Abstract:
A non-gravity-type resistance exercise apparatus that includes a novel pulley-carrying exercise arm that can be incrementally rotated in a novel manner between high, low and numerous intermediate exercise positions to enable the proper performance of a number of different exercises. The apparatus includes a compact, self-contained, selectorized resistance module that embodies a plurality of discrete, elongated elastomeric cords that can be quickly and easily selectively coupled with the body-engaging means to provide precise resistance to the performance of several different kinds of exercises.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates generally to a body exercising apparatus and, more particularly, to a compact, multi-purpose exercise machine for accomplishing a number of progressive resistance-type exercises using a resistance unit, which provides a variable resistance to the performance of the exercises. 
   2. Discussion of the Prior Art 
   The therapeutic value of progressive resistance exercises has long been recognized. Exercising muscles against progressively increasing resistance not only results in added strength and endurance in the muscles, but also in the improvement of neuromuscular coordination and in a more efficient functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. 
   In the past, various types of progressive weight training machines have been suggested. Among these prior art devices are those described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,339,125 issued to Uyeda, et al., U.S. Pat. No. Re. 28,006 issued to Marcy, and in U.S. Pat. No. 3,912,263 issued to Yatso. 
   Typically the prior art exercise apparatus uses one or more weights selected from a stack of weights to provide gravity resistance to the movement of a carriage or other body-engaging means. Such apparatus is typically quite bulky and difficult to use in confined areas having limited ceiling heights. Further, the prior art devices are generally difficult to transport and store. 
   In an attempt to make exercise apparatus lighter and less bulky, easier to use and more versatile, several exercise devices have been suggested which use elastomeric members rather than weights to provide non-gravity resistance to the performance of the exercises. One of the earliest of such devices is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,072,309 issued to Wilson. The latter device uses circular spring cords, such as aircraft shock cords, to resist movement of a lever arm, which is pivotally connected to an upright structural member. Another such device is disclosed in Olschansky, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,039,092 issued Aug. 13, 1991. This patent concerns a multi-exercise system that includes a rotational-actuation mechanism, which is adapted for bi-directional rotation about a singular axis and is coupled to an upper carriage comprising a resistive force mechanism. The rotational-actuation mechanism provides an initial rotative displacement in either of two opposite directions, which is transformed into a linear displacement of the resistive force-loading members. The rotational-actuation mechanism includes a sprocket wheel whose rotative axis is displaced from the sprocket wheel center for compensating for the change in load force as the elastic cord resistance members of the device are stretched. 
   Following commercialization of the Wilson and Olschansky devices, several other types of exercising devices have been suggested which use elastomeric resistance imparting elements, including solid rubber resistance-type units. The prior art elastomeric cord or solid rubber resistance-type units are, of course, much lighter than the solid weight type units, but are still quite bulky and difficult to use and store in areas having limited ceiling height. Another drawback of many of the elastomeric resistance-type exercise apparatus is that, in most cases, the resistance elements must be placed on each side of the lifting mechanism to maintain a balanced resistance. Further the prior art resistance elements tend to crack and fatigue making them susceptible to catastrophic failure. Additionally, varying the resistance in many of the prior art elastomeric resistance-type units involves adding or subtracting individual elastomeric elements to the apparatus. This can be both cumbersome and time consuming. Further, since the elastomeric resistance elements are typically separate units, they can be lost or misplaced and frequently are strewn about the apparatus in a manner to create substantial tripping hazards. 
   One of the most successful of the prior art devices that use elastomeric resistance-imparting elements is the device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,552,784 issued to the present inventor. This unique device includes a highly novel, non-gravity, self-contained selectorized resistance module that is made up of a number of elastomeric cords which are assembled together into a compact resistance module which offers variable resistance from a single connection point on the module thereby always providing balanced resistance. A novel selector means permits a selected number of the elastomeric cords of the resistance module to be quickly and easily interconnected with the body-engaging means of the apparatus to provide precisely variable resistance to the performance of the given exercise. The present invention is an improvement of this earlier apparatus. 
   The device also includes a novel, non-gravity, self-contained selectorized resistance module that is made up of a number of elastomeric cords which are assembled together into a compact resistance module which offers variable resistance from a single connection point on the module thereby always providing balanced resistance. A novel selector means permits a selected number of the elastomeric cords of the resistance module to be quickly and easily interconnected with the body-engaging means of the apparatus to provide precisely variable resistance to the performance of the given exercise. As will be appreciated from the discussion that follows, the present invention is an improvement of this earlier apparatus. 
   The apparatus of the present invention overcomes many of the drawbacks of the prior art exercise devices by providing an apparatus that includes a compact basic supporting frame to which a novel pulley-carrying exercise arm is rotatably connected. The exercise arm incrementally rotates between a high latissimus exercise position, various intermediate positions and a low exercise position. This unique feature permits the proper performance of a number of different upper body, arm and leg exercises. The apparatus of the invention can be used with various types of resistant modules including free weights, selectorized weights and elastomeric cord-type resistance modules. 
   In one form of the apparatus of the present invention the resistance module comprises a novel, non-gravity, self-contained selectorized resistance module that is somewhat similar to, but a substantial improvement over, that disclosed in the inventor&#39;s earlier patent. This novel module is made up of a number of longer elastomeric cords that are assembled together into a compact resistance module. A unique selector means permits a selected number of the elastomeric cords of the resistance module to be quickly and easily interconnected with the body-engaging means of the apparatus to provide precisely variable resistance to the performance of the given exercise. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved, non-gravity type resistance exercise apparatus that is small, lightweight, highly versatile and easy-to-use. More particularly, it is an object of the invention to provide an exercising machine that includes a novel pulley-carrying exercise arm that can be incrementally rotated in a novel manner between high, low and numerous intermediate exercise positions to enable the proper performance of a number of different exercises. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the aforementioned character in which the novel pulley-carrying exercise arm permits a full range of motion and can be used with a variety of different resistance modules, including free weight modules, selectorized weight modules and elastomeric cord-type resistance modules. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the character described that includes a compact, self-contained, selectorized resistance module that embodies a plurality of discrete, elongated elastomeric cords that can be quickly and easily selectively coupled with the body-engaging means to provide precise resistance to the performance of several different kinds of exercises. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the type described that includes a compact, self-contained, selectorized resistance module that uniquely allows for high or low speed movements with a smooth resistance. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the class described which includes a supporting frame of limited height to which the pulley carrying exercise arm is rotatably connected. The pulley arm is readily movable by the trainee from a raised overhead, latissimus exercise position into a number of intermediate positions and then into a lowered position and can be conveniently locked in a selected position. A body-engaging means, such as a handlebar, is connected to one end of a cable that is entrained about the pulley of the pulley arm. The opposite end of the cable is interconnected with the resistance module to provide precisely variable resistance to movement of the body-engaging means during the performance of a particular exercise. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the character described in the preceding paragraphs that includes a unique mechanism for selectively interconnecting the body-engaging means with the selected resistance imparting cords of the resistance module. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus which provides readily variable resistance levels similar or equal to those found on home and commercial exercise devices. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus of the character described in the preceding paragraphs that includes a compact, self-contained, selectorized resistance module that embodies a plurality of discrete, elastomeric cords that can be used with a conventional, non-rotating pulley-carrying exercise arm. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide a device that has numerous starting points of resistance to provide optimum positioning with free and natural range of motion. 
   Still another object of the invention is to provide a compact, lightweight exercise machine that is both safe and reliable, while at the same time providing a full range of movement when performing exercises. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide a device as described in the preceding paragraphs that is of simple design, embodies a minimum number of component parts and is easy to operate with a minimum of training. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide an exercise device of the character described that can be inexpensively manufactured, easily set up and operated and conveniently stored in confined areas having limited ceiling height. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a generally perspective view of one form of the exercise apparatus of the invention. 
       FIG. 2  is a front view of the apparatus. 
       FIG. 3  is a front view similar to  FIG. 2  but illustrating the incremental movement of the pulley arm of the apparatus between the upper and intermediate positions. 
       FIG. 4  is a view taken along lines  4 - 4  of  FIG. 3 . 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B , when considered together, comprise a cross-sectional view taken along lines  5 - 5  of  FIG. 3 . 
       FIG. 6  is an enlarged, fragmentary front view of the upper portion of the apparatus. 
       FIG. 7  is an enlarged, fragmentary, generally perspective view of the upper portion of the apparatus. 
       FIG. 8  is an enlarged, fragmentary side view of a portion of the resistance means of the apparatus. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B , when considered together, comprise an enlarged, fragmentary view taken along lines  9 - 9  of  FIG. 8 . 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B , when considered together, comprise an enlarged, fragmentary view taken along lines  10 - 10  of  FIGS. 9A and 9B . 
       FIG. 11  is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the resistance means of the invention, including a perspective view of one of the elastomeric cords of the resistance means. 
       FIG. 12  is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of a portion of the resistance means of the invention and a one of the guide columns of the invention. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B , when considered together, comprise a front view of a portion of the resistance means of the invention partly broken away to show internal construction. 
       FIGS. 14A and 14B , when considered together, comprise a cross-sectional view taken along lines  14 - 14  of  FIGS. 13A and 13B . 
       FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 14A  but showing one of the elastomeric cords disconnected from the selector means of the invention. 
       FIG. 16  is a generally diagrammatic, side-elevational view illustrating the path of the connector cable of the apparatus through the pulley system of the apparatus. 
       FIG. 17  is a generally perspective, exploded view of a portion of the selector means of the invention. 
       FIG. 18  is a generally perspective view of an alternate form of the apparatus of the invention which includes the provision of an exercising bench. 
       FIG. 19  is a generally perspective view of still another form of the exercise apparatus of the invention in which the novel pulley-carrying exercise arm is used with a set of conventional free weights. 
       FIG. 20  is a generally perspective view of yet another form of the exercise apparatus of the invention in which the novel pulley-carrying exercise arm is used with a conventional selectorized weight stack. 
       FIG. 21  is a generally perspective view of still another form of the exercise apparatus of the invention in which the elastomeric cord-type resistance module of the invention is used with a conventional, nonrotating pulley carrying exercise arm. 
   

   DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   Referring to the drawings and particularly to  FIGS. 1-4 , one form of the exercise apparatus of the present invention for use by a trainee in the performance of exercises is there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral  14 . The apparatus here comprises a supporting frame  16  having a base portion  16   a  for engagement with a generally planar support surface defining a first plane  18  and an upstanding portion  20 . Connected to upstanding portion  20  is a sleeve assembly  21  that includes a tubular sleeve  22  having an axial centerline  24 . As best seen in  FIG. 5A , axial centerline  24  extends at an acute angle “A” of between about 12 and about 18 degrees with respect to a second plane  25  that is vertically spaced-apart from and generally parallel to first plane  18 . 
   Rotatably connected to tubular sleeve  22  for rotation relative thereto is an arm assembly  26 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , arm assembly  26  is controllably rotatable from a first upright position  31  to a first intermediate position  33  and to a second intermediate position  35 . As will be discussed further in the paragraphs which follow, locking means, which are carried by sleeve  22 , are operably associated with arm assembly  26  and function to securely lock the arm assembly in a selected position. A stop member  27 , which forms a part of the locking means, is pivotally connected to an upstanding housing  29  that is connected to sleeve  22  and forms a part of the sleeve assembly  21  (see  FIGS. 6 and 7 ). 
   As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 5A , arm assembly  26  includes a generally cylindrically shaped hub portion  38 , a portion that is telescopically received within tubular sleeve  22 . Arm assembly  26  also includes a tubular arm portion  40 , which has an axial centerline  40   a . As indicated in  FIG. 5A , arm portion  40  is connected to and extends from hub portion  38  in a manner such that the acute angle “AA” formed between center-lines  24  and  40   a  is between about 60 and about 80 degrees. 
   As best seen in  FIG. 4 , the upstanding portion  20  of the support frame is disposed within a third plane  43  that is generally perpendicular to first plane  18 . A novel feature of the present invention resides in the fact that, as shown in  FIG. 4 , upon rotation of the arm assembly  26  into the second intermediate position  35 , the central axis  40   a  of the tubular arm portion  40  extends at an acute angle “C” relative to the third plane  43  of between about 20 and about 40 degrees. In this position the outboard end  40   b  of tubular arm portion  40 , which includes the pulley “P” about which the elongated connector cable  42  is entrained, will be disposed outside the footprint of the base portion  16   a  so that the base portion will not interfere with exercises performed by the trainee when the arm assembly  26  is in the second intermediate position. 
   Connector cable  42 , which is carried by arm assembly  22  for telescopic movement there within, has first and second ends  42   a  ( FIG. 5A) and 42   b  ( FIG. 1 ). Connected to first end  42   a  of the elongated connector cable is gripping, or body-engaging means for gripping by the trainee. This gripping means can take various forms, but is shown in  FIG. 5A  as a handle bar  44  for gripping by the extremities of the trainee. 
   Connected to the second end  42   b  of the elongated connector cable are novel resistance means for yieldably resisting telescopic movement of the connector cable relative to the arm assembly  22  ( FIG. 1 ). The details of construction and operation of this novel resistance means will be discussed in the paragraphs that follow. 
   In the present form of the invention the resistance means comprises a plurality of side-by-side stretchable members  48   a ,  48   b ,  48   c ,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f ,  48   g ,  48   h ,  48   i  and  48   j  that are carried by a lower assemblage generally designated by the numeral  50  ( FIGS. 1 and 9A ). Also forming a part of the resistance means of the invention is an upper assemblage, generally designated by the numeral  52  ( FIGS. 1 and 9B ). Upper assemblage  52  is operably associated with lower assemblage  50  and functions to interconnect the lower assemblage  50  with the second end  42   b  of the elongated connector cable  42 . In the present form of the invention upper assemblage  52 , which is similar in construction and operation to a conventional block and tackle, comprises a first block  54  that is connected to a cross-member  56  that spans the spaced-apart, upstanding legs  16   c  of supporting frame  16 . Rotatably mounted on first block  54  are adjacently disposed pulleys  60   a ,  60   b ,  60   c  and  60   d  ( FIGS. 1 and 7 ). As best seen in  FIG. 1 , upper assemblage  52  also includes a second block  62  that is vertically spaced from the first block and is connected to the lower assemblage  50 . Rotatably mounted on second block  62  are adjacently disposed pulleys  64   a ,  64   b ,  64   c  and  64   d . As shown in  FIG. 1 , when the apparatus is assembled, the elongated connector cable  42  is successively entrained about pulley  64   a , pulley  60   a , pulley  64   b , pulley  60   b , pulley  64   c , pulley  60   c , pulley  64   d  and pulley  60   d  and then the second end  42   b  is connected to block  54 . With this construction, a pulling force exerted by the trainee on the first end  42   a  of the elongated connector cable will cause the mechanically advantaged lifting of the lower assemblage  50  against the urging of the stretchable members carried by a lower assemblage  50 . 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , each of the stretchable members  48   a ,  48   b ,  48   c ,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f ,  48   g ,  48   h ,  48   i  and  48   j  is entrained over a pair of spaced-apart upper pulleys  50   a  and under a lower pulley  50   b . A connector element  68 , which is of the unique configuration shown in  FIGS. 5B and 10A , is connected to the extremities of each of the stretchable members by a pair of connector hooks  49  ( FIG. 10A ). It is to be understood that the stretchable members  48  can be interconnected with their respective connector elements  68  by various types of connectors. As best seen in  FIG. 10A , each connector element  68  includes first and second curved edge portions  68   a  and  68   b , which are provided with roller-receiving grooves or roller-receiving cavities  70  (see also  FIG. 11 ), the function of which will presently be described. It is to be understood that various types of connectors can be used to connect the stretchable members with connector element  68 . 
   Lower assemblage  50  also includes receiving means for receiving connector elements  68 . This receiving means here comprises a rigid plastic or metal housing  72  having first and second spaced-apart sidewalls  72   a  and  72   b  ( FIGS. 10A and 17 ). Each side wall is provided with a plurality of spaced-apart, specially configured apertures  75  ( FIGS. 9A and 17 ) which are adapted to closely receive a selected one of a plurality of interengaging members or rollers  78  which are movable within the roller-receiving openings or apertures  75  from a first retracted position to the second connector element engagement position shown in  FIG. 10A . As indicated in  FIGS. 10A and 15 , housing  72  also includes a bottom wall  72   c  which, in cooperation with side walls  72   a  and  72   b , define a connector element receiving chamber  79 . To retain the rollers within apertures  75 , each of the apertures is provided with inwardly extending, lanced-out portions  75   a  ( FIG. 15 ). Portions  75   a  function to retain rollers  78  within apertures  75  while at the same time permitting them to move inwardly of chamber  79  toward the connector element engagement position shown in  FIG. 10A . As indicated in  FIG. 10A , as rollers  78  move into the second inward position they enter the grooves  70  provided in connector elements  68  and, in this way, function to securely interlock together the connector element and housing  72  of the connector means. 
   Forming an important aspect of the apparatus of the present invention is a selector means which functions to move selected rollers  78  into locking engagement with selected connector elements  68 . In the present embodiment of the invention, the selector means comprises a selector member  82  having spaced-apart walls  82   a  and  82   b  which are interconnected by a base  82   c . As best seen by referring to  FIGS. 9A and 17 , the side walls of selector member  82  are formed in a generally stair-step configuration with each wall being provided with a plurality of parallel roller-engaging bands or areas which are adapted to selectively engage rollers  78  as the selector member  82  moves in an upward direction toward housing  72  of the connector means. More specifically, in a manner presently to be described, selector member  82  is movable between first and second positions with the side walls thereof moving into spaces  83  formed between the side walls  72   a  and  72   b  of housing  72  and the inboard walls  84   a  of a pair of channel-like members  84  which are connected to upstanding portion  20  and are disposed on either side of connector housing  72 . As walls  82   a  and  82   b  of the selector member move into spaces  83  in the manner shown in  FIGS. 13A and 14A , they will selectively engage rollers  78  tending to force the rollers inwardly of apertures  75  and into locking engagement with selected connector elements  68 . 
   Turning now particularly to  FIGS. 9A ,  10 A and  17 , the connector means here include a first pair of spaced-apart, generally centrally disposed rollers  78   a , a second pair of spaced-apart rollers  78   b  disposed on one side of the first pair of rollers, and a third pair of spaced-apart rollers  78   c  disposed on the opposite side of the first pair of rollers. A fourth pair of spaced-apart rollers  78   d  is disposed proximate second pair of rollers  78   b  and a fifth pair of spaced-apart rollers  78   e  is disposed proximate third pair of rollers  78   c . Similarly, a sixth pair of rollers  78   f  is disposed proximate rollers  78   d , and a seventh pair of rollers  78   g  is disposed proximate rollers  78   e . In like manner, an eighth pair of rollers  78   h  is disposed proximate rollers  78   f  and a ninth pair of rollers  78   i  is disposed proximate rollers  78   g . Finally, a tenth pair of rollers  78   j  is disposed proximate rollers  78   h . It is to be understood that any number of rollers can be used depending upon the desired size and end-use of the apparatus. 
   As also shown in  FIGS. 9A ,  10 A and  17 , walls  82   a  and  82   b  of selector member  82  are each provided with a generally centrally disposed first roller-engaging band  87   a  that is adapted to engage rollers  78   a  when selector member  82  is in its first position. With the selector member in this first position, bands  87   a  force rollers  78   a  into locking engagement with roller-receiving grooves or roller-receiving cavities  70 , of the connector element  68  which is attached to the generally centrally disposed elastomeric cord  48   e  so that an upward movement of upper assemblage  52  will cause cord  48   e  to stretch in a manner to yieldably resist such upward movement. 
   Walls  82   a  and  82   b  are also provided with a second pair of spaced-apart bands  87   b , which is disposed on one side of first pair of bands  87   a . These second bands are adapted to engage second pair of rollers  78   b  in a manner to urge the rollers inwardly of apertures  70   b . A third pair of spaced-apart bands  87   c  is disposed on the opposite side of first pair of bands  87   a  and is adapted to engage third pair of rollers  78   c . Similarly, a fourth pair of spaced-apart bands  87   d  is disposed proximate second pair of bands  87   b , and is adapted to engage fourth pair of rollers  78   d , while a fifth pair of spaced-apart bands  87   e  is disposed proximate third pair of bands  87   c , these latter bands being adapted to engage fifth pair of rollers  78   e . In like manner, walls  82   a  and  82   b  are provided with a sixth pair of bands  87   f  located adjacent bands  87   d , a seventh pair of bands  87   g  located adjacent bands  87   e , an eighth pair of bands  87   h  located adjacent bands  87   f , a ninth pair of bands  87   i  located adjacent bands  87   g  and a tenth pair of bands  87   j  located adjacent bands  87   h . Bands  87   f ,  87   g ,  87   h ,  87   i , and  87   j  are adapted to engage rollers  78   f ,  78   g ,  78   g ,  78   h ,  78   i , and  78   j  respectively as selector member  82  is moved toward connector housing  72 . As these bands engage their respective rollers, the rollers will move into locking engagement with the connector elements  68  located proximate the rollers. 
   For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 13A , as selector member  82  is moved upwardly toward housing  72  to the intermediate position there shown, bands  87   b  and  87   c  will engage rollers  78   b  and  78   c  in a manner to move them into locking engagement with the connector elements that are connected to cords  48   f  and  48   d  respectively. This movement now couples cords  48   c  and  48   g  along with cord  48   e , to housing  72  so that upward movement of upper assemblage  52  will cause cords  48   c ,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f , and  48   g  to stretch in a manner to yieldably resist such upward movement of upper assemblage  52  in the direction of the arrow  83  of  FIG. 1  will be resisted by the combined resistance of the five elastomeric cords. 
   Continued movement of selector member  82  toward housing  72  will cause bands  87   g  and  87   h  to move into engagement with rollers  78   g  and  78   f  so as to urge these rollers into locking engagement with the connector elements  68  that are connected to cords  48   b  and  48   h  and are disposed within chamber  79  proximate rollers  78   g  and  78   f . This movement couples these cords, along with cords  48   c ,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f  and  48   g  to resist movement to housing  72  so that upward movement of upper assemblage  52  will now be resisted by the combined resistance offered by the seven elastomeric bands coupled to housing  72 . In like manner, further movement of selector member  82  toward mating engagement with housing  72  will cause bands  87   i ,  87   h  and  87   j  to engage rollers  78   i ,  78   h  and  78   j , thereby coupling three more cords to the housing  72 . With the selector member in this final, second position, all of the cords are coupled with housing  72  thereby providing maximum resistance to the upward movement of upper assemblage  52 . Elastomeric cords  48  can be of the same or different elasticity so that various incremental resistance loads can be obtained as the elastomeric cords are sequentially coupled with housing  72  and with the body-engaging means, here shown as gripping handle  44  that is connected to the first end  42   a  of the elongated connector cable  42 . It is apparent that movement of selector member  82  away from housing  72  will permit sequential disconnection of the elastomeric cords from housing  72  thereby decreasing the resistance offered to movement of the body-engaging means. 
   In order to move the selector member between the first and second positions, a novel actuating means is provided. In the present form of the invention, this actuating means comprises an actuating assembly made up of an actuating arm assembly  90  that comprises a generally U-shaped lifting arm  92  which is pivotally connected to a shaft  94  that spans a pair of spaced-apart bushings  96 , the purpose of which will presently be described. The leg portions  92   a  of the U-shaped arm  92  are, in turn, pivotally interconnected with a second pair of arms  98 , the extremities  98   a  of which are connected to a transversely extending connector bar  100  that is connected to one of the channel-like members  84  ( FIGS. 14A and 17 ). The arm assembly  90  can, of course, be constructed in various sizes and configurations. 
   Turning once again to  FIGS. 1 ,  13 A and  17 , it is to be noted that a pair of upstanding, spaced-apart guide rods  104  are connected proximate their lower ends  104   a  to a channel-shaped member  106  that is in turn connected to a cross-member  108  that spans base portion  16   a . Slidably receivable over guide rods  104  are the previously identified bushings  96  (See  FIGS. 12 and 17 ). With this construction, as a lifting force is applied to the lifting arm  92  of actuator arm assembly  90 , bushing  96  will slide along guide rods  104  and, in so doing, will cause the pivotally connected arm  98  to move selector member  82  toward or away from the roller carrying housing  72  of the connector means (See  FIG. 10A ). As previously mentioned, as selector member  82  moves toward housing  72  and toward the rollers  78  carried thereby, bands  87  of the selector member will sequentially engage the rollers in a manner to urge them inwardly into locking engagement with the connector elements  68  that are connected to the lower ends of the various elastomeric cords  48 . 
   To position selector member  82  at selected locations relative to connector housing  72 , spring-biased locking means are provided. In this regard, each of the guide rods  104  is provided with a plurality of spaced-apart pin-receiving cavities  112  which are adapted to receive the inboard ends of a pair of spring-loaded securement pins  114  which form a part of the securement means of the present embodiment of the invention. Pins  114  are carried within bores  116  provided in each of the bushings  96  and are biased inwardly by a spring  118  ( FIGS. 12 and 13A ). With this construction, as bushings slide along guide rods  104 , they will smoothly ratchet into cavities  112 . Cavities  112  are spaced-apart so as to correspond with the sequential engagement of bands  87  of the support member as the bands are moved into actuating engagement with the rollers  78 . 
   The construction of the securement pin assemblies is such that, as lifting arm  92  is lifted, the trainee will experience a precise, ratchet-like, tactile sensation as each level of movement of the selector member toward housing  72  is accomplished. For example, by referring to  FIG. 9A  it can be seen that when the pin assemblies are in engagement with the first cavities  112   a , all of the bands  87  of the selector member  82  are in engagement with the rollers  78 . 
   However, when the lifting arm is moved to the position shown in  FIG. 13A  placing pin assemblies in engagement with cavities  112   b , bands  87   a ,  87   b ,  87   c ,  87   d , and  87   e  have been moved into engagement with rollers  78   a ,  78   b ,  78   c ,  78   d , and  78   e  respectively, thereby interconnecting elastomeric cords  48   c ,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f , and  48   g  with housing  72 . With the apparatus of the invention in this position, any upward movement of the housing will be resisted by the five elastomeric cords just identified. As the lifting arm assembly continues to urge selector member  82  toward connector housing  72 , the securement means, or pin assemblies  114  will sequentially ratchet into engagement with the higher cavities  112  provided in the guide rods  104  so as to support the selector member in the desired position. To assist in the smooth upward movement of selector member  82 , by lifting arm assembly  90 , a pair of rollers  118  is disposed intermediate the bottom wall of the selector member. 
   It is apparent that a number of different types of exercises can be performed with the apparatus in the various configurations shown in the drawings. For example, with the arm assembly  26  in the position shown in  FIG. 3  by the solid lines, various overhead pulling exercises, such as the latissimus muscle exercises and other upper body exercises can be performed by pulling downwardly on handle  44  against the urging of the resistance means. In the preferred form of the invention the first end  42   a  of the cable is able to travel about 52 inches for latissimus muscle exercises. It is to be observed that with the arm assembly in the upraised position shown in  FIG. 3 , cable  42  is entrained about a pulley  122  that is rotatable connected to a housing  124  that is, in turn, connected to arm  40 . Next, cable  42  extends through arm  40 , under a pulley  122   a , through sleeve  38  and over a pulley  122   b  (See  FIGS. 5A and 16 ). Pulleys  122 ,  122   a  and  122   b  comprise a part of the pulley means of the invention for operably interconnecting the cable  42  with assembly  52 . 
   With the arm assembly  26  in the intermediate positions shown by the phantom lines of  FIG. 3 , as for example positions  33  and  145 , various arm, back and shoulder exercises can be performed against the resistance of the resistance means by pulling outwardly and downwardly on handle  44 . As previously discussed, because of the unique angular positioning of arm  40  relative to hub  26 , when the arm is in these intermediate positions, the outermost pulley  122  about which the cable  42  is entrained is conveniently positioned outside the footprint of base  16   a  so that the base assembly will not interfere with the performance of the exercises. 
   With the arm assembly  26  in the intermediate positions  35  and  147 , a number of other arm; leg and back exercises can be performed with or without the use of the bench assembly  128  shown in  FIG. 18  by pulling outwardly on handle  44 . Bench assembly  128 , which is of a conventional construction, comprises a floor engaging tubular support structure  130  and a body support assembly  132  that is supported by the support structure. 
   With the apparatus in the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 , cable  42  passes under pulley  122  and extends underneath the bench assembly so that various types of leg and lower body exercises can readily be performed against the urging of the resistance means. 
   In summary, it is to be appreciated that the arm assembly  26  can uniquely be articulated from overhead to shoulder width at the side to behind the trainee at its lowest position with each position being ideal for the performance of a given exercise. 
   In the form of the apparatus of the invention shown in  FIG. 1 , cable  42  once again passes about pulleys  122 ,  122   a  and  122   b  so that a movement of the first body-engaging means or handle  44  in an outwardly and downwardly direction away from pulley  122  will cause a foreshortening of the cable in a manner to move second block  62  in an upwardly direction (See  FIG. 16 ). Upward movement of block  62  will, in turn, cause an upward movement of lower assemblage  50  against the urging of the elastomeric cords that have been selectively interconnected with housing  72  in the manner previously described. 
   Referring particularly to  FIGS. 3 ,  4 ,  5 A and  6 , when the trainee desires to move the arm assembly  26  from the raised position shown by the solid lines in  FIG. 3  to a selected one of the intermediate positions shown by the phantom lines, the release member  136  of the locking means is pulled upwardly as illustrated by the phantom lines of  FIG. 6  against the urging of biasing means shown here as an upwardly curved spring  137  that is connected to release member  136  in the manner shown in the drawings (See  FIG. 5A ). This upward movement of release member  136  moves a locking pin  138 , which is selectably receivable within circumferentially spaced-apart bores  140  formed in sleeve  22  and hub  38  of the arm assembly. This upward movement of the release member permits rotation of the arm assembly within sleeve  22  so that, as indicated by the arrows  141  of  FIG. 6 , the arm assembly can be incrementally moved and locked in a plurality of intermediate positions to enable the performance of numerous types of upper and lower body exercises. When the arm assembly is rotated into a selection position, release of member  136  will securely lock the arm assembly in that selected position. 
   When the arm assembly  26  is in the lowered position shown in  FIG. 6 , the previously identified stop member  27  will, due to the urging of a generally “U”-shaped element  142  formed on hub  38 , engage the wall of housing  29  in a manner to block further rotation of the arm assembly in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in  FIG. 6 . This action of the stop member prevents misalignment of cable  42  that could result from further counterclockwise rotation of the arm assembly. However, it is to be noted that stop member  27  will not prevent clockwise movement of the arm assembly from the location shown in  FIG. 6 , so that the arm assembly can be moved into the positions shown by the phantom lines in  FIG. 3  that are identified by the numerals  145  and  147  as well as into a plurality of different intermediate positions. When, during this clockwise movement, the arm assembly reaches the lowered, generally vertical position, stop member  27  will engage the other side of housing  29  thereby blocking further clockwise movement of the arm assembly and preventing misalignment of cable  42 . This unique feature of the apparatus of the invention that permits the arm assembly  26  to be moved incrementally and securely locked into a plurality of angular exercise positions provides versatility not found in prior art exercising devices. 
   Referring next to  FIG. 19  of the drawings, still another form of the exercise apparatus of the present invention for use by a trainee in the performance of exercises is there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral  154 . This latter form of the exercise apparatus is similar in many respects to the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 1-7  of the drawings and like numerals are used in  FIG. 19  to identify like components. The primary difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described forms of the invention resides in the fact that the arm assembly  26 , which is identical in construction and operation to that previously described, is used in connection with a set of free weights  156 . 
   The apparatus  154  here comprises a supporting frame  158  having a base portion  158   a  for engagement with a generally planar support surface defining a first plane  160  and an upstanding portion  162 . Connected to upstanding portion  162  is a sleeve assembly  21  that includes a tubular sleeve  22  that is identical in construction to that previously described. Rotatably connected to tubular sleeve  22  for rotation relative thereto is the previously identified arm assembly  26 . 
   A connector cable  42 , which is carried by arm assembly  22  for telescopic movement therewithin, has first and second ends  42   a  ( FIG. 5A) and 42   b  ( FIG. 1 ). Connected to first end  42   a  of the elongated connector cable is gripping or body-engaging means for gripping by the trainee shown in  FIG. 19  as a handle bar  164  for gripping by the extremities of the trainee. 
   Connected to the second end  42   b  of the elongated connector cable are the resistance means of this latest form of the invention for yieldably resisting telescopic movement of the connector cable relative to the arm assembly  22 . As previously mentioned, this resistance means here comprises the conventional set of free weights  156  that are of the general configuration shown in  FIG. 19 . Free weights  156  here comprise a plurality of generally disc-shaped weights  156   a  that are removably mounted in conventional fashion on a transverse shaft  156   b.    
   It is apparent that a downward force exerted on handlebar  164  will result in the upward travel of free weights  156 . The degree of resistance offered by the free weights can be varied by adding or removing weights  156   a  from transverse shaft  156   b.    
   In the manner previously described, the exercise arm can be incrementally rotated between a high latissimus exercise position into a low exercise position and also can be rotated into various intermediate positions. As before, this unique feature permits the proper performance of a number of different upper body, arm and leg exercises. 
   Turning to  FIG. 20  of the drawings, yet another form of the exercise apparatus of the present invention for use by a trainee in the performance of exercises is there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral  170 . This latter form of the exercise apparatus is also similar in many respects to the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 1-7  of the drawings, and like numerals are used in  FIG. 20  to identify like components. The primary difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described forms of the invention resides in the fact that the arm assembly  26 , which is identical in construction and operation to that previously described, is used in connection with a set of selectorized weights  172 . 
   The apparatus  170  here comprises a supporting frame  172  having a base portion  172   a  for engagement with a generally planar support surface defining a first plane  174  and an upstanding portion  176 . Connected to upstanding portion  176  is a sleeve assembly  21  that includes a tubular sleeve  22  that is identical in construction to that previously described. Rotatably connected to tubular sleeve  22  for rotation relative thereto is the previously identified arm assembly  26 . 
   Connector cable  42 , which is carried by arm assembly  26  for telescopic movement therewithin, has first and second ends  42   a  and  42   b . Connected to first end  42   a  of the elongated connector cable is gripping or body-engaging means for gripping by the trainee shown in  FIG. 19  as a handle bar  164  for gripping by the extremities of the trainee. 
   Connected to the second end  42   b  of the elongated connector cable are the resistance means of this latest form of the invention for yieldably resisting telescopic movement of the connector cable relative to the arm assembly  26 . As previously mentioned, this resistance means here comprises a conventional set of selectorized weights  172  that are of the general configuration shown in  FIG. 20 . Selectorized weights  172  here comprise a plurality of stacked weights  172   a , the vertical travel of which is guided by a pair of transversely spaced-apart guide rods  180  that are mounted within upstanding portion  176 . A selector post  182  extends upwardly through holes in the weights  172   a  and, along with a selector pin (not shown), provides the means for selecting the number of weights to be lifted. This type of selectorized system is well known in the art and such a system as described in the previously mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,912,263 issued to Yatso. Reference should be made to this latter patent for a discussion of the details concerning the manner in which the number of weights to be lifted can be selected. 
   With the construction described in the preceding paragraphs, it is apparent that a downward force exerted on handlebar  164  will result in the upward travel of one or more of the weights  172   a.    
   In the manner previously described, the exercise arm can be incrementally rotated between a high latissimus exercise position into a low exercise position and also can be rotated into various intermediate positions. As before, this unique feature permits the proper performance of a number of different upper body, arm and leg exercises. 
   Referring next to  FIG. 21  of the drawings, still another form of the exercise apparatus of the present invention for use by a trainee in the performance of exercises is there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral  184 . This latter form of the exercise apparatus is also similar in certain respects to the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 1-7  of the drawings and like numerals are used in  FIG. 21  to identify like components. The primary difference between this latest form of the invention and the earlier described forms of the invention resides in the fact that a conventional type of non-rotating arm assembly  186  is operably interconnected with the resistance means, which, in this embodiment, is identical in construction and operation to that shown in  FIG. 1  of the drawings and previously described herein. 
   The apparatus  184  here comprises a supporting frame  186  having a base portion  186   a  for engagement with a generally planar support surface defining a first plane  188  and an upstanding portion  190 . Connected to upstanding portion  190  is the previously mentioned, conventional type of non-rotating lifting arm  186  that comprises a generally cylindrically shaped, tubular sleeve  186   a.    
   A connector cable  192 , which is entrained about pulleys  193  and  195  that are carried by arm assembly  186  is adapted for telescopic movement within arm  186 . Connector cable  192  has first and second ends  192   a  and  192   b . Connected to first end  192   a  of the connector cable is gripping or body-engaging means for gripping by the trainee shown in  FIG. 21  as a handle bar  164  for gripping by the extremities of the trainee. 
   Connected to the second end  192   b  of the elongated connector cable are the resistance means of this latest form of the invention for yieldably resisting telescopic movement of the connector cable relative to arm  186 . As previously mentioned, this resistance means is identical in construction and operation to that shown in  FIG. 1  of the drawings and reference should be made to the description herein of the resistance means illustrated in  FIGS. 1-18  of the drawings for the details of construction and operation of this important means. It is apparent that a downward force exerted on handle bar  164  will be resisted by the resistance means, which can be adjusted in the manner previously described herein. 
   As was the case with the embodiment of the invention illustrated in  FIG. 18  of the drawings, this latter embodiment of the invention also includes a conventional type of bench assembly  197  that is disposed proximate frame portion  186   a  and functions to support the trainee during the performance of the various types of exercises previously discussed herein. 
   Having now described the invention in detail in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in this art will have no difficulty in making changes and modifications in the individual parts or their relative assembly in order to meet specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the following claims.