Exercise apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides an exercise apparatus comprising a main frame, a carriage movable relative to the main frame, a user engagement member, and an arm, the user engagement member linked to the arm, the arm in turn linked to the main frame, wherein the linkage between the arm and the main frame is adapted or configured such that the user engagement member is capable of being moved from an operable position to a storable position.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates generally to an exercise apparatus and more particularly to an apparatus constructed for use primarily in the conditioning and strengthening of the user's muscles. The apparatus is adapted for ease or storage and / or portability.BACKGROUND[0002]Regular exercise is important for building and maintaining strength and endurance, and also to maintain flexibility. While activities such as running, swimming and stretching are somewhat effective in achieving those ends, the use of an exercise apparatus is generally employed for a more comprehensive training program. Apparatus developed for this purpose typically provide the user with a force resistance against which muscular effort must be applied. Resistance is often provided by a weight, or by an elastic element. Such devices permit the force to be applied to the user's body from one or many different directions in order to develop substantially multiple areas of the body.[0003]One particu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an exercise apparatus with a user engagement member that can be rotated for full motion during exercise. The apparatus can be easily transported and stable in its operable position. The arm of the apparatus has a stopping member that limits movement of the carriage to prevent damage and minimize user movement. The apparatus can be locked in a compact position. The arm is made of lightweight metal, such as aluminum, and may have cut outs to minimize weight. The rotation and insertion are allowed by a sliding means that prevents removal of the shoulder retaining means. The technical effects of the invention include improved user comfort, safety, and ease of transport and storage.

Problems solved by technology

Apparatus used in the Pilates Method are generally large, complex and costly machines which occupy a substantial amount of space, and consequently are not suitable for home use.

Many homes do not have sufficient space for this purpose.

Varying body weight and resistance of the springs make the carriage more or less difficult to move.

As is immediately apparent, reformers of the prior art are large, cumbersome, heavy and difficult to transport.

Attempts to produce reformers for home use have lead to devices that are difficult to fold and unfold, break easily, are not easy to transporting, have complex folding mechanisms, et cetera.

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