Handlebars with rebounding punching pads for an exercise device

A multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebar for an exercise device is provided, the handlebar including optional rebounding and multi-positional punching pads. The handlebar can include first, second, and/or third handlebar portions extending from a transverse extension piece, each portion having left and right sections. Each section of each portion can include proximal, internal, and/or distal segments. The first, second, and/or third handlebar portions are rotatable relative to a longitudinal axis of the transverse extension piece, providing for multiple, user selected fixed angular positions of the handlebar portions relative to the transverse extension piece. Each of the proximal, internal, and/or distal segments can be longitudinally and rotatably adjusted relative to one another, then fixedly secured, providing the overall handlebar with multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional capability.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to work-out methods and exercise apparatus directed to stamina, endurance, coordination, balance, speed and power; and more particularly to specifically designed handlebars with rebounding punching pads for use on an exercise device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Although work-out regimens and exercise equipment are popular and widely available, very few offer both upper and lower body conditioning, simultaneous aerobic and anaerobic training, and fewer offer mixed activity for muscle confusion (i.e., providing varied muscle stress over time, by varying exercise, sets, repetitions and resistance, to avoid muscle accommodation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides bicycling (or use of another type of exercise device) for the lower body, various hand positioning on multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebars while exercising (e.g., bicycling) for the upper body, punching bag training for the upper body in conjunction with various positional use of the handlebars, and a combination of the above, to add coordination, balance and agility to an otherwise directed speed, power and endurance work-out.

In one aspect, specifically designed, multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebars, with optional rebounding punching pads are provided for use on an exercise device, such as a bicycle.

In one embodiment, a handlebar includes a transverse extension piece adapted to be connected to a stem of an exercise device at a midpoint of the transverse extension piece. The transverse extension piece has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis symmetrically bisecting the transverse extension piece through the midpoint. The transverse axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

An embodiment of the handlebar can include a first handlebar portion having left and right sections, where each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion have a proximal segment attached to the transverse extension piece on respective opposite ends of the transverse extension piece that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece, generally in a direction of the transverse axis. Further, each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can have an internal segment attached to a forward end of the proximal segment that extends at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece. Each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can also have a distal segment attached to a forward end of the internal segment that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis.

An embodiment of the handlebar can also include a second handlebar portion having left and right sections, where each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion have a proximal segment attached to the transverse extension piece inwardly of the respective opposite ends of the transverse extension piece that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece, generally in a direction of the transverse axis. Further, each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion can have a distal segment attached to a forward end of the proximal segment that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis.

An embodiment of the handlebar can also include a third handlebar portion having left and right sections, where each of the left and the right sections of the third handlebar portion have a proximal segment attached to the transverse extension piece inwardly of a point of attachment of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion with the transverse extension piece (and inwardly of the opposite ends of the transverse extension piece) that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece, generally in a direction of the transverse axis. Further, each of the left and the right sections of the third handlebar portion can have an internal segment attached to a forward end of the proximal segment that extends at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece. Each of the left and the right sections of the third handlebar portion can have a distal segment attached to a forward end of the internal segment that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis.

In an embodiment of the handlebar, the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can be positioned above the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion, which can be positioned above the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the third handlebar portion, all relative to a position of the transverse extension piece. In another embodiment, the internal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion also extend inwardly toward the transverse axis.

In still another embodiment of the handlebar, the proximal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend parallel to the transverse axis. The internal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend 45 degrees inwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the respective proximal segment, and the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend parallel to the transverse extension piece.

In a further embodiment of the handlebar, the proximal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend 10-12 degrees upwardly relative to the transverse axis. The internal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend 45 degrees inwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the respective proximal segment, and the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion can extend parallel to the transverse extension piece.

Any embodiment of the handlebar can further include a triangular shaped handlebar portion attached to the transverse extension piece, centrally located thereon, symmetrical about the transverse axis thereof. In one embodiment thereof, the attachment of the triangular shaped handlebar portion to the transverse extension piece is configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis of the transverse extension piece. After adjustment, the triangular shaped handlebar portion can then be fixedly secured, providing a user selected angle of the triangular shaped handlebar portion relative to the transverse axis.

Any embodiment of the handlebar can further include at least one punching pad attached to the transverse extension piece. The attachment of the at least one punching pad to the transverse extension piece can provide rebounding capability (i.e., be configured to allow the punching pad to rebound upon being hit by a user). In one embodiment thereof, the attachment of the at least one punching pad to the transverse extension piece is configured to provide multiple fixed positions for the at least one punching pad, each position configured to allow the punching pad to rebound upon being hit by a user.

In a certain embodiment of the handlebar including the at least one punching pad, one of the multiple fixed positions of the at least one punching pad locates a side of the at least one punching pad aligned adjacent to a side of a proximal segment of the first handlebar portion. In another embodiment, one of the multiple fixed positions locates a longitudinal axis of the at least one punching pad perpendicularly relative to transverse axis.

In another embodiment of the handlebar, two punching pads are included, each attached to the transverse extension piece. In a two punching pad embodiment, each providing multiple fixed positions of attachment, one of the multiple fixed positions can locate each punching pad between the proximal segment of the first handlebar portion and the proximal segment of the second handlebar portion.

In yet another embodiment of the handlebar, the attachment of at least the proximal segments of each of the left and the right sections of the second and the third handlebar portions to the transverse extension piece are configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis of the transverse extension piece, then fixed securement, providing a user selected angle of the respective proximal segment relative to the transverse axis. This embodiment could further include that the attachment of the proximal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion to the transverse extension piece is also configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis of the transverse extension piece, then fixed securement, providing a user selected angle of the respective proximal segment relative to the transverse axis.

In still another embodiment of the handlebar, the attachment of the distal segments of each of the left and the right sections of the first and the third handlebar portions to the internal segments of each of the left and the right sections of the first and the third handlebar portions are configured to provide longitudinal and radial adjustment therebetween, then fixed securement, providing a user selected multi-dimensional angle of the respective distal segment relative to the respective internal segment. In this embodiment, the internal segments of the left and the right section of the first handlebar portion extends 45 degrees relative to the transverse extension piece. Still further, or in the alternative, the attachment of the distal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion to the proximal segment of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion can also be configured to provide longitudinal and radial adjustment therebetween, then fixed securement, providing a user selected multi-dimensional angle of the respective distal segment relative to the respective proximal segment.

In one aspect, a bicycle is provided, the bicycle including a frame, at least a pedal and/or wheel rotatably mounted to the frame, a seat connected to the frame, a stem extending from the frame forward of the seat, and any embodiment of a handlebar described above. The handlebar can be attached to the stem. In another aspect, a piece of exercise equipment is provided that includes a frame, at least one mechanism, movable under variable resistance, and movably mounted relative to the frame, a stem extending from the frame, and any embodiment of a handlebar described above. The handlebar can be attached to the stem.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the invention. For example, words such as “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upward,” “downward,” “inward,” and “outward” merely describe the configurations shown in the figures. Indeed, the components may be oriented in any direction and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise.

The present invention provides methods and apparatus of bicycling (or use of another type of exercise equipment) for the lower body, various hand positioning on multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebars while exercising for the upper body, punching pad training (in conjunction with use of the handlebars) for the upper body, and a combination of the above, to add coordination, balance and agility to an otherwise directed speed, power and endurance work-out.

The present invention includes various embodiments. In at least one embodiment, an exercise device (for example, a bicycle) comprises multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebars, each level, portion, section and/or segment thereof having various shape defining, and different, hand positions for use while exercising. Each level, portion, section and/or segment of the handlebars can be adjustable, then fixed, in height and angle relative to the other levels, portions, sections and/or segments, and relative to a center position of the handlebar (in front of a user).

In another embodiment, the multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebars further include one or more punching pads. The one or more punching pads (preferably two) are each connected to a portion of the handlebar. While fixably connected to a respective portion of the handlebar, each punching pad (or punching pad) can be set in one or more positions (preferably, vertically upward, horizontally, or vertically downward) in relation to the handlebars. In each of the set positions, the respective punching pad/bag would rebound when hit, movably absorbing the blow, but rebounding to the set position. The rebounding function could involve a biased spring (e.g., a multi-dimensional spring).

In one aspect, a handlebar100,200includes three levels (for example, as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2). The first level could be a triangularly shaped handlebar portion102,202, perhaps for sprint portions of a work-out. The second level could be C-channel shaped handlebar portion104,204, and could be at a different height and angle than the first level (all relative to the exercise device, or to a center position of the handlebar (e.g., a transverse extension piece of the handlebar). The third level could be a rectangularly shaped handlebar portion106,206, perhaps with a break107,207in an outer portion thereof to accommodate and provide for adjustment and angling of another portion (or level) of the handlebar therebetween. In another aspect, only one or two of the above levels are provided. Or, alternatively, four, five, or more levels may be provided. Further, as structurally and functionally detailed above, one or more punching pads110,210could optionally be included, as shown.

In a certain aspect, the three levels (or three portions of the handlebar100,200) could be arranged one inside the other, as suggested by the exploded view of each level inFIG. 1. In this aspect, the three levels would be connected to one another (one inside another) along a common axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the exercise device (thereby being across the front of the user) (e.g., a transverse extension piece111,211). In this aspect, each level would have angling capability relative to one another. In another aspect, each level has its own perpendicular bar (or transverse extension piece) across the front of the user, providing that each level could reside (in its entirety) at a different height (relative to the other levels), with separate and independent (or combined) connection to the exercise device. Or, two levels could be connected to one another (one inside another) along a common axis perpendicular to (across the front of) the user, and the third is separately connected to the exercise device at a different height. Or, any combination of the above could be employed. Further, in any connection embodiment, each level would be adjustable relative to the others (either in angle, height, or both, depending on the connection arrangement).

In another aspect, a differently shaped, multi-level, multi-dimensional, and multi-directional handlebar300embodiment is provided (for example, as shown inFIG. 3). In this embodiment, three levels are again provided. This embodiment also includes a centrally positioned, triangularly shaped portion302. Another level, referred to as the first level inFIG. 3, could be arch shaped303. The second level could be rectangularly shaped305, could be at a different height and angle than the first level (all relative to the exercise device, or to a center position of the handlebar (e.g., a transverse extension piece of the handlebar), and could include a break307. The third level could be square shaped309(also at a different angle and/or height). The first303, second305and third309levels could include the break307in an outer portion thereof to accommodate and provide for adjustment and angling of another portion (or level) of the handlebar. In a further aspect, only one or two of the above shaped levels are provided. Or, alternatively, four, five, or more levels may be provided, in any of the shapes described thus far. The various connection arrangements described above, for the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, could also apply to theFIG. 3embodiment. Further, as structurally and functionally detailed above, one or more punching pads310could optionally be included, as shown.

As illustrated in theFIG. 3embodiment, any handlebar embodiment could also include multiple hand position locations, each involving a differently shaped (and located) portion of a level of the handlebar. Each respective location, when a user places their hands thereon, results in a different splay (or different overall body positioning) of the user, resulting in a different core work-out. TheFIG. 3embodiment could display various color-coded (and/or single-digit numbered positions, as shown inFIG. 3), each of which would be called out during an exercise program, and perhaps would be associated with the music directing a particular exercise program.

In other embodiments, the various handlebar100,200,300embodiments detailed above, or any combination thereof, could also include one or more punching pads110,210,310. The one or more punching pads110,210,310(preferably two) are each connected to a portion of the handlebar (as generally shown inFIG. 3). Any known mechanical means is sufficient for such connection.

While fixably connected to a respective portion of the handlebar, each punching pad (or punching bag)110,210,310can be set in one or more positions (preferably, vertically upward, horizontally (facing forward or back), or vertically downward) in relation to the multi-level handlebars100,200,300. Within (as a part of, or associated with) the mechanical connection to the respective handlebar portion, a quick-connect (e.g., a biased ball in socket; a ball joint with pin or friction locking (aka float and lock); or a slide or rocker and pin) can be used to move the punching pad between (and securely set the punching pad in each of) the one or more positions.FIG. 3shows the punching pads310extending horizontally backward.FIG. 5shows the punching pads510extending horizontally forward, nestled amongst the levels of the handlebar (which is normally a position of non-use).FIG. 6shows the punching pads610extending vertically upward (which is normally the position for use). The punching pads can be of any shape, and of a cushioned material appropriate for boxing or martial arts use.

In each of the set positions, the respective punching pad would rebound when hit, movably absorbing a blow, but rebounding to the set position (in one or all of the set positions). The rebounding function could involve a biased spring, providing spring back to the set position up strike. The punching pads would provide a boxing, or martial arts type work-out for the upper body, while the lower body is otherwise exercising via use of the exercise device. Programmed punches, or strikes (whether a jab, cross and/or hook) are a part of a work-out regimen, where a user interchanges between striking the punching pads and grasping various hand positions on the multi-level handlebar.

FIGS. 4, 5 and 6illustrate a various handlebar100,200,300,700embodiment of the present invention on an exercise device490,590,690(e.g., a bicycle). Each piece of exercise equipment490,590,690includes a frame491,591,691; at least one mechanism492,592,692movable under fixed or variable resistance, and movably mounted relative to the frame (e.g., at least a pedal and/or wheel, if a bicycle); a stem493,593,693extending from the frame; and the respective handlebar100,200,300,700embodiment attached to the stem493,593,693.

FIG. 7illustrates yet another multi-level, multi-dimensional and multi-directional handlebar700embodiment of the present invention. The features and functionality described as included in theFIG. 7embodiment are equally applicable to the prior handlebar100,200,300embodiments, where various permutations of features, functionality and uses of all of the handlebar embodiments100,200,300,700are interchangeable.

In theFIG. 7embodiment, the handlebar700includes a transverse extension piece711adapted to be connected to a stem of an exercise device at a midpoint of the transverse extension piece711. The transverse extension piece711has a longitudinal axis LA and a transverse axis TA symmetrically bisecting the transverse extension piece711through the midpoint. The transverse axis TA is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA.

The handlebar700can include a first handlebar portion730having left730L and right730R sections, where each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730have a proximal segment731attached to the transverse extension piece711on respective opposite ends of the transverse extension piece711that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece711, generally in a direction of the transverse axis TA. A break707can exist between the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730. Each of the left730L and the right731R sections of the first handlebar portion730can have an internal segment732attached to a forward end of the proximal segment731that extends at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece711. Each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can also have a distal segment733attached to a forward end of the internal segment732that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis TA.

The handlebar700can also include a second handlebar portion740having left740L and right740R sections, where each of the left740L and the right740R sections of the second handlebar portion740have a proximal segment741attached to the transverse extension piece711inwardly of the respective opposite ends of the transverse extension piece711that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece711, generally in a direction of the transverse axis TA. Each of the left740L and the right740R sections of the second handlebar portion470can have a distal segment743attached to a forward end of the proximal segment741that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis TA.

The handlebar700can also include a third handlebar portion750having left750L and right750R sections, where each of the left750L and the right750R sections of the third handlebar portion750have a proximal segment751attached to the transverse extension piece711inwardly of a point of attachment of each of the left740L and the right740R sections of the second handlebar portion740with the transverse extension piece711(and inwardly of the opposite ends of the transverse extension piece) that extend at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece711, generally in a direction of the transverse axis TA. Further, each of the left750L and the right750R sections of the third handlebar portion750can have an internal segment752attached to a forward end of the proximal segment751that extends at least forwardly relative to the transverse extension piece711. Each of the left750L and the right750R sections of the third handlebar portion750can have a distal segment753attached to a forward end of the internal segment752that extends at least inwardly toward the transverse axis TA.

In one aspect, the distal segment733of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can be positioned above the distal segment743of each of the left740L and the right740R sections of the second handlebar portion740, which can be positioned above the distal segment753of each of the left750L and the right750R sections of the third handlebar portion750, all relative to a position of the transverse extension piece711. In another aspect, the internal segment732of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730also extend inwardly toward the transverse axis TA.

In a further aspect, the proximal segment732of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend parallel to the transverse axis TA. The internal segment732of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend 45 degrees inwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the respective proximal segment731, and the distal segment733of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend parallel to the transverse extension piece711.

In still another aspect, the proximal segment731of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend 10-12 degrees upwardly relative to the transverse axis TA. The internal segment732of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend 45 degrees inwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the respective proximal segment731, and the distal segment733of each of the left730L and the right730R sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend parallel to the transverse extension piece711.

The handlebar700can further include a triangular shaped handlebar portion702attached to the transverse extension piece711, centrally located thereon, symmetrical about the transverse axis TA thereof. In one aspect, the attachment of the triangular shaped handlebar portion702to the transverse extension piece711is configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis LA of the transverse extension piece711. After adjustment, the triangular shaped handlebar portion702can then be fixedly secured, providing a user selected angle of the triangular shaped handlebar portion702relative to the transverse axis TA.

The handlebar700can further include at least one punching pad (or punching bag)710attached to the transverse extension piece711. The attachment of the at least one punching pad710to the transverse extension piece711can provide rebounding capability (i.e., be configured to allow the punching pad710to rebound upon being hit by a user). In one aspect, the attachment of the at least one punching pad710to the transverse extension piece711is configured to provide multiple fixed positions for the at least one punching pad710, each position configured to allow the punching pad710to rebound upon being hit by a user.

In another aspect of the handlebar700, the attachment of at least the proximal segments741,751of each of the left and the right sections of the second740and the third750handlebar portions to the transverse extension piece711are configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis LA of the transverse extension piece711, then fixed securement, providing a user selected angle of the respective proximal segment741,751relative to the transverse axis TA. This aspect could further include that the attachment of the proximal segment731of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion730to the transverse extension piece711is also configured to provide rotatable adjustment about the longitudinal axis LA of the transverse extension piece711, then fixed securement, providing a user selected angle of the respective proximal segment731relative to the transverse axis TA.

In still another aspect of the handlebar700, the attachment of the distal segments733,753of each of the left and the right sections of the first730and the third750handlebar portions to the internal segments732,752of each of the left and the right sections of the first730and the third750handlebar portions are configured to provide longitudinal and radial adjustment therebetween, then fixed securement, providing a user selected multi-dimensional angle of the respective distal segment733,753relative to the respective internal segment732,752. This longitudinal and radial adjustment could be accomplished by a ball joint with pin or friction locking (aka float and lock), located at pivot points725. In this aspect, the internal segment732of each of the left and the right sections of the first handlebar portion730can extend 45 degrees relative to the transverse extension piece711.

Still further, or in the alternative, the attachment of the distal segments743of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion740to the proximal segments741of each of the left and the right sections of the second handlebar portion740can also be configured to provide longitudinal and radial adjustment therebetween, then fixed securement, providing a user selected multi-dimensional angle of the respective distal segment relative to the respective proximal segment. This functionality can also be applied to the attachment of the internal segments732,752of each of the left and the right sections of the first730and the third750handlebar portions to the proximal segments731,751of each of the left and the right sections of the first730and the third750handlebar portions, where each pivot point725is configured to provide longitudinal and radial adjustment therebetween, then fixed securement, providing a user selected multi-dimensional angle of the respective internal segment732,752relative to the respective proximal segment731,751.

The present invention also involves exercise methods, and can be used in conjunction with personal training classes and certification training. The methods can involve rhythm and tempo, and can implement certain body positioning (e.g., the hand positioning detailed above on the various handlebar embodiments).

The exercise methods can bring musical sound and mathematics (e.g., all the elements of music, such as the form, rhythm, pitches, notes and tempo) to use as a motivation for learning new movements. For example, through a combination of numbers, a user can practice on specially designed handlebars of the present invention, the handlebars being used on any type of exercise device (e.g., a stationary bicycle, elliptical machine, or other lower body exercise equipment). These exercise methods use both sides of the brain, where a user learns while feeling the music; and, by it, can achieve the unachievable via fitness and sports as stimulation for the brain, body and spirit. The present invention involves mind and body development via guidance, in certain embodiments, through upper body movements, sequences and combinations of punches, each that challenge memory and recall. The exercise methods test balance coordination, stamina and endurance. As noted, various exercise devices are contemplated; for example, an elliptical machine, indoor cycling bike, or cardiovascular fitness machine in general. Patterns of numbers, in different sequences and color combinations, are provided by the instructor or coach, and are used in conjunction with different types of upper body movements, such as low impact push-ups with high repetition.

Benefits of the devices and methods of the present invention are:Increased strength in the upper body and lower body areas.Coordination improvement.Posture improvement.Breathing improvement.Strengthening of the abdominal muscles.Improvement of Self-EsteemOverall improvement of healthDecrease the levels of body fatIncrease the level of cardiovascular performanceIncrease overall muscular development, strength, and resistanceImproves flexibility and balanceLower the levels of stressIncreased creativity & problem-solving skillsThe ability to think fasterIncreased recall, focus and concentrationIncreased ability to multi-taskThe ability to remain calm and focused during high-stress situationsIncreased self-confidenceUsing both sides of the brainSlowing down the age processExemplary exercise methodologies of the present invention are:POWER-CYCLE: Developing and increasing one's cardio, endurance, stamina, and coordination, while testing cognitive function, focus and memory;POWER CYCLE-BOXING: Developing and increasing one's cardio, endurance, stamina and coordination, while using both sides of the brain, and while testing cognitive function, focus and memory; andBOXING METHODOLOGIES: a unique combat methodology based on high spiritual level consecutively increasing one's body strength, power, focus, concentration, memory and overall performance, all directed to combat sport.