Cybex Div. Of Lumex, Inc., "Eagle Fitness Systems By Cybex," Brochure, pp. 7, 14 & 15.

Nautilus Sports/Medical Industries, Inc., "Machine Operating Manual: Instructions For Use, Maintenance Tips, Warranties, Parts", Brochure, pp. 18-22.

(List continued on next page.)

Primary Examiner—Richard J. Apley
Assistant Examiner—Victor K. Hwang

[57] ABSTRACT

An apparatus and a method for performing a lat pulldown exercise are disclosed. A user support and a primary hinge are mounted to a frame. A secondary hinge is mounted to the primary hinge. An arm mounted to the secondary hinge has a handle adapted to be grasped by the user. The two hinges permit the user to displace the handle in either or both the longitudinal and lateral directions. A means for resisting the displacement of the handle, preferably in both the lateral and longitudinal directions, is provided. The resistance means may include an incremental weight stack operably engaged to the handle by belts directed by self-aligning pulleys. A second handle, arm and secondary hinge may be provided for the other hand so that the user may exercise both halves of his body. The arms may be connected such that both handles move the same longitudinal and/or lateral distance. To use the exercise machine, a user selects a weight for exercise, adjusts a knee pad and sits on a seat, grasps the handle and pulls downward toward his shoulder, moving the handle longitudinally and laterally as he so chooses, overcoming the resistance.

23 Claims, 21 Drawing Sheets

Page 2

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

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