MULTI-FUNCTION EXERCISE SYSTEM

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/300,816, filed Feb. 2, 2010, and titled MULTI-FUNCTION HOME EXERCISE APPARATUS. The entirety of the above listed application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Exercise equipment can be bulky and demand a large space for installation. Those who desire to own their own exercise equipment for their home environment have to allocate ample space in order to use the equipment. When not in use, home exercise equipment seems out of place and distracts from the interior design of the room. One solution is to keep all home exercise equipment in a designated exercise room. However, a spare room to designate solely to exercise equipment is costly and not always an option for those with limited square footage. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a more accommodating exercise apparatus that is of compact size and enables a user to engage in a number of exercises.

SUMMARY

A multi-functional exercise system is provided. The multi-functional exercise system consists of a support structure including a pair of mounting regions horizontally spaced apart from each other and spaced apart from a ground surface, and a pair of left and right arms. Each arm is movably coupled at a proximate end of the arm to a respective one of the mounting regions of the support structure. Each arm is selectively movable between an upward configuration in which a distal end of the respective arm is oriented upward, and a downward configuration in which a distal end of the respective arm is oriented downward. The distal ends of each of the left and right arms including a respective handle. It is an object of the multi-functional exercise system to provide different configurations that enable a user to perform a plurality of different exercises.

Claimed subject matter, however, is not limited by this summary as other implementations may be disclosed by the following written description and associated drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a multi-functional exercise system.

FIG. 2 shows an example attachment configured to removably mount to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows the example attachment of FIG. 2 mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the upward configuration.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the downward configuration.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in an example compact storage configuration.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in an unlocked state.

FIG. 7 shows the example attachment of FIG. 2 mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the downward configuration.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of another example attachment mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in one configuration.

FIG. 9 shows the example attachment of FIG. 8 in another configuration.

FIG. 10 shows another example attachment mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the upward configuration.

FIG. 11 shows example adjustable weights attached to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in one configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a multi-functional exercise system 1. The multi-functional exercise system includes a main body portion, such as support structure 10, a left arm 40a, and a right arm 40b.

Support structure 10 includes a pair of mounting regions horizontally spaced apart from each other and spaced apart from a ground surface. Support structure 10 may further include a pair of leg members, such as left leg 30a and right leg 30b, for contacting the ground surface. As shown in FIG. 1, the leg members may extend in a generally vertical direction and may include an upper end and a lower end. The upper end may be configured to pivot around a frame member of the support structure. For example, support structure 10 may be coupled to an upper end of each of leg members 30a and 30b by respective pivot joints with respective locking mechanisms 35a and 35b. In this way, leg members 30a and 30b are mounted to a free end of support structure 10 so as to pivot around a frame, but may be constrained from sliding along the length of the frame. Therefore, leg members 30a and 30b may be positioned as desired by a user.

The lower ends of leg members 30a and 30b may be configured to extend substantially along the ground surface. In this way, the lower ends serve to stabilize multi-functional exercise system 1.

Left arm 40a and right arm 40b include respective proximate ends and respective distal ends. The proximate ends of the left arm 40a and right arm 40b are each movably coupled to a respective one of the mounting regions of the support structure. The proximate ends are coupled via a respective pivot joint connecting each of the arms to the respective mounting locations of support structure 10. Further, each of the pivot joints includes respective locking mechanisms 45a and 45b to selectively and releasably lock the pivoting of the pivot joint. As such, left arm 40a and right arm 40b are selectively movable between an upward configuration in which a distal end of the respective arm is oriented upward, and a downward configuration in which the distal end of the respective arm is oriented downward. FIG. 1 shows left and right arms in the upward configuration. While locking mechanisms 45a and 45b enable respective arms 40a and 40b to rotate about support structure 10, the locking mechanisms may also prevent the arms from sliding along the length of support structure 10. Thus, a user may feel increased stability when using multi-functional exercise system 1.

Locking mechanisms 45a and 45b enable respective arms 40a and 40b to be in a locked state or an unlocked state. In a locked state, locking mechanisms 45a and 45b are engaged, and the pivot joints of respective arms 40a and 40b are configured to be locked in either an upward configuration, a downward configuration, or at angles between the upward configuration and the downward configuration. In an unlocked state, locking mechanisms 45a and/or 45b are disengaged, and the pivot joints of respective arms 40a and/or 40b are configured to freely rotate about support structure 10. In this way, left arm 40a and/or right arm 40b may be positioned in a variety of different rotational positions enabling a user to perform a variety of different exercises. For example, when in a locked state with arms 40a and 40b in an upward configuration, a user may perform a dip exercise which focuses on strengthening triceps. As another example, when in an unlocked state (arms 40a and 40b free to rotate), a user may perform a chest fly exercise focusing on strengthening pectoral muscles by rotating arms 40a and 40b.

Locking mechanisms 35a, 35b, 45a, and 45b may be configured to engage and disengage in any suitable way. As one example, a pivot joint of an arm or leg may include one or more holes that align with one or more holes on support structure 10. To engage, locking mechanisms 35a, 35b, 45a, and 45b may be configured to be received by aligned holes. For example, a locking mechanism may be configured as a pin coupled to a knob. The pin may be received by the aligned holes and the knob may remain visible so as to easily remove the pin for adjusting the locking mechanism. To disengage, the pin may be removed from the aligned holes. As one example, the pin may include a spring enabling the pin to retract thus disengaging the pin from the aligned holes, and enabling the respective arm or leg to rotate freely. The aligned holes may be threaded or unthreaded, and likewise the pin may be threaded or unthreaded.

It will be appreciated that the locking mechanisms may be configured in other ways and the above examples are non-limiting. Further, the locking mechanisms may engage and disengage with other portions of multi-functional exercise system 1 aside from support structure 10. The locking mechanisms may be configured to allow a user to adjust the rotational position of a respective arm and/or leg. Additionally or alternatively, the locking mechanisms may be configured to allow a user to adjust the position of a respective arm and/or leg to slide along the length of a frame member. However, it will be appreciated that the position of the respective arm and/or leg may be constrained to positions that keep the multi-functional exercise system structurally sound, thereby increasing safety during use.

As shown in FIG. 1, support structure 10 may include a frame coupling the left and right leg members. For example, the frame may be a U-shaped member 20 supported in a substantially horizontal orientation spaced apart from the ground surface. U-shaped member 20 may be configured such that each arm is movably coupled at the proximate end of the arm to a respective end of U-shaped member 20. Additionally or alternatively, support structure 10 may include a U-shaped member in a substantially horizontal orientation in contact with the ground surface.

U-shaped member 20 may include left side frame 20a and right side frame 20b. Each side frame may be bent into a generally L-shape such that when the L-shaped side frames are coupled to each other, U-shaped member 20 is formed. The L-shaped side frames may be coupled in a variety of different ways. As one example, right side frame 20b may have a section with a reduced diameter as compared to left side frame 20a. As such, the reduced diameter section on right side frame 20b may nest and slide into left side frame 20a, thereby forming U-shaped frame 20.

Additionally, right side frame 20b may include a series of holes that may align with one or more holes on left side frame 20a to enable different width spacing for the U-shape frame 20. A locking mechanism 25 on the left side frame 20a may engage and lock with the holes on the right side frame 20b at a desired spacing. In this way, locking mechanism 25 may serve as a width adjustment mechanism, allowing a user to adjust the distance between the ends of U-shaped member 20. As such, a user may adjust the multi-functional exercise system to their desired liking.

As described above, multi-functional exercise system 1 may be adjusted in a variety of ways enabling a user to perform a variety of different exercises. The arms may be adjusted in an upward configuration, a downward configuration, or at angles between the upward configuration and the downward configuration. Further, the distal ends of each of the left and right arms may include a respective handle configured to receive an attachment. Each handle may include a respective grip, for comfort and secure purchase. In this way, the multi-functional exercise system may be configured to enable a user to perform additional exercises. Examples of attachments are discussed below with respect to FIGS. 2, 3, and 7-11.

Attachments may include one or more body contacting portions to facilitate engagement with multi-functional exercise system 1. An attachment may be configured to mount to the attachment mounting portion of each of the left and right arms when each of the arms is in the upward configuration. Such a configuration positions the body contacting portions in an upward location to support the user in an exercise of a first exercise type in which the user's body is suspended off the ground. FIGS. 3, 8, 9, and 10 show examples of an attachment mounted to multi-functional exercise system 1 in the upward configuration. Additionally, an attachment may be configured to mount to the attachment mounting portion of each of the left and right arms when each of the arms is in the downward configuration. Such a configuration positions the body contacting portions in a downward location to support the user in an exercise of a second exercise type in which the user's body is at least partially positioned on the ground. FIG. 7 shows an example of an attachment mounted to multi-functional exercise system 1 in the downward configuration. It will be appreciated that some attachments may be mounted to the multi-functional exercise system in other configurations. For example, an attachment may be configured to mount one arm in the upward configuration, while the other arm is in a different configuration. Likewise, an attachment may be configured to mount one arm in the downward configuration, while the other arm is in a different configuration. Further, an attachment may be configured to mount one or more arms at an angle between the upward and downward configurations.

Turning first to FIG. 2, an example attachment configured to removably mount to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 is provided. The example attachment is shown as a backrest attachment 50. Backrest attachment 50 may include a frame 60, one or more mounting elements 62, one or more armrests 65, and a backrest 70.

Frame 60 may be configured to support each of the one or more mounting elements 62, one or more armrests 65, and backrest 70. As shown, frame 60 may be configured as a U-shape with both free ends bent upward for use as handles. The handles may be covered with grips, for comfort. Frame 60 may be coupled to cushioned armrests 65, which may be mounted on the left and right sides of frame 60.

Mounting elements 62 may be configured in any suitable way. For example, mounting elements 62 may be configured as a tube with a greater diameter than the attachment mounting portion. In this way, the mounting elements may be configured to slide onto the distal ends of the arms such that the handles pass through the mounting elements. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations for mounting elements are possible.

Cushioned backrest 70 may be configured to pivot about frame 60. The pivoting of backrest 70 may enable a user to perform different exercises and/or achieve a desired level of comfort while performing said exercises. Further, frame 60 may optionally include an extension 61 that extends from a lower portion of frame 60 substantially aligning with the positioning of backrest 70. Extension 61 may be configured to retain cushion backrest 70 in a normally upright position, thus restricting the pivoting of backrest 70 in one direction when backrest 70 is engaged with extension 61.

In one mode of operation, backrest attachment 50 may lie on the floor by itself as shown in FIG. 2. In this way, a user may lie on the floor and use backrest attachment 50 for a reverse crunch exercise.

In another mode of operation, backrest attachment 50 may be configured to engage with left arm 40a and right arm 40b via mounting elements 62 as shown in FIG. 3. Mounting elements 62 may be configured to releasably engage with attachment mounting portions of the multi-functional exercise system 1. For example, each handle at the distal ends of arms 40a and 40b may serve as an attachment mounting portion. As shown, backrest attachment 50 may engage with arms 40a and 40b in the upward configuration. Such a configuration may enable a user to perform a knee or leg raise exercise, for example. An optional locking mechanism may be used to lock the attachment to multi-functional exercise system 1.

It will be appreciated that backrest attachment 50 may engage with arms 40a and 40b in the downward configuration, as shown in FIG. 7. In such a configuration, a user may utilize the pivoting feature of backrest 70 to perform a reverse crunch.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the downward configuration. Such a configuration may be used for a push up exercise, for example. As another example, the user may tug their feet under one handle to do an anchored crunch exercise. As yet another example, the user may also raise their legs and rest them on U-shape frame 20 for a raised leg crunch exercise. Additionally, U-shaped frame 20 may be used to perform a seated dip exercise. As described above, the distance between the handles may be adjusted by adjusting locking mechanism 25, and/or by locking the arms at a different rotational position by adjusting locking mechanisms 45a and 45b.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in an unlocked state. As described above, an unlocked state enables arms 40a and 40b to rotate freely. In such a state, the user may use the multi-functional exercise system 1 for a chest fly exercise, a dip fly exercise, and a push up exercise with variable handle spacing distance, which are provided as non-limiting examples. As another example, the user may also stand on the handle portion of the left arm and right arm with their hands holding onto U-shaped frame 20 for support while squeezing their legs together to perform a hip adduction exercise.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in an example compact storage configuration. Such a configuration allows for easy storage and transportation. To achieve the compact storage configuration, the exercise system may be configured to fold down by pivoting the arms and leg members at the pivot joints until the arms and leg members are in substantially the same plane. As such, the exercise system may be configured to collapse to the compact storage configuration by disengaging at least one locking mechanism of one of the pivot joints, which is provided as one non-limiting example.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of another example attachment mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in one configuration. As shown, straps 80 are configured to mount to the attachment mounting portions at the distal ends of arms 40a and 40b, which are locked in the upward configuration. Straps 80 may be configured to releasably engage with the mounting portions of each of the arms. Further, straps 80 may be configured such that the length of the straps may be adjusted to a desired distance. As shown, each strap 80 may have a handle at a distal end. Thus, a user may grasp the handles and move them in any suitable direction as indicated by the arrows. As non-limiting examples, the rope hands may be used for pushups, chest flies, chest flies with varying angles, dip flies, etc. As described above, such exercises may be varied by adjusting one or more locking mechanisms.

FIG. 9 shows the example attachment of FIG. 8 in another configuration. The user may couple the two strap handles via connector 80a, thus creating a triangular configuration. As such, a user may use the handles for an abdominal roll exercise by kneeling on the ground surface and extending the handles in the direction of the arrows as shown. By coupling the strap handles via connector 80a, the handles are constrained to move only in the mid plane (mirror plane) of multi-functional exercise system 1. It will be appreciated that an abdominal roll exercise is provided as one example, and other exercises are possible. Further, connector 80a may be configured as any suitable connector to couple straps 80, and the illustration in FIG. 9 is provided as one non-limiting example.

FIG. 10 shows another example attachment mounted to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in the upward configuration. As shown, crossbar 90 may be configured to mount to attachment mounting portions on the ends of the arms. Crossbar 90 may include one or more mounting elements configured to releasably engage with the attachment mounting portions of the arms. As shown, left leg 30a and right leg 30b may be configured such that their length is adjustable. For example, a locking mechanism may selectively engage with a series of holes on an inner member of legs 30a and 30b to adjust to a different length. Likewise, left arm 40a and right arm 40b may be configured such that their length is adjustable by engaging a locking mechanism with an inner member of arms 40a and 40b. By increasing the length of the legs and/or arms, the multi-functional exercise system 1 may enable additional exercises. For example, when crossbar 90 is mounted to arms 40a and 40b in the upward configuration as shown in FIG. 10, a user may perform a pull up exercise.

FIG. 11 shows example adjustable weights attached to the multi-functional exercise system of FIG. 1 in one configuration. Adjustable weights 95 may be configured to removably attach to each of the arms. In one example, adjustable weights 95 may be configured to removably attach to each of the arms in the down configuration, as shown in FIG. 11. However, it will be appreciated that the adjustable weights may be configured to removably attach to each of the arms in other configurations.

Adjustable weights 95 may be configured as a removable weight assembly including portions 96a and 96b. Portions 96a and 96b may be coupled by a snapping mechanism or a screw/thread mechanism, such that when coupled, portions 96a and 96b wrap around their respective arms. However, it will be appreciated that other coupling mechanisms are possible. Adjustable weights 95 may be configured to slide in position along each arm to vary a distance from the pivot joint, and thus to vary the load lifted by a user when pivoting each arm during an exercise. A clamp handle 97 may be used to tighten the weight assembly to a desired position along the length of the arm. For example, when the weight assembly is positioned near the pivot point of the arm, the weight assembly has minimal resistance to the pivot movement of the arm. However, when the weight assembly is positioned farther from the pivot point (closer to the distal ends of the arms), the weight of the weight assembly enables greater resistance as each arm pivots during an exercise.

The above description relates to a multi-functional exercise system that can be adjusted to a variety of different configurations enabling many different exercises. The versatility of the multi-functional exercise system provides a number of exercises without purchasing excessive pieces of exercise equipment. As described, the multi-functional exercise system can be folded into a compact configuration for transport or storage. Thus, a user may have one piece of equipment that enables them to perform many different exercises without occupying too much space in their home environment.

Multi-functional exercise system 1 may be made from any suitable material. For example, frame members such as support structure 10 may be made from round metal tubing, such as steel, which is provided as one non-limiting example. The pivot joints may be plastic, for example ABS. The grips, backrest cushions, and arm cushions may be an expanded foam with a skin, for comfort.

It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the left and right arms may be designed to primarily be used for exercise in the downward configuration and need not be pivotable to the upward configuration described above. In such embodiments, the multi-functional exercise system includes a support structure including a pair of mounting regions horizontally spaced apart from each other and spaced apart from a ground surface. The system further includes a left arm and a right arm, each arm being movably coupled at a proximate end of the arm to a respective one of the mounting regions of the support structure, and movable in a downward configuration in which a distal end of the respective arm is oriented downward, the distal ends of each of the left and right arms including a respective handle. The system may further include a respective pivot joint connecting each of the arms to the respective mounting location of the support structure. In the downward configuration, the pivot joints of the left and right arms are configured to freely rotate in an unlocked state.

It should be understood that the embodiments herein are illustrative and not restrictive, since the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than by the description preceding them, and all changes that fall within metes and bounds of the claims, or equivalence of such metes and bounds thereof are therefore intended to be embraced by the claims.