CA2434904A1 - Hand-roller exercise apparatus - Google Patents
Hand-roller exercise apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2434904A1 CA2434904A1 CA 2434904 CA2434904A CA2434904A1 CA 2434904 A1 CA2434904 A1 CA 2434904A1 CA 2434904 CA2434904 CA 2434904 CA 2434904 A CA2434904 A CA 2434904A CA 2434904 A1 CA2434904 A1 CA 2434904A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- exercise apparatus
- platform
- pair
- platforms
- user
- 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.)
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Classifications
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- 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
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/20—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, e.g. gliding means, to be moved over the floor or other surface, e.g. guide tracks, during exercising
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/02—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for large-room or outdoor sporting games
- A63B71/023—Supports, e.g. poles
- A63B2071/026—Supports, e.g. poles stabilised by weight
- A63B2071/027—Supports, e.g. poles stabilised by weight using player's own weight, e.g. on a platform
-
- 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
- A63B21/0442—Anchored at one end only, the other end being manipulated by the user
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- 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
-
- 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
- A63B21/0557—Details of attachments, e.g. clips or clamps
-
- 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
- A63B2208/0214—Kneeling
- A63B2208/0219—Kneeling on hands and knees
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Cardiology (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
Abstract
An assisted hand-roller exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface. A pair of wheeled platforms are connected to a kneeling pad by biasing members which provide assistance to a user during the exercise. A pair of adjustable footstraps connect to the kneeling pad. A user's hands are placed on the upper surfaces of the platforms. The upper surface of the platform is rotatable in relation to the connection point between the platform and the biasing member.
Description
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
HAND-ROLLER EXERCISE APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to the field of exercise apparatus and more particularly to a hand-roller exercise apparatus in which a pair of hand-held, wheeled support platforms having to an assistive mechanism are moved along a surface in order to exercise the abdominal area and upper body of a user.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Much of the world's growing population suffers from being overweight or obese.
Exercise has become more important than ever as a means to combat this growing problem. This has led to a proliferation of exercise equipment designed to help individuals exercise. For example, many devices exist to aid users in the performance of 2o sit-ups from a prone, face-up position. More recently, abdominal exercise methods have been developed which require a person to start in a kneeling position on hands and knees.
The user then pushes his or her body forward, sliding along on his or her hands until prone, with arms extended forward. The user then returns to the kneeling position by reversing the sliding action. This kneel-prone-kneel movement allows the user to engage and isolate the abdominal muscles.
The simplest kneel-prone-kneel device is the classic exercise wheel. At its most basic, this comprises a wheel with an axle extending on either side to form a pair of handles for a user to grip. However, the kneel-prone-kneel exercise motion is inherently difficult to 3o complete. This has resulted in the development of assistive apparatus to assist the average participant in completing the motion. This usually takes the form of a biasing mechanism that facilitates the user's ability to return to the final kneeling position.
For example, U.S. Patent No. 1,984,165 to Tolchin teaches a track and hand trolley with a compression spring, biased to return the hands to the kneeling position. U.S.
Patent No.
HAND-ROLLER EXERCISE APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to the field of exercise apparatus and more particularly to a hand-roller exercise apparatus in which a pair of hand-held, wheeled support platforms having to an assistive mechanism are moved along a surface in order to exercise the abdominal area and upper body of a user.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Much of the world's growing population suffers from being overweight or obese.
Exercise has become more important than ever as a means to combat this growing problem. This has led to a proliferation of exercise equipment designed to help individuals exercise. For example, many devices exist to aid users in the performance of 2o sit-ups from a prone, face-up position. More recently, abdominal exercise methods have been developed which require a person to start in a kneeling position on hands and knees.
The user then pushes his or her body forward, sliding along on his or her hands until prone, with arms extended forward. The user then returns to the kneeling position by reversing the sliding action. This kneel-prone-kneel movement allows the user to engage and isolate the abdominal muscles.
The simplest kneel-prone-kneel device is the classic exercise wheel. At its most basic, this comprises a wheel with an axle extending on either side to form a pair of handles for a user to grip. However, the kneel-prone-kneel exercise motion is inherently difficult to 3o complete. This has resulted in the development of assistive apparatus to assist the average participant in completing the motion. This usually takes the form of a biasing mechanism that facilitates the user's ability to return to the final kneeling position.
For example, U.S. Patent No. 1,984,165 to Tolchin teaches a track and hand trolley with a compression spring, biased to return the hands to the kneeling position. U.S.
Patent No.
2,821,394 to Barbeaux teaches a spiral spring added to the wheels to provide assistance to the user in returning to the starting position. U.S. Patent No. 5,499,961 to Mattox teaches a roller/track device with an elastic cord attached to a hand-grip roller. The elastic cord is also attached near the knees to return the hand-grip roller towards the knees.
U.S. Patent to No. 5,261,866 to Mattox teaches a single wheel rotatably mounted on an axle with a pair of handgrips telescopically mounted on the axle. A length of elastic tubing is mounted to each end of the axle and has a pair of pads upon which a user may stand or kneel when using the exercise wheel. The elastic tubing provides resistance during the push phase of the exercise and assistance during the pull phase, aiding the user to return to the starting i5 position.
All of the current designs for assistive kneel-prone-kneel exercise machines, whether using tracks or exercise wheels as described above, have a significant limitation: they are limited to a linear, straight forward and straight back movement. This occurs because (i) 20 the user has to place both hands on a single device; and/or (ii) the wheels of the device are designed for linear movement, for example, as taught in Barbeaux. As a result, the range of exercises that may be performed on the devices of the current art is severely limited.
25 While hand grips have been developed which do allow for multi-directional arrn movement, they have no assistive mechanism, thereby limiting the ability of the average exercise participant to effectively use these devices to complete the kneel-prone-kneel exercise motion. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,892,305 teaches a hand grip comprising a platform having a plurality of peripherally spaced caster wheels. Further examples of 3o mufti-directional hand grips are taught in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,134,584;
U.S. Patent to No. 5,261,866 to Mattox teaches a single wheel rotatably mounted on an axle with a pair of handgrips telescopically mounted on the axle. A length of elastic tubing is mounted to each end of the axle and has a pair of pads upon which a user may stand or kneel when using the exercise wheel. The elastic tubing provides resistance during the push phase of the exercise and assistance during the pull phase, aiding the user to return to the starting i5 position.
All of the current designs for assistive kneel-prone-kneel exercise machines, whether using tracks or exercise wheels as described above, have a significant limitation: they are limited to a linear, straight forward and straight back movement. This occurs because (i) 20 the user has to place both hands on a single device; and/or (ii) the wheels of the device are designed for linear movement, for example, as taught in Barbeaux. As a result, the range of exercises that may be performed on the devices of the current art is severely limited.
25 While hand grips have been developed which do allow for multi-directional arrn movement, they have no assistive mechanism, thereby limiting the ability of the average exercise participant to effectively use these devices to complete the kneel-prone-kneel exercise motion. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,892,305 teaches a hand grip comprising a platform having a plurality of peripherally spaced caster wheels. Further examples of 3o mufti-directional hand grips are taught in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,134,584;
3,622,152; and 5,632,707. Without an assistive mechanism, not only is the linear, straight forward and straight back kneel-prone-kneel motion extremely difficult for the average participant to complete, but attempting any mufti-directional, circular type arm motion while performing the kneel-prone-kneel exercise is close to impossible given the far greater level of strength required to return to the starting kneeling position. The ability of the average exercise participant to effectively use these un-assisted mufti-directional hand grips is thus undermined.
It is therefore an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide an inexpensive exercise device having both mufti-directional, individual hand grips and an 1o assistive mechanism for performing both linear and mufti-directional arm movements while performing the kneel-prone-kneel exercise.
It is a further object of an embodiment of this invention to provide an assistive exercise device that facilitates a broad range of linear and circular arm movements while performing the kneel-prone-kneel movement, thus expanding the usual range of muscles engaged and exercised during the kneel-prone-kneel motion beyond just the abdominal muscles to include the arm, shoulder, chest and back muscles. This allows the user to increase abdominal strength while simultaneously increasing upper body strength.
2o Various aspects of the invention address these objects, but not all aspects of the invention necessarily address all such objects simultaneously. Other objects of the invention will be apparent from the description that follows.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is directed to an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface. The exercise apparatus comprises a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, and a pair of biasing members. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a 3o user's hands and rolling means. The biasing members have first and second connecting ends for connecting to the platforms and to the kneeling pad. The biasing members connect to the platforms at a connection point. Preferably the rolling means comprise a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
The upper surface of the platform of the exercise apparatus detailed above is rotatable in relation to the connection point between the biasing member and the platform.
In another aspect, the exercise apparatus further comprises a pair of footstraps connected to the kneeling pad. The footstraps are adjustable.
1o In another aspect, each of the platforms has a perimeter edge and an arcuate opening defined along a portion of the perimeter edge to which a biasing member is releasably connectable.
In another aspect, the exercise apparatus detailed above further comprises an arcuate guide member connected to the platform, an arcuate opening being defined between the platform and the guide member. The biasing member is releasably connectable to the guide member.
In yet another aspect, the platfornn further comprises a top section and a bottom section, 2o with the rolling means, such as a plurality of rotatable caster wheels, connected to the bottom section.
In another aspect, the top section is rotatable in relation to the bottom section, the connecting ends of the biasing members being releasably connectable to the bottom section.
In another embodiment, the invention is directed to an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, and a biasing member. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a user's 3o hands and rolling means, such as a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
The biasing member is adapted to connect the platforms to the kneeling pad and to provide resistance when the platforms are moved in a direction away from the kneeling pad and to provide assistance when the platforms are moved in a direction towards the kneeling pad. The exercise apparatus may further comprise a pair of footstraps connected to the kneeling pad.
In yet a further embodiment, the invention is directed to a kit for an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface. The kit comprises a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, a biasing member and a pair of footstraps. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and is equipped with rolling means.
Other aspects of the invention will be appreciated by reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment and to the claims that follow.
1s BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be described by reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment and to the drawings in which:
2o Fig. 1 is a top plan view of the preferred embodiment of an exercise apparatus according to the invention;
Fig. 2 is a top plan view of one of the hand-rollers shown in Fig. 1;
25 Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of one of the hand-rollers of Fig.
1;
Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the hand-roller of Fig. 2;
Fig. 4B is a top view of the wheel base of the hand-roller shown in Fig. 4A
Fig. 5 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand-roller;
It is therefore an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide an inexpensive exercise device having both mufti-directional, individual hand grips and an 1o assistive mechanism for performing both linear and mufti-directional arm movements while performing the kneel-prone-kneel exercise.
It is a further object of an embodiment of this invention to provide an assistive exercise device that facilitates a broad range of linear and circular arm movements while performing the kneel-prone-kneel movement, thus expanding the usual range of muscles engaged and exercised during the kneel-prone-kneel motion beyond just the abdominal muscles to include the arm, shoulder, chest and back muscles. This allows the user to increase abdominal strength while simultaneously increasing upper body strength.
2o Various aspects of the invention address these objects, but not all aspects of the invention necessarily address all such objects simultaneously. Other objects of the invention will be apparent from the description that follows.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is directed to an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface. The exercise apparatus comprises a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, and a pair of biasing members. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a 3o user's hands and rolling means. The biasing members have first and second connecting ends for connecting to the platforms and to the kneeling pad. The biasing members connect to the platforms at a connection point. Preferably the rolling means comprise a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
The upper surface of the platform of the exercise apparatus detailed above is rotatable in relation to the connection point between the biasing member and the platform.
In another aspect, the exercise apparatus further comprises a pair of footstraps connected to the kneeling pad. The footstraps are adjustable.
1o In another aspect, each of the platforms has a perimeter edge and an arcuate opening defined along a portion of the perimeter edge to which a biasing member is releasably connectable.
In another aspect, the exercise apparatus detailed above further comprises an arcuate guide member connected to the platform, an arcuate opening being defined between the platform and the guide member. The biasing member is releasably connectable to the guide member.
In yet another aspect, the platfornn further comprises a top section and a bottom section, 2o with the rolling means, such as a plurality of rotatable caster wheels, connected to the bottom section.
In another aspect, the top section is rotatable in relation to the bottom section, the connecting ends of the biasing members being releasably connectable to the bottom section.
In another embodiment, the invention is directed to an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, and a biasing member. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a user's 3o hands and rolling means, such as a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
The biasing member is adapted to connect the platforms to the kneeling pad and to provide resistance when the platforms are moved in a direction away from the kneeling pad and to provide assistance when the platforms are moved in a direction towards the kneeling pad. The exercise apparatus may further comprise a pair of footstraps connected to the kneeling pad.
In yet a further embodiment, the invention is directed to a kit for an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface. The kit comprises a pair of platforms, a kneeling pad, a biasing member and a pair of footstraps. Each platform has an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and is equipped with rolling means.
Other aspects of the invention will be appreciated by reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment and to the claims that follow.
1s BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be described by reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment and to the drawings in which:
2o Fig. 1 is a top plan view of the preferred embodiment of an exercise apparatus according to the invention;
Fig. 2 is a top plan view of one of the hand-rollers shown in Fig. 1;
25 Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of one of the hand-rollers of Fig.
1;
Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the hand-roller of Fig. 2;
Fig. 4B is a top view of the wheel base of the hand-roller shown in Fig. 4A
Fig. 5 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand-roller;
Fig. 6A is a schematic view of a user using the exercise apparatus shown in Fig.
1;
Fig. 6B is a further schematic view of the user using the exercise apparatus shown in Fig. 6A;
Fig. ? is a side view of a user using the exercise apparatus shown in Fig. 1;
and to Fig. 8 is a bottom view of a rolling connector according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The preferred embodiment of an assisted hand-roller exercise apparatus generally referred to by reference numeral 10 is best illustrated in Fig. 1. Two individual hand-rollers 2, 4 may be connected by way of biasing members such as elastic cords 6, 8 to a kneeling pad 12, which in turn may be connected by way of straps 14, 16 to two foot 2o holders 18. The assisted hand-roller exercise apparatus may be used on a supporting surface such as a floor in order to perform a wide variety of abdominal and upper body exercises.
Each roller 2, 4 comprises a platform 20 having multi-directional rolling means as illustrated best in Figs 3. Preferably the rolling means comprise three or more peripherally spaced, rotatable caster wheels 22, however it is contemplated that other rolling means such as a mufti-directional ball assembly would be satisfactory.
The caster wheels 22 are fully rotatable, thereby permitting movement of the roller in any direction along the supporting surface. With the wheels 22 seated on the supporting surface, the 3o height of the top of the platform 20 above the supporting surface preferably does not exceed six centimeters. Because the roller has a low center of gravity and the wheels are located about the periphery, the possibility of the roller tipping is minimized.
Preferably, the platform 20 has a grip or upper surface 24 having a smooth, convex surface adapted to fit the palm of an open human hand. Preferably, when viewed from above, the upper surface 24 appears substantially circular; however the upper surface 24 need only be shaped so as to accommodate the user's hand. Preferably, straps 26 are provided to secure the roller to the user's limb. The straps may be elasticized or otherwise adjustable, for example with a hook and loop connection, so as to l0 accommodate a variety of different sized users.
Biasing members 5, 8 are attached to rollers 2, 4. Preferably the platform 20 of the roller has an arcuate opening 30 about the perimeter to which the biasing members may be attached, the point at which the biasing member is in contact with the platform being the connection point. The other end of each biasing member 6, 8 is attached to a kneeling pad 12. The kneeling pad 12 has an outer shell enclosing cushioning such as a foam or gel. The kneeling pad 12 has a number of attachment points 32 in order to allow the user to select the best position to attach the biasing member depending on the exercises to be completed. It is also contemplated that one continuous biasing member could be used, 2o with one end of the biasing member attached to one of the hand-rollers, the other end of the biasing member attached to the other hand-roller and the middle of the biasing member connected to the kneeling pad. This set up could also be reversed, with the ends of the biasing member attached to the kneeling pad and the middle portion of the biasing member connecting to each of the hand-rollers. This set up provides an added resistance/assistance as between the hand-rollers themselves.
Any type of biasing member provided between the kneeling pad and the rollers to resist the movement of the roller away from the kneeling pad and to assist the user in returning to the kneeling position is sufficient. Preferably, the biasing members 6, 8 are cords made of elastic tubing having a connector such as clip 34 on the end. However it is also contemplated that other types of products and connectors may also be used as a biasing member provided simply that they provide resistance and assistance and axe capable of being attached to both the roller and the kneeling pad. These could range from, but are not limited to, other elastic attachments to cables with spring pulley systems.
A variety of biasing members having different resistive/assistive qualities can be used in order to allow different sized users to be properly assisted and to allow for different exercise requirements. As the rollers travel away from the kneeling pad, the elastic cables 6, 8 extend, thus providing the energy needed to return the rollers to the starting position. As a user develops additional strength through exercising with the apparatus, to they may reduce the resistive/assistive strength of the biasing member being used.
Once connected to a roller, the clip 34 is able to slide along the arcuate opening 30 as necessary so as to maintain constant resistance against the roller, while allowing the user to maintain a preferred hand position throughout the range of motion of any exercise.
Rotation of the upper surface 24 relative to the connection point of the biasing member to the hand-roller is important. Otherwise, a user moving through a circular range of motion would either experience unequal resistance or unnecessary strain to his or her hands, wrists and forearms as a result of the biasing force exerted by the biasing member. In other words, if the biasing member were connected to the roller at a single point and the 2o upper surface 24 was not capable of rotating in relation thereto, the biasing force exerted on the roller would act to force it to adopt the position where the connection point aligns with the direction of the biasing force. A user would have to either use their forearm muscles to overcome this with consequent strain to the hand, wrist and forearm or be forced to twist his or her hands to allow the connection to always be aligned with the direction of the biasing force.
The kneeling pad is connected by way of straps 14, 16 to two foot holders 18.
These foot holders provide separate purchases for each of the user's feet. Preferably, the straps are adjustable to accommodate users of different sizes, the adjustment being made in the area 3o referred to by reference numeral 15. The user kneels on the pads, and places his or her feet in each foot holder to prevent the kneeling pad from slipping when the elastic cords are at full extension. In operation, it has been found that when the user is extended to the fully prone position, the user's weight rnay be insufficient to properly anchor the kneepad without the assistance of the foot holders. In the fully prone position, the elastic cords exert a large pulling force on the kneepad and the amount of weight placed on the kneepad by a user is reduced. The combined effect may result in the kneepad slipping out from under the user's knees, thereby becoming a projectile that could injure the user or at the very least disrupting the user's exercise routine. Therefore, the use of an adjustable foot purchase enhances the safety of the product. For advanced users, it also allows the exercise apparatus to be used in a pushup position in addition to the customary l0 kneel-prone-kneel position.
It is also contemplated that adjustable straps could also be used to connect the biasing members to the kneeling pad so as to provide an additional level of adjustment to the amount of resistance/assistance provided by a given biasing member.
The preferred embodiment of a hand-roller will now be discussed in greater detail. As illustrated best in Fig. 3, a wheel base 28 having three equally spaced, rotatable wheels 22 forms the lower section of the platform 20. Preferably base 28 is made of metal and has a depressed central portion 27 having a hole 29 defined therein. A pair of flanges 40 2o project radially from the wheel base 28, each one in radial alignment with a respective one of said wheels 22. Attached to the top of the wheel base 28 above each wheel 22 is a compressible support pad 42, as best shown in Figs. 4A and 4B.
The top section 21 of the platform is preferably made of plastic, however grip 24 may also have a rubber or foam coating or the like in order to provide added comfort to a user.
Two radially spaced slits 31 are sized and positioned to allow flanges 40 to be inserted therein. Lower surface 23 is adapted to be seated on the compressible support pads 42 of the wheel base 28. A cylindrical projection 41 has a threaded opening 43 defined therein.
The cylindrical projection is adapted to be seated in the depressed central portion 27 of 3o the wheel base 28. Once flanges 40 have been inserted into spaced slits 31 and top section 21 is seated on the wheel base 28, a connector such as screw 44 is inserted through hole 29 and threaded into threaded opening 43 so as to securely attach the wheel base 28 to top section 21.
An arcuate guide member 45 is connected to the flanges 40, preferably by screws, thereby defining an arcuate opening 30 between the guide member 45 and the perimeter of the upper surface 24. Anchoring the guide member 45 to the wheel base 28 increases the strength of the platform.
While the preferred embodiment of the hand-roller has been described in detail, it is also 1o contemplated that other variations are possible. For example, the platform may be formed from molded plastic having an arcuate opening defined along a perimeter edge of the platform. The platform could also have individual wheels connected directly to the top section.
An alternative embodiment of a hand-roller is shown in Fig. 5. In this embodiment, the top section of the platform rotates in relation to the wheel base. This is shown in Fig. 5, where an alternative hand-roller 50 has a top section 54 having an arcuate opening 56 defined along a perimeter edge 58. A flange connector 52 projects from the wheel base (not shown) through the arcuate opening 56 for connection with clip 34. The top surface 54 is adapted to rotate in relation to the wheel base and conn~tor 52. The connector 52 could also be located below top surface 54 so that no arcuate opening is necessary.
In order to improve the slideability along the arcuate opening/guide member, the platform may be equipped with a rolling connector 60 as shown in Fig. 8. The rolling connector 60 is equipped with wheels 62 that track the path of the arcuate guide member 45 when it is connected in rolling engagement to the arcuate guide member 45 or perimeter edge 58 of a hand-roller. This allows for smoother rotation of the platform in relation to the connection point between the platform and the biasing member. An opening 66 in the side wall of the rolling connector 60 is sized to accommodate the guide member 45 or 3o perimeter edge 58. The clip 34 of a biasing member connects to end 68 having opening 64 defined therein.
With his or her feet securely in the foot straps, and knees on the kneepad, the user then places his or her hands on the rollers, securing the straps, and rolls the roller in any direction away from the pad until the user is in the prone position. The user then rolls the rollers in a chosen direction (typically linear or circular movements) eventually returning to the starting position.
In order to perform a traditional kneel-prone-kneel exercise, the user begins in a kneeling position with each foot in a foot holder, each hand on a separate roller and arms generally 1o near the vertical position. Next, the hands push the rollers forward to a stopping position with the body almost prone as shown in Fig. 7. During the forward movement, resistance builds up in the elastic cords. Next, the user reverses the movement. As the user .reverses the movement, the elastic cords provide assistance by pulling the rollers back towards the starting position, thereby assisting the user. The distance traversed by the roller in combination with the elastic resistance of the biasing members determines the maximum return force.
Figs. 6A and 6B illustrate a "butterfly" exercise in which the device is used to complete multi-directional arm movements which engage the abdominal, arm, shoulder, chest and 2o back muscles. The user begins in a kneeling position with each foot in a foot holder, each hand on a separate roller and arms generally near the vertical position. The user then moves both hands forward, until in an almost prone position referred to as "A". The user's hands then follow a circular path in the direction of the arrows, continuing the wide, circular motion until the rollers arrive at the position marked "B".
Finally, the user returns to the starting position marked as position "C". During the forward movement, resistance builds up in the elastic cords which then assists the user in completing the circular return movement - a movement that would otherwise be particularly challenging to complete.
3o It will be appreciated that many different exercises can be done with various combinations of the devices.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the preferred and alternative embodiments have been described in some detail but that certain modifications may be practiced without departing from the principles of the invention.
1;
Fig. 6B is a further schematic view of the user using the exercise apparatus shown in Fig. 6A;
Fig. ? is a side view of a user using the exercise apparatus shown in Fig. 1;
and to Fig. 8 is a bottom view of a rolling connector according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The preferred embodiment of an assisted hand-roller exercise apparatus generally referred to by reference numeral 10 is best illustrated in Fig. 1. Two individual hand-rollers 2, 4 may be connected by way of biasing members such as elastic cords 6, 8 to a kneeling pad 12, which in turn may be connected by way of straps 14, 16 to two foot 2o holders 18. The assisted hand-roller exercise apparatus may be used on a supporting surface such as a floor in order to perform a wide variety of abdominal and upper body exercises.
Each roller 2, 4 comprises a platform 20 having multi-directional rolling means as illustrated best in Figs 3. Preferably the rolling means comprise three or more peripherally spaced, rotatable caster wheels 22, however it is contemplated that other rolling means such as a mufti-directional ball assembly would be satisfactory.
The caster wheels 22 are fully rotatable, thereby permitting movement of the roller in any direction along the supporting surface. With the wheels 22 seated on the supporting surface, the 3o height of the top of the platform 20 above the supporting surface preferably does not exceed six centimeters. Because the roller has a low center of gravity and the wheels are located about the periphery, the possibility of the roller tipping is minimized.
Preferably, the platform 20 has a grip or upper surface 24 having a smooth, convex surface adapted to fit the palm of an open human hand. Preferably, when viewed from above, the upper surface 24 appears substantially circular; however the upper surface 24 need only be shaped so as to accommodate the user's hand. Preferably, straps 26 are provided to secure the roller to the user's limb. The straps may be elasticized or otherwise adjustable, for example with a hook and loop connection, so as to l0 accommodate a variety of different sized users.
Biasing members 5, 8 are attached to rollers 2, 4. Preferably the platform 20 of the roller has an arcuate opening 30 about the perimeter to which the biasing members may be attached, the point at which the biasing member is in contact with the platform being the connection point. The other end of each biasing member 6, 8 is attached to a kneeling pad 12. The kneeling pad 12 has an outer shell enclosing cushioning such as a foam or gel. The kneeling pad 12 has a number of attachment points 32 in order to allow the user to select the best position to attach the biasing member depending on the exercises to be completed. It is also contemplated that one continuous biasing member could be used, 2o with one end of the biasing member attached to one of the hand-rollers, the other end of the biasing member attached to the other hand-roller and the middle of the biasing member connected to the kneeling pad. This set up could also be reversed, with the ends of the biasing member attached to the kneeling pad and the middle portion of the biasing member connecting to each of the hand-rollers. This set up provides an added resistance/assistance as between the hand-rollers themselves.
Any type of biasing member provided between the kneeling pad and the rollers to resist the movement of the roller away from the kneeling pad and to assist the user in returning to the kneeling position is sufficient. Preferably, the biasing members 6, 8 are cords made of elastic tubing having a connector such as clip 34 on the end. However it is also contemplated that other types of products and connectors may also be used as a biasing member provided simply that they provide resistance and assistance and axe capable of being attached to both the roller and the kneeling pad. These could range from, but are not limited to, other elastic attachments to cables with spring pulley systems.
A variety of biasing members having different resistive/assistive qualities can be used in order to allow different sized users to be properly assisted and to allow for different exercise requirements. As the rollers travel away from the kneeling pad, the elastic cables 6, 8 extend, thus providing the energy needed to return the rollers to the starting position. As a user develops additional strength through exercising with the apparatus, to they may reduce the resistive/assistive strength of the biasing member being used.
Once connected to a roller, the clip 34 is able to slide along the arcuate opening 30 as necessary so as to maintain constant resistance against the roller, while allowing the user to maintain a preferred hand position throughout the range of motion of any exercise.
Rotation of the upper surface 24 relative to the connection point of the biasing member to the hand-roller is important. Otherwise, a user moving through a circular range of motion would either experience unequal resistance or unnecessary strain to his or her hands, wrists and forearms as a result of the biasing force exerted by the biasing member. In other words, if the biasing member were connected to the roller at a single point and the 2o upper surface 24 was not capable of rotating in relation thereto, the biasing force exerted on the roller would act to force it to adopt the position where the connection point aligns with the direction of the biasing force. A user would have to either use their forearm muscles to overcome this with consequent strain to the hand, wrist and forearm or be forced to twist his or her hands to allow the connection to always be aligned with the direction of the biasing force.
The kneeling pad is connected by way of straps 14, 16 to two foot holders 18.
These foot holders provide separate purchases for each of the user's feet. Preferably, the straps are adjustable to accommodate users of different sizes, the adjustment being made in the area 3o referred to by reference numeral 15. The user kneels on the pads, and places his or her feet in each foot holder to prevent the kneeling pad from slipping when the elastic cords are at full extension. In operation, it has been found that when the user is extended to the fully prone position, the user's weight rnay be insufficient to properly anchor the kneepad without the assistance of the foot holders. In the fully prone position, the elastic cords exert a large pulling force on the kneepad and the amount of weight placed on the kneepad by a user is reduced. The combined effect may result in the kneepad slipping out from under the user's knees, thereby becoming a projectile that could injure the user or at the very least disrupting the user's exercise routine. Therefore, the use of an adjustable foot purchase enhances the safety of the product. For advanced users, it also allows the exercise apparatus to be used in a pushup position in addition to the customary l0 kneel-prone-kneel position.
It is also contemplated that adjustable straps could also be used to connect the biasing members to the kneeling pad so as to provide an additional level of adjustment to the amount of resistance/assistance provided by a given biasing member.
The preferred embodiment of a hand-roller will now be discussed in greater detail. As illustrated best in Fig. 3, a wheel base 28 having three equally spaced, rotatable wheels 22 forms the lower section of the platform 20. Preferably base 28 is made of metal and has a depressed central portion 27 having a hole 29 defined therein. A pair of flanges 40 2o project radially from the wheel base 28, each one in radial alignment with a respective one of said wheels 22. Attached to the top of the wheel base 28 above each wheel 22 is a compressible support pad 42, as best shown in Figs. 4A and 4B.
The top section 21 of the platform is preferably made of plastic, however grip 24 may also have a rubber or foam coating or the like in order to provide added comfort to a user.
Two radially spaced slits 31 are sized and positioned to allow flanges 40 to be inserted therein. Lower surface 23 is adapted to be seated on the compressible support pads 42 of the wheel base 28. A cylindrical projection 41 has a threaded opening 43 defined therein.
The cylindrical projection is adapted to be seated in the depressed central portion 27 of 3o the wheel base 28. Once flanges 40 have been inserted into spaced slits 31 and top section 21 is seated on the wheel base 28, a connector such as screw 44 is inserted through hole 29 and threaded into threaded opening 43 so as to securely attach the wheel base 28 to top section 21.
An arcuate guide member 45 is connected to the flanges 40, preferably by screws, thereby defining an arcuate opening 30 between the guide member 45 and the perimeter of the upper surface 24. Anchoring the guide member 45 to the wheel base 28 increases the strength of the platform.
While the preferred embodiment of the hand-roller has been described in detail, it is also 1o contemplated that other variations are possible. For example, the platform may be formed from molded plastic having an arcuate opening defined along a perimeter edge of the platform. The platform could also have individual wheels connected directly to the top section.
An alternative embodiment of a hand-roller is shown in Fig. 5. In this embodiment, the top section of the platform rotates in relation to the wheel base. This is shown in Fig. 5, where an alternative hand-roller 50 has a top section 54 having an arcuate opening 56 defined along a perimeter edge 58. A flange connector 52 projects from the wheel base (not shown) through the arcuate opening 56 for connection with clip 34. The top surface 54 is adapted to rotate in relation to the wheel base and conn~tor 52. The connector 52 could also be located below top surface 54 so that no arcuate opening is necessary.
In order to improve the slideability along the arcuate opening/guide member, the platform may be equipped with a rolling connector 60 as shown in Fig. 8. The rolling connector 60 is equipped with wheels 62 that track the path of the arcuate guide member 45 when it is connected in rolling engagement to the arcuate guide member 45 or perimeter edge 58 of a hand-roller. This allows for smoother rotation of the platform in relation to the connection point between the platform and the biasing member. An opening 66 in the side wall of the rolling connector 60 is sized to accommodate the guide member 45 or 3o perimeter edge 58. The clip 34 of a biasing member connects to end 68 having opening 64 defined therein.
With his or her feet securely in the foot straps, and knees on the kneepad, the user then places his or her hands on the rollers, securing the straps, and rolls the roller in any direction away from the pad until the user is in the prone position. The user then rolls the rollers in a chosen direction (typically linear or circular movements) eventually returning to the starting position.
In order to perform a traditional kneel-prone-kneel exercise, the user begins in a kneeling position with each foot in a foot holder, each hand on a separate roller and arms generally 1o near the vertical position. Next, the hands push the rollers forward to a stopping position with the body almost prone as shown in Fig. 7. During the forward movement, resistance builds up in the elastic cords. Next, the user reverses the movement. As the user .reverses the movement, the elastic cords provide assistance by pulling the rollers back towards the starting position, thereby assisting the user. The distance traversed by the roller in combination with the elastic resistance of the biasing members determines the maximum return force.
Figs. 6A and 6B illustrate a "butterfly" exercise in which the device is used to complete multi-directional arm movements which engage the abdominal, arm, shoulder, chest and 2o back muscles. The user begins in a kneeling position with each foot in a foot holder, each hand on a separate roller and arms generally near the vertical position. The user then moves both hands forward, until in an almost prone position referred to as "A". The user's hands then follow a circular path in the direction of the arrows, continuing the wide, circular motion until the rollers arrive at the position marked "B".
Finally, the user returns to the starting position marked as position "C". During the forward movement, resistance builds up in the elastic cords which then assists the user in completing the circular return movement - a movement that would otherwise be particularly challenging to complete.
3o It will be appreciated that many different exercises can be done with various combinations of the devices.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the preferred and alternative embodiments have been described in some detail but that certain modifications may be practiced without departing from the principles of the invention.
Claims (19)
1. An exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising:
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a pair of biasing members, each biasing member having a first and second connecting end; and wherein said first connecting ends of said biasing members being releasably connectable to said kneeling pad and the second connecting end of one of said pair of biasing members being connected to one of said pair of platforms and the second connecting end of the other one of said pair of biasing members being connected to the other of said pair of platforms.
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a pair of biasing members, each biasing member having a first and second connecting end; and wherein said first connecting ends of said biasing members being releasably connectable to said kneeling pad and the second connecting end of one of said pair of biasing members being connected to one of said pair of platforms and the second connecting end of the other one of said pair of biasing members being connected to the other of said pair of platforms.
2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein said biasing members connect to said platforms at a connection point.
3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a pair of footstraps connected to said kneeling pad.
4. The exercise apparatus of claim 2 wherein said upper surface of said platform is rotatable in relation to said connection point between said biasing member and said platform.
5. The exercise apparatus of claim 4 wherein each of said platforms has a perimeter edge and an arcuate opening defined along a portion of said perimeter edge.
6. The exercise apparatus of claim 4 further comprising an arcuate guide member connected to said platform, an arcuate opening being defined between said platform and said guide member.
7. The exercise apparatus of claim 6 wherein said biasing member is releasably connectable to said guide member.
8. The exercise apparatus of claim 3 wherein said footstraps are adjustable.
9. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein said rolling means comprise a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
10. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein said platform further comprises a top section and a bottom section, said rolling means comprising a plurality of rotatable caster wheels connected to said bottom section.
11. The exercise apparatus of claim 10 wherein said top section is rotatable in relation to said bottom section.
12. The exercise apparatus of claim 11 wherein said first connecting ends of said biasing members are releasably connectable to said bottom section.
13. The exercise apparatus of claim 5 further comprising a rolling connector, said rolling connector having at least one wheel and being connected in rolling engagement with said perimeter edge.
14 14. The exercise apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a rolling connector, said rolling connector having at least one wheel and being connected in rolling engagement with said arcuate guide member.
15. An exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising:
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a biasing member; and wherein said biasing member is adapted to connect said platforms to said kneeling pad and to provide resistance when said platforms are moved in a direction away from said kneeling pad and to provide assistance when said platforms are moved in a direction towards said kneeling pad.
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a biasing member; and wherein said biasing member is adapted to connect said platforms to said kneeling pad and to provide resistance when said platforms are moved in a direction away from said kneeling pad and to provide assistance when said platforms are moved in a direction towards said kneeling pad.
16. The exercise apparatus of claim 13 wherein said rolling means comprise a plurality of rotatable caster wheels.
17. The exercise apparatus of claim 14 further comprising a pair of footstraps connected to said kneeling pad.
18. A kit for an exercise apparatus for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising:
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a biasing member; and a pair of footstraps.
a pair of platforms, each platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means;
a kneeling pad;
a biasing member; and a pair of footstraps.
19. A hand-roller for use in weight bearing exercises on a support surface comprising a platform having an upper surface for supporting a user's hands and rolling means, said platform having an arcuate guide member attached thereto.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2434904 CA2434904A1 (en) | 2003-07-16 | 2003-07-16 | Hand-roller exercise apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2434904 CA2434904A1 (en) | 2003-07-16 | 2003-07-16 | Hand-roller exercise apparatus |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2434904A1 true CA2434904A1 (en) | 2005-01-16 |
Family
ID=34069895
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2434904 Abandoned CA2434904A1 (en) | 2003-07-16 | 2003-07-16 | Hand-roller exercise apparatus |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2434904A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102961855A (en) * | 2012-10-26 | 2013-03-13 | 童弋康 | Multifunctional body builder |
| WO2022204748A1 (en) * | 2021-04-01 | 2022-10-06 | Shannon Peter Hinton | Exercise sled |
| US11576837B2 (en) | 2019-10-03 | 2023-02-14 | Jfxd Trx Acq Llc | Multi-zonal roller and method of use thereof |
-
2003
- 2003-07-16 CA CA 2434904 patent/CA2434904A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102961855A (en) * | 2012-10-26 | 2013-03-13 | 童弋康 | Multifunctional body builder |
| CN102961855B (en) * | 2012-10-26 | 2015-05-13 | 童弋康 | Multifunctional body builder |
| US11576837B2 (en) | 2019-10-03 | 2023-02-14 | Jfxd Trx Acq Llc | Multi-zonal roller and method of use thereof |
| WO2022204748A1 (en) * | 2021-04-01 | 2022-10-06 | Shannon Peter Hinton | Exercise sled |
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