A biodynamic apparatus to perform correct, safe and effective SIT-UP and LEGS-UP exercises and simultaneously perform spinal arching,
spinal decompression, and flexibility exercises, comprising of two part frame hinged at one end and a set of parallel bars that elevate and anchor the legs of the user concentrating the exercise in the abdominal area of the body. The main feature of the apparatus is provided by a device the inventor calls “flexor”. The flexor is not an ordinary
lumbar support. Its function is to meet the natural fulcrum of the human
torso, which is below the
sacrum, to safely and efficiently articulate. Most exerciser bend the spine during the exercise, rather than the
pelvis putting a tremendous negative stress on the
vertebra and on the intervertebral discs. With the help of the “Flexor” the
torso can move from horizontal to at least 90 degrees angle as one straight piece, free from the gravitational stress produced on the spine, especially on the cervical
vertebra, by the weight of the head during the
initiation of the exercises. It is a fact that ordinary SIT-UP and LEGS-UP exercises the work is performed for the most part by the neck, back and
lumbar muscles during the first part of the movement placing a dangerous negative stress on the spine, and especially on the
spinal cord. With the use of this apparatus, the reverse can be observed. The user by
lying on the “flexor” places in traction the entire set of abdominal, pectoral and
neck muscles creating a direct
line of force between the
abdomen and the head. The spine is arched and decompressed, the
abdominal muscles are in traction and the
lumbar muscles are neutralized since there are bent beyond their working point. This position of the body allows to safely concentrate 100% the force on the
abdominal muscles to initiate the primary work constituted by the lifting of head of the user, instead of the neck, and on the lumbar muscles of the user, as well as to protect the spine and the weak
abdominal muscles from negative stress and subsequent short and long term injuries. Decompression, arching, and flexibility of the spine, being achieved during this new method of performing SIT-UP and LEGS-UP exercises, simultaneously, make this apparatus bio-dynamically correct, as far as distribution, compensation and
equalization of stresses; meet the scientific principles of
muscle dynamics of traction and contraction; protect the spine from negative stress, especially the weak cervical and lumbar areas; maintain and enhance the spine's integrity and flexibility; and obtain maximum abdominal
muscle developments, which are the major benefits of this invention. The flexor is mounted on two external parallel railing as to adjust to the length of all users. It also has an internal adjustable mechanism that allows its two padded flanges to adjust in width to accommodate all
waist sizes of users for additional support and prevention of lateral stress to the lower spine.