Patent ID: 7270626
Filing Date: 2007-09-18
Classification: A63B

Abstract:
1. An exercise device comprising (a) a frame defining a transverse axis, (b) a guide rail, (c) a transversely extending drive shaft rotatably attached to the frame and extending along the transverse axis, (d) first and second extension elements extending away from the transverse axis and fixedly attached to the drive shaft for unitary rotation with the drive shaft, (e) first and second foot links each having (i) first and second ends, (ii) a first end portion pivotally attached to an extension element at a first pivot point spaced from the transverse axis for travel along a closed loop path relative to the transverse axis, and (iii) a second end portion supported by the guide rail for permitting longitudinal travel of the second end portion of the foot link along a reciprocating path, (f) first and second foot supports supported on the first and second foot links respectively, for traveling in a forward and backward direction along a closed loop path relative to the transverse axis wherein the closed loop path defines a stride height, (g) a means effective for sensing the direction of travel of the foot supports along the closed loop path as between the forward and the backward directions, and (h) a means for automatically adjusting the stride height of the closed loop path traveled by the foot supports based upon the sensed direction of travel of the foot supports.