Abstract:
A family of exercise apparatuses designed to target a variety of muscle groups is disclosed. The family includes a variety of distinct exercise apparatuses utilizing a substantially identical base structure. The base structure comprises a central support member having a first end to which a user support structure is secured and a second end to which a weight stack is secured, wherein the weight stack is actuated by a cable secured thereto for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. In addition, each distinct exercise apparatus further includes first and second lateral support sleeves secured to the base structure for directing opposite strands of the cable to a predetermined position for engagement by a user. An exercise apparatus and a method for manufacturing exercise apparatuses are disclosed. 
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which set forth certain embodiments of the invention.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates to a family of exercise apparatuses. More particularly, the invention relates to a family of exercise apparatuses built upon a substantially identical base structure allowing users to move in a wide range of motions from a single support position. 
     2. Description of the Prior Art 
     Exercise apparatuses providing an integrally formed user support with an adjacent weight stack have been around for some time. As these apparatuses have developed, their specific uses have become highly specialized. This specialization has developed to the point where current exercise apparatuses are designed to exercise specific muscle groups by moving an individual&#39;s limbs through a highly controlled motion. 
     While these prior art exercise apparatuses are effective in developing specifically targeted muscle groups, they do not provide individuals with the versatility required to easily vary the targeted muscle groups. For example, where an individual wishes to work his or her biceps, repetitive motion along a highly controlled path will target a specific portion of an individual&#39;s biceps while also less effectively targeting adjacent portions of the individual&#39;s biceps. With this in mind, the controlled nature of such exercise apparatuses prevents the individual from slightly varying his or her exercising motion to effectively target the wide range of muscles making up the individual&#39;s biceps. 
     Similarly, conventional chest exercise apparatuses provide a bench upon which a user lies while he or she pushes upwardly against the resistance of a weight stack. Whether the weight stack is attached via cables with handles on the ends thereof or a rigid bar engaged by both hands at the same time, these exercise apparatuses require that a user sit or lay on the support surface in a somewhat precise position while engaging the handles or bar. As with the prior exercise apparatuses discussed throughout the Background of the Invention, prior chest exercise apparatuses limit variations in the exercises which may be performed, and thereby limit an individual&#39;s ability to target specific related muscles while using the same exercise apparatus. 
     The controlled nature of current exercise apparatuses is readily overcome by using free weights. However, free weights fail to offer many of the conveniences offered by stationary exercise apparatuses. For example, free weights are far less controlled, often requiring a partner for spotting and requiring substantial effort to vary the effort level when compared to the use of integral exercise apparatuses. 
     With the foregoing in mind, a need exists for a highly versatile, integral exercise apparatus. The exercise apparatus must provide the user with the possibility for a wide range of motions from a single support bench, while maintaining many of the conveniences offered by conventional exercise apparatuses. The present invention provides such an exercise apparatus. In fact, the present invention provides a variety of exercise apparatuses offering desirable flexibility with the convenience of an integral exercise apparatus. 
     In addition, and as briefly discussed above, a variety of exercise apparatuses have been designed for targeting specific muscle groups. In fact, if one were to visit his or her local gym, they would find specific apparatuses for targeting the triceps, biceps, lats, shoulders, abdominals, the chest, etc. They would also notice multipurpose apparatuses simulating common motions, for example, rowing motions, pull-up machines and dip machines. 
     Prior designers have been required to start from scratch, or close to scratch, when developing a new exercise apparatus targeting a specific body part. The necessity for varying the apparatus design adds substantial cost to the development process. The additional cost may result in fewer new exercise apparatuses reaching the market or increased cost being passed on to consumers. A need, therefore, also exists for a novel structure to be implemented in the development of a family of exercise apparatuses. The structure must provide manufacturers with the ability to design new apparatuses around a single base structure without requiring substantial variation of the base structure to implement the modifications required for targeting different muscles groups. The present invention provides such a structure as well as a system for implementing the structure in the development of a family of exercise apparatuses. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a family of exercise apparatuses designed to target a variety of muscle groups. The family includes a variety of distinct exercise apparatuses utilizing a substantially identical base structure. The base structure comprises a central support member having a first end to which a user support structure is secured and a second end to which a weight stack is secured, wherein the weight stack is actuated by a cable secured thereto for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. In addition, each distinct exercise apparatus further includes first and second lateral support sleeves secured to the base structure for directing opposite strands of the cable to a predetermined position for engagement by a user. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide an exercise apparatus including a base structure having a central support member with a first end to which a user support structure is secured and a second end to which a weight stack is secured, wherein the weight stack is actuated by a cable secured thereto for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. The exercise apparatus further includes first and second lateral support sleeves selectively secured to the base structure for directing opposite strands of the cable to a predetermined position for engagement by a user. 
     It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for manufacturing a family of exercise apparatuses designed to target a variety of muscle groups. The method is achieved by creating a base structure dimensioned for use in the development of a variety of distinct exercise apparatuses designed to target different muscle groups. The base structure includes a central support member having a first end to which a user support structure is secured and a second end to which a weight stack is secured, wherein the weight stack is actuated by a cable secured thereto for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. The first and second lateral support sleeves are then selectively secured to the base structure at distinct positions for directing opposite strands of the cable to predetermined positions for engagement by a user to perform various exercises targeting different muscle groups. 
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which set forth certain embodiments of the invention. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a top view of a chest exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the chest exercise apparatus along the line II—II in FIG.  3 . 
     FIG. 3 is a side view of the chest exercise apparatus shown in FIG.  1 . 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pivoting pulley in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 5 is a top view of the shoulder exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the shoulder exercise apparatus along the line VI—VI in FIG.  7 . 
     FIG. 7 is a side view of the shoulder exercise apparatus shown in FIG.  5 . 
     FIG. 8 is a top view of an abdominal exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the abdominal exercise apparatus along the line IX—IX in FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 10 is a side view of the abdominal exercise apparatus as shown in FIG.  8 . 
     FIG. 11 is a top view of a biceps exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the biceps exercise along the line XII—XII in FIG.  13 . 
     FIG. 13 is a side view of a biceps exercise apparatus as shown in FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a triceps exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 15 is a cross section view of the triceps exercise apparatus along the line XV—XV in FIG.  16 . 
     FIG. 16 is a side view of the triceps exercise apparatus as shown in FIG.  14 . 
     FIG. 17 is a top view of a rowing exercise apparatus is in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of the rowing exercise apparatus along the line XVIII—XVIII in FIG.  19 . 
     FIG. 19 is a side view of the rowing exercise apparatus as shown in FIG.  17 . 
     FIG. 20 is a detailed view of the leg support used in conjunction with the rowing exerciser apparatus. 
     FIG. 21 is a top view of a lat exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the lat exercise apparatus along the line XXII—XXII in FIG.  23 . 
     FIG. 23 is a side view of the lat exercise apparatus as shown in FIG.  22 . 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limited, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to make and/or use the invention. 
     With reference to FIGS. 1 to  23 , a family of exercise apparatuses is disclosed. Each member of the family is adapted for targeting a specific body part, or parts. However, and as discussed above in the Background of the Invention, the various exercise apparatuses making up the present family each include a substantially identical base structure around which the various exercise apparatuses are designed and constructed. 
     Each exercise apparatus is constructed with a base structure  10  including a central support member  12  having a first end  14  to which a user support structure  16  is secured and a second end  18  to which a weight stack  20  is secured. A single cable  22  actuates the weight stack  20 . The single cable  22  is secured to the weight stack  20  for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. Each apparatus further includes first and second support sleeves selectively secured to the base structure  16  for directing first and second strands  28 ,  30  (i.e., opposite strands) of the cable  22  to a predetermined position for engagement by a user. 
     The central support member  12  is preferably a tubular member. The tubular construction of the central support member  12  permits designers to pass the opposite cable strands  28 ,  30  therethrough to facilitate the adaptation of the base structure  10  for targeting various body parts. As with all of the structural components used in the manufacture of the present family of exercise apparatuses, the central support member  12  is formed from steel, although those skilled in the art will appreciate the other materials which may be used in the construction of the disclosed exercise apparatuses without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     The weight stack  20  secured to the second end  18  of the central support member  12  is a generally conventional weight stack and includes vertical support members  32  aligning to support a stack of weight plates  34  to be moved via a pulley system which will be discussed below in greater detail. The weight stack  20  is covered by a protective sleeve  36  positioned about the weight stack  20 . 
     As will be discussed below in substantially greater detail, the weight stack  20  is actuated by a single cable  22  which controls the movement of the weight stack  20 . The central portion  38  of the cable  22  is passed through a first pulley  40 . A coupling member  42  directly couples the stack of weight plates  34  to the first pulley  40  in a conventional manner. Opposite strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  then respectively extend over first and second upper pulleys  44 ,  46  before passing over first and second lower pulleys  48 ,  50 . In the case of the rowing apparatus, lat apparatus and triceps apparatus, the cable  22  merely passes over the upper pulleys  44 ,  46  before being positioned for engagement by the user. A variation such as this does not limit the functionality of the present base structure  10 , as the variation only requires bypassing the lower pulleys  48 ,  50  without modifying the base structure  10  itself. In addition, and as will become apparent from the following disclosure, the angular orientation of the various pulleys may be readily adjusted to accommodate the various apparatuses making up the present invention. In this way, the cable  22  may be readily oriented to suit the needs of specific apparatuses. 
     After passing over the first and second lower pulleys, the respective first and second strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  pass through the opening formed in the central support member and toward the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . Once reaching the first end  14  of the central support member  12 , the first and second strands  28 ,  30  of the cable exit the central support member  12  for positioning in accordance with the specific use for which the base structure  10  is being applied. 
     The respective ends  52 ,  54  of the first and second strands  28 ,  30  are each provided with stop members  56 . As those skilled in the art will readily appreciate, the stop members  56  control motion of the single cable  22  to allow exercise by pulling the first strand  28  alone, the second strand  30  alone, or both strands at the same time. 
     First and second lateral support members are also secured to the second end  18  of the central support member  12 . The lateral support members  58 ,  60  extend outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central support member  12  and away from the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . The combination of the cental support member  12 , the first lateral support  58  and the second lateral support  60  create a tripod foundation structure. This foundation structure supports the remaining components of the present exercise apparatuses, as well as users of the present exercise apparatuses. 
     With a versatile base structure  10  as disclosed above, each specific family member is created by selectively mounting desired support sleeves at various locations along the base structure  10 . In this way, various exercise apparatuses are created from a single base structure  10  by orienting support sleeves for access along general motion lines. Each of the family members is discussed in below in detail. The following disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive of the many exercise apparatuses which may be manufactured from the disclosed base structure  10 , but merely as exemplary of the various apparatuses which may be fabricated in accordance with the present invention. 
     The provision of a base structure  10  which may be readily used in the manufacture of distinct exercise apparatuses facilitates a novel method for the manufacture of exercise apparatuses. Specifically, a family of exercise apparatuses designed to target a variety of muscle groups is manufactured by first creating a base structure  10  dimensioned for use in the development of a variety of distinct exercise apparatuses designed to target different muscle groups. The base structure  10  includes a central support member  12  having a first end  14  to which a user support structure  16  is secured and a second end  18  to which a weight stack  20  is secured, wherein the weight stack  20  is actuated by a single cable  22  secured thereto for movement by an individual using a distinct exercise apparatus. First and second lateral support sleeves are then secured to the base structure  10  at distinct positions. The first and second support sleeves direct opposite strands  52 ,  54  of the cable  22  to predetermined positions for engagement by a user to perform various exercises targeting different muscle groups. 
     With reference to FIGS. 1 to  3 , a chest exercise apparatus  100  in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. The chest exercise apparatus  100  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. In order to accommodate the chest exercises being performed on the disclosed apparatus, the base structure  10 , and specifically the user support structure  16 , include a full seat  102  with an inclined backrest  104 . The seat  102  is vertically adjustable to accommodate users of various sizes. While the present vertical adjustment mechanism is not critical to the invention disclosed in the present application, those skilled in the art will appreciate the variety of adjustment mechanism which may be used within the spirit of the present invention. 
     The backrest  104  is inclined at approximately an angle of 20°. While the specific orientation of the backrest  104  is considered ideal for the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it should be appreciated that the backrest  104  may be oriented at a variety of angles without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The backrest  104  provides the support necessary for performing chest exercises as an individual faces toward the weight stack  20  in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. While a specific seat structure is disclosed in accordance with the present invention, other seat structures may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     The single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  extends from the weight stack  20  and through the center of the central support member  12  toward the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . After exiting the first end  14  of the central support member  12 , the respective strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  are guided along the back surface  106  of the support column  114  of seat  102  by a series of pulleys to first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110  extending from opposite sides of the backrest  104 . Specifically, each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable respectively engages a parallel oriented pulley  112   a ,  112   b  positioned adjacent the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . Each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  then engages a transversely oriented pulley  116   a ,  116   b  positioned midway up the support column  114 . The transversely oriented pulleys  116   a ,  116   b  direct the cable  22  into respective first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110 . 
     The support sleeves  108 ,  110  extend upwardly and outwardly such that the distal end  118 ,  120  of each of the first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110  terminates at a position approximately in line with the top portion of the backrest  104  and the extended elbows of an individual using the present chest exercise apparatus  100 . In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal ends  118 ,  120  of the first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110  are positioned approximately 40 inches above the central support member  12  as the support sleeves  108 ,  110  respectively extend upwardly at an angle of 25° with respect to a horizontal plane and rearwardly at an angle of 5° with respect to a vertical plane. 
     First and second pivoting pulleys  122 ,  124  are respectively coupled to the distal ends  118 ,  120  of the first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  108 ,  110 , pass over the pivoting pulleys  122 ,  124  and are ready for engagement by the user. The distal end  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted with a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in the art. 
     The pivoting pulley  122 ,  124  is shown in greater detail in FIG.  4 . Each pivoting pulley  122 ,  124  includes a frame  126  with a central pivot  128  for rotatably supporting a pulley member  130 . The frame  126  is formed so as to cover the pulley member  130  and thereby prevent undesired access with the pulley member  130  as the cable  22  passes thereover. The frame  126  is further provided with a counterweight  131  opposite the pulley member  130 . The frame  126  further includes a cylindrical coupling member  132  shaped and dimensioned for pivotal attachment to the distal end  118 ,  120  of a support sleeve  108 ,  110 . The cylindrical coupling member  132  provides an opening through which the cable  22  passes as it extends from the support sleeve  108 ,  110  toward the pulley member  130 . In this way, the cable  22  passes along the axis about which the pivoting pulley pivots  122 , 124  relative to the support sleeve  108 ,  110  to provide greater freedom of motion as an individual attempts to draw the cable  22  in various directions during exercise. 
     Since the pivoting pulley  122 ,  124  permits a great degree of flexibility with regard to the angle at which the cable  22  is drawn from the support sleeve  108 ,  110 , the inclusion of the present pivoting pulleys  122 ,  124  at the distal end  118 ,  120  of each support sleeve  108 ,  110  greatly increases the flexibility of the present exercise apparatus. 
     In use, an individual is seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends of the respective strands of the cable, and push the handles toward the weight stack to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 1 to  3 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of chest muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present chest exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     With reference to FIGS. 5 to  7 , a shoulder exercise apparatus  200  in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. The shoulder exercise apparatus  200  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. In order to accommodate the shoulder exercises being performed on the disclosed apparatus, the user support structure  16  includes a full seat  202  with an inclined backrest  204 . 
     As with the chest exercise apparatus, the seat  202  is vertically adjustable and the backrest  204  provides support necessary for performing shoulder exercises as an individual faces toward the weight stack  20  in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. While a specific seat  202  structure is disclosed in accordance with the present invention, other seat structures may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     The single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  discussed above extends from the weight stack  20  and through the center of the central support member  12  toward the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . After exiting the first end  14  of the central support member  12 , the respective strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  are directed by respective pulleys  206 ,  207  to enter first and second support sleeves  208 ,  210  secured to the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . The support sleeves  208 ,  210  extend slightly upwardly and outwardly such that the distal end  218 ,  220  of each of the first and second support sleeves  208 ,  210  terminates at a position approximately aligned with the shoulder position of an individual who might be utilizing the present shoulder exercise apparatus  200 . 
     Specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal end  218 ,  220  of each support sleeve  208 ,  210  is positioned approximately 7 inches above the central support member  12  as the support sleeves  208 ,  210  respectively extend upwardly at an angle of 10° relative to a horizontal plane and rearwardly at an angle of 7° relative to a vertical plane. 
     First and second pivoting pulleys  222 ,  224  are respectively coupled to the distal ends  218 ,  220  of the first and second support sleeves  208 ,  210 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  208 ,  210 , pass over the pivoting pulleys  222 ,  224  and are ready for engagement by the user. As with the chest exercise apparatus  100 , the distal end  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted with a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in the art. 
     The pivoting pulleys  222 ,  224  are identical to those discussed above with reference to FIG.  4 . In use, an individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal end of each strand and push the handles upwardly to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 5 to  8 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of shoulder muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present shoulder exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     With reference to FIGS. 8 to  10 , an abdominal exercise apparatus  300  in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. The abdominal exercise apparatus  300  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. In order to accommodate the abdominal exercises being performed on the disclosed apparatus, the base structure  10  includes a user support structure  16  with an inclined backrest  304  similar to that disclosed with regard to the chest exercise apparatus  100 . The backrest  304  provides the support necessary for performing abdominal exercises as an individual faces toward the weight stack  20  in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. While a specific seat  302  structure is disclosed in accordance with the present invention, other seat structures may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     As with the other exercise apparatuses, the single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  extends from the weight stack  20  and through the center of the central support member  12  toward the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . After exiting the first end  14  of the central support member  12 , the respective strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  are guided along the back surface of a support column  314  of the seat  302  by a series of pulleys to first and second support sleeves  308 ,  310  extending from opposite sides of the seat backrest  304 . 
     Specifically, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  are respectively guided by a first pair of pulleys  312   a ,  312   b  directing the cable  22  along the support column  314 . The strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  are then guided by a pair of transversely oriented pulleys  316   a ,  316   b  into the first and second support sleeves  308 ,  310 . 
     The first and second support sleeves  308 ,  310  extend upwardly and outwardly such that the distal end  318 ,  320  of each support sleeve  308 ,  310  terminates at a position approximately in line with the top portion of the seat backrest  304  and in line with the shoulders of an individual utilizing the present apparatus. 
     Specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal end  318 ,  320  of each support sleeve  308 ,  310  is positioned approximately 50 inches above the central support member  12  as the support sleeves  308 ,  310  respectively extend upwardly at and angle of 60° relative to a horizontal plane and rearwardly at an angle of 0° relative to a vertical plane. 
     First and second pivoting pulleys  322 ,  324  are respectively coupled to distal ends  318 ,  320  of the first and second support sleeves  308 ,  310 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  308 ,  310  pass over the pivoting pulleys  322 ,  324  and are ready for engagement by the user. The distal end  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted to a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in art. The pivoting pulleys are the same as those disclosed in FIG.  4 . 
     In use, an individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends at the respective ends of the cable, and push the handles toward the weight stack to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 8 to  10 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of abdominal muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present abdominal exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     With reference to FIGS. 11 to  13 , a biceps exercise apparatus  400  in accordance with present invention is disclosed. The biceps exercise apparatus  400  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. In contrast to the abdominal exercise machine  300 , the shoulder exercise machine  200  and the chest exercise machine  100 , the biceps exercise apparatus  400  includes a simple seat  402  for supporting an individual. The seat  402  structure does not include a backrest since individuals utilizing the biceps exercise apparatus  400  will not require back support during the exercise. 
     The single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  extends from the weight stack  20  and through the first and second lower pulleys  48 ,  50  discussed above. The strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  do not extend through the central support member  12 . Rather, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  extend into support sleeves  408 ,  410  directly secured at the second end  18  of the central support member  12 . 
     The support sleeves  408 ,  410  extend outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central support member  12  and slightly toward the first end  14  of the central support member  12 . The distal end  418 ,  420  of each of the first and second sleeves  408 ,  410  terminates at a position substantially outside the shoulder width of an individual who might be utilizing the exercise apparatus. 
     Specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal ends  418 ,  420  of the first and second support sleeves  408 ,  410  tip up 5 inches from the ground while the support sleeves  408 ,  410  respectively extend rearwardly at an angle of 25° relative to a vertical plane for a distance of approximately 15 inches. 
     As with the prior exercise devices, first and second pivoting pulleys  422 ,  424  are respectively coupled to the distal ends  418 ,  422  of the first and second support sleeve  408 ,  410 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  408 ,  410 , pass over the pivoting pulleys  422 ,  424  and are ready for engagement by the user. The pivoting pulleys  422 ,  424  are shown in greater detail in FIG. 4, and are discussed above. The distal ends  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted with a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in the art. 
     In use, an individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends of the respective ends of the cable, and pull the handle toward himself or herself to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 10 to  13 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of biceps muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present biceps exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     With reference to FIGS. 14 to  16 , a triceps exercise apparatus  500  in accordance the present invention is disclosed. The triceps exercise apparatus  500  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. As with the biceps exercise apparatus  400 , the triceps exercise apparatus  500  merely discloses a simple seat  502  for supporting a user. While a specific seat  502  structure is disclosed in accordance with the present invention, other seat structures may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     As briefly discussed, the single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  does not extend through the first and second lower pulleys  48 ,  50  as in the exercise apparatuses discussed above. Rather, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  exit the first and second upper pulleys  44 ,  46  and move directly to first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510  secured at the upper end  62  of the weight stack  20 . 
     The first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510  extend outwardly from the upper end  62  of the weight stack  20  such that the distal end  518 ,  520  of each of the first and second support sleeve  518 ,  520  terminates at a position approximately in line with the shoulders of an individual utilizing the present triceps exercise apparatus  500 . Given that the support sleeves  508 ,  510  are secured at the upper end  62  of the weight stack  20 , the distal end  518 ,  520  of each of the first and second support sleeve  508 ,  510  will be slightly above the shoulders, and probably head, of an individual utilizing the present exercise apparatus. 
     Specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510  extend outwardly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the weight stack  20  and within the horizontal plane in which the weight stack  20  sits. The first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510  extend outwardly a distance of 25 inches. 
     First and second pivoting pulleys  522 ,  524  are respectively coupled to the distal ends  518 ,  520  of the first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  508 ,  510 , pass over the pivoting pulleys  522 ,  524  and are ready for engagement by the user. The distal ends  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted with a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in the art. 
     The pivoting pulleys  522 ,  524  are identical to those employed in the other exercise apparatuses and are shown in greater detail in FIG.  4 . In use, the individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends of the respective ends of the cable, and push the handles toward the ground to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 14 to  16 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of triceps muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present triceps exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     With reference to FIGS. 17 to  20 , a rowing exercise apparatus  600  in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. The rowing exercise apparatus  600  is substantially identical to the triceps exercise apparatus  500  and as such only the use of the device will be disclosed herein. However, the rowing exercise apparatus  600  is provided with a leg support  630  adjacent the user support  16 . The leg support  630  includes an upwardly extending post  632  with a vertical bar  634  secured to its upper end. Pads  636 ,  637  are secured to the vertical bar and directed downwardly to engage the knees of an individual using the device. The pads  636 ,  637  are adjustably mounted within respective slots  638 ,  640  formed in the vertical bar  634 . In this way, the pads  636 ,  637  may be adjusted to accommodate users of varying sizes. 
     In use, an individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends of the respective ends of the cable, and pull the handles toward his or her chest to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 17 to  20 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of muscles. 
     With reference to FIGS. 21 to  23 , a lat exercise apparatus  700  in accordance the present invention is disclosed. The lat exercise apparatus  700  includes the base structure  10  discussed above. As with the biceps exercise apparatus  400 , the lat exercise apparatus  700  merely discloses a simple seat  702  for supporting a user. While a specific seat  702  structure is disclosed in accordance with the present invention, other seat structures may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     As briefly discussed, the single cable  22  coupled to the weight stack  20  does not extend through the first and second lower pulleys  48 ,  50  as in the exercise apparatuses discussed above. Rather, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  exit the first and second upper pulleys  44 ,  46  and move directly to first and second support sleeves  708 ,  710  secured at the upper end  62  of the weight stack  20 . 
     The first and second support sleeve  708 ,  710  extend outwardly, upwardly and rearwardly from the upper end of the weight stack  20  such that the distal ends  718 ,  720  of each of the first and second support sleeves  708 ,  710  terminates at a position above the top of the weight stack  20  and the shoulders of an individual utilizing the present lat exercise apparatus  700 . 
     Specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal ends  718 ,  720  of the first and second support sleeves  718 ,  720  are positioned approximately 80 inches above the central support member as the support sleeves respectively extend upwardly at an angle of 15° relative to a horizontal plane and rearwardly at an angle of 40° relative to a vertical plane. 
     First and second pivoting pulleys  722 ,  724  are respectively coupled to the distal ends  718 ,  720  of the first and second support sleeves  708 ,  710 . In this way, the strands  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  respectively exit the first and second support sleeves  708 ,  710 , pass over the pivoting pulleys  722 ,  724  and are ready for engagement by the user. The distal ends  52 ,  54  of each strand  28 ,  30  of the cable  22  may be fitted with a wide variety of grips known to those skilled in the art. 
     The pivoting pulleys  722 ,  724  are identical to those employed in the other exercise apparatuses and are shown in greater detail in FIG.  4 . In use, the individual will be seated on the seat facing the weight stack. The individual will then grip the handles at the distal ends of the respective ends of the cable, and pull the handles toward his or her chest to generate resistance from the weight stack. As shown in FIGS. 22 to  24 , the flexibility provided by the pivoting pulleys permits the individual to move in a wide variety of paths in order to equally exercise a wide variety of lat muscles. 
     While it is disclosed above that the present lat exercise apparatus is designed to be used with the user sitting and facing the weight stack, the versatility provided by the design of the exercise apparatus provides users with virtually unlimited possibilities with regard to the range of exercise motions that may be accommodated by the present exercise apparatus. 
     While the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by such disclosure, but rather, is intended to cover all modifications and alternate constructions falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.