Abstract:
A fitness machine, including: a frame structure; a spanning bar rotatably coupled to the frame structure, wherein the spanning bar selectively rotates about a central axis; a gripping bar coupled to the spanning bar; and a retention mechanism coupled to the spanning bar; wherein, when a user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism and the spanning bar is selectively rotated about the central axis, the user is also rotated about the central axis. Optionally, the spanning bar selectively rotates about the central axis by operation of an electric motor coupled to the spanning bar. Optionally, the spanning bar also selectively rotates about a secondary access that is offset from the central axis. Optionally, the gripping bar is translatable/rotatable with respect to the spanning bar. The spanning bar is disposed at an angle with respect to the frame structure such that a center of gravity of the user substantially coincides with the central axis.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present patent application/patent claims the benefit of priority of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/114,655, filed on Feb. 11, 2015, and entitled “FULL-CORE FITNESS MACHINE,” the contents of which are incorporated in full by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention provides a novel fitness machine that is intended to promote the strengthening of multiple areas of the body at one time, providing a more holistic approach to strength conditioning and overall health. The principles of the present invention can be applied to not only general exercise, but to strength training for athletes, as well as therapeutic applications. The present invention promotes physiological balance, strengthening the body core from head to feet in 360 degrees around the body. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Many forms of weight lifting and other physical training concentrate on specific muscle groups. If one is not careful to balance their training, this can lead to muscular imbalance. For example, doing push-ups regularly without balancing them with back exercises can lead to an imbalance in upper body strength between the chest and back, which can lead to postural problems and other issues. Similar problems exist with doing crunches and other exercises focused on the abdominal muscles without balancing them with lower back exercises. 
         [0004]    Participants in regular exercise may tend to over-emphasize one area of the body, while neglecting other areas of the body, due to certain preferences, more recognizable results, and/or other factors. For example, the bench press, which is very popular, focuses on a limited set of muscles, while ignoring others, due simply to the “one degree of freedom” motion (i.e., up and down only) that works the triceps, deltoid, and pectoral muscles, but largely ignores the trapezius, rhomboid, and latissimus dorsi muscles, along with most of the muscles along the side of the abdomen, to name a few. 
         [0005]    Thus, the present invention provides a methodology for ensuring 360 degrees of physical exercise and strengthening by providing a continuous and changing vector of resistance loading. Rather than having one degree of freedom (in the case of the bench press, for example), where the resistance force is always downward from the chest to the back, the present invention provides a force whose direction (vector) constantly changes in infinitesimally small angles to provide a second, and potentially a third, degree of freedom. The benefits of this functionality can range from better balance and posture to therapeutic benefits. For example, 360-degree strengthening of the neck area can help substantially with concussion related injuries, recovery, and prevention. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Thus, the present invention provides a machine and method for working not only those muscle groups that are addressed by traditional weight lifting, but instead addresses the full 360-degree core of the body in a continually varying motion, which results in a rotary force vector that works every muscle around the body. 
         [0007]    In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fitness machine, including: a frame structure; a spanning bar rotatably coupled to the frame structure, wherein the spanning bar selectively rotates about a central axis; a gripping bar coupled to the spanning bar; and a retention mechanism coupled to the spanning bar; wherein, when a user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism and the spanning bar is selectively rotated about the central axis, the user is also rotated about the central axis. Optionally, the spanning bar selectively rotates about the central axis by operation of an electric motor coupled to the spanning bar. Optionally, the spanning bar also selectively rotates about a secondary axis that is offset from the central axis. Optionally, the gripping bar is translatable along a length of the spanning bar. Optionally, the gripping bar is rotatable with respect to the spanning bar. Optionally, the fitness machine also includes a pair of rotatable hand grips coupled to the gripping bar by which the user selectively grasps the gripping bar. The spanning bar is disposed at an angle with respect to the frame structure such that a center of gravity of the user substantially coincides with the central axis when the user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism. 
         [0008]    In another exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fitness method, including: providing a frame structure; providing a spanning bar rotatably coupled to the frame structure, wherein the spanning bar selectively rotates about a central axis; providing a gripping bar coupled to the spanning bar; and providing a retention mechanism coupled to the spanning bar; wherein, when a user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism and the spanning bar is selectively rotated about the central axis, the user is also rotated about the central axis. Optionally, the spanning bar selectively rotates about the central axis by operation of an electric motor coupled to the spanning bar. Optionally, the spanning bar also selectively rotates about a secondary access that is offset from the central axis. Optionally, the gripping bar is translatable along a length of the spanning bar. Optionally, the gripping bar is rotatable with respect to the spanning bar. Optionally, the fitness method also includes providing a pair of rotatable hand grips coupled to the gripping bar by which the user selectively grasps the gripping bar. The spanning bar is disposed at an angle with respect to the frame structure such that a center of gravity of the user substantially coincides with the central axis when the user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]    The present invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to the various drawings, in which like reference numbers are used to denote like machine components/method steps, as appropriate, and in which: 
           [0010]      FIG. 1  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the motorized full-core fitness machine of the present invention, highlighting the rotation of a user from a push-up configuration to a pull-up configuration and back again; 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the continuously varying force vector generated by the full-core fitness machine of the present invention, again highlighting the rotation of the user from a push-up configuration to a pull-up configuration and back again; 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is another series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the motorized full-core fitness machine of the present invention, highlighting the optional use of an adjustable spanning bar and a translatable and/or rotatable gripping bar; 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the non-motorized full-core fitness machine of the present invention, highlighting the rotation of a user from a push-up configuration to a pull-up configuration and back again; 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of a multi-axis fitness machine of the present invention; 
           [0015]      FIG. 6  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the fitness machine of the present invention utilizing an auxiliary frame structure and assistive supports, such as springs or tension members; 
           [0016]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view illustrating one specific embodiment of the full-core fitness machine of the present invention; 
           [0017]      FIG. 8  is another perspective view illustrating one specific embodiment of the full-core fitness machine of the present invention; 
           [0018]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view illustrating another specific embodiment of the full-core fitness machine of the present invention; 
           [0019]      FIG. 10  is another perspective view illustrating another specific embodiment of the full-core fitness machine of the present invention; and 
           [0020]      FIG. 11  is a partial perspective view illustrating another specific embodiment of the full-core fitness machine of the present invention, highlighting the rotating hand grips thereof. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0021]    Again, the present invention provides a machine and method for working not only those muscle groups that are addressed by traditional weight lifting, but instead addresses the full 360-degree core of the body in a continually varying motion, which results in a rotary force vector that works every muscle around the body. 
         [0022]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 1 , the full-core fitness machine  10  includes a spanning bar  12  with an attached gripping bar  14 . The proximal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a vertical rotation bar  16 , and the distal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a foot retention mechanism  18 . A user places his or her feet securely in the foot retention mechanism  20  and grasps the gripping bar  14  with his or her hands, thereby placing the user in a push-up configuration, for example. A pair of rotation shafts  20  are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  and the foot retention mechanism  18  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about a rotational axis  22  of the machine  10 . In this exemplary embodiment, this rotational axis  22  is parallel, or nearly parallel, to the ground. The spanning bar  12  orients the user such that his or her general center of gravity is located about the rotational axis  22 , or the overall center of gravity (including both that of the rotational components and the user) is located about the rotational axis  22 . The pair of rotation shafts  20  couple the spanning bar  12  to a suitable frame structure  24 . An electric motor  26  and optional counterweight  28  are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about the rotational axis  22  in a smooth, controlled manner. In this configuration, the electric motor  26  rotates the spanning bar  12  slowly about the rotational axis  22  while the user attempts to hold position with his or her body. Initially, the user may be in a typical push-up configuration, facing downward. In this position, the user will exercise the triceps, chest, stomach, back of neck, and so on. As the user is rotated to the side, he or she begins using the triceps on the lower arm and biceps on the upper arm, as well as shoulder, back, side neck, and side abdomen. When upside down, in a pull-up configuration, the user uses the back, back shoulder, lower back, buttocks, and front neck. This is illustrated in the various positions of  FIG. 1 , showing one complete revolution of the user. The use of the machine of the present invention enables the balanced development of multiple muscle groups without changing machines. 
         [0023]      FIG. 2  is a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the continuously varying force vector generated by the full-core fitness machine  10  ( FIG. 1 ) of the present invention, again highlighting the rotation of the user from a push-up configuration to a pull-up configuration and back again. 
         [0024]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 3 , in another exemplary embodiment, the spanning bar  12  may be adjustable (in vertical displacement and/or slope) to lower or raise the gripping bar  14 , such that the “static” position of the user&#39;s arms changes, working the muscle group in a different range. Similarly, the gripping bar  14  can be rotated (when viewed from the top) to work yet another muscle group, and/or it can be shifted fore and aft to work yet another muscle group. 
         [0025]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 4 , in a further exemplary embodiment, the spanning bar  12  can be free-spinning (or slightly damped or otherwise controlled), rather than motorized, in such a way that when the user changes the position of his center of gravity from a neutral position, it instigates rotating movement. This movement provides more of a dynamic workout, while working the muscle groups through ranges of motion, rather than isometric (i.e., static) exercises. The user controls the rate of rotation by carefully controlling the position of his or her center of gravity. This element adds a degree of control necessary to operate the machine  10 , such that it does not rotate too quickly. Specifically,  FIG. 4  illustrates the user in a neutral position; instigating rotation with a raised center of gravity; and, once upside down, pulling himself or herself upward using the back muscles to again raise the center of gravity above the axis of rotation, thereby instigating or continuing rotational motion. 
         [0026]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 5 , in a still further exemplary embodiment, the frame structure  24  can be rotatably coupled to a suitable secondary frame structure  30  such that multiple rotating axes (providing multiple rotational orientations) may be imparted to the spanning bar  12  and user, thereby working more muscle groups in more directions. 
         [0027]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 6 , in a still further exemplary embodiment, an auxiliary frame structure  32  and assistive devices  34  can be added to aid the user in difficult orientations, or if the user is a novice. For example, springs are shown in  FIG. 6  to help to support the weight of the user when upside down, thereby assisting in a vertical push-up or the like. Side supports and/or other assistive devices may be added as well. 
         [0028]    Any of these configurations can be used in conjunction with weight belts to augment training in certain areas of the body. For example, weights may be added about the waist to strengthen core muscles (i.e., abs, back, and sides about the abdomen). A weighted headband may be used to augment neck strengthening in 360 degrees, an exercise that may be used to significantly reduce the risk of concussions, for example. 
         [0029]    The machine(s) of the present invention may be used not only for physical training and conditioning, but also for medical and physical therapy purposes. For example, concussions are known to be reduced through neck strengthening exercises. These devices can be used by athletes to reduce the likelihood of concussions. The use of assistive aids can help a patient gradually reach strength levels without the risk of dropping free weights, etc. 
         [0030]    Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , in more detail, the full-core fitness machine  10  includes a tubular-steel spanning bar  12  or the like with an attached tubular-steel gripping bar  14  or the like. The gripping bar  14  is translatable along a portion of the length of the spanning bar  12 , and is locked into place by means of a locking peg and series of holes  36  or the like. The proximal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a tubular-steel vertical rotation bar  16  or the like, and the distal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a foot retention mechanism  18 , such as a foot platform  38  and plurality of padded foot pegs  40  or the like. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other configurations can be used to perform the functions of these components equally. A user places his or her feet securely in the foot retention mechanism  20  and grasps the gripping bar  14  with his or her hands, thereby placing the user in a push-up configuration, for example. A pair of rotation shafts/bearings  20  or the like are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  and the foot retention mechanism  18  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about a rotational axis  22  of the machine  10 . In this exemplary embodiment, this rotational axis  22  is parallel, or nearly parallel, to the ground. The spanning bar  12  orients the user such that his or her general center of gravity is located about the rotational axis  22 , or the overall center of gravity (including both that of the rotational components and the user) is located about the rotational axis  22 . The pair of rotation shafts  20  couple the spanning bar  12  to a suitable frame structure  24 . In this exemplary embodiment, the frame structure  24  includes any combination of frame members  42  that are suitable for stably supporting the various components and user. The electric motor  26  ( FIG. 1 ) and optional counterweight  28  ( FIG. 1 ) are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about the rotational axis  22  is a smooth, controlled manner. In this configuration, the electric motor  26  rotates the spanning bar  12  slowly about the rotational axis  22  while the user attempts to hold position with his or her body. The electric motor  26  may be coupled to a gear  44  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like associated with the spanning bar  12  and/or the proximal rotation shaft  20  via a pulley  46  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like. Initially, the user may be in a typical push-up configuration, facing downward. In this position, the user will exercise the triceps, chest, stomach, back of neck, and so on. As the user is rotated to the side, he or she begins using the triceps on the lower arm and biceps on the upper arm, as well as shoulder, back, side neck, and side abdomen. When upside down, in a pull-up configuration, the user uses the back, back shoulder, lower back, buttocks, and front neck. Again, the use of the machine of the present invention enables the balanced development of multiple muscle groups without changing machines. 
         [0031]    Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 9-11 , in more alternative detail, the full-core fitness machine  10  includes a tubular-steel spanning bar  12  or the like with an attached tubular-steel gripping bar  14  or the like. The gripping bar  14  is translatable along a portion of the length of the spanning bar  12 , and is locked into place by means of a locking peg and series of holes  36  or the like. In this exemplary embodiment, the gripping bar  14  includes a plurality of members arranged in a diamond shape, to which rotating hand grips  50  are coupled. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other configurations can be used to perform the functions of these components equally. The proximal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a tubular-steel vertical rotation bar  16  or the like, and the distal end of the spanning bar  12  includes a foot retention mechanism  18 , such as a foot platform  38  and plurality of padded foot pegs  40  or the like. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other configurations can be used to perform the functions of these components equally. A user places his or her feet securely in the foot retention mechanism  20  and grasps the gripping bar  14  with his or her hands, thereby placing the user in a push-up configuration, for example. A pair of rotation shafts/bearings  20  or the like are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  and the foot retention mechanism  18  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about a rotational axis  22  of the machine  10 . In this exemplary embodiment, this rotational axis  22  is parallel, or nearly parallel, to the ground. The spanning bar  12  orients the user such that his or her general center of gravity is located about the rotational axis  22 , or the overall center of gravity (including both that of the rotational components and the user) is located about the rotational axis  22 . The pair of rotation shafts  20  couple the spanning bar  12  to a suitable frame structure  24 . In this exemplary embodiment, the frame structure  24  includes any combination of frame members  42  that are suitable for stably supporting the various components and user. The electric motor  26  ( FIG. 1 ) and optional counterweight  28  ( FIG. 1 ) are coupled to the vertical rotation bar  16  such that the spanning bar  12  and user can be rotated about the rotational axis  22  is a smooth, controlled manner. In this configuration, the electric motor  26  rotates the spanning bar  12  slowly about the rotational axis  22  while the user attempts to hold position with his or her body. The electric motor  26  may be coupled to a gear  44  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like associated with the spanning bar  12  and/or the proximal rotation shaft  20  via a pulley  46  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like. Initially, the user may be in a typical push-up configuration, facing downward. In this position, the user will exercise the triceps, chest, stomach, back of neck, and so on. As the user is rotated to the side, he or she begins using the triceps on the lower arm and biceps on the upper arm, as well as shoulder, back, side neck, and side abdomen. When upside down, in a pull-up configuration, the user uses the back, back shoulder, lower back, buttocks, and front neck. Again, the use of the machine of the present invention enables the balanced development of multiple muscle groups without changing machines. 
         [0032]    Although the present invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and/or achieve like results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, are contemplated thereby, and are intended to be covered by the following non-limiting claims.