Exercise and training apparatuses and methods of making and using the same

The present invention relates to apparatuses for increasing strength through exercise and training. Specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that increase the difficulty of well-known exercises and weight lifting techniques in order to increase the efficiency of work-outs. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that promote whole-body stabilization.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to apparatuses for increasing strength through exercise and training. Specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that increase the difficulty of well-known exercises and weight lifting techniques in order to increase the efficiency of work-outs. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that promote whole-body stabilization.

BACKGROUND

It is, of course, generally known to increase strength through strength training. Strength training has many forms such as weight training, isometric training, isokinetic training, and resistance training. It is also generally known that progression of a single strength training exercise is called a repetition, or a rep.

Generally, weight training is a method of strength training that uses the force of gravity through weight stacks, plates, dumbbells, bodyweight, or other heavy objects to oppose muscle contraction. The most basic form of weight training is isotonic: lifting a weight through an arc of movement in which the weight does not change. However, a weight typically becomes less difficult to lift as a muscle progresses through the arc of movement because of the change in muscle length. At the beginning of the arc of movement the muscle is weak and begins to contract and increase muscle tension to meet the force of the weight. Once the force of the weight is matched, the muscle tension no longer increases and the weight becomes less difficult to lift throughout the rest of the contraction. This partition of muscle contraction has the least impact on strength training. As the muscle lengthens, however, it becomes weaker again and the weight becomes more difficult to lift. Therefore, the greatest impact on strength training is generally through the first half of muscle contraction.

Universally, isometric training is a method of strength training in which effort is performed against a force in a static position. In isometric training, the muscle output is completely matched by the opposing force so that there is no net movement. Isometric training may be done with resistive forces or gravitation forces in static positions. Isometric training has the ability to specifically target certain muscles based on these certain static positions.

Generally, isokinetic training is a method of strength training that involves variable forces throughout a constant velocity. In order to apply various forces throughout an arc of movement, expensive computing equipment is typically used. As a muscle contracts through an arc of movement, a computer increases the resistance where the muscle is stronger, and decreases the resistance where the muscle is weaker. Pure isokinetic training must be performed under a constant velocity and is generally the fastest and most efficient way to increase strength. However, the use of computers and other like technology is generally impractical and expensive.

In general, resistance training is a method of strength training in which effort is performed against a resisting force. Resistive forces include but are not limited to stretching, compressing, bending, or pushing. Resistance training is different from isotonic weight training in that the resistance continually increases throughout the arc of motion.

It is, of course, generally known to use resistive forces in strength training. Elastic objects can be used to apply these forces. At equilibrium, the forces on an elastic object are balanced. Equilibrium is generally defined, in relation to elastic objects, when an end is given a displacement value of zero (x=0). Applying a positive force (F) at equilibrium stretches an elastic object in the positive direction (x>0). This creates a force in the negative direction (−F) based upon Hooke's law, F=−k·x, that attempts to return the elastic object to equilibrium, with k being the elastic object's spring constant. When the positive force (F) is lessened or removed, the negative force (−F) is greater than the positive force (F) and the elastic object returns to equilibrium. Generally, the negative force (−F) is working against the positive force (F) when moving in the positive direction, while the positive force (F) is working against the negative force (−F) when returning to equilibrium. Applying a negative force (−F) at equilibrium compresses an elastic object in the negative direction (x<0). This creates a force in the positive direction (F) based upon Hooke's law, F=−k·x, that attempts to return the elastic object to equilibrium. When the negative force (−F) is lessened or removed, the positive force (F) is greater than the negative force (−F) and the elastic object returns to equilibrium. Generally, the positive force (F) is working against the negative force (−F) when moving in the negative direction, while the negative force (−F) is working against the positive force (F) when returning to equilibrium.

Commonly, elastic bands are used in strength training and exercise. Elastic bands, however, only have applications of Hooke's law in the positive direction (x>0) and in returning to equilibrium from the positive direction (x>0). In order to achieve compression in strength training applications, springs may be used. Springs can store mechanical energy when compressed or stretched, allowing for both applications in strength training and exercise.

In general, the force a spring exerts depends on both its displacement x and its spring constant k. A spring's spring constant k is inherently based on its composition. Different springs may be of the same shape and size, but have different compositions, changing the resistive forces of the spring. Multiple springs of the same size but of different compositions can be analogous to similarly sized weights with different masses.

Generally, by combining resistance training with isotonic weight training, semi-isokinetic training can be accomplished. While pure isokinetic motion cannot occur because the velocity of the arc of movement is not readily held constant, the resistance training may correct some isotonic weight training problems.

A form of weight training is the use of barbells, such as Olympic barbells, having free weights attached thereto. In general, Olympic barbells are uni-functional in that typically, they can only be used to lift a constant weight through a motion. In order for them to obtain multi-functionality, interchangeable weights of different sizes and masses may be added to each end, but typically this is difficult to do during a repetition. When combining resistance training and isotonic weight training, interchangeable parts are typically required in order to create multi-functionality.

Frequently, amateur free weight lifters do not perform strength training properly. Strength training requires proper form and weight in order to avoid injury and to be effective. Placing a weight bar within a guiding mechanism allows amateur weight lifters to proceed through the proper form safely.

Commonly, when a weight lifter performs a rep, he or she progresses through an arc of movement. Guiding mechanisms may allow for this arc of movement in order for proper reps to occur. The arc of movement may differ from person to person, however, and generally prevents a guiding mechanism from being completely universal. A guiding mechanism to be universally useful, typically must allow a person of any size or shape to customize his or her exercise. Commonly, customizable devices may also have multiple applications in a plurality of exercises.

Generally, a guiding mechanism is stationary allowing for only one particular application of strength training to be performed. Customizing the height, angle, and rotation may allow for multiple applications to be attained by a single guiding mechanism.

In general, hand grips are rough on a lifter's hands because Olympic barbells have grip etchings embedded within. As a lifter progresses through a rep, the lifter's hands rotate while the Olympic barbell remains stationary causing wear to the lifter's palmar skin.

Commonly, Olympic barbells are solid, single objects designed to withhold great amounts of weight secured at each end. These Olympic barbells generally rest on bar holders or are permanently threaded through a guiding mechanism such as in a Smith machine. The stet of the Olympic barbell in a machine restricts use of the Olympic barbell to only applications within said machine. This requires an additional Olympic barbell to be obtained for use in applications outside of said machine.

Regularly, cable and pulley systems are used in strength training to replace barbells are circular weights. Generally, a cable may be attached to a weight and may be pulled through a pulley system. Cable systems maximize utility while minimizing space while allowing for multiple applications with a single system. However, cable and pulley systems are generally isotonic weight training exercises and as a muscle contracts, the weights are typically easier to lift.

Frequently, strength training requires an addition individual in charge of spotting a weight lifter. Weight lifters generally lift heavy weights for long periods of time directly over or near their own bodies. Over time, an individual may become exhausted or fatigued and may no longer be able to lift a weight away from them. These heavy weights, if dropped, can cause serious injury to a weight lifter. A spotter, generally, mildly supports the heavy weight and may actively take complete control of it in case the weight lifter cannot lift the weight any longer.

Occasionally, a weight lifter will lift heavy weights without a spotter. This can be extremely dangerous to the weight lifter. When lifting free weights without a spotter, there is no prevention of injury to the weight lifter if a problem should occur. Some guidance machines, such as the Smith machine, however, can be used without a spotter because of a built-in spotting mechanism. Built-in spotting mechanisms provide a safety measure when an additional individual is unavailable.

Generally, exercises are performed that focus on a single muscle group. Commonly, stabilizing muscles are ignored in order to increase focus on that single muscle group, thus increasing the size and strength of that single muscle group. Exercising stabilizing muscles along with specific muscle groups is generally unfamiliar and difficult to beginners or novice weight lifters.

A need, therefore, exists for an apparatus that can combine resistance training and isotonic weight training in order to achieve benefits most closely similar to isokinetic training.

Moreover, a need exists for an apparatus that uses spring compression resistance in combination with isotonic weight training.

Further, a need exists for an apparatus with interchangeable weights and interchangeable springs for multiple resistances.

Additionally, a need exists for an apparatus with a guiding mechanism that supports weight lifters in performing lifts safely and correctly.

Moreover, a need exists for a guiding mechanism that allows a person of any size or shape to customize his or her exercise to fit his or her needs.

Furthermore, a need exists for an adjustable guiding mechanism in height and angle that may also rotate in order for multiple applications to be accomplished.

Also, a need exists for a customizable apparatus that may be locked into place for specific applications.

Moreover, a need exists for an apparatus with hand grips that rotate with a lifter's hands reducing the wear to the palmar skin.

Additionally, a need exists for a bar apparatus that can be separated thereby allowing the apparatus to be inserted into and removed from otherwise permanent fixtures.

Similarly, a need exists for a bar apparatus that can be separated thereby allowing customizable components to be added thereon.

Further, a need exists for an apparatus that contains a cable and pulley system for additional beneficial strength training exercises.

Moreover, a need exists for an apparatus with built-in spotting mechanisms that can prevent injury to the weight lifter.

Finally, a need exist for an apparatus that easily supports stabilizing muscles along with specific muscle groups for beginners or novice weight lifters.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatuses for increasing strength through exercise and training. Specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that increase the difficulty of well-known exercises and weight lifting techniques in order to increase the efficiency of work-outs. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that promote whole-body stabilization.

To this end, in an embodiment of the present invention, weight training equipment is provided. The equipment comprises at least one compression spring that is engaged during a repetition, adding compression resistance to isotonic weight training and at least one compression mechanism to contact and engage a compression spring.

It is, therefore, an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus that can combine resistance training and isotonic weight training in order to achieve benefits most closely similar to isokinetic training.

Moreover, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus that uses spring compression resistance in combination with isotonic weight training.

Further, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus with interchangeable weights and interchangeable springs for multiple resistances.

Additionally, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus with a guiding mechanism that supports weight lifters in performing lifts safely and correctly.

Moreover, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a guiding mechanism that allows a person of any size or shape to customize his or her exercise to fit his or her needs.

Furthermore, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an adjustable guiding mechanism in height and angle that may also rotate in order for multiple applications to be accomplished.

Also, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a customizable apparatus that may be locked into place for specific applications.

Moreover, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus with hand grips that rotate with a lifter's hands reducing the wear to the palmar skin.

Additionally, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a bar apparatus that can be separated thereby allowing the apparatus to be inserted into and removed from otherwise permanent fixtures.

Similarly, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a bar apparatus that can be separated thereby allowing customizable components to be added thereon.

Further, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus that contains a cable and pulley system for additional beneficial strength training exercises.

Moreover, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus with built-in spotting mechanisms that can prevent injury to the weight lifter.

Finally, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus that easily supports stabilizing muscles along with specific muscle groups for beginners or novice weight lifters.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to apparatuses for increasing strength through exercise and training. Specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that increase the difficulty of well-known exercises and weight lifting techniques in order to increase the efficiency of work-outs. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that promote whole-body stabilization.

Although the present invention is described in relation increasing the difficulty of weight training, it should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the components of the present invention, as described in the embodiments presented herein, may be useful for other training exercises.

Now referring to the figures, wherein like numerals refer to like parts, an embodiment is provided inFIG. 1. An apparatus10may be comprised of a core bar12and a mounting device14. The mounting device14may be disposed at one end of core bar12secured around core bar12. For example, mounting device14may include a sleeve portion15that may be disposed around core bar12allowing the sleeve portion15to slide along core bar12. The mounting device14may be comprised of a hand grip16and a weight plate mount18and may advance parallel along core bar12. The hand grip16may rotate freely, as indicated inFIG. 1, to prevent wear to weight lifters palmar skin during progression of mounting device14along core bar12. Weight plates20may be added to weight plate mount18for additional isotonic weight resistance.

As shown inFIG. 2, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus26may include a compression spring22. The compression spring22may be disposed at and around one end of a core bar24opposite of a mounting device28. The mounting device28may advance parallel along core bar24, engaging the compression spring22until compression spring22is completely compressed, thereby increasing resistance. The mounting device28may regress parallel along core bar24disengaging the compression spring22and return to disposed position at end of core bar24. Thus, a repetition by a user, moving mounting device28along core bar24and engaging compression spring22may preferably cause an increase in resistance through the movement of mounting device28during contraction of the muscles and a decrease in resistance through the movement of the mounting device during the release portion of the repetition. Apparatus26may be lifted isotonically, and the compression spring22may add resistance to the repetition during the second half of muscle contraction, making the second half of muscle contraction as effective as the first half of muscle contraction. Therefore, apparatus26allows for an entire repetition of muscle contraction to be the greatest impact on strength training rather than the first half of muscle contraction.

As shown inFIG. 3, an alternate embodiment is shown and described as it may progress from a point A, through a point B, to a point C. An apparatus30may be comprised of a core bar32disposed internally in an enclosure38. A mounting device34may be disposed internally in enclosure38secured around and at one end of core bar32and slidable within the enclosure38. The mounting device34may be comprised of a hand grip36and a weight plate mount (not shown) and may advance or regress parallel along core bar32. The hand grip36and weight plate mount (not shown) may extend outwards of enclosure38so as to be accessible to the weight lifter. Weight plates40may be added to weight plate mount (not shown) for additional isotonic weight resistance. A compression spring42may be disposed at and around one end of enclosure38opposite of hand grip36. The mounting device34may advance down core bar32engaging compression spring42until compression spring42is completely compressed, thereby increasing resistance during contraction of the muscle through the repetition. The mounting device34may regress parallel along core bar32disengaging the compression spring42and returning to its starting position at end of core bar32. The apparatus30may rotate along a pivot44whilst progressing from point A to point C. The apparatus30at point A may comprise of compression spring42at equilibrium. As apparatus30progresses to a mid-point B mounting device34may advance and partially compress compression spring42, adding additional resistance to the isotonic weight training obtained using weight plates40. The apparatus30at point C may comprise of compression spring42fully compressed. The hand grip36may rotate freely to prevent wear to palmar skin of weight lifter during progression of mounting device34during a rep.

As shown inFIG. 4, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus50may be comprised of a core bar52disposed internally in an enclosure58. A mounting device54may be disposed internally in enclosure38and externally around core bar52. The mounting device54may advance and regress parallel along core bar52. The mounting device54may be comprised of a hand grip56, a weight plate mount60, a spring end plate64, and a halting plate66. The hand grip56and weight plate mount60may extend outwards of enclosure58so as to be accessible to the weight lifter. The hand grip56may rotate freely in order to prevent wear to palmar skin of weight lifter during a rep. A compression spring62may be disposed internally in enclosure58and around core bar52at one end opposite mounting device54. Mounting device54may advance internally in enclosure58engaging compression spring62with spring end plate64until compression spring62is fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance. An exterior cap68may be secured to enclosure58and used to brace compression spring62at one end opposite spring plate64. Exterior cap68may be removable in order to interchange compression spring62with an alternate compression spring (not shown) having a different resistance. Mounting device54may regress internally in enclosure58disengaging compression spring62and concluding when halting plate66comes into contact with stopper70. Weight plates (not shown) may be added to weight plate mount60for addition isotonic weight resistance.

As shown inFIG. 5, an alternate mounting device80is shown and described. Mounting device80may be comprised of a cylindrical shell82, guiding fins84, a cylindrical hole86, and a spring plate88. The cylindrical shell82may be made from solid metal or an otherwise strong and sturdy material known to one skilled in the art that will allow a cylindrical hole86to be drilled. Guiding fins84may be used to correctly line-up mounting device80and cylindrical hole86for accepting a core bar (not shown). The spring plate88may be used to engage a compression spring (not shown) when mounting device80is advanced toward the compression spring (not shown).

As shown inFIG. 6, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus100may be comprised of a hollow enclosure102, a mounting device80, a compression spring104, an exterior cap106, a core bar sleeve108, and an attaching surface110. Exterior cap106may be secured to one end of hollow enclosure102. Attaching surface110may be secured to an opposite end of hollow enclosure102and may comprise of a pull-release handle112, a handgrip114, and locking holes116. The pull-release handle112may be used to securely lock apparatus100to a vertical column on a weight bench (not shown) through attaching surface110. The pull-release handle112may be made out of highly resilient metal or another strong material known to one in the art that can withstand the heavy loads involved in strength training. The handgrip114may be used to rotate apparatus100into different angled positions. The locking holes116may be used to securely lock apparatus100into a specific angled position using locking pins (not shown).

The mounting device80may be disposed internally in hollow enclosure102lined-up by guiding fins84. A core bar118may pass through hollow enclosure102by means of core bar sleeve108. The core bar118may pass through mounting device80by means of cylindrical hole86. The mounting device80may advance or regress inside of hollow enclosure102when external force is applied to core bar118, such as when core bar118is passed through mounting device80. The core bar118may advance or regress externally around core bar sleeve108. Core bar118and mounting device80may engage compression spring104with spring plate88when core bar118advances toward exterior cap106until compression spring104is completely compressed, thereby increasing resistance. Core bar118and mounting device80may disengage compression spring104when core bar118regresses away from exterior cap106, terminating at end of core bar sleeve108opposite exterior cap106. Exterior cap106may be removable in order to interchange compression spring104with an alternate compression spring (not shown) having a different resistance.

As shown inFIG. 7, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus130may comprise a hollow enclosure132, a compression mechanism134, a mounting device136, a compression spring138, a rotating pulley system140, a cable handle142, a cable144, an interior pulley146, an attaching surface148, and locking pins150. Attaching surface148may be disposed at one end of hollow enclosure132and rotating pulley system140may be disposed externally at an opposite end of hollow enclosure132. Rotating pulley system140may allow cable144to pass through controllably while allowing 360 degrees of rotation of cable144and rotating pulley system140. Cable144may be attached to a weight stack (not shown) at one end. Cable144may be disposed internally through apparatus130at the opposite end, entering vertically into attaching surface148, arcing around interior pulley146, and extending outwards through hollow enclosure132towards rotating pulley system140. The compression mechanism134may be disposed internally in one end of hollow enclosure132and may be secured directly to cable144so the two may move conjunctively. Cable144may pass through mounting device136and compression spring138so as to move independently of mounting device136and compression spring138. Cable144may end in cable handle142disposed externally and beyond rotating pulley system140and hollow enclosure132. Cable handle142may be used to pull cable144outwards through rotating pulley system140, rotate interior pulley146, lift weight stack (not shown) isotonically, advance compression mechanism134towards mounting device136, contact mounting device136with compression mechanism134, advance mounting device136towards compression spring138, and engage compression spring138with mounting device136until compression spring138is fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance. Interior pulley146may comprise an opening152so as to allow a pull-release handle (not shown) to be inserted through and into a height slot154to secure apparatus130to a vertical column156at a specified height. Apparatus130may rotate along opening152using pull-release handle (not-shown) as a pivot. Locking pins150may be used to secure apparatus130at a specific angled position through a locking hole158in vertical column156. Mounting device136and hollow enclosure132may allow a core bar (not shown) to pass through cylindrical hole160. Mounting device136may advance independently of cable144and contact compression spring138when external force is applied to the core bar (not shown). Isotonic weight training may be completed by use of the core bar (not shown) independently of cable144and weight stack (not shown). Mounting device136may advance towards rotating pulley system140, engaging compression spring138until compression spring138is fully compressed thereby increasing resistance. Mounting device136may regress away from rotating pulley system140, disengaging compression spring138and returning to the starting position.

As shown inFIG. 8, an embodiment is shown and described. An arm apparatus170may comprise a hollow enclosure172, a mounting device174, a compression spring176, a hollow core bar178, a cable180, an interior pulley182, and an attaching surface184. The mounting device174may be disposed internally within hollow enclosure172at one end and around hollow core bar178. The mounting device174may comprise an external mount186extending outwardly from hollow enclosure172. The external mount186may comprise a cylindrical hole188in which a core bar (not shown) may be placed therethrough. The compression spring176may be disposed internally within hollow enclosure172at the opposite end of the mounting device174and around hollow core bar178. The cable180may be disposed internally within hollow core bar178and extend the length of arm apparatus170. The attaching surface184may be secured to the hollow enclosure172at one end of arm apparatus170. The interior pulley182may be disposed internally within attaching surface184and may make contact with cable180in order to change direction of cable180. The mounting device174may advance parallel along hollow core bar178toward compression spring176when force is applied to a core bar (not shown) threaded through cylindrical hole188. The mounting device174may engage compression spring176until fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance. The mounting device174may disengage compression spring176and return to the starting position.

As shown inFIG. 9, a partially hollow view of the previous embodiment is shown and described. The arm apparatus170may additionally comprise an interior compression spring190, a compression mechanism192, and a cable handle194. The interior compression spring190may be disposed internally within hollow core bar178. The compression mechanism192may be disposed internally within and at one end of hollow core bar178. Cable180may be disposed internally within hollow core bar178and pass through interior compression spring190so that the two move independently. Cable180may be secured to compression mechanism192so that the two move dependently. Cable handle194may be secured to cable180and disposed at one end opposite the compression mechanism192. Cable handle194may be used to pull cable180outwards, rotate interior pulley182, lift weight stack (not shown) isotonically, advance compression mechanism192towards interior compression spring190, and engage interior compression spring190with compression mechanism192until interior compression spring190is fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance throughout the repetition, and throughout the contraction of the specific muscle or muscle group of the user. Compression mechanism192and interior compression spring190may be engaged independently of mounting device174.

As shown inFIG. 10, an embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus210may comprise a hollow enclosure212, a compression mechanism214, a mounting device216, a compression spring218, a rotating pulley system220, a cable handle222, a cable224, and an attaching surface226. Attaching surface226may be secured at one end of hollow enclosure212and rotating pulley system220may be disposed externally at the opposite end of hollow enclosure212. Rotating pulley system220may allow cable224to pass through controllably while allowing 360 degrees of rotation of cable224and rotating pulley system220. Cable224may be attached to a weight stack (not shown) at one end. Cable224may be disposed internally through the length of apparatus210, entering vertically into attaching surface226and extending outwards through hollow enclosure212towards rotating pulley system220. The compression mechanism214may be disposed internally in one end of hollow enclosure212and may be secured directly to cable224so the two may move conjunctively. Cable224may pass through mounting device216and compression spring218so as to move independently of mounting device216and compression spring218. Cable224may terminate in cable handle222disposed externally and beyond rotating pulley system220and hollow enclosure212. Cable handle222may be used to pull cable224outwards through rotating pulley system220, rotate interior pulley (not shown), lift weight stack (not shown) isotonically, advance compression mechanism214towards mounting device216, contact mounting device216with compression mechanism214, advance mounting device216towards compression spring218, and engage compression spring218with mounting device216until compression spring218is fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance. Attaching surface226may comprise a pull-release handle228to be inserted through and into a height slot (not shown) to secure apparatus210to a vertical column (not shown) at a specified height. Apparatus210may rotate using pull-release handle228as a pivot. Attaching surface226may comprise locking holes230that may be used to secure apparatus210at a specific angled position in vertical column (not shown) by use of locking pins (not shown). Attaching surface226may further comprise a hand grip232. Hand grip232may be used to maneuver apparatus210to a specific height or angled position. Mounting device216and hollow enclosure212may allow a weight bar (not shown) to pass through cylindrical hole234. Mounting device216may advance independently of cable224and contact compression spring218when external force is applied to the weight bar (not shown). Isotonic weight training may be completed by use of the weight bar (not shown) independently of cable224and weight stack (not shown). Mounting device216may advance towards rotating pulley system220, engaging compression spring218until compression spring218is fully compressed, thereby increasing resistance throughout the repetition during contraction of the muscle of muscles of the user. Compression spring218may be compressed between mounting device216and an exterior cap236. Exterior cap236provides a barrier for compression spring218to be compressed against. Mounting device216may regress away from exterior cap236, disengaging compression spring218and returning to the starting position.

As seen inFIG. 11, in an alternate embodiment of the present invention, a rotating hand grip for a weight bar is shown and described. An apparatus250may comprise a core bar252that may be used in weight training. Hand grip256may be made of metal or otherwise strong material known to one having ordinary skill in the art with etchings to allow a weight trainer to more easily grasp hand grip256. A plurality of ball bearings254may be disposed within hand grip256to allow hand grip256to rotate freely along a path D. Path D may be a 360 degree rotation. As a weight trainer lifts apparatus250, core bar252may remain stationary, while hand grip256may rotate with weight trainer's arc of motion reducing wear to weight trainer's palmar skin.

As seen inFIG. 12, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar is shown and described. An apparatus270may comprise a core bar272, a plurality of weight mounts274, a threaded donor276, and a threaded acceptor278. One of both of the weight mounts274may be removed from core bar272by loosening threaded donor276from threaded acceptor278similar to loosening a screw from a nut in a counterclockwise motion. This may allow for apparatus270to be inserted into fixtures or machines that a typical weight bar could not. After apparatus270is inserted into a fixture or machine, weight mount274may be rejoined to core bar272by tightening weight mount274with threaded acceptor278to core bar272with threaded donor276in a clockwise motion.

As shown inFIG. 13, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar is shown and described. An apparatus290may comprise a core bar292, a left-hand grip294A, a right-hand grip294B, a left-hand weight mount296A, a right-hand weight mount296B, a left-hand connector298A, and a right-hand connector298B. Left-hand grip294A and left-hand weight mount296A may be secured together so as to form one sturdy piece. Right-hand grip294B and right-hand weight mount296B may be secured together so as to form one sturdy piece. The core bar292may be secured to left-hand grip294A with left-hand connector298A at one end. The core bar292may be secured to right-hand grip294B with right-hand connector298B at one end. The core bar292may be removable to use left-hand grip294A and right-hand grip294B independently.

As shown inFIG. 14, apparatus290is shown with core bar292removed. The core bar292may comprise a left-hand threaded donor300A that may be inserted into left-hand connector298A and a right-hand threaded donor300B that may be inserted into right-hand connector298B. Core bar292may be inserted into left-hand grip294A via left-hand connector298A and rotated clockwise to secure. Core bar292may be inserted into right-hand grip294B via right-hand connector298B and rotated clockwise to secure.

As shown inFIG. 15, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus302may comprise an alternate core bar section304. Alternative core bar section304may be inserted into right-hand grip294B via right-hand connector298B and rotated clockwise to secure. Alternative core bar section304may be inserted into left-hand grip294A via left-hand connector298A and rotated clockwise to secure. Alternative core bar section304may provide addition workouts without additional weight bars.

As shown inFIG. 16, a supplementary embodiment of a spotter chock is shown and described. An apparatus310may comprise a chock312, an insert peg314, a counter peg316, and a handle318. The chock312may be used to prevent motion of exterior force while the counter peg316may be used to prevent motion of apparatus310. The counter peg316may also be used to absorb and dissipate energy from force prevented by chock312. Handle318may be used to remove and insert apparatus310into a vertical column (not shown) via the insert peg314.

As shown inFIG. 17, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. Apparatus310may be used together with arm apparatus170in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. As arm apparatus170rotates along path E, the chock312may halt rotation when apparatus310is inserted into vertical column320. Insert peg314may be placed inside of a height slot322in order to secure apparatus310to vertical column320. When arm apparatus170makes contact with chock312, a force F may be exerted down and towards vertical column320. This force F may travel through apparatus310and create a counter-force G that may be exerted up and towards the vertical column320by counter peg316. Force F and force G resist each other and create a lesser, more manageable force.

As shown inFIG. 18, an alternate embodiment is shown and described. An apparatus330may comprise a hollow enclosure332, a mounting device334, a compression spring336, a weight bar sleeve338, and an attaching surface340. Attaching surface340may be secured to an opposite end of hollow enclosure332and may comprise a pull-release handle342, a handgrip344, and locking holes346. The pull-release handle342may be used to securely lock apparatus330to a vertical column on a weight bench (not shown) or other weight lifting machine through attaching surface340. The pull-release handle342may be made out of highly resilient metal or another strong material known to one in the art that can withstand the heavy loads involved in strength training. The handgrip344may be used to rotate apparatus330into different angled positions. The locking holes346may be used to securely lock apparatus330into a specific angled position using locking pins (not shown). The mounting device334may be disposed internally in hollow enclosure332. The mounting device334may advance or regress inside of hollow enclosure332when external force is applied to weight bar348when weight bar348is passed through mounting device334. The weight bar348may advance or regress externally through weight bar sleeve338. Hollow enclosure332may comprise a plurality of catch pegs350along the length of hollow enclosure332. Weight bar348may comprise a catch hook352able to latch to catch pegs350as shown by point H. A weight bar348in position H will prevent compression spring336from regressing the mounting device334and weight bar348unintentionally. Weight bar348may rotate, releasing catch hook352from catch peg350and advance toward point I independently.

As shown inFIG. 19, an embodiment is shown and described. A weight lifting apparatus370may comprise a plurality of arm apparatuses400, a weight bar372, a plurality of vertical columns374, a plurality of cables376, and a plurality of pulley systems378. The vertical columns374may be hollow such that cables376may move internally and independently of vertical columns374. The vertical columns374may comprise height slots380and locking holes382. Height slots380may be used to lock in arm apparatus400to vertical columns374via pull-release handles402. Locking holes382may be used to lock arm apparatus400at a specific angle to vertical columns374via a locking pin404. Pulley systems378may be disposed at the top of vertical columns374to rotate cables376one hundred eighty degrees. Cable376may be secured to a weight stack384at one end, span the length of a vertical column374, contact a pulley system378, span the length between the pulley system378and arm apparatus400, enter arm apparatus400and span the length of arm apparatus400, pass through an arm pulley system406, and be secured to a cable handle408at the other end thereof. A cable376may be pulled via cable handle408, lifting isotonically the connecting weight stack384. A compression spring410may be engaged independently of a mounting device412by cable376. Arm pulley system406and cable376may rotate 360 degrees during any exercise. Weight bar372may be separable as to allow weight bar372to be inserted and removed from arm apparatuses400. Weight bar372may be used to lift weight plates386isotonically. Weight bar372may be threaded through mounting device412and engage compression spring410, thereby increasing resistance through the repetition as the muscle or muscles of the user contracts. Vertical columns374may comprise weight bar rests388to hold weight bar372when not in use. Weight bar372and arm apparatuses400may comprise alternate embodiments as discussed above, and are not limited to function described by this figure.

As shown inFIG. 20, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus510that may comprise a core bar512, a left-hand grip514A, a right-hand grip514B, a center brace516, a left-hand compression spring518A, a right-hand compression spring518B, a left-hand weight mount520A, and a right-hand weight mount520B. Center brace516may be disposed about the middle of core bar512. Left-hand weight mount520A may be secured to one end of core bar512and right-hand weight mount520B may be secured to an opposite end of core bar512. Left-hand weight mount520A and right-hand weight mount520B may be separable from core bar512to allow insertion of alternate hand grips (not shown) and alternate springs (not shown) with varying resistance and to allow alternate arrangements as seen in the following figures. Left-hand grip514A may be disposed at one end of core bar512, adjacent left-hand weight mount520A. Right-hand grip514B may be disposed at an opposite end of core bar512, adjacent right-hand weight mount520B. Left-hand grip514A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path J, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Right-hand grip514B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path J′, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Left-hand grip514A and right-hand grip514B may comprise a plurality of spring plates522that may engage left-hand compression spring518A and right-hand compression spring518B.

As shown inFIG. 21, apparatus510is shown partially adducted. Left-hand grip514A may advance down core bar512along path K engaging left-hand compression springs518A. Right-hand grip514B may advance down core bar512along path K′ and engage right-hand compression spring518B. As left-hand grip514A and right-hand grip514B advance closer to center brace516, the resistance becomes stronger and the isometric force required becomes larger as the user's muscle or muscles contract.

As shown inFIG. 22, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus610that may comprise a core bar612, a left-hand grip614A, a right-hand grip614B, a center brace616, a left-hand compression spring618A, a right-hand compression spring618B, a left-hand weight mount620A, and a right-hand weight mount620B. Left-hand weight mount620A may be secured to one end of core bar612and right-hand weight mount620B may be secured to opposite end of core bar612. Left-hand weight mount620A and right-hand weight mount620B may be separable from core bar612to allow insertion of alternate hand grips (not shown) and alternate springs (not shown) with other resistances, and to allow alternate arrangements as seen in the following figures. Center brace616may be disposed about the middle of core bar612. Left-hand grip614A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path L, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Right-hand grip614B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path L′, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Left-hand grip614A may advance along core bar612away from center brace616and engage left-hand compression spring618A. Right-hand grip614B may advance along core bar612away from center brace616and engage right-hand compression spring618B.

As shown inFIG. 23, apparatus610is shown partially abducted. Left-hand grip614A may advance about core bar612along path M, engaging left-hand compression spring618A. As left-hand grip614A advances closer to left-hand weight mount620A, the resistance becomes stronger and the isometric force required becomes larger. Right-hand grip614B may advance about core bar612along path M′, engaging right-hand compression spring618B. As right-hand grip614B advances closer to right-hand weight mount620B, the resistance becomes stronger and the isometric force required becomes larger.

As shown inFIG. 24, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus710that may comprise a core bar712, a left-hand grip714A, a right-hand grip714B, a center brace716, a left-hand weight mount720A, a right-hand weight mount720B, a left-hand adduction spring722A, a right-hand adduction spring722B, a left-hand abduction spring724A, and a right-hand abduction spring724B. Center brace716may be disposed about the middle of core bar712. Left-hand weight mount720A may be secured to one end of core bar712and right-hand weight mount720B may be secured to opposite end of core bar712. Left-hand weight mount720A and right-hand weight mount720B may be separable from core bar712to allow insertion of alternate hand grips (not shown) and alternate springs (not shown) with other resistances, and to allow alternate arrangements as seen in previous figures. Left-hand grip714A may be disposed midway between left-hand weight mount720A and center brace716. Right-hand grip714B may be disposed midway between right-hand weight mount720B and center brace716. Left-hand grip714A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path N. Right-hand grip714B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path N′. Left-hand grip714A may advance along core bar712towards center brace716and engage left-hand adduction spring722A. Right-hand grip714B may advance along core bar712towards center brace716and engage right-hand adduction spring722B. Left-hand grip714A may advance along core bar712towards left-hand weight mount720A and engage left-hand abduction spring724A. Right-hand grip714B may advance along core bar712towards right-hand weight mount720B and engage right-hand abduction spring724B.

As shown inFIG. 25, an alternate hand grip is shown and described. An apparatus730may comprise a weight bar cover732, a plurality of spring plates734, a base plate736, and a handle plate738. The weight bar cover732may comprise a cylindrical hole740to allow weight bar cover732to be slid onto a weight bar (not shown). The spring plates734may be used to engage compression springs (not shown). The base plate736may comprise a plurality of ball bearings742and may be secured to weight bar cover732on one side. Handle plate738may be disposed on top of base plate736so that handle plate738may rotate 360 degrees. Handle plate738may comprise a hand grip744for maneuvering handle plate738.

As shown inFIG. 26, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus810that may comprise a core bar812, a left alternate hand grip730A, a right alternate hand grip730B, a center brace816, a left-hand weight mount820A, a right-hand weight mount820B, a left-hand adduction spring822A, a right-hand adduction spring822B, a left-hand abduction spring824A, and a right-hand abduction spring824B. Left-hand weight mount820A may be secured to one end of core bar812and right-hand weight mount820B may be secured to an opposite end of core bar812. Left-hand weight mount820A and right-hand weight mount820B may be separable from core bar812to allow removal and insertion of hand grips (not shown) and alternate springs (not shown) with other resistances, and to allow alternate arrangements as seen in previous figures. Left alternate hand grip730A may be disposed midway between left-hand weight mount820A and center brace816. Right alternate hand grip730B may be disposed midway between right-hand weight mount820B and center brace816. Left alternate hand grip730A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path O, rotating about the lateral or pitch axis. Right alternate hand grip730B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path O′, rotating about the lateral or pitch axis. Left alternate hand grip730A may advance along core bar812towards center brace816and engage left-hand adduction spring822A. Left alternate hand grip730A may advance along core bar812towards left-hand weight mount820A and engage left-hand abduction spring824A. Right alternate hand grip730B may advance along core bar812towards center brace816and engage right-hand adduction spring822B. Right alternate hand grip730B may advance along core bar812towards right-hand weight mount820B and engage right-hand abduction spring824B.

As shown inFIG. 27, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus830that may comprise a left-hand end cap832A, a right-hand end cap832B, a left-hand stand834A, a right-hand stand834B, a left-hand grip836A, a right-hand grip836B, a separable core bar838, a left-hand compression spring840A, a right-hand compression spring840B, and a center brace842. Center brace842may be disposed about the middle of separable core bar838. Left-hand stand834A may be disposed about separable core bar838near one end and may be used to support apparatus830above and level to the ground. Right-hand stand834B may be disposed about separable core bar838near an opposite end and may be used to support apparatus830above and level to the ground. Left-hand end cap832A may be secured to separable core bar838at one end and right-hand end cap832B may be secured to separable core bar838at opposite end. Left-hand end cap832A may be removable to allow left-hand stand834A, left-hand grip836A, and left-hand compression spring840A to be removed or rearranged on separable core bar838. Right-hand end cap832B may be removable to allow right-hand stand834B, right-hand grip836B, and right-hand compression spring840B to be removed or rearranged on separable core bar838. Apparatus830may be used for adduction or abduction purposes, depending on arrangement of left-hand grip836A, left-hand compression spring840A, right-hand grip836B, and right-hand compression spring840B.FIG. 27shows adduction; by switching left-hand grip836A with left-hand compression spring840A, and right-hand grip836B with right-hand compression spring840B, abduction is possible. Left-hand end cap832A may comprise a left-hand outer attaching device844A to tie resistance bands for greater adduction loads. Right-hand end cap832B may comprise a right-hand outer attaching device844B to tie resistance bands for greater adduction loads. Left-hand grip836A may be disposed near left-hand stand834A, opposite left-hand end cap832A and about separable core bar838. Right-hand grip836B may be disposed near right-hand stand834B, opposite right-hand end cap832B and about separable core bar838. Left-hand grip836A may comprise a left-hand active attaching device846A to tie resistance bands (not shown) for greater adduction or abduction loads. Right-hand grip836B may comprise a right-hand active attaching device846B to tie resistance bands (not shown) for greater adduction or abduction loads. Left-hand grip836A and right-hand grip836B may advance along separable core bar838towards center brace842. Left-hand grip836A may engage left-hand compression spring840A adding additional resistance training. Right-hand grip836B may engage right-hand compression spring840B adding additional resistance training. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between left-hand outer attaching device844A and left-hand active attaching device846A may allow adduction resistance to be added when left-hand grip836A advances toward center brace842. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between right-hand outer attaching device844B and right-hand active attaching device846B may allow adduction resistance to be added when right-hand grip836B advances toward center brace842. Center brace842may comprise a center attaching device848to tie resistance bands (not shown). Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between the center attaching device848and left-hand active attaching device846A may allow abduction resistance to be added when left-hand grip836A advances towards left-hand stand834A. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between the center attaching device848and right-hand active attaching device846B may allow abduction resistance to be added when right-hand grip836B advances towards right-hand stand834B. Apparatus830may be placed on the ground and used in push-up exercises.

As shown inFIG. 28, an alternate embodiment of a weight bar with additional resistance training components is shown and described. The weight bar is an apparatus850that may comprise a left-hand end cap852A, a right-hand end cap852B, a left-hand roller854A, a right-hand roller854B, a left-hand grip856A, a right-hand grip856B, a separable core bar858, a left-hand compression spring860A, a right-hand compression spring860B, and a center brace862. Center brace862may be disposed about the middle of separable core bar858. Left-hand roller854A may be disposed about separable core bar858near one end and may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path P, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Right-hand roller854B may be disposed about separable core bar858near opposite end and may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path P′, about the longitudinal or roll axis. Left-hand roller854A and right-hand roller854B may be used upon the ground in order to move apparatus850laterally along the ground. Separable core bar858may remain static during lateral motion of apparatus850while left-hand roller854A and right-hand roller854B rotate independently, thereby inducing movement. Left-hand end cap852A may be secured to core bar858at one end and right-hand end cap852B may be secured to core bar858at an opposite end. Left-hand end cap852A may be removable to allow left-hand roller834A, left-hand grip836A, and left-hand compression spring840A to be removed or rearranged on separable core bar858. Right-hand end cap852B may be removable to allow right-hand roller834B, right-hand grip836B, and right-hand compression spring840B to be removed or rearranged on separable core bar858. Apparatus850may be used for adduction or abduction purposes, depending on arrangement of left-hand grip856A, left-hand compression spring860A, right-hand grip856B, and right-hand compression spring860B.FIG. 28shows adduction; by switching left-hand grips856A with left-hand compression spring860, and switching right-hand grip856B and right-hand compression spring860B, abduction is possible. Left-hand end cap842A may comprise a left-hand outer attaching device864A to tie resistance bands for greater adduction loads. Right-hand end cap842B may comprise a right-hand outer attaching device864B to tie resistance bands for greater adduction loads. Left-hand grip856A may be disposed near left-hand roller854A opposite left-hand end cap852A and about separable core bar858. Right-hand grip856B may be disposed near right-hand roller854B opposite right-hand end cap852B and about separable core bar858. Left-hand grip856A may comprise a left-hand active attaching device866A to tie resistance bands (not shown) for greater adduction or abduction loads. Right-hand grip856B may comprise a right-hand active attaching device866B to tie resistance bands (not shown) for greater adduction or abduction loads. Left-hand grip856A and right-hand grip856B may advance along separable core bar858towards center brace862. Left-hand grip856A may engage left-hand compression spring860A adding additional resistance training. Right-hand grip856B may engage right-hand compression spring860B adding additional resistance training. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between left-hand outer attaching device864A and left-hand active attaching device866A may allow adduction resistance to be added when left-hand grip856A advances toward center brace862. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between right-hand outer attaching device864B and right-hand active attaching device866B may allow adduction resistance to be added when right-hand grip856B advances toward center brace862. Center brace842may comprise a center attaching device868to tie resistance bands (not shown). Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between the center attaching device868and left-hand active attaching device866A may allow abduction resistance to be added when left-hand grip856A advances towards left-hand roller854A. Tying resistance bands (not shown) the length between the center attaching device868and right-hand active attaching device866B may allow abduction resistance to be added when right-hand grip856B advances towards right-hand roller854B. Left-hand grip856A may rotate 360 degrees along path Q, about the longitudinal or roll axis, allowing independent motion from left-hand roller854A and separable core bar858. Right-hand grip856B may rotate 360 degrees along path Q′, about the longitudinal or roll axis, allowing independent motion from right-hand roller854B and separable core bar858. Apparatus850may be placed on the ground and used in abdominal rolling exercises.

As shown inFIG. 29, an alternate embodiment of a pull-down bar with additional resistance training components capable of abduction is shown and described. The pull-down bar is apparatus870that may comprise a left-hand end cap872A, a right-hand end cap872B, a left-hand grip874A, a right-hand grip874B, a core bar876, a left-hand compression spring878A, a right-hand compression spring878B, a mounting harness880, a left set of locking pins882A, and a right set of locking pins882B. Left-hand end cap872A and right-hand end cap872B may be removable to allow insertion of alternate compression springs (not shown) with other resistances. Core bar876may bend at each end to allow wider applications. Left-hand grip874A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path R, about the longitudinal or roll axis, and advance along core bar876towards left-hand end cap872A. Left-hand grip874A may engage left-hand compression spring878A for addition abduction resistance during exercise. Right-hand grip874B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path R′, about the longitudinal or roll axis, and advance along core bar876towards right-hand end cap872B. Right-hand grip874B may engage right-hand compression spring878B for addition abduction resistance during exercise. Mounting harness880may be attached to a cable and pulley system (not shown) through attaching hole884, allowing pull-down weight training. Left-hand grip874A may lock to core bar876using left set of locking pins882A when additional abduction resistance is undesirable. Right-hand grip874B may lock to core bar876using right set of locking pins882B when additional abduction resistance is undesirable. Apparatus870may generally be used for pull-down exercises.

As shown inFIG. 30, an alternate embodiment of a pull-down straight bar with additional resistance training components capable of abduction is shown and described. An apparatus890may comprise a left-hand end cap892A, a right-hand end cap892B, a left-hand grip894A, a right-hand grip894B, a core bar896, a left-hand compression spring898A, a right-hand compression spring898B, and a mounting harness900. Left-hand end cap892A and right-hand end cap892B may be removable to allow insertion of alternate compression springs (not shown) with differing resistance. Left-hand grip894A may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path S, about the longitudinal or roll axis, and advance along core bar896towards left-hand end cap892A. Right-hand grip894B may be able to rotate 360 degrees along path S′, about the longitudinal or roll axis, and advance along core bar896towards right-hand end cap892B. Left-hand grip894A may engage left-hand compression spring898A for additional abduction resistance during exercise. Right-hand grip894B may engage right-hand compression spring898B for additional abduction resistance during exercise. Mounting harness900may be attached to a cable and pulley system (not shown) through attaching hole902, allowing isotonic weight training. Apparatus890may be used for pull-down exercises.

As shown inFIG. 31, an alternate embodiment of a pull-down straight bar with additional resistance training components capable of both adduction and abduction is shown and described. The pull-down straight bar is an apparatus910that may comprise a left partial core bar912A, a right partial core bar912B, a left-hand compression mechanism914A, a right-hand compression mechanism914B, a center mounting harness916, a left-hand adduction spring918A, a right-hand adduction spring918B, a left-hand abduction spring920A, a right-hand abduction spring920B, a left-hand end cap922A, and a right-hand end cap922B. Center mounting harness916may stet about the middle of apparatus910. Left-hand compression mechanism914A may be disposed midway between left-hand end cap922A and the center mounting harness916on one end. Right-hand compression mechanism914B may be disposed midway between right-hand end cap922B and the center mounting harness916on opposite end. The left-hand compression mechanism914A may advance along left partial core bar912A towards center mounting harness916and engage left-hand adduction spring918A. The right-hand compression mechanism914B may advance along right partial core bar912B towards center mounting harness916and engage right-hand adduction spring918B. The left-hand compression mechanism914A may advance along left partial core bar912A towards left-hand end cap922A and engage left-hand abduction spring920A. The right-hand compression mechanism914B may advance along right partial core bar912B towards right-hand end cap922B and engage right-hand abduction spring920B. Center mounting harness may comprise a left center cap924A and a right center cap924B. Left center cap924A may secure left partial core bar912A together with left-hand end cap922A. Right center cap924B may secure right partial core bar912B together with right-hand end cap922B. Center mounting harness916may be attached to a cable and pulley system (not shown) through attaching hole926, allowing isotonic weight training. Apparatus910may be used for pull-down isotonic exercises or adduction and abduction resistance exercises.

As shown inFIG. 32, a cross-sectional view of left-hand compression mechanism914A is shown and described. Left-hand compression mechanism914A may comprise a compression bolt930, a plurality of spring plates932, a handle934, and a plurality of screws936. Handle934may comprise a hand grip938for manipulation. Handle934may be secured or otherwise connected to spring plates932by screws936. Screws936may secure compression bolt930to spring plates932. Compression bolt930and spring plates932may be used to engage a compression spring (not shown).

As shown inFIG. 33, a sectional view of left partial core bar912A is shown and described. Left partial core bar912A may comprise a top core950and a bottom core952. Separating left partial core bar912A into two halves creates a compression sleeve954for a compression bolt (not shown) to pass through. Left-hand end cap922A may comprise a top end slot956A and a bottom end slot958A. Left center cap924A may comprise a top center slot956B and a bottom center slot958B. The top end slot956A and bottom end slot958A may extend half the length of left-hand end cap922A or enough to support left partial core bar912A. The top center slot956B and bottom center slot958B may extend half the length of left center cap924B or enough to support left partial core bar912A. The top core950may be inserted into top center slot956B on left center cap924A and into top end slot956A on left-hand end cap922A, securing the top half of core bar912. The bottom core952may be inserted into the bottom center slot958B on left center cap924A and into the bottom end slot958A on left-hand end cap922A, securing the bottom half of core bar912. Compression sleeve954may extend the length of core bar912between left-hand end cap922A and left center cap924A.

As shown inFIG. 34, an alternate embodiment of a triceps pull-down bar with additional resistance training components capable of abduction is shown and described. The triceps pull-down bar is an apparatus970that may comprise a core bar972A, a core bar972B, a hand grip974A, a hand grip974B, a compression spring976A, a compression spring976B, an end cap978A, and an end cap978B. Core bar972A and core bar972B may be cylindrical and arcuate throughout their entireties. Core bar972A may arc outwardly along path U and core bar972B may arc outwardly along path U′ producing the symmetrical apparatus970. Core bar972A and core bar972B may be connected together by an axle980passed through one end of both core bar972A and core bar972B. The axle980may allow core bar972A and core bar972B to rotate freely and independently around axle980. Axle980may comprise an eye hook982. Eye hook982may be connected to a cable984via a carabineer clip986or other linking device known to one in the art. Cable984may be attached to a weight stack (not shown) to allow isotonic weight training. Eye hook982may comprise a spindle988that allows apparatus970to rotate 360 degrees along path T. Hand grip974A may be disposed about the middle of core bar972A and hand grip974B may be disposed about the middle of core bar972B. Hand grip974A and hand grip974B may comprise a plurality of spring plates990. Spring plates990may be used to engage compression spring976A and compression spring976B. Spring plates990may be used to prevent an individual's hand from slipping off hand grip974A and hand grip974B. Hand grip974A and hand grip974B may be cylindrical and arcuate so they may advance along the entireties of core bar972A and core bar972B respectively. End cap978A may be disposed at one end of core bar972A opposite of axle980. End cap978B may be disposed at one end of core bar972B opposite of axle980. Compression spring976A may be disposed the length between end cap978A and hand grip974A along core bar972A. Compression spring976B may be disposed the length between end cap978B and hand grip974B along core bar972B. End cap978A may be affixed to a pivot (not shown). Pivot (not shown) may be disposed about and at end of core bar972A near end cap978A via a spindle axle994A. End cap978B may be affixed to a pivot (not shown). Pivot (not shown) may be disposed about and at end of core bar972B near end cap978B via a spindle axle994B.

Hand grip974A may advance along core bar972A towards end cap978A and engage compression spring976A. Hand grip974B may advance along core bar972B towards end cap978B and engage compression spring976B. Core bar972A may extend outwardly along path U, rotating about axle980, as hand grip974A advances toward end cap978A. Core bar972B may extend outwardly along path U′, rotating about axle980, as hand grip974B advances toward end cap978B. Core bar972A and core bar972B may be pulled downwards, pulling cable984, and lifting weight stack (not shown) for isotonic weight training. Extending core bar972A outwardly along path U and engaging compression spring976A with hand grip974A while simultaneously extending core bar972B outwardly along path U′ and engaging compression spring976B with hand grip974B with during isotonic weight training may add additional resistance training throughout arc of motion. End cap978A and end cap978B may be removable to allow insertion of alternate hand grips (not shown) or alternate springs (not shown) with varying resistance and to allow alternate arrangements (not shown).

As seen inFIG. 35, an alternate view of apparatus970is shown and described. Hand grip974A may be fully advanced along core bar972A, completely engaging compression spring976A, and completely extending core bar972A about axle980. Hand grip974B may be fully advanced along core bar972B, completely engaging compression spring976B, and completely extending core bar972B about axle980.

As seen inFIG. 36, an alternate embodiment of a seated row bar apparatus1010is shown and described. The apparatus1010may comprise a left-hand cylindrical core bar1012, a right-hand cylindrical core bar1014, an anchoring cylindrical core bar1016, a plurality of arcuate cylindrical core bars1018A,1018B, a plurality of right-hand interlocking flat bars1020A,1020B, and a plurality of left-hand interlocking flat bars1022A,1022B. Anchoring cylindrical core bar1016may comprise a mounting triangular plate1024. Mounting triangular plate1024may be disposed at half the length of anchoring cylindrical core bar1016. Mounting triangular plate1024may comprise an attaching hole1026to allow apparatus1010to be connected to a cable system (not shown) for use in isotonic weight training.

Anchoring cylindrical core bar1016may be connected to right-hand cylindrical core bar1014via right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A at one end and right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B at the other end. Right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A may comprise a top cylindrical tube1028A at one end and a bottom cylindrical tube1030A at the other end. Top cylindrical tube1028A may be disposed on a topside of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A and may allow anchoring cylindrical core bar1016to be placed within top cylindrical tube1028A so that anchoring cylindrical core bar1016may rotate 360 degrees along path V. Bottom cylindrical tube1030A may be disposed on an underside of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A and may allow right-hand cylindrical core bar1014to be placed within bottom cylindrical tube1030A so that right-hand cylindrical core bar1014may rotate 360 degrees along path V′. Right-hand cylindrical core bar1014may comprise a cylindrical arcuate hole1032A at one end so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A may pass through. Bottom cylindrical tube1030A may comprise an arcuate hole1034A so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A may pass through. Right-hand cylindrical core bar1014may terminate before arcuate hole1034A within bottom cylindrical tube1030A so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A may pass beyond right-hand cylindrical core bar1014and through arcuate hole1034A. Right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B may comprise a top cylindrical tube1028B at one end and a bottom cylindrical tube1030B at the other end.

Top cylindrical tube1028B may be disposed on the topside of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B and may allow anchoring cylindrical core bar1016to be placed within top cylindrical tube1028B so that anchoring cylindrical core bar1016may rotate 360 degrees along path V. Bottom cylindrical tube1030B may be disposed on the underside of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B and may allow right-hand cylindrical core bar1014to be placed within bottom cylindrical tube1030B so that right-hand cylindrical core bar1014may rotate 360 degrees along path V′. Bottom cylindrical tube1030B may be secured to arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B.

Right-hand cylindrical core bar1014may comprise an interior handle1036A. Interior handle1036A may be disposed at half the length of right-hand cylindrical core bar1014and may be used to protect an individual's fingers during exercise. Anchoring cylindrical core bar1016may be connected to left-hand cylindrical core bar1012via left-hand interlocking flat bar1022A at one end and left-hand interlocking flat bar1022B at the other end.

Left-hand interlocking flat bar1022A may comprise a hinge1038A at one end and a bottom cylindrical tube1040A at the other end. Hinge1038A may be attached to one end of top cylindrical tube1028A so as to allow right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A to rotate along path W. Bottom cylindrical tube1040A may be disposed on an underside of left-hand interlocking flat bar1022A and may allow left-hand cylindrical core bar1012to be placed within bottom cylindrical tube1040A so that left-hand cylindrical core bar1012may rotate 360 degrees along path V″. Bottom cylindrical tube1040A may be secured to arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A. Left-hand interlocking flat bar1022B may comprise a hinge1038B at one end and a bottom cylindrical tube1040B at the other end. Hinge1038B may be attached to one end of top cylindrical tube1028B so as to allow right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B to rotate along path W′. Bottom cylindrical tube1040B may be disposed on an underside of left-hand interlocking flat bar1022B and may allow left-hand cylindrical core bar1012to be placed within bottom cylindrical tube1040B so that left-hand cylindrical core bar1012may rotate 360 degrees along path V″. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1012may comprise a cylindrical arcuate hole1032B at one end so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B may pass through. Bottom cylindrical tube1040B may comprise an arcuate hole1034B so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B may pass through. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1012may terminate before arcuate hole1034B within bottom cylindrical tube1040B so that arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B may pass beyond left-hand cylindrical core bar1012and through arcuate hole1034B. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1012may comprise an interior handle1036B. Interior handle1036B may be disposed at about half the length of left-hand cylindrical core bar1012and may be used to protect an individual's fingers during exercise. Arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A may comprise a compression spring1042A that may be engaged to add additional resistance training. Arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B may comprise a compression spring1042B that may be engaged to add additional resistance training to exercise.

Alternatively, the apparatus1010may comprise one or more firm compression springs bridging the length between the right-hand cylindrical core bar and the left-hand cylindrical core bar. The firm compression springs may make the arcuate cylindrical core bars seen inFIG. 36redundant and unnecessary.

As shown inFIG. 37, an alternate view of apparatus1010is shown and described. Arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A may remain static as right-hand cylindrical core bar1014is moved towards left-hand cylindrical core bar1012. Right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A may rotate along path W, engaging compression spring1042A with bottom cylindrical tube1030A, and allowing arcuate cylindrical core bar1018A to pass through arcuate hole1034A. Arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B may move dependently with right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B as right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B rotates along path W′, engaging compression spring1042B with bottom cylindrical tube1040B, and allowing arcuate cylindrical core bar1018B to pass through arcuate hole1034B. Motion of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020A through path W and motion of right-hand interlocking flat bar1020B through path W′ may terminate when contact is made between interior handle1036A and interior handle1036B.

As shown inFIG. 38, an alternate embodiment of a V-bar apparatus1110is shown and described in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus1110may comprise a left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A, a right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B, a left-hand grip1114A, a right-hand grip1114B, an arcuate cylindrical core bar1116, an adduction compression spring1118, a left-hand abduction compression spring1120A, a right-hand abduction compression spring1120B, a left-hand end cap1122A, and a right-hand end cap1122B. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A may be connected to right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B via an axle1124passed through one end of both left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A and right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B. The axle1124may allow left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A and right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B to rotate freely and independently around axle1124. Axle1124may comprise an eye hook1126. Eye hook1126may be connected to a cable (not shown) via a carabineer clip (not shown) or other linking device known to one in the art. The cable (not shown) may be attached to a weight stack (not shown) to allow isotonic weight training. Eye hook1126may comprise a spindle1128that may allow apparatus1110to rotate 360 degrees along path X.

Left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A may comprise an arcuate cylindrical hole1130A to allow arcuate cylindrical core bar1116to passed through. Right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B may comprise an arcuate cylindrical hole1130B to allow arcuate cylindrical core bar1116to passed through. Left-hand grip1114A may stet one end of left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A opposite of axle1124. Right-hand grip1114B may stet one end of right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B opposite of axle1124. Arcuate cylindrical core bar1116may be passed through arcuate cylindrical hole1130A and arcuate cylindrical hole1130B simultaneously. Adduction compression spring1118may be disposed about arcuate cylindrical core bar1116and span the length between left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A and right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A may adduct along path Y and engage adduction compression spring1118. Right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B may adduct along path Y′ and engage adduction compression spring1118. Arcuate cylindrical core bar may terminate on one end with left-hand end cap1122A and on other end with right-hand end cap1122B.

Left-hand abduction compression spring1120A may be disposed about arcuate cylindrical core bar1116and span the length between left-hand end cap1122A and left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A. Right-hand abduction compression spring1120B may be disposed about arcuate cylindrical core bar1116and span the length between right-hand end cap1122B and right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B. Left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A may abduct along path Z and engage left-hand abduction compression spring1120A. Right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B may abduct along path Z′ and engage right-hand abduction compression spring1120B. Abduction and adduction exercises of left-hand cylindrical core bar1112A and right-hand cylindrical core bar1112B may be done simultaneously or independently.

Referring now toFIG. 39, an alternate embodiment of a v-grip bar is shown and described. The v-grip bar apparatus1200may be capable of adduction. Apparatus1200may comprise a left-hand grip1210on one end, a right-hand grip1212on an opposite end, and a torsion spring1214spanning the length between left-hand grip1210and right-hand grip1212. Left-hand grip1210may move inwardly along path AA while right-hand grip1212may move inwardly along path BB during a repetition. As left-hand grip1210and right-hand grip1212move inwardly during a repetition, torsion spring1214may be engaged, adding additional resistance throughout the contraction of the specific muscle or muscle group of the user. Left-hand grip1210and right-hand grip1212may be held at a top end or a bottom end during a repetition. Left-hand grip1210may comprise of a plurality of non-slip hand stops1216A,1216B and right-hand grip1212may comprise of a plurality of non-slip hand stops1216C,1216D. Non-slip hand stop1216A may prevent the left hand of a user from slipping from top end of left-hand grip1210while non-slip hand stop1216B may prevent the left hand of a user from slipping from bottom end of left-hand grip1210. Non-slip hand stop1216C may prevent the right hand of a user from slipping from top end of right-hand grip1212while non-slip hand stop1216D may prevent the right hand of a user from slipping from bottom end of right-hand grip1212. A repetition performed with the left hand of a user at the top end of left-hand grip1210and the right hand of a user at the top end of right-hand grip1212may have a higher difficulty of completion and a larger impact on strength training.

Torsion spring1214may comprise an attaching loop1218that may be able to attach to a cable and pulley system for isotonic strength training. The torsion spring1214may be of any length and have any number of loops such that during a repetition the resistance of torsion spring1214increases with the amount of force applied. Apparatus1200may be used in isotonic strength training, specifically triceps push-downs, but is not limited to this exercise. Apparatus1200may be pushed downwardly when attached to a cable and pulley system and may lift a weight stack (not shown). As the weight stack (not shown) is lifted by a user, apparatus1200may be adducted, engaging torsion spring1214, and providing additional resistance training throughout the contraction of the muscles of the user.

As shown inFIG. 40, an abdominal roller apparatus1230is shown and described in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. The abdominal roller apparatus1230may be used multi-directionally along the floor or alternate flat surface. The apparatus1230may comprise a ball1232and a socket device1234. The socket device1234may be placed on top of ball1232allowing for the socket device1234to move freely on top of ball1232. The socket device1234may rotate in any direction on top of ball1232while ball1232is stationary or in motion. The socket device1234may allow ball1232to rotate freely beneath socket device1234allowing the apparatus1230to move across a floor or alternate flat surface. Ball1232may rotate in any direction allowing apparatus1230to move forwards, backwards, sideways, diagonally, arcuate, and any combination thereof. Socket device1234may comprise a plurality of side grips1236and a plurality of top grips1238. Side grips1236and top grips1238may be used by a user to hold apparatus1230when utilizing the same. For example, side grips1236may be used with an overhand grip, an underhand grip, or a combination thereof depending on the desired exercise. Top grips1238may be used with an overhand grip, an underhand grip, or a combination thereof depending on the desired exercise. Top grips1238may additionally allow a user to palm the socket device1234itself while preventing a user's hands from shifting positions. The freely rotating ability of the apparatus1230may allow a user to increase balance, strength, and stabilization throughout the user's workout.

Apparatus1230may be used in combination with a resistance band (not shown). The resistance band (not shown) may be attached to side grips1236or top grips1238on one end and attached to a user's knees or feet on an opposite end. The resistance band (not shown) may also be attached to side grips1236or top grips1238on both ends. A user may then place a length of the resistance band (not shown) behind the user's knees or feet, creating two smaller resistance bands and increasing the effective resistance. A user may push apparatus1230away from himself or herself, stretching the resistance band (not shown), and thereby increasing resistance during contraction of the muscle through the repetition. Apparatus1230may be used differently in combination with a resistance ban that increases the resistance during the contraction of muscles during the repetition.

Referring now toFIG. 41, a push-up apparatus1250is shown and described in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. The push-up apparatus1250may be used multi-directionally along the floor or alternate flat surface during push-up exercises. The push-up apparatus1250may comprise a core grip1252, a bearing carriage1254, a plurality of ball bearings1256, and a soft cover1258. The plurality of ball bearings1256may allow the push-up apparatus1250to move forwards, backwards, sideways, diagonally, arcuate, and any combination thereof. The core grip1252and bearing carriage1254may be made from a sturdy plastic, metal, or alternative strong material known to one skilled in the art that would support the body weight of a user. The soft cover1258may be made of a padded material, a foam, or alternate soft material known to one skilled in the art that may allow a user to comfortably grip the push-up apparatus1250within the user's hand.

As shown inFIG. 42, an exploded view of push-up apparatus1250is shown and described. The plurality of ball bearings1256may be secured within bearing carriage1254and may allow the bearing carriage1254to move forwards, backwards, sideways, diagonally, arcuately, and any combination thereof. Core grip1252may be permanently affixed to bearing carriage1254and may allow a user to harness the push-up apparatus1250. The soft cover1258may be placed directly onto core grip1252, creating a comforting grip surface for a user to manipulate.

An individual may use one or more push-up apparatuses1250to preform push-up exercises. For example, a user may grip a push-up apparatus1250in either hand and perform a push-up exercise. The plurality of ball bearings1256may create an additional need to balance and stabilize the user throughout the repetition. The additional need to balance and stabilize may increase the strength of a user's stabilization muscles along with the specific muscle group the push-up was intended to exercise. A user may rotate, extend, contract, or otherwise move the push-up apparatus1250during a repetition in order to focus on different muscle groups.

Push-up apparatus1250may be used in combination with a resistance band (not shown). For example, the resistance band (not shown) may be wrapped around a user's arms prior to exercise. As a user performs a push-up, the user may extend the push-up apparatus1250outwards, stretch the resistance band, and thereby increase the resistance during contraction of the muscle through the repetition. Push-up apparatus1250may be used in combination with a resistance band that increases the resistance during the contraction of muscles during the repetition.

Referring now toFIGS. 43-45, a preferred embodiment is shown and described. Weight lifting apparatus1300may comprise a plurality of alternate mounting devices1302. Alternate mounting device1302may work similarly to mounting device14shown and described inFIG. 1. Alternate mounting device1302may be comprised of a hand grip1303to allow a user to maneuver alternate mounting device1302. A plurality of weight plates1304may be placed onto alternate mounting device1302much like any weight mounting device. Alternate mounting device1302may traverse a core bar1306and contact a spring1308. Spring1308may be attached to alternate mounting device1302on one end and an end cap1310on another end. Spring1308may alternately be attached to alternate mounting device1302on one end and a center cap1312on another end. End cap1310may be removable and may withstand forces of spring1308when alternate mounting device1302engages spring1308. When spring1308is attached to alternate mounting device1302and end cap1310, a user may adduct the plurality of alternate mounting devices1302and stretch the plurality of springs1302thereby increasing adduction resistance as shown inFIG. 44. When spring1308is attached to alternate mounting device1302and end cap1310, a user may abduct the plurality of alternate mounting devices1302and compress the plurality of springs1302thereby increasing abduction resistance as shown inFIG. 45. When spring1308is attached to alternate mounting device1302and center cap1312, a user may adduct the plurality of alternate mounting devices1302and compress the plurality of springs1302thereby increasing adduction resistance. When spring1308is attached to alternate mounting device1302and center cap1312, a user may abduct the plurality of alternate mounting devices1302and stretch the plurality of springs1302thereby increasing abduction resistance.

InFIGS. 45-46, a plurality of locking holes1314,1316are shown and described. As shown inFIG. 45, locking holes1314may be exposed when user abducts weight lifting apparatus1300and completely compresses springs1308. As shown inFIG. 46, locking holes1316may be exposed when springs1308are removed and user abducts weight lifting apparatus1300. Locking holes1314,1316may be used by inserting locking pins (not shown) to hold alternative mounting device1302in an abduction position. Alternatively, spring loaded push buttons (not shown) may be disposed within locking holes1314,1316and may pop out of locking holes1314,1316when alternate mounting device1302traverses past locking holes1314,1316. Spring loaded push buttons (not shown) may withstand the force of spring1308along with the added weight of weight plates1304. Spring loaded push buttons (not shown) may also be pressed down by a user to move alternate mounting devices1302and return weight lifting apparatus1300to normal operation.