Patent Publication Number: US-11045680-B2

Title: Free weight exercise swing attachment

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional No. 62/643,006, filed Mar. 14, 2018, which application is incorporated herein fully by this reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to an exercising apparatus. More specifically, the present invention is a free weight exercise swing attachment apparatus suitable for standard power racks and other equipment. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Current weight and cable machine equipment is forced into a fixed movement path that is dictated by the design of the machine. Free weight exercises are known to provide certain advantages for building athleticism and functional strength since they require more stabilization, coordination and balance. Functional strength is important for maintaining quality of life. Research continues to show a correlation between strength and morbidity rates among elderly populations. The free movement in all directions of free weights is also important for people working around old injuries. Machines that lock the user into a fixed movement path can aggravate pre-existing shoulder and back injuries because the lifter is forced into a path that does not fit their anatomy. 
     However, weight machines popularity is related to the convenience of them being easier to use for weight lifters since they require less control and are often pre-positioned in the desired starting and lifting positions so that the user can isolate certain muscle groups and not have to struggle to move the weight into the proper starting point. 
     Thus, a need exists for an improved device for building athleticism and functional strength. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the present invention solve the foregoing and other needs. In one embodiment, an exercise apparatus comprises two straps. Each strap has a first end and a length. The first end is configured to be received by a supporting structure. The strap also comprises a plurality of loops along the length where each loop is designed and configured to removably support a free weight. In one embodiment the strap is formed by a plurality of loops interlocking together. 
     In one embodiment the straps are attached to a support by adjustable steel pins. In one embodiment, the strap is flexible and is comprised of nylon. In one embodiment the free weight is a barbell. In one embodiment multiple weights can be inserted in multiple straps. 
     In certain embodiments users utilize the exercise apparatus to carry out exercises. In one embodiment, the user flexes the free weight utilizing their foot. In one embodiment the user moves the weight with their hand(s). In another embodiment, the user can strap the free weight around their waist with a belt and strap. 
     One advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that they provide a middle ground between free weights and the fixed movement nature of machines for weight lifting. Although embodiments of the present invention provide some control throughout the range of movement, they still can allow for complete movement in all directions and in all planes. 
     Embodiments of the present invention allow freedom of movement, and also provide a more convenient way of getting the weight load into the desired lifting position than conventional free weights. This is because the weight (e.g., barbell or dumbbell(s)) that are attached to the device can be pushed out to the desired starting position with much less effort and in a safer manner than picking free weights up off the floor. 
     Beyond the above-mentioned benefits, embodiments of the present invention also have the potential to provide unique exercises that are advantageous in the field of athletic performance training as it allows athletes to train strength and power development in a more horizontal direction (versus vertical) and in those body positions and angles that are required by the particular sport. Many free weight exercises are vertical in nature. Recent research has shown that horizontally directed ground force production development may be more efficacious to improving athletic speed and sport&#39;s performance. However, there are limited ways to overload muscles in this direction using traditional free weights available on the market. Some fixed machines do offer a horizontal movement direction, but because they force the lifter into a predetermined movement pattern they do not engage the important stabilizing muscles of the body. Many machines also are designed as open chained movements (feet off the ground or sitting). Both of these negatives have an impact on developing strength that translates into increased power and speed. The stabilizing muscles play an important part in transferring and preventing leakage of energy that it is generated from the athlete putting force into the ground and then transferring it up through the body to execute the movement required by the athletic endeavor. In light of this, ground force (feet into the ground) development appears to be a critical component. Embodiments of the present invention allow for many exercises that are free, closed, and horizontal in nature which offers a new exercise class to be developed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to like components. For the purposes of illustrating the system and method of the present application, there is shown in the drawings preferred embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the application is not limited to the precise arrangement, structures, features, embodiments, aspects, and systems shown, and the arrangements, structures, features, embodiments, aspects and systems shown may be used singularly or in combination with other arrangements, structures, features, embodiments, aspects and systems. 
       The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and are not in any way intended to limit the scope of this invention, but merely to illustrate embodiments of the invention. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention attached to a preexisting commercial power rack and to a commercial barbell. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention attached to a preexisting commercial power rack and to a commercial barbell. 
         FIG. 3  is a close up perspective view of a pin according to one embodiment of the present invention attached to a preexisting commercial power rack. 
         FIGS. 4-10  are perspective views of embodiments of the present invention being used in various exercises. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a modified barbell having a foot plate suitable for use with embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 12-13  are close up views of a foot plate according to one embodiment of the present invention in an open position. 
         FIG. 14  is a view of one embodiment of the present invention utilizing multiple barbells. 
         FIGS. 15-16  are close up views of loops and a strap according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAIL DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS 
     In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, and as shown herein, various systems and methods are disclosed which enhance a user&#39;s exercising experience using a unique and novel exercise device. 
     Embodiments of the present invention include a free-weight exercise swing attachment designed to be used with standard power racks and other supporting structures. Certain embodiments include one, two or more nylon tubular webbing free swing straps (or chains) having loops that are designed to be easily secured to a power rack with adjustable (releasable) steel pins or other attachment devices. Although described in terms of nylon it will be appreciated that other materials, such as rubber or rayon, for example, can be used. The webbing straps or chains serve as movable hinges that connect to barbells, dumbbells (e.g., in the case of a single strap), and other standard or non-standard free weight equipment and allow for numerous free-swinging weight lifting exercises to be performed. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention include nylon utility handles and/or a padded belt  106   a  that can connect to the weight load (e.g., barbell) via, for example, various nylon connector ropes or a foot plate that can connect to the weight load, in each case, that allows additional exercise movements to be performed. These exercises offer both a performance and economical advantage over current steel-based machine exercises and attachments. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 1-3 , a nylon tubular strap  100  having multiple attachment loops  101  is utilized to allow a user to perform various exercise routines and lift weights from a unique perspective. Loops  101 , which can be of a variety of sizes, shapes, quantity and location(s) along the length of the strap (e.g., one at the end, multiple spaced apart, etc.) are preferably designed so as to hold commercial barbells and other standard or non-standard free weights. The loops  101  may also be moveable or adjustable to allow various weight loads to be used for numerous upper and lower body exercises as can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     As can be seen more clearly in  FIGS. 15 and 16 , in a preferred embodiment, the strap  100  is formed by a series of interlocking (daisy-chained) loops  101 , with each loop  101  between about 3 and 6 inches and most preferably about 4 inches long. This spacing allows for easier insertion of the weights and proper balancing that permits enhanced exercise positions, although other sizes may be used. In some embodiments, a strap may have different sized loops. The length of strap  100  can vary as can be appreciated by one of skill in the art. In a preferred embodiment the length is between about 48 and 72 inches and most preferably about 60 inches. This allows the proper distancing for an average user and the ability to perform multiple exercises across varying planes, although other lengths may be used. Straps and loops may be formed in other ways. For example, strap  100  may be formed upon a continuous strip of tubular nylon onto which pieces of nylon are stitched to create the loops, e.g., as in  FIG. 2 . 
     In one embodiment, when utilized with a conventional barbell, two straps  100  are typically placed at a pre-arranged distance apart from each other so that a loop from each strap can hold or support each end of a barbell. Each strap  100  may be secured to a standing power rack  103  using a steel locking pin  104  (e.g., passing through one loop  101 , a metal loop secured to strap  100 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , etc.), which steel locking pin is of sufficient strength to maintain the fixed position of one end of the strap while at the same time supporting the necessary weight for the exercise. In different embodiments other locking mechanisms as are known in the art may be used as well together with or instead of locking pins  104 . Utilizing strap  100  and power rack  103  allows the user to maintain the balance and stability that standing power racks provide while providing extra flexibility that is usually only found as part of a free weight. In one embodiment, additional nylon connector cords  105  that can attach to one or more nylon rope handles  106 , and/or a belt  106   a  can be connected to the barbell so that the user can connect to the weight load at different exercising positions. As can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art these positions can include standing, sitting, kneeling, and lunging and can take place at various distances from the load. In one embodiment as can be seen in  FIG. 14 , multiple weights can be removably inserted into loops  101 . This permits a more equal (or different) distribution of weight allowing the user to strengthen muscles and perform additional exercises. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 11 , foot plate  107  can be connected to a barbell or other weight load so that a user can utilize his or her foot to thrust off or otherwise push the weight.  FIGS. 12 and 13  show foot plate  107  in an open position when disconnected from the weight. As can be seen in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the rear portion of foot plate  107  comprises a latching and locking mechanism that allows the foot plate  107  to be secured to the barbell or other weight load. Latch  1220  is configured to latch onto screw  125  which can then be secured with a nut and bolt mechanism as shown in  FIG. 13 . As can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, additional or alternative locking mechanisms can be utilized to secure foot plate  107  to the barbell or other weight load. In some embodiments, foot plate  107  is weld or integrally formed with the barbell. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 4-10 , strap  100  (here, two) can be utilized in various exercise and weight lifting positions. As can be appreciated by one ordinary skill in the art, the below discussed exercise and weight lifting routines are mere examples, and according to varying embodiments of the present invention, other exercises can be envisioned and carried out without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 4 , a user can use his hands to stabilize his body against the power rack while leaning forward and raising the barbell by pushing it or on the foot plate that is attached to it. In this embodiment strap  100  and the loops  101  are utilized to allow the lower positioning of the weight while still being connected to the stable power rack. As shown, optional rubber bands connected between the rack and barbell may be used for resistance. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 5 , a user can place the barbell weight under his arm while pushing off the power rack or (as shown) an angled plate on or near the floor. Strap  100  enables the mid-positioning of the weight to allow the user to exercise muscles employing a horizontal movement. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , users can lunge with a weight supported by straps, for example, between a position above their head to a position that is parallel or below his face utilizing straps  100 . Alternatively, they can pull on the weight without flexing in manner that strengthens their thigh and leg muscles. The flexibility and agility of straps  100  allows this positioning to enable increased positioning of the weights and flexing of muscles. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the straps  100  can alternately be secured to a chin-up bar. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 8 , two nylon rope handles  106  can be used by a user to pull weights from behind utilizing straps  100 . Loops  101  allow the user to position the weights at various heights to accommodate the posture and build of various users. Alternatively, various weights can be placed within the various loops  101  to increase and vary the size and position of the weights. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 9 , straps  100  can be used by a front facing user to pull the weight opposite his or her upper body. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, changing the user&#39;s location relative to the point at which the straps  100  are secured to the equipment changes the angle of raising and lowering the weight and thus use of muscles. Raising and lowering the weight at the angle shown allows for additional bodybuilding which combines the benefit of structured and free-standing weights. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 10  in one embodiment, straps  100  can be attached to the back of a user utilizing a vest or other attachment mechanism (or, to the user&#39;s waist via a belt) so that the user can use her body to extend forward without using her hands or feet. Such a movement allows additional flexing of mid-body muscles without putting stress on the hands or feet. 
     It should be understood that those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize modifications and substitutions may be made to various elements of the present invention. For example, various features and/or elements have been described in connection with the preferred embodiments, which have not been described in another preferred embodiment. Various modifications of the invention in addition to those described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description and the accompanying figures. It is envisioned that these features and/or elements are interchangeable such that a feature or element described in one embodiment may be used in combination with another embodiment. Functionality may also be, in whole or in part, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or to become known. It will be further appreciated by those skilled in the art that the figures are purely illustrative, and that the system may be implemented in any number of ways, as long as the functionality as described above, stays intact. 
     It should be noted that references herein to phrases such as “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The phrases such as “in one embodiment” or “in certain embodiments” in various places in the specification are not necessarily, but can be, referring to the same embodiment. Use of the term “preferred” or “preferably” is intended to indicate a configuration, set-up, feature, process, or alternative that may be perceived by the inventor(s) hereof, as of the filing date, to constitute the best, or at least a better, alternative to other such configurations, set-ups, features, processes, or alternatives. In no way shall the use of the term “preferred” or “preferably” be deemed to limit the scope of the claims hereof to any particular configuration, set-up, feature, process, or alternative. 
     Furthermore, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the present description, including those of the provisional patent applications referred to herein. While there have been shown and described fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to the exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood that omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the disclosed invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.