Patent Publication Number: US-7914424-B1

Title: Methods and apparatus for supporting selectorized dumbbells

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/633,043, filed Aug. 1, 2003 (U.S. Pat. No. 7,367,927), which in turn, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/212,833, filed Aug. 5, 2002 (U.S. Pat. No. 7,156,782). 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The subject invention relates to exercise methods and apparatus, and more specifically, to methods and apparatus for supporting selectorized dumbbells. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Many different types of exercise equipment are known in the art. One popular form of equipment is the exercise dumbbell, which is typically designed with one or more weights disposed at each end of a handle. Relatively more advanced dumbbell systems provide a plurality of weights in alignment with the handle and configured to be selectively connected to the handle without requiring the user to handle the weights. Examples of such systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,822,034 to Shields; U.S. Pat. No. 4,284,463 to Shields; U.S. Pat. No. 5,637,064 to Olson et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,769,762 to Towley, III et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,997 to Roth et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,350 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,442 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,481 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,666 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,416,446 to Krull; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,979 to Krull. An object of the present invention is to provide methods and apparatus for supporting these sorts of dumbbell assemblies in user friendly fashion, and/or for supporting the weight plates that remain behind when the handles are lifted from the dumbbell assemblies. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention may be described in terms of methods and apparatus for supporting for selectorized dumbbells. The apparatus may be described in terms of a frame adapted to rest on a floor surface; a first dumbbell assembly and a second dumbbell assembly, wherein each said dumbbell assembly includes a handle that defines a longitudinal axis, and a set of weights configured for connection to the handle; a first base or weight support and a second base or weight support, wherein each said weight support is configured to support a respective set of weights in axial alignment with one another and a respective handle, and each weight support is movably mounted on the frame for movement between respective first and second positions. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, the weight supports move relative to the frame to remain upright in each of the positions as the frame is adjusted between two different orientations relative to an underlying floor surface. According to another aspect of the present invention, the weight supports are pivotally connected to the frame for pivoting about a horizontal axis in a manner that maintains the weight supports in an upright orientation in each of the positions. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a body supporting platform is mounted on the frame, and the weight supports pivot about a horizontal axis relative to the platform to move between the first and second positions. According to still another aspect of the present invention, a body supporting platform is mounted on the frame, and the weight supports move between respective first positions underlying the platform, and respective second positions out from under the platform. 
     The methods of the present invention may be described in terms of providing a frame adapted to rest on a floor surface; providing a first dumbbell assembly and a second dumbbell assembly, wherein each said dumbbell assembly includes a handle that defines a longitudinal axis; a set of weights configured for connection to the handle; and a base or weight support configured to support a respective set of weights in alignment with the handle. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, additional method steps include pivotally mounting the weight supports on the frame, and constraining the weight supports to pivot together about a horizontal axis relative to the frame. This method may be implemented to keep the weight supports in an orientation upright relative to the frame. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention, additional method steps include movably mounting the weight supports on the frame, and maneuvering the frame between a first, relatively high profile orientation relative to the floor surface, and a second, relatively low profile orientation relative to the floor surface. This method may further include the step of mounting body supporting platforms on the frame in such a manner that a respective platform is available for use in each said orientation of the frame. 
     According to yet another aspect of the present invention, additional method steps include mounting a body supporting platform on the frame, pivotally mounting the weight supports on the frame, and selectively pivoting the weight supports between respective storage positions beneath the body supporting platform, and respective operative positions out from under the body supporting platform. This method may be implemented by pivoting the weight supports about a horizontal axis relative to the frame, and/or in a manner that maintains the weight supports in respective, upright orientations. 
     In still another respect, the present invention may be described in terms of converting an exercise bench into a weight cart and/or for converting a weight cart into an exercise bench. In a first configuration, a bench member extends upward from a weight container, and an upper end of the bench member is within arm&#39;s reach for tilting and maneuvering the apparatus with the assistance of wheels on the container and/or the bench member. In a second configuration, the bench member occupies a horizontal orientation suitable for supporting a person in a supine position. Recognizing that the wheels may be locked against rotation or eliminated from the apparatus, the present invention may also be described in terms of an exercise bench that moves between operative and inoperative positions relative to weight supports. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the present invention is applicable to other types of body supporting equipment, including aerobic steps, for example. Additional features and/or advantages of the present invention may become apparent from the more detailed description that follows. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING 
       With reference to the Figures of the Drawing, wherein like numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views, 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a first exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container, an exercise bench, and an aerobic step interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded side view of the system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3   a  is a side view of the exercise bench of  FIG. 1  in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 3   b  is a side view of the weight container of  FIG. 1  in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 3   c  is a side view of the aerobic step of  FIG. 1  in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 4   a  is a top view of the exercise bench of  FIG. 3   a;    
         FIG. 4   b  is a top view of the weight container of  FIG. 3   b;    
         FIG. 4   c  is a top view of the aerobic step of  FIG. 3   c;    
         FIG. 5  is a side view of a second exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an exercise bench interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded side view of the system of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the weight container and exercise bench of  FIG. 5  interconnected in an exercise configuration; 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of a third exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an exercise bench interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded side view of the system of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of the weight container and the exercise bench in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 11  is a side view of a fourth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an exercise bench interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 12  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 11  in a state of transformation; 
         FIG. 13  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 11  with the weight container and the exercise bench interconnected in an exercise configuration; 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of a fifth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an exercise bench which are interconnected and shown in a storage configuration; 
         FIG. 15  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 14  in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 14  in an exercise configuration; 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of a sixth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an exercise bench interconnected in an exercise configuration; 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 17  with the weight container and the exercise bench interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 19  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 17  modified to provide a dumbbell support and a two-piece bench; 
         FIG. 20  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 17  modified to provide a two-piece bench which is selectively inclined; 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of a seventh exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and including a weight container and an aerobic step interconnected in a transport configuration; 
         FIG. 22  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 21  with the aerobic step in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 21  with the weight container in an exercise configuration on a floor surface; 
         FIG. 24  is a top view of the system of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of an eighth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and configured as an exercise bench; 
         FIG. 26  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 25  configured as a two-wheel dolly; 
         FIG. 27  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 25  configured for storage; 
         FIG. 28  is a top view of a ninth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and configured as an exercise bench with opposite side, selectorized dumbbells deployed for use; 
         FIG. 29  is a front view of the system shown in  FIG. 28  and configured in similar fashion; 
         FIG. 30  is a top view of the system of  FIG. 28  with the dumbbells retracted to a storage position beneath the bench; 
         FIG. 31  is a front view of the system shown in  FIG. 30  and configured in similar fashion; 
         FIG. 32  is a side view of the system of  FIGS. 28-31 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a side view of the system of  FIGS. 30-31  reconfigured as a two-wheel dolly; 
         FIG. 34  is a side view of the system of  FIGS. 30-31  reconfigured for compact storage; 
         FIG. 35  is a side view of a tenth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention; 
         FIG. 36  is a top view of the system of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a front view of the system of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 38  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 36  in a transitional phase between configurations; 
         FIG. 39  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 36  configured for transport; 
         FIG. 40  is a front view of an eleventh exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and configured to accommodate a standing user; 
         FIG. 41  is a top view of the system of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a front view of the system of  FIG. 40  reconfigured to accommodate a seated user; 
         FIG. 44  is a top view of the system shown in  FIG. 43  and configured in similar fashion; 
         FIG. 45  is a side view of the system shown in  FIG. 43  and configured in similar fashion; 
         FIG. 46  is a side view of the system of  FIGS. 40-45  configured to accommodate a seated user, and shown in a modified form with one of its optional wheels removed; 
         FIG. 47  is a side view of the modified system of  FIG. 46  reconfigured to accommodate a standing user; 
         FIG. 48  is a top view of the modified system of  FIG. 46  with an optional bench shown therewith; 
         FIG. 49  is a side view of a twelfth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention and configured to accommodate a standing user; 
         FIG. 50  is a front view of the system of  FIG. 49 ; 
         FIG. 51  is a side view of the system of  FIG. 49  reconfigured to accommodate a seated user; 
         FIG. 52  is a front view of the system shown in  FIG. 51  and configured in similar fashion; 
         FIG. 53  is a top view of a thirteenth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention, and arranged in a storage configuration; 
         FIG. 54  is a side view of the exercise system of  FIG. 53 ; 
         FIG. 55  is a top view of the exercise system of  FIG. 53  arranged in a first active configuration; 
         FIG. 56  is a side view of the exercise system of  FIG. 55  in the first active configuration; 
         FIG. 57  is a side view of the exercise system of  FIG. 53  arranged in a second active configuration; 
         FIG. 58  is a front view of the exercise system of  FIG. 57  in the second active configuration; 
         FIG. 59  is a top view of a fourteenth exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention, and arranged in a storage configuration; 
         FIG. 60  is a side view of the exercise system of  FIG. 59  arranged in the storage configuration; 
         FIG. 61  is a top view of the exercise system of  FIG. 59  arranged in a first active configuration; 
         FIG. 62  is a side view of the exercise system of  FIG. 61  in the first active configuration; 
         FIG. 63  is a top view of the exercise system of  FIG. 59  arranged in a second active configuration; 
         FIG. 64  is a top view of the exercise system of  FIG. 59  arranged in a third active configuration; 
         FIG. 65  is a side view of an alternative embodiment dumbbell support suitable for use on the exercise system of  FIG. 59 , and arranged in a first, relatively low position; and 
         FIG. 66  is a side view of the dumbbell support of  FIG. 65  arranged in a second, relatively higher position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     An exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  100  in  FIGS. 1-2 . The system  100  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  110 ; a weight set including a weight container  130  on a cart  120 ; an aerobic step  140 ; and a connecting bar  150  which selectively interconnects the aforementioned components in the configuration shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The bench  110  is shown by itself in  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b . Generally speaking, the bench  110  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  118  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. When the bench  110  occupies the generally horizontal position shown in  FIG. 3   a , the support  118  is sized and configured to support a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  110  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  110 . The support frame includes intermediate members  113  which underlie the padded support  118 ; first legs  111  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  113  proximate a first end of the bench  110 ; and second legs  114  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  113  proximate a second, opposite end of the bench  110 . Feet  112  extend generally perpendicularly away from distal ends of respective legs  111  and in opposite directions away from one another. Holes  115  extend transversely through respective legs  114  to receive the connecting bar  150 , as further explained below. 
     The cart  120  and the weight container  130  are shown alone in  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b . Generally speaking, the cart  120  is designed to support the weight container  130  (and an associated weight set) and to roll across a floor surface. The cart  120  includes a generally rectangular frame  121 , and wheels  122  that are rotatably mounted on the frame  121  at respective corners thereof. Various types of known locking arrangements may be provided on one or more of the wheels  122  to selectively prevent the cart  120  from rolling across a floor surface. A hole  125  extends transversely through the frame  121  to receive the connecting bar  150 , as further explained below. The weight container  130  (comprising left and right weight supports) is mounted on the cart  120  and includes upwardly opening boxes or cradles  132  which are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  134  in respective, upwardly opening compartments or slots. 
     On the depicted embodiment  100 , the plates  134 , cradles  132 , and associated dumbbell handles  136  are of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,997 to Roth et al., which is incorporated herein by reference. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to this particular type of weight plate and/or weight plate holder. For example, the present invention may be used various sorts of selectorized dumbbells and/or associated weight plate holders, including those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,822,034 and 5,284,463 to Shields; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,637,064 and 5,769,762 to Towley III and Olson et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Still more examples of suitable weight sets are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,350 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,442 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,481 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,666 to Krull; U.S. Pat. No. 6,416,446 to Krull; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,979, which are also incorporated herein by reference. Moreover, persons skilled in the art may deem it desirable to modify certain embodiments of the present invention to accommodate entirely different types of weights, including, for example, traditional fixed weight dumbbells and/or weight plates of the type that fit onto the ends of a bar. 
     The aerobic step  140  is shown by itself in  FIGS. 5   a  and  5   b . The step  140  is sized and configured to support a person in a standing position with one or both feet positioned on the step  140  (when positioned as shown in  FIG. 3   c ). The step  140  includes a sidewall or base portion  143  and an upwardly facing support surface or body supporting platform  144 . The step  140  may also be described as a downwardly opening box sized and configured to house the weight container  130 . A hole  145  extends transversely through the base portion  143  to receive the connecting bar  150 , as further explained below. Also, a catch or clip  147  is mounted on one side of the base portion  143 , proximate the hole  145 , to selectively maintain the connecting bar  150  in a latched position relative to the step  140 . 
     The connecting bar  150  is an L-shaped bar having a relatively shorter segment  151  that functions both as a handle and as a latch, and a relatively longer segment  152  that functions to interconnect the other components. In this regard, the legs  114  of the bench  110  are sized and configured for insertion into the cart  120 , between the relatively lower transverse members designated as  123  in  FIG. 3   b , and the relatively higher transverse members designated as  124  in  FIG. 3   b . When the distal ends of the legs  114  encounter a stop proximate the front of the cart  120 , the holes  115  in the legs  114  align with the hole  125  in the cart  120 . Also, when the step  140  is positioned on top of the cart  120 , between the wheels  122  and straddling the weight container  130 , the hole  145  similarly aligns with the hole  125  in the cart  120 . In this capacity, the step  140  provides the additional functions of both covering and containing the weight plates  134 . 
     The aligned holes  145 ,  125 , and  115  are sized and configured to receive the distal end of the longer segment  152  of the connecting bar  150 . As the opposite, handle segment  151  approaches the sidewall  143  of the step  140 , it is rotated toward a two o&#39;clock orientation in order to clear both the catch  147  and the wheels  122 . Upon full insertion, the handle segment  151  is rotated toward a ten o&#39;clock orientation and snapped into place between the clip  147  and the sidewall  143  of the step  140 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , when all of the components are properly interconnected, the entire system  100  is rollable across a floor surface as a unit. The transversely extending feet  112  on the generally vertical bench  110  are available as handles to facilitate maneuvering of the system  100  in this configuration. 
     Another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  200  in  FIGS. 5-7 . The system  200  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  210  and a weight container  230 , which are selectively interconnected in either of two configurations. In a first configuration, shown in  FIG. 5 , the bench  210  occupies a generally vertical orientation, and the system  200  may be described as a two-wheel dolly. In a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 7 , the bench  210  occupies a generally horizontal orientation suitable for supporting a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  210  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  210 . 
     Generally speaking, the bench  210  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  218  that is mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. The support frame includes intermediate members  213  that underlie the padded support  218 , and legs  211  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  213  proximate a first end of the bench  210 . A reinforcing plate  219  is secured across the ends of the members  213  opposite the legs  211 . 
     The weight container  230  (comprising left and right weight supports) includes a support frame  221 , and wheels  222  that are rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame  221  proximate a first end thereof. Legs  229  are mounted on an opposite end of the frame  221  and cooperate with the wheels  222  to maintain the system  200  in a stable position on an underlying floor surface. Various types of known locking arrangements may be provided on one or more of the wheels  222  to selectively prevent the system  200  from rolling across the floor surface. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the wheels  222  could be replaced by another pair of legs if a more stationary device is preferred. The weight container  230  includes upwardly opening boxes or cradles  232  that are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  234  for a selectorized dumbbell like any those mentioned above with reference to the first embodiment  100 . 
     The members  213  on the bench  210  are square tubes which are sized and configured to receive the upwardly extending, distal ends of the legs  229  or the posts  223  on the frame  221 . With respect to the legs  229  (and with reference to  FIG. 7 ), holes are provided in the downwardly facing sides of the tubes  213  to receive the upper ends of the legs  229 . With respect to the posts  223  (and with reference to  FIG. 6 ), the open ends of the tubes  213  fit over the upper ends of the posts  223 . In each arrangement, aligned holes may be provided in the overlapping members to accommodate a connecting bar for purposes of more securely interconnecting the two components. 
     Yet another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  300  in  FIGS. 8-10 . The system  300  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  310 ; a weight container  330  and associated weights; and a connecting bar  350  that selectively interconnects the aforementioned components in the configuration shown in  FIG. 8 . 
     Generally speaking, the bench  310  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  318  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. When the bench  310  occupies the generally horizontal position shown in  FIG. 10 , the support  318  is sized and configured to support a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  310  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  310 . The support frame includes intermediate members  313  that underlie the support  318 . First legs  311  extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  313  proximate a first end of the bench  310 . Reinforcing flanges  319  are interconnected between respective legs  311  and respective members  313 . Wheels  322  are rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame proximate the juncture between the legs  311  and the members  313 . 
     Second legs  314  are pivotally connected to respective members  313  proximate a second, opposite end of the bench  310  (at pin joints  381 ). A foot member  317  is interconnected between the opposite, lower ends of the legs  314  and extends outwardly in opposite directions therefrom. Brackets  380  have first ends that are pivotally connected to respective legs  314  at pin joints  315 . When the bench  310  is configured as shown in  FIG. 10 , opposite, second ends of the brackets  380  are releasably connected to the members  313  by means of a connecting bar  388  inserted through holes  385  in the members  313  and aligned holes in the ends of the brackets  380 . 
     When the bench  310  is configured as shown in  FIG. 9 , the connecting bar  388  is inserted through holes  386  in the members  313  and aligned holes  316  in the legs  314 , as well as through the holes in the movable ends of the brackets  380 . In this configuration, the opposite ends of the foot  317  are available for use as handles in maneuvering the system  300  like a two-wheel dolly. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the collapsible legs  314  on this embodiment  300  may be provided on other embodiments, such as the first embodiment  100 , and conversely, that the collapsible legs  314  on this embodiment  300  may be replaced by rigidly secured legs, such as those designated as  114  on the first embodiment  100 . 
     The weight container  330  (comprising left and right weight supports) includes upwardly opening boxes or cradles  332  that are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  334  similar to any of those mentioned above with reference to the preceding embodiments. Ledges or shoulders  333  extend lengthwise along opposite sides of the weight container  330  to facilitate connection of same to the bench  310 . In this regard, when the bench  310  occupies the generally vertical orientation shown in  FIG. 9 , the wheels  322  rest upon the floor, and the legs  311  on the bench  310  are maneuverable directly beneath the ledges  333  on the weight container  330 . When the leading edges of the brackets  319  engage the near end of the weight container  330 , a slot in one of the ledges  333  aligns with a slot in the leg  311  to receive the generally Z-shaped connecting bar  350 , which is inserted through the aligned slots and rotated to discourage the legs  311  from dropping to the floor. The resulting configuration is shown in  FIG. 8 , and may be described as a two-wheel dolly. 
     Still another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  400  in  FIGS. 11-13 . The system  400  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  410  and a weight container  430 , which are interconnected and transformable between at least two configurations. In a first configuration, shown in  FIG. 11 , the bench  410  occupies a generally vertical orientation, and the system  400  may be described as a two-wheel dolly. In a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 13 , the bench  410  occupies a generally horizontal orientation suitable for supporting a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  410  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  410 . 
     Generally speaking, the bench  410  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  418  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. The support frame includes intermediate members  413  that underlie the padded support  418 , and legs  411  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  413  proximate a first end of the bench  410 . 
     The weight container  430  (comprising left and right weight supports) includes a support frame  421 , and wheels  422  rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame  421  proximate a first end thereof. Legs  424  are mounted on an opposite end of the frame  421  and cooperate with the wheels  422  to maintain the system  400  in a stable position on an underlying floor surface. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various types of known locking arrangements may be provided on one or more of the wheels  422  to selectively prevent the system  400  from rolling across the floor surface, or that the wheels  422  could be replaced by another pair of legs if a more stationary device is preferred. The weight container  430  further includes upwardly opening boxes or cradles  432  that are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  434  like any of those mentioned above with reference to the preceding embodiments. 
     Posts  423  extend upward on the frame  421  proximate the wheels  422 . The members  413  are pivotally connected to respective posts  423  at pivot points  428 . Extensions  417  of the members  413  extend beyond the pivots points  428  and are pivotally connected to respective brackets  470  at pivot points  478 . Opposite ends of the brackets  470  are pivotally connected to respective slides  427  at pivot points  472 . The slides  427  are movable along respective sides of the frame  421  between the legs  424  and the wheels  422 . The slides  427  are sufficiently wide (and/or supplemented with spacers) to offset the lateral space occupied by the members  413 , so that the brackets  470  occupy respective vertical planes extending perpendicular to the pivot axes  478  and  472 . Holes  475  extend laterally through respective slides  427  and align with holes  425  in the frame  421  when the system  400  is configured as shown in  FIG. 11  or  FIG. 13 . In either case, a connecting bar  455  may be inserted through the aligned holes  475  and  425  to latch the components relative to one another. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that a bias may be exerted against the bench  410  to offset a portion of its weight. For example, a torsion spring may be interconnected between the members  413  and the posts  423  to help urge the bench  410  toward a vertical orientation relative to the weight container  430 . 
     Still another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  500  in  FIGS. 14-16 . The system  500  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  510  and a weight container  530 , which are interconnected and transformable into at least three different configurations. In a first configuration, shown in  FIG. 14 , only the weight container  530  rests upon an underlying floor surface, and the system  500  is configured for storage. In a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 15 , only wheels  522  rest upon the floor surface, and the system  500  is configured for mobility. In a third configuration, shown in  FIG. 16 , only the bench  510  rests upon the floor surface, and the system  500  is configured for exercise purposes. 
     Generally speaking, the bench  510  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  518  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. When arranged as shown in  FIG. 16 , the support  518  is sized and configured to support a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  510  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  510 . The support frame includes intermediate members  513  that underlie the padded support  518 ; legs  511  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  513  proximate a first end of the bench  510 ; and legs  514  that extend generally perpendicularly away from the members  513  proximate an opposite, second end of the bench  510 . Posts  516  extend generally perpendicularly away from the legs  514  proximate the lower, distal ends thereof, and the wheels  522  are rotatably mounted on the posts  516 . 
     The weight container  530  includes left and right, upwardly opening weight supports or cradles  532  which are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  534  like any of those mentioned above with reference to the preceding embodiments. The cradles  532  have upwardly disposed beams  535  which are pivotally connected to respective legs  514 , intermediate the support  518  and the wheels  522 , at pin joints  515 . As a result of these pivotal connections, which define a horizontal pivot axis between the bench  510  and the weight container  530 , the cradles  532  tend to remain in a preferred, upright orientation regardless of the orientation of the bench  510 . Also, the weight of the cradles  532  and the weight plates  534  biases the bench  510  “over center” and toward either the storage configuration shown in  FIG. 14  or the exercise configuration shown in  FIG. 16 . As suggested by the preceding disclosure of other embodiments, a connecting bar may be inserted through aligned holes in the beams  535  and the legs  514  (in the region designated as  590  in  FIG. 14 ) to lock the system  500  in the storage configuration. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that “over-center” biasing may be used on other embodiments, as well, and that the bench itself may be used for such purposes (with or without the weight container), depending on the particular arrangement. 
     Still another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  600  in  FIGS. 17-18 . The system  600  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  610  and a weight container  630 , which are interconnected and transformable into at least two different configurations. In a first configuration, shown in  FIG. 18 , the bench  610  occupies a generally vertical orientation, and the system  600  may be described as a two-wheel dolly. In a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 17 , the bench  610  occupies a generally horizontal orientation suitable for supporting a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  610  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  610 . 
     Generally speaking, the bench  610  includes a padded support or body supporting platform  618  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. The support frame includes intermediate members  613  that underlie the padded support  618 , and legs  611  that are pivotally connected to the members  613  at pivot axis  612 , proximate a first end of the bench  610 . The intermediate members  613  are also pivotally connected to posts  623 , proximate a second, opposite end of the bench  610 , thereby defining pivot axis  614 . Fourth bars or members  660  are also pivotally interconnected between respective posts  623  (at pivot axis  662 ) and respective legs  611  (at pivot axis  661 ), thereby creating respective four-bar linkages. As a result of this arrangement, the members  660  are constrained to remain parallel to the members  613 , and the legs  611  are constrained to remain parallel to the posts  623 , regardless of the orientation of the bench  610  relative to the weight container  630 . When the system  600  is configured as shown in  FIG. 17 , the members  660  and  613  extend perpendicular to the legs  611  and the posts  623 ; and when the system  600  is configured as shown in  FIG. 18 , the members  660  and  613  extend parallel to the legs  611  and the posts  623 . 
     The weight container  630  includes a support frame  621  having a floor engaging base  626 , and floor engaging wheels  622  rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame  621  proximate a first end thereof. When the base  626  is resting flat upon an underlying floor surface, the system  600  remains stable and stationary. When the system  600  is folded into the configuration shown in  FIG. 18  and tilted onto the wheels  622 , the system  600  is rollable across the floor surface. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the wheels  622  are not required if a more stationary system is preferred. The weight container  630  includes left and right, upwardly opening weight supports or cradles  632  that are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  634  like any of those mentioned above with reference to the preceding embodiments. 
     The members  660  extend beyond the pivot axis  662  and are provided with connector holes  665  proximate their distal ends. A similarly sized hole  635  extends through the frame  621  at a like distance from the pivot axis  662 . As a result, when the system  600  is configured as shown in  FIG. 17 , the holes  665  and  625  align to receive a connecting bar  656  similar to any of the connecting bars described above with reference to the preceding embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other known fastening or latching arrangements may be substituted for the connecting bar (both on this embodiment and others described herein) without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, spring biased latches could be mounted on one of the interacting members and could be selectively deflected to accommodate passage of the other member. 
     At the other end of the bench  610 , holes  615  extend through the legs  611  at a first distance from the pivot axis  612 , and at a second, relatively shorter distance from the pivot axis  661 . Similarly sized holes  663  extend through the members  660  at the same second distance from the pivot axis  661 , and similarly sized holes  616  extend through the members  613  at the same first distance from the pivot axis  612 . As a result, when the system  600  is folded into the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 , the holes  663 ,  615 , and  616  align to receive the connecting bar  656 . 
     In each of  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the connecting bar  656  selectively locks the four-bar linkage in the depicted configuration. On this embodiment  600 , the connecting bar  656  is sufficiently long to accommodate grips which are made of rubber and are sized and configured to slide onto opposite ends of the bar  656 . The grips serve as handles and/or foot rests (depending upon the configuration of the system  600 ) and also maintain the bar in a locked position. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that a damper may be interconnected between members of the four-bar linkage to slow the descent of the bench  610  from the vertical orientation shown in  FIG. 18  to the horizontal orientation shown in  FIG. 17 , and/or that a spring may be interconnected between members of the four-bar linkage to help lift the bench  610  from the horizontal orientation shown in  FIG. 17  to the vertical orientation shown in  FIG. 18 . 
     Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the present invention is not limited to the particular type of exercise bench described with reference to the foregoing embodiments. For example, the system  600  may be modified to include a two-piece body support  681 ,  682  (and/or barbell posts  624 ), as shown on the system designated as  600 ′ in  FIG. 19 . The posts  624  extend upward from the base  626  and upward beyond the pivotal connection with the intermediate members  613 ′ (at pivot axis  614 ). Brackets  625  are mounted on top of the posts  624  to receive and support a barbell. When the system  600 ′ is folded in the manner suggested by FIG.  18 , the elongated posts  624  fit between the members  613 ′ and the members  660 , and beneath the legs  611 . 
       FIG. 20  shows a system  600 ″ which includes the two-piece body support  681 ,  682 , but not the barbell posts  624 . The smaller body support  682  is movable along the intermediate supports  613 ′, and the larger body support  681  is pivotal relative to the smaller body support  682 . A brace  688  is pivotally interconnected between the larger body support  681  and the relative shorter posts  623 , to selectively support the larger body support  681  in an inclined orientation relative to the intermediate supports  613 ′. A connecting bar  658  inserts through holes  616  or  686  in the supports  613 ′ and aligned holes in the smaller body support  682  to maintain the supports  681 ,  682  in either configuration ( FIG. 19  or  20 , respectively). The connecting bar  658  may also be inserted through the aligned holes in the supports  613 ′ and the legs  611  to maintain either system  600 ′ or  600 ″ in a folded configuration. Additional holes  628  are provided in the posts  623  or  624  to receive the other connecting bar  656  when either system  600 ′ or  600 ″ is folded. 
     The foregoing description and accompanying drawings also suggest various folding bench systems which may be practiced in the absence of a weight container. For example, the system  600  shown in  FIGS. 17-18  may be modified somewhat to arrive at the apparatus designated as  800  in  FIGS. 25-27 . In a first configuration, shown in  FIG. 25 , the apparatus  800  occupies an exercise bench configuration; in a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 26 , the apparatus  800  occupies a transport configuration; and in a third configuration, shown in  FIG. 27 , the bench  800  occupies a storage configuration. The apparatus  800  is shown with optional members  833  to illustrate that it may be used as a two-wheel dolly when in the second configuration, and with optional barbell supports  825  to illustrate that it may be used for barbell exercises, as well as dumbbell exercises, when in the first configuration. 
     Generally speaking, the bench portion  810  of the apparatus (excluding the optional members  833 ) includes a padded support or body supporting platform  818  mounted on a support frame in a manner known in the art. The support frame includes intermediate members  813  that underlie the padded support  818 , and legs  811  that are pivotally connected to the members  813  at pivot axis  812 , proximate a first end of the bench  810 . The intermediate members  813  are also pivotally connected to posts  824 , proximate a second, opposite end of the bench  810 , thereby defining pivot axis  814 . Fourth bars or members  860  are also pivotally interconnected between respective posts  824  (at pivot axis  862 ) and respective legs  811  (at pivot axis  861 ), thereby creating respective four-bar linkages. As a result of this arrangement, the members  860  are constrained to remain parallel to the members  813 , and the legs  811  are constrained to remain parallel to the posts  823  in all of the available configurations. When the apparatus  800  is configured as shown in  FIG. 25 , the members  860  and  813  extend perpendicular to the legs  811  and the posts  824 ; and when the apparatus  800  is configured as shown in  FIG. 26  or  FIG. 27 , the members  860  and  813  extend parallel to the legs  811  and the posts  824  (and the overall height of the apparatus  800  is less than four times the width of the structural members  811 ,  813 ,  824 , and  860 , and less than four times the depth of the same structural members). 
     The members  860  extend beyond the pivot axis  862  and are provided with connector holes proximate their distal ends. A similarly sized hole extends through brackets  826  on the posts  824  at a like distance from the pivot axis  862 . As a result, when the apparatus  800  is configured as shown in  FIG. 25 , a connecting bar  856  may be inserted through aligned holes in the members  860  and the brackets  826 . At the other end of the bench  810 , holes  815  extend through the legs  811  at a first distance from the pivot axis  812 , and at a second, relatively shorter distance from the pivot axis  861 . Similarly sized holes  863  extend through the members  860  at the same second distance from the pivot axis  861 , and similarly sized holes  816  extend through the members  813  at the same first distance from the pivot axis  812 . As a result, when the apparatus  800  is folded into the configuration shown in  FIG. 26  or  FIG. 27 , the holes  863 ,  815 , and  816  align to receive the connecting bar  856 . 
     In each of  FIGS. 25-27 , the connecting bar  856  selectively locks the four-bar linkage in the depicted configuration. Like on the embodiment  600 , the connecting bar  856  is sufficiently long to accommodate grips which are made of rubber and are sized and configured to slide onto opposite ends of the bar  856 . The grips serve as handles and/or foot rests (depending upon the configuration of the apparatus  800 ) and also maintain the bar in a locked position. 
     A bar  802  is secured transversely between the posts  824  proximate the lower ends thereof, and relatively small diameter wheels  822  are rotatably mounted on opposite ends of the bar  802 . The wheels are sized and arranged to be spaced above the floor when the apparatus  800  occupies the configuration shown in  FIG. 25 . When the apparatus  800  occupies the configuration shown in  FIG. 26 , the apparatus  800  may be tilted rearward to bring the wheels  822  into contact to the floor (a completely tilted apparatus  800  is shown in  FIG. 27 ). 
     The members  833  are pivotally connected to the posts  824  proximate the lower ends of the latter, thereby defining pivot axis  836 . An extension  838  of each member  833  bears against the cross-bar  802  when the apparatus is configured as shown in  FIG. 25  or  FIG. 26 , thereby countering downward force applied against the members  833  on the opposite side of the pivot axis  836 . When the members  833  are rotated to the orientation shown in  FIG. 27 , the extensions  838  project beyond the posts  824 , and the members  833  rest on the cross-bar  802  and between the posts  824 . 
     Yet another “bench-type” exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  900  in  FIGS. 28-34 . The system  900  may be described in terms of an exercise bench  910  and weight holders or weight supports  930  which are interconnected and may be arranged into different configurations. In a first configuration, shown in  FIGS. 28-32 , the bench  910  is arranged in a generally horizontal orientation suitable for supporting a person in a supine position with feet resting on the floor forward of the bench  910  and/or on opposite sides of the bench  910 . In a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 33 , the bench  910  is folded into an L-shaped configuration, and the system  900  may be described as a two-wheel dolly. In this second configuration, the height DH of the dolly is thirteen seven and one-half inches. In a third configuration, shown in  FIG. 34 , the bench  910  is broken down into overlapping parts, and the system  900  is relatively compact for purposes of storage and/or transportation. In this third configuration, the system  900  has a length SL of twenty-four inches (shown in  FIG. 34 ), a width SW of fifteen and one-half inches (shown in  FIG. 31 ), and a height SH of eighteen inches (also shown in  FIG. 31 ). 
     Generally speaking, the bench  910  includes a first padded support  911  mounted on left and right L-shaped members  909 , and a second padded support  912  mounted on a frame  920 . Each padded support  911  and  912  preferably includes a plywood base, a padding material disposed on top of the plywood base, and a cover disposed about the padding material and the sides of the plywood base, and secured to the bottom of the plywood base. On the embodiment  900 , the padded support  911  has a width W 1  of ten inches and a length L 1  of twenty and one-half inches, and the padded support  912  has a width W 2  of fourteen inches and a length L 2  of seventeen inches. The two padded supports  911  and  912  cooperate to define a bench length L 3  of thirty-nine inches (shown in  FIG. 30 ). 
     The frame  920  includes left and right U-shaped members  921  that are inverted in such a manner that their distal ends engage the underlying floor surface. The frame  920  also includes an intermediate U-shaped member  922  that is arranged horizontally and interconnected between the left and right U-shaped members  921 . Both a bar  923  and the support  912  are interconnected between the left and right U-shaped members  913 , as well. The bar  923  is preferably secured in place by bolts and/or welding, and the support  912  is preferably secured in place by hook-and-loop fasteners and/or pegs extending downward from the support  912  and into holes in the U-shaped members  921 . 
     When the frame  920  is resting flat on an underlying floor surface, the system  900  remains stable and stationary. Wheels  904  are rotatably mounted on the rearward distal segments of respective U-shaped members  921  so as to rest just above the floor surface when the system  900  occupies any of the positions shown in  FIGS. 32-34 . When the system  900  is folded into the “dolly configuration” shown in  FIG. 33 , it may be tilted rearward onto the wheels  904  and rolled across the floor surface. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the wheels  904  are not required if a stationary system is preferred. 
     The L-shaped members  909  are selectively pivotally connected to the frame  920  between the U-shaped members  921 . In particular, the longer distal end of a generally J-shaped rod  908  is inserted through aligned holes in the L-shaped members  909  and the U-shaped members  921  (as shown in  FIGS. 32-33 ). As shown in  FIG. 32 , the distal end of another generally J-shaped rod  907  is inserted through aligned holes in the L-shaped members  909  and the intermediate segments of respective U-shaped members  921  to lock the system in the “bench configuration” shown in  FIG. 32 . As shown in  FIG. 33 , the second J-shaped rod  907  may alternatively be inserted through aligned holes in the L-shaped members  909  and the proximate distal segments of respective U-shaped members  921  to lock the system in the “dolly configuration” shown in  FIG. 33 . As shown in  FIG. 34 , the J-shaped rods  907  and  908  may alternatively be used to lock the system in the “compact configuration” shown in  FIG. 34 . 
     Each weight support or base  930  is mounted on a respective cart or wing member  931 , which may also be described as an inverted U-shaped member. Rollers or casters  934  are mounted on the distal ends of the U-shaped member  931 , and the weights supports  930  are mounted on the intermediate portions of respective U-shaped members  931 . Handlebars  932  have distal ends portions that are slidably mounted to respective sides of the U-shaped frame member  922 ; intermediate portions that are rigidly secured to respective U-shaped members  931 ; and a transversely extending handle portion that is interconnected between the intermediate portions and disposed outboard from a respective weight support  930 . The distal ends of the handlebars  932  are preferably configured to resist passage through the associated side of the U-shaped frame member  922 . The foregoing arrangement is such that a person may roll the weight supports  930  and associated dumbbell assemblies  90  between respective deployed positions, on opposite sides of the bench member  912  as shown in  FIGS. 28-29 , and respective stowed positions, beneath the planform of the bench member  912  as shown in  FIGS. 30-31 . As done in connection with previous embodiments, each of the dumbbell assemblies  90  is shown diagrammatically as the type of dumbbell assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,997 to Roth et al., but both the system  900  and the other embodiments of the present invention may be used with various dumbbell assemblies disclosed in the other patents incorporated herein by reference. 
     A U-shaped locking bar  936  is provided to lock the weight supports  930  in the stowed position shown in  FIGS. 30-31 . The locking bar  936  is configured for insertion through aligned holes in respective U-shaped members  921  and  931 . The holes are aligned to receive and accommodate the locking bar  936  in the inclined orientation shown in  FIGS. 33-34 . This inclination discourages unintentional withdrawal of the locking bar  936 . Clips  938  are provided on opposite sides of the U-shaped frame member  922  to hold the locking bar  936  when not in use (as shown in  FIGS. 28-29  and  32 ). 
     The system  900  is shown with weight supports  930  that move laterally between deployed and stowed positions, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to such an arrangement. For example, an alternative embodiment may be provided with weight supports that pivot about at least one horizontal axis between respective deployed positions and stowed positions. Another alternative embodiment may be provided with weight supports that pivot about respective vertical axes between respective deployed positions and respective stowed positions. 
     One such alternative embodiment is designated as  1500  in  FIGS. 59-64 . The exercise system  1500  may be described in terms of a body supporting platform  1520  mounted on left and right frame members  1511  and  1512 ; left and right pivoting legs  1551  and  1552  pivotally connected to respective frame members  1511  and  1512 ; and left and right dumbbell assemblies  1530  supported on respective legs  1551  and  1552 . 
     The body supporting platform  1520  preferably includes a board, a layer of padding material, and a cover secured about the padding material and the board. The padding material and the frame members  1511  and  1512  are disposed on opposite sides of the board. On the embodiment  1500 , the second body supporting platform  1426  is approximately 16 inches long (measured parallel to planes defined by respective frame members  1511  and  1512 ) and approximately 12 inches wide (measured perpendicular to its length). 
     Each frame member  1511  and  1512  is preferably a cylindrical tube that is configured and arranged into an inverted U-shaped member. The middle portion of each frame member  1511  and  1512  is secured to a respective part of the body supporting platform  1520  by screws. The legs of the frame members  1511  and  1512  are sized to support the body supporting platform  1520  at an elevation of approximately sixteen inches above the floor surface. A transverse support may be interconnected between the rear legs of the frame members  1511  and  1512 , by bolts and/or welding, if desired. 
     Each pivoting leg  1551  and  1552  is preferably a rectangular tube that is configured and arranged into an L-shaped member. A circular hole extends through each leg  1551  and  1552  proximate the distal end of its longer segment. Left and right bushings or sleeves  1515  have a relatively smaller diameter end that is inserted into the hole in a respective leg  1551  or  1552 , and a relatively larger diameter end that is rigidly mounted on the front leg of a respective frame member  1511  or  1512  by a bolt or other suitable fastener. Each leg  1551  and  1552  is arranged so that the distal end of its shorter segment rests on the floor. Plastic plugs or feet are preferably secured inside the floor engaging ends of both the legs  1551  and  1552  and the frame members  1511  and  1512 . The bushings  1515  are preferably made of plastic to avoid scratching of the frame members  1511  and  1512  during assembly, and to provide a low friction interface for pivoting of the legs  1551  and  1552  relative to respective frame members  1511  and  1512 . Upper bushings (not shown) may be rigidly mounted on the frame members  1511  and  1512  prior to installation of the legs  1551  and  1552 , in order to prevent upward movement of the latter relative to the former. 
     As on the other embodiments, each weight assembly  1530  includes a base or cradle  1535 , as well as a handle and weight plates that are selectively connected to the handle. Each cradle  1535  is mounted on the longer segment of a respective leg  1551  or  1552  by bolts.  FIGS. 59-64  show the cradles  1535  in four different positions relative to the body supporting platform  1520 . In  FIGS. 59-60 , the cradles  1535  are disposed directly beneath the body supporting platform  1520 . In  FIGS. 61-62 , the cradles  1535  are pivoted 180 degrees outward from the respective positions shown in  FIGS. 59-60 . In  FIG. 63 , the cradles  1535  occupy respective middle positions between those shown in  FIGS. 59-60  and  61 - 62 . In  FIG. 64 , the cradles  1535  occupy respective middle positions between those shown in  FIGS. 61-62  and  63 . 
     Recognizing that some people may want the weight assemblies  1530  to be supported at a relatively higher elevation than that shown in  FIG. 62 , accommodations may be made to selectively move the weight assemblies  1530  upward. For example,  FIGS. 65-66  show a modified pivoting leg  1551 ′ having a square hole formed through its longer segment, and a square tube  1565  that extends through the hole. The tube  1565  is selectively slidable up and down within the hole, and a bushing may be secured within the hole, if desired, to ensure a smooth interface. 
     An upper plate  1563  is rigidly secured (by welding) to an upper end of the tube  1565 , and the upper plate  1563  is rigidly secured (by bolts) to the cradle of the weight assembly  1530 , as well. A lower plate  1567  is rigidly secured (by welding) to a lower end of the tube  1565 , and a hole  1566  extends transversely through the tube  1565  proximate the lower plate  1567 . This arrangement allows the weight assembly  1530  to be moved between a low elevation position (for storage beneath the body supporting platform  1520 ), and a high elevation position (for more convenient access from the perspective of a standing person). When the weight assembly  1530  occupies the low elevation position (shown in  FIG. 65 ), the lower plate  1567  rests on the floor surface. When the weight assembly  1530  is moved to the high elevation position (shown in  FIG. 66 ), a pin is inserted through the hole  1566  to hold the tube  1565  in place relative to the leg  1551 ′. 
     As suggested by certain preceding embodiments, including the system  1500 , those skilled in the art will recognize that various aspects of the present invention may be implemented with various sorts of body supports or body supporting platforms. For example, still another exercise system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  700  in  FIGS. 21-24 . The system  700  may be described in terms of a weight container  730  and an aerobic step  750 , which are interconnected by a hinge  752  and supported by a frame  721  having wheels  722  on one end thereof. 
     The support frame  721  has a floor engaging base  726 , and floor engaging wheels  722  rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame  721 . When the base  726  is resting flat upon an underlying floor surface, the system  700  remains stable and stationary. When the system  700  is tilted onto the wheels  722 , the system  700  is rollable across the floor surface. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the wheels  722  are not required if a stationary device is preferred. The weight container  730  further includes left and right, upwardly opening weight supports or cradles  732  that are sized and configured to receive and support weight plates  734  and associated dumbbell handles like those mentioned above. 
     Generally speaking, the step  750  includes a horizontal bearing surface or body supporting platform disposed on top of the weight container  730 . Downwardly opening compartments  754  are formed beneath the platform to align with the upwardly opening compartments in the weight container  730  (to accommodate upper portions of the weights  734 ). A reinforcing beam  753  extends between the two compartments  754  and rests on a middle portion of the weight container  730  when the system  700  is configured as shown in  FIG. 22 . As shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , the platform is sized and configured to rest against the wheels  722  when opened as far as possible. 
     The foregoing arrangement  700  may be readily converted from a first configuration, shown in  FIGS. 23-24 , wherein the weights  734  are available for use, but the step  750  is not immediately available for use; to a second configuration, shown in  FIG. 22 , wherein the step  750  is available for use, but the weights  734  are not immediately available for use; to a third configuration, shown in  FIG. 21 , wherein only the wheels  722  are in contact with the floor surface, and neither the weights  734  nor the step  750  is immediately available for use. In this last configuration, a flexible cord  760 , which is attached to the frame  721 , facilitates maneuvering of the system  700  across a floor surface. 
     In view of the foregoing system  700  and/or the first embodiment  100 , those skilled in the art will recognize additional ways to combine an aerobic step and a weight container in order to practice the present invention. For example, an aerobic step may be sized and configured to straddle a weight container when both are resting upon a floor surface. On another alternative embodiment, the weight container(s) may move like a drawer into and out of the aerobic step. 
     Another “step” system constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  1400  in  FIGS. 53-58 . The system  1400  may be described in terms of weight assemblies  1430  and a frame  1410 , which are interconnected by a bolt  1413  and a mating nut  1414 . As on previous embodiments, each of the weight assemblies  1430  includes a handle; a plurality of weights that are selectively connected to the handle; and a weight support or base that maintains the weights in alignment with the handle. 
     The frame  1410  includes left and right frame members  1411  and  1412  that may be described in terms of respective C-shaped portions and respective transverse portions. The frame members  1141  and  1412  are arranged so that the C-shaped portions “face” in a common direction, and the transverse portions overlap one another, and are interconnected by bolts  1401  and mating nuts. 
     A first body supporting platform  1425  is secured to the “open” side of each C-shaped portion by screws  1404  and  1405 . The first body supporting platform  1425  preferably includes a board, a layer of padding material, and a cover secured about the padding material and the board. The padding material and the frame members  1411  and  1412  are disposed on opposite sides of the board. On the embodiment  1400 , the first body supporting platform  1425  is approximately 15 inches long (measured perpendicular to the transverse portions) and approximately 13.5 inches wide (measured perpendicular to its length). 
     A second body supporting platform  1426  is secured to an adjacent, relatively shorter side of each C-shaped portion by screws  1406 . The second body supporting platform  1426  lies flush across the C-shaped portions and an end of the first body supporting platform  1425 . The second body supporting platform  1426  preferably includes a board, a layer of padding material, and a cover secured about the padding material and the board. Again, the padding material and the frame members  1411  and  1412  are disposed on opposite sides of the board. On the embodiment  1400 , the second body supporting platform  1426  is approximately 13.5 inches long (measured parallel to the width of the first body supporting platform  1425 ) and approximately 8 inches wide (measured perpendicular to its length). 
     The frame  1410  also includes a transverse member  1416  that extends between the frame members  1411  and  1412  proximate an opposite end of the first body supporting platform  1425 . The transverse member  1416  is secured to support brackets  1415  by bolts, rivets, or other means known in the art. The support brackets are also secured to the frame members  1411  and  1412  by means of the screws  1405  described above. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the transverse member  1416  may also be secured in place by welding. 
     The bolt  1413  extends through a corner of each C-shaped portion, diagonally opposite the juncture between the two body supporting platforms  1425  and  1426 . The bolt  1413  also extends through an end of each weight cradle. The bolt  1423  defines a horizontal pivot axis between the weight cradles and the frame  1410 .  FIGS. 53-58  show the system  1400  with the frame  1410  in three different orientations relative to the floor surface, while the dumbbell assemblies  1430  occupy the same, upright orientation in each instance. 
       FIGS. 53-54  show the system  1400  in a first configuration, wherein the first body supporting platform  1425  extends parallel to the floor surface, and overlies the weight assemblies  1430 . Recognizing that a small portion of the weight assemblies  1430  remains visible from above, the term “overlies” or related descriptions should be interpreted with a certain amount of latitude to include situations where at least eighty-five percent of the weight assemblies are covered or hidden from above. In any event,  FIGS. 53-54  show the system  1400  arranged for storage, use as a foot stool, and/or use as an aerobic step (with the body supporting platform  1425  is disposed approximately eight inches above the floor surface). 
       FIGS. 55-56  show the system  1400  in a second configuration, wherein the second body supporting platform  1426  extends parallel to the floor surface, and the weight assemblies  1430  are resting uncovered on the floor surface (at least eighty-five percent uncovered). In this configuration, the system  1400  is arranged for use as a seat or a high step platform (with the body supporting platform  1426  disposed approximately sixteen inches above the floor surface), and the dumbbell assemblies  1430  are deployed for use. 
       FIGS. 57-58  show the system  1400  in a third configuration, wherein the second body supporting platform  1426  is resting flush on the floor surface, and the weight assemblies  1430  are supported approximately fourteen inches above the floor surface. In this configuration, the system  1400  is arranged for use as a dumbbell stand, and the dumbbell assemblies  1430  are more readily accessible for use. 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to weight supporting structures that include a body supporting element. In this regard,  FIGS. 35-39  show a dumbbell system  1000  that simply includes a stand and a dumbbell assembly  90  supported on the stand. The stand includes a frame member  1020  that may be described as an inverted U-shaped tube having a rectangular cross-section. A plastic end cap  1022  is inserted into one end of the frame member  1020 , and left and right wheels  1024  are rotatably mounted on opposite sides of an opposite end of the frame member  1020 . The wheels  1024  and the end cap  1022  cooperate to maintain an intermediate portion  1023  of the frame member  1020  in a stable and horizontal orientation. 
     A weight support or base  1030  is mounted on top of the intermediate portion  1023  of the frame member  1022 . The weight support  1030  is configured to support and accommodate operation of an adjustable dumbbell assembly (depicted as another dumbbell assembly  90 ). When configured as shown in  FIGS. 35-37 , the system  1000  has a length LT of seventeen inches, a width WT of seven and one-half inches, and a height HT of fourteen inches. 
     A U-shaped handlebar  1040  has opposite ends rotatably connected to the frame member  1020  proximate the juncture of the intermediate portion  1023  and the end portion associated with the end cap  1022 . An opposite, intermediate portion  1044  of the handlebar  1040  is sized and configured for grasping. As suggested by the arrows in  FIG. 38 , the handlebar  1040  is rotatable between a rest position shown in  FIG. 35  and an active position shown in  FIG. 39 . When the system  1000  is configured as shown in  FIG. 39 , the height HH of the handle  1044  relative to the floor or ground is twenty-five inches. 
     The system  1000  may be considered advantageous to the extent that it is relatively simple in construction, consumes relatively little space, and facilitates relocation within a room. Also, it is sized to position the dumbbell assembly  90  at a convenient height relative to a weight bench. On the other hand, an alternative embodiment stand may be made to place the dumbbell assembly  90  at a convenient height for a standing person (or to adjust between multiple heights). Furthermore, two of the systems  1000  may be used to position respective dumbbell assemblies  90  in any desired relation to one another. For example, the two dedicated systems  1000  may be positioned on opposite sides of a bench, or with sufficient space therebetween to accommodate a standing person with his shoulders directed toward respective dumbbell assemblies  90 . Such an arrangement reduces the likelihood of injury by allowing the person to lift the dumbbells without leaning forward. 
     Another “stand” system is designated as  1100 A in  FIGS. 40-42 , and as  1100 B in  FIGS. 43-45 . The system (of which  1100 A and  1100 B are simply different arrangements) similarly includes a stand and dumbbell assemblies  90  supported on the stand. The stand includes a frame member  1120  that may be described as a single piece of steel tube that has been bent into a desired configuration. The frame member  1120  includes a central transverse member  1121 , left and right short intermediate members  1122 , left and right long intermediate members  1123 , and right and left end members  1124 . The length FL of the frame member  1120  (shown in  FIG. 45 ) is twenty-four inches; the width FW of the frame member  1120  (shown in  FIG. 44 ) is twenty-two and one-half inches; and the height FH of the frame member  1120  (shown in  FIG. 45 ) is twelve inches. 
     Bearing plates  1101  are preferably mounted on the central transverse member  1121 , and similar bearing plates  1104  are preferably mounted on respective end members  1124 . Also, end caps  1102  are inserted into the distal ends of respective end members  1124 . The bearing plates  1101  and  1104  and the end caps  1102  are provided to reduce potential damage to an underlying floor surface, and are preferably made of plastic or rubber. Among other things, the bearing plates  1101  and  1104  and the end caps  1102  may be replaced by casters, if desired. 
       FIGS. 43-45  show the system  1100 B with the stand arranged in a relatively high profile orientation, with the plates  1101  and the end caps  1102  resting on an underlying floor surface. In this orientation, the height of the stand is twelve inches (designated as FH in  FIG. 45 ), thereby positioning the dumbbell assemblies  90  to accommodate a seated person. 
     Each weight support  1130  is mounted on a respective long intermediate member  1123 . In this regard, each weight support  1130  is provided with a downwardly opening channel to straddle a respective frame member  1123 . L-shaped detent pins  1150  are then inserted through aligned holes in respective weight supports  1130  and respective frame members  1123 . One of the respective frame member holes  1125  is shown in  FIG. 42 . 
       FIGS. 40-42  show the system  1100 A with the stand arranged “on end” or in a relatively high profile orientation, with the plates  1104  resting on the floor surface. In this orientation, the height of the stand is twenty-four inches (designated as FL in  FIGS. 42 and 45 ), thereby positioning the dumbbell assemblies  90  to accommodate a standing person. 
     Each weight support  1130  is mounted on a respective short intermediate member  1122 . As noted above, each weight support  1130  is provided with a downwardly opening channel to straddle a respective frame member  1122 . The L-shaped detent pins  1150  are inserted through aligned holes in respective weight supports  1130  and respective frame members  1122 . One of the respective frame member holes  1126  is shown in  FIG. 45 . 
     In either configuration  1100 A or  1100 B, the transversely measured distance between the weight supports  1130  (designated as DW in  FIG. 40 ) is sixteen inches. As a result, when the system is configured as shown in  FIGS. 40-42 , a person can walk into the gap between the dumbbell assemblies  90  and lift and return the dumbbells while maintaining a desired posture. Also, when the system is configured as shown in  FIGS. 43-45 , a person can sit between the dumbbell assemblies  90  (on a bench disposed therebetween, for example), and remove and return the dumbbells while maintaining a desired posture. 
       FIGS. 46 and 48  show a modified arrangement  1100 B′, and  FIG. 47  shows a modified arrangement  1100 A′. As suggested by the common reference numerals, these arrangements  1100 A′ and  1100 B′ are similar to the arrangements  1100 A and  1100 B except with respect to the frame  1120 ′ and associated wheels  1114 . In this regard, the frame  1120 ′ has end segments  1124 ′ that are L-shaped, and pairs of wheels  1114  that are rotatably on opposite sides of respective end segments  1124 ′. These modifications make the arrangements  1100 A′ and  1100 B′ relatively more mobile than their counterparts  1100 A and  1100 B.  FIG. 47  also shows additional holes  1115  in the long intermediate members  1123 ′ to accommodate adjustment of the weight supports  1130  relative thereto.  FIG. 48  also shows how a conventional bench  80  may be positioned relative to the arrangement  1100 B′ (or the arrangement  1100 B in the alternative), thereby placing the weight supports  1130  within reach of a person seated on the bench  80 . 
       FIGS. 49-52  show still another “stand” embodiment  1200  of the present invention. This dumbbell system  1200  includes a base  1220 , left and right adjustment members  1210  adjustably mounted on the base  1220 , left and right weight supports  1230  mounted on respective adjustment members  1210 , and left and right dumbbell assemblies  90  supported by respective weight supports  1230 . 
     The base  1220  may be described as a single piece of steel tube that has been bent into a desired configuration, including a central transverse member  1221 , left and right intermediate members  1222 , and right and left end members  1223 . A hole extends through the upper distal end of each end member  1223  to receive a respective detent pin  1250 . Also, bearing plates  1101  are mounted on the downwardly facing sides of the central transverse member  1221  and the left and right intermediate members  1222 . 
     Each adjustment member  1210  may be described as single piece of steel tube that has been bent into an L-shaped configuration. The adjustment members  1210  are sized and configured for insertion into the upper ends of respective end members  1223 . Also, several holes  1215  extend through the vertically extending portion of each adjustment member  1210  to alternatively receive a respective detent pin  1250 . In other words, each adjustment member  1210  telescopes within a respective end member  1223  and is selectively locked in place by inserting the detent pin  1250  through the hole in the end member  1223  and an aligned hole in the adjustment member  1210 . As a result, the overall height of the stand is variable between a maximum H 1  of twenty-three inches and a minimum H 2  of fourteen inches. 
     Each weight support  1230  is mounted on the horizontally extending portion of a respective adjustment member  1210  in the same manner as the weight supports  1130  are mounted on the frame members  1122  on the previous embodiments  1100 A and  1100 B. The adjustability of the stand height accommodates a range of user heights and applications. 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and/or depicted in the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, it is understood that various features may be implemented and/or combined in various ways as a matter of design choice. Moreover, the present invention is not limited to any one embodiment and in fact, may be expressed in various terms which are broad enough to cover a variety of embodiments and/or applications. 
     Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the present invention may be described and/or claimed in terms of various methods with reference to the foregoing embodiments. Such methods may include methods of using selectorized dumbbells, methods of storing selectorized dumbbells, and/or methods of transporting selectorized dumbbells. Such methods may also include methods of exercise with selectorized dumbbells. 
     The foregoing description and accompanying drawings will enable persons skilled in the art to make and use the present invention in various forms. In construing the nature and scope of the present invention, no special significance should attach to the fact that some of the features and/or advantages are discussed and/or shown in greater detail than others. For example, the wheels provide a necessary function on certain embodiments, but they are often shown in phantom lines to facilitate the depiction of other elements and/or to emphasize that the wheels could be omitted on alternative embodiments. Also, some terms are used with the understanding that they will be interpreted in common sense fashion so as to afford appropriate scope to the subject invention. For example, geometric terms such as horizontal and vertical should be construed in a relatively broad sense to include orientations within thirty degrees of same. With the foregoing in mind, the scope of the present invention should be limited only to the extent of the following claims.