Exercise roller

The present invention provides an improved exercise roller apparatus having a cylindrical body with at least one unobstructed inner compartment and wrapped in a foam sleeve. The hollow compartment(s) may hold variable amounts of weights in a fixed position such that the weights do not shift while the roller is in use and the roller rolls steadily on a smooth surface. The foam sleeve provides the cushion necessary to comfortably roll the body over the roller during therapeutic roller use or roller-aided exercises. Handgrips are provided on the body to transform the roller into a versatile weight-lifting apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a physical exercise apparatus and, more specifically, to an apparatus that improves upon exercise rollers by adding more versatility and enhanced utility in physical fitness training activities such as muscle building exercises, stretching, and massage therapy.

Conventional exercise rollers are used in exercises in physiotherapy, Pilates, yoga, and rehabilitation. They are typically solid foam structures with a smooth surface and are available in variety of hardnesses, depending on the desired result and/or the particular preference of a user. Conventional exercise rollers are ideal for stretching exercises and can help improve stability and flexibility of the user and are useful for assisting with core strength and balance training.

Foam exercise rollers have recently become popular outside of the personal training and physical therapy realms and are now being used to assist people in training and exercising on their own. As such, there is a need for exercise rollers that provide users with a broader range of exercise options as well as easy portability. The present invention aims to provide exercise rollers that are portable whole body exercise tools for multiple purpose use as a core fitness development apparatus, an accessory to general fitness, and a therapeutic and/or rehabilitative aid. Such an apparatus can aid with general stretching, body rolling, and balance training, while also including features that enable users to perform muscle-building exercises, such as deadlifts or weight-assisted core-strengthening exercises, or specific sports-related exercises, such as golf exercises, tennis exercises, volleyball exercises, or sailing exercises.

The concept of designing exercise rollers for personal use is not new. However, none of the prior art provides a whole body exercise tool as described above. For example, the following consumer products and patents/patent applications are examples of various exercise roller apparatuses currently known in the art:The ProUnit Performance Trainer, as described at http://www.exercisewithafoamroller.com/, is a currently-marketed exercise roller that is used for a broad range of exercises. This device has handles on either end of the roller, but cannot be used to effectively perform weightlifting activities, such as deadlifts.OPTP is a manufacturer of foam exercise rollers, such as the OPTP Mobil-izer™ Roll, which has an outer foam layer and a solid PVC core.WO2013001314 discloses a physical exercise apparatus comprising a hollow cylindrical device having first and second end caps, at least one of which is removable from its respective end region, which enclose a hollow space in which other exercise tools may be stored. The roller itself is of a fixed weight.Poirier, U.S. Pat. No. 8,556,837 B1, discloses a therapeutic roller apparatus that includes soft foam material sleeve that is mounted about a rigid plastic roller that contains a vibration assembly. The vibration assembly includes a weight and motor together, which provide a vibratory effect when operated that is transferred through to the outer soft foam material sleeve.Godfrey et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,663 B2, discloses a vibrating massage roller similar to Poirier, but emphasizes the design of the vibrational assembly (i.e., an assembly utilizing a plurality of supports and eccentric weights).Castiglione, U.S. Pat. App. No. 2011/0300995, discloses a foam roller comprised of at least two sub exercise roller units connected together to form a single exercise roller and separable to be usable as separate exercise rollers.

The exercise rollers described above are generally useful but do not disclose the improved features of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention now satisfied a need in the art for compact, portable exercise rollers that provide (1) easy weight adjustments between exercises, (2) a storage compartment for securing additional weights, (3) a configuration that aids in the performance of many common weightlifting exercises, and (4) easy portability for exercising at home, with a trainer, or on-the-go.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention provides an improved exercise roller apparatus comprising an adjustable weighting component comprising one or more dumbbells or donut weights that provide additional weight of about 2.5 to 55 pounds to the apparatus; a rigid cylindrical body defining an unobstructed chamber configured and dimensioned to receive the dumbbell(s) or some of donut weight(s) therein; a foam material surrounding at least a portion of the cylindrical body; and a first removable end cap on one end of the cylindrical body. Advantageously, the first end cap houses one donut weight and includes a rigid cylindrical support rod extending into the chamber from the end cap, with the support rod configured and dimensioned for supporting additional donut weights in the chamber to provide the adjustable weighting component.

Preferably, the exercise roller apparatus further comprises a second removable end cap on the other end of the cylindrical body, wherein the second end cap houses one donut weight and includes a rigid cylindrical support rod extending into the chamber from the end cap, with the support rod configured and dimensioned for supporting additional donut weights in the chamber so that the adjustable weighting component provides additional weight of at least 5 pounds to the apparatus. In this arrangement, the first and second end caps each have one donut weight affixed thereto, and the adjustable weighting component includes a selectable plurality of donut weights, each of which includes one or more magnets on an outer surface thereof so that the donut weights are magnetically attracted to each other to hold the weights against the end cap, with the donut weights provided on the support rod of the first end cap, the support rod of the second end cap or on both support rods.

To provide additional support to the center of the apparatus, a central partition that divides the chamber into first and second unobstructed chambers is provide, so that each end of the body can include a removable end cap that houses one donut weight and includes a rigid cylindrical support rod extending into the chamber from the end cap. Also, the entire outer surface of the cylindrical body and including the cylindrical surface of the end cap preferably includes foam material.

To attach the end cap to the body, the first end cap includes two spaced catches and the cylindrical body includes two correspondingly spaced recesses each with a draw latch for removable connection of the first end cap to the cylindrical body by engagement of the latches and catches. In this embodiment, the foam material would not be provided on the recesses.

Alternatively, the first end cap may be threadedly engaged with the end of the cylindrical body, with the adjustable weighting component including one or more dumbbells and with the support rod holding the dumbbell in place in the chamber.

The exercise roller apparatus further comprises at least one handgrip assembly affixed to the cylindrical body such that the entire weight of the apparatus may be supported by a user gripping the handgrip assembly, wherein the handgrip assembly is movable between a collapsed position adjacent the cylindrical body and an extended position for grasping and holding of the apparatus, and wherein the entire outer surface of the cylindrical body except for the handgrip assembly includes foam material.

The body of the apparatus is typically made of plastic material and has an assembled length of about 10 to 50 inches and a diameter of about 5 to 10 inches with each support rod configured to support from about 2.5 to 25 pounds of donut weights, each donut weight preferably weighing 2.5 pounds.

In a most preferred embodiment, the exercise roller apparatus comprises an adjustable weighting component comprising two or more dumbbells or donut weights that provide additional weight of about 5 to 55 pounds to the apparatus; a rigid cylindrical body having a central partition with the body defining first and second unobstructed chambers to receive dumbbell(s) or donut weight(s) of the weighting component therein; a first removable end cap on one end of the cylindrical body, having one donut weight of the adjustable weighting component affixed thereto and including a rigid cylindrical support rod extending into the first chamber from the first end cap, with the support rod configured and dimensioned for holding a dumbbell or supporting additional donut weights in the first chamber to provide part of the adjustable weighting component; a second removable end cap on the other end of the cylindrical body, having one donut weight of the adjustable weighting component affixed thereto and including a rigid cylindrical support rod extending into the second chamber from the second end cap, with the support rod configured and dimensioned for holding a dumbbell or supporting additional donut weights in the second chamber to provide a remaining part of the adjustable weighting component; and two handgrip assemblies affixed to the cylindrical body in a linearly aligned and spaced arrangement such that the entire weight of the apparatus may be supported by a user gripping the handgrip assemblies, wherein each handgrip assembly is movable between a collapsed position adjacent the cylindrical body and an extended position for grasping and holding of the apparatus. The entire outer surface of the cylindrical body except for the handgrip assembly includes foam material. Also, the exercise roller apparatus has an assembled length of about 10 to 50 inches and a diameter of about 5 to 10 inches, and each cylindrical support rod is configured and dimensioned to fit within the rigid cylindrical body and support about 5 to 25 pounds of additional weight.

One aspect of the preferred embodiment has each end cap including two spaced catches with the cylindrical body including four correspondingly spaced recesses, two for each end cap. Each recess includes a draw latch for removable connection of the end caps to the cylindrical body by engagement of the latches and catches. The foam material covers the entire outer surface of the cylindrical body except for the handgrips and recesses.

Another aspect of the preferred embodiment has each end cap threadedly engaged with the end of the cylindrical body, with the adjustable weighting component including two dumbbells, one in each chamber with the support rod holding the dumbbell in place in the respective chamber.

For either embodiment, wherein each chamber preferably includes an equal part of the weighting component and wherein each end cap has an outer cylindrical surface also includes foam material.

The invention also relates to a kit for transporting and assembling the exercise roller apparatus. The kit includes the various parts that can be assembled with the desired amount of weight to conduct exercise activities.

The features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the preferred embodiment and the appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As noted herein, the present invention is directed to an improved exercise roller apparatus comprising a cylindrical tube having at least one unobstructed or hollow inner compartment and wrapped in a foam sleeve. The hollow compartment(s) are used to hold an adjustable weighting component comprising one or more dumbbells or donut weights that provide additional weight of about 2.5 to 55 pounds to the apparatus. The end caps can hold or maintain the weights in a fixed position such that the weights do not shift while the roller is in use and the roller rolls steadily on a smooth surface. The outer foam sleeve provides the necessary cushioning to comfortably roll the body over the roller during therapeutic roller use or roller-aided exercises. At least one removable handgrip are provided on the roller in order to transform the roller into a weight-lifting device. For example, two handgrips may be affixed to the roller such that the handgrips are oriented in a linear, spaced alignment so that they can be grasped by a user in order to lift the roller during weight training exercises, such as deadlifts or core-strengthening exercises.

The present invention aims to provide users with a broad range of exercise options as well as easy portability. In particular, the present invention aims to provide portable whole body exercise tools for multiple purpose use as a core fitness development apparatus, an accessory to general fitness, and a therapeutic and/or rehabilitative aid. As mentioned above, such an apparatus can aid with general stretching, body rolling, and balance training, while also including features that enable users to perform muscle-building exercises, such as deadlifts and weight-assisted core exercises, or specific sports-related exercises, such as golf exercises, tennis exercises, volleyball exercises, or sailing exercises. This is accomplished by providing an exercise roller with the following features:at least one storage compartment for securely holding removable weights;quick and easy disassembly or adjustment to the desired weight;effectively used for therapeutic purposes as well as intensive weight training;easily and comfortably carried and transported (i.e., is configured and dimensioned to fit within and/or attach to a gym bag, backpack, or travel bag);can be made of a variety of materials (e.g., PVC body and foam);can include features to increase users' comfort (e.g., foam sleeves of variable hardness); andis cost-effective from both a manufacturer's and consumer's point of view.

Referring now to the figures, wherein like numbers represent like elements,FIGS. 1-3show exterior views of one embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 1is an exterior top-view of the present invention showing the exercise roller10in fully assembled form, whileFIG. 2is an exterior side-view of the same embodiment of present invention in fully assembled form.FIG. 3is an end view to show end cap12. Both figures show that the exercise roller10is of a cylindrical shape of length L, ranging from 10 to 40 inches, and diameter D, ranging from 5 to 10 inches. The exercise roller itself comprises a cylindrical body11with removable end caps12on both ends of the cylindrical body11, as shown. The end caps12have a domed end surface to provide a smooth, aesthetic appearance, and a cylindrical side.

The exercise roller10may be carried or lifted during exercise by handgrips13which are fastened to the exercise roller through slide clips14. The slide clips14are preferably configured to allow the handle to be movable between a collapsed position where the handgrips13are placed adjacent the cylindrical body, and an extended position as shown for grasping and holding of the apparatus. The collapsed position allows the roller to roll along the floor without the handles causing any interruption in rolling movement. Of course, the entire outer surface of the cylindrical body except for the handgrip assemblies includes a layer of foam material to facilitate use of the device as a roller. The cylindrical sides of the end caps12also are provided with foam. When the handle13is in the expanded position, exercises such as deadlifts may be performed by lifting the exercise roller10by the handgrips13.

The exercise roller's cylindrical body11and removable end caps12are preferably made of a hard but relatively lightweight material, such as a plastic, e.g., PVC, to resist deformation or damage from use, particularly because of the toughness required to house and carry the removable weights as well as withstand the weight of the user during rolling exercises. The end caps may be configured with a rounded top12bfor aesthetic purposes as well as to avoid a sharp corner. The exercise roller further comprises a thin layer of a foam material20surrounding the cylindrical body11as well as additional foam material20aon the cylindrical side12aof each end cap12. Any foam material can be used, ranging from those made of various softer or harder materials (e.g., various foam materials of different densities or thicknesses) depending on the desired cushioning effect. A polyurethane foam having a density of between 1.8 and 3.2 pounds per cubic foot is preferred but other foams having a similar density would also be suitable. The foam material may be applied to the body as a layer that is adhered thereto. Alternatively, the foam material can be configured as a sleeve or tube which is slid over the body for engagement thereto. Preferably, the weight of a fully assembled exercise roller apparatus, without any additional removable weights inside, does not exceed 20 pounds and typically is around 5 to 10 pounds.

FIG. 3also shows the handle13and attachment clips14extending above the body11. The handgrip13is configured and dimensioned to comfortably fit the average hand of the targeted user (e.g., average female hand, average male hand, etc.).

FIG. 4illustrates the support rod15which is attached to the interior of the removable end cap12. This rod15receives donut weights22. One of the donut weights22is fixed to the inside of the end cap12to increase the weight of the apparatus when used for lifting exercises. The fixed donut weight also serves as an end support for the remaining weights. The other donut weights22are simply slid along the center support rod15into place.

To be held against the end weight, the end face21of the donut weights22are preferably studded or otherwise provided with magnets23or are fully or partially magnetized (see e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,216,508) on the inwardly facing side of the weight (i.e., the side which faces away from the end cap). The magnets23allow additional weights22to be held in place near the end of the cap12next to the donut weight that is fixed thereto so that the additional donut weights22do not move around in the apparatus during transport or use. Although 5 magnets are shown this is not a critical number and any number between 2 and 10 can be used as desired. Generally the greater weight donuts will require a greater number or larger size of magnets.

The additional donut weights22are simply slid upon the support rod15where they can be moved toward and be magnetically attached to or otherwise maintained in position next to the fixed donut weight. Each donut weight22preferably may weigh between 1 and 10 pounds but preferably weighs 2.5 pounds, and the user can determine how many to include depending upon the weight of the donut and the overall weight of the device that is needed for their exercises.

The end caps12may be removably attached to the cylindrical body11in any one of a variety of ways. As shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 9 and 10, a snap locking device can be used. Typically two snap locks are provided on opposite sides of the body member. These locks are provided in a recessed area on the body11and the end cap12with a draw latch16and associated loop17mounted in the recess on the body11and a mating catch18provided on the end cap in line with the draw latch and loop.

FIGS. 9-10are cross sectional views that provide further details regarding the snap connection of the end caps12and the arrangement of the donut weights22in the body11. Also shown in the internal partition19which separates the chamber into first11aand second11bchambers. InFIG. 9, the snap connection is shown in an open position for the end cap that is to be removably connected to body11to close off chamber11a, while at the other end of the body, the snap connection is shown in a closed position for attaching the end cap to the body to close off chamber11b.FIG. 9also shows the use of 7 additional weights in chamber11aand 10 additional weights in chamber11b. Chamber11bis full such of the weights such that no more can be added, which represented the maximum weight that can be provided by the device. Chamber11adoes have more room so that the user can add further weight as they develop their strength and conditioning.

FIG. 10shows the support rods15without the addition of the weights except for the weights that are affixed to the end caps12.FIG. 10also shows the handle13and attachment clips14in the collapsed position so that the device can be rolled along the floor without interference from the handle. If course, the arrangement can have a slight locking aspect to it so that movement of the device does not cause the handle to become dislodged from the collapsed position.

FIG. 11shown the use of free weights or dumbbells25in the chambers11a,11brather than the donut weights. Also shown is the use of a threaded connection to secure the end cap12onto the body11. The body includes a shoulder portion that is provided with threads27which are configured to mate with the threads28on the interior surface of the cylindrical portion of the end cap12. Alternatively, a press fit connection is possible but the screw threads provide the most secure attachment of the end cap to the body to maintain the free weights therein. After the dumbbell25of the desired weight is placed into the chamber, the end caps are screwed onto the body to secure the weights therein.

To allow the end cap to be attached to the body, the support rod15is first removed. To allow such removal, the support rod15is removably attached to the end cap by providing a threaded end29of the rod15for engagement with the threaded opening30of the end cap12as shown inFIG. 12. Alternatively, a twist lock or clamp connector can be used to removably receive the support rod15. The end cap12can receive a smaller rod or post which can be sized to contact the dumbbell25and urge it against partition19so that it does not move about in the chamber during use. This smaller rod or post can screw into the end cap in the same manner as the support rod15.

Alternatively, the interior of the chamber can be designed to accept the weights in a way that restricts their movement, such as a conforming or friction fit of the dumbbells in the chamber. When the user wished to return to the use of donut weights, the center support rod15may be connected to the end cap12to provide a guide and support for the additional removable donut weights22.

Preferably, the weight of a fully assembled exercise roller apparatus, including additional removable weights inside, does not exceed 100 pounds and is typically around 40 to 60 pounds for most users. By adding or removing such weights, the overall weight of the apparatus can be changed to accommodate the abilities of the user.

A carry strap (not shown) may also be affixed to the exercise roller apparatus in a way similar to the removable handgrips, or it may be removably affixed to the handgrips themselves. Such a strap would allow for easy portability of the exercise roller.

In an alternative embodiment, rather than have a dual chamber cylinder with a central partition, two separate chambers can be provided. These two chambers can be joined by male and female portions typically being press-fit together or by having screw male and female mating screw threads. The ends that are joined together can include internal partitions so that the cylinder end is closed when the two halves are not connected. This allows the user to create two weighted half cylinders, each of which is provided with a hand grip so that they can be lifted or manipulated separately with each hand or arm. The internal weights can be the same as described previously. Alternatively, additional end caps can be provided to close off the open ends when the two halves are separated. And when the hand grips are removed, two separate rollers are provided for use, e.g., individually with each leg.

While there has been shown and described what are considered to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it will of course be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention not be limited to the exact form and detail herein shown and described, nor to anything less than the true spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.