Patent Publication Number: US-6908417-B2

Title: Exercise apparatus

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION DATA 
   This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/492,504, filed Jan. 27, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,558,301. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   In recent years, the number of individuals who have undertaken exercise regimens has grown tremendously. Each person has their own desires when it comes to when and where to exercise, and the type and number of exercises in which they wish to engage. Gyms provide large numbers of individuals with a wide range of exercise devices. Some people, however, wish to exercise at home or the office, by personal preference or constraints such as time or location. Individuals may have a limited budget and space for exercise equipment at home. As described below, current exercise equipment does not meet the differing goals and preferences of users. 
   Currently, a large variety of exercise equipment is available. This equipment ranges from simple steps, mats and free weights, to large and complex machinery that may be computer controlled, such as treadmills, rowing and stepping machines. Most individuals are limited in the number and type of exercise devices they may own, generally as a result of the cost of such equipment and the space necessary to store and use the equipment. Even gyms must be conscious of the space required by each piece of equipment or the number of devices which the gym may provide to its users may be unduly limiting. Thus, it is a desire to provide an exercise apparatus which may be conveniently stored and which is affordable to the home/office user. 
   Individuals commonly employ an exercise regimen where they work out at home or the gym one or more times per week. These individuals generally find it desirable to maintain their regimen when traveling, such as when on a business trip or vacation. Further, as noted above, some individuals do not wish to work out in a gym on all occasions or ever, but prefer to work out at home or work. For these reasons, it is desirable to provide exercise equipment which is portable and easy to store. 
   In addition to the foregoing, it is important to note that most individuals wish to engage in multiple exercises. For example, large numbers of individuals enjoy “step” exercises. These exercises involve stepping on and off a raised platform. These exercises are known for their cardiovascular benefits and work-out of the legs. In addition, the same individuals may wish to engage in strength and flexibility training involving other portions of the body, such as the arms, chest and shoulders. For example, bicep curls, rowing, overhead presses and similar exercises are all well known for exercising various specific portions of the body. 
   Present exercise equipment is deficient in addressing the above-stated problems and preferences. For example, large multi-station weight machines provide a user with the opportunity to perform a large number of exercises. On the other hand, these machines are not transportable, and are generally large and expensive. Simple “steps” are available (including those which may be raised and lowered). These devices are easy to transport and relatively inexpensive, but afford the user very few exercises. 
   As a result of the above-stated problems and desires, there is a need for an exercise device which is both compact and portable. In addition, however, it is desirable for the device to permit a wide range of exercises. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention comprises an exercise apparatus, one or more methods of using the apparatus, and one or more methods of exercising with the apparatus. 
   In one or more embodiments, the exercise apparatus comprises an exercise platform comprising a base and a lid, the platform defining an interior space accessible by moving the lid from a closed to an open position with respect to the base, at least one handle associated with the platform for use by a user in moving the exercise apparatus, at least one wheel movably mounted to the base and permitting the platform to be rolled along a surface, at least one riser for use in supporting the platform upon a surface to increase a height thereof and sized to fit within the interior space when not in use, at least one resistive element for selective attachment to the platform for use in an exercise by a user, at least one mount associated with the platform to which the at least one resistive element may be attached, and at least one hand/foot peg for use with the platform. 
   In one or more embodiments, the mounts comprise aligned slots in the walls and lid and a pin extending across the portion of the slot in the wall. The resistive elements may comprise elastic elements having a hook at one end for coupling to the pin of a mount. 
   In one or more embodiments, the lid is hingedly mounted to the platform. One or more latches are provided for maintaining the lid in a closed position when a user is exercising. 
   One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method of using the exercise apparatus. These methods include methods of transporting and arranging the apparatus for use. 
   One or more embodiments of the invention comprise methods of exercising using the apparatus. These methods include using the apparatus as an exercise platform/step and using the hand/foot pegs and resistive element(s) coupled to the platform in a variety of exercises. 
   Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures. 

   
     DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the exercise apparatus illustrated in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the exercise apparatus as in  FIG. 1  with a lid thereof in an open position; and 
       FIG. 4  is a bottom perspective view the exercise apparatus illustrated in FIG.  1 . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention is an exercise apparatus. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , an exercise apparatus  20  of the present invention will be described generally. As illustrated, the exercise apparatus  20  comprises an exercise platform  22 . The platform  22  generally has the form of a box having a base  24  and a lid  26 , and defines an open interior (see FIG.  3 ). The exercise platform  22  is arranged to permit a wide range of exercises both alone and with a variety of accessories. As illustrated, such accessories may include one or more resistive elements  28 , one or more hand/foot pegs  30 , and one or more risers  32 . 
   The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to FIG.  2 . As illustrated therein, the base  24  is generally rectangular in shape. The base  24  has a generally flat bottom surface  34 . First, second, third and fourth walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  extend upwardly from the bottom surface  34 . In the arrangement where the base  24  is generally rectangular in shape, one pair of opposing walls or ends (as illustrated, the first and second walls  36 , 38 ) are shorter than the other pair of opposing walls or sides (as illustrated, the third and fourth walls  40 , 42 ). In one or more embodiments, the platform  22  is about 40 inches long from end to end (i.e. wall  36  to wall  38 ) and about 15 inches wide from side to side (i.e. wall  40  to wall  42 ), and about 4 inches deep as measured from the top of the walls to the top or inside of the bottom surface  34 . Of course, the size and shape of the platform  22  may vary from that described. 
   The lid  26  is arranged to mate with the walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  and generally cooperate with the base  24  to form an interior space  44 . As illustrated, the lid  26  has the same general shape as the base  24 , in this embodiment, rectangular. 
   The base  24  and lid  26  may be constructed from a wide variety of materials, such as plastic or wood. It will be appreciated that while the walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  are described independently for reference, the walls may comprise a single structural element, such as when the base  24  is molded. 
   In one or more embodiments, means are provided for selectively moving the lid  26  with respect to the base  24  so as to open or close the platform  22  and provide access to the interior space  44 . Preferably, this means comprises a pair of hinges  46  (see also FIG.  4 ). Each hinge  46  is attached to the lid  26  and the base  26 . As described in more detail below, the hinges  46  permit rotation of the lid  26  about an axis extending parallel to the fourth wall  42  of the base  24 . In a first open or raised position of the lid  22 , access is permitted to the interior  44  of the platform  22 . In a second closed or lowered position of the lid  22 , the interior space  44  is enclosed. As illustrated, the hinges  46  are spaced apart along the fourth wall  42 . 
   Preferably, means are provided for, at one or more times, retaining the lid  26  in its second, closed or lowered position. In one or more embodiments, this means comprises a pair of latches  48 . Each latch  48  comprises a moveable catch  50  connected to the lid  22  and a post  52  connected to or extending from the base  24 . 
   Those of skill in the art will appreciate that a variety of other means may be provided for associating the lid  26  with the base  24 . For example, the lid  26  may be connected to the base  24  by providing a rod connected to the lid which engages one or more sleeves, permitting rotation of the rod with respect to the sleeves. If constructed of plastic, the lid  26  may be connected to the base  24  by a thin web of material which is sufficiently flexible to permit the lid  26  to be raised and lowered with respect to the base  24 . 
   The lid  26  need not be rotatably connected to the base  24 . For example, the lid  26  may be arranged to rest upon the base  24 , such as by including a slot in a bottom surface thereof into which a top portion of each of the walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  may extend when the lid  26  is placed thereon. In such an arrangement, the lid  26  may be removed by lifting it off of the base  24 . 
   Those of skill in the art will also appreciate the numerous means by which the lid  26  may be secured to the base  24 . Instead of, or in addition to the latches  48 , hooks, straps with hook and loop fastener material, or snaps or the like may be arranged to selectively engage the base  24  to maintain the lid  26  secured thereto. The lid  26  may include on its bottom surface a slot for accepting the base  22  or have an outwardly extending section for positioning within the walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42 , whereby the lid  26  may be press-fit into engagement with the base  24 . 
   In one or more embodiments, a pad  54  is provided on a top surface  56  of the lid  22 . The pad  54  may be of a variety of types, such as an element having durable outer polymer surface with a foam interior. In one or more embodiments, the top surface  56  of the lid  22  has a recessed or inset area  58  for accepting a portion of the pad  54 . Preferably, the pad  54  covers a substantial portion of the top surface  56  of the lid  22 . As illustrated, the pad  54  is generally rectangular, covering all but a narrow perimeter section of the lid  22 . The pad  54  may have a variety of thicknesses and may be connected to the lid  22  in a variety of fashions. In one or more embodiments, the pad  54  may be selectively removable from the lid  26  for washing, replacement or the like. 
   In one or more embodiments, means are provided for rollably supporting at least a portion of the platform  22 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , in a preferred embodiment, the means comprises first and second wheels  60 , 62 . As illustrated, the wheels  60 , 62  are positioned near the intersection of the first wall  36  and the bottom surface  34  of the base  24 . In order to reduce the distance by which the wheels  60 , 62  extend from the base  24 , and to provide a convenient mounting, each wheel  60 , 62  is inset into a slot  66  extending into the bottom surface  34  and first wall  36 . The wheels  60 , 62  are spaced apart and located near the outer ends of the wall  36  for stability purposes. 
   In one or more embodiments, each wheel  60 , 62  is mounted on an axle (not shown) which is, in turn, mounted to the base  24 . As will be appreciated, the wheels  60 , 62  may be mounted for rotation with respect to their axles and the axles securely connected to the base  24 , the wheels  60 , 62  securely connected to their axles and the axles mounted for rotation with respect to the base  24 , or the wheels  60 , 62  may be mounted for rotation with respect to their axles and the axles mounted for rotation with respect to the base  24 . In any such arrangement, the wheels  60 , 62  are permitted to rotate with respect to the base  24 , permitting a user to roll the platform  22  over a variety of surfaces. 
   It is preferred that the wheels  60 , 62  are mounted so that when the bottom  34  of the platform  22  is resting on a surface, the wheels  60 , 62  do not engage the surface or do not raise the platform  22  substantially off of the surface. This configuration aids in maintaining the platform  22  in a fixed position when in use. As illustrated, this configuration is achieved by positioning the wheels  60 , 62  substantially in the wall  36  and not the base. By having the wheels  60 , 62  protrude from the wall  36 , a user may still roll the platform  22  by raising one end (at wall  38 ) upwardly so that the wheels  60 , 62  rotate into engagement with a surface. 
   The wheels  60 , 62  may be constructed from a wide variety of materials, such as plastic, rubber, steel or the like. The size of the wheels  60 , 62  may vary. Preferably, the wheels are relatively small so as to not increase the size or weight of the platform  22  unduly. In one or more embodiments, the wheels  60 , 62  have a diameter of approximately 1.25 inches and a width of approximately 0.75 inches. 
   In one or more embodiments, at least one handle is provided to aid a user in transporting the exercise device  20 . As illustrated, two handles are provided. A first handle  68  is provided in the third wall  40  (i.e. the wall opposite the wall  42  to which the lid  26  is hinged). The first handle  68  comprises a generally oval cut-out or cut-away section of the third wall  40 . 
   A second handle  70  is preferably provided opposite the side or wall with which the wheels  64 , 66  are associated. In the arrangement illustrated, since the wheels  64 , 66  are associated with the first wall  36 , the second handle  70  is provided on the second, opposing wall  38 . The second handle  70  comprises a generally oval cut-out or cut-away section of the second wall  38 . 
   Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the handles  68 , 70  may take other forms. For example, each handle  68 , 70  may comprise an element which extends outwardly from the base  24 . The handles  68 , 70  may be formed integrally with the base  24  or be connected thereto. Each handle  68 , 70  may comprise an element which is extendable from the base  24 , such as in the case of a pop-out or flip-out handle. A handle may be provided on as few as one of the sides or walls of the base  24 , or on all of them, and not just the two illustrated and described above. 
   The platform  22  includes at least one attachment point or mount for an exercise accessory. As illustrated, the platform  22  includes a plurality of such attachments points. Each attachment point preferably comprises a pin  72 . Each pin  72  spans a slot  74  which extends downwardly from a top surface of a particular wall  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  of the base  24 . As illustrated, one attachment point is provided approximately midway along the first wall  36  between the third and fourth walls  42 , 44 . One attachment point is provided approximately midway along the second wall  38  between the third and fourth walls  42 , 44 . Three attachment points are generally equidistantly provided along the third and fourth walls  42 , 44 . 
   Each slot  74  generally comprises a rectangular cut-out of the respective wall  36 , 38 , 40 , 42 , extending downwardly into the wall from a top surface thereof. A pin  72  extends or spans each slot  74  in a direction parallel to the wall  36 , 38 , 40 , 42 . The pins  72  may comprise a wide variety of elements. In one or more embodiments, each pin  72  comprises a metal rod. The pins  72  may be constructed from wood, plastic or other durable and strong materials. 
   To facilitate easy access to the pins  72  and to permit use of a resistive or other element connected thereto (as described in more detail below), a slot  76  is provided in the lid  26  corresponding to each slot  74  in the walls of the base  24 . As illustrated, each slot  76  preferably comprises a recessed or cut-away area of the lid  26 . 
   The number and location of the mounts may vary from those illustrated. In addition, other mounts may be provided, such as mounts on the lid  26  or other portions of the base  24 . The manner of connection of the resistive element(s)  28  may be accomplished with other means than pins  72 , such as hooks, eyes and other elements. 
   To facilitate additional accessories, as described in more detail below, first and second passages  78 , 80  are provided through the base  24 . As illustrated, the passages  78 , 80  are positioned in opposing walls of the base  24 . Preferably, the passages  78 , 80  are aligned along a common axis and positioned in the third and fourth  40 , 42  walls. Each passage  78 , 80  comprises a generally circular bore provided through its respective wall  40 , 42 . 
   The passages  78 , 80  may be located in other areas in the base  24 . In addition, more than one set of passages may be provided. 
   In accordance with the present invention, the exercise apparatus  20  comprises one or more accessories in addition to the platform  22 . Referring to  FIG. 2 , the exercise apparatus  20  comprises one or more risers  32 . As illustrated, there are two risers  32 . Each riser  32  comprises a generally square, box-shaped support. In one or more embodiments, each riser  32  is generally hollow (see FIG.  3 ), having a top surface  82  and a perimeter wall  84  extending downwardly therefrom. Preferably, the top surface  82  of each riser  32  is generally planar for accepting the bottom  34  of the platform  22 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 3 , in one or more embodiments, the bottom of the bottom surface  34  of the base  24  has a pair of inset or recessed areas sized to accept the risers  32 . In this fashion, when the platform  22  is placed on the risers  32  an interlocking effect is achieved and it is less likely that the base  24  will move off of the risers  32  (such as in a sliding motion). In one or more embodiments, the recessed areas are inset into the bottom surface  34  by approximately 0.5 inches. 
   Preferably, the risers  32  are sized (considering their height, width and length) so that they both may be conveniently stored in the hollow interior  44  of the platform  22  when the lid  26  is closed. In one or more embodiments, each riser  32  is about 4 inches high, and has a width of about 10.5 inches (in use parallel to walls  40 , 42 ) and a depth of about 8.5 inches (in use parallel to walls  36 , 38 ). 
   It is noted that a single riser  32  or multiple risers may be provided instead of the two risers  32  described and illustrated. For example, a single large riser  32  may be used. Several risers  32  may be arranged to “nest” within one another when stored, and be arranged to stack when in use. The risers  32  may have a variety of configurations other than square. 
   In one or more embodiments, a variety of other means may be used to selectively raise and lower the platform  22 . Preferably, however, such means does not contribute to an increase in the size of the platform  22  when the means is not in use. In other words, as with the risers  32 , it is preferred that the means fit within or not increase the size of the platform  22  as designed for its normal exercise use. The means may comprise one or more feet or legs which extend, fold or rotate out of the platform  22 . The means may comprise a platform or box which is nearly the same size as the base  24  and which when placed upside-down therein (open size up) reduces the size of the interior  44  by only the width of the peripheral wall forming the box. 
   In one or more embodiments, the exercise apparatus  20  includes at least one hand/foot peg  30 . Preferably, the exercise apparatus  20  includes two pegs  30 . As illustrated, each peg  30  comprises a rod-shaped element. A first portion  86  of each peg  30  preferably has a smaller exterior dimension (in this case, diameter) than a second portion  88 . The first portion  86  is sized to fit within one of the passages  80  formed in the platform  22 . The increased size of the second portion  88  serves as a stop to prevent over-insertion of the peg  30  into the passage  30 . 
   The pegs  30  may be constructed from a wide variety of materials such as wood or plastic. In one or more embodiments, each peg  30  is about 9 inches long, with the first portion  86  being about 3 inches long. In an embodiment where the platform  22  includes multiple passages, additional foot/hand pegs  30  may be provided. 
   Preferably, a sleeve  90  is provided in association with the pegs  30 . As illustrated, the sleeve  90  is a tubular element having a hollow interior. The sleeve  90  has an outer diameter sized to permit insertion of the sleeve  90  into the passages  80 . The sleeve  90  has a length such that it will span the interior  44  of the platform  22  from passage to passage  80 . Preferably, each peg  30  is inserted both through the passage  80  and into the sleeve  90 . 
   In one or more embodiments, a detent (not shown) may be formed near each end of the sleeve  90  for acceptance of a projection (not shown) provided on each peg  30 . Such a projection preferably is small enough not to prevent insertion of the peg  30  into the sleeve  90 , but is arranged to engage one of the detents, providing some locking effect and an indication to the user of the proper engagement of the peg  30  with the sleeve  90 , and securing the peg  30  in place (such as during exercise) except against a high withdrawal force. 
   The foot/hand pegs  30  may be arranged in a wide variety of other fashions. For example, the pegs may comprise members which fold/swivel outwardly from the base  24 . The pegs  30  also need not be round, especially the first portion  86 . For example, the first portion  86  of each peg  30  may be triangular or square. In such event, the corresponding passage  78 , 80  is preferably also similarly shaped. Such a peg  30  may be used when it is desired to prevent the rotation of the peg with respect to the passage. A single elongate peg  30  may be provided and arranged to extend entirely through the base  24 . 
   In one or more embodiments, the exercise apparatus  20  includes at least one resistive element  28 . Preferably, the resistive element  28  comprises an elastic, rubber or similar element which may be stretched or extended, and when stretched or extended, generates a biasing force. The resistive element  28  may include multiple strands or bands associated with one another as well. Such elements are well known in the art of exercise equipment. 
   Preferably, a handle  92  is located at a first end of the resistive element  28 . As illustrated, the handle  92  has a gripping portion  94  and a connecting portion  96 , the connecting portion  96  connected to the elastic band or other element forming the resistive portion of the element  28 . 
   Means are provided for attaching the resistive element  28  to the platform  22 . In one or more embodiment, this means comprises a hook  98  positioned at the end of the resistive element  28  opposite the handle  92 . The hook  98  is adapted to receive one of the pins  72  of the platform  22 . In one embodiment, the hook  98  includes a hook portion  100  and a latch member  102 . The hook portion  100  is generally “J”-shaped. The latch member  102  is attached at one end to a top portion of the hook portion  100 . A second end of the latch member  102  is permitted to freely move with respect to the hook portion  100 , but biased into a position such that the latch member  102 , along with the hook portion  100 , forms a generally closed element. In this arrangement, the latch member  102  may be deflected inwardly to permit passage of the hook  98  over the pin  72 , but will generally not deflect the opposite direction, retaining the lock  98  securely connected to the pin  72 . 
   In one or more embodiments, a similar hook  99  is provided at an opposing end of the restive element  28  for selective connection to the handle  96  and other accessories such as an exercise bar  104 . Of course, the position of the resistive element  28  may be reversed, as the hooks  98 , 99  at either end of the resistive element  28  may be connected to either the platform  22  or an accessory. 
   As illustrated, the exercise bar  104  comprises an elongate rod or similar item. In one or more embodiments, the bar  104  has a central core  106  made of steel, plastic or a similar strong and durable material. The bar  104  includes a pad  108  comprising a coating or sleeve over all or a portion of the core  106 . In one or more embodiments, a ring  110  or similar element for connection of one of the hooks  98 , 104  is located at each end of the bar. The bar  104  may have a variety of lengths and configurations. For example, the bar  104  need not be straight, but may include one or more bends as is known in “curl”-bars. Preferably, the bar  104  has a length which permits it to be stored within the interior  44  of the platform  22 , such as slightly less than about 3 feet long. 
   One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method of using the exercise apparatus  20  of the present invention. A user may store a variety of items in the interior  44  of the platform  22  for storage. These items include the “accessories” described above (resistive elements  28 , pegs  30 , risers  32 , bar  104 ), and other items such as exercise clothing, towels and the like. These items may be securely stored by latching the latches  48 , securing the lid  26  to the base  24  and enclosing them in the interior  44  of the platform  22 . 
   When the lid  26  is closed, a user may conveniently transport the exercise apparatus  20 . First, a user may roll the apparatus  20  over a surface. A user may pull the apparatus  20  by gripping the handle  70  at the end of the base  24  opposite the wheels  60 , 62  and rolling the apparatus  20  on the wheels  60 , 62 . 
   A user may transport the exercise apparatus  20  by carrying it as well. The user may grip either handle  68 , 70  to lift and carry the apparatus  20 . 
   When at a particular location, the user may use the exercise apparatus  20  in a variety of manners, as described in detail below. In general, the user may remove the accessories from the platform  22  for use therewith. The user unlatches the latches  48  to release the lid  26 , and then rotates the lid to an open position to access the interior portion  44 . 
   The user may insert each peg  30  into a respective one of the passages  78 , 80 . The user presses the smaller first portion  86  of each peg  30  into its respective passage  78 , 80  and a portion of the sleeve  90 . The peg  30  is securely inserted when the larger, second portion  88  of the peg  30  abuts the base  24 . 
   A user may connect the resistive element(s)  28  to the platform  22 . The user presses the hook  98  into engagement with one of the pins  72 . 
   If the user desires to raise the level of the platform  22 , the user may remove the risers  32  and place them under the platform  22 . When the base  24  includes recessed areas therein, the base  24  is aligned with the risers  32  so as to engage the risers  32 . 
   When exercising, it is desirable for the user to re-latch the lid  26  to the base  24 . This prevents the lid  26  from opening during use of the apparatus  20 . 
   Of course, when the user has completed exercising, the user may re-stow all of the accessories and other items in the interior  44  of the platform  22  for storage and/or transport. 
   One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method of exercising using the exercise apparatus  20  of the present invention. First, a user may use the platform  22  as a step in a step exercise. In this type of exercise, the user steps up and down onto and off of the platform  22 . Such exercises are well known. 
   In order to increase the difficulty of the exercise, the height of the platform  22  may be raised. A user may remove the risers  32  from the interior  44  of the platform  22  and place the platform  22  on the risers. This raises the top surface  56  of the lid  26  farther above the surrounding surfaces. 
   A user may perform a variety of exercises on the platform  22 . For example, a user may rest their back upon the pad  54  on the platform  22  and perform sit-ups, crunches or similar exercises. A user may also rest their back on a surrounding surface and rest their feet/legs upon the raised platform  22  when performing similar exercises. 
   The user may perform a wide variety of exercises with one or more resistive elements  28 , which generate an exercise biasing or resistive force when stretched. The resistive elements  28  may be connected to the platform  22  in a variety of positions and in a variety of combined configurations to accommodate most common exercises. Such exercises include shoulder presses (pressing the arms overhead while gripping the resistive elements), lateral raises (extending the arms from a down to horizontally extending position while gripping the resistive elements), leg lunges (lunging on an off the platform while gripping the resistive elements), calf extensions (raising and lowering the body at the toes while gripping the resistive elements), curls (curling the arms while gripping the resistive elements), tricep extensions (extending the arms while gripping the resistive elements), adduct and abduct leg exercises (extending a leg outwardly or across the other leg with the resistive element connected thereto). 
   A user may perform exercises with the resistive elements  28  coupled to each end of the bar  104  and the platform  22 . Such exercises include squats and presses. 
   Of course, a variety of exercises may be performed with only one resistive element  28 . For example, a user may perform a single arm bicep curl with just one resistive element  28  (as opposed to exercising both arms at the same time). In addition, in some exercises, multiple resistive elements  28  may be used together. For example, a user may perform a single arm bicep curl with two or more resistive elements. 
   In one or more embodiments, a user may engage in exercises including use of the foot/hand pegs  30 . A user may perform a rowing exercise by sitting on the platform  22 , placing their feet on the pegs  30  gripping and extending the resistive elements  28  in a rearward direction. A user may perform hamstring exercises by laying stomach-down on the platform  22 , gripping the pegs  30  with the hands, hooking the resistive elements  28  to the feet and extending the elements  28  by flexing the leg at the knee. A user may perform leg kick-backs by placing on knee on the platform  22  and gripping the pegs  30  with the hands while retracting and extending the other leg. 
   The exercise apparatus  20  of the present invention has numerous advantages over the prior art. One advantage of the exercise apparatus  20  is that, despite its compactness and portability, the exercise apparatus  20  permits a user to engage in a wide variety of exercises. 
   It is noted that the arrangement and location of the mounts has a number of advantages. When a resistive element  28  is connected to a mount, it may be extended outwardly generally horizontally from the platform  22 . On the other hand, the resistive element  28  may also be extended generally vertically above the lid  26 . The aligned slot  76  in the lid  26  permits this orientation. At the same time, the resistive element  28  is securely connected to a portion of the sturdy and non-moving base  24 . 
   The slots  76  in the lid  26  also provide an aligning and position maintaining function. When a resistive element  28  is connected to a mount and extends through the slot  76 , the resistive element  28  is maintained in a fixed position and not permitted to move along the length (either along a side or end) platform  22 . This is a benefit to the user, who when exercising can focus upon the exercise and not upon maintaining the equipment in fixed position to accomplish the exercise. 
   The location of the mounts along the walls  36 , 38 , 40 , 42  of the base  24  also permits maximum separation of the resistive elements  28  when connected thereto (such as when connected at opposing ends or sides of the platform  22 ) for exercises when a wide separation is desired, such as extended arm raises and the like. Thus, the platform  22  can be made smaller than when if the attachment points were provided in other configurations, such as on the lid  26 . 
   The exercise apparatus  20  is particularly portable. It is relatively small, and includes handles and wheels for transport. Accessories and other equipment may be conveniently stored within the apparatus  20 . The exercise apparatus  20  can be easily moved around for use and storage at home or in the office (such as when used in a room and stored in a closet). The exercise apparatus  20  can be placed in a car or transported as baggage on a plane/train when traveling. 
   The exercise apparatus  20  is compact. The exercise apparatus  20  does not take up a large amount of space, which is desirable for home and office use. The apparatus  20  may be stored in an upright (i.e. on end/wall  36 / 38 ), in which case its “footprint” is very small. 
   It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.