Patent Publication Number: US-11642584-B2

Title: Spacer system for a weight lifting apparatus

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/023,946 filed on Jun. 29, 2018 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/526,534 filed Jun. 29, 2017, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to weightlifting exercise machines, and more particularly to an apparatus for maximizing the user&#39;s range of motion on a Smith Machine, which has a guided weight bar or exercise bar used to simulate a free weight barbell. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Currently, there are several variations of Smith Machines in use including, but not limited to, some with vertical guide rods running perpendicular to the floor (an example of which is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,713,179), and also modified versions of Smith Machines that place the vertical guide rods at a plurality of varying slight angles relative to the floor. Additionally, there are other Smith Machines which have those and more variations of the vertical guide rods, including dual action systems which allow for vertical and horizontal exercise motions at the same time while doing exercise movements and weightlifting. 
     On Smith Machines, the barbell is typically similar to an Olympic barbell, which is horizontally mounted by connections on the left side and on the right side of the barbell to a vertical guide rod sleeve, which goes around the vertical guide rod on each side of the Smith Machine. The barbell typically has a latch, latch assembly, hook, or similar mechanism attached on its left and right sides, which the user can latch to stop the descent of the barbell. Generally, the latch is locked by rotating the barbell, or a part of the barbell wherein the hooks are attached, to latch the hooks into, onto, or over catches (e.g., catch slots, pegs, pins, or other catch points) on the left and right vertical frame members of the Smith Machine. Thus, if the user needs to stop the barbell from descending during Smith Machine exercises, they can latch the hooks with or onto the catch points. 
     In using conventional Smith Machines, the descent of the barbell is stopped by the user&#39;s ability to roll his/her wrists and/or hands to latch the hooks with the catches. Further, users who strive to increase their strength and lifting capacity do so by attempting to lift more weight than the heaviest they have ever lifted in the past or the user lifts the same prior maximum weight amount but increases the number of repetitions of the exercise to reach a personal best or personal record to grow stronger. In both scenarios, the user is attempting to lift more total weight (i.e., in weight on the barbell or number of repetitions) in a single exercise session than the user has lifted previously and increasing the total weight or repetitions increases the potential for the user to drop or otherwise have the barbell free fall under the stress of added total weight. 
     The user may drop or otherwise release the barbell causing it to free fall onto himself/herself due to many reasons, such as weakness in the arms, the slipping of one or more hands from the barbell, fatigue, failure to roll his/her wrists and/or hands to latch the hooks with the catches, and incomplete or partial latching that slips off the catches. A free fall of the barbell can cause significant injury to the user if the falling barbell drops onto or otherwise contacts the user&#39;s body. Generally, safety stops are used along the guide rods of the Smith Machine and positioned at a vertical height to stop the barbell before striking the user&#39;s body. If the barbell becomes unlatched or the user releases the barbell, the barbell will descend along the guide rods until the barbell guide rod sleeves come into contact with the safety stops if they are set at the appropriate height. With the safety stops appropriately positioned, the safety stops prevent contact between the free falling barbell and the user. 
     With conventional Smith Machines, the safety stops are spaced at equal height intervals around or adjacent to the guide rods. Thus, the user must latch the safety stops at the appropriate height so the barbell does not contact the user&#39;s chest, clavicles, shoulders, and other body parts (depending on the Smith Machine exercise). Because the safety stops catch heights settings are preset by the Smith Machine manufacturers evenly spaced at equal height intervals, the closest safety stop catch height for a desired exercise may be too low, allowing the barbell to come into contact with the user&#39;s body, and the next higher safety stop catch setting may be too high, causing the barbell to stop several inches above those respective body parts and depriving the user of their full extension range of motion and their full flexion range of motion during the Smith Machine exercise. This applies to a variety of Smith Machine exercises. 
     This creates a loss of tension or load that would be applied to the muscle during a full extension range of motion and full flexion range of motion during the exercise because the user could not bring the barbell as close to his/her body as possible, during the flexion and extension motions. This deprives the user of maximum tension on the muscle during full range of motion. As a result, the user is also deprived of movement fluidity. The ability to train any muscle through a full range of motion helps prevent future injury. 
     When the exercise involves a pressing or pushing of the barbell, or when the exercise involves a lifting or pulling of the barbell, that loss of an inch to several inches of range of motion on the barbell descent is matched by the loss of an inch to several inches where the barbell is raised. During that missed flexion range of motion and missed extension range of motion, the lost load is not applied to the muscle. The lost load that could have been applied to the muscle during the full range of motion is critical to maximize the growth of type 1 muscle fibers. 
     Further, if the muscles of the user get stronger through the shortened range of motion on a Smith Machine and the user then switches to free weight exercises, the user will likely not be able to lift as much load as he/she did on the Smith Machine. This could cause injury to the user because he/she is not used to the full range of motion free weight exercises with the same load. 
     Another problem with the safety stops on the Smith Machines is that Smith Machines are generated by numerous manufacturers. Although each manufacturer generally has a Smith Machine with equally spaced safety stop setting heights, the interval or distance between each safety stop setting height varies. For example, one company may have a Smith Machine with 4 inches between each safety stop setting height while another company may have a Smith Machine with 6 inches between each safety stop setting height. Thus, if a user performs exercises on two or more different Smith Machines, his/her shortened range of motion is constantly changing. Therefore, a user is forced to either exercise at various shortened ranges of motion or choose not to use to the safety stops, which puts the user at risk of injury. If the user chooses not to use the safety stops, the user may elect to lift less weight to decrease the risk of dropping the barbell, which deprives the user of the opportunity to achieve his/her personal best or personal record and improve strength and muscle development. 
     Therefore, there is a need for a system and method for a spacer system functioning with safety stops used on a Smith Machine, to maximize the user&#39;s range of motion. 
     All exercise definitions used herein, as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with review of this disclosure, are defined as described in Baechle, T., Earl, R. (2008).  Essentials of Strength and Conditioning . Omaha, Neb., National Strength and Conditioning Association. 
     Description of the Related Art Section Disclaimer: To the extent that specific patents/publications/products are discussed above in this Description of the Related Art Section or elsewhere in this Application, these discussions should not be taken as an admission that the discussed patents/publications/products are prior art for patent law purposes. For example, some or all of the discussed patents/publications/products may not be sufficiently early in time, may not reflect subject matter developed early enough in time and/or may not be sufficiently enabling so as to amount to prior art for patent law purposes. To the extent that specific patents/publications/products are discussed above in this Description of the Related Art Section and/or throughout the application, the descriptions/disclosures of which are all hereby incorporated by reference into this document in their respective entirety(ies). 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to spacer apparatus, inter alia, a spacer apparatus and spacer system for maximizing the user&#39;s range of motion on a weightlifting exercise machine, such as a Smith Machine, which has a guided weight bar or exercise bar used to simulate a free weight barbell. 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus is a spacer apparatus for a weightlifting exercise machine. The spacer apparatus includes a first interlocking part having a semi-circular body extending between top and bottom portions, and a lock portion extending between first and second ends of the semi-circular body. The first and second ends are spaced and a keyway is between the first and second ends. The spacer apparatus includes a second interlocking part having a body extending, at least partially, between first and second ends, and entirely between top and bottom portions. The body of the second interlocking part has a semi-circular portion with a key portion extending therefrom. In the interlocked configuration, the key portion of the second interlocking part extends between the keyway of the first interlocking part such that an outer perimeter of the first interlocking part and an outer perimeter of the second interlocking part are aligned. 
     In another embodiment, the spacer apparatus for a weightlifting exercise machine comprises a first interlocking part having a first semi-circular body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion with a first lock portion extending between a first end and second end of the first semi-circular body. A first male connector extends from the first end of the first semi-circular body and a first female groove extends into the second end of the first semi-circular body. A second interlocking part has a second semi-circular body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion with a second lock portion extending between a first end and second end of the second semi-circular body. A second female groove extends into the first end of the second semi-circular body and a second male connector extends from the second end of the second semi-circular body. In the interlocked configuration, the first male connector is connected within the second female groove and the second male connector is connected within the first female groove, forming a channel between the first semi-circular body and the second semi-circular body. In the interlocked configuration, the outer perimeter of the first semi-circular body and an outer perimeter of the second semi-circular body are aligned in a circle. 
     In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a spacer system for a weightlifting exercise machine. The spacer system comprises a first spacer apparatus, including: (i) a first interlocking part with a first body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion and between a first end and second end of the first body; wherein the first end and the second end are spaced; (ii) at least one keyway between the first end and second end; (iii) a second interlocking part having a second body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion, the second body comprising a key portion extending therefrom; wherein in the interlocked configuration, the key portion of the second body extends into the keyway of the first body such that a first channel is formed between the first interlocking part and the second interlocking part; and (iv) an object is slidably received by the first channel. 
     The spacer system may also include a second spacer apparatus, including: (v) a third interlocking part with a third body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion and between a first end and second end of the third body; wherein the first end and the second end are spaced; (vi) at least one keyway between the first end and second end; (vii) a fourth interlocking part having a fourth body extending between a top portion and a bottom portion, the fourth body comprising a key portion extending therefrom; wherein in the interlocked configuration, the key portion extends into the keyway such that a second channel is formed between the third interlocking part and the fourth interlocking part; and (viii) the object is slidably received by the second channel. 
     Each spacer apparatus of the spacer system can be added or otherwise installed around an object on an exercise machine, such as a guide rod of a Smith Machine, without disassembly of any of the component parts of the exercise machine. Further, each spacer apparatus of the spacer system can be added or otherwise installed through the use of one human hand, making each spacer apparatus easy-to-use. Further, each spacer apparatus used around a guide rod is totally comprised of two pieces, i.e., two total component parts, which also makes it easy-to-use. Finally, in use, each spacer apparatus produces a Vernier (defined herein as a measurement between two graduations on a scale and the ability to fine tune a larger machine with a smaller apparatus) stack height when on top of the safety stops once the safety stop is set at the preset setting heights for the safety stops on a Smith Machine. There are numerous Vernier stack heights achievable, depending on the number of spacer apparatuses in the spacer system and the length of each component piece (i.e., interlocking part) of each spacer apparatus. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       One or more aspects of the present invention are particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed as examples in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective front view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus of a spacer system in an interlocked configuration, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  2    is an elevated perspective side view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus in the interlocked configuration, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  3    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus in the interlocked configuration around an object, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  4    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus in the unlocked configuration, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a perspective side view schematic representation of the first interlocking part, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  5 B  is a back view schematic representation of the first interlocking part of  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 C  is a top view schematic representation of the first interlocking part of  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 D  is a cross-sectional view schematic representation at line A-A through the first interlocking part of  FIG.  5 C ; 
         FIG.  6 A  is perspective side angled view schematic representation of the second interlocking part, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  6 B  is a side view schematic representation of the second interlocking part of  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 C  is a front view schematic representation of the second interlocking part of  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 D  is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the second interlocking part of  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  7 A  is a perspective top elevated view schematic representation of the first interlocking part, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  7 B  is another perspective top elevated view schematic representation of the first interlocking part, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  8 A  is a perspective back elevated view schematic representation of the second interlocking part around an object, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  8 B  is a perspective side elevated view schematic representation of the second interlocking part around an object, as it is set on top of the first interlocking part, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  9 B  is a perspective side angled view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 C  is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a first or second interlocking part of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 D  is a perspective top angled view schematic representation of a first or second interlocking part of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 E  is a front (and/or back) view schematic representation of a first and second interlocking parts, interlocked, of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 F  is a perspective view schematic representation of a first interlocking part and a second interlocking part of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  9 A  moving from the unlocked to the interlocked configuration; 
         FIG.  10 A  is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus of  FIG.  3    with a cushion inlaid on its surfaces, in the interlocked configuration around an object, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  10 B  is a perspective top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the first interlocking part with a cushion inlaid on its surfaces, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  10 C  is another perspective top view schematic representation of the second interlocking part with a cushion inlaid on its surfaces, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  11    is a perspective front cut-away view schematic representation of the first interlocking part with a cushion, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  12    a perspective top elevated view schematic representation of the cushion attachment locations on the first interlocking part, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective top view schematic representation of cushions for the first and second interlocking parts, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  14 A  is a perspective side elevated view schematic representation of the cushion attachment locations on the second interlocking parts, according to the embodiment; 
         FIG.  14 B  is another perspective side elevated view schematic representation of the cushion attachment locations on the second interlocking parts, according to the embodiment; 
         FIG.  15    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a cushion for the spacer apparatus, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  16    is a side view schematic representation of the cushion of  FIG.  15   ; 
         FIG.  17    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a cushion for the spacer apparatus, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  18    is a side view schematic representation of the cushion of  FIG.  17   ; 
         FIG.  19    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of spacer apparatus, according to an additional embodiment; 
         FIG.  20    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of spacer apparatus according to another embodiment 
         FIG.  21    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a bushing accessory applied to the spacer apparatus, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  22    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a bushing accessory applied to the spacer apparatus, according to an additional embodiment; 
         FIG.  23    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a bushing accessory applied to the first interlocking part, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  24    is a perspective side angled view schematic representation of a bushing accessory, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  25    is a perspective top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the second interlocking part of  FIG.  19   ; 
         FIG.  26    is a perspective top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the second interlocking part of  FIG.  20   ; 
         FIG.  27    is a perspective elevated side view schematic representation of the first interlocking part of  FIG.  20   ; 
         FIG.  28    is a perspective elevated side view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus of a side entry embodiment; 
         FIG.  29    is a perspective side view schematic representation of the spacer system around one guide rod on top of a safety stop on a Smith Machine, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  30    is a perspective side elevated view schematic representation of the second interlocking part on top of a safety stop up against a guide rod of a Smith Machine, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  31    is an alternative perspective side elevated view schematic representation of the second interlocking part up against a guide rod and on top of a safety stop of a Smith Machine, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  32    is a perspective top angled view schematic representation of the first interlocking part around a guide rod of the Smith Machine, according to an embodiment 
         FIG.  33    is a perspective front view schematic representation of the spacer system on a dumbbell bar or dumbbell-like bar, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  34    is a close-up perspective front view schematic representation of the first end of the dumbbell in  FIG.  33   ; 
         FIG.  35    is perspective view schematic representation of a clip, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  36    is a perspective front view schematic representation of a user grasping the dumbbell of  FIG.  32   ; 
         FIG.  37    is a perspective front view schematic representation of the spacer system on a dumbbell, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG.  38    is a close-up perspective front view schematic representation of the first end of the dumbbell in  FIG.  37   ; 
         FIG.  39    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a first rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  40    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a second rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  41    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a third rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  42    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a fourth rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  43    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a fifth rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  44    is a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus according to a sixth rectangular embodiment; 
         FIG.  45    is a side view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus, is use, according to a U-shaped embodiment; 
         FIG.  46    is a side view schematic representation of a spacer system, is use, according to a U-shaped embodiment; 
         FIG.  47    is a top view schematic representation of a spacer system, is use, according to an alternative U-shaped embodiment; 
         FIG.  48    is a side view schematic representation of a spacer system, is use, according to a mixed embodiment; 
         FIG.  49    is a side view schematic representation of the spacer system of  FIG.  48   ; 
         FIG.  50    is a side view schematic representation of a spacer system, is use, according to an alternative mixed embodiment; and 
         FIG.  51    close-up view schematic representation of the spacer system of  FIG.  50   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Aspects of the present invention and certain features, advantages, and details thereof, are explained more fully below with reference to the non-limiting examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Descriptions of well-known structures are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the invention in detail. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific non-limiting examples, while indicating aspects of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, and are not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or arrangements, within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concepts will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure. 
     All exercise definitions used herein, as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with review of this disclosure, are defined as described in Baechle, T., Earl, R. (2008).  Essentials of Strength and Conditioning . Omaha, Neb., National Strength and Conditioning Association. 
     The present invention allows the user to achieve the most out of their exercises in a safe manner and when pushing themselves to the extreme to maximize their physical and strength development when using a weightlifting exercise machine alone. The present invention provides a portable, lightweight, and easy-to-use means to achieve a full extension and full flexion range of motion while doing exercises on the weightlifting exercise machine. An example weightlifting exercise machine, such as that shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,859, comprises basic features, including a weight bar (e.g., barbell) which extends horizontally on a pair of vertical guide tracks (e.g., guide rods). The machine can also comprise a safety catch or safety stop mechanism that latches onto pins (or other features or protrusions) located on upright brace supports, which are spaced from and aligned with the vertical guide tracks. The present invention can be added onto or otherwise installed on any such weightlifting exercise machine. However, for clarity, the present invention is described in detail below for addition or installation onto a Smith Machine, an exemplary type of weightlifting exercise machine. 
     Referring to the Figures, the present invention is an interlocking, incrementally, stackable spacer system to be used on Smith Machines to allow a user to get a full range of motion, and to allow the user to intentionally increase or decrease their range of motion at approximate one-inch increments so they can perform exercises until exhaustion and/or failure, thereby maximizing the user&#39;s range of motion, physical development, hypertrophy, and strength in a safe manner while doing Smith Machine exercises on Smith Machines alone. 
     Referring first to  FIGS.  1 - 2   , there is shown a perspective side elevated view and a perspective side elevated view schematic representations, respectively, of a spacer apparatus  20  of a spacer system, in an interlocked configuration. As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 2   , the spacer apparatus  20  comprises a first interlocking part  1 (A) in an interlocked configuration with an interlocking part  2 (B). The first interlocking part  1 (A) has a solid semi-circular or semi-tubular body  17 , with an outer length L 1 , extending between a top portion  51  and a bottom portion  52  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The body  17  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) also extends between a first end  21  and a second end  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) has a smaller, solid semi-circular or semi-tubular body  18 , with an outer length L 2 , extending between a top portion  53  and a bottom portion  54  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The body  17  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) also extends, at least partially, between a first end  23  and a second end  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) can be formed from metal for strength and durability; although other materials can be used for the spacer system construction. In the depicted embodiment, in the interlocked configuration, a channel  19  extends between and through the interlocked parts  1 (A),  2 (B) of the spacer apparatus  20 . In the depicted embodiment, the circular or tubular; however, any other suitable shape or configuration may be used. 
     The spacer system  100  (shown in  FIG.  29   ) may include may include one or more of the spacer apparatus  20  shown in  FIGS.  1 - 2   . In each spacer apparatus the length L 1  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) may be equal to, less than, or greater than the length L 2  of the second interlocking part  2 (A). In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS.  1 - 2   , L 1  is equal to L 2 . Further, L 1  and L 2  may vary for each spacer apparatus  20  in the spacer system  100 , as will be described in detail below. 
     Turning to  FIG.  3   , there is shown a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus  20  in the interlocked configuration around an object  6 , according to an embodiment. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  3   , the first interlocking part  1 (A) is in the interlocked configuration, interlocked with the second interlocking part  2 (B) (as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 2   ), but the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) are interlocked around an object  6 , such as a guide rod of the Smith Machine. In the depicted embodiment, the body  17  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises an outer perimeter  3 , which is substantially flush and aligned with an outer perimeter  8  of the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). In  FIG.  3   , the outer perimeters  3 ,  8  form a circle when the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) are in the interlocked configuration. In one embodiment, the outer perimeters  3 ,  8  are chamfered. Specifically, the edges where the first ends  21 ,  23  and the second ends  22 ,  24  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) meet the outer perimeters  3 ,  8  are chamfered. 
     Still referring to  FIG.  3   , the body  17  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) has an inner perimeter  4 . In one embodiment, the inner perimeter  4  is chamfered and in particular, edges of and where the first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) meet the outer countersunk perimeter  7  are chamfered. Similarly, the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) has as inner perimeter  10 . The edges where the first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) meet the inner perimeter  10  are chamfered, in some embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 - 3   , the interlocking parts  1 (A),  1 (B) comprise countersunk areas  5 . The first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a countersunk area  5  in the body  17  partially between its inner perimeter  4  and the outer perimeter  3 . Specifically, the countersunk area  5  in the body  17  extends between the inner perimeter  4  of the body  17  and an outer countersunk perimeter  7  of the body  17 . As shown in  FIGS.  2 - 3   , the outer countersunk perimeter  7  is between the inner perimeter  4  and the outer perimeter  3 . Similarly, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a countersunk area  5  partially between its inner perimeter  10  and outer perimeter  8 . Specifically, the countersunk area  5  in the body  18  extends between the inner perimeter  10  of the body  18  and an outer countersunk perimeter  7  of the body  18 . As shown in  FIGS.  2 - 3   , the outer countersunk perimeter  7  is between the inner perimeter  10  and the outer perimeter  8 . The countersunk area  5  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) extend within the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) such that a top surface  16  of the countersunk areas  5  is at a depth D relative to the top surfaces  25 ,  26  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), as shown in  FIG.  2   . In the depicted embodiment, the countersunk areas  5  comprise a flat top surface  16 ; however alternative textures are contemplated for the countersunk areas  5 . As shown in  FIG.  3    and recited above, the countersunk area  5  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) extend from the inner perimeters  4 ,  10  and extend to the outer countersunk perimeter  7  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B). Thus, in the interlocked configuration shown in  FIG.  3   , the outer countersunk  7  forms a circle. 
     It is important to note that in the interlocked configuration in the embodiment shown in  FIG.  3   , is a top and/or bottom view of the spacer apparatus  20  and the top and/or bottom view will appear the same as shown in  FIG.  3   . Thus, in the interlocked configurations, the top portion  51  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) may be aligned or otherwise adjacent the top portion  53  of the second interlocking part  2 (B), as shown in  FIG.  2   . Or, in another interlocked configuration, the top portion  51  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) is upright and aligned and interlocked with the bottom portion  54  of the second interlocking part  2 (B), when the second interlocking part  2 (B) is turned upside down (i.e., rotated 180 degrees). Or, in another interlocked configuration, the top portion  51  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) is turned upside down (i.e., rotated 180 degrees) and aligned and interlocked with the second interlocking part  2 (B) when it is upright with the top portion  53  on top. Or, in yet another interlocked configuration, the top portion  51  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) is turned upside down (i.e., rotated 180 degrees) and aligned and interlocked with the top portion  53  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) when it is turned upside down (i.e., rotated 180 degrees). Therefore, in the unlocked configuration, one (or both) of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) may be rotated 180 degrees and the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) can still achieve the interlocked configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  4   , there is shown a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus in the unlocked configuration, according to an embodiment. As shown, the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a key portion  11 , which extends from the countersunk area  5 , forming a “Y” shape in the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). In the depicted embodiment, the key portion  11  extends from the outer countersunk perimeter  7  of the body  18 . As also shown in  FIG.  4   , in the unlocked configuration, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a keyway  15 . The keyway  15  is a gap or other recess in the first interlocking part  1 (A) sized or otherwise dimensioned to accommodate the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the countersunk area  5  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a first pair of countersunk ends  13 . The countersunk area  5  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a second pair of countersunk ends  14 . In the depicted embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the keyway  15  extends starting from between the first and second ends  21 ,  22  at the outside perimeter  3  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) and up to the inner perimeter  4  and the first pair of countersunk ends  13  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). 
     From the unlocked configuration shown in  FIG.  4   , the “Y” shaped body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) is placed within the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) to achieve the interlocked configuration shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . In one embodiment, to place the body  18  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) into the keyway  15 , the body  18  is aligned over (e.g., at a height above) the keyway  15  of first interlocking part  1 (A) and is then slidably moved within the keyway  15  to achieve the interlocked configuration shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . In the interlocked configuration, as shown in  FIG.  3   , the outer perimeters  3 ,  8 , inner perimeters  4 ,  10 , and outer countersunk perimeters  7  are aligned. In the depicted embodiment, the outer perimeters  3 ,  8 , inner perimeters  4 ,  10 , and outer countersunk perimeters  7  form circles. However, alternative configurations for the perimeters are contemplated. 
     In addition, in the interlocked configuration shown in  FIG.  3   , the key portion  11  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) is substantially flush and aligned with a lock portion  12  of the body  17  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The lock portion  12  extends between the outer countersunk perimeter  7  and the outer perimeter  3  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). Further, the countersunk areas  5  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) are substantially flush and aligned. Specifically, the top surfaces  16  of the countersunk areas  5  are substantially flush and aligned at depth D from (or lower relative to) the top surfaces  25 ,  26  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), as shown in  FIG.  2   . In addition, in the interlocked configuration, as shown  FIG.  3   , the first pair of countersunk ends  13  abuts the second pair of countersunk ends  14  within the keyway  15 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D  and  FIGS.  6 A- 6 D , there are shown various views schematic representation of the first interlocking part  1 (A) and the second interlocking part  2 (B), respectively, with chamfered edges. Turning first to  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D , the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a first pair of edges  27  where the outer perimeter  3  meets the top surface  25  (and bottom surface (not shown)) of the lock portion  12  of the body  17 , a second pair of edges  28  where the outer countersunk perimeter  7  meets the top surface  25  (and bottom surface (not shown)) of the lock portion  12  of the body  17 , and a third pair of edges  29  where the inner perimeter  4  meets the top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D , the first, second, and third pair of edges  27 ,  28 ,  29  are chamfered. 
     Similarly, as shown in  FIGS.  6 A- 6 D , the second interlocking part  2 (B) also comprises a first pair of edges  31  where the outer perimeter  8  meets the top surface  26  (and bottom surface (not shown)) of the key portion  11  of the body  18 , a second pair of edges  32  where the outer countersunk perimeter  7  meets the top surface  26  (and bottom surface (not shown)) of the key portion  11  of the body  18 , and a third pair of edges  33  where the inner perimeter  10  meets the top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 D , the first, second, and third pair of edges  31 ,  32 ,  33  are chamfered. 
     In an embodiment, the chamfering placement in certain areas can be critical to the stability and safety of the spacer apparatus  20 . For example, in an embodiment of the spacer apparatus  20  of  FIGS.  5 A- 6 D  wherein in the interlocked configuration ( FIG.  2   ), a diameter of the channel  19  is 1.504 inches, a diameter of the circle formed by the outer countersunk perimeter  7  is 1.804 inches, a diameter of the circle formed by the outer perimeters  3 ,  8  is 3.205 inches, and a length (L 1  and L 2 ) of the spacer apparatus  20  is 2 inches, and offset load tested, the stability and safety data is provided in Table 1 below. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Safety and Stability Data 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Dropping 
                 Impact 
                 Maximum 
                 Factor of 
                 Factor of 
               
               
                 Weight 
                 Distance 
                 Force 
                 Stress 
                 Safety 
                 Safety 
               
               
                 (lbs) 
                 (ft.) 
                 (lbs) 
                 (psi) 
                 (7075 Al) 
                 (6061 Al) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 750 
                 7 
                 20,382 
                 14,208 
                 4.9 
                 2.5 
               
               
                 750 
                 6 
                 18,663 
                 13,011 
                 5.4 
                 2.7 
               
               
                 750 
                 5 
                 16,940 
                 11,810 
                 5.9 
                 3.0 
               
               
                 750 
                 4 
                 15,220 
                 10,610 
                 6.6 
                 3.3 
               
               
                 750 
                 3 
                 13,500 
                 9,411 
                 7.4 
                 3.7 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     A factor of safety (FoS) or, interchangeably, a safety factor (SF), is a measure describing the load carrying capacity of a system beyond the expected or actual loads. In other words, the FoS (or SF) is how many times stronger the system is than it needs to be for its intended load. In this example, as can be seen from Table 1, the 2-inch spacer apparatus  20  can withstand at least 2.5 times its expected load, when made of 6061 Aluminum, when 750 lbs is dropped from a height of 7 feet onto the spacer apparatus  20  with the contact area the end of a 2″ diameter “schedule  40  pipe.” The FoS (or SF) is only increased using a different type of aluminum composition (7075 Al) for the spacer apparatus  20 , also the FoS (or SF) is increased if using the same aluminum composition (6061 AL for example) but the height of the dropping distance is less. Thus, the data in Table 1 indicates that the spacer apparatus  20  is a substantially safe and stable spacer device for use on a Smith Machines. Further, the safety and stability, as shown in Table 1, is provided on a relatively small and portable spacer apparatus  20 . 
     The Safety and Stability Data in the corresponding exemplary chart above in Table 1 shows the testing results for the spacer apparatus(es)  20  used around only one barbell guide rod, and on top of the one safety stop, so the Factors of Safety or Safety Factors shown in the chart are only half of the actual total weight capacity of the spacer apparatus(es)  20  when used together at matching heights around each on each barbell guide rod and on top of the two safety stops found on the left and right. 
     The testing was done using 750 pounds being dropped at the noted heights for each guide rod. Since there are two guide rods with one on each side, the Factor of Safety or Safety Factor for the testing results actual apply to 1,500 pounds (750 plus 750 pounds for each side.) 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  7 A- 7 B , there are shown perspective top elevated views schematic representations of the first interlocking part  1 (A) of the spacer apparatus  20 , according to an embodiment. As described previously above and shown in the depicted embodiment, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a lock portion  12  and a countersunk area  5 . The countersunk area  5  extends at depth D within the lock portion  12  of the body  17 . In other words, the length L 1  of the lock portion  12  is greater than a length L 3  of the countersunk area  5  of the first interlocking part  1 (A), as shown in  FIG.  7 A . In the depicted embodiment, the pair of countersunk ends  13  are substantially aligned or parallel with a central longitudinal axis x-x which extends through the center of the spacer apparatus  20 . As also shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , the lock portion  12  has a pair of side end surfaces  9  on the first and second ends  21 ,  22 . In one embodiment, shown in  FIG.  4   , the end surfaces  9  extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis x-x extending through the center of the spacer apparatus  20 . In an alternative embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  5 A , the end surfaces  9  extend at an angle slightly acute ( FIG.  7 A ) or slightly obtuse ( FIG.  7 B ) relative to the central longitudinal axis x-x extending through the center of the spacer apparatus  20 . The first interlocking part  1 (A) may also comprise optional finger grips  35  and knurling  36  with grooves  37  on an outer side surface  38  of the lock portion  12  to assist in the user&#39;s handling of the first interlocking part  1 (A). 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  8 A- 8 B , there are shown perspective back and side views schematic representations of the second interlocking part  2 (B) around an object  6 . As shown in  FIG.  8 A , an object  6 , such as a guide rod, fits within the inner perimeter  10  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). As also shown in  FIG.  8 A , the top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5  is shown at depth D 2  relative to (or within) the key portion  11  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). In the depicted embodiment, the key portion  11  comprises knurling  36  on its outer side surface  39 . Further, in the embodiment shown, the key portion  11  also includes one or more finger grips  35  at the top and bottom portions  53 ,  54 . The embodiment shown in  FIG.  8 A  also comprises grooves  37  on the outer side surface  39  of the key portion  11 . Both the finger grips  35  and the grooves  37  assist a user in gripping the second interlocking part  2 (B) (and spacer apparatus  20 ). 
     As shown in  FIG.  8 B , the spacer apparatus  20  is shown in the unlocked configuration on an object  6 , such as a guide rod of a Smith Machine. In use, the first interlocking part  1 (A) is placed around the guide rod  6  of a Smith Machine. The guide rod  6  is placed within the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) such that the guide rod  6  abuts the inner perimeter  4  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) is placed above the first interlocking part  1 (A), abutting the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) is placed around the guide rod  6  such that the inner perimeter  10  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) abuts the guide rod  6 . To achieve the interlocked configuration (in  FIG.  3   ), the second interlocking part  2 (B) is rotated above the first interlocking part  1 (A) until its key portion  11  and the countersunk area  5  are aligned within the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) is then unobstructed and able to slide within the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). 
     Referring now to  FIG.  9 A- 9 F , there are shown various views schematic representations of a spacer apparatus  20  and its components, according to an alternative embodiment. Turning first to  FIG.  9 A , there is shown a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of a spacer apparatus  20  in the interlocked configuration, according to an alternative embodiment. As shown, the spacer apparatus  20  comprises a first interlocking part  1 (A) interlocked with a second interlocking part  2 (B). The first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) are substantially similar, and in some embodiments, identical. The first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) comprise an outer perimeter  3 , an outer countersunk perimeter  7 , and an inner perimeter  4 . The interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) each have a countersunk area  5  between the inner perimeter  4  and the outer countersunk perimeter  7 . The outer countersunk perimeter  7  is between the inner perimeter  4  and the outer perimeter  3 . The lock portion  12  of the first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) has a top surface  25  between the outer countersunk perimeter  7  and the outer perimeter  3 . A top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5  is at a depth D relative to the top surface  25  of the lock portion  12 , as shown in  FIG.  9 B . 
     Referring briefly to  FIG.  9 B , the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) both comprise male and female connections  11 ,  15  in the interlocked configuration. In the depicted embodiment, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a male connector  11  at a first end  21  of the lock portion  12  and a female groove  15  at a second end  22  of the lock portion  12 . Similarly, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a female groove  15  at the first end  22  of the lock portion  12  and a male connector  11  at the second end  21  of the lock portion  12 . However, interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) may, alternatively, both be rotated 180 degrees to interlock. Thus,  FIG.  9 C  shows either the configuration of both the first locking part  1 (A) or the second interlocking part  2 (B). 
     As shown in  FIG.  9 D , the male connector  11  and female groove  15  extend the entire length of the lock portion  12  from a top portion  51  of the body  17  to a bottom portion  52  of the body  17 .  FIG.  9 E  shows that countersunk area  5  has a length L 3  which is shorter than a length L 1   FIG.  9 D  of the lock portion  12 . Further,  FIG.  9 D  shows that the countersunk area  5  is at depth D relative to the top surface  25  of the lock portion  12  and the countersunk area  5  extends between, but not up to, the top portion  51  and the bottom portion  52  of the lock portion  12 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  9 E , the male connector  11  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) fits within or is otherwise interlocked within the female groove  15  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) and the male connector  11  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) fits within or is otherwise interlocked within the female groove  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) in order to achieve the interlocked configuration (shown in  FIG.  9 B ) of the spacer apparatus  20 . The male connectors  11  slide within the female grooves  15  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), as shown in  FIG.  9 F  to move the spacer apparatus from the unlocked configuration to the interlocked configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  10 A- 10 C  there is shown various views schematic representations of the spacer apparatus  20  with a cushion  40  inlaid and on surfaces  25 ,  26 ,  16  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, shown in  FIG.  10 A , the spacer apparatus  20  comprises a cushion  40 . A cushion  40  may be a washer or other similar device of a fabric, rubber, or other similar flexible material. The cushion  40  is used to alleviate possible stress between the spacer apparatus  20  and the barbell guide rod sleeve (not shown). In the depicted embodiment, the cushion  40  is placed on the flat surfaces  25 ,  26 ,  16  of the spacer apparatus  20 . In particular, the cushion  40  may be used on either, or both, a top surface  25 ,  26  (in  FIG.  10 A ) and a bottom surface (not shown) of the lock portion  12 , the key portion  11 , and a top surface  16  of the countersunk areas  5 . The cushion  40  may extend from the outer perimeters  3 ,  8  to the outer countersunk perimeter  7  of the first and second interlocking part  1 (A),  2 (B), respectively. The cushion  40  may also extend from the outer countersunk perimeter  7  to the inner perimeters  4 ,  10  of the first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), respectively. However, in some embodiments where the cushion  40  is used, the cushion  40  may only extend between or partially between adjacent perimeters and not up to and abutting each perimeter, as shown in  FIG.  10 A . 
     Turning now to  FIG.  11   , there is shown perspective side cut-away view schematic representation of the first interlocking part  1 (A) with a cushion  40 A and or  40 B, according to an alternative embodiment. While the cushion shown in the embodiment in  FIGS.  10 A- 10 C  is laid or adhered to the top surfaces  25 ,  26 ,  16  (and/or bottom surfaces (not shown)) of the spacer apparatus  20 , the cushion  40  in  FIG.  11    is connected within a track  41  on the spacer apparatus  40 . As shown in  FIG.  11   , a first track  41 A extends along a top surface  25  of the lock portion  12  and a second track  41 B extends along a top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5 . A first cushion  40 A is either fixed or slidably positioned within the first track  41 A on the top surface  25  of the lock portion  12  and a second cushion  40 B is either fixed or slidably positioned within the second track  41 B of the top surface  16  of the countersunk area  5 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  12   , is a perspective elevated view schematic representation of the cushion attachment locations on the first interlocking part  1 (A), according to an alternative embodiment. In the depicted embodiment, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a first continuous track  41 A extending along the outer side surface  38  from the first end  21  to the second end  22  at the top portion  51  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). In one embodiment, there may also be a second track  41 B extending along the outer side surface  38  from the first end  21  to the second end  22  at the bottom portion  52  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) (not shown) may also have similarly positioned tracks. A cushion  40 A, such as a washer shown in  FIG.  13   , is placed within the tracks  41 A (and/or  41 B) in the outer side surface  38  ( FIG.  12   ) along the first and second portions  51 ,  52  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). Again, a cushion  40 B (shown in  FIG.  13   ) may also be inserted into the similarly positioned tracks of the second interlocking part  2 (B). Due to the flexible nature of the cushions  40 A,  40 B, the cushions  40 A,  40 B may be installed by wrapping the cushions  40 A,  40 B around the outer side surfaces  38 ,  39  of the first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) and sliding the cushion  40 A into the tracks  41 A,  41 B (and cushion  40 B into the tracks of the second interlocking part  2 (B) (not shown)). 
     Referring to  FIGS.  14 A- 14 B , there are shown perspective side views schematic representations of the cushion attachment locations on the second interlocking parts  2 (B), according to the embodiment. The second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a first pair of tracks  41 A and a second pair of tracks  41 B. The first and second pair of tracks  41 A,  41 B extend through the key portion  11  of the body  18  second interlocking part  2 (B). In the depicted embodiment, one of the first pair of tracks  41 A and one of the second pair of the tracks  41 B extend through the outer side surface  39  of the key portion  11 . In addition, the other one of the first and second pair of tracks  41 A,  41 B extend through an inner surface  42  of the key portion  11  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). In the depicted embodiment, the tracks of the first pair of tracks  41 A are substantially aligned and the tracks of the second pair of tracks  41 B are substantially aligned. However, the tracks in the first and second pairs of tracks  41 A,  41 B may not be aligned. A cushion  40  may be slidably moved or snapped into each of the tracks of the first and second pairs of tracks  41 A,  41 B. 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  15 - 16   , there are shown various views schematic representations of a cushion  40  for the spacer apparatus  20 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG.  15   , the cushion  40  comprises a first cushion  40 A for the first interlocking part  1 (A) and a second cushion  40 B for the second interlocking part  2 (B). In the depicted embodiment, the first cushion  40 A is shaped and otherwise corresponds to the top surfaces  25 ,  16  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) and the second cushion  40 B is shaped and otherwise corresponds to the top surfaces  26 ,  16  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The first and second cushions  40 A,  40 B are in a stepped configuration such that countersunk portions  43 A,  43 B of the first and second cushions  40 A,  40 B are at a depth relative to the lock and key portions  44 A,  44 B of the first and second cushions  40 A,  40 B as shown in  FIG.  15   .  FIG.  16    is a side view of  40 A and  40 B in an interlocked configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  17 - 18   , there are shown various views of the cushion  40 , according to an alternative embodiment. The first and second cushions  40 A,  40 B shown in  FIGS.  15 - 16    are in a stepped configuration, while the cushion  40  shown in  FIG.  17    is flat. In other words, the cushion  40  has only one depth, as shown in  FIG.  18   . Accordingly, the cushion  40 , as described in the many embodiments above, may also be configured to correspond to the top surfaces  25 ,  16  of the embodiment of the spacer apparatus  20  as shown in  FIG.  3    and as also shown in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 G , wherein the spacer apparatus  20  comprises male connectors  11  and female grooves  15 . 
     Turning now to  FIG.  19   , there is shown a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of spacer apparatus  20  according to an additional embodiment. As shown in FIG.  19 , the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a pair of male connectors  11  and the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a corresponding pair of female grooves  15 . However, in other embodiments, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises the male connectors  11  and the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises the female grooves  15 . As with the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 F , the male connectors  11  and female grooves  15  extends the entire length of the first and second interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B). Further, as described in detail above with regard to the other embodiments of the spacer apparatus  20 , the second interlocking part  2 (B) slides within the first interlocking part  1 (A) to achieve a interlocked configuration. In the depicted embodiment, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises the pair of male connectors  11 A,  11 B on opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). A first male connector  11 A is on the first end  23  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) and the second male connector  11 B is on the second end  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) are tapered and are otherwise generally angled toward each other, as if from an external angle, as shown in  FIG.  19   . As such, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a pair of female grooves  15 A,  15 B on corresponding opposing first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The opposing first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) are also tapered, as if from an external angle, as shown in  FIG.  19   . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  20   , there is shown a top (and/or bottom) view schematic representation of the spacer apparatus  20 , according to another embodiment. As shown in  FIG.  20   , the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a pair of male connectors  11  and the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a corresponding pair of female grooves  15 . However, in other embodiments, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises the male connectors  11  and the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises the female grooves  15 . As described in detail above with regard to the other embodiments of the spacer apparatus  20 , the second interlocking part  2 (B) slides within the first interlocking part  1 (A) to achieve a interlocked configuration. In the depicted embodiment, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises the pair of male connectors  11 A,  11 B on opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). A first male connector  11 A is on the first end  23  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) and the second male connector  11 B is on the second end  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) are substantially parallel (with the exception of the male connectors  11 A,  11 B). As such, the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a pair of female grooves  15 A,  15 B on corresponding opposing first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The opposing first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) are also substantially parallel (with the exception of the female grooves  15 A,  15 B), as shown in  FIG.  20   . 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  25 - 27   , there are shown various views of a spacer apparatus  20  according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  19 - 20   . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer apparatus  20  utilizes a general top entry to achieve the lock configuration.  FIGS.  25 - 26    show top (and/or bottom) views of the second interlocking part  2 (B) of the spacer apparatus  20 . In the depicted embodiment, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a pair of male connectors  11 A,  11 B extending from opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). The opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) in  FIG.  25    are tapered or otherwise angled toward each other (with the exception of the male connectors  11 A,  11 B), as also shown in  FIG.  19   . The opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) in  FIG.  26    are substantially parallel (with the exception of the male connectors  11 A,  11 B), as also shown in  FIG.  20   .  FIG.  27    shows a perspective top view of the first interlocking part  1 (A) of the top entry embodiment. The second interlocking part  2 (B) of  FIG.  26    can be interlocked within the first interlocking part  1 (A) of  FIG.  27    by sliding the second interlocking part  2 (B) into the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). A first interlocking part  1 (A) with angled or tapered first and second ends  21 ,  22 , as shown in  FIG.  19   , can be similarly interlocked with the second interlocking part  2 (B) of  FIG.  25   . 
     Turning now to  FIG.  21 - 22   , there are shown top (and/or bottom) views schematic representations of a bushing accessory  45  applied to the spacer apparatus  20 . As shown in  FIGS.  21 - 22   , the bushing accessory  45  abuts or is fixed to the inner perimeters  4 ,  10  of the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B), respectively. An exemplary embodiment of the bushing accessory  45  is shown in  FIG.  24   . The bushing accessory  45  has a flat top portion  46  and flat bottom portion  47  with a length of material  48  extending therebetween. The flat top portion  45 , flat bottom portion  47 , and length of material  48  comprise a first portion  49 A and a corresponding second portion  49 B. When the first portion  49 A abuts the second portion  49 B, the flat top portion  45 , flat bottom portion  47 , and the length of material  48  form an enclosed channel  50  in the interlocked configuration, as shown in  FIG.  24   . 
     In use, the first portion  49 A of the bushing accessory  45  is placed along the inner perimeter  4  of the first interlocking part  1 (A), as shown in  FIG.  23   . Similarly, the second portion  49 B of the bushing accessory  45  is placed along the inner perimeter  10  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) (not shown). In use, the first and second portions  49 A,  49 B of the bushing accessory  45  surrounds an object  6 , such as a guide rod of the Smith Machine, as shown in  FIGS.  21 - 22   . 
     Turning now to  FIG.  28   , there is shown a perspective top angled view of the spacer apparatus  20  of a side entry embodiment. In the depicted embodiment, the second interlocking part  2 (B) comprises a pair of male connectors  11 A,  11 B (not shown because of angle) extending from the opposing first and second ends  23 ,  24  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) and the first interlocking part  1 (A) comprises a pair of female grooves  15 A,  15 B extending into the opposing first and second ends  21 ,  22  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). The second interlocking part  2 (B) is interlocked within the first interlocking part  1 (A) by sliding the second interlocking part  2 (B) into the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  29 - 32   , there are shown various views schematic representations of the spacer system  100  as in use on one side and around one guide rod  6  of a Smith Machine  60 . As shown in  FIG.  29   , the first, second, and third spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C of the spacer system  100  are in the interlocked configuration around a guide rod  6  of the Smith Machine  60  on top of a safety stop sleeve  61 . The Smith Machine  60  in the depicted embodiment comprises the safety stop sleeve  61  and a hook  62  latched into a slot  63  on a frame member  64  of the Smith Machine  60 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the first spacer apparatus  20 A has a first height (the larger of L 1 (A) and L 2 (A)), the second spacer apparatus  20 B has a second height (the larger of L 1 (B) and L 2 (B)), and the third spacer apparatus  20 C has a third height (the larger of L 1 (C) and L 2 (C)). In the depicted embodiment, the size of the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C are relative to the heights as follows: L 1 (A)&lt;L 1 (B)&lt;L 1 (C) and L 2 (A)&lt;L 2 (B)&lt;L 2 (C). In the depicted embodiment, L 1 (A)=L 2 (A), L 1 (B)=L 2 (B), and L 1 (C)=L 2 (C). For example, L 1 (A)=L 2 (A)=1 in., L 1 (B)=L 2 (B)=2 in., and L 1 (C)=L 2 (C)=3 in. Thus, the user can selectively use the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C to increase (or decrease) the height of the spacer system  100  at 1 in., 2 in., 3 in., 4 in., 5 in., and 6 in. increments. Therefore, a barbell on a guide rod  6 , for example, can come to rest at 1-inch increments within the range of 1-6 inches when the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C are used individually or in combination. However, in another example, the user may interchange a second interlocking part  2 (B) of first spacer apparatus  20 (A) with a second interlocking part  2 (B) of the second spacer apparatus  20 (B) such that the first interlocking part  1 (A) of the first spacer apparatus  20 (A) interlocks with the second interlocking part  2 (B) of the second spacer apparatus  20 (B). Then, in order to evenly stack the first spacer apparatus  20 (A) and the second spacer apparatus  20 (B), the user may also interlock the second interlocking part  2 (B) of the first spacer apparatus  20 (A) with the first interlocking part  1 (A) of the second spacer apparatus  20 (B). Thus, the interlocking parts  1 (A),  2 (B) of the three spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C can be interchanged and still form an evenly stacked spacer system  100 . The user may also utilize any single or combination of the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C, such that one, any two, or all three spacer apparatus  20 A,  20 B,  20 C are simultaneously utilized. 
     In  FIG.  30   , the second interlocking part  2 (B) of the first spacer apparatus  20 A is positioned around the guide rod  6  and on top of the safety stop sleeve  61 . In particular, the inner perimeter  10  of the second interlocking part  2 (B) abuts the guide rod  6 .  FIG.  31    shows an alternative perspective side view of the second interlocking part  2 (B) of  FIG.  30   .  FIG.  32    shows a perspective top elevated view of the first interlocking part  1 (A) around a guide rod  6  on top of a safety stop sleeve  61 . In the depicted embodiment, the first interlocking part  1 (A) surrounds the guide rod  6  such that the inner perimeter  4  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) abuts the guide rod  6 . 
     A user can lock the first spacer apparatus  20 A around the guide rod  6  by placing the second interlocking part  2 (B) through the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A). Similarly, the keyway  15  of the first interlocking part  1 (A) may be slidably moved over the key portion  11  of the second interlocking part  2 (B). 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  33 - 38   , there are shown various views schematic representations of the spacer system  100  in use on a dumbbell bar  70  for ease of handling, transporting, and storing. Similar to the placement of the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C around the guide rod  6  in  FIGS.  29 - 32   , the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C (not shown) can be interlocked around a dumbbell bar  70 , pole, rod, or other cylindrical object for ease of handling, storing, and transporting. In some embodiments, a securing mechanism, such as the clip  71  shown in  FIG.  35    is used to secure the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C (not shown) around the dumbbell bar  70 . Note, the embodiment of the clip  71  shown in  FIGS.  33 ,  34 ,  35  and  36    is an exemplary conventional and known clip. As shown in  FIG.  35   , the clip  71  prevents the spacer apparatuses  20 A,  20 B,  20 C (not shown) from sliding off an end  72 ,  73  of the dumbbell bar  70 . With a clip  71  on both ends  72 ,  73  of the dumbbell bar  70 , the user may easily transport the spacer system  100 , as shown in  FIG.  36   . If the spacer system  100  is composed of a heavy metal material, the loaded dumbbell bar  70  shown in  FIGS.  36 - 37    may also be used to perform weightlifting exercises. 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  37 - 38   , there is shown various views schematic representations of an alternative embodiment of a securing mechanism. In the depicted embodiment, the securing mechanism comprises threads  74  on both ends  72 ,  73  of the barbell  70  and a connector  71  having corresponding threads. As shown in  FIGS.  37  &amp;  38   , the connector  71  is secured to the barbell  70  by rotating the connector  71  around the threads  74  at the ends  72 ,  73  of the barbell  70 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  39 - 44   , there are shown various views of a rectangular embodiment of the spacer apparatus  20 . The rectangular embodiment of the spacer apparatus  20  may be used around a rectangular or square guide rod box  6 , as shown in  FIGS.  39 - 44   . Rectangular embodiments of the spacer apparatus  20  may comprise a first interlocking part  1 (A) with two male connectors  11 A,  11 B and a second interlocking part  2 (B) with two female grooves  15 A,  15 B, as shown in  FIGS.  42  and  44   . The spacer apparatus  20  may also comprise a first interlocking part  1 (A) with two female grooves  15 A,  15 B and a second interlocking part  2 (B) with two male connectors  11 A,  11 B, as shown in  FIGS.  39 ,  41   . In other rectangular embodiments, the spacer apparatus  20  comprises interlocking part  1 (A),  2 (B) with both one male connector  11  and one female groove  15 , as shown in  FIGS.  40  and  43   . 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  45 - 47   , there are shown various views of a “U” shaped spacer system  100 . The “U” shaped spacer system  100  relies on a nesting configuration to interlock over a safety stop  81  of the Smith Machine. In the depicted embodiment, the spacer apparatuses  80  are U-shaped and rectangular with approximately 90-degree edges. A first spacer  80 A can be placed over and partially around the safety stop  81  of the Smith Machine, such that a barbell  6  moving downward will have its descent stopped when the bottom of the barbell  82  comes into contact with the top of the first spacer apparatus  80 A as it sits on the safety stop  81 . A second spacer  80 B and a third spacer  80 C may be stacked on the first spacer  80 A in a nesting configuration. Thus, the third spacer  80 C is larger than the second spacer  80 B, which is larger than the first spacer  80 A. Keyways  15 , cushions  40 , and other elements, such as those described in spacer apparatus  20  embodiments described above, can be incorporated into the top flat edge  82  of the U-shaped spacers  80 A,  80 B,  80 C, as shown in  FIG.  47   .  FIGS.  48 - 51    show a U-shaped spacer apparatus  80  with additional spacer apparatuses,  90 A and  90 B which are not U-shaped but which are bar-shaped, and attach to the top of each other and to the top of U-shaped spacer apparatus  80 A by various keyways  15  to add additional height to the U-shaped spacer apparatus  80 . 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as, “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”), and “contain” (any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a method or device that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more steps or elements. Likewise, a step of method or an element of a device that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not listed. 
     The corresponding structures, materials, acts and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below, if any, are intended to include any structure, material or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of one or more aspects of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand one or more aspects of the present invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.