WEIGHT SPOTTER

Described herein are examples of a device which includes a weight spotter configured to hold a free weight on a lower portion, and be attached to a structure, such as cross bar of exercise equipment or a shaft of a barbell. The weight spotter configured to allow a user to easily lift and replace the free weight from the structure while providing support and ease of use for the user.

BACKGROUND

Strength training is an important aspect of maintaining physical fitness. Especially relevant as people age, the myriad of benefits to strength training continue to reveal themselves. From enhanced mobility, better flexibility, improved range of motion, decreased frailness, cardiovascular health and bone density—it is uncommon for any fitness plan to not include strength training. In addition, free weights are among the best ways to maintain strength training. Free weights provide additional challenge exercisers due to the freedom of motion provided by the free weights. Additionally, exercisers can also exercise a broad range of muscle groups using only a small set of free weights. An incredibly cost-effective way to stay fit, a simple set of free weights can provide a broad range of solutions to exercise the whole body. Free weights are also risky. Exercisers can drop the weights causing damage to property or body. Exercisers are also at risk if they improperly move while holding weights and may injure muscles, joints, or bones. The very freedom of free weights also makes them dangerous.

That danger is especially acute in spotting weights. Safely maintaining resting weights at an elevated resting position is essential for several strength training exercises. Oftentimes, the weights need to rest above the exerciser. For smaller weights, like dumbbells, safely spotting the weights is a challenge. They simply cannot rest across a weight bench like a larger barbell. Similarly, lifting weights from the ground can be painful for exercisers. For example, lifting dumbbells from the ground to perform a bench press can be very painful for the exerciser's shoulders.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A weight spotter as disclosed herein will become better understood through a review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various embodiments of a weight spotting system. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity and clarity, all the contemplated variations may not be individually described in the following detailed description. Those skilled in the art will understand how the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered and not depart in substance from the scope of the examples described herein.

A conventional spotting system may include a variety of mechanical parts to provide a myriad of safety features. In one instance, a weight support device includes a cradle to place the free weights, a body to connect the weights to a safety restraining strap and a connectively attachable mechanism to secure that strap to a structure capable of supporting the weights. Additionally, the exerciser can selectively engage or relax a tensioner on the strap to have either complete freedom with free weights with the option to engage full support at any moment.

Other systems comprise even more robust footprints to spot-free weights. Dedicated weight racks, with mechanical safety components, are also well known in the field. Often specialized weight racks or other gymnasium installations, they are products focused on commercial gymnasiums. They are big, heavy, and complicated.

Conventional supported weight systems are expensive. The support system itself has multiple mechanical subsystems (the restraint system, the weight cradle, the engagement selector) that may not be immediately intuitive to exercisers. Without a free-standing structure, such as a weight rack, or architectural features that can support heavy weights, conventional systems are cumbersome to use and add further expense. Without dedicated staff to explain how to operate equipment or a personal trainer to select the safety equipment, exercisers simply may opt to lift with free weights. The use of spotting systems may require a dedicated space, such as a full-featured gymnasium, which precludes home exercisers.

The fixed nature of spotting solutions, or the complex mechanical restraint systems further limit the number of weights that the systems can support. Specialized systems often support specific weight sizes or kinds of weights. Such systems make it difficult to use conventional weighs, such as a set of dumbbells, utilizing safety spotting features. Conversely, spotting systems often only support the specific kinds of weights: requiring different solutions for dumbbells vs. barbells.

Implementations of weight spotters may address some or all the problems described above. The weight spotter body is formed of a rigid material. It encompasses at least two angles such that the design can spot even small weights, like dumbbells, on a standard weight bench or barbell. The robust design allows multiple configurations that accommodate a variety of structures for the weight cradle, and multiple configurations for the hook to hold the weight spotter onto a suitable crossbar. The system can further support a variety of free weights: dumbbells or barbells.

FIG.1illustrates the weight spotter (or body)100, according to an embodiment. Embodiments of the weight spotter100contain angles or arcs at opposite ends of the weight spotter100. The top end (or vertical apex) of the weight spotter100includes a hook101and the bottom end (or vertical nadir) of the weight spotter100includes a weight cradle103. For purposes of description and measurements, the weight spotter100will be described in a vertical upright position in which the hook101is attached to a structure, and the weight cradle103contains a free weight and is pulled down vertically by gravity. The weight spotter100is configured or formed to allow a user or exerciser to place a free weight in the weight cradle103and affix or attach the hook101to a crossbar of a weight rack or the shaft (or body) of a barbell. The weight spotter100with the free weight resting in the weight cradle103can then be positioned at a convenient location for the user, such as the crossbar of a weight rack or the shaft of a barbell resting on a barbell shelf of a weight bench. In one embodiment, the weight cradle103may include a horizontal weight cradle frame110that extends between vertical shaft frames120a,120bof an open bottom end of the weight cradle frame110. In another example, the weight cradle103and/or the structure of the weight spotter100the may include a horizontal bar or bars that extend between vertical shaft frames120a,120b. The horizontal bar or bars may provide rigidity and structure to the weight spotter100, provide gripping point(s) for the user, provide resting points for a weight or barbell, and so forth.

The weight spotter100can be formed or prepared from strong metals to allow the weight spotter to rigidly hold a free weight in the weight cradle103. Strong metals can include iron, steel, lead, or other suitable materials. The weight spotter100can be formed or prepared from other materials such as plastic, rubber, polycarbonate, and so forth. The weight spotter100will add additional weight to an exercise above and beyond the weight of the free weight. Users can select a suitable free weight to be used with the weight spotter100based on the weight of the weight spotter100and the desired level of intensity of the exercise. For example, a 2 pound weight spotter, will add 2 pounds to a 10 pound free weight for a total of 12 pounds of total weight for the exercise. Variations on the weight of the weight spotter100can be varied for low, medium or high intensity weight training. In an alternative embodiment, the weight spotter100can be prepared from lightweight rigid material, such as graphite, titanium, or other composite alloy to add minimal weight to the exercise. The weight spotter100selection can be made in view of the free weight to be used in the weight cradle103. For example, a weight spotter100that weights ten pounds can be used with a seventy-pound dumbbell for high intensity bench presses, while a weight spotter100that weighs less than a pound, can be used with light weights (e.g., 2 to 10 pounds) for lighter, burnout or cardio exercises.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can be prepared with protective coatings and/or sleeves surrounding the hook101and/or the weight cradle103to assist with attaching, resting, affixing the hook101onto the structure, and resting, attaching, affixing the free weight to the weight cradle103. The protective coating or sleeve can be prepared from plastic, acrylic, paint, rubber, epoxy, or other suitable materials. The protective coating can be configured to reduce friction from attaching the hook to the structure and placing free weights in the weight cradle.

FIG.2illustrates a perspective view of a weight spotter200(FIG.2A), a side view of a weight spotter200(FIG.2B), a front view of a weight spotter200(FIG.2C), a top view of a weight spotter200(FIG.2D), and a zoom in view of the weight cradle103(FIG.2E), according to an embodiment.

FIG.2Aillustrates a perspective view of a weight spotter200, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Aillustrates vertical shaft frames220a,220b, horizontal hook frame201, and horizontal weight cradle frame203and weight cradle body210. Some of the features inFIG.2Amay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.2A.

FIG.2Billustrates a side view of a weight spotter200, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Billustrates a vertical shaft frames220a, horizontal hook frame201, and horizontal weight cradle frame203and weight cradle body210. Some of the features inFIG.2Bmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.2B.

FIG.2Cillustrates a front view of a weight spotter200, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Cillustrates vertical shaft frames220a,220b, including interior vertical frame edges222a,222b, exterior vertical frame edges224a,224b, horizontal hook frame201, and horizontal weight cradle frame203and weight cradle body210. Some of the features inFIG.2Cmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.2C.

FIG.2Dillustrates a top view of a weight spotter200, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Dillustrates horizontal hook frame201, and horizontal weight cradle frame203and weight cradle body210. Some of the features inFIG.2Dmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.2D.

FIG.2Eillustrates a zoom in view of the weight cradle103, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Eillustrates the weight cradle103from a side view. Some of the features inFIG.2Emay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.2E.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can have two vertical shaft frames220a,220bthat extend vertically from the hook101to the weight cradle103. Embodiments of the vertical shaft frames220a,220bcan have a vertical length between 50 and 500 mm, preferably between 100 and 400 mm, and most preferably between 150 and 300 mm. Embodiments are approximately 200 mm in length. Embodiments of the vertical shaft frames220a,220bcan have a width between 1 and 50 mm, preferably between 3 and 25 mm, and most preferably between 5 and 15 mm. Embodiments can be approximately 8 mm in width.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can be configured with two vertical shaft frames220a,220bspaced apart horizontally between 50 and 300 mm (the two vertical shaft frames extending parallel to each other between the hook101and weight cradle103, and the horizontal distance is measured from an interior edge222aof vertical shaft frame220ato interior edge222bof vertical shaft frame220b), preferably between 60 and 200 mm apart, and most preferably between 70 and 120 mm apart. Embodiments of the vertical shaft frames220a,220bcan be approximately 88 or 98 mm apart.

Embodiments of the horizontal hook frame201and the horizontal weight cradle frame203can have a horizontal length between 50 and 300 mm (not counting the curvature of the hook101or weight cradle103, only the horizontal measurement), preferably between 60 and 200 mm, and most preferably between 70 and 120 mm. Embodiments of the horizontal hook frame201and the horizontal weight cradle frame203can be approximately 88 or 98 mm in horizontal length.

Embodiments of the vertical shaft frames120a,120bare configured with a rounded cross-section to provide ease of transition between the vertical shaft frames120a,120band the curvature of the hook101and weight cradle103. Additionally, the rounded configuration of the vertical shaft frame (as well as the hook101and weight cradle103) assist with resting the weight spotter100on the structure and resting the free weight in the weight cradle103. Alternative embodiments of the vertical shaft frames120a,120bcan be square, rectangular, or oval in their cross-section.

Embodiments of the weight cradle103can have a weight cradle body210that extends from vertical shaft frame220ato vertical shaft frame220bin the region of the weight cradle103. The weight cradle body210is configured to hold the free weight in the weight cradle103, and aid in the user gripping the weight cradle103and the free weight during exercise. The weight cradle body210has an arc, or a weight cradle body arc215that is equal or greater than the weight cradle arc307.

FIG.3illustrates a side view of the weight spotter100, according to an embodiment. As illustrated inFIG.3, the hook arc305and the weight cradle arc307, are defined by curvatures in opposite directions away from the vertical shaft frames220a,220b. The hook arc305curves downwards from a hook vertical apex310of the weight spotter100. The weight cradle arc307curves upwards from a weight cradle vertical nadir312of the weight spotter100. Some of the features inFIG.3may be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.3.

The curvature at the top and the bottom of the weight spotter100can be varied to suit different types of weights, different types of exercises, and different comfort levels of the user. The hook arc305, which is a generally semi-circular arc formed by the curvature of the hook101, is configured to allow the weight spotter100to rest, attach, or be affixed to a structure, such as the shaft of a barbell, a crossbar of a weight rack, or other suitable structure. Embodiments of the hook arc305can have a radius (measuring a radius of the semi-circle formed by the hook101from an apex310of the hook101) from between 5 and 100 mm, preferably between 10 and 50 mm, and most preferably between 20 and 30 mm. An embodiment can have a hook ark radius of 25 mm. Embodiments of the hook101can extend horizontally distally from the vertical shaft frames220a,220ba distance greater than a perfect circle of the hook arc305. Embodiments of the weight spotter100can have a hook101that extends horizontally a greater distance distally from the vertical shaft frame220a,220b, than the horizontal distal distance of the weight cradle103, which provides ease of resting, attaching, or affixing the weight spotter100to the structure. A distance measured from the vertical shaft frame220to a vertical hook edge315can be between 20 and 200 mm, preferably between 50 and 100 mm, and most preferably between 70 and 90 mm. Embodiments can include a distance of 80-120 mm.

The hook arc305can be configured to receive a rounded shaft of a barbell, a rounded crossbar of exercise equipment, squared structures, rounded structures, or other structures upon which the weight spotter100can be attached and/or balanced.

The weight cradle arc307, which is the semi-circular arc formed by the curvature of the weight cradle103at the bottom of the weight spotter100, is configured to receive the shaft of a weight, such as the shaft of a dumbbell, a barbell, or other suitable weight. Embodiments of the weight cradle arc307can have a radius (measured from the weight cradle vertical nadir312of the curve of the weight cradle103) from between 3 and 50 mm, preferably between 5 and 30 mm, and most preferably between 10 and 25 mm. An embodiment can have a weight cradle arc of 16, 17 or 18 mm.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can have a vertical weight cradle edge330that is defined by the uppermost vertical edge of the weight cradle103distal from the vertical shaft frame220. The horizontal distance from the vertical shaft frame220to the vertical weight cradle edge330can be between 20 and 200 mm, preferably between 50 and 100 mm, and most preferably between 70 and 90 mm. Embodiments can include a distance of 31.5 mm, 30 mm, 32 mm, 33 mm, and so forth. The vertical weight cradle edge330can be configured to match the height of the shaft of a free weight to allow it to easily rest in the weight cradle and be grasped by the user with minimal force and/or strength.

In an embodiment, a user or exerciser can hang, attach, rest, or affix the weight spotter100via the hook101on a structure, and then place a free weight in the weight cradle103. In an embodiment, the free weight in the weight cradle103is a dumbbell. In another embodiment the free weight in the weight cradle103is a barbell. After placing or positioning the free weight in the weight cradle103, the user can grasp the weight cradle103, wrapping their fingers around both the free weight and the weight cradle103, and removing the weight spotter100from the structure. The opposing configuration, the hook101and weight cradle103disposed in opposite vertical direction from the vertical shaft frames220a,220b, provides variety in how the weight spotter100supports the free weight and allows the user to attach the weight spotter100to the structure.

The hook arc305, weight cradle arc307, and total vertical height α of the weight spotter100can be configured to allow for placement of the hook101closer to or further away from the user. The total vertical height a of the weight spotter100can be measured from the hook apex310to the weight cradle vertical nadir312. Embodiments of the total vertical height α of the weight spotter100can be between 100 and 500 mm, preferably between 100 and 400 mm, most preferably between 200 and 300 mm. Embodiments can include a weight spotter100with a total vertical height a of 256 mm.

The weight spotter100can be configured to allow a user to spot free weights on a variety of weight racks or crossbars. Different total vertical heights of the weight spotter100can facilitate or be configured for taller or shorter weight racks. Depending on the horizontal width of the hook101and the weight cradle103, as well as the configuration of the hook arc305and weight cradle arc307, the weight spotter100can be configured for free weights of all weights and sizes. The hook101and weight cradle103are configured to provide support for free weights of a variety sizes, including barbells, dumbbells and other types of free weights.

As an example, when a user desires to bench press dumbbells, the user can attach, affix, or rest two weight spotters100, attaching the hooks101to the structure so that the weight spotter100orients, positions, or sets the weight cradle103at the elevation comfortable for the user to start the exercise. The user places one dumbbell in each of the weight cradles103, lays on the bench and then grabs both weight cradles103(one with each hand). The user wraps his fingers around the weight cradle103and uses the strength of their grip to hold the weight cradle103and the dumbbell together. The weight spotter100is configured so that with minimal twisting of the user's arms and wrist the hook101will readily and/or easily connect with the structure and attach, affix, rest the weight spotter100and dumbbells back in a neutral position. In a similar manner, a weight spotter100with a larger horizontal distance between the vertical shaft frame220a,220b, a wider hook101and a wider weight cradle103can accommodate a barbell. Alternatively, a user can use two weight spotters100, with a barbell laid across both weight cradles103to spot the barbell. The user can wrap their fingers around each weight cradle103and the shaft of the barbell to hold the barbell in contact with the weight cradles103.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can be configured to have narrower and/or wider hook arcs305and weight cradle arcs307. Additionally, the weight spotter100can be configured to have various hook heights β and hook lengths γ. The hook height β is measured from the hook apex vertically to the vertical hook edge315. Embodiments can include a hook height β between 10 and 100 mm, preferably between 15 and 50 mm, and most preferably between 20 and 40 mm. Embodiments can include 47 mm. The hook length γ is measured from the vertical hook edge315to the vertical shaft frame220. Embodiments can include a hook length γ between 10 and 100 mm, preferably between 15 and 50 mm, and most preferably between 20 and 40 mm. Embodiments can include 80 mm.

The hook length β and hook height γ can be varied to orient the weight spotter100when in use with a free weight either closer to the user (longer hook length) or closer to the structure (shorter hook length). Variations of the hook arc305will also affect the orientation of the weight spotter100and/or provide more support for heavier free weights.

FIG.3illustrates a side view of the weight spotter. The weight spotter100is formed to hold two opposing angles. The more proximal from the exerciser is the angle formed by the weight cradle103and the body and the more distal formed by the hook101and the weight spotter100. The hook angle304is a function about the hook length302and the hook span303. Like the formation of the weight cradle103weight cradle recess angle206and the hook recess angle205to help engineer where the weight cradle103carries the weight, the formation of the hook angle304also serves orient the how the weight spots when hung onto a weight rack or other crossbar. For example, a longer hook length302with a wider hook span303will help provide additional distance between the weight in the weight cradle103. A narrower span303, however, will bring the weight closer to the rack or crossbar. A longer hook length302will spot closer to the exerciser or facilitate spotting on a rack or crossbar that is taller.

FIG.4illustrates a side view of the weight cradle103. The weight cradle103is configured to create a weight cradle recess402sized to receive a free weight. The weight cradle recess402can be configured to accommodate a dumbbell, a barbell or other free weights of other lengths, sizes or widths. The width of the weight cradle recess402is defined by horizontal distance between the two vertical shaft frames220a,220b. The length of the weight cradle recess402is defined by the horizontal distance between the vertical weight cradle edge330to the vertical shaft frame220.

Embodiments of the length μ of the weight cradle recess402can be between 10 and 100 mm, preferably between 15 and 75 mm, most preferably between 20 and 50 mm. Embodiments can include a length 20 mm of the weight cradle recess402of Some of the features inFIG.4may be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.4.

In addition to the width of the weight cradle recess402, the capacity of the weight cradle recess402to receive a free weight is determined by the weight cradle recess wall204. Embodiments of the weight cradle recess wall404can be concave, flat, squared, or indented to match the grip of a human hand. Embodiments of the weight cradle recess wall404are configured to allow a user to grasp the weight cradle103and the shaft of the free weight disposed therein. The weight cradle arc307is configured to allow a free weight to shift and/or roll within the weight cradle recess402and allow gravity to shift and/or roll the shaft of the free weight to a bottom position or neutral spot generally within the weight cradle recess402. The weight cradle recess wall404can be configured, formed, or prepared at different angles or shapes. For example, a weight cradle recess wall404that is configured at a right angle would hold the weight at a specific point. Similarly, a weight cradle recess wall404can be configured to include a series of obtuse angles to bias the lateral movement of the free weight in the weight cradle103towards a point of low energy.

The weight cradle arc307can be varied to allow the free weight to rest closer to the vertical shaft frame220a,220b, or closer to the vertical weight cradle edge330while the weight spotter100is affixed to a structure with a free weight in the weight cradle103. A weight cradle arc307with a shorter radius will result in a shallower weight cradle recess402, and a weight cradle arc307with a larger radius will result in a larger (longer horizontal length) weight cradle recess402.

In addition to the weight cradle recess wall404, the geometry of the weight cradle recess402is further formed by a hook recess angle205and a weight cradle recess angle206. The geometry of the weight cradle recess angle206, for example, can serve to bias the natural resting place of the weight more towards the lip of the recess202. A steeper weight cradle recess angle206results in a shallower recess202. Conversely, a steeper hook recess angle205biases the weight to rest closer to the hook101when hanging on a cross bar. The relative placement of both angles provides control as to how the weight spotter100hangs when spotting.

The weight cradle recess wall404, and the weight cradle recess402are configured to fit the palm of user. In use, a free weight is positioned or rested in the weight cradle103, the user places their palms in contact with the weight cradle recess wall404and wraps their fingers around the weight cradle recess wall404and the shaft of the free weight. The weight cradle recess wall404is in contact with the user's palm as the user wraps their fingers around the shaft of the free weight in the weight cradle103. The user's hand maintains the shaft of the free weight in contact with the weight cradle103allowing the free weight to be spotted or supported during exercise.

The weight cradle arc307can be configured so that the weight cradle recess wall substantially envelops or surrounds the shaft of the free weight. The weight cradle arc307can be configured to be shallower or deeper in view of the size of the shaft of the free weight. For example, a weight cradle recess wall404configured to substantially encompass the shaft of the weight provides support for the user and requires less grip strength to hold the free weight in the weight cradle103.

Similarly, the hook recess angle205and the weight cradle recess angle206can produce a weight cradle recess wall204formed to secure the weight in the weight cradle by extending the wall to deepen the recess202so that the weight cradle recess wall204wraps substantially around the handle of a weight.

The shape of the weight cradle recess402and weight cradle recess wall404can reduce the motion of the free weight in the weight cradle103. The weight cradle recess402and weight cradle recess wall404can be configured to be in a “V” shape. For example, weight cradle recess402and weight cradle recess wall404can be configured to create a weight cradle recess402with a right angle such that it would resemble a “V” in a side view. Such an embodiment would bias the free weight, when resting in the weight cradle103, to rest at the base (or nadir) of the “V”. The V-shaped weight cradle recess402can form a continuous surface of variable depth and significant bias for the enclosed free weight allowing bars of different sizes, from dumbbells to barbells. In another embodiment, weight cradle recess402and weight cradle recess wall404can be configured to create a semi-cylinder biased to position the free weight at a point of low energy within the weight cradle103. The outer surface of the recess wall404can remain substantially rounded in all embodiments to provide comfort for the user's hand and distribute weight evenly.

For example, the form of both the hook recess angle205and the weight cradle recess angle206can produce a weight cradle recess wall204formed at a right angle such that it would resemble a ‘v’ in a side view. Such an embodiment would bias the weight, when resting in the weight cradle103, to rest at the point of the “V”. The V-shaped weight cradle recess wall204will form a continuous surface of variable depth and significant bias for the enclosed weight allowing bars of different sizes, from dumbbells to barbells. In another embodiment, both the hook recess angle205and the weight cradle recess angle206may produce a weight cradle recess wall204of a semi-cylinder biased to position the weight at a point of low energy within the weight cradle103. The outer surface of the recess wall204, however, can remain substantially rounded to provide comfort for the exerciser's hand and distribute weight evenly across it.

In an embodiment a first vertical shaft frame220aand a second vertical shaft frame220b, extend parallel and vertically from a hook101to a weight cradle103. The hook101is configured to be affixed to a structure and the hook101is further configured to extend vertically upwards and horizontally distal from the first and second vertical shaft frames220a,220b. The hook101is configured to extend from the first vertical shaft frame220ahorizontally to the second vertical shaft frame220b. The horizontal hook frame201extends horizontally from a first vertical hook edge315ato a second vertical hook edge315b. Embodiments of the hook101can be in a semi-circular configuration. The weight cradle103includes weight cradle recess walls404a,404bwhich are configured to receive a shaft of a free weight. The first weight cradle recess wall404aextends vertically downwards and horizontally distal from first vertical shaft frame220a, and a second weight cradle recess wall404bextends extend vertically downwards and horizontally distal from the second vertical shaft frame220b. Embodiments of the weight cradle103can be configured in a semi-circular configuration. In embodiments, the hook101extends horizontally distally from the vertical shaft frames220a220b, and the weight cradle103extends horizontally distally from the vertical shaft frames220a,220bin an opposite horizontal direction from the hook101.

The hook101can extend distally from the first and second vertical shaft frames220a,200ba distance greater than the distance the weight cradle103extends distally from the first and second vertical shaft frames220a,220b. The greater distance or horizontal length of the hook101provides an improved balance for the weight spotter100.

Embodiments of the weight spotter100can be prepared from a single bar that can be bent to create the curves of the weight spotter100. The single bar can run from the vertical weight cradle edge330on one side of weight cradle, thought the weight cradle recess wall404up a first vertical shaft frame220a, into the hook101across the horizontal hook frame201to the second vertical shaft frame220b, down to the weight cradle103to the weigh cradle recess wall404and ending at the opposite vertical weight cradle edge330. Embodiments of the weight spotter can have a continuous rounded frame. A weight cradle body210can then be attached, affixed, configured to receive a curved single bar. The weight cradle body210can be configured to have a bottom portion that is configured to be gripped by a hand of a user and an upper portion that is configured to receive the shaft of a free weight.

FIG.5illustrates an alternative weight spotter500according to an embodiment.FIG.5illustrates a perspective view (FIG.5A), a front view (FIG.5B), a side view (FIG.5C), and top view (FIG.5D) of the alternative embodiment.

FIG.5Aillustrates a perspective view of the weight spotter500including vertical shaft frames520a,520b, hook501, weight cradle503, horizontal hook frame511, weight cradle recess walls504a,504b, a gripper support525, and a weight gripper550. The hook501, horizontal hook frame511, and vertical shaft frames520a,520b, can be configured and prepared as described above for the correlating parts inFIGS.1-4. Some of the features inFIG.5Amay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.5A.

FIG.5Billustrates a front view of the weight spotter500including vertical shaft frames520a,520b, hook501, weight cradle503, horizontal hook frame511, weight cradle recess walls504a,504b, a gripper support525, and a weight gripper550. The hook501, horizontal hook frame511, and vertical shaft frames520a,520b, can be configured and prepared as described above for the correlating parts inFIGS.1-4. Some of the features inFIG.5Bmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.5B.

FIG.5Cillustrates a side view of the weight spotter500including vertical shaft frame520, hook501, weight cradle503, hook vertical apex513, vertical hook edge515, vertical weight cradle edge530, weight cradle recess walls504. Some of the features inFIG.5Cmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.5C.

FIG.5Dillustrates a top view of the weight spotter500including hook501, weight cradle503, horizontal hook frame511, weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. Some of the features inFIG.5Dmay be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.5D.

The embodiment illustrated inFIG.5further contains gripper support525that extends horizontally from vertical shaft frame520ato vertical shaft frame502b. Embodiments of the gripper support525can have a horizontal length equal to the distance between the vertical shaft frames520a,520bas described above. The width of the gripper support525can be between 2 and 30 mm, preferably between 3 and 20 mm, and most preferably between 5 and 15 mm. Embodiments can include a gripper support525with a width of 8 mm. The gripper support525is configured to work in conjunction with the weight gripper550.

The weight gripper550is configured to slide and/or move vertically along the vertical shaft frames520a,520b. The weight gripper550can be configured to slide and/or move along the outside of the vertical shaft frames520a,520bor the weight gripper550can be disposed with apertures (seeFIG.6) that are configured to receive the vertical shaft frames520a,520b. Embodiments of weight gripper550can be die-cast, molded, or prepared by other suitable methods in accordance with the present description. The weight gripper550can be prepared as one piece or as two halves that are secured onto the vertical shaft frames520a,520band secured by a lock, snap, adhesive, bolt, rivet, or other securing apparatus or material. In an embodiments springs or other movement restrictive components are affixed, attached, or combined with the vertical shaft frames520a,520bbetween the weight gripper550and the gripper support525. In an embodiment, a resistance component, such as a spring (not show) provide resistance when a user grips the gripper support525and the weight gripper550and pulls the weight gripper550vertically upwards towards the gripper support525. When the user releases the weight gripper550the springs cause the weight gripper550to extend vertically downwards towards the weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. The movement of the weight gripper550along the vertical shaft frames520a,520bis configured to allow a free weight shaft to be locked in place between the weight gripper550and the weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. In this embodiment the user is not required to use additional strength to hold the shaft of the free weight and the weight cradle103together while using the weight spotter500.

In the embodiment depicted inFIG.5, the weight spotter500does not include a weight cradle body210located between the weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.5the weight gripper550is retracted along the vertical shaft frames520a,520band the shaft of the free weight is placed or rested in the weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. After the user releases the tension on the weight gripper550(by releasing their grip on the gripper support525) the weight gripper550holds the free weight in a generally static position in the weight cradle503.

FIG.6illustrates a weight gripper650, according to an embodiment. The weight gripper650illustrated inFIG.6includes weight gripper apertures620a,620b, a weight gripper handle630, weight gripper vertical frames640a,640b, weight grip support frames660a,660b, and weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670b. The two weight gripper apertures620a,620bare configured to receive the vertical shaft frames520a,520b, and allow the weight gripper650to move vertically up and down the vertical shaft frames520a,520b. The weight gripper handle630provides support to the weight gripper650and provides a handle for the user to grip or grasp the weight gripper650and retract it vertically upwards towards the gripper support525to allow a free weight shaft to be placed in the weight cradle503. The weight gripper handle630and the gripper support525can be configured with finger and palm indents to assist with gripping of the weight gripper handle630and the gripper support525. The weight gripper vertical frames640a,640band weight gripper support frames660a,660bare configured to provide strength, support and structure to the weight gripper650. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.6the weight gripper vertical frames640a,640bare configured to receive the vertical shaft frames520a,520b. Embodiments can be prepared without the weight gripper support frames660a,660bin embodiments that provide sufficient rigidity, strength and support with only the weight gripper vertical frames640a,640b.

The weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670bare configured to hold or lock the free weight shaft between the weight gripper650and the weight cradle recess walls504a,504b. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.6the weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670bextend generally horizontally from the weight gripper vertical frames640a,640bto the weight gripper support frames660a,660b. The horizontal length of the weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670bis configured to match or be generally equal to the distance from the vertical shaft frames520a,520bto the vertical weight cradle edge530. The weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670bcan be configured to have a indentation, recess or curve that allows a rounded free weight shaft to easily, readily, comfortable be locked between the weight cradle recess walls504a,504band the weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670b. Embodiments of the weight gripper650can include a unitary structure where the weight gripper handle630, the weight gripper vertical frames640a,640b, the weight gripper support frames660a,660b, and weight gripper shaft mounts670a,670bare a single molded unit. Alternatively, the weight gripper650can be configured from separate components. The weight gripper handle625and/or gripper support525can be configured to include finger indents or indentations to assist the user's grip. Some of the features inFIG.6may be the same as or similar to some of the features in the other FIGs. described herein as noted by same and/or similar reference characters, unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, reference may be made to features shown in any of the other FIGs. described herein and not shown inFIG.6.

FIG.7illustrates a illustrates a weight spotter700, according to an embodiment. The weight spotter700as illustrated inFIG.7includes a weight gripper750holding or locking a free weight790in the weight cradle703. The weight spotter700further includes a weight gripper handle730, weight gripper vertical frames740a,740b, weight grip support frames760a,760b, and weight gripper shaft mounts770a,770b. As discussed inFIG.6, two weight gripper apertures720a,720bare configured to receive the vertical shaft frames720a,720b, and allow the weight gripper750to move vertically up and down the vertical shaft frames720a,720b. The weight gripper handle730provides support to the weight gripper750and provides a handle for the user to grip or grasp the weight gripper750and retract it vertically upwards towards the gripper support725to allow the free weight790to be placed in the weight cradle703. The weight gripper handle730and the gripper support730can be configured with finger and palm indents to assist with gripping of the weight gripper handle730and the gripper support725.FIG.7further illustrates resistance component, such as springs707A,707B affixed, surrounding, and/or attached to the vertical shaft frame720a,720bthat provide resistance to the weight gripper750locking the free weight790in the weight cradle703and/or between the weight gripper750and the weight cradle recess walls704a,704b.

FIG.8illustrates a user's operation of a weight spotter100. In step one (801) the user picks up the weight spotter100and user affixes the hook101onto a structure, crossbar, free weight shaft, or similar structure to secure the weight spotter100in a position to exercise. In step two (802), the user deposits, places, attaches, rests or affixes a free weight into the weight cradle103. Depositing the free weight can include placing a single barbell into the weight cradle103of a single weight spotter100, placing two dumbbells into the weight cradles103of two weight spotters100, or placing a barbell across two weight cradles103. In step three (803) the user gets into position to perform the exercise. The position can be laying on a bench to bench-press dumbbells, sitting on a chair to military press a barbell, or other alternative position to lift the free weight and weight spotter. In step four (804) the user grips the weight spotter100by the weight cradles103wrapping their fingers around the weight cradle103and the shaft of the free weight to maintain the free weight's contact with the weight cradle103. Depending on the exercise, the user can grip two weight cradles103supporting two dumbbells, two weight cradles103supporting a single barbell, or one large (wide) weight cradle103supporting a single weight, such as a barbell or a dumbbell. In step five (805), when the exercise is complete, the user orients the weight spotter100and free weight by twisting the weight cradle103to engage the hook101onto the structure. In step six (806) the user releases their grip on the weight cradle103when the hook101is secured to the structure.

The method can include placing a free weight in a weight cradle of a weight spotter, where the weight cradle is configured in a semi-circular configuration to receive the shaft of a free weight. Attaching a hook of the weight spotter to a structure, where the hook is configured in a semi-circular configuration to allow the hook to attach to a structure. Gripping the shaft of the free weight and the weight cradle in the hand of a user and pressing the shaft of the free weight against the weight cradle. Lifting the weight spotter away from the structure to allow the user to perform exercises. Replacing the weigh spotter on the structure via attaching the hook to the structure. Releasing the grip on the shaft of the free weight and the weight cradle. Placing a second free weight on a second weight spotter. Attaching a hook of the second weight spotter to a structure. Gripping the shaft of the first and second free weight and the first and second weight cradle in the hands of a user and pressing the shafts of the free weights against the weight cradles. Lifting the weight spotters away from the structure to allow the user to perform exercises. Replacing the weigh spotters on the structure via attaching the hooks to the structure and releasing the grip on the shafts of the free weights and the weight cradles. In an alternative embodiment the method can include prior to placing the free weight in the weight cradle of the weight spotter, grasping a weight gripper and a gripper support in the hands of a user; compressing a resistance component and retracting the weight gripper vertically upwards towards the gripper support; and releasing the weight gripper allowing the resistance component to lock the weight gripper onto the shaft of the free weight. In another embodiment, the user may wraps his fingers around the dumbbell handle and not the cradle. The weigh gripper may maintain or keep the dumbbell in contact with the cradle. This may provided increased comfort for the user.

A feature illustrated in one of the figures may be the same as or similar to a feature illustrated in another of the figures. Similarly, a feature described in connection with one of the figures may be the same as or similar to a feature described in connection with another of the figures. The same or similar features may be noted by the same or similar reference characters unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, the description of a particular figure may refer to a feature not shown in the particular figure. The feature may be illustrated in and/or further described in connection with another figure.

Elements of processes (i.e. methods) described herein may be executed in one or more ways such as by a human, by a processing device, by mechanisms operating automatically or under human control, and so forth. Additionally, although various elements of a process may be depicted in the figures in a particular order, the elements of the process may be performed in one or more different orders without departing from the substance and spirit of the disclosure herein.

The foregoing description sets forth numerous specific details such as examples of specific systems, components, methods and so forth, in order to provide a good understanding of several implementations. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that at least some implementations may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail or are presented in simple block diagram format in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present implementations. Thus, the specific details set forth above are merely exemplary. Particular implementations may vary from these exemplary details and still be contemplated to be within the scope of the present implementations.

Related elements in the examples and/or embodiments described herein may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity and clarity, related elements may not be redundantly explained. Instead, the use of a same, similar, and/or related element names and/or reference characters may cue the reader that an element with a given name and/or associated reference character may be similar to another related element with the same, similar, and/or related element name and/or reference character in an example explained elsewhere herein. Elements specific to a given example may be described regarding that particular example. A person having ordinary skill in the art will understand that a given element need not be the same and/or similar to the specific portrayal of a related element in any given figure or example in order to share features of the related element.

It is to be understood that the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many other implementations will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. The scope of the present implementations should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

The foregoing disclosure encompasses multiple distinct examples with independent utility. While these examples have been disclosed in a particular form, the specific examples disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter disclosed herein includes novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above both explicitly and inherently. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims is to be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more of such elements.

As used herein “same” means sharing all features and “similar” means sharing a substantial number of features or sharing materially important features even if a substantial number of features are not shared. As used herein “may” should be interpreted in a permissive sense and should not be interpreted in an indefinite sense. Additionally, use of “is” regarding examples, elements, and/or features should be interpreted to be definite only regarding a specific example and should not be interpreted as definite regarding every example. Furthermore, references to “the disclosure” and/or “this disclosure” refer to the entirety of the writings of this document and the entirety of the accompanying illustrations, which extends to all the writings of each subsection of this document, including the Title, Background, Brief description of the Drawings, Detailed Description, Claims, Abstract, and any other document and/or resource incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein regarding a list, “and” forms a group inclusive of all the listed elements. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, and D is an example that includes A, includes B, includes C, and also includes D. As used herein regarding a list, “or” forms a list of elements, any of which may be included. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, or D is an example that includes any of the elements A, B, C, and D. Unless otherwise stated, an example including a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude other examples that include various combinations of some or all of the alternatively-inclusive elements. An example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements includes at least one element of the listed elements. However, an example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude another example that includes all of the listed elements. And, an example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude another example that includes a combination of some of the listed elements. As used herein regarding a list, “and/or” forms a list of elements inclusive alone or in any combination. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, and/or D is an example that may include: A alone; A and B; A, B and C; A, B, C, and D; and so forth. The bounds of an “and/or” list are defined by the complete set of combinations and permutations for the list.

Where multiples of a particular element are shown in a FIG., and where it is clear that the element is duplicated throughout the FIG., only one label may be provided for the element, despite multiple instances of the element being present in the FIG. Accordingly, other instances in the FIG. of the element having identical or similar structure and/or function may not have been redundantly labeled. A person having ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein redundant and/or duplicated elements of the same FIG. Despite this, redundant labeling may be included where helpful in clarifying the structure of the depicted examples.

The Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed examples that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Examples embodied in other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same example or a different example and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the examples described herein.