Exercise System with Positioning Markings

An exercise system with positioning markings for aiding in identifying proper positioning of the body while performing a wide range of exercises. The exercise system with positioning markings generally includes a carriage slidably secured between a pair of rails. A first platform may be positioned at a first end of the exercise machine and a second platform may be positioned at a second end of the exercise machine. One or more handle assemblies may also be provided for use in various exercises. A longitudinal carriage marking extends between the first and second ends of the carriage and a plurality of cross carriage markings extend perpendicular to the longitudinal carriage marking to ease identification of different points and areas on the carriage during exercise. Platform markings and handle markings may also be included. Reference characters may also be positioned on or around the various markings to aid in identifying their locations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views,FIGS. 1 through 24illustrate a exercise system with positioning markings10, which comprises an exercise machine20such as a Pilates machine which includes a carriage30slidably secured between a pair of rails25,26. A first platform60may be positioned at a first end22of the exercise machine20and a second platform70may be positioned at a second end23of the exercise machine20. One or more handle assemblies50,53,56,57may also be provided for use in various exercises. A longitudinal carriage marking40extends between the first and second ends33,34of the carriage30and a plurality of cross carriage markings41,42,43,44,45,46,47extend perpendicular to the longitudinal carriage marking40to ease identification of different points and areas on the carriage30during exercise. Platform markings66,67,76,77and handle markings51,54may also be included. Reference characters49,68,78may also be positioned on or around the various markings41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77to aid in identifying their locations.

B. Exercise Machine

FIG. 1illustrates an exemplary exercise machine20for use with the present invention. In particular, the present invention is preferably utilized within a Pilates exercise machine20as illustrated throughout the figures. While the figures and description illustrate and describe the exercise machine20as being comprised of a Pilates machine, it is appreciated that the present invention may be utilized in combination with other exercise machines which would benefit from markings40and/or characters49to aid with positioning of different parts of the body while exercising.

It should be further noted that while certain features and accessories of an exercise machine20are shown in the drawing, these references are for illustrative purposes only, and are not meant to be limiting. By virtue of the design fundamentals of exercise machines20, and because a progressive resistance means is incorporated into the exercise machine20as a primary force against which exercises are performed, any number of known or unknown accessories could be added to the apparatuses with the same effect as the accessories and features shown.

As shown throughout the figures, an exemplary exercise machine20includes a frame21having a first end22and a second end23. The exercise machine20includes at least one rail25,26extending between the first and second ends22,23on which a carriage30slidably moves. In a preferred embodiment shown in the figures, a first rail25and a second rail26each extend between the first and second ends22,23of the frame21in a parallel manner with respect to each other.

A carriage30is movably secured to the rails25,26such that the carriage30may be slid, rolled, or otherwise moved between the first end22and the second end23of the frame21. The rails25,26are oriented longitudinally along the moving axis of the exercise machine20. One or more springs27are included to impart a biasing force against which the carriage30is moved during exercise. For some exercises, no springs27may be engaged, and for other exercises, one, or a plurality of springs27may be engaged to create the preferred resistance force. In its resting state, the carriage is positioned substantially closer to the first end22of the exercise machine20.

FIG. 2best illustrates the overall structure of the carriage30used with the present invention, with carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49positioned on an upper surface31of the carriage30to aid with performing a wide range of exercises.FIG. 3provides an illustration of an embodiment of the present invention which solely utilizes carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47.FIG. 4illustrates an embodiment of the present invention which solely utilizes carriage reference characters49.

As shown throughout the figures, the carriage30includes an upper surface31, which contains the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49, and a lower surface32, which is adapted to move across the rails25,26of the exercise machine20. In one embodiment, the carriage30may include rollers for moving across the rails25,26of the exercise machine20. The overall structure and size of the carriage30may vary depending on the type of exercise machine20it is being used in combination with as well as depending on the needs of the exerciser12and particular application for which it is being used.

The carriage30may optionally include a pair of grab bars37to aid in gripping the carriage30during exercise. As best shown inFIGS. 1-3, a first grab bar37is positioned at a first side35of the carriage30and a second grab bar37is positioned at a second side36of the carriage30.

The carriage30may also include one or more carriage openings38penetrating through an otherwise substantially solid platform. The carriage openings38may be used to access, attach or remove various accessories to the carriage30, but may also be considered a carriage marking40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47for some uses. During certain exercises, the exerciser12would be instructed to place their hands or feet through the carriage openings38, or against the walls of the carriage openings38as grabbing points in order to perform an exercise.

The numbering, placement, size, shape, and configuration of the carriage openings38for vary in different embodiments of the present invention. Thus, the exemplary figures should not be construed as limiting on the scope of the present invention with respect to those qualities of the carriage openings30. In the embodiment shown in the figures, a carriage opening38is included at each other corner of the carriage30. Additional carriage openings38are also included between the first and second sides35,36of the carriage30adjacent to its first end33.

D. Carriage Markings and Reference Characters

The carriage30of the present invention will preferably include a plurality of carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and/or carriage reference characters49as shown in the figures. Use of the terms “markings” and “reference characters” throughout the present disclosure (including with respect to markings and reference characters on the handle assemblies50,53,56,57and/or platforms60,70) shall have the same effect as other common terms such as signs, indicators, indicia, characteristics, features, images or labels applied to an exercise machine20as reference points for an exerciser12to position or engage with the machine20in order to properly perform an exercise.

Carriage reference characters49include numbers49placed upon the upper surface31of the carriage30, such numbers49indicating locations upon the carriage30at which parts of the body should be placed in order to properly perform an exercise. The use of only numbers49, or only lines40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47, or only other markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49such as symbols may be used at the exclusion of other types of markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49, or any combination of markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49may be used together.

Markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and/or reference characters49may be oriented such that they may be read and understood by an exerciser12positioned at the first end33of the carriage30, at the second end34of the carriage30or from any location upon or around the carriage30. There is no limitation to the position or orientation of the markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and/or reference characters49so long as they can be reasonably viewed and understood by an exerciser12.

Further, although not shown, markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49may be of one or more colors so that they are readily visible against the color of the exercise machine20, and certain markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49may be different colors from other markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49. Instructions may refer to one color or the other color for placement of the body, but it should be understood that unique colors are considered as markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49that may be different from the other visual structures of the markings/reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49.

FIG. 2best illustrates exemplary carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49positioned along the upper surface31of the carriage30. The carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47are utilized in determining proper placement of various body parts of the exerciser12while performing various exercises. The shape, size, configuration and number of carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47is exemplary and should not be construed as limiting on the scope of the present invention.

The carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47may be utilized to define one or more zones upon the upper surface31of the carriage30. These zones may be referenced by instructions or by the exerciser12in body positioning during performance of various exercises. Each zone may be identified by a reference character49to ease identification of the relevant zone when providing instructions to an exerciser12.

The carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47may be comprised of any type of marking or indicia, including printed lines, grooves, ribs, stickers, decals, and the like which are capable of identifying an area or location on the upper surface31of the carriage30. While the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47are illustrated as lines traversing the upper surface31of the carriage30in various directions, the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47need not necessarily be comprised of straight lines. Carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47shown includes lines placed along the longitudinal centerline parallel to the moving axis of the carriage30upon the rails25,26of an exercise machine20, as well as lines perpendicular to the centerline. However, carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47may be a single line or multiple lines.

In a preferred embodiment as best shown inFIG. 2, the carriage30includes a longitudinal carriage marking40which bisects the upper surface31between its first side35and second side36. The longitudinal carriage marking40may be comprised of a line, lines or other feature which indicates a central, longitudinal area of the upper surface31of the carriage30. The longitudinal carriage marking40preferably extends from the first end33to the second end34of the carriage30at the approximate mid-point between its first side35and second side36. The longitudinal carriage marking40is preferably oriented longitudinally along the moving axis of the exercise machine20.

As shown inFIG. 2, the carriage30also preferably includes one or more cross carriage markings41,42,43,44,45,46,47which each extend in a perpendicular direction with respect to the longitudinal carriage marking40. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, a first cross carriage marking41extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ⅛ of the length of the carriage30. A second cross carriage marking42extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ¼ of the length of the carriage30. A third cross carriage marking43extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ⅜ of the length of the carriage30.

A fourth cross carriage marking44extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ½ of the length of the carriage30. A fifth cross carriage marking45extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ⅝ of the length of the carriage30. A sixth cross carriage marking46extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ¾ of the length of the carriage30. A seventh cross carriage marking47extends perpendicularly across the longitudinal carriage marking40at a distance from its first end33which is approximately ⅞ of the length of the carriage30.

The lengths of each of the cross carriage markings41,42,43,44,45,46,47may vary. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the second, fourth, and sixth cross carriage markings42,44,46each extend across the upper surface31of the carriage30for substantially the full length between its first side35and second side36. The first, third, fifth, and seventh cross carriage markings41,43,45,47each extend only a short distance in either direction from the longitudinal carriage marking40.

Carriage reference characters49may also be positioned at various locations on the upper surface31of the carriage30as best shown inFIG. 2. The reference characters49may be comprised of numbers, letters, or any other symbols capable of identifying different points on the upper surface31of the carriage30. The reference characters49may be utilized to identify the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47during instruction of exercises being performed on the exercise machine20. The spacing, size, font, and nature of the reference characters49may vary in different embodiments.

In a preferred embodiment as shown inFIG. 2, a pair of reference characters49are utilized to represent the cross carriage markings41,47closest to either end33,34of the carriage30. A reference character49identified by the number “1” is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the seventh cross carriage marking47and the longitudinal carriage marking40. A reference character49identified by the number “11” is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the first cross carriage marking41and the longitudinal carriage marking40.

A plurality of reference characters49are preferably positioned along the sixth cross carriage marking49. A reference character49identified by the number “2” is positioned along the sixth cross carriage marking46adjacent to the first side35of the carriage30. A reference character49identified by the number “3” is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the sixth cross carriage marking46and the longitudinal carriage marking40. A reference character49identified by the number “4” is positioned along the sixth cross carriage marking46adjacent to the second side36of the carriage30.

A plurality of reference characters49are also preferably positioned along the fourth cross carriage marking46. A reference character49identified by the number “5” is positioned along the fourth cross carriage marking44adjacent to the first side35of the carriage30. A reference character49identified by the number “6” is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the fourth cross carriage marking44and the longitudinal carriage marking40. A reference character49identified by the number “7” is positioned along the fourth cross carriage marking44adjacent to the second side36of the carriage30.

A plurality of reference characters49are also preferably positioned along the second cross carriage marking42. A reference character49identified by the number “8” is positioned along the second cross carriage marking42adjacent to the first side35of the carriage30. A reference character49identified by the number “9” is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the second cross carriage marking42and the longitudinal carriage marking40. A reference character49identified by the number “10” is positioned along the second cross carriage marking42adjacent to the second side36of the carriage30.

It should be stressed that the figures and preceding description are merely for exemplary purposes. The positioning of the carriage reference characters49may vary widely in different embodiments of the present invention, so long as the reference characters49may be utilized to identify various locations, markings, or zones on the upper surface31of the carriage30.

E. Handle Assemblies and Handle Markings

One or more handle assemblies50,53,56,57may be located on the exercise machine20. The handle assemblies50,53,56,57may be comprised of various types of handles known in the art and may be adapted to be grasped by the hands of an exerciser12or to be rested upon by various other body parts of the exerciser12, such as feet or legs.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, a first handle assembly50is positioned adjacent to the first rail25and first end22of the exercise machine20. A second handle assembly53is positioned adjacent to the second rail26and first end22of the exercise machine20. A third handle assembly56is positioned adjacent to the first rail25and second end23of the exercise machine20and a fourth handle assembly57is positioned adjacent to the second rail26and second end23of the exercise machine20.

The handle assemblies50,53,56,57may contain various adjusting features that allow them to be rotated, pivoted, or otherwise moved in order to perform certain exercises, or to move them out of the way to perform other exercises. Because certain exercises require the exerciser12to grasp the handles as certain points, handle markings51,54may be placed upon the handles.

One or more of the handle assemblies50,53,56,57may include handle markings51,54as best shown inFIG. 1. These markings51,54are novel improvements over traditional exercise machines20. Exercisers12are instructed to grab the handle assemblies50,53,56,57at specific locations to perform certain exercises properly and safely. Use of the handle markings51,54by an exerciser12is intended to correlate to the proper positioning of the body during the performance of any specifically instructed exercise intended to strength or increase flexibility of the exerciser's12body.

As shown in the figures, a first handle marking51is positioned on the first handle assembly50and a second handle marking54is positioned on the second handle assembly53. While the figures do not illustrate handle markings51,54on the third or fourth handle assemblies56,57, it should be appreciated that any or all of the handle assemblies50,53,56,57may include handle markings51,54.

It should be appreciated that the nature of the markings51,54may vary widely in different embodiments. The markings51,54may be comprised of lines, double lines as shown, or any other number of lines. The markings51,54may be comprised of decals, stickers, notches, grooves, or any other feature which would serve to identify a position on the handle assembly50,53,56,57.

The figures illustrate each handle marking51,54as being comprised of a pair of parallel lines extending around the respective handle assembly50,53. It should be known that although a double-line handle marking51,54is shown only on the pair of handle assemblies50,53at the first end22of the exercise machine20, handle markings51,54may take any of the previously described forms, and one or more handle markings51,54may be placed upon any or all of the handle assemblies50,53,56,57located at either end22,23of the exercise machine20, or upon the grab bars37of the carriage30.

A first platform60may be located at the first end22of the exercise machine20. The upper surface61of the first platform60lies substantially in the same horizontal plane as the upper surface31of the carriage30, and in some exercises is used to support the exerciser12. As will be shown, the first platform60may be leaned upon, stood upon, or otherwise used by en exerciser12to perform an exercise.

The first platform60may include first platform markings66,67and/or first platform reference characters68. Exercisers12are instructed to position themselves upon certain of the first platform markings66,67and/or first platform reference characters68for and during the performance of certain exercises. The nature of the first platform markings66,67and first platform reference characters68may vary widely, and statements made above with reference to the nature and configuration of the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49apply equally to the platform markings66,67.

In a preferred embodiment as best shown inFIG. 1, the first platform60includes a first platform longitudinal marking66which bisects the first platform60between its first side64and second side65. The first platform longitudinal marking66may be comprised of a line, lines or other feature which indicates a central, longitudinal area of the upper surface61of the first platform60. The first platform longitudinal marking66preferably extends from the first end62to the second end63of the first platform60at the approximate mid-point between its first side64and second side65. The first platform longitudinal marking66is preferably oriented longitudinally along the moving axis of the exercise machine20.

As shown inFIG. 1, the first platform60may also include one or more first platform cross markings67. The first platform cross marking67extends perpendicular to the first platform longitudinal marking67and may be comprised of a line, lines, or other feature which is visible and identifiable by an exerciser while the present invention is in use.

First platform reference characters68may also be positioned at various locations on the upper surface61of the first platform60as best shown inFIG. 1. The first platform reference characters68may be comprised of numbers, letters, or any other symbols capable of identifying different points on the upper surface61of the first platform60. The first platform reference characters68may be utilized to identify the first platform markings66,67during instruction of exercises being performed on the exercise machine20. The spacing, size, font, and nature of the first platform reference characters68may vary in different embodiments.

A second platform70may be located at the second end23of the exercise machine20. The upper surface71of the second platform70lies substantially in the same horizontal plane as the upper surface31of the carriage30, and in some exercises is used to support the exerciser12. As will be shown, the second platform70may be leaned upon, stood upon, or otherwise used by en exerciser12to perform an exercise.

The second platform70may include second platform markings76,77and/or second platform reference characters78. Exercisers12are instructed to position themselves upon certain of the second platform markings76,77and/or second platform reference characters78for and during the performance of certain exercises. The nature of the second platform markings76,77and second platform reference characters78may vary widely, and statements made above with reference to the nature and configuration of the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49apply equally to the second platform markings76,77.

In a preferred embodiment as best shown inFIG. 1, the second platform70includes a second platform longitudinal marking76which bisects the second platform70between its first side74and second side75. The second platform longitudinal marking76may be comprised of a line, lines or other feature which indicates a central, longitudinal area of the upper surface71of the second platform70. The second platform longitudinal marking76preferably extends from the first end72to the second end73of the second platform70at the approximate mid-point between its first side74and second side75. The second platform longitudinal marking76is preferably oriented longitudinally along the moving axis of the exercise machine20.

As shown inFIG. 1, the second platform70may also include one or more second platform cross markings77. The second platform cross marking77extends perpendicular to the second platform longitudinal marking77and may be comprised of a line, lines, or other feature which is visible and identifiable by an exerciser12while the present invention is in use.

Second platform reference characters78may also be positioned at various locations on the upper surface71of the second platform70as best shown inFIG. 1. The second platform reference characters78may be comprised of numbers, letters, or any other symbols capable of identifying different points on the upper surface71of the second platform70. The second platform reference characters78may be utilized to identify the second platform markings76,77during instruction of exercises being performed on the exercise machine20. The spacing, size, font, and nature of the second platform reference characters78may vary in different embodiments.

Although two platforms60,70are shown, it should be noted that an exercise machine20may have only one platform60, two platforms60,70, or in some instances, no platforms. In some embodiments, additional platforms may be included. During a workout, exercisers12would be instructed to use certain of these platform markings66,67,76,77and/or platform reference characters68,78to properly and safely perform certain exercises.

G. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

An instruction is a method of teaching an exercise, such instructions being able to take one of many forms, such as verbal instructions from a person teaching an exercise, written instructions, instructions as indicia, or recorded voice, video, or multimedia instructions.

With regard to describing the human anatomy, and positioning of the human body upon or engaging with an exercise machine20, it should be noted that while terms such as body, hands, feet, shoulders, head, knees, elbows and other references to parts of the human body are made, these anatomical references are not meant to be limiting, and some exercises may require specific use of or placement of other parts of the body in order to properly follow instructions, or to efficiently or safely use an exercise machine20.

It should be noted that not all muscles engaged in the referenced exercises are mentioned, however, to broadly illustrate the major muscles engaged during an exercise, some muscles are specifically referenced. The lack of exhaustive detailing of the muscles engaged in any illustrative exercises does not mean that other muscles are not engaged in the exercise.

Still further, although representative exercise sequences are listed for many of the exercises and exercise alignment positions shown in the drawings, these sequences are merely presented to illustrate the inextricable connection between positioning of the body upon certain indicia, and the proper performance of the exercise following instructions that reference the indicia.

The different markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77and/or reference characters49,68,78of the present invention may be utilized to identify exercise alignment positions that may be referenced for placement of various parts of the body near, around, or upon certain locations on the upper surface31of the carriage30. Other sequences may replace the sequenced references without deviating from the scope and intent of indicia-referenced exercise sequences.

While many of the illustrations and descriptions reference different markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77and/or reference characters49,68,78that correlate to positioning of an exerciser12on an exercise machine20based on their height, or relative size, the size reference is not meant to be limiting, and the use of markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77and/or reference characters49,68,78may apply to the proper positioning for an exercise regardless of the size or height of an individual exerciser12.

It must also be realized, and would be instantly obvious to one skilled in the art, that the types of exercises that can be performed upon an exercise machine20, and the variations of those exercises are innumerable, and that regardless of the type of exercise, there exists an optimum positioning of the body upon the exercise machine20in order to achieve maximum benefit from the exercise, while minimizing the occurrence of injury. The markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77and/or reference characters49,68,78shown, when used to position the body upon, or engaging with the exercise machine20, represent a new and novel system and method to safely and efficiently performing a wide range of exercises.

As will become obvious to one skilled in the art, the proper positioning of different height exercisers12on the same exercise machine20requires importantly different starting alignment positions in order to safely and efficiently complete, or instruct on the performance of the exercise. Whether the instructions are being delivered to the exerciser12verbally by an instructor, or whether they were printed on an instruction page, the exerciser12will know precisely how to position themselves on the appropriate markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,51,54,66,67,76,77to perform the particular exercise.

FIG. 5is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an upper body pushing type of exercise while positioned face-up with their back laying upon the carriage30and their hands grasping the third and fourth handle assemblies56,57. This exercise emulates an above-the-head barbell press often performed by weightlifters in a gym, but has the added advantage of safety.

In order to perform the exercise shown, the exerciser12is instructed to first lay upon the carriage30facing away upwardly. The instructions direct the exerciser12to position their shoulder blades upon a specific cross carriage marking41,42,43,44,45,46,47on the carriage30, with their body centered along the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of shorter stature, they may be instructed to place their shoulder blades over the sixth cross carriage marking46. For exercisers12of a medium stature, they may be instructed to place their shoulder blades over the fifth cross carriage marking45. For exercisers12of a taller statute, they may be instructed to place their shoulder blades over the fourth cross carriage marking44.FIG. 6illustrates an exerciser12of shorter stature with their shoulder blades positioned over the sixth cross carriage marking46.

In any case, the carriage reference characters49may be utilized to aid in describing proper positioning to the exerciser12. The carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47and carriage reference characters49ensure proper body placement upon the carriage30to carry out the exercise shown. With the body properly positioned on the carriage30, the third and fourth handle assemblies56,57may be grasped with the palms facing upwardly while the bottoms of the person's12feet will be positioned at the first end33of the carriage30, with the knees bent for maximum comfort. The exerciser12may begin the exercise by pushing with the hands against the handle assemblies56,57, thereby exerting force against the springs27, and moving the carriage30in a direction towards the feet. This exercise works the shoulders, triceps, upper chest, and a variety of smaller muscles. The exerciser12may continue pushing against the handle assemblies56,57until the arms are fully extended above the head, and then hold the position for a set amount of time. After the hold, the exerciser12may slowly release the pressure on the handle assemblies56,57and allow the carriage30to return to its resting position. This sequence may be repeated a number of times prior to finishing the routine with the carriage30in the starting position.

FIG. 7is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing a middle body pulling type of exercise while positioned with their knees on the instructed cross carriage markings41,42,43,44,45,46,47, and equally spaced on either side of the longitudinal carriage marking40of the carriage30.

Although instructions are not shown, to perform the exercise shown, the exerciser12is instructed to refer to the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47, such as by reference to the carriage reference characters49, and substantially follow the sequence described herein. First, facing the first end22of the exercise machine20, the knees are placed on the instructed cross carriage marking41,42,43,44,45,46,47, and spaced equally on either side of the longitudinal carriage marking40.FIG. 8illustrates one such positioning of the knees on the carriage30.

For exercisers12of a shorter stature, the knees are placed on the second cross carriage marking42. For exercisers12of a medium stature, the knees are placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44. For exercisers12of a taller stature, the knees are placed on the sixth cross carriage marking46. With each hand, the first and second handle assemblies50,53are grasped and the exercise is begun by pulling on the handle assemblies50,53using the stomach muscles to move the carriage30toward the hands. The spring27tension selected should allow the knees to be brought forward such that the exerciser12is kneeling upright at the end of the first half of the exercise cycle. If this is too difficult, or if it is too easy, the spring27tension may be adjusted. To complete the second half of the exercise cycle, the spring tension is allowed to pull the carriage30back towards the second end23, while resistance is applied to the retracting carriage30with the stomach muscles. The exercise may then be repeated.

FIG. 9is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while positioned with their back laying upon the carriage30, with their feet positioned upon the third and fourth handle assemblies56,57. The illustrative exercise is a lower body pushing exercise that engages the quadriceps, gluteus maximus, the external abdominal oblique and erector spinae, the gastrocnemius and soleus, as well as smaller muscles of muscles of the leg and lower back. Incorrect positioning prior to the performance of this exercise carries the danger of hyperextension of the erector spinae, or the inefficient working of the larger gluteal or leg muscles.

To perform this exercise, the exerciser12will first lay upon the carriage30with the spine located along the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of a shorter stature, the shoulders are placed on the fifth cross carriage marking45. For exercisers12of a medium stature, the shoulders are placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44. For exercisers12of a taller stature, the shoulders are placed on the third and fourth handle assemblies56,57and the legs are pushed so that the carriage30moves along the rails25,26against the spring27resistance.FIG. 10illustrates one such positioning of the shoulders on the carriage30.

Once the legs are fully extended, the buttocks is raised, which tightens the back and buttocks muscles. The position is held for a period of time. The buttocks are then slowly lowered back to the carriage30and pressure is slowly released on the leg muscles so that the carriage30begins to move along the rails25,26back to toward the first end22of the exercise machine20. This exercise may then be repeated.

FIG. 11is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while positioning the left knee upon an instructed cross carriage marking41,42,43,44,45,46,47with the lower leg resting on the carriage30. The right foot is positioned upon the floor, while the hands grasp the first and second handle assemblies50,53.

The exercise being performed in the illustration is a whole body pulling exercise that works the rhomboid, erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, serratur posterios, gluteus medius, maximus, vastus lateralis, gracillis, and other muscles. Incorrect positioning prior to the performance of this exercise carries the danger of hyperextension of the adductor magnus, adductor longus, adductor brevis, pectineus, and gracilis, together commonly referred to as the groin muscles, or the inefficient working of the larger gluteal or leg muscles.

This exercise may be conducted two times; once for the right side, and once for the left side of the body. For an exerciser12of shorter stature, the knee is placed on the third cross carriage marking43either to the right or left of the longitudinal carriage marking40. For an exerciser12of medium stature, the knee is placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44either to the right or left of the longitudinal carriage marking40. For an exerciser12of taller stature, the knee is placed on the fifth cross carriage marking45either to the right or left of the longitudinal carriage marking40. The placement of the knee on either side of the longitudinal carriage marking40is determined by which knee is being used: the right knee will be placed to the right of the longitudinal carriage marking40and the left knee will be placed to the left of the longitudinal carriage marking40.FIG. 12illustrates one such positioning upon the carriage30.

The foot of the leg not placed on the carriage30is positioned on the floor halfway between the carriage30and the first end22of the exercise machine20. The exercise is begun by pulling slowly with the hands grasping the handle assemblies50,53, and at the same time, with the leg on the carriage30, pulling the carriage30towards the hands while also engaging the muscles of the opposite leg while keeping the foot stationary upon the floor. When the upper leg of the leg on the carriage30is straight up and down, movement is stopped and the position is held. The carriage30may be allowed to slowly return and the exercise repeated on the same or opposite leg.

FIG. 13is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while positioning their left foot upon the first platform60of the exercise machine20, and their right foot positioned upon the carriage30. For illustrative purposes, the exerciser12is holding and balancing an additional weight13to increase the overall intensity of the exercise. This exercise is an adductor-pull, working the adductor magnus, adductor longus, adductor brevis, pectineus, and gracilis, together commonly referred to as the groin muscles, to increase strength and muscle tone. This exercise requires precise positioning on the exercise machine20in order to obtain the proper benefits of the exercise, but more importantly to prevent injury.

To perform this exercise, the left foot is placed on the first platform60, with the center of the foot being positioned at approximately the intersection of the first platform longitudinal marking66and the first platform cross marking67. The right foot is placed upon the carriage30along the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of a shorter stature, the right foot is placed on the second cross carriage marking42. For exercisers12of a medium stature, the right foot is placed on the third cross carriage marking43. For exercisers12of a taller stature, the right foot is placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44.FIG. 14illustrates exemplary foot placement on the carriage30.

The positioning of the foot upon the carriage30is a critical step in the set up and performance of the exercise if the exerciser12is to benefit from the intended workout, and further, to avoid injury during the exercise. Without the carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47to reference, finding the correct position to perform this exercise is a dangerous trial and error process, with a very high probability of establishing a wrong starting position. This could lead to a serious groin injury even before completing one cycle of the exercise. This injury would likely be compounded by a second injury caused by losing balance, and falling off of the exercise machine20. To those skilled in the art, the novel and valuable advantages of the present invention would become immediately obvious. With the feet placed properly, the right leg is used to draw the carriage30toward the first platform60. The carriage30is then allowed to slowly return to its starting position, and the exercise is repeated.

One skilled in the art will immediately understand that taller exercisers12have longer legs, and that the starting position for the right foot would be a greater distance from the left foot when compared to shorter exercisers12. Further, by instructing exercisers12to place their foot in a position referenced by the proper carriage markings40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47of the present invention, the chance for injury on the very first cycle of the exercise is removed or substantially reduced. These advantages would also become immediately obvious to one skilled in the art.

FIG. 15is an exemplary diagram illustrating a side view of an exercise machine20with an illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while laying prone upon the carriage30. In the figure, the exerciser's12hands are grasping pulley handles14which are connected to the first end22of the exercise machine20. The illustrative exercise being performed is an extended arm pull, equivalent to an exercise well known in gyms as an extended arm pull down performed on a weight machine. The muscles worked during this exercise are primarily restricted to the upper body, and more specifically to the latissimus dorsi, sometimes referred to as “lats”, and the trapezius, or “trapeze” muscle.

To perform this exercise, the exerciser12takes a position on the carriage30as instructed. For an exerciser12of shorter stature, the center of the shoulders is placed on the second cross carriage marking42. For an exerciser12of a medium stature, the center of the shoulders is placed on the third cross carriage marking43. For an exerciser13of a taller stature, the center of the shoulders is placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44. The arms will be outstretched to extend perpendicular to the longitudinal carriage marking40and along the relevant cross carriage marking42,43,44.FIG. 16illustrates one such positioning for this exercise.

Following the establishment of correct body positioning upon the carriage30, the pulley handles14are grasped with each hand and the feet and heads are raised slightly off of the carriage30and second platform70. The hands are moved in a sweeping motion down toward the feet. This “butterfly” motion will move the carriage30against resistance toward the second end23of the exercise machine20. At a point when the face is aligned and immediately above the first edge of the first platform60, pulling is stopped and the position is held. The hands may then be moved in a sweeping motion in an opposite direction to return the carriage30to its starting position. This position may again be held, and the exercise repeated.

As would be immediately obvious to one skilled in the art, positioning a tall exerciser12on the carriage30too far towards the second end23could result in facial injury when the exerciser pulls the carriage30towards the second end23, and hits their face on the stationary structure of the exercise machine20. Similarly, it would be obvious to one skilled in the art that when a shorter exerciser12is positioned too far back on the carriage30, more distant from the second end23, they run the risk of overstretching the latissimus dorsi muscles when their arms are hyper-extended over their head. This position can also cause shoulder injuries as the more extended, higher force starting position for the short exerciser12requires a pull-down movement using minor muscles, rather than the stronger latissimus dorsi.

Therefore, by combining the use of instructions with markings and/or reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49, the present invention significantly reduces the chance of injury, and delivers the added commercial advantage of shortening the time that a class instructor spends ensuring that every exercising student in the class is properly position prior to the start of the exercise.

FIG. 17is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while placing both feet together upon the carriage30so that they are aligned along an axis substantially perpendicular to the sliding, longitudinal axis of the carriage30with their hands grasping the first and second handle assemblies50,53. This exercise primarily targets the muscles comprising the abdominal wall. More specifically, the illustrative exercise works the internal and external abdominal obliques, transversus abdominis, and the rectus abdominis. The exercise is performed in two phases, the first of which exercises one set of transverse abdominals and obliques, for instance, the left abdominal muscles, and a second phase that exercises the abdominal muscles on the opposite side, for instance, the right side abdominals.

Because of the seemingly awkward positioning for this effective exercise, it is important to ensure proper positioning prior to starting this exercise to minimize the likelihood of injury. Further, since many students in an exercise class would rarely have performed this type of exercise before their first class, if ever, an exorbitant amount of time is spent by the instructor to direct a class on how to properly position themselves on the apparatus, and again spends time checking each class member to ensure proper positioning before the start of the exercise.

By positioning the exerciser12using the markings and/or reference characters40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,49, the individual exercisers12benefit from a proper workout, and the class as a whole benefits from not stopping a workout session for prolonged periods while instructions are delivered.

To perform the exercise, the first and second handle assemblies50,53are first grasped by the hands. The exerciser12then steps onto the carriage30, positioning the back of the heel of one foot in alignment with the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of a shorter stature, the central axis of the foot is aligned with the second cross carriage marking42while keeping the back of the heel on the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of a medium stature, the central axis of the foot is aligned with the third cross carriage marking43while keeping the back of the heel on the longitudinal carriage marking40. For exercisers12of a taller stature, the central axis of the foot is aligned with the fourth cross carriage marking44while keeping the back of the heel on the longitudinal carriage marking40. The toes of the other foot are placed on the same cross carriage marking42,43,44as the first foot so that the toes are touching the heel of the first positioned foot.FIG. 18illustrates exemplary positioning for this exercise.

The exercise cycle is begun by pulling the carriage30towards the first end22of the exercise machine20. Concentration is not on pulling with the hands and arms but rather on the use of the abdominal muscles to tighten the waist, thereby pulling the feet towards the hands. This exercise uses a tight twisting motion. If the body is too extended in the starting position, the likelihood of injuring the smaller abdominal muscles is increased.

At a point when the abdominal muscles have fully contracted, and the carriage30is closest to the first end22of the exercise machine20, movement is stopped and the position is held. The return path may then be slowly and deliberately begun by loosening the flex on the abdominal muscles until the carriage30has returned to its starting position. This position is held for a period of time, and the exercise may be repeated in opposite position.

One skilled in the art will immediately appreciate the advantages of the present invention when instructing an exerciser12to assume the awkward position for this exercise, and further will understand the importance of proper positioning to reduce the chance of injury, and increase the effectiveness of the workout.

FIG. 19is an exemplary diagram illustrating a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing a stretching exercise while placing one knee and lower leg upon the carriage30and the other leg upon the second platform70. The benefits of stretching muscles to increase circulation and mobility are well known in the industry. It is also well known that over-stretching can cause soft tissue injuries such as muscle or ligament tears, or may injure joints by extending them beyond their normal range of motion. Therefore, proper positioning is vitally important in order to realize the benefits of stretching, while reducing the likelihood of injury.

To perform this stretching exercise, the exerciser12first faces the second end23of the exercise machine20and holds the third and fourth handle assemblies56,57. Each knee is first positioned on either side of the longitudinal carriage marking40while keeping the knees together. For exercisers12of a shorter stature, both knees are aligned on top of the sixth cross carriage marking46. For exercisers12of a medium stature, both knees are aligned on top of the fifth cross carriage marking45. For exercisers12of a taller stature, both knees are aligned on top of the fourth cross carriage marking44.

One leg is bent forward to place the knee upon the second platform70and against one of the handle assemblies56,57. The foot is moved across the body to rest the side of the foot on the second platform70. The exerciser12then leans forward to place the elbows on the second platform cross marking77.FIG. 20is an exemplary illustration of this position.

The exercise cycle may be begun by pushing the carriage30away and towards the second end23of the exercise machine20while maintaining a forward-leaning position. The spreading movement of the legs is continued slowly until the inner thigh is felt to stretch. The movement is stopped before over-stretching to prevent injury. At the end of this movement, the position may be held then slowly released to allow the carriage30to return. The entire exercise may be repeated, with the legs switched, to allow for efficient stretching. One skilled in the art will immediately appreciate the benefits of stretching, and the advantages of the present invention to help exercisers12to quickly assume the correct positioning on the apparatus to maximize efficiency and prevent injury.

FIG. 21is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while placing a left foot upon the carriage30and a right foot upon the first platform60, with their hands grasping pulley handles14extending from the first end22of the exercise machine20.

This illustrative exercise is a modification to a well-known fitness exercise called the lunge. In the drawing, the modified lunge combines stretching and muscle workout. More specifically, as the carriage30is moved along the rails25,26towards the first end22, the exerciser12is stretching the muscles previously referred to as the groin muscles of the forward leg. In the movement during which the carriage30is drawn back towards the first end22of the exercise machine20, the arms pull against the spring27, thereby exercising the biceps.

This is just one of the great number of novel exercises that can be performed only on a Pilates exercise machine20. As a consequence, exercisers12being introduced to the Pilates exercise machine20would never have experienced a similar exercise prior to their Pilates exposure. For this, and other reasons, it is important to ensure proper positioning and execution in order to prevent injury. By placing the forward foot too far forward, the probability of groin injury rises considerably.

To perform this exercise, the pulley handles14are firmly grasped in the hands while the exerciser12steps onto the carriage30while straddling the longitudinal carriage marking40with both feet spread slightly and centered over the relevant cross carriage marking41,42,43,44,45,46,47. For exercisers12of a shorter stature, both feet are placed on the second cross carriage marking42. For exercisers12of a medium stature, both feet are placed on the third cross carriage marking43. For exercisers12of a taller stature, both feet are placed on the fourth cross carriage marking44.FIG. 22illustrates one such positioning for this exercise.

One foot is then moved directly rearward, with the ball of the rear foot placed on the first platform cross marking77of the first platform70. The exerciser12then pulls upward on the pulley handles14using the bicep muscles. When the carriage30moves close to the first platform70, the pull is stopped, held, and then slowly released so that the forward foot and carriage30move forward toward the second end23of the exercise machine20. This may be repeated, the feet switched, and the exercise repeated again.

The sequence just described illustrates the importance and novelty of the present invention when a Pilates exercise machine20is used to perform exercises for which there is no equivalent in the fitness world, to ensure proper body positioning and exercise execution for exercisers12who have no prior experience performing the exercise on a Pilates exercise machine20.

FIG. 23is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of an exercise machine20with a representative illustration of an exerciser12performing an exercise while placing both knees upon the carriage30. The right and left knees are substantially aligned with the longitudinal carriage marking40, with both hands grasping a pulley handle14connected to a first end22of the exercise machine20.

This exercise primarily targets the muscles comprising the abdominal wall. More specifically, the illustrative exercise works the internal and external abdominal obliques and the transversus abdominis. The exercise is performed in two phases; the first of which exercises one set of transverse abdominals and obliques, for instance, the left abdominal muscles, and a second phase that exercises the abdominal muscles on the opposite side, for instance, the right side abdominals.

To perform this exercise, the exerciser12first grasps the pulley handle14with both hands, overlapping the fingers. The exerciser12carefully kneels onto the carriage30, straddling the fourth cross carriage marking44, with both knees spread slightly. In this example, the first knee is centered over the sixth cross carriage marking46and the second knee is centered over the second cross carriage marking42.FIG. 24illustrates one such positioning for this exercise.

With both arms straightened and positioned directly in front of the face, the arms are rotated in a sweeping motion to pull the rope toward the second end23of the exercise machine20. A jerky motion should be avoided, allowing only a smooth twist using solely upper body movement. At the point where the exerciser12can no longer twist while pulling the rope, motion is stopped and the position held. After a period of time, the hold is released and the carriage30allowed to return to its starting position while the torso un-twists and the exerciser12reverts back to a starting position with both arms straight and centered in front of the face. This starting position may be held and then the exercise repeated.