Abstract:
A travel-size exercise device used in pairs to induce muscle-building effect on both upper and lower body comprising an elongated length-reducible rigid member ( 100 ) attached to an elongated flexible foot traction member ( 106 ). A set of holding provisions comprise a primary handle ( 44 ) forming a T-connection due-top on rigid member ( 100 ), and an auxiliary handle ( 54 ) forming a perpendicular protrusion midwards on member ( 100 ). A set of limb-fastening provisions comprise an ankle strap ( 110 ) mounted at right angles upwards on rigid member ( 100 ), and a corresponding knee support ( 112 ) layered upon auxiliary handle ( 54 ). Rigid member.( 110 ) has a bottom end engaged to a revolving shoe ( 62 ) removably capped with a friction-tip ( 64 ) for stable ground engagement. A traction member ( 106 ) has one end comprising a spring clasp ( 72 ) attached to shoe ( 62 ) of rigid member ( 100 ), and an intermediate section comprising a foot strap ( 76 ) followed by an array of bumps ( 78 ) equidistantly spaced thereafter towards the other end. An operator selectably interfaces with the device, so that enough ground reaction force is transferred through a pair of rigid members ( 100 ) to oppose body-weight displacement induced by repetitive motion of the operator&#39;s arms or legs.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     Not applicable 
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable 
     REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX Not applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to weight resistance exercise devices, specifically to those devices that provide full body training, as well as those that are portable and compact enough to be suitable for travel. 
     2. Description of Prior Art 
     The observable effect of muscular performance is motion, and evidently it constitutes the key element of exercise. Hence, any ability to sustain motion to the effect of displacing either external objects, or ones&#39; own body, would indicate the level of a person&#39;s fitness. 
     Athletes of every kind have begun to realize the importance, effectiveness, and benefits of resistance training, specifically weightlifting, towards improving their performance. The popularity of weightlifting is reasonably expected due to the fact that it feels more natural, compared to other forms of resistance training, such as those involving elastic mediums. An explanation of such preference may be as simple as the fact that, human nature has evolved throughout the millennia developing muscles to the effect of moving, lifting, pushing, and manipulating objects against gravity. 
     A variety of exercise devices has emerged over the years, to facilitate an ever-growing number of health and performance conscious people. Simple devices, such as a barbell or a dumbbell, and machines that isolate specific muscles at a time, have become the staple tools of a weight training facility. 
     However, these facilities require numerous equipment that take space, amount to a lot of weight, and they represent a good deal of monetary investment. The serious athlete faces the limitation of having to pay tuition to such facilities in order to achieve a comprehensive workout. Furthermore, the athlete needs to make frequent visits for a regular workout routine, which is most probably on a daily basis. 
     An attempt to relieve the inconvenience of commuting to a health club so frequently is evident by several weight-training equipment that have been developed for home use. This type of equipment is designed to combine the functions of several muscle-isolation machines into a compact unit. However, home training centers are still costly, have a significant weight and their transportation would require special effort along with assembly and disassembly of several parts. 
     A number of handheld devices have become available over the years, attempting to remedy the issue of portability. These devices depart from the use of gravity and they explore other forms of resistance such as elastic, viscous or frictional media. However, non-gravity media does not feel natural to the human body. Therefore, such equipment are suited for low intensity workout routines, which are intended for muscle toning instead of muscle building effect. Furthermore, by virtue of simplicity, there is compromise in function. These devices are often limited, specializing to only certain muscle groups, while failing to provide training for other parts of the body. There is no bodybuilder, to the knowledge of this author, who has developed a competition level physique purely by stretching a rubber band type exerciser or compressing a spring loaded apparatus. 
     An intermediate solution that combines portability without departing from the gravity type notion of resistance has been explored as well. Devices of this type are using a person&#39;s own body weight as a resistance medium. However, such equipment retain a plurality of moving parts and linkages due to their geometry, and although portable are not suited to carry-on. 
     For example, U.S. Pat. No. 06,024,677 offers enough functionality to exercise both upper and lower body muscles. However, there is a plurality of moving components, a fairly involved construction and an overall size that make this device not suitable for traveling standards. U.S. Pat. No. 06,086,521 offers a more simplistic design, but it is not versatile enough to offer a comprehensive full body workout for a dedicated athlete. Furthermore, this design is still not compact enough to be considered a handheld device that fits within a travel bag. 
     Generally, when it comes to exercise equipment, the level of portability is inversely proportional to the level of effective weight training potential. Extremely portable devices have limited potential, while those that have extensive weight training potential are not portable. There are also variations in-between the two extremes, but the mere fact of having to compromise makes them fall into the mediocre range. 
     In summary, there is a number of disadvantages which can be distinguished in the existing exercise devices towards weight resistance training. 
     a) The simplest, lightest forms of existing portable devices are not versatile enough to be of practical use for muscle building, full body training. 
     b) Conversely, the more effective devices are not simple or portable enough to be considered for frequent relocation, or simply, traveling convenience. 
     c) Therefore, existing devices pose limitations so that the option of comprehensive weight-resistance training cannot be offered in a practical way to people who are always on the road. 
     d) A number of existing devices require the presence of a wall, or a doorframe, or other type of external morphology, in order to function properly. An example of such a device is U.S. Pat. No. 05,944,640. 
     e) Many exercise devices offer a type of resistance, which is other than gravity or its derivatives. These devices may appeal to some people, but would not feel as intuitive to many who would prefer a weight-resistance type of training. 
     f) Existing portable exercise equipment cannot accurately replicate the free-weight experience. Free-weights help develop physical intuition by forcing the individual to maintain proper form during exercise. This is accomplished by consciously making adjustments aiming the free-weight to the proper motion path. For example, lifting a barbell in a bench press requires special concentration to keep it straight and prevent it from veering to the sides. 
     g) All exercise devices, brought to the attention of this author, require manual adjustment of the resistance level. In other words, the operator needs to stop and make adjustments on the device to effect the difficulty of the intended exercise. 
     SUMMARY 
     The proposed device is an exerciser consisting of a pair of poles with a traction line attached at the lower end of each pole. 
     The exerciser can be used towards the effect of weight-resistance training, utilizing gravity in a similar way to that of a common push-ups exercise. The operator induces fatigue on a selected muscle by interfacing with the exerciser, in such a way, that any movement of the targeted muscle displaces the operator&#39;s own bodyweight. 
     The body of each pole features two cushioned handles, one at the top and another one slightly above the middle point. A strap equipped with end buckles is mounted below the top handle of each pole. The function of each strap is to secure the ankles of the operator during a leg curl exercise. 
     The traction lines provide sufficient foot support during normal use. Each line is a rope folded in half with three equidistant bumps located at the free end. Each bump is a double-rope knot causing the line to form loops in-between such knots. At the middle of each traction line, a strap is attached to form a loop used primarily in a leg extension exercise. 
     Each pole is designed to separate in half and each line can be folded, thus reducing the overall size of the device, to fit into a bag with similar dimensions to that of a tennis racket. Furthermore, the choice of materials for this exerciser should be so lightweight (but strong) so that the device is considered practically weightless. 
     OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES 
     A person&#39;s own weight can be a formidable force of resistance, as for example, in a gymnastic “Maltese” or “Iron cross” stunt on the Still-rings at the Olympic games. Therefore, the proposed device is introduced on the following intentions. 
     a) To provide a single device versatile enough to offer weight resistance exercises for both upper and lower body muscles. 
     b) To provide a weight-resistance-training device, which is lightweight and compact enough, that someone would be able to simply pick up, as if it was a tennis racket or a base-ball bat, and go outdoors to workout. 
     c) To offer a weight training option to people whose profession, or circumstances, force them to be away from home most of the time. As for example, a sea merchant, a truck driver, a soldier, an archeologist doing studies in the field, a business traveler, a camper, people on vacation, and people who do not feel they have to perform their daily workout routine at the same location. 
     d) To provide an exercise device which is self-standing without needing to be mounted anywhere or require a specific environmental support such as a wall, a doorframe, a step, or a corner, in order to function properly. 
     e) To preserve the notion of weight-resistance, which feels more natural, inviting, and intuitive, compared to devices that make use of elastic or other alternative mediums. 
     f) To offer an exercise device that helps improve muscular awareness, concentration, and control. Specifically, the user will be compelled to mentally concentrate and consciously perform minor adjustments of posture in a way to isolate the muscle intended to be trained at that time. This is a way to develop awareness of ones own body, the location of particular muscles and their intended function. 
     g) To provide a simple exercise device whose resistance can be dynamically varied during exercise. This can be accomplished by minor adjustments of posture, shifting the operator&#39;s center of gravity in order to impose a larger (or smaller component of his/her bodyweight against the working muscles. 
     There is one more factor, worthy of consideration, which is namely the social motivation element. Many people choose to workout in designated facilities, because it is much harder to maintain discipline in a private environment. Somehow the social and emotional part of a workout experience is often more important than the physical equipment alone. For that purpose, the proposed exercise device is not limited to be used in isolation, but on the contrary, it can be an enhancement to the existing arsenal of equipment for a commercial weightlifting facility. In this context, the proposed exercise device can offer an intensity of workout, which is at a par with existing commercial machines. Furthermore, it offers the option of approaching muscles from unique angles combined with freedom of motion that requires minor muscles for balancing and control. This is a beneficial feature since most dedicated bodybuilders already prefer to use a variety of equipment. The intention is to ‘hit’ a body-part from as many angles of motion as possible, attempting to reach and develop minor muscles that cannot be easily trained otherwise. 
     DRAWING FIGURES 
     Overview 
     All drawing figures are numbered from  1  through  31 B. Individual parts receive numbers from  40  through  99 , while assemblies of several parts are assigned three digit numbers from  100  through  112 . 
     REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS 
     
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 40A 
                 padding 
                 40B 
                 pad-retainer plate 
               
               
                 40C 
                 hole 
                 42 
                 screw 
               
               
                 44 
                 primary handle 
                 44A 
                 primary handle 
               
               
                 46A 
                 female buckle 
                 46B 
                 webbing 
               
               
                 46C 
                 intermediate buckle 
                 46D 
                 male buckle 
               
               
                 48 
                 strap-retainer 
                 50 
                 screw-adjustable clamp 
               
               
                 52 
                 main beam 
                 54 
                 auxiliary handle 
               
               
                 54A 
                 auxiliary handle 
                 54B 
                 flat surface 
               
               
                 54C 
                 end face 
                 56A 
                 padding 
               
               
                 56B 
                 pad-retainer plate 
                 56C 
                 hole 
               
               
                 57 
                 threaded opening 
                 58 
                 washer 
               
               
                 60A 
                 threaded end 
                 60 
                 extension beam 
               
               
                 60B 
                 toe 
                 60C 
                 threaded opening 
               
               
                 62 
                 revolving shoe 
                 62B 
                 eyelet 
               
               
                 62C 
                 trapezoidal lip 
                 64 
                 friction-tip 
               
               
                 66 
                 bolt 
                 68 
                 sleeve 
               
               
                 70 
                 washer 
                 72 
                 spring-clasp 
               
               
                 74 
                 rope-clamps 
                 76 
                 foot-strap 
               
               
                 78 
                 bump 
                 79 
                 loop 
               
               
                 80 
                 rope 
                 80A 
                 folding end 
               
               
                 80B 
                 free end 
                 81 
                 operator 
               
               
                 82 
                 lock mechanism 
                 84 
                 telescoping tube 
               
               
                 86 
                 primary handie 
                 88 
                 convenience opening 
               
               
                 90 
                 knee surface 
                 92 
                 pin linkage 
               
               
                 93 
                 retractable belt 
                 94 
                 bump 
               
               
                 96 
                 foot-strap 
                 98 
                 retractable belt cartridge 
               
               
                 99 
                 pivoting belt slot 
                 99A 
                 pivoting belt slot 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     Assemblies 
     The term ‘assembly’ is used to imply a collection of parts. The term ‘subassembly’ is used to imply a collection of parts that are a pure subset of a larger collection. Assemblies and subassemblies are indicated in the drawings with the use of arrowheads accompanied with a reference numeral. 
       100  rigid-member assembly (parts  40  through  70 ) 
       102  trunk subassembly (parts  40  through  56 ) 
       104  leg subassembly (parts  58  through  70 ) 
       106  traction-member assembly (parts  72  through  80   
       108  primary-cushion subassembly (parts  40 A and  40 B) 
       110  ankle-strap subassembly (parts  46 A,  46 B,  46 C,  46 D) 
       112  knee-support subassembly (parts  56 A and  56 B) 
     LIST OF FIGURES 
     Figures Intended to Show an Overview of the Invention 
     FIG. 1 shows the exerciser in its complete assembled form 
     FIG. 2 presents a rear view snapshot with the rigid-member separated from the traction-member of the exerciser 
     FIG. 3 illustrates the two major components of the rigid-member detached from each other 
     FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view, as indicated by section lines  4 — 4  of FIG. 3 
     FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a fully assembled revolving shoe, as indicated by section lines  5 — 5  of FIG. 3 
     Figures Intended to Show Detail 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded view for the trunk, or upper section of the rigid-member 
     FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view illustrating the composition of the primary-cushion as indicated by section lines  7 — 7  of FIG. 6 
     FIG. 8 is a second cross section of the primary-cushion as indicated by section lines  8 - 8  of FIG. 7 
     FIG. 9 is cross sectional view illustrating the composition of the knee-support as indicated by section lines  9 — 9  of FIG. 6 
     FIG. 10 is a second cross section of the knee-support as indicated by section lines  10  of FIG. 9 
     FIG. 11 illustrates how the lower end of leg subassembly can rotate freely 
     FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the leg, or lower section of the rigid member 
     FIG. 13 illustrates a single length of rope folded in half intended to form the basic ingredient of the traction member 
     FIG. 14 is an exploded view showing the assembly components of the traction-member 
     FIG. 15 is a magnified view of a double-rope knot 
     FIG. 16 is a magnified view of a rope clamp 
     FIG. 17 is a magnified view of a connecting clasp 
     Figures Illustrating Alternative Embodiments 
     FIG. 18A is a telescoping tube design fully reduced to its minimum length 
     FIG. 18B is a telescoping tube design in its fully extended state 
     FIG. 19A a folding design shown in its semi-folded position, exhibiting multiple auxiliary handles (or convenience openings and a retractable belt. 
     FIG. 19B shows a folding design with its two members fully unfolded 
     FIG. 19C the same folding design but with its retractable belt extended in such a way so that its foot-strap bends around the top of the exerciser 
     FIG. 19D the folding design with an alternative retractable belt arrangement, engaged at two points 
     FIG. 19E the same arrangement as in FIG. 19D, but the retractable belt is extended to form a larger loop. 
     Figures Illustrating the Operation of the Invention 
     Each figure from FIG. 20 to FIG. 31 has an attached letter suffix A or B indicating, respectively, the initial and final stages of the same exercise. 
     FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate the use of the device to exercise the arm biceps muscles 
     FIGS. 21A and 21B present a second variation for the arm biceps muscles 
     FIGS. 22A and 22B present an exercise for the forearm muscles 
     FIGS. 23A and 23B present an exercise for the arm triceps muscles 
     FIGS. 24A and 24B present a second variation for arm triceps muscles 
     FIGS. 25A and 25B present an exercise for the rear deltoids and the trapezius muscles 
     FIGS. 26A and 26B present an exercise for the trapezius muscles 
     FIGS. 27A and 27B present an exercise for the muscles of the upper back, namely the Latissimus dorsi 
     FIGS. 28A and 28B present an exercise for the back, namely the outer portion of the latissimus dorsi muscles 
     FIGS. 29A and 29B present an exercise for the pectoral muscles 
     FIGS. 30A and 30B present an exercise for the leg biceps muscle 
     FIGS. 31A and 31B present an exercise for the leg quadriceps muscles 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Overview (FIGS.  1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) 
     A fully assembled preferred embodiment of the proposed exerciser is shown in FIG. 1. A matching pair (not shown), which is a mirror image of that in FIG. 1, would complete the set or pair to achieve the intended functionality. In the following text, the term exerciser refers to what is shown in FIG.  1 . The components are then duplicated to produce a mirror-replica. 
     The first component is namely a pole, or rigid-member assembly  100  with an overall length of about 130 cm. Rigid member  100  consists of a primary cushion subassembly  108 , an ankle strap subassembly  110 , a knee-support subassembly  112  and parts  44  through  70 . Parts  66 ,  68  and  70  are internally located and therefore not visible in FIG.  1 . 
     The second component is a foot restraining tether or namely a traction-member assembly  106  consisting of parts  72  through  80 . The overall length of traction-member  106  is about 193 cm long or 1.5 times the length of rigid-member  100 . 
     Rigid member  100  and traction member  106  are detachable from each other and this feature is illustrated in FIG. 2 from a rear-view perspective; relative to that of FIG.  1 . 
     Rigid member  100  is designed to separate further in two pieces; as shown in FIG.  3 . Such pieces are namely a trunk subassembly  102 , and a leg subassembly  104 . 
     Trunk  102  consists of primary cushion subassembly  108 , ankle strap subassembly  110 , knee-support subassembly  112 , and parts  44  through  54 . Cross sectional plane  4 — 4  at the lower end of trunk  102  reveals a threaded opening  57  (FIG.  4 ). Such threaded opening  57  is meant to couple with a threaded end  59  (FIG. 3) of leg  104 . Trunk  102  has an overall length of about 65 cm, which is approximately one half the overall length of rigid member  100 . 
     Leg  104  consists of parts  58  through  70 . Cross sectional plane  5 — 5  at the lower end of leg  104  reveals a bolt  66  (FIG.  5 ), a sleeve  68  and a washer  70 , which are the non-visible parts of leg  104 . Leg  104  has an overall length of about  65 cm, which is approximately one-half the overall length of rigid member  100 . 
     Detail—Trunk Subassembly (FIGS.  3 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ) 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded view of trunk subassembly  102 , displaying all the necessary parts for its assembly and their intended position. A completely assembled trunk  102  is illustrated in FIG.  3 . 
     A main beam  52  (FIG. 6) is a solid, cylindrical part approximately 58 cm long and 4.4 cm in diameter. Beam  52  is composed of a suitable strong, lightweight polymer or metal such as polypropylene or aluminum, respectively. The bottom end of beam  52  has a threaded opening  57 . 
     A solid, cylindrical shaped, primary handle  44  (FIG. 6) forms a welded ‘T’ connection at the top end of beam  52 . Handle  44  is about 5 cm in diameter, 19 cm long and is composed of a suitable hard polymer or metal, similar to that of beam  52 . A hole  44 A is found from the top, near each end of handle  44 . 
     An auxiliary handle  54  (FIG. 6) is located near the lower end of beam  52 , a distance of about 46 cm measured from the bottom of handle  44 . Handle  54  protrudes approximately 12 cm perpendicular from beam  52  and is composed of a suitable hard polymer similar to that of primary handle  44 . An end face  54 C has an outline resembling a closed ‘U’ with a curvature diameter of about 5 cm. Thus, an imaginary straight extrusion of face  54 C justifies a rectangular flat surface  54 B on the front side of handle  54 . Surface  54 B is about 5 cm wide and 15 cm long. A hole  54 A is drilled near each end of surface  54 B. The opposite end of face  54 C is suitably shaped to match the contour of beam  52 . Handle  54  is permanently attached on beam  52 . 
     An ankle-strap subassembly  110  comprises a 5 cm wide webbing  468 , a female buckle  46 A, a male buckle  46 D and an intermediate buckle  46 C. Ankle strap  46  can be adjusted lengthwise starting from a minimum length of about 40 cm. Ankle-strap  110  (FIG. 6) is a shorter version of a common work belt found in hardware stores. 
     A strap-retainer  48  (FIG. 6) is a straight extrusion of a narrow, curved cross section, to a length of about 9 cm. Strap-retainer  48  is intended to secure ankle-strap  110  on beam  52 . 
     The intended position of ankle strap  110  is at the upper end of beam  52  and below handle  44 . Ankle-strap  110  is oriented with its long axis on the horizontal and it is positioned so that beam  52  is touching webbing  46 B as close to buckle  46 A as possible. Strap-retainer  48 , is oriented with its long axis on the vertical and it is pressed firmly against webbing  46 B. The length of retainer  48  exceeds the width of webbing  46 B by 2 cm at each end. A pair of common “screw-adjustable metal clamps”  50  tighten each end of strap-retainer  48  on beam  52 . 
     A primary-cushion subassembly  108  (FIG. 6) has an overall length of 18 cm and is meant to be placed on top of primary handle  44 . FIG. 7 presents a cross sectional view of cushion  108 , as indicated by section lines  7 — 7  (FIG.  6 ). Cushion  108  consists of a plate  40 B (FIG. 7) and a layer of padding  40 A. Plate  408  is curved to fit the cylindrical contour of primary handle  44  and it is made of a suitable hard plastic material such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene and the sort. Padding  40 A is made of suitable elastomer, such as polyurethane, and it is shorter in length than plate  40 B, just enough to expose a hole  40 C at each end. Padding  40 A is permanently bonded to the upper surface of plate  40 B. FIG. 8 offers a second cross section of cushion  108  to illustrate how padding  40 A is layered on top of plate  40 B. Primary-cushion  108  (FIG. 6) is secured on top of handle  44  by means of screws  42 A that fit through holes  40 C (FIG. 7) and are engaged to holes  44 A (FIG. 6) of handle  44 . 
     Similarly, a knee-support subassembly  112  (FIG. 6) is placed on the flat surface  54 B of auxiliary handle  54 . FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of knee-support  112 , as indicated by section lines  9 — 9  (FIG.  6 ). Knee-support  11   2  consists of a flat plate  56 B (FIG.  9 ), intended to fit on flat surface  54 E (FIG. 6) of auxiliary handle  54  and it is made of a suitable hard plastic material. A thick layer of padding  56 A (FIG. 9) is made of a suitable elastomer, or soft rubber material, such as polyurethane. Padding  56 A (FIG. 9) is shorter in length than plate  56 B, just enough to expose a hole  56 C at each end. Padding  56 A is bonded to the top surface of plate  55 B. FIG. 10 offers a second cross section of knee support  112  to illustrate how padding  56 A is layered on top of plate  56 B. Knee-support  112  (FIG. 6) is secured on auxiliary handle  54  by means of screws  42 B that fit through holes  56 C (FIG.  9  and are engaged to holes  54 A (FIG. 6) of auxiliary handle  54 . 
     Detail—Leg Subassembly (FIGS.  3 , 5 , 11 , 12 ) 
     FIG. 12 is an exploded view showing the construction of leg subassembly  104 . A completely assembled leg  104  is shown in FIG.  3  and FIG.  11 . 
     An extension beam  60  (FIG. 12) is a solid cylindrical part about 4.4 cm in diameter and 63 cm long. Beam  60  is composed of a suitable, hard, lightweight, polymer or metal such as polypropylene or aluminum. The top end of beam  60  exhibits a threaded end  60 A, which is of a slightly lesser diameter than the mid-section of beam  60 . The bottom end of beam  60  (FIG. 12) forms a toe  60 B of about 3.2 cm diameter and 8 cm long. At the bottom end of toe  60 B there is an axial threaded opening  60 C. 
     A revolving shoe  62  (FIG. 12) is a tubular piece about 11 cm long. Shoe  62  is composed of a suitable strong, lightweight metal or alloy. A trapezoidal lip  62 C is bonded vertically, from its large edge, to shoe  62  and it contains an eyelet  62 B. Shoe  62  has an inner diameter marginally larger than the outer diameter of toe  60 B. A uniform round internal protrusion  62 A is located; approximately 8 cm deep, near the lower end of shoe  62 . Protrusion  62 A is about 1 cm thick and it is intended to reduce the diameter of shoe  62 . Shoe  62  is intended to fit over toe  60 B with enough clearance to permit free rotation. 
     A sleeve  68  (FIG. 12) is a tubular piece with an outer diameter marginally smaller than that of protrusion  62 A and a length marginally larger than the thickness of protrusion  62 A. Sleeve  68  is intended to fit through protrusion  62 A with enough clearance to allow free rotation of shoe  62 . Sleeve  68  has an inner diameter similar, or slightly larger, to that of opening  60 C. The upper end of sleeve  68  is intended to fit around the lip of opening  60 C at the lower end of toe  60 B. 
     A washer  70  (FIG. 12) has an inner diameter that coincides with the inner diameter of sleeve  68  and an outer diameter marginally smaller than the inner diameter of shoe  62 . Washer  70  is placed at the bottom of sleeve  68 , which stands in-between washer  70  and opening  60 C. 
     A bolt  66  (FIG. 12) fits through washer  70  and sleeve  68 , and engages the internal threads of opening  60 C. Protrusion  62 A is enclosed between washer  70  and the bottom of toe  60 B. Thus, shoe  62  is prevented from falling when beam  60  is off the ground. 
     A friction-tip  64  (FIG.  12 ), similar to those commonly found on a cane or a crutch, is intended to cover the bottom end of shoe  62 . Friction-tip  64  enables rigid-member  100  adhere to the ground during normal use of the exerciser. 
     As an overview, a completely assembled shoe  62  is shown, cross-sectioned, in FIG. 5 as defined by section lines  5 — 5  of FIG.  3 . Furthermore, the ability of the assembled shoe  62  to rotate freely on the bottom end of leg  104  is illustrated in FIG.  11 . 
     Detail—Traction-member Subassembly (FIGS.  2 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 ) A completely assembled traction-member  106  is shown from a rear view perspective in FIG.  2 . An exploded view of traction-member  106  and all the necessary components for its construction is shown in FIG.  14 . 
     The construction of traction member  106  begins with a common inelastic polyester rope  80  of about 1.2 cm diameter folded in half as shown in FIG.  13 . Rope  80  forms a fold  80 A at one end and a set of free ends  80 B at the other end. 
     A set of bumps  78  (FIG. 14) is spaced at approximately 27.5 cm intervals along rope  80  so that the last of bumps  78  joins the free ends  80 B of rope  80 . Bumps  78  are actually double-rope knots tied on rope  80  as shown in the magnified view provided in FIG.  15 . The portions of rope  80  before each bump  78  form loops  79 . The resulting length of rope  80 , after construction of bumps  78 , is about 193 cm. 
     A foot-strap  76  (FIG. 14) is a piece of webbing about 5 cm wide and 51 cm long tapered at each end. Strap  76  is folded at one-third of its length and placed near the mid-section of rope  80 . 
     A set of rope-clamps  74  spaced at regular intervals of about 27.5 cm, continues the series of bumps  78  towards folded end  80 A. FIG. 16 presents a magnified view of a rope-clamp  74 , which is similar to those commonly found in a hardware store. Rope clamps  74  are meant to keep together the two half-portions of folded rope  80 . Two of clamps  74  have an additional function of securing webbing  76  (FIG. 14) on rope  80 . A bonding material such as an epoxy type glue may be required to prevent accidental detachment of webbing  76  from its intended location on rope  80 . 
     A spring-clasp  72  (FIG.  14 ), such as those commonly found in a hardware store, is placed on the folded end  80 A of rope  80 . Clasp  72  is intended to connect traction-member  106  to shoe  62 , which serves as a branch adaptor (where elongated traction member  106  is the branch), at the bottom of rigid-member  100  as shown in FIG.  2 . 
     The distance between the tip of spring-clasp  72  (FIG. 14) and the folded end of foot-strap  76  is about 118 cm. This distance is intended to be roughly equivalent to the overall length of rigid member  100 . 
     Alternative Embodiments (FIGS.  18 A, 18 B, 18 C, 19 A, 19 B, 19 C, 19 D, 19 E) 
     The preferred embodiment, as described above, is complete enough to facilitate its intended function in a most cost effective, simplistic, and utilitarian manner. However, there is an unpredictable pool of variations that can be applied in nearly every aspect of the preferred embodiment. Such variations will most probably originate from a need of refinement, practicality, functionality, serviceability, manufacturing convenience, cost, durability, and so on. 
     FIGS.  18 A, 18 B, 18 C illustrate an alternative version of the proposed exerciser, featuring triple telescoping tubes  84  (FIG.  18 C). The advantage of this design is its ability to readily reduce in size without separating in two components, as opposed to the preferred embodiment. Suitable locking mechanisms  82  (FIG. 18C) enable the tubes  84  to lock at any position, facilitating a wide range of height adjustment. Such adjustment would provide an additional method of controlling the difficulty of some exercises as well as accommodate individuals that are taller or shorter than average. In FIG. 18A the exerciser is fully reduced to roughly one-third its total length, while in FIG. 18C it is fully extended. 
     A primary handle  44 A, an ankle-strap  110 , and a knee-support  112 , are parts closely equivalent to those described for the preferred embodiment. An auxiliary handle  54 A is modified from the preferred embodiment to be adjustable on the body of the alternative exerciser as shown in FIG.  18 B. 
     The device of FIGS.  19 A, 19 B, 19 C is a good example of a seemingly drastic mutation. FIGS. 19A and 19B present a folding-type exerciser in a semi-folded and a fully extended position respectively. The body of the exerciser is no longer cylindrical as in FIGS. 18A,  18 B,  18 C, but instead it is wide and flat (or curved). A wide surface  90  (FIG. 19B) is deliberately allocated between openings  88 . Surface  90  is intended so that a person can comfortably rest their entire weight on his/her knees without distress. 
     A pivoting linkage  92  (FIG. 19B) provides the necessary folding functionality. There is also provision for a suitable locking mechanism (not shown) near linkage  92 . Such mechanism prevents the device from folding accidentally during normal use. 
     A cylindrical handle  86  (FIG. 19B) is the equivalent of primary handle  44 A (FIG.  18 A). Numerous auxiliary handles  88  (FIG. 19B) eliminate the need of handle adjustment all together. Auxiliary handles  88  in FIG. 19B are, in fact, convenient openings, holes or windows on the body of the device. A bottom ledge  88 A on each of those openings serves as a handle, during normal use. 
     A retractable belt  93  (FIG. 19B) is provided to replace traction member  106  (FIG.  14 ). Such retractable belt  93  is a lot similar to a seat belt commonly found in the automotive industry. Belt  93  slides through a “pivoting, belt slot”  99  similar to the ones mounted on the side pillars of most passenger cars. A retracting-cartridge  98  for such belt  93  is located near (or is part of) pivoting-linkage  92 . Cartridge  93  has a “lock-and-release” mechanism (not shown) to control the length of belt  93 . Controls (not shown) for accessing the lock-and-release mechanism of cartridge  93  can be suitably situated anywhere on the body of the exerciser. 
     A retractable belt  93  would nullify most of the accessories found previously on the traction-member assembly  106  (FIG.  14 ). There is no longer a need for bumps  78  (FIG. 14) distributed at regular intervals. The same effect can be achieved by merely adjusting the length of belt  93  (FIG. 19B) so that a bump  94  is at the desired location. 
     A foot-strap  96  (FIG. 19B) serves the equivalent purpose of foot-strap  76  (FIG.  14 ). Furthermore, when foot-strap  96  is bent around primary handle  86 , as shown in FIG. 19C, then it can serve the same function as that of ankle-strap  110  (FIG.  18 ). Thus, a strap  110  as shown in FIG. 18A is not needed for the exerciser shown in FIG.  19 C. 
     FIGS. 19D and 19E illustrate a further simplified arrangement of retractable belt  93 , which nullifies the need for a bump  94  (FIG. 19B) and a foot-strap  96 . Belt  93  (FIGS.  19 D, 19 E) feeds from cartridge  98 , slides through belt slot  99 A and is fixated on belt slot  99 . The section of belt  93  between belt slots  99  and  99 A can be extended to form a loop as shown in FIG.  19 E. 
     Any alternative embodiment, regardless of its degree of mutation, would be operated to perform exercises in the same way to that of the preferred embodiment. In other words, understanding of how to operate the preferred embodiment, will extend to the alternative embodiments as well. 
     Operation of the Preferred Embodiment 
     Overview 
     The operator starts by selectively positioning his/her body to interface with the device, holding on to rigid-members  100 , and securing the feet on traction-members  106 , as exemlpified in FIG.  20 A. The operator proceeds by inducing repetitive displacement of his/her own bodyweight through motion of the arms (or legs, depending on the exercise to impart fatigue on the working muscles. 
     The function of traction-members  106  (FIG. 20A) is to restrain the operator&#39;s feet relative to each of rigid-members  100 . The importance of traction-members  106  becomes apparent in several exercises, where the operator&#39;s body is positioned at such a shallow angle (see FIG.  21 A, 21 B), that it would be impossible to keep rigid-members  100  and the operator from loosing traction and skidding apart. 
     Ankle strap  110  can be adjusted on beam  52  by loosening metal clamps  50 , lowering ankle-strap  110  and retightening metal clamps  50  at a new position on beam  52 . Such adjustment may be necessary for some individuals to ensure that ankle strap  110  is at a proper distance from knee-strap  112 . This adjustment would facilitate comfortable execution of the leg curl exercise shown in FIGS.  30 A, 30 B. 
     The philosophy of using the proposed exercise device is similar to that of doing common push-ups. In the case of push-ups, the operator assumes a position above the ground and takes advantage of gravity to resist the motion of his/her arms. Similarly, the operator can use the proposed device to make gravity resist the motion of his/her arms (or legs) in ways that would isolate a specific muscle group, or combinations of muscle groups. 
     The exercise method (FIGS. 20A through 31B) 
     The proposed device can be utilized to isolate and exercise a wide range of muscles throughout the body. A list of postures has been developed for that purpose and an indicative set of such postures is presented in FIGS. 20A through 31B. However, there is a great number of variations and minor adjustments that can be performed which can not be practically shown in this text. Furthermore, the end user will be encouraged and challenged to develop intuition for his/her own body by discovering the proper posture and variations that optimize the intended effect of each exercise. 
     In the following text, the initial and final positions of each exercise are indicated by a letter suffix following each figure number. For example, FIG. 20A indicates the initial position, while FIG. 20B indicates the final position of the same exercise. For every exercise shown in FIGS. 20A through 31B there is a corresponding equivalent, which can be performed in a commercial weight-training facility. 
     Exercises for the arms 
     FIGS.  20 A, 20 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the arm biceps muscle group. The rigid-members  100  are spaced apart to shoulder-width and they are arranged parallel to each other. The traction members  106  are placed on the ground, extended straight, and parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG.  20 A), the operator  81  is facing up, holding primary handles  44  and keeping rigid members  100  slightly tilted from vertical and above the shoulders. The operator&#39;s knees are bent and his/her feet are positioned near the end of foot-straps  76 . At the final stage (FIG.  20 B), the operator bends the elbows flexing the biceps muscles, thus pulling the entire body upwards while keeping rigid members  100  as still as possible. This exercise is equivalent to a common ‘Concentration curl’. 
     FIGS.  21 A, 21 B illustrate a variation exercise for the arm biceps muscle group. The rigid-members  100  of the exerciser are arranged to converge to a point at the bottom end, while they are kept spaced at shoulder-width near handles  44 . The traction members are extended on the ground parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG.  21 A), the operator  81  is nearly laying horizontal, without touching the ground, facing upwards. The operator  81  is holding handles  44  with elbows slightly bend and close to the torso. The toes of the operator&#39;s feet are pressing against the first row of bumps  78  of the traction members  106 . The rigid-members  100  are positioned over the operator&#39;s shoulders with auxiliary handles  54  facing outwards. The operator&#39;s hips are resting on his/her heels. At the final stage (FIG. 21B) the operator bends his/her elbows pulling towards handles  44  pivoting the entire body about bump  78 . This exercise is equivalent to a common ‘Barbell curl’. 
     FIGS.  22 A, 22 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the forearm muscles. The rigid members  100  are held parallel to each other at a very shallow angle so that handles  44  are at knee-height. The traction-members  106  are extended parallel, placed on the ground. At the initial stage (FIG. 22A) the operator  81  positions his/her toes behind the first row of bumps  78  and rests the posterior of the forearms on the knees. The operator  81  leans slightly forward pushing with the knees against the wrists while holding handles  44  at the base of his/her fingers bending the wrists and creating tension on the flexor muscles of the forearms. At the final stage (FIG. 22B) the operator  81  uses wrist motion to push against handles  44 . This exercise is equivalent to a common ‘Wrist-curl’. 
     FIGS.  23 A, 23 B illustrates a posture intended to isolate the arm triceps muscle group. The rigid members  100  are arranged to converge to a point at the lower end, forming a v-shape, which is hip-wide near auxiliary handles  54 . The traction-members of the exerciser are extended parallel to each other and lay on the ground. At the initial stage (FIG.  23 A), the operator  81  is in a bent position facing towards the ends of traction-members  106 , with the arms extended downwards, in line with the torso, holding handles  54 . The operator&#39;s feet are positioned on top of foot-straps  76 . At the final stage (FIG. 23B) the operator bends his/her elbows in a strict motion lowering his/her entire body pivoting around the ankles. This exercise is equivalent to a common ‘Cable triceps pull-down’. 
     FIGS.  24 A, 24 B illustrate a variation posture intended to isolate the arm triceps muscle group. The rigid-members  100  are arranged to form a v-shape converging to a point at the ends while auxiliary handles  54  are pointing inwards and touching each other. The traction members  106  are extended, laying on the ground parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG. 24A) the operator  81  is facing downwards with his/her extended holding handles  54 . The operator&#39;s toes are pressed against the second row of bumps  78  on traction-members  106  and the knees are slightly bent. At the final stage (FIG.  24 B), the operator leans forward bending his/her elbows to bring handles  54  near the forehead. This exercise is equivalent to ‘Lying triceps extensions’ with a bar. 
     Exercises for deltoids and muscles at the shoulders 
     FIGS.  25 A, 25 B illustrates a posture intended to isolate the rear deltoid and upper trapezius muscles. The rigid members  100  are arranged to form a v-shape, either converging at the ends with handles  44  spaced apart, or converging at the top with shoes  62  spaced apart. At the initial stage (FIG. 25A) the operator  81  is holding handles  44  with arms extended along the direction of the rigid-members  100 . The operator  81  secures the insets of his/her feet through the loops  79  against the first row of bumps  78 , while at a sitting position, resting the hips on the heels of his/her feet. At the final stage (FIG. 25B) the operator pulls his/her torso forward bringing handles  44  at shoulder height. This exercise is equivalent to ‘Upright-rows’, especially when performed with the shoes  62  spaced apart. 
     Exercises for the upper and lower back 
     FIGS.  26 A, 26 B illustrates a posture intended to isolate the upper back and trapezius muscles. The lower ends of rigid-members  100  are spaced apart at shoulder-width and held nearly vertical, while handles  54  are pointing outwards. The traction members  106  are extended parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG.  26 A), the operator&#39;s body is tilted to a shallow angle facing upwards with arms extending forward and holding handles  44 . The operator&#39;s heels are secured within loops  79  against the first row of bumps  78 . At the final stage (FIG. 26B) the operator pulls his/her entire body upwards pivoting about his/her heels to bring the chest near the level of handles  44 . This exercise is equivalent to a ‘Lateral prone raise’, or ‘Wide grip rows’. 
     FIGS.  27 A, 27 B illustrates a posture intended to isolate the latissimus dorsi muscles of the back. The rigid-members  100  are spaced at shoulder-width and held nearly vertical, with handles  54  facing outwards. The traction members  106  are extended on the ground parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG. 27A) the operator&#39;s torso is on the vertical and in-between rigid members  100 . The operator&#39;s legs are extended forward with the knees slightly bent and the feet pressing on foot-straps  76 . At the final stage (FIG. 27B) the operator pulls upwards bringing the shoulders at the level of handles  44 . This exercise is equivalent to a ‘Lat pulldown’ or a ‘Chin-up’. 
     FIGS.  28 A, 28 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the outer latissimus dorsi muscles. The rigid members  100  are spaced apart at shoulder-width and handles  54  are facing outwards. The traction-members  106  are extended on the ground parallel to each other. At the initial stage (FIG. 28A) the operator  81  stands on foot-straps  76  with his/her torso slightly bent forward. The operator&#39;s arms are held close to the body holding handles  44 . Rigid-members  100  extend backwards tilted to the same angle as the operator&#39;s torso. At the final stage (FIG. 28B) the operator opens his/her arms laterally in a strict controlled movement, lowering his/her body pivoting about the feet. The resulting posture should resemble a gymnastic ‘L-cross’ stunt. This exercise is equivalent to ‘Vertical cable flyes’. 
     Exercises for the pectoral muscles 
     FIGS.  29 A, 29 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the pectoral muscle group. The rigid-members  100  are arranged to form a v-shape, converging to a point at the lower end. The traction-members  106  are extended on the ground and are also converging to the same point as rigid-members  100 . At the initial stage (FIG. 29B) the operator&#39;s body is kept straight and tilted forward with arms extended to the front holding handles  54 . The operator&#39;s toes are pressed against the second row of bumps  78  on traction-member  106 . At the final stage (FIG. 29B) the operator extents his/her arms sideways as it would be in a hugging movement, lowering their torso bringing the chest at the level of handles  54 . This exercise is equivalent to ‘Bench flyes’. 
     The equivalents of decline and incline ‘Bench flyes’ can also be accomplished, depending on the position of the operator&#39;s feet on traction-member  106  and the orientation of the torso relative to rigid members  100 . 
     Exercises for the legs 
     FIGS.  30 A, 30 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the leg biceps muscles. The rigid-members  100  are positioned flat on the ground, parallel to each other, with handles  54  facing outwards. The traction members  106  are not utilized in this exercise, thus they are aesthetically positioned in between rigid-members  100 . At the initial stage (FIG. 30A) the operator  81  kneels on top of rigid-members  100 . The operator&#39;s ankles are strapped with ankle-strap  110  and the operator&#39;s knees are cushioned by knee-supports  112 . The operator bends his/her torso slightly forward in order to bring the center of gravity just in front of his/her knees. At the final stage (FIG. 30B) the operator pivots about his/her knees on supports  112  leaning forward until the operator&#39;s head is close to, but not touching, the ground. This exercise is equivalent to a ‘Leg curl’. 
     FIGS.  31 A, 31 B illustrate a posture intended to isolate the leg quadriceps muscles. The rigid members  100  are arranged parallel to each other with handles  54  facing outwards. At the initial stage (FIG. 31A) the operator  81  places foot-straps  76  around the angles and primary handles  44  at the crook of his/her knees. The operator  81  is standing cross-armed with his/her knees slightly bent. At the final stage (FIG. 31B) the operator  81  lowers his/her entire body backwards in a strict controlled motion, pivoting about his/her knees, until the torso becomes almost horizontal. This exercise is equivalent to a ‘Leg extension’. 
     Within each exercise mentioned above, there is a great number of sub-variations that can be performed to uniquely involve minor muscles as well as different portions of major muscles. Furthermore, the difficulty of each exercise can be adjusted depending on how the operator chooses to locate the center of gravity of his/her own bodyweight. 
     Conclusions Ramifications and Scope 
     Simplicity, utilitarian design, lightweight structure, travel size, extensive function, freedom of motion, weight resistance and muscle building, are some indicative keywords that can be used to describe the proposed exerciser. It has been developed and succinctly designed to exhibit the most favorable features of a workout experience in a commercial facility. At the same time it intents to fulfill any desire for mobility without sacrificing thoroughness and effectiveness. Furthermore, by virtue of its simplicity the proposed device is also cost effective. With such an extensive array of exercise variations at such a compact package, this device offers enough functionality so that the only thing which needs to be supplied, is the determination and dedication of the individual towards health and fitness. 
     The preferred embodiment as mentioned in this text is capable of performing the intended functions without signs of deficiency. However, as mentioned before, there is a number of factors that may necessitate mutations of the device. Such mutations can be drastic, as it was briefly illustrated by the alternative embodiments presented earlier in this text, or they can be relatively minor. Regardless of how extensive, or numerous, the potential changes may be, the principal characteristics, or essence, of the design should remain constant. 
     Therefore, in essence, the proposed device is an arrangement of a pole connected to line (tether) and used in pairs with the intent to perform weight resistance exercises. Within this design boundary, a number of refinements can be applied to maximize functionality. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the pole is represented by rigid member  100  (FIG. 1) and the line is represented by traction member  106 . 
     The rigid member  100  can be fixed, reducible, continuously variable or intermittently variable in length and its material composition can vary, as long as its weight is minimal and it can withstand any compressive and bending forces generated during normal operation. 
     The rigid member  100  comprises: 
     a) A primary handle  44  located above the middle, and preferably, at the upper end of rigid member  100 . Primary handle  44  may come in a variety of shapes or materials, as long as it is comfortable both to the hands and when pressed against the crook of the knee and it can withstand pressure along the axis of rigid member  100 . Primary handle  44  may be fixed, it may be adjustable in height, it may be detachable, it may be pivoting, it may be slidable, and it may have optional attachments such as a cushion  108 . 
     b) An optional auxiliary handle  54  (FIG. 1) (or a plurality of auxiliary handles) distributed anywhere along the body of rigid member  100 . Auxiliary handle(s)  54  may come in a variety of shapes, or materials, as long as it can accept downward pressure along the axis of rigid member  100 , exerted by the hands of the operator. Auxiliary handle(s)  54  may be permanent, adjustable, detachable, sliding, pivoting, and it may have optional attachments such as a knee-support  112 . 
     c) A knee-support  112  (FIG. 1) located near the middle of rigid member  100 . Knee-support  112  may come in a variety of shapes and materials, as long as it feels comfortable to an average human being when supporting his/her entire weight. Knee support  112  may be adjustable, detachable, or fixed on rigid member  100 . Knee support  112  may also exist as an attachment for auxiliary handle  54  or it can be blended as part of the design of rigid member  100 . 
     d) An optional ankle-strap  110  (FIG. 1) adjustably or permanently located preferably near either end of rigid member  100 . The distance between ankle strap  110  and knee support  112  should be equivalent to that from the ankle to the knee of an average person. Ankle strap  110  may be adjustable or fixed in length, it may be detachable or permanent, it may be flexible or rigid. The material composition and shape can vary, as long as it can firmly retain a person&#39;s ankle on rigid member  100  without inducing discomfort. The use of ankle strap  110  is shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B. 
     e) A juncture element such as shoe  62  (FIG.  1 ), or belt-slot  99  (FIG.  18 B), preferably near the lower end of rigid member  100 . Such juncture element may have revolving or pivotal characteristics and its shape can vary as long as it can sustain tensional forces generated on traction member  106  and allows rigid member  100  to rotate about its axis, to a certain extent, without restriction from traction member  106 . 
     f) A friction-tip  64  at the lower end of rigid member  100  can assume a variety of shapes and material compositions as long as it provides stable ground engagement and it doesn&#39;t restrain the swaying motion of rigid member  100  in any direction. 
     g) Optional attachments such as a belt cartridge  98  (FIG. 19B can be located any-where on the body of rigid member  100 . 
     The traction member  106  is preferably 1.5 times, or longer, than a fully extended rigid member  100  and it can be fixed or adjustable in length, continuously extendable or intermittently extendable and comprising any of: 
     a) Optional bump  94  (FIG. 19B) or bumps  78  (FIG. 1) spaced apart and arranged longitudinally towards the free end of traction member  106 . The shape and material composition of bump  94 , or bumps  78 , can vary as long as it provides unfailing foot support during normal exercise. Bump  94  (or bumps  78 ) may have optional attachments such as a foot-strap  96  as shown in FIG.  19 B. 
     b) optional loop formations such as loops  79  (FIG. 14) or foot-strap  76  (FIG.  19 B), distributed along the length of traction member  106 . 
     There should be at least one obstruction, either a bump or a loop, found directly bellow primary handle  44  when rigid member  100  is tilted over traction member  106  and primary handle  44  is at knee&#39;s height, thus facilitating a leg extension exercise as shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B.