Patent Publication Number: US-7901330-B2

Title: Method and system for varying stride in an elliptical exercise machine

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/107,375, assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,604,573, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR VARYING STRIDE IN AN ELLIPTICAL EXERCISE MACHINE, filed Apr. 14, 2005, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment or exercise machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machines and a method and system for varying or adjusting the stride of the reciprocating foot supports supported on an elliptical exercise machine for one or more purposes, and namely to accommodate different exercise routines and different users. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART 
     Exercise machines having alternating reciprocating foot supports configured to traverse or travel about a closed path to simulate a striding, running, walking, and/or a climbing motion for the individual using the machine are well known in the art, and are commonly referred to as elliptical exercise machines or elliptical cross-trainers. In general, an elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machine comprises a pair of reciprocating foot supports designed to receive and support the feet of a user. Each reciprocating foot support has at least one end supported for rotational motion about a pivot point or pivot axis, with the other end supported in a manner configured to cause the reciprocating foot support to travel or traverse a closed path, such as a reciprocating elliptical or oblong path or other similar geometric outline. Therefore, upon operation of the exercise machine to rotate the proximal end, each reciprocating foot support is caused” to travel or traverse the closed path. The reciprocating foot supports are configured to be out of phase with one another by 180° in order to simulate a proper and natural alternating stride motion. 
     An individual may utilize an elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machine by placing his or her feet onto the reciprocating foot supports. The individual may then actuate the exercise machine for any desired length of time to cause the reciprocating foot supports to repeatedly travel their respective closed paths, which action effectively results in a series of strides achieved by the individual to obtain exercise, with a low-impact advantage. An elliptical or elliptical-type machine may further comprise mechanisms or systems for increasing the resistance of the motion, and/or for varying the vertical elevation or height of the closed path. In addition, the reciprocating motion of the feet to achieve a series of strides may be complemented by a reciprocating movement of the arms, whether assisted by the exercise machine via a suitably configured mechanism or system, or unassisted. 
     A typical closed path may comprise a generally horizontal outline having a longitudinal axis therethrough. Depending upon the exercise machine, a closed path may be many different sizes. As such, a particular measurement of interest to individuals with respect to an elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machine is “stride length”. A stride length is essentially a measurement of the distance separating the two furthest points along the longitudinal axis of the closed path. Therefore, upon actuation of the exercise machine, a single stride may be referred to as travel by the reciprocating foot support, and therefore the foot of a user, along the closed path from a first endpoint on the along the longitudinal axis of the closed path to the a distal endpoint, also on the longitudinal axis. The stride and resulting stride length provided by an exercise machine, although simulated and possibly modified, is comparable to a single stride achieved during natural and/or modified gait of an individual. 
     Obviously, the strides, and particularly the stride lengths, between different individuals may vary, perhaps considerably. Indeed, a person of small stature will most likely have a much shorter stride length than a person of large stature, and thus will be more comfortable on an exercise machine configured to accommodate his or her particular size and resulting stride length. As such, it is important that the exercise machine function with a stride that corresponds to the stride of the user. The challenge arises when the exercise machine is intended for use by many individuals that may or may not have the same stride length. Moreover, it may be desirable within an exercise routine to vary the speed or frequency of strides along the closed path, the resistance felt, and/or the vertical height of the closed path, wherein some or all of these variable elements may require the user to adapt his or her stride to the changing routine to realize a more natural motion. 
     Despite their many advantages, and despite recent efforts to attain such, elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machines are devoid of a simple and efficient way to vary their stride length for the purpose of accommodating the stride lengths of individuals of different size and of providing a more natural stride motion. Many prior related exercise machines exist in the art that comprise complex or intricate solutions. However, many of these are difficult to operate at best, and are also expensive to manufacture and cumbersome to assemble as many of them comprise several components or linkages to ultimately achieve a variable stride length. 
     Another inherent deficiency with the many prior related exercise machines comprising a mechanism or system for varying the stride length of the machine is that they are so complex in design that it would be difficult to utilize the system or mechanism technology on different machines without requiring significant modifications to the machine, if possible at all. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by providing an exercise machine having the ability to be selectively adjusted to vary the stride of alternating reciprocating foot supports supported, and therefore the stride or stride length of a user. 
     As broadly embodied and described herein, the present invention features an exercise machine comprising: (a) a support structure; (b) a drive component pivotally coupled to the support structure and configured to rotate about a first pivot axis; (c) a reciprocating foot support configured to travel about a closed path having a stride length upon rotation of the drive component; (d) a coupling configuration configured to support the reciprocating foot support about the drive component at a position radially offset from the first pivot axis, the coupling configuration pivotally coupled to the drive component about a second pivot axis; and (e) an adjustment mechanism configured to enable the coupling configuration to pivot about the second pivot axis between at least two adjustment positions to vary the radial offset of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis. 
     In some embodiments, the reciprocating foot supports are &#39;further supported at a position offset from a longitudinal axis of the drive component. In other embodiments, the reciprocating foot supports are further supported at a position along the longitudinal axis of the drive component. 
     Moreover, in some embodiments, the reciprocating foot support comprises an axis of rotation that allows the reciprocating foot support to properly orbit the drive component during its rotation. 
     The drive component may comprise a crank, a wheel, or any other structure configured to rotate about a pivot point in a concentric or eccentric manner. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, the coupling configuration comprises a link having a proximal end pivotally coupled to the drive component, the link being configured to rotate about a second pivot axis positioned offset from the first pivot axis; and a strut extending from a distal end of the link and configured to couple the reciprocating foot support, the strut being radially offset from the first pivot axis and providing an axis of rotation for the reciprocating foot support. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the adjustment mechanism comprises a plurality of adjustment apertures formed within the drive component, each of the adjustment apertures being configured to vary the stride length of the reciprocating foot support; a pin contained within the strut and configured to releasably and selectively engage the adjustment apertures upon rotation of the link about the second pivot axis to vary the stride length of the reciprocating foot support; and biasing means configured to bias the pin within the strut. 
     The present invention also features an exercise machine comprising: (a) a support structure; (b) a drive component pivotally coupled to the support structure and configured to rotate about a first pivot axis; (c) a reciprocating foot support configured to travel about a closed path having a stride length upon rotation of the drive component; and (d) a rotatable engagement member supported within the reciprocating foot support and configured to couple the reciprocating foot support to the drive component at a position radially offset from the first pivot axis, the rotatable engagement member configured to adjust between at least two adjustment positions with respect to the first pivot axis to vary the radial offset of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis to vary the stride length. 
     The present invention further features an exercise machine comprising: (a) a support structure; (b) a crank having a proximal end pivotally coupled to the support structure and configured to rotate about a first pivot axis; (c) a strut pivotally coupled to the crank at a position radially offset from the first pivot axis, the strut configured to define and travel about a radial path upon rotation of the crank; (d) a reciprocating foot support having a proximal end coupled to the strut and a supported distal end, the reciprocating foot support configured to rotate about the strut and to traverse a closed path having a stride length upon rotation of the crank; and (e) an adjustment mechanism configured to selectively position the strut between at least two adjustment positions to vary the radial offset position of the strut and the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis to vary the stride length. 
     In still another broad sense, the present invention still further features an exercise machine comprising: (a) means for supporting a drive component about a surface, the drive component configured to rotate about a first pivot axis; (b) means for coupling a reciprocating foot support to the drive component at a position radially offset from the first pivot axis, the reciprocating foot support traversing a closed path having a stride length defined by a relative distance between the reciprocating foot support and the first pivot axis; and (c) means for pivoting the means for coupling between at least two adjustment positions to vary the offset position of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis to vary the stride length. 
     In a more specific description, the present invention features an elliptical exercise machine comprising: (a) a support structure; (b) a crank having a proximal end pivotally coupled to the support structure and configured to rotate about a first pivot axis, the crank comprising a plurality of adjustment apertures formed therein, each being radially offset from the first pivot axis and each defining an adjustment position? (c) a link having a proximal end pivotally coupled to a distal end of the crank, the link configured to rotate about a second pivot axis positioned offset from the first pivot axis; (d) a strut extending from a distal end of the link and configured to provide an axis of rotation radially offset from the first pivot axis, the strut configured to define and travel about a radial path upon rotation of the crank; (e) a reciprocating foot support having a proximal end coupled to the strut and a supported distal end, the reciprocating foot support configured to traverse a closed path having a stride length defined by the radial path; and (f) a pin contained within the strut and configured to selectively engage the adjustment apertures upon rotation of the link to vary the radial offset position of the axis of rotation to vary the stride length of the reciprocating foot support. 
     Finally, the present invention still further features a method for varying the stride of an exercise machine comprising: (a) providing a coupling configuration configured to couple a reciprocating foot support to a crank at a position radially offset from a first pivot axis; (b) operating the exercise machine to cause the reciprocating foot support to define a radial path about the first pivot axis upon rotation of the crank, and to cause the reciprocating foot support to traverse a closed path having a stride length; (c) causing the coupling configuration to pivot between at least two adjustment positions to adjust the radial offset of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis for the purpose of varying the stride length of the reciprocating foot support. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a rear mount or rear mechanism-type exercise machine according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  a general perspective view of the rear mount assembly depicted in  FIG. 1 , 
       wherein the rear mount system incorporates an exemplary system or mechanism for adjusting the stride of the reciprocating foot supports 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a detailed perspective view of the coupling configuration and adjustment mechanism of the exercise machine depicted in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the support structure and resulting foot print of the exercise machine are compacted, thus allowing the foot pads to be located near the ends of the reciprocating foot supports; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective rear view of the exercise machine of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a detailed side view of the exercise machine of  FIG. 4  depicting a coupling configuration and adjustment system according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the adjustment system comprises a biased pin or boss contained within the coupling configuration that is capable of selectively engaging one of a plurality of adjustment apertures formed in a crank-type drive component; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a detailed perspective view of the rear side of the coupling configuration and adjustment system or mechanism of the exercise machine depicted in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a detailed side view of the coupling configuration and adjustment mechanism according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a depiction of the closed path resulting from the rotation of the drive component and the relative offset of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the drive component; 
         FIG. 10-A  illustrates a perspective view of one end of a reciprocating foot support comprising a rotating boss supported in an end thereof, wherein the rotating boss is configured to facilitate the coupling of the reciprocating foot support to the drive component, as well as to selectively engage one of a plurality of corresponding apertures, slots, or other configurations formed in the drive component for varying the stride length of the reciprocating foot support; 
         FIG. 10-B  illustrates a side view of the reciprocating foot support depicted in  FIG. 10-A ; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a detailed front view of a drive component in the form of a crank comprising a plurality of adjustment apertures formed at different locations within the crank, wherein the several adjustment apertures are configured to facilitate the selective attachment of the reciprocating foot support to the crank and also the selective positioning of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the drive component to vary stride length; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a detailed front view of a drive component in the form of a crank comprising a slot formed about a longitudinal axis of the crank, wherein the slot is configured to facilitate the selective attachment of the reciprocating foot support to the crank and also the selective positioning of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the drive component to vary stride length; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a flow diagram of a method for varying the stride length of an exercise machine, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 14  illustrated is a partial and general perspective view of a front mechanical type exercise machine according to one exemplary embodiment, thus depicting the ability of the present invention variable stride adjustment may be incorporated into a front mount or front mechanical-type exercise machine. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, as represented in  FIGS. 1 through 14 , is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims. 
     The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are designated by numerals throughout. 
     The present invention describes a method and system for varying the stride length of an exercise machine whose components are configured to travel about a closed path, such as an elliptical or elliptical-type exercise machine. Generally, the present invention describes a simple and efficient way to vary the stride length of the exercise machine to accommodate the different strides and resulting stride lengths of different users, as well as to improve the natural motion of the desired type of stride, whether that be walking, running, climbing, or any combination of these. 
     At the outset, although many of the principles, exercise machines, systems, devices, assemblies, mechanisms, and methods described herein are discussed primarily in terms of their use with those types of elliptical exercise machines having a rear mount drive component or crank that utilizes swing arms, one ordinarily skilled in the art will understand that such principles, exercise machines, systems, devices, assemblies, mechanisms, and methods are adaptable, without undue experimentation, to be useable on an elliptical exercise machine or other similar type of exercise machine having a front mount configuration, wherein the closed path is generated by a front mount drive component, such as on a front mechanical-type exercise machine, or through any other manner, and are similarly adaptable for use on those types of exercise machines having stationary or fixed hand grips or handlebars. 
     The present invention provides several significant advantages over many prior related exercise machines comprising a system or mechanism for varying stride length within a closed path. First, an adjustment mechanism or system that adjusts the relative position of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the drive component provides a simple and effective solution to stride length variability that may be easily incorporated into several exercise machine designs. Second, by providing an adjustment mechanism configured to pivot about a central axle or pivot point located on the drive component or the crank and to engage one of a plurality of adjustment apertures formed in the drive component or crank, the ease and efficiency of adjustment of the stride length is improved because there are no parts that are releasable from the crank. In other words, everything is contained within the mechanism. Third, the support structure, such as a base or frame support, can be configured to comprise a much smaller foot print, thus changing the foot pad location along the reciprocating foot support. Fourth, the adjustment system or mechanism can be incorporated into a front mount (front mechanical-type) or rear mount (rear mechanical-type) exercise machine, as commonly known in the art. Fourth, different individuals with different strides or stride lengths can use the same machine at the same level of comfort, meaning the same natural simulated stride may be achieved for different individuals. 
     Each of the above-recited advantages will be apparent in light of the detailed description set forth below, with reference to the accompanying drawings. These advantages are not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other advantages may be realized, other than those specifically recited herein, upon practicing the present invention. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , illustrated is a perspective view of a rear mount or rear mechanical-type elliptical exercise machine according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Specifically,  FIG. 1  illustrates the elliptical exercise machine  10  as comprising a first reciprocating foot support  14  having a first end  18 , a second end  22 , and a corresponding foot pad  30  provided thereon and located between the first end  18  and the second end  22 . Complementing the first reciprocating foot support  14  is a second reciprocating foot support  44  having a first end  48 , a second end  52 , and a corresponding foot pad  60  provided thereon and located between the first end  48  and the second end  52 . The first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  are laterally spaced apart from one another, such that each of the corresponding foot pads  30  and  60 , respectively, are capable of comfortably receiving a respective foot of a user and for facilitating the performance of a striding motion with the user facing in the forward direction. It is noted herein, that the foot pads  30  and  60  are provided on the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , respectively, and that each of the foot pads  30  and  60  is sized and configured to receive the foot of a user. It is also noted that the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  may be alternatively configured without foot pads, with the user standing directly on the upper surface of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 . In this embodiment, a non-slip material may be added to the surface of the reciprocating foot supports. 
     The reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , as well as the other components of the exercise machine, are supported by a support structure  70 . The support structure  70  is configured to provide both structural and translational support to the components of the exercise machine  10 , and also to interface with the ground. The support structure  70  generally defines the size of the foot print of the exercise machine  10 . The support structure  70  may be any suitable frame-like structure or other configuration. In addition, the support structure  70  may comprise a unitary structure, or a plurality of components all coupled together or in groups. Essentially, the support structure  70  may comprise any suitable design and is not limited in any way herein. In the embodiment shown, the support structure  70  comprises an I-beam base configuration having a longitudinal support beam  74  functioning as the primary support member, and first and second lateral cross beams  78  and  82  located about and extending in opposing directions from each end of the longitudinal support beam  74 . Rubber or plastic caps  98  may be situated on the ends of the cross beams  78  and  82 . Extending upward from the longitudinal support beam  74  is a vertical or upright support  86  that functions to assist in the support of first and second swing arms  102  and  122 . The vertical support  86  may comprise or support various known items or assemblies, such as a user interface, fixed handle bars, cup holders, magazine or book racks, etc. In the embodiment shown, first and second fixed handle bars  90  and  94  are supported atop the vertical support  86 . 
     Each of the second ends  22  and  52  of the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  may be supported in any way commonly known in the art to enable the operation of the exercise machine  10 , and particularly the reciprocating motion of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 . In one exemplary embodiment, the first and second ends  22  and  52  of the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  may be pivotally coupled to first and second swing arms, respectively, such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . In another exemplary embodiment, the first and second ends  22  and  52  may comprise rollers, respectively, that glide along a track. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  have their second ends  22  and  52  pivotally coupled to first and second swing arms  102  and  122 , respectively. The first swing arm  102  is pivotally coupled to the vertical support  86  about a pivot axis  106  using any known coupling means. The second swing arm  122  is likewise pivotally coupled to the vertical support  86  about a pivot axis  126  using any known coupling means. The first and second swing arms  102  and  122  are configured to be laterally spaced apart on opposing left and right sides of the vertical support  86 . The first and second swing arms  102  and  122  are elongate links having upper and lower ends. The upper ends are pivotally coupled to the vertical support  86  and configured to pivot about pivot points  106  and  126 , respectively, while the lower ends are each pivotally coupled to the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  and are configured to pivot about pivot points  110  and  130 , respectively. The swing arms  102  and  122  function to guide the second ends  22  and  52  of the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , respectively, in a pendulous reciprocating motion along an arcuate closed path upon operation of the exercise machine  10 . Travel about this arcuate closed path provides a substantially horizontal forward-rearward component of motion that effectively simulates a user&#39;s stride. Due to the coupling configuration of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  at each of their ends, the closed path traveled by the foot pads  30  and  60  is generally elliptical in nature, with the majority of the path comprising a horizontal component, although a vertical component is also present. 
     The exercise machine  10  further comprises first and second drive components, shown as first and second cranks or crank arms  140  and  160  rotatably supported about the support structure  70  using any known means for supporting. It is contemplated that the present invention may be incorporated into any type of drive component capable of rotating about a pivot point in either a concentric or eccentric manner. However, for the purposes of discussion, the drive component will be described as a crank. The cranks  140  and  160  are preferably in a fixed relationship with respect to one another and are configured to travel along identical repeating circular paths about respective pivot points (see  FIG. 2 ). The first and second cranks  140  and  160  are also configured to be out of phase with one another by 180° in order to facilitate an alternating reciprocating motion within the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  and to simulate the natural alternating strides of a user. Each of the cranks preferably comprise a fixed or non-adjustable size or length. In addition, each of the cranks preferably comprise a relatively wide configuration to accommodate the various and adjustable coupling positions of the reciprocating foot supports. In the embodiment shown, the length to width ratio of the crank is about 2:1. 
     The present invention exercise machine  10  further comprises means for coupling the reciprocating foot supports to the drive components, respectively. The means for coupling is intended to couple each of the reciprocating foot supports to the respective drive components at a position that is radially offset from the pivot points of the drive components, thus allowing each of the reciprocating foot supports to traverse or travel about a closed path, wherein the closed path comprises a stride length. The stride length is dictated, at least in part, by the relative distance between the reciprocating foot supports and the pivot points of the cranks. The first ends  18  and  48  of the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  are rotatably supported about a distal or free end of the corresponding cranks  140  and  160  by a suitable coupling configuration. As so supported, the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  are allowed to move rearward and forward along a closed path during operation of the exercise machine  10 . 
     Means for coupling the reciprocating foot supports to the respective drive components may comprise a number of different coupling configurations, several of which are illustrated in the drawings and described herein. Generally, as shown in  FIG. 1 , one exemplary means for coupling comprises a coupling configuration  190  having first and second struts  194  and  206  coupled to and extending orthogonally outward from the cranks  140  and  160 , respectively. In some embodiments, the struts  194  and  206  maybe coupled directly to the cranks  140  and  160 . However, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the coupling configuration further comprises first and second links  220  and  240  rotatably coupled to the cranks  140  and  160 , wherein the struts  194  and  206  extend therefrom and are coupled thereto. The links  220  and  240  are provided as part of an adjustment system or assembly or mechanism discussed in greater detail below. The adjustment system or mechanism is a manual adjustment system. However, it is contemplated that adjusting the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  with respect to the pivot point of the crank, as discussed below, may be done electronically or automatically. 
     Each of the first and second struts  194  and  206  further comprise rotating collars  198  and  210 , respectively, configured to rotatably receive and couple the first ends  18  and  48  of the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , respectively. The rotatable collars  198  and  210  allow the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to rotate about an axis of rotation as coupled to the struts  194  and  206 , wherein the axis of rotation is offset from the pivot points of the cranks  140  and  160 . Thus, as the exercise machine  10  is operated and the first and second cranks  140  and  160  rotated along their respective circular paths, the offset position of the axes of rotation of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , as provided by the struts  190  and  206 , with respect to the pivot point of the cranks  14  and  44 , as well as the suitably supported second ends  22  and  52  of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , causes the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to traverse an elliptical closed path. 
       FIG. 1  further illustrates a housing  260  configured to enclose the various internal components of the exercise machine  10 , such as the crank assembly, any braking or transmission components, etc., as commonly known in the art. 
     The exercise machine  10  may be operated by placing the feet of the user in the respective foot pads  30  and  60  about the respective reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 . The rotational position of the cranks  140  and  160 , and the resulting position of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  about the reciprocating foot path are not important as the exercise machine may be started with these components in any position, To perform an exercising motion and to cause the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to traverse the closed path, the user initiates a striding action, which functions to induce a force upon the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to move them in a forward or backward direction, depending upon their initial starting position. Once a single stride has been completed, each reciprocating foot support changes direction to complete a stride in the opposite direction. Essentially, as one reciprocating foot support is moved forward, the other reciprocating foot support is moved backward under a combination of forces resulting from the fixed coupled relationship of the first and second cranks  140  and  160 , which causes a force to be applied to each reciprocating foot support from the opposite reciprocating foot support, from the swing arms  102  and  122  tending to apply a compression or tensile force to each of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  22 , respectively, and from the feet of the user applying a force on the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  18 . For example, with the exercise machine  10  in the position illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the user&#39;s gravitational mass, i.e., weight, placed predominantly on the first pad  30  of the first reciprocating foot support  14  causes the first crank ′ 140  to rotate downward, thus causing the reciprocating foot support  14  to move down and forward (during the first quarter of rotation of the crank  140 ) and down and rearward (during the second quarter or one-half of rotation of the crank  140 ). The gravitational force resulting from the user&#39;s weight being predominantly on the first reciprocating foot support  14  is transmitted to the first crank  140 , thus causing the first crank  140  to rotate in the clockwise direction (as viewed from the right side of the exercise machine  10 ) about its pivot point  110 . Conversely, the second reciprocating foot support  44  is being moved upward and backward and upward and forward as the crank  160  travels through one-half of its a rotation, with the second crank  160  functioning in a similar manner. The striding action performed by the user may be repeated as often as desired to achieve a series of strides for exercise. The alternating reciprocating motion of these two reciprocating foot supports provides a simulation of a more natural striding motion ˜hat the user might undertake. Indeed, the alternating reciprocating motion allows the user achieve a series of strides, much the same way one would during normal or modified gait. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the present invention further features or comprises means for varying the above discussed radial offset position of each of the first and second reciprocating foot supports with respect to the pivot points of the drive components for the specific purpose of varying the stride length realized during operation of the exercise machine  10 . Means for varying can comprise a number of assemblies, configurations, and/or mechanisms, each designed to selectively adjust the radial offset position of the reciprocating foot supports with respect to the pivot points of the respective drive components coupling the reciprocating foot supports. Preferably, several adjustment positions will be available, although a minimum of two is necessary to provide for at least two different stride lengths. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a simplified drawing of first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  as attached to the distal ends of first and second cranks  140  and  160  configured to rotate about first pivot axis  152  and  172 , respectively, thereby inducing a closed path  36  in each of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 .  FIG. 2  further illustrates an exemplary coupling configuration  190  operable with an exemplary adjustment mechanism. As shown, the coupling configuration  190  is similar to the one described above and shown in  FIG. 1  in that it comprises first and second rotatable struts  194  and  206  extending from rotatable links  220  and  240 , with each being configured to rotatably couple the first and second reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  about an axis of rotation, respectively. Each axis of rotation is shown as being concentric with the struts  194  and  206 . 
     The adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the stride length of the first and second reciprocating foot support  14  and  44  will most likely be the same. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , and with reference to the first reciprocating foot support  14  and its coupling configuration and adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism comprises a boss or pin  270  (only an end portion being shown as engaged with adjustment aperture  156 - a ) contained and supported within the strut  194  rotatably supported by the link  220 , wherein the boss or pin  270  is configured to selectively and releasably engage anyone of a plurality of adjustment apertures  156 - a ,  156 - b , or  156 - c  formed in the first crank  140 . The pin  270  is slidably contained within the strut  140  so as to be able to release from one adjustment aperture for insertion into another adjustment aperture. Once inserted into a selected adjustment aperture, the pin functions to temporarily fix the coupling arrangement and related position of the reciprocating foot support  14  about the crank  140 . 
     The pin  270  may be slidably coupled within the strut  194  using any known means (see  FIG. 8  for one exemplary embodiment). In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , the pin  270  is coupled to or otherwise formed with a handle portion  286  &#39;graspable by the user to facilitate the release of the pin  270  from the current adjustment aperture. Once released, the strut  194  may be relocated to another position by rotating the link  220  about its pivot point  234  until the pin  270  engages a different adjustment aperture. Rotation of the link  220  and insertion of the pin  270  into another adjustment aperture subsequently causes the radial offset position of the reciprocating foot support  14  to change with respect to the first pivot axis  152 , thus altering the stride length of the exercise machine  10 . For example, as shown, the pin  270  is inserted into the adjustment aperture  156 - a , which provides for the furthest available radial offset. However, to change the stride length, the user simply pulls on the handle portion  286 , thus releasing the pin  270  from the adjustment aperture  156 - a , rotates the strut  194  to align the pin  270  with anyone of the remaining available adjustment apertures  156 - b  and  156 - c , and then releases the handle portion  286  to cause the pin  270  to insert into or otherwise engage the adjustment aperture of choice. Since the radial locations of each of the various adjustment apertures about the crank  140  differ with respect to the first pivot axis  152 , the resulting radial offset of the reciprocating foot support  14  about the crank  140  is changed. How the stride length is affected by the described change in radial offset of the reciprocating foot support is discussed more fully below. 
     The second reciprocating foot support  44  comprises a similar coupling configuration and adjustment mechanism as just described, with a pin (not shown) being slidably contained within the strut  206  and configured to selectively engage one of a plurality of adjustment apertures, shown as adjustment apertures  176 - a ,  176 - b , and  176 - c , formed in the crank  160  upon rotating the link  240  about its pivot point  254  to reposition the strut  206  and align the pin with the desired adjustment aperture. The adjustment apertures function to define the several available adjustment positions. It is noted herein that the adjustment apertures formed in the cranks need not be through holes. In addition, any number of adjustment apertures is intended and contemplated herein, as is their radial location with respect to the first pivot axis. As such, those embodiments shown in the drawings and discussed herein are not meant to be limiting in any. way. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , illustrated is a detailed perspective view of the second crank  160  of the exemplary exercise machine of  FIG. 1  and the exemplary coupling configuration and adjustment mechanism just described. Specifically,  FIG. 3  illustrates the link  240  as being rotated about its pivot point  254  to a position away from the crank  160  so that the pin (not shown) is not engaged with any of the adjustment apertures  176 .  FIG. 3  also illustrates the strut  206  extending from the distal end  248  of the link  240  without the reciprocating foot support attached to illustrate the rotating collar  198 . The reciprocating foot support (not shown) comprises an axis of rotation  202  when coupled to the strut  206 . As can be seen, the axis of rotation is configured to be radially offset from the pivot point  172  of the crank  160  upon the pin (not shown) contained or supported within the strut  206  being aligned with and engaging anyone of the adjustment apertures  176 , as intended. 
     The crank  160  comprises a plurality of adjustment apertures, namely adjustment apertures  176 - a ,  176 - b , and  176 - c  formed therein. The adjustment apertures are each located at a different radial offset position so as to be able to adjust the relative offset position of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis when attached to the strut  206 . The adjustment apertures  176  may further be located along the longitudinal axis of the crank, or offset some length from the longitudinal axis of the crank. In this embodiment, the adjustment apertures are formed along a curve with the adjustment aperture  176 - a  being located in a radial offset position furthest from the first pivot axis  172  and in an offset position furthest from a longitudinal axis of the crank  160 . The longitudinal axis of the crank  160  (or drive component as referred to herein) may be referenced as running lengthwise along the crank  160 , through or intersecting the first pivot axis to symmetrically divide the crank  160 , as commonly known in the art. In this configuration, as the link  240  is caused to rotate about the pivot point  254  formed in its proximal end  244 , the pin contained within the strut  206  may be properly and selectively aligned with anyone of the adjustment apertures  176  simply by manipulating the link  240  into a position where the pin is capable of engaging the selected adjustment aperture. In other words, the relative distance of a center axis of the pin from the second pivot axis  254  corresponds to a relative distance of the center axis of each of the adjustment apertures from the second pivot axis  254 . Although the link  240 , as shown, traces a circular path, it may also be configured to trace an eccentric path, thus providing eccentric formation and location of adjustment apertures about the crank  160 . In addition, the adjustment apertures  176  may be oriented about a common linear axis, such as the longitudinal axis, depending upon the type of coupling configuration and adjustment assembly employed. 
       FIG. 3  further illustrates identifiers for assisting the user in identifying the stride length that will result from particular adjustments made. For example,  FIG. 3  illustrates that the exercise machine will comprise a stride length of 18 inches if the adjustment mechanism is set to engage the adjustment aperture  176 - a . Likewise, the stride length will be 14 inches if the adjustment mechanism is set to engage the adjustment aperture  176 - b , and 12 inches if set to engage the adjustment aperture  176 - c . Obviously, these stride length distances may be different depending upon the radial offset location of the adjustment apertures and the corresponding radial offset of the axis of rotation. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , illustrated are perspective views of an exercise machine according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the support structure and resulting foot print of the exercise machine are comprised in a relatively compact configuration, thus allowing the foot pads to be located near the first or proximal ends of the reciprocating foot supports. Specifically,  FIGS. 4 and 5  illustrate the exercise machine  10 - b  as comprising many of the same components of the exercise machine of  FIG. 1 . As such, many of these are not specifically discussed herein, but are instead incorporated by reference, where applicable. In this embodiment, the support structure  70  comprises a relatively compact design allowing the size of the exercise machine  10 - b  to be significantly reduced. As a result of the compact design, the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  comprise foot pads  30  and  60 , which are configured to be located between the first ends  18  and  48  and the second ends  22  and  52  of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , respectively, are located more about the first or proximal ends  18  and  48  of the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44 , which first or proximal ends  18  and  48  are defined as those nearest and coupled to the struts  194  and  206  used to relate and couple the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to the drive components or cranks  140  and  160 , respectively. 
     The exercise machine  10 - b  further comprises means for coupling the reciprocating foot supports  14  and  44  to the cranks  140  and  160 , which means may comprise several different types of coupling configurations. In addition, the exercise machine  10 - b  comprises means for varying its stride length, which means may comprise any number of adjustment systems or mechanisms. 
     The compact design of the exercise machine  10 - b  of  FIGS. 4 and 5  allows it to take up less room, which can be significant if used in a home setting. In addition, the ability to adjust or vary the stride makes a compact design economical and beneficial even to those having long strides, since the stride length can be adjusted to accommodate those users, while also accommodating users with shorter strides. 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , illustrated is a detailed view of the coupling configuration used to couple the proximal or first end  18  of the reciprocating foot support  14  to the crank  140 , as well as the adjustment assembly configured to facilitate the adjustment of the axis of rotation  202  of the reciprocating foot support  14  with respect to the first pivot axis  152 . As can be seen, these are similar to those discussed above with respect to the exercise machine  10  shown in  FIGS. 1-3 , such as the use of a strut  194 , which description is incorporated herein, where applicable. The coupling configuration of the exercise machine  10 - b , and particularly the link  220 , further comprises a guide pin  262  retained therein. The guide pin  262  is configured to slidably engage a corresponding slot  264  formed in the crank  140  to assist the rotation of the link  220  about its pivot point  234  back and forth between adjustments. The guide pin  220  also functions as a limiting member to limit the allowable travel distance of the link  220 . Thus, in one aspect, the ends of the slot  264  may serve as stoppers and may be configured to prohibit further rotation of the link  220 . The slot may also be configured so that each end stops the rotation of the link  220  at a position where the pin  270  is properly aligned to engage an adjustment aperture, such as adjustment aperture  156 - b.    
       FIG. 7  illustrates a detailed rear view of the crank  140  and the coupling configuration and adjustment assembly of  FIG. 6 . As shown, the link  220  is rotatably coupled to the crank  140  at its distal end  148  and rotated so that pin  270  is engaged within the adjustment aperture  156 - a . In this position, the guide pin  262  is adjacent one end of the slot  264 , thus preventing any further rotation of the link  220  away from the proximal end of the crank  140 . The configuration of the slot  264  and the guide pin  262  only allow rotation of the link  220  toward the proximal end of the crank  140  for the purpose of aligning the pin  270  with the adjustment aperture  156 ˜ b  to adjust the stride length, and particularly to shorten the stride length. 
       FIG. 7  further illustrates the retaining assembly used to rotatably couple the link  220  to the crank  140 . In the embodiment shown, the retaining assembly comprises a bushing  232  securely coupled within the crank  140  using any known securing means. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , the adjustment mechanism may comprise a strut  194  having a slidable or displaceable boss or pin  270  supported therein for selectively and releasably engaging one or more adjustment apertures  156 - a  and  156 - b  formed in a drive component or crank  140 . As shown, the strut  194  comprises a bushing or bearing  322  configured to rotatably couple an end portion of the reciprocating foot support  14 . The bearing  330  may be disposed within a support structure  326  in the form of a rotatable collar designed to receive the end of the reciprocating foot support  124  and facilitate its rotation, or it may comprise the exterior surface of the strut, being configured to receive a tube or collar formed on the end of the reciprocating foot support  14 . In any event, the present invention contemplates any known means or methods used to rotatably couple or otherwise relate the end of the reciprocating foot support  14  to the crank  140 . 
     The strut  194  further comprises a pin  270  supported within the strut  194 . The pin  270  is slidably supported. The pin  270  comprises a first end  274  extending from the strut  194  a suitable distance so as to engage a selected adjustment aperture  156 . The opposing second end  278  of the pin  270  is secured to a handle  286 . The handle is configured to be pulled by a user to retract the first end  274  of the pin  270  from the adjustment aperture  156  and to facilitate the repositioning of the pin  270  to engage a different adjustment aperture, such as adjustment aperture  156 - b . The pin  270  comprises a ledge  280  configured to engage a similar ledge  282  formed in the support structure of the strut  194 , thus preventing the pin  270  from being removed from the strut  194 . However, the ledges are spaced apart a sufficient distance to allow the pin  270  to extend and retract as intended. The strut  194  may further comprise biasing means, such as a spring  330 , configured to bias the pin  270  to its fully extended position, such as when inserted into an adjustment aperture. The biasing means functions to prevent inadvertent disengagement of the pin  270  from the selected adjustment aperture. 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , illustrated is a depiction of the closed path resulting from the rotation of the drive component and the relative offset of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the drive component, all according to one exemplary embodiment. As can be seen, the drive component, shown as crank  140 , is configured to travel about a circular path. In other embodiments, the drive component may travel an eccentric path. With one end of the reciprocating foot support  14  rotatably coupled to the crank  140  at anyone of a plurality of locations, the reciprocating foot support  14  comprises a resulting axis of rotation  202  radially offset from the pivot point  152  of the crank  140 . With the opposite end of the reciprocating foot support  14  rotatably supported at a pivot point  110  to move in any direction, the reciprocating foot support  14  traverses an oblong or elliptical closed path, shown as closed path  36 . 
     The crank  140  comprises a plurality of adjustment apertures, shown as adjustment apertures  156 - a  and  156 - b , formed therein as discussed above. These adjustment apertures are located at a radial offset position from the pivot point  152 . The reciprocating foot support  14  may selectively attach to either of these adjustment apertures depending upon the desired stride length. 
     When attached to the adjustment aperture  156 - a , the reciprocating foot support comprises an axis of rotation  202 - a  radially offset from the pivot point  152 , which radial offset is labeled as  1 . As the crank  140  is caused to rotate about the pivot point  152 , the axis of rotation  202 - a  at the radial offset  1  traverses about a radial path, which is depicted directly below the crank  140 , and labeled as first radial path  204 - a . This first radial path  204 - a  comprises a radial offset from the pivot point  152 , which radial offset comprises a distance R 1 . 
     Concurrent with the rotation of the crank  140 , the reciprocating foot support  14  traverses about a closed path, shown as closed path  36 - a . Radial path  1  traversed by the axis of rotation  202 - a  corresponds to closed path  1  traversed by the reciprocating foot support  14 . The closed path  36 - a  comprises a stride length having a distance L I , as measured from the two furthest opposing points situated about the closed path  36 - a  and intersecting a longitudinal axis of the closed path  36 - a . This distance LI is commonly referred to as stride length and is the length intended to be adjustable according to the teachings herein. 
     When attached to the adjustment aperture  156 - b , the reciprocating foot support comprises an axis of rotation  202 - b  radially offset from the pivot point  152 , which radial offset is labeled as  2 . As the crank  140  is caused to rotate about the pivot point  152 , the axis of rotation  202 - b  at the radial offset  2  traverses about a radial path, which is depicted directly below the crank  140 , and labeled as second radial path  204 - b . This second radial path  204 - b  comprises a radial offset from the pivot point  152 , which radial offset comprises a distance R 2 . 
     Concurrent with the rotation of the crank  140 , the reciprocating foot support  14  traverses about a closed path, shown as closed path  36 - b . Radial path  2  traversed by the axis of rotation  202 - b  corresponds to closed path  2  traversed by the reciprocating foot support  14 . The closed path  36 - b  comprises a stride length having a distance L 2 , as measured from the two furthest opposing points situated about the closed path  36 - b  and intersecting a longitudinal axis of the closed path  36 - b.    
     Reference letters A 1 -A 4 . represent the relative positions of the axis of rotation  202  and the reciprocating foot support  14  about their respective paths during operation of the exercise machine with the axis of rotation  202  set at the radial offset  1 . Likewise, reference letters B 1 -B 4  represent the relative positions of the axis of rotation  202  and the reciprocating foot support  14  about their respective paths during operation of the exercise machine with the axis of rotation  202  set at the radial offset  2 . 
     As can be seen, the stride length L 1  resulting from the axis of rotation  202  being set at the radial offset  1  is shorter than the stride length L 2  resulting from the axis of rotation being set at the radial offset  2 . The difference between these distances or stride lengths may be pre-determined and dependent upon the location of the various available radial offsets of the axis of rotation with respect to the pivot point  152  of the crank  140 . Nonetheless, utilizing the adjustment mechanisms described herein, the stride length is easily adjusted or varied simply by relocating or adjusting the radial offset of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the pivot point of the crank. 
     It will be obvious to one skilled in the art that the second reciprocating foot support (not shown) functions in the same way, even though such is out of phase 180° and is not specifically set forth herein. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 10-A  and  10 -B, illustrated is a coupling configuration according to another exemplary embodiment. In this particular embodiment, the reciprocating foot support  414  comprises in one end an engagement member  440  configured to be supported by the reciprocating foot support  414  and to releasably engage one or more corresponding receivers, such as a plurality of apertures or slots, formed within the drive component or crank  540  (see  FIGS. 11 and 12 ), which receivers or slots function to define at least two adjustment positions for locating the reciprocating foot support about the drive component  540 . The engagement member  440  is configured to releasably secure or couple to the crank using any suitable means known in the art. In one aspect, the engagement member  440  comprises a rotatable engagement member designed to releasably engage the receiver formed in the drive component and to rotate therein. In other words, the reciprocating foot support comprises and supports the rotation components configured to allow the reciprocating foot support to rotate about the crank. 
     In another aspect, the drive component itself comprises the necessary rotation components. For example, the receivers formed within the drive component and comprising the at least two adjustment positions may be configured with the rotation components needed for facilitating the rotation of the reciprocating foot support, and particularly the engagement member contained therein, about the crank at the various adjustment positions. 
     It is also contemplated that, with respect to this embodiment, the exercise machine will comprise a sufficient and capable coupling configuration configured to adequately support the reciprocating foot supports and their adjustability during use of the exercise machine. The types of coupling configurations that may be used for these purposes are not specifically set forth herein, but are well known in the art. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a drive component, in the form of a crank  540 , wherein the crank  540  comprises a plurality of receivers  544  configured to provide a plurality of 
     radial offsets for an axis of rotation, which radial offsets comprise distances r 1 , r 2 , and r 3 , respectively, with respect to the pivot point  552 . The receivers  544  may comprise adjustment apertures for receiving a boss or pin as discussed herein, or they may comprise other types of receivers configured to releasably engage a rotatable engagement member, such as the one shown in  FIGS. 10-A  and  10 -B and discussed above. The receivers  544  may be located along or offset from a longitudinal axis of the crank. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a drive component, also in the form of a crank  640 , wherein the crank  640  comprises a slot  642  formed therein, which slot further defines at least two adjustment positions for locating the reciprocating foot support about the crank. The slot  642  is formed at a radially offset position from the pivot point  652  of the crank  640  and is configured to slidably and rotatably and releasably engage a pin or rotatable engagement member, as discussed herein. Although not shown, the slot  642  may be formed on an incline, along a curve, or along the longitudinal axis of the crank  640 . 
     It is noted herein that the struts, as described above, may be utilized with or without a linking configuration. In other words, it is contemplated that the struts discussed above may be coupled directly to the drive components or cranks without the need for a connecting link. The struts in this configuration may still be adjustable by providing an adjustment mechanism or means for adjusting the struts between at least two adjustment positions with respect to the first or crank pivot axis. For example, the struts may be coupled directly to anyone the adjustment apertures formed in the drive component shown in  FIG. 11 , or the slot formed in the drive component shown in  FIG. 12 . In this configuration, the struts are designed to function in a similar way as discussed above, only without being coupled to a pivoting link. As such, it is contemplated that the struts will be appropriately secured to the drive component using a sufficiently strong and capable coupling configuration as known in the art. The types of coupling configurations that may be employed are not specifically set forth herein, as the primary focus of the invention remains the adjustability of the struts with respect to the first or crank pivot point to vary the offset position of the struts, and therefore the axis of rotation of the struts and the reciprocating foot support supported thereon, with respect to the first pivot axis. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method for varying stride length on an exercise machine. The method comprises step  704 , providing a coupling configuration configured to couple a reciprocating foot support to a crank at a position radially offset from a first pivot axis. The coupling configuration is similar to those described above. The method further comprises, step  708 , operating the exercise machine to cause the reciprocating foot support to define a radial path about the first pivot axis upon rotation of the crank, and to cause the reciprocating foot support to traverse a closed path having a stride length. As an additional step, the method comprises, step  712 , causing the coupling configuration to pivot between at least two adjustment positions to adjust the radial offset of the reciprocating foot support with respect to the first pivot axis for the purpose of varying the stride length of the reciprocating foot support. This method step involves utilizing a manual or electronic adjustment system or mechanism to accomplish the adjustment. As such, different individuals with different strides or stride lengths can use the same machine at the same level of comfort. The method further comprises adjusting the radial offset of the reciprocating foot support to accommodate a different user having a different stride length. 
     As generally noted above, the above-described present invention methods and systems may also be incorporated into a front mount or front mechanical-type exercise machine, wherein the drive component and/or crank assembly is supported about a front portion of the exercise machine, as commonly known in the art. With reference to  FIG. 14 , illustrated is a partial and general perspective view of a front mechanical-type exercise machine according to one exemplary embodiment. As shown, the exercise machine comprises first and second reciprocating foot supports  814  and  844  having foot pads  830  and  860  positioned thereon, respectively. The first ends  818  and  848 , respectively, are coupled to cranks  940  and  960 , which are configured to rotate about pivot points  952  and  972 , respectively, thereby inducing a closed path  36  in each of the reciprocating foot supports. Coupling configuration  990  functions to adjustably couple the first and second reciprocating foot supports  814  and  844  to the cranks  940  and  960 , respectively. In addition, an adjustment mechanism is provided to allow the radial offset of the axis of rotation of the reciprocating foot supports  814  and  844 , respectively, to be selectively adjusted. Each of these concepts are similar to those discussed above. They are configured to function in a similar way, the primary difference being that they are made operable on a front mount or front mechanical-type exercise machine, as indicated by the forward directional arrow. 
     The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein. 
     More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed description or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as nonexclusive. For example, in the present disclosure, the term “preferably” is non-exclusive where it is intended to mean “preferably, but not limited to.” Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; b) a corresponding function is expressly recited; and c) structure, material or acts that support that structure are expressly recited. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given above.