Patent Publication Number: US-2023142765-A1

Title: Multipurpose exercise device for replicating exercise motions for sports and physical therapy

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Divisional application of U.S. Ser. No. 17/188,304 filed on Mar. 1, 2021, now U.S. patent Ser. No. 11/554,306 issued on Jan. 17, 2023, which is a Divisional application of U.S. Ser. No. 16/429,020 filed on Jun. 2, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,967,237, which is a Continuation-in-Part application of U.S. Ser. No. 16/221,535 filed on Dec. 16, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,967,220, which claims priority of provisional applications 62/682,959 filed on Jun. 10, 2018 and U.S. Ser. No. 62/607,352 filed on Dec. 19, 2017. This application also claims priority of provisional applications 62/682,959 filed on Jun. 10, 2018. The entire disclosures of each these applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     SPECIFICATION 
     Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to a multipurpose exercise device used to simulate the movements and motions of athletes in sports, for example, skiers, snowboarders, skateboarders, surfers, kite boarders, water skiers, wake-boarders. The exercise device may be used in training by motion sports athletes and by other recreational athletes. It can also be used in medicine and physical therapy and may be coupled or integrated into a CPU (Computer Processing Unit), computer, game console, Virtual Reality glasses, tablets, and/or video monitor to allow for an interactive experience. 
     Background of the Invention 
     The following references may be relevant to this invention:
     U.S. Pat. No. 1,565,484 to McWhirter   U.S. Pat. No. 2,714,007 to Jordan   U.S. Pat. No. 3,791,645 to Stelma   U.S. Pat. No. 4,376,532 to Hunstad   U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,986 to Kucharik   U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,364 to Eggenberger   U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,272 to Hofmeister   U.S. Pat. No. 5,062,629 to Vaughan   U.S. Pat. No. 5,147,257 to Loane   U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,871 to Giovanni   U.S. Pat. No. 6,413,197 to McKechnie   U.S. Pat. No. 7,344,483 to Tacconi   U.S. Pat. No. 7,614,987 to Guadagno   U.S. Pat. No. 7,959,544 to Palmer   US 2009/0176631 to Blessing   US 2014/0155236 to Curry.   JP 2015-167849 to Shigeo   

     The following non-patent references may or may not be effective prior art.
     skiersedge.com Technical ski conditioner (NPL1)   youtu.be/3u8d7UUWytc Skiers Edge Technical ski conditioner You Tube video (NPL2)   stepsscarve.com/Step Carve website (NPL3)   

     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The exercise device of this invention is a multipurpose exercise device used to replicate the movements and motions of athletes in several sports. The exercise device may be used in training, physical therapy and medicine. A broad segment of the population can use the device for many purposes. For example, the device users can utilize it to improve their general level of fitness, physical health and balance, and to exercise major groups of muscles, e.g., abs, lateral abdominal muscles, “quads” (quadriceps), “glutes” (gluteal muscles) and calves. 
     The exercise device of this invention is particularly useful for “motion sport” athletes, such as skiers, snowboarders, skateboarders, surfers, kite boarders, water skiers, wake boarders, etc. The exercise device can help them to improve balance, retain or enhance strength and improve muscles that are utilized in the sports. 
     The exercise device of this invention is also useful, under a medical practitioner&#39;s guidance, for improving balance, muscle and joint strength, treating joint and muscle impairments, increasing joint and muscle mobility and function, and treating certain medical and neurological disorders, such as vertigo, dizziness, Parkinson&#39;s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke recovery, etc. 
     Additionally, the exercise device of this invention may be coupled with or integrated with a video or internet game for dual purpose of playing the game and at the same time engaging in exercises to improve the individual&#39;s level of fitness. 
     Broadly, the exercise device of this invention includes a stable base that rests on a substantially horizontal support surface, e.g., floor, lawn, etc. A support post is mounted to the top of the base and a user platform is mounted to the top of the support post. The exercise device of this invention uses a synergistic balance of resistance elements (e.g., dampers, pistons, elastic bands, springs, or other types of resistance as further described herein) and pivot points to create a smooth, realistic simulation of the real world movements in specific sports activities. The user&#39;s body is positioned on the user platform and the location and action of the user&#39;s feet and body determine the motions of the user platform to provide the desired exercise movements. 
     More specifically, the exercise device of this invention comprises a base having an upper surface and lower surface, the lower surface resting on a substantially horizontal support surface. A user platform is provided having a lower surface and an upper surface upon which the user stands. A support post, which may be T-shaped, is also provided and consists of an upper cross bar section with vertical pivots and a vertical column section below the cross bar section. The support post is mounted to the base and the vertical column section or cross bar section axially pivots on the base. The lower surface, sides or other parts of the user platform are mounted to vertical pivots in the cross bar section of the support post. The user platform thus pivots with the support post in a horizontal plane parallel to the horizontal support surface. Additionally, the user platform pivots on the support post in a vertical plane perpendicular to the horizontal support surface. A plurality of resistance elements having a first end and a second end are provided. The first end is mounted to the support post or user platform and the second end is mounted to the base to control the resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the horizontal plane. Optionally, at least one of the resistance elements is adjustable to further control the resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the horizontal plane. Optionally, at least one dampening element is provided having a first end and a second end, the first end is mounted to the support post or user platform and the second end is mounted to the base to control the resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the horizontal plane. Optionally, a plurality of resistance elements having a first end and a second end are provided with the first end mounted to the base or support post and the second end mounted to the user platform to control the resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the vertical plane. Optionally, at least one of the resistance elements is adjustable to further control the resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the vertical plane. In use, the user stands on the upper surface of the user platform and performs exercise motions to propel the user platform to pivot in the horizontal plane and the vertical plane. 
     Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become even more apparent with reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective schematic representation of the exercise device  100  of the present invention showing a user  110  positioned on a user board  120 , that is mounted on top of a user platform  146  which in turn is mounted to a base  150  that rests on a substantially horizontal support surface. 
         FIG.  2    is a view similar to  FIG.  1    wherein the range of movements and articulation of the exercise device  100  have been added, i.e. vertical pivot around the horizontal axis A-A and horizontal pivot around the vertical axis B-B. 
         FIG.  3    is a top plan view of the user board  120  shown in  FIG.  2    showing the range of pivot movements of the user board  120  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B shown in  FIG.  2   . The user platform  146  (not shown) under the user board  120  conforms to or follows the movements of the user board  120 . 
         FIG.  4    is an end view of the user board  120  shown in  FIG.  2    showing the range of pivot movements of the user board  120  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A shown in  FIG.  2   . The user platform  146  (not shown) under the user board  120  conforms to or follows the movements of the user board  120 . 
         FIG.  5    is a side view of the user board  120  shown in  FIG.  2    showing the range of movements of the user board  120  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A shown in  FIG.  2   . The user platform  146  (not shown) under the user board  120  conforms to or follows the movements of the user board  120 . 
         FIGS.  6 A through  6 E  are schematic top views of the user board  120  depicting a variety of possible foot placement positions  130  on the user board  120  that drive the vertical and horizontal pivot motions of the user board  120  and user platform  146 . Foot mounts (not shown) can be mounted directly on the user board  120  or on the user platform  146  if the user board  120  is not used. 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the exercise device  100  of this invention wherein the exercise device  100  communicates through sensors  180  integrated into the device  100  (e.g., the user board, user platform or both) to transmit (wired or wireless) the motion, velocity, acceleration of motion and/or position of the user board  120  and/or the user platform  146  to a CPU (Computer Processing Unit), game console, tablet, Virtual Reality glasses, computer  181  and/or video monitor  182  to allow for an interactive experience that may include data compilation on the exercise motions. 
         FIGS.  8  through  16    illustrate an embodiment of the exercise device  200  of this invention that incorporates the use of the dampening piston strut  248  and a plurality of vertical resistance springs  221  and horizontal resistance springs  237  (or other types of resistance elements as further described herein) to enable control of resistance around the horizontal and vertical pivots of the user platform  246  about the support post  240  that supports and mounts the user platform  246  to the base  250 . This embodiment does not include any guiding mechanism to control the angle of vertical pivot or tilt of the user-platform  246  around the horizontal axis A-A. 
         FIGS.  17  through  30    illustrate an embodiment of the exercise device  300  of this invention, which includes the same components as embodiment  200 , except the exercise device does not include vertical resistance elements  221  to control the resistance to vertical pivot or tilt of the user platform  346  about the support post  340  and around the horizontal axis A-A. Additionally, this embodiment includes a linkage mechanism to control the angle of vertical pivot or tilt of the user-platform  346  around the horizontal axis A-A. 
         FIGS.  31 - 34    show several embodiments of the exercise device of this invention  400  illustrating various alternative adjustable linkage mechanisms to control the angle of the vertical tilt or pivot of the user-platform  446  around the horizontal axis A-A (i.e., to control the angle of pivot of the user platform  446  in the vertical plane). 
         FIGS.  35 A and  35 B  through- 38  are images illustrating an embodiment of the exercise device of this invention  500  whereby the vertical tilt or pivot of the user-platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis (i.e., angle of pivot of the platform  546  in the vertical plane) is controlled by adjustable or removable arced set of ramps, rails or tracks  590  and mating rollers (bearing wheels)  592 . 
         FIGS.  39 - 40    illustrate the exercise device of this invention  600  with alternative designs of the support post  640 . The support post  640  is connected to a spherical bearing/ball joint  684  that provides interface between the support post  640  and the user platform  646 . The spherical bearing/ball joint  684  allows the user platform  646  to rotate with a complete degree of freedom in any direction, including up, down, left or right. However, any ramps, rails or linkage mechanisms described herein would limit the degree of freedom of rotation of the user platform  646 . The support post with a spherical bearing/ball joint can be incorporated in any embodiment of this invention from  100  through to  500  described herein. 
         FIGS.  41  through  43    illustrate an embodiment of the exercise device  700  of this invention, which includes electronic alternator-based system of horizontal resistance of the user platform  746 . This alternator-based resistance system can be incorporated in any embodiment of this invention from  100  through to  600  described herein. 
         FIGS.  44  through  48    illustrates another embodiment of the exercise device  800  of this invention that represents any pair of the previously described exercise devices  100  through  700  mounted on a common mounting base. A user can place one foot on the user platform of one device and the other foot on the user platform of the other device and operate the devices independently of other. 
     
    
    
     The drawings are not presented to scale but are only used to illustrate the principles of the invention. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate like elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     FIGS.  1 - 7  Schematic 
     The broad concept and principles of the exercise device of the present invention can be seen schematically in  FIGS.  1  through  7   . The exercise device  100  is a multipurpose exercise device for replicating exercise motions for a user for a plurality of sports and physical therapy. Referring to  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the exercise device  100  includes a base  150  that rests on a surface, e.g., floor, lawn, etc. The exercise device has a user platform  146  that is mounted to the top of the base  150 . The user platform  146  has a lower surface and an upper surface. The lower surface of the user platform  146  is mounted to the upper surface of the base by a support post (not shown). The support post permits the user platform to pivot around the support post in a horizontal plane (i.e. parallel to the horizontal support surface the base  150  rests upon) and vertical plane (i.e. perpendicular to the horizontal support surface). A user board  120  (as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 7   ), ski module or snowboard module (as further described herein) can be mounted on top of the user platform  146 . The user platform  146 , user board  120 , snowboard module and ski module can be designed in various shapes and forms (e.g. in the shape of a snowboard, wakeboard, etc.) to simulate a variety of sports, e.g., snow-sports, water-sports, land-based sports. In use, the user stands on top of the user platform, for example on foot mounts  130  that may be mounted directly on the user board  120  or on the user platform  146 . The foot mounts  130  can also take different shapes or forms and can be simple footplates or placeholders made from materials that prevent slippage, or they can be mounts for ski-boots, snow-board boots and water ski foot inserts. 
     It should be understood that the use of the term user board and user platform in describing  FIGS.  1 - 7    are used to emphasize the fact that this invention contemplates the use of one or a of plurality of platforms that can be mounted on top of the support post and/or on top of each other. These platforms may contain electronic and digital components therein (or thereon) for use with the exercise device, there may be an additional user platform that is designed for cushioning or structural support or that provides another degree of horizontal (or even vertical) pivoting to the exercise device (see e.g.  FIGS.  29 - 30   ). This invention does not exclude these possibilities for multiple platforms. However, for the sake of brevity this application uses the term user platform most of the time to discuss the relationship of the platform(s) with the remaining elements of the exercise device  100 . 
     The user&#39;s  110  body positions on the user board  120  and the location and action of the user&#39;s feet on foot mounts  130  and body motion determine the motions and coaction, and propel the user platform  146 , user board  120  and the support post (not shown) to provide the desired exercise motions. The user platform  146 , user board  120  and the support post (not shown) co-act with each other to provide the vertical pivoting around the horizontal axis A-A and pivoting in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B to provide the appropriate motions (as shown on  FIG.  2   ). 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 - 7   , the user  110  may stand sideways on upper surface of the user board  120 , user platform  146  or a snowboard module, i.e., with shoulders parallel to horizontal axis A-A (as shown on  FIGS.  6 B- 6 E ). An embodiment of a snowboard module is described in detail in  FIGS.  29 - 30    herein. Alternatively, the user  110  may stand on top of the user board  120 , user platform  146 , or a ski module facing forward, i.e., with shoulders perpendicular to the horizontal axis A-A (as shown on  FIG.  6 A ). An embodiment of a ski module is described in detail in  FIGS.  27 - 28    herein. The body and feet positions can be varied to propel the platforms and emulate the movements encountered during different types of sporting activities. 
       FIG.  2    schematically illustrates the range of motions that can be produced by the exercise device  100  of this invention. The horizontal axis of user platform  146  and user board  120  is represented by A-A and the vertical axis is represented by B-B. The vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  146  and user board  120  around the horizontal axis A-A in the vertical plane and horizontal pivot of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B are affected by the user&#39;s body  110  and foot positions and motions on foot mounts  130 . This combination of pivoting in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A and pivoting in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B can simulate “edging” produced by snowboarders, skiers and other motion sport participants. The horizontal axis A-A and vertical axis B-B are referenced throughout the descriptions of the exercise devices described herein, although they are not shown on the subsequent drawings. 
       FIGS.  3  through  5    are schematic views showing the various movements possible by the user platform  146  and user board  120  of the exercise device of this invention.  FIG.  3    is a top plane view of the user platform  146  and user board  120  showing the range of movements of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B.  FIG.  4    is an end view of the user platform  146  and user board  120  showing the range of vertical tilt or pivot movements of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A.  FIG.  5    is a side view of the user platform  146  and user board  120  shown in  FIG.  2    demonstrating the range of vertical tilt or pivot movements of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A. 
       FIGS.  6 A through  6 E  show a variety of the infinite foot positions on foot mounts  130  mounted on user platform  146  or user board  120 . The overall concept of the present invention provides a means for user  110  to select foot positions on the user platform  146  and user board  120  in a number of ways to emulate various sports activities or to utilize the device for training purposes, teaching, rehabilitation, entertainment or competition. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   , the exercise device of this invention  100  may be linked to a video monitor  182  through a wireless or wired connection. User  110  is positioned on the user platform  146  and user board  120 . The movements of a user, the user platform  146  and/or of user board  120  are tracked by motion sensors, potentiometers, accelerometers, strain gauges or other electronic instruments  180  positioned on or under the user platform  146  and user board  120 , on or inside the support post (not shown), on foot mounts  130  and on any other part of the exercise device  100  and/or on the user  110  (not shown). Sensors  180  extrapolate the user&#39;s movements and relay them to a central processing unit (CPU), game console, tablet, Virtual Reality glasses, computer  181  and/or viewing monitor  182 . The means for connectivity are numerous and can be, for example, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, and hard wired. The user  110  can also engage in online gaming in order to compete with other users, e.g., ski races, slalom races, etc. More detailed descriptions of the gaming capabilities are discussed below. 
     The exercise device  100  and sensors  180  can be coupled with a computer program, application (“App”), etc. to monitor activity and physical condition, e.g., calories, heartbeat, miles, time, etc. Other benefits could be realized in the form of detailed rehabilitation charts showing the physical progress of a user that is coming back from an injury. 
     As discussed in more detail herein, a plurality of adjustable resistance elements are mounted to the support post to control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The exercise device may also include a plurality of adjustable resistance elements mounted to the user platform  146  and user board  120  to control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  146  and user board  120  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A. Such adjustable resistance elements mounted to the user platform  146  or the user board  120  may include a guiding tilt mechanism that guides and controls the tilt of the user platform  146  and user board  120 . The guiding tilt mechanism can be in the form of a linkage system or guiding rails, tracks or ramps to, for example, emulate skiing or snowboarding exercise motions. 
       FIGS.  8  through  16    depict an embodiment of the exercise device  200  of this invention without the guiding tilt mechanism that controls the angle of vertical pivot or tilt of the user platform  246  (as shown in other embodiments herein). In this embodiment, the support post  240  can be mounted either by affixing the vertical column section to the support mount  252  (as described in  FIGS.  8 - 11     b ) or by affixing its horizontal cross bar section to the support mount  252  (as described in  FIGS.  12 - 16   ). Neither of such variations includes any guiding tilt mechanism. In both instances the principle movements are the same as described above with respect to the exercise device  100 . 
     FIGS.  8 - 11   b    
       FIG.  8    is a top view of the exercise device  200 . The user platform  246 , vertical pivots  244  or vertical plates  245  are not shown on  FIG.  8    but are depicted on the subsequent drawings in  FIGS.  10   a - 10   f    The exercise device  200  includes a base  250  with a horizontal support mount  252  to accommodate various mounting means for the support post  240 . One distinguishing feature of this embodiment is that the support post  240  is attached to the base of the machine by mounting the vertical column section of the support post  240  on top of the central horizontal pivot  242 , which is mounted on top of the support mount  252  (as further described below). Another distinguishing feature is that the vertical plates  245  with vertical pivots  244  are located on the inside of the user platform  246 . 
     The support post  240  in  FIG.  8    (and in other subsequent iterations of the device) consists of a vertical column with the horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of it. The support post  240  is used for mounting the user platform  246  on top of the cross bar section of that support post (as shown, for example, in  FIGS.  10   a - 10   f   ). A plurality of resistance elements  237 , in this embodiment springs, are mounted to the support post  240  to control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. Each horizontal resistance spring  237  is attached at one end to mounting arms  254  that co-act with the support post  240 . The other end of each horizontal resistance spring  237  is mounted to the base  250  by way of mounting members  238 . In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS.  8 - 10   , there are three resistance elements or springs  237 . In the embodiment depicted, one of the resistance elements  237  can be adjusted by the spring adjuster  239 , to further control the level or resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  8    (and in all other subsequent iterations of the device), a dampening piston strut  248  is also attached on one end to a mounting arm  254  and on the other end to the base  250 . Both the dampening piston strut  248  and horizontal resistance springs  237  create resistance and control in the rotation of the support post  240  to control the horizontal pivoting of the user platform  246  around the vertical axis B-B. Optionally, at least one or more of the resistance elements  237  may adjustable to further control the velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The degree of resistance of the horizontal resistance springs  237  can be adjusted by extending or contracting the length of the springs by various means, including for example by a spring adjuster  239 . Optionally, the dampening element  248  is also adjustable to further control the level or resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. 
     Other types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can also be used to create resistance for horizontal rotation of the user platform  246  around the vertical axis B-B. These mechanisms may include spring resistance mechanisms, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid, hydraulic, gas or spring), torsional springs, rubber band resistance, alternators, flywheel with various types of resistance (including magnetic, hydraulic, felt pad or other pads). These resistance mechanisms can be connected between: (a) the base  250  or horizontal support mount  252 , and (b) the mounting arms  254 , the support post  240  or user platform  246 . The mounting arms  254  are attached to the support post  240 . These mounting arms can be of various shapes and may include holes or slits. 
     Optionally, mounting arms  254  and/or the base  250  may be used to attach various other components to the exercise device, such as handle bars, a harness to assist the user with balancing on the device, amortization shock absorbers or rotation stoppers to soften or limit horizontal rotation of the user platform  246  at extreme points. 
       FIG.  9    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device showing vertical pivots  244  that are connected to the cross bar section of the support post  240 .  FIG.  9    shows the support post  240  mounted to the top of the central horizontal pivot  242  to permit rotation or pivoting in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B as described above. Referring to  FIG.  16    for example, another embodiment of the central horizontal pivot  242  can be installed around the main shaft  224  inside the support post  240  (as seen in  FIG.  16   ). 
       FIG.  10   a    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device with the user platform  246  installed. The user platform  246  is mounted to the vertical plates  245 . Vertical plates  245  are attached to vertical pivots  244  at both ends of the cross bar section of the support post  240 . Vertical pivots  244  allow for the vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  246  around the horizontal axis A-A as described previously. 
     As described in detail above, the horizontal resistance springs  237 , dampening piston strut  248  or other dampening means create resistance for horizontal rotation or pivot of the user platform  246  around the vertical axis B-B. Referring to  FIGS.  10   a - 10   f   , in addition to horizontal rotation resistance, the embodiment  200  can include vertical resistance springs  221  that create resistance for vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  246  around the horizontal axis A-A. 
     This lateral movement resistance adds extra complexity and, coupled with the rotational motion resistance, is appropriate for more experienced athletes who would like to maintain and improve their balance, increase strength and endurance required for motion sports. 
     One end of each vertical resistance spring  221  can be attached to mounting arms  254  or the support post  240  (or other rotating part of the device) and the other end of each vertical resistance spring  221  can be attached to the user platform  246 . Other types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can also be used create resistance for vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  246  around the horizontal A-A axis. Such resistance mechanisms could include dampening piston struts, spring resistance mechanisms, torsional springs, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid hydraulic, gas or spring), rubber band resistance, hydraulic resistance, electric motor or alternator resistance or other type of resistance mechanisms (not shown). Such resistance mechanisms can be attached between: (a) vertical plates  245 , vertical pivots  244  or user platform  246  and (b) mounting arms  254 , support post  240 , base  250 , and horizontal support mount  252  or other parts of the device. 
       FIG.  10   b    is a top view of the exercise device  200 .  FIGS.  10   c - 10   d    are perspective views from the top lateral side of the exercise device showing the horizontal and vertical movements of the user platform  246 . The exercise device  200  creates “carving” simulation through the combination of lateral tilt or pivot (to simulate pronation and supination “edging” movement in skiing or hill to toe movement in snowboarding) and horizontal rotation movement. It uses a synergistic balance of resistance elements described herein and pivot points between the base, the support post and user platform to create a smooth, realistic simulation of the real world movements in motion sport activities. 
     Another feature of the exercise device  200  is that the user platform  246  can be moved up and down the vertical plates  245  to create more or less stability of the user platform  246  around the horizontal A-A axis. A user can move the user platform  246  up the vertical plates  245  to reduce stability and make the exercise more challenging, or down to increase stability.  FIGS.  10   e  and  10   f    are showing the views of the exercise device  200  with the user platform  246  moved all the way down to the bottom and up to the top of the vertical plates  245 . 
       FIG.  11   a    is a top view and a cross sectional view taken along line C-C of the top view of vertical column the support post  240 . The support post  240  consists of a vertical column  225  that is rotationally mounted on top of the main shaft  224  and held in place by hex drive screw  222  that is thread through washer  223 . Central horizontal pivots  242  are located at the bottom of the vertical column  225  and inside of the vertical column  225  around the main shaft  224  to create rotation in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B as described above. The main shaft  224  is mounted on top of the horizontal support mount  252 . A potentiometer (not shown) may be mounted on top of the support post  240 . 
       FIG.  11   b    is an alternative configuration of the support post  240  and central pivot  242 . This embodiment of the support post  240  consists of a vertical column section and cross bar section. The vertical column section of the support post  240  is mounted on top of the central pivot  242 , which consists of a donut shaped bearing. The outside ring of the donut bearing  242  is mounted on the horizontal support mount  252 . The vertical column section of the support post  240  is pressed into the inside ring of the donut bearing  242 . Additional support is created by the vertical column connector  285  that is bolted to the bottom of donut bearing  242 . Alternatively, the donut shaped central pivot  242  can be included between the cross bar section and vertical column section of the support post  240  (not shown). 
     FIGS.  12 - 16   
     The embodiment shown on  FIGS.  12 - 16    has several distinguishing features that differentiate it from the prior embodiment in  FIGS.  8 - 11   . First, instead of mounting the vertical column section of the support post  240  to the base  250 , the support post  240  is attached to the base  250  by mounting its horizontal bar section on top of the central horizontal pivot  242 , which is mounted on top of the support mount  252 . Second, the horizontal bar section of the support post  240  is U-shaped (pointing upwards) and permits the mounting of vertical plates  245  and vertical pivots  244  to the outside of a user platform  246  (as seen in  FIGS.  14  &amp;  15   ). 
       FIG.  12    is a top view of the exercise device  200 . The support post  240 , user platform  246 , vertical pivots  244 , vertical plates  245  and several other elements are not shown on  FIG.  12    but are depicted on subsequent drawings in  FIGS.  13 - 16   . The exercise device  200  includes a base  250  with a horizontal support mount  252  to accommodate various mounting means for the support post  240  (as further described below). Adjustable resistance elements  237  are mounted to the support post  240  to control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B (as seen in  FIGS.  14  and  15     a ,  15   b ). These springs are adjusted by the spring adjuster  239  and lead screw  219 . In the embodiment depicted, a dampening piston strut  248  is also attached on one side to the mounting arms  254  and on the other side to the base  250 . Horizontal pivot  242  is attached on top of the support mount  252 . 
       FIG.  13    is a side lateral view of the device showing the exercise device  200  with the same elements as described in  FIG.  12   . In addition, it includes the support post  240  consisting of a U-shaped horizontal cross bar section, which is mounted on top of a vertical column. The horizontal cross bar section includes vertical pivots  244  on both ends. The horizontal cross bar section the support post  240  can be of various shapes or forms. In this embodiment, the horizontal cross bar section is an assembly consisting of two curved bars that are held together by vertical pivot connector plates  287  and cross bar connector plate  286 . The cross bar connector plate  286  is used for purposes of mounting the U-shaped horizontal cross bar section on top of the horizontal pivot  242 . The vertical column section is threaded through the horizontal pivot  242  and includes mounting arms  254  that are attached to the bottom of that vertical column. These mounting arms can be of various shapes and may include holes or slits. As further described below, the support post  240  is used for purposes of mounting the user platform  246 . 
       FIG.  14    is a side lateral view of the device showing the exercise device  200  with the same elements as described in  FIGS.  12  and  13   . In addition, it includes the user platform  246  mounted between vertical plates  245 . Vertical plates  245  are attached to vertical pivots  244  at both ends of the cross bar of the support post  240 . Vertical pivots  244  allow for the vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  246  around the horizontal axis A-A. This figure is showing in more detail various resistance elements that control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. Each horizontal resistance spring  237  is attached on one end to mounting arms  254  at the bottom the support post  240 . The other end of the horizontal resistance springs  237  is mounted to sliding mounting members  238  that are moving along the lead screw  219 . These resistance elements  237  are adjustable by extending or contracting the length of the springs along the lead screw  219  by various means, including by the spring adjuster  239 . In the embodiment depicted, a dampening piston strut  248  is also attached on one side to the mounting arms  254  and on the other side to the base  250 . Both the dampening piston strut  248  and horizontal resistance springs  237  create resistance and control in the rotation of the support post  240  to control the horizontal pivoting of the user platform  246  around the vertical axis B-B. Optionally, the dampening element  248  is also adjustable to further control the level or resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform  246  in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. 
     Other types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can also be used create resistance for horizontal rotation of the user platform  246  around the vertical axis B-B. These mechanisms may include spring resistance mechanisms, torsional springs, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid, hydraulic, gas or spring), rubber band resistance, alternators, flywheel with various types of resistance (including magnetic, hydraulic, felt pad or other pads). These resistance mechanisms can be connected between: (a) the base  250  or horizontal support mount  252  and (b) the mounting arms  254 , support post  240  or user platform  246 . 
     Various types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can be used create resistance for vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  246  around the horizontal A-A axis. They could include dampening piston struts, spring resistance mechanisms, torsional springs, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid hydraulic, gas or spring), rubber band resistance, hydraulic resistance, electric motor or alternator resistance or other type of resistance mechanisms (not shown). Such resistance mechanisms can be attached between: (a) vertical plates  245 , vertical pivots  244 , or user platform  246 , and (b) mounting arms  254 , support post  240 , base  250 , and horizontal support mount  252  or other parts of the device. 
     Optionally, mounting arms  254  and/or the base  250  may be used to attach various other components to the exercise device, such as handle bars, a harness to assist the user with balancing on the device, amortization shock absorbers or rotation stoppers to soften or limit horizontal rotation of the user platform  246  at extreme points. 
       FIGS.  15   a  and  15   b    are additional views of the device.  FIG.  15   a    is a top lateral side of the exercise device showing the movement of the user platform  246  vertically and horizontally. The exercise device  200  creates “carving” simulation through the combination of vertical tilt or pivot (to simulate pronation and supination “edging” movement in skiing or hill to toe movement in snowboarding) and horizontal rotation movement. It uses a synergistic balance of resistance elements described herein and pivot points between the base, the support post and user platform to create a smooth, realistic simulation of the real world movements in motion sport activities. The user platform  246  can be moved up and down the vertical plates  245  to create more or less stability of the user platform  246  around the horizontal A-A axis. A user can move the user platform  246  up the vertical plates  245  to reduce stability and make the exercise more challenging, or down to increase stability.  FIG.  15   b    is another side view of the exercise device  200  with the user platform  246  moved up to the top of the vertical plates  245 . 
       FIG.  16    is an exploded perspective of the support post  240  in this embodiment  200 . The support post  240  consists of a vertical column with a U-shaped horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of it. The horizontal cross bar section can be of various shapes or forms. In this embodiment, the horizontal cross bar section is an assembly consisting of two substantially parallel U-shaped curved bars that are secured together by vertical pivot connector plates  287  mounted at the ends of such curved bars and a cross bar connector plate  286  in the center of the u-shape. Vertical pivots  244  are pivotally mounted to each vertical pivot connector plate  287 . The central pivot  242  is represented by a donut bearing and the vertical column section of the support post  240  is threaded through the center of the central pivot  242 . The outside ring of the central pivot  242  donut bearing is mounted to the cross bar connector plate  286  and therefore connects the central pivot  242  to the horizontal cross bar section of the support post  240 . The inside ring of the central pivot  242  donut bearing is mounted to the horizontal support mount  252 , which in turn is mounted to the base  250 . The mounting arms  254  that are attached to the bottom of that vertical column after it is threaded through the center of the central pivot  242 . 
       FIGS.  17 - 38     FIGS.  17  through  38    illustrate other embodiments  300  of the exercise device of this invention, which includes the same components as depicted in  FIGS.  8 - 11    of the exercise device  200 , with the exception that springs  221  or any other kind of vertical resistance is not included. In these embodiments  300 , the vertical tilt or pivot of the user platform  346  around the horizontal A-A axis is controlled by a guiding tilt mechanism. This guiding tilt mechanism provides more stability for the user platform  346  and therefore facilitates the usage of the exercise device with a ski module or snowboard module that can be attached to the user platform  346  (as further described in  FIGS.  27 - 30    below). The guiding tilt mechanism can be in the form of a linkage system or guiding rails, tracks or ramps system. Both systems are further described below. 
       FIGS.  17  through  30    show the embodiment of the exercise device of this invention  300  that utilizes the same elements from  FIGS.  8 - 11    of the previous embodiment  200  in order to affect horizontal pivot/rotation, vertical tilt/pivot and dampening means. However, the vertical resistance springs  221  are not used. In addition, the exercise device  300  incorporates a guiding tilt mechanism in the form of a linkage system to create a smooth yet stable and guided vertical tilt or pivot movements of the user platform  346  around the horizontal A-A axis. 
       FIG.  17    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device  300 . The vertical pivots  344 , user platform  346  and several other elements are not shown on  FIG.  17    but are depicted on the subsequent drawings.  FIG.  17    shows the same elements as shown in  FIG.  8   . However, in addition, it includes the linkage system components that are described in detail in  FIGS.  20 - 26   .  FIG.  18    is a top view of the device embodiment  300  before installing the vertical pivots  344  and the user platform  346 . 
       FIG.  19    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device  300  with the vertical pivots  344  attached to the support post  340  and with the user platform  346  installed. This figure shows the movement of the user platform side to side that creates “carving” simulation through the combination of lateral tilt or pivot and horizontal rotation movement. The exercise device  300  further includes an adjustable guiding linkage plate mechanism that guides and controls the angle of tilt of the user platform  346  in the vertical plane. 
     The linkage system is presented in more detail in  FIGS.  20 - 26    and consists of the following elements: 
     (a) Top plate  360  includes mounting arms  354  and straight slit  370  along the middle of the elongated section of that plate. It also includes a semi-circular slit  368  between the mounting arms  354 . Top plate  360  is affixed to support post  340  and rotates with the support post  340 . 
     (b) Bottom plate  364  includes a straight slit  326  along the length of and in the middle of that plate  364  (as seen on  FIG.  22 ,  26    and partially on  FIG.  21 B  and other drawings). One end of the bottom plate  364  is supported by the supporting base  374  (as seen in detail on  FIGS.  20 - 21 ,  24  and  26   ). The bottom plate  364  is attached to and rotating around the pivot post  369  that is inserted into the supporting base  374  and protruding through the semicircular slit  368  (as seen in detail on  FIGS.  24 ,  26    and partially on  FIGS.  20 - 21   ). The other end of the bottom plate  364  is attached to the supporting roller  371  and rolls on top of the horizontal roller plate  373  in semi-circular motion. The supporting roller  371  supports the bottom plate  364  when it rotates around the pivot post  369 . 
     (c) Referring to knob and roller pin  362 , the knob  362  is attached to a pin that is threaded through a shuttle with flanges  358  (shown in more detail on  FIG.  25   ). The shuttle with flanges  358  travels within the slit  370  along the middle of the top plate  360  and serves to reduce the freedom of movement of the knob and roller pin  362  within the slits  370  and  326 . A roller is attached to the bottom of the pin (as seen in more detail on  FIG.  22   ). The roller pin is threaded through slit  370  along the middle of the elongated section of top plate  360  and also through slit  326  along the middle of the bottom plate  364 . The knob and roller pin  362  can be moved along the slits  370  and  326  and the roller pin&#39;s position can be fixed anywhere along the slits by tightening the knob. 
     (d) two posts  365  that are attached at the end of the bottom plate  364  with a connecting horizontal bar  366  between the posts; 
     (f) vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  that has the loop with bearing  375  at the bottom of it. The top end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  is connected to the user platform  346 . Both the user platform  346  and top plate  360  are attached to the support post  340 . 
     Therefore, as the support post  340  and user platform  346  rotate, the top end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  moves in sync with the top plate  360 . The bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  is connected to the bottom plate  364  by the loop with bearing  375  that is threaded through the horizontal bar  366 . Therefore, the bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  moves together with the bottom plate  364 . If the bottom plate  364  and top plate  360  rotate by the same amount of degrees around their respective pivot points, then the top end and bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  also move by the same amount of degrees. Therefore, the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  stays in a vertical position and user platform  346  does not tilt or pivot. If the bottom plate  364  rotates by more degrees than the top plate  360 , then the bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  also moves more than the top end. Therefore, the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  tilts and causes user platform  346  to tilt or pivot. 
     The degree of rotation of the bottom plate  364  relative to the top plate  360  is determined by the position of the knob and roller pin  362  within the slits  370  and  326 .  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  demonstrate what happens when the knob and roller pin  362  is moved along the slits closer to the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367 . In such case, when the user pushes on the user platform  346  and therefore rotates the top plate  364 , the knob and roller pin  362  pushes on the bottom plate  360  at a point which further away from its point of rotation around the pivot post  369 . This causes the top plate  360  and bottom plate  364  to rotate in sync and by the same amount of A° degrees ( FIG.  20 B ). Therefore, the top end and bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  also move by the same amount. Hence, the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  stays in a vertical position and user platform  346  does not tilt or pivot around the horizontal axis A-A. 
       FIGS.  21 A and  21 B  demonstrate what happens when the pin and knob  362  is moved along the slits closer to the pivot post  369 . In such case, when the user pushes on the user platform  346  and therefore rotates the top plate  364 , the knob and roller pin  362  pushes on the bottom plate  360  at a point which is closer to its point of rotation around the pivot post  369 . This allows the top plate  364  and bottom plate  360  to separate and turn by unequal amount of degrees as they complete the rotation. The top plate  364  rotates by A° degrees but the bottom plate  360  rotates by the much larger amount of B° degrees ( FIG.  21 B ). This means that the bottom end of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  also moves by B° degrees and the top end moves by the lesser amount of A° degrees. Therefore, the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367  tilts and causes user platform  346  to tilt or pivot vertically around the horizontal axis A-A. 
       FIG.  22    is showing the knob and roller pin  362  inside both slits  370  and  326  along the middle of the top plate  360  and bottom plate  364  respectively. It also shows a closer view of various other elements of the linkage system, including the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  367 , the loop with bearing  375 , the posts  365  with a connecting horizontal bar  366  that is thread through the loop with bearing  375 . 
       FIGS.  23 - 26    show a variation of the linkage system described above that replaces the knob and roller pin  362  with quick release skewer lock  356 .  FIG.  23    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of that variation. It includes the metered board  355  mounted on top of the top plate  360 . The metered board  355  has recessed cone-shaped holes designed for housing the quick release skewer lock  356 . These holes prevent movement along the slits  370  and  326  when the quick release skewer lock  356  is locked in.  FIG.  24    is a view from the side of the linkage system with the metered board  355  and quick release skewer lock  356 . 
     The quick release skewer lock  356  and its related components are presented in more detail in  FIG.  25   . The quick release skewer lock  356  is threaded through the metered board  355  as described above. It is also threaded through the shuttle with flanges  358  that travels within the slit  370  along the middle of the top plate  360 . The shuttle with flanges  358  incorporates bushing  357  to reduce the freedom of movement of the quick release skewer lock&#39;s pin. A cone shaped tapered bearing  359  is installed below the shuttle with flanges  358  and is secured by the cap  329  at the bottom. The tapered bearing  359  travels only within the slit  326  along the middle of the bottom plate  364 . 
       FIG.  26    a cross sectional view of the linkage system, which shows how the quick release skewer lock  356  locks the linkage system to secure position of the lock&#39;s pin within slits  370  and  326 . The inner edge track of the slit  326  is angled to accommodate the cone shape of the tapered bearing  359 . When the user locks the quick release skewer lock  356  and its pin is pulled up, the cone shape of the tapered bearing  359  moves up into the angled inner edges of the slit  326 . This locking pull force secures the tapered bearing  359  inside the slit  326  without hindering its motion within it. 
     There may be other alternative means by which position of the pin can be fixed along slits  370  and  326  in the top plate  360  and bottom plate  364 . For example, straight slits  370  and  326  can be replaced with holes (not shown) and the position of the pin can be fixed by inserting the pin through such holes. Alternatively, the pin can travel along a lead screw that can be installed along the elongated section of top plate  360 . 
     The linkage system can be placed on one end of the device, as shown on  FIGS.  17 - 30   , or on both ends of the device (not shown). The linkage system is included in the embodiment  300  and the vertical resistance springs  221  (that are described in the embodiment  200 ) are excluded. 
     In addition, the user platform  346  in the embodiment  300  is connected to the vertical pivots  344  without any vertical connection bars that are similar to vertical bars  245  in the embodiment  200 ). All other components of this embodiment  300  are substantially the same as in embodiment  200  and have the same functionalities and therefore are not repeated here. 
     Referring for example to  FIG.  19   , in practice the user would be positioned atop the user platform  346  on foot mounts  330  and can affect rotational movements of the user platform  346  in the horizontal plane by moving their body around the vertical axis B-B and concurrently affect a lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  346  around the horizontal A-A axis. The user starts in the central position and then as he rotates the user platform  346  in one direction, it starts to tilt. The user then rotates the user platform  346  in the opposite direction and the direction of the tilt changes as well. The user would continue to traverse through a series of undulating motions culminating in a physical workout, rehabilitation or general skill training session. 
     The exercise device embodiment  300  of this invention may include a removable ski module described on  FIGS.  27   a  and  27   b   . The ski module consists of foot mounts  330  in the form of cradles with mounting members  334  that are suspended above the ski foot base  331 . The mounting members  334  (and therefore the foot mounts  330 ) and are pivotally attached on pivots  327  to vertical supports  333 . The vertical supports  333  are mounted on the linear bearings  328  that slide horizontally on tracks or rails  303 . The tracks or rails  303  are substantially parallel to each other. The foot mounts  330  pivot vertically on pivots  327 . The linear bearings  328  create horizontal movement of foot mounts  330  back and forth along the tracks or rails  303 . The linear bearings  328  and rails  303  are mounted on the support plates  304 . The support plates are mounted on the ski foot base  331  and can be moved horizontally side to side to increase or decrease the width of the user&#39;s stance.  FIGS.  28   a    and  28 - b  are perspective views from the top lateral side of the exercise device  300  with the ski module mounted on top and at the end of the user platform  346 . When the user platform  346  pivots or rotates, the foot mounts  330  move side to side, thus enhancing the simulation of edging of skis (i.e. pronation and supination movement in alpine skiing). In addition, the foot mounts  330  moves horizontally back and forth along rails or tracks  303 . There may be springs, dampers or other resistance mechanism installed along the rails or tracks  303 , for example between the support plates  304  and vertical supports  333 . These resistance mechanisms will create resistance to horizontal movements of foot mounts  330  along the rails or tracks  303 . In addition to pronation and supination pivotal movement of foot mounts  330 , this horizontal back and forth movement of foot mounts  330  along the rails or tracks  303  creates even more realistic ski sensation because it allows users to put more weight on the outside leg when rotating the user platform (i.e., lateral weight distribution) and shift the inside leg forward to always keep the toes in a line that is parallel to user&#39;s shoulders throughout the turn. Alternatively, the foot mounts  330  for ski position may be linked through a system of bars, cables or other linkages (not shown) to other parts of the device in a way that would make them automatically move back and forth in a horizontal plane as user platform  346  rotates around the vertical axis B-B. Additionally, the foot mounts  330  for ski position may incorporate a removable heel ramp (not shown) that can be placed under the ski foot base  331  on its heel side to lift up the user&#39;s heels and further simulate a downhill ski slope. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  29  and  30   , the exercise device  300  of this invention may also include a removable snowboard module. The snowboard modules resembles one large ski cradle; it is similar to that described above and is utilizing some of the same components that are used in other iterations of the exercise device described herein, see e.g.  FIG.  16   . It consists of two substantially parallel curved U-shaped bars that are held together by vertical pivot connector plates  387  at the ends of the bars and a central connector plate  386 . The snowboard module is mounted on top of user platform  346 . The snowboard module is in the form of a large cradle that consists of another user platform  346  (the “snowboard user platform”) attached to the vertical plates  345 . The vertical plates  345  (and therefore the snowboard user platform) are pivotally attached on vertical pivots  344 . The vertical pivots  344  are attached to the pivot connector plates  387 . The snowboard user platform is suspended above the user platform  346  and pivots both horizontally with the user platform  346  directly below it and vertically on pivots  344 . 
       FIG.  30    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device  300  with the snowboard module mounted on top of the user platform  346 . When the user platform  346  pivots or rotates, the snowboard user platform moves both horizontally and vertically side to side, thus enhancing the simulation of edging of snowboard (i.e. lateral movement in snowboarding). There may be springs, dampers or other resistance mechanism installed to create resistance of lateral movements of snowboard user platform. Various types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can be used create resistance for vertical tilt or pivot of the snowboard user platform around the horizontal A-A axis. They could include dampening piston struts, spring resistance mechanisms, torsional springs, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid hydraulic, gas or spring), rubber band resistance, hydraulic resistance, electric motor or alternator resistance or other type of resistance mechanisms (not shown). Such resistance mechanisms can be attached between (1) vertical plates  345 , vertical pivots  344 , or snowboard user platform and (2) U-shaped bars or other parts of the support post  340 , vertical pivot connector plates  387 , central connector plate  386  and user platform  346  or other parts of the device. 
     The magnitude of lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  346  in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A can be controlled by other variations of linkage systems. For example,  FIGS.  31 - 34    depict alternative linkage mechanisms that utilize rotating plate  476 , which can be of different shape or form. One end of the rotating plate  476  is connected through a horizontal bar  477  to mounting arm  454  that are attached to support post  440 . The other end of the rotating plate  476  is connected to vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  467  either directly, as in  FIG.  31    or through horizontal bars  477 , as in  FIGS.  32 - 34   . The vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  467  is connected to the user platform  446 . The rotating plate  476  pivots around vertical pin or bolt  479  that attaches that plate to horizontal support mount  452  or directly to base  450 . As the mounting arms  454  rotate with the support post  440  and the user platform  446 , they push on the horizontal bar  477 , which in turn pushes the rotating plate  476  to rotate around that vertical pin or bolt  479 . The degree of rotation around that vertical pin or bolt  479  determines the magnitude of lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  446 . 
     Such degree of rotation or pivot may be controlled by various methods. One such method is by changing position of horizontal bar  477  that is connected to mounting arms  454  along the openings or slit in the mounting arms  454 . When the horizontal bar  477  is moved closer to the end of the mounting arm  454 , the rotating plate  476  increases its degree of rotation around the vertical pin or bolt  479 , which pushes more on the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  467  thus increasing its angle, which in turn will increase the angle of platform  446 . The rotating plate  476  may have a slit (such as slit  478  on  FIGS.  31  and  32   ) along which the horizontal bar  477  will slide once it is moved along the openings or slit in the mounting arms  454 . Alternatively, the rotating plate  476  may not have a slit (such as plate  476  shown on  FIG.  33 - 34   ). In another variation of the linkage system (not shown above), the user platform can be linked to the mounting arms  454  or directly to the support post  440  through a system of cables (replacing the horizontal bars  477 ) and pulley wheels (replacing the rotating plate  476 ). 
       FIGS.  35 A and  35 B  through- 38  of the exercise device of this invention  500  depict alternative mechanisms to control the tilt of the user platform  546 . This embodiment utilizes the same elements of exercise device  300  to affect horizontal rotation, pivoting and dampening means. However, in this embodiment  500  the linkage system is replaced with adjustable or removable arced set of ramps, rails or tracks  590  and rollers (bearing wheels)  592  to control the angle of the lateral tilt or pivot movements of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. The ramps, rails or tracks  590  can be placed at both ends of the device, as shown in  FIGS.  35 A and  35 B , or only at one end of the device (not shown). The angles of the ramps, rails or tracks  590  may be adjusted (e.g., by elevating one side of the ramps, rails or tracks) in order to control the amount of lateral tilt or pivot movement of the user platform  546  around the horizontal axis A-A. Alternatively, a ramp, rail or track can be removed and substituted with another ramp, rail or track that has a steeper or flatter angle. Mounted under the user platform  546  are rollers (bearing wheels)  592  that are diagonally disposed as can be seen in the drawings (or they can be attached to all four corners of the user platform  546 ). In practice the user would be positioned atop the user platform  546  on foot mounts  530  and can affect rotational movements of the user platform  546  in the horizontal plane by moving their body around the vertical axis B-B and concurrently effect a lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. 
     Other than the ramps, rails or tracks that control the tilt or pivot of the user platform  546 , the elements of the device  500  and their functionalities are the same as the elements from the previous embodiment  300  and therefore they are not repeated here. 
       FIG.  36    is an image of a portion of the exercise device  500  representing a variation of rails, tracks or ramps that allows to control the overall lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. If both ends of ramps, rails or tracks are level, then the ramps, rails or tracks will provide a relatively gentle ride with small lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. If one end of ramps, rails or tracks is raised above the other end then the angle of ramps, rails or tracks will increase and result in extreme ride with large lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. This can be achieved by having the arced ramps, rails or tracks  590  attached to adjustable lever arms  594  that are pivotally attached at  596  to a mounting member  598  that is transversely mounted to base  550 . Vertical movement and height of arced ramps, rails or tracks  590  can be controlled by mechanical means, such as lead screws, or electronic means (not shown) in order to control the rate of travel as desired. By increasing or decreasing the angle of the lever arms  594 , the angle of arced ramps, rails or tracks  590  are raised or lowered in the vertical plane. Such arced ramps, rails or tracks  590  can be installed on one side or on both sides of the base  550  (opposite each other). The amount of lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis is determined by the geometry and height of the arced portions of ramps, rails or tracks  590 . 
       FIG.  37    is an image of portion of the exercise device  500  showing another variation of rails, tracks or ramps that controls the tilt of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. This embodiment includes adjustable arced rails or tracks with two rollers (bearing wheels)  592 , one positioned above the ramp, rails or track  590  and one below. 
       FIG.  38    is an image of a portion of the exercise device  500  showing another variation of ramps, rails or tracks mechanism that control the tilt of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis. In this embodiment the two arced ramps, rails or tracks  590  are unified by a horizontal cross-piece  591  in order to pair or synchronize their height adjustment. Another way of pairing or synchronizing their height adjustment is by electronic means or mechanical means, such as by connecting the ramps, rails or tracks  590  with lead screws (not shown). Each arced ramp, rail or track  590  is affixed to pivoting linkage arms  593  that can rotate via upper pivot points  597  located at the upper portion of vertical support plates  595 . Vertical support plates  595  are fixed to transverse mounting plates  551 , which are attached to the base  550 . The pivoting linkage arms  593  have a predisposed amount of rotational travel allowed by way of slits  599  in plates  595  that limit the overall pivoting motion via stop means or lead screws (not shown) attached to the base  550 . Similarly to the above, this embodiment creates a modified series of movements with adjustable lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform  546  around the horizontal A-A axis based on the geometry and height of the arced portions of the ramps, rails or tracks  590 . 
     In any variation of this invention the magnitude of lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform in the vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A can be controlled by many other types of rails, ramps or track systems. 
     FIGS.  39 - 40   
       FIGS.  39  and  40    show yet another embodiment of the exercise device of this invention  600 . This design utilizes any of the elements from the previous embodiments  100 - 500 . However, instead of the vertical pivots (described as  244 ,  344 ,  444 , and  544  in previous embodiments) and central horizontal pivot (described as  242 ,  342 ,  442 , and  542  in previous embodiments), the lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform around the horizontal axis A-A and horizontal pivot of the user platform in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B are created by the spherical bearing/ball joint  684  mounted to the support post  640 . Spherical bearing/ball joint  684  is installed on top of the support post  640  and under the user platform  646 . Alternatively, spherical bearing/ball joint  684  may be positioned under the support post  640  and on top of the base  650  (such position is not shown on the drawings) or between the vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section to the support post  640 . User platform  646  has complete degree of freedom because of spherical bearing/ball joint  684  and can move in any direction, including up, down, left or right. However, any ramps, rails or linkage mechanisms described in embodiments  300  through to  500  would limit the degree of freedom of rotation of user platform  646  and create a smooth yet stable and guided lateral tilt or pivot movements of the user platform around the horizontal axis A-A and horizontal pivot of the user platform in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. 
     FIGS.  41 - 43   
     The horizontal rotation resistance of user platform in any embodiment of the device  100  through to  600  can be controlled by an alternator-based system, which is further described in the embodiment of the device  700  on  FIGS.  41 - 43   . With the exception of the alternator-based horizontal resistance system, the elements of the device  700  and their functionalities are the same as the elements from the previous embodiment  300  and therefore they are not repeated here. The alternator-based system can be combined with or replace any other resistance mechanism described herein to control the horizontal rotation resistance.  FIG.  41    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device  700 . This embodiment  700  includes the user platform  746  (with or without the ski module or snowboard module) mounted on top of the vertical pivots  744  that are installed on each side of the cross-bar section of support post  740 . The support post  740  is mounted on top of the horizontal support mount  752  and includes central horizontal pivots  742 . The tilt or pivot of the user platform  746  is guided by the linkage system that includes top plate  760 , bottom plate  764 , vertical bar and/or telescopic tube  767  and all other elements of the linkage system described in the embodiment  300  above.  FIG.  42    is a perspective view from the top lateral side of the exercise device  700  described in  FIG.  41    but with the ski module attached to the user platform  746 .  FIG.  43    is a view of the exercise device  700  from the bottom. 
     The alternator-based horizontal rotation resistance system in the embodiment of the exercise device  700  consists of the central pulley or sprocket  711  at the bottom of the support post  740 . A central belt or chain  712  connects the central pulley or sprocket  711  to the gear pulley or sprocket  714  that is mounted on the gear mounting member  709 . The gear carrier post  713  connects the gear pulley or sprocket  714  to the drive pulley or sprocket  715  underneath it and to planetary pulley or sprocket  716  underneath the drive pulley or sprocket  715 . The planetary pulley or sprocket  716  includes a standard planetary or other gear system (not shown) that causes that pulley to spin in the opposite direction to the rotation of the gear carrier post  713 . As a result, as gear pulley or sprocket  714  spins in one direction, the drive pulley or sprocket  715  spins in the same direction and the planetary pulley or sprocket  716  spins in the opposite direction. The planetary pulley or sprocket  716  is connected by bottom alternator belt or chain  718  to the bottom alternator pulley  707  (as seen on  FIG.  43   ). The drive pulley or sprocket  715  is connected by the top alternator belt or chain  717  to top alternator pulley or sprocket (not shown), which sits directly on top of the bottom alternator pulley or sprocket  707 . Both the top and bottom alternator pulleys or sprockets are exactly the same in their shape or form and are referenced as the alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  herein. The alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  are threaded through the shaft  706  of the alternator  705 . These alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  incorporate clutch bearings that allow the alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  to engage the alternator shaft  706  only when the alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  are rotated in one direction (e.g. clockwise). If the alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  are rotated in the other direction (i.e. counterclockwise), the clutch bearings overrun and cause the alternator pulleys or sprockets  707  to spin freely and therefore do not engage the alternator shaft  706 . The alternator  705  is mounted on the alternator mounting members  708 . 
     When the user platform  746  and support post  740  turn clockwise, the central pulley or sprocket  711  also turns clockwise and causes the drive pulley or sprocket  715  to turn clockwise. The drive pulley or sprocket  715  causes the top alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to turn clockwise and the clutch bearing will lock with alternator shaft  706  to turn it clockwise. At the same time, the central pulley or sprocket  711  causes the planetary pulley or sprocket  716  to turn counterclockwise (i.e. in the opposite direction to the central pulley or sprocket  711 ) because of the planetary or other gears reversing its direction. The planetary pulley or sprocket  716  causes the bottom alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to also turn counterclockwise (i.e. in the opposite direction to the central pulley or sprocket  711 ) and the clutch bearing overrun and cause the bottom alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to spin freely without engaging the alternator shaft  706 . When the user platform turns counterclockwise, the central pulley or sprocket  711  also turns counterclockwise and causes the drive pulley or sprocket  715  to turn counterclockwise. The drive pulley or sprocket  715  causes the top alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to also turn counterclockwise and the clutch bearing will overrun and cause the top alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to spin freely without engaging the alternator shaft  706 . At the same time, the central pulley or sprocket  711  causes the planetary pulley or sprocket  716  to turn clockwise (i.e. in the opposite direction to the central pulley or sprocket  711 ). The planetary pulley or sprocket  716  causes the bottom alternator pulley or sprocket  707  to also turn clockwise and the clutch bearing will lock with alternator shaft  706  to turn it clockwise. Thus, the torque will continue transmitting to the alternator shaft  706  only in one (clockwise) direction. 
     The alternator  705  serves as a break on rotation of the alternator shaft  706 . The alternator-based horizontal rotation resistance system includes a load resister means that is connected to the alternator means for purposes of absorbing the electrical energy output of the alternator. It also includes a control panel with a plurality of computer control programs that allow the user to change the level of resistance applicable to the alternator shaft  706 , thus creating a dynamic electronic resistance on the rotation of the user platform. 
     The degree of lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform around the horizontal A-A axis and horizontal rotation resistance of such user platform when it is rotated or pivoted around vertical B-B axis can be adjustable electronically in any embodiment of the device  100  through to  700 . In particular, the lateral tilt or pivot of such user platform around the horizontal A-A axis could be adjusted by an electronic motor or electronically controlled hydraulic mechanism. Additionally, horizontal rotation resistance of such user platform could be adjusted by an electronic system that progressively activates brakes applied to horizontal rotation, or by dampers that adjust electronically, or by actuators that electronically change the position of the dampers and thus alter their resistance. 
     Safety Rails, Handles, Bars or Poles 
     Any embodiment of the device  100  through to  700  may include safety rails, handles, bars or poles, which could be removable or adjustable. Such safety rails, handles, bars or poles can be stationary attached to any part of the device  100  through to  700 , including the base (described as  250 ,  350 ,  450 ,  550  or  650  on the drawings included herein) or horizontal support mount (described as  252 ,  352 ,  452 ,  552 , or  652  on the drawings included herein). Safety rails, handles, bars or poles can also be attached to any horizontally rotating part of the device so that they rotate horizontally around B-B axis with a user of the device and user platform. For example, safety rails, handles, bars or poles can be attached to the mounting arms (described as  254 ,  354 ,  454 ,  554 , or  654  on the drawings included herein) or directly to support post (described as  240 ,  340 ,  440 ,  540 , or  640  on the drawings included herein). The safety rails, handles, bars or poles may incorporate controls or buttons (not shown) for gaming to control the video games or other electronic interfaces with the device, as further described herein. The safety rails, handles, bars or poles may be positioned along the exercise device for snowboarding stance or perpendicular to the exercise device for skiing stance. In addition, the safety rails, handles, bars or poles may be used to attach a harness that would assist the user with balancing on the device (not shown). 
     The device may also include an electronic control panel or touch screen to control the degree of lateral tilt or pivot and horizontal rotation resistance. This can be done by choosing the appropriate levels or by selecting pre-programmed modes that would automatically adjust the level of tilt and resistance throughout the ride and during the chosen exercise time. The panel would also have standard indicators such as time, calories lost, level of resistance and tilt etc. 
     Each of embodiments of the device  100  through to  700  can be transformed into a gaming controller device by fitting it with motion sensors, potentiometers, accelerometers, strain gauges, weight sensor, pressure sensors or other electronic instruments. These instruments can be attached to or incorporated in any part of the device  100  through to  700  (including under or within the foot pads, on or within the user frame or base of the devise, on or inside the support post etc.) and can capture the athlete&#39;s body movements, level of intensity, changes in the rate of motion, weight transfer and balance and transform them into electronic signals that can control video games and transmit them on a video panel, monitor or Virtual Reality glasses. 
     Each embodiment of the exercise device described herein creates “carving” simulation through the combination of lateral tilt or vertical pivot (to simulate “edging” motion, i.e., hill to toe movement used in snowboarding or pronation and supination movement used in alpine skiing) and horizontal rotation movement. It uses a synergistic balance of resistance elements, (e.g., dampening piston struts, springs or other dampening means described herein) and pivot points between the base, the support post and user platform to create a smooth, realistic simulation of the real world movements in motion sport activities. 
     Broadly, the exercise device of this invention allows recreational athletes to engage in an intense cardio and muscle-building activity. Users exercise their lateral abdominal, lower back and leg muscles by making broad left and right turns with their torso. In addition, they can control the tilt of the user platform and the resistance level of their turns. As the angle of tilt increases, the machine naturally forces the users into a position that automatically engages their core, quads, glutes, and hamstring and calve muscles. By increasing the level of turn resistance, athletes can amplify the level of intensity of the workout. The users can also change their stance on the user platform, for example from a snowboarding stance, to a surfing stance or skiing stance. This adds variation to the exercise keeping the user engaged for a longer period of time, making the exercise less boring and allows the user to target the muscle groups from different angles. Custom designed exercise routines and or programs can be created for the athletes that utilize the unique movements produced by the exercise device to train the upper body muscles, including chest, shoulder and triceps muscles. As a result, the machine offers an exhausting full body workout to recreational users. 
     Other users engaged in motion sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, surfing, skateboarding, water skiing, wakeboarding or kite boarding can reap tremendous benefits from the exercise device of this invention. There are few athletes that have daily access to training in these sports, typically requiring travel to warmer or colder destinations. The cost of travel and hotel expenses and daily job commitments prevent most motion sport enthusiasts from engaging in these activities more than once or twice per year. Even those, who can indulge in motion sports more often, are constrained by shorter seasons and unpredictable weather patterns. As a result, many recreational participants engage in these sports without proper conditioning and spend most of their trip on dealing with muscle soreness and discomfort. 
     The exercise device simulates the movements produced by motion sport athletes and is designed to provide a workout that maintains muscle conditioning, improves balance, stability and endurance that are necessary for motion sports. In any embodiment of the exercise, by changing the position of foot mounts on the user platform or board, the user can select the stance that corresponds to the applicable motion sport. They can attach the foot mounts along the horizontal A-A axis in parallel, “duck” or other stance that is customary used on snowboarding, skateboarding, wakeboarding or kite boarding (see  FIGS.  6 C- 6 E ). Or they can move the foot mounts further apart and attach them on an angle that produces the required stance for surfing (see  FIG.  6 B ). Alternatively, the athletes can attach the foot mounts to one end of the machine while facing the other end to replicate downhill skiing or water skiing position (see  FIG.  6 A ). 
     FIGS.  44 - 48   
     The embodiment  800  represents any two devices  100  through to  700  mounted on a common mounting base, side by side in parallel. In this embodiment the user can place one foot on the user platform of one device and the other foot on the user platform of the second device and operate each user platform independently so that one user platform will serve as an individual “ski” for one foot and the other user platform will as an individual ski for the second foot. 
     One example such paired device  800  is shown on  FIG.  44    and it consists of two side by side, parallel devices with guided tilt mechanisms and ski attachments. Another example is shown on  FIGS.  45 - 48    and consists of two paired parallel devices with ski attachments and without the guiding tilt mechanism.  FIG.  45    is a top view of the exercise device  800 . The exercise device  800  includes a base  850  with a horizontal support mount  852  to accommodate various mounting means for the support post  840 . The support post  840  consists of a vertical column with the horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of it. The support post  840  that is attached to the base of the machine by way of mounting its horizontal cross bar section on top of the central horizontal pivot  842 , which is mounted on top of the support mount  852 . The support plates  804  are mounted on the support post  840 . Similar to  FIG.  27   , the linear bearings  828  and rails  803  are mounted on the support plates  804 . Foot mounts  830  in the form of cradles with mounting members  834  that are suspended above support plates  804 . The mounting members  834  (and therefore the foot mounts  830 ) and are pivotally attached on pivots  827  to vertical supports  833 . The vertical supports  833  are mounted on the linear bearings  828  that slide horizontally on tracks or rails  803 . The foot mounts  830  pivot vertically on pivots  827 . The linear bearings  828  create horizontal movement of foot mounts  830  back and forth along the tracks or rails  803 . 
       FIG.  46    is a lateral top view of the paired device  800  and  FIG.  47    is a bottom view. A plurality of adjustable resistance elements  837  are mounted to the support post  840  to control the level of resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of support plates  804  (and therefore of the foot mounts  830 ) in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. Each horizontal resistance spring  837  is attached at one end to mounting arms  854  that co-act with the support post  840 . The other end of the horizontal resistance springs  837  is mounted to the resistance bar  888  by way of mounting members  838 . In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS.  44 - 48   , there are four resistance elements  837  that are adjustable to further control the level or resistance, velocity and angle of pivot of the support plates  804  (and therefore of the foot mounts  830 ) in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. A dampening piston strut (not shown) can also be attached on one side to the mounting arms  854  and on the other side to the base  850 . Both the dampening piston strut and horizontal resistance springs  837  create resistance and control in the rotation of the support post  840  to control the horizontal pivoting of the support plates  804  (and therefore of the foot mounts  830 ) around the vertical axis B-B. The degree of resistance of the horizontal resistance springs  237  can be adjusted by extending or contracting the length of the springs by various means, including by the lead screw  819  and spring adjuster  839 . 
     Other types of resistance mechanisms (not shown) can also be used create resistance for horizontal rotation of the support plates  804  (and therefore of the foot mounts  830 ) around the vertical axis B-B. These mechanisms may include spring resistance mechanisms, rotary or linear dampers of various types (including magnetic, magnetic fluid, hydraulic, gas or spring), rubber band resistance, alternators, flywheel with various types of resistance (including magnetic, hydraulic, felt pad or other pads). These resistance mechanisms can be connected between the base  850  or horizontal support mount  852  and the mounting arms  854  that are pivoting together with the support post  840  and support plates  804 . The mounting arms  854  are attached to the support post  840 . These mounting arms can be of various shapes and may include holes or slits. 
     Similar to  FIG.  28   , when the support plates  804  pivot or rotate, the foot mounts  830  also rotate horizontally around the vertical axis B-B and around the central horizontal pivot  842 . In addition, the foot mounts  830  also tilt of pivot vertically around the horizontal axis A-A and around the pivots  827 , thus enhancing the simulation of edging of skis (i.e. pronation and supination movement in alpine skiing). In addition, the foot mounts  830  moves horizontally back and forth along rails or tracks  803 . There may be springs, dampers or other resistance mechanism installed along the rails or tracks  803 , for example between the support plates  804  and vertical supports  833 . These resistance mechanisms will create resistance to horizontal movements of foot mounts  830  along the rails or tracks  803 . In addition to pronation and supination pivotal movement of foot mounts  830 , this horizontal back and forth movement of foot mounts  830  along the rails or tracks  803  creates even more realistic ski sensation because it allows users to put more weight on the outside leg when rotating the user platform (i.e., lateral weight distribution) and shift the inside leg forward to always keep the toes in a line that is parallel to user&#39;s shoulders throughout the turn. Alternatively, the foot mounts  830  for ski position may be linked through a system of bars, cables or other linkages (not shown) to other parts of the device in a way that would make them automatically move back and forth in a horizontal plane as support plates  804  rotate around the vertical axis B-B. Additionally, the foot mounts  830  for ski position may incorporate a removable heel ramp (not shown) that can be placed under the each support plate  804  on its heel side to lift up the user&#39;s heels and further simulate a downhill ski slope. 
       FIG.  48    is an exploded perspective view of the support post  840 , foot mounts  830 , central pivot support  842  and other relevant parts of this embodiment  800 . As in other embodiments, the support post  840  consists of a vertical column with a cross bar section mounted on top of it. The central pivot  842  is represented by a donut bearing and the vertical column section of the support post  840  is threaded through the center of the central pivot  842 . The outside ring of the central pivot  842  donut bearing is mounted to the horizontal cross bar section of the support post  840 . The inside ring of the central pivot  842  donut bearing is mounted to the horizontal support mount  852 , which in turn is mounted to the base  850 . The mounting arms  854  that are attached to the bottom of that vertical column after it is threaded through the center of the central pivot  842 . 
     Optionally, mounting arms  854  and/or the base  850  may be used to attach various other components to the exercise device, such as handle bars, a harness to assist the user with balancing on the device, amortization shock absorbers or rotation stoppers to soften or limit horizontal rotation of the support plates  804  at extreme points. 
     For alpine sports enthusiasts, the lateral and rotational movements of the machine simulate the motion, whereas adjustments to the tilt and level of rotational resistance simulate the steepness of the hill and level of intensity. The users are able to use their body movement to control the width and angle of each turn. 
     A number of medical conditions and neurological disorders, such as Vertigo or Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis or stroke may cause patients to experience some difficulty with balance or produce spinning sensation and thus put patients at risk of falling, affect their quality of life and interfere with their level of activity. The device can be used to introduce balance re-training into the therapy program. The motion of swaying and turning on the machine helps patients to gain better control of their body and reduce risk of falls. By gradually increasing the tilt and resistance of the machine, patients can further improve their balance, coordination, concentration, strength and reflexes. 
     Physical therapists or doctors can incorporate the machine into their treatment plans that aim to improve strength, flexibility and range of motion of people who suffered from knee and ankle injuries or are recovering from injuries to their quads, glutes, and hamstrings or calve muscles and therefore require balance and strength exercises to get back in shape. The device allows to reduce joint and muscle impairments and increase joint and muscle mobility and function. 
     The most difficult obstacles to the continuing usage of any exercise equipment are boredom and repetitiveness. Introducing fun into any fitness activity can remove these obstacles and motivate the athletes to engage in physical exercise. The exercise device of this invention can be used as a gaming controller that, when connected to a computer and video panel, monitor or Virtual Reality glasses, would allow users to transform their motions into electronic signals that control video games. The exercise device users will be able to combine their workouts with different video games, such as hover board races, skateboard contests, air fights, alpine or water sports races and obstacle runs. The users could choose levels depending on their fitness ability and engage in simulated skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, kite boarding or surfboarding through various obstacles and terrains on video screens. Video games can provide athletes with instant visual feedback on their movements and improve their concentration, strength and reflexes. The video games combined with this exercise device can serve as strong drivers to motivate people to be more active and improve their fitness. In addition to a single mode, the exercise device will have capabilities to operate in a multiplayer mode or in a social competition mode that would allow athletes to compete with each other or other people online. Thus, exercise device will remove the strain of physical activity from athletes&#39; conscience and allow them to exercise longer and more often. Additionally, the exercise device can be combined with video classes and specific exercise programs of various degrees of difficulty in order to enhance user experience. Such classes or programs can be either streamed live or downloaded and viewed on a video panel, monitor or Virtual Reality glasses. 
     The invention has been described with reference to various specific and illustrative aspects of the present invention and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention. Many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the description. 
     ELEMENTS 
     FIGS.  1 - 7   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 100 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 110 
                 User 
               
               
                 120 
                 Board on top of the user platform 146 
               
               
                 130 
                 Foot mounts for foot placement positions on board 120. Alternatively, the foot mounts 
               
               
                   
                 can be mounted directly on top of the user platform (when the device is used without 
               
               
                   
                 any board 120 placed on top of the user platform 146). 
               
               
                 146 
                 user platform mounted on top of support post (not shown). 
               
               
                 150 
                 Base (on ground). 
               
               
                 A-A 
                 Horizontal axis 
               
               
                 B-B 
                 Vertical axis 
               
               
                 180 
                 Sensors for gaming, physical data, motion data, which can be placed on the user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 146, user board 120, support post or other parts of the device. 
               
               
                 181 
                 CPU - Game console - tablet - Virtual Reality glasses - computer - wired or wireless 
               
               
                 182 
                 Video monitor for viewing 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  8 - 16   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 200 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 219 
                 Lead screw 
               
               
                 221 
                 Vertical resistance springs that create resistance for lateral tilt or pivot of the user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 246 around the horizontal A-A axis. 
               
               
                 222 
                 Hex drive screw 
               
               
                 223 
                 Washer 
               
               
                 224 
                 Main shaft used for purposes of mounting the outer tube of the vertical column section of 
               
               
                   
                 the support post 240 
               
               
                 225 
                 Vertical column section of the support post 240 
               
               
                 230 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 237 
                 Horizontal resistance springs to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 246 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 238 
                 Mounting members that attach horizontal resistance springs 237 to the base 250 (as in 
               
               
                   
                 FIGS. 8-11) or that are sliding along the lead screw 219 (as in FIGS. 12-16) 
               
               
                 239 
                 Spring adjuster (including a crank with lead screw or other mechanism) adjusting the 
               
               
                   
                 length of horizontal resistance springs 237 
               
               
                 240 
                 Support post - interface between base 250 and user platform 246. The support post 240 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical column section. The support post 240 rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 242. The support post 240 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 242 are mounted on horizontal support mount 252 or they can 
               
               
                   
                 be mounted directly on base 250. 
               
               
                 242 
                 Central horizontal pivot that creates rotation of the support post 240 (and of the user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 246 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The central 
               
               
                   
                 pivot can be located either below or inside the vertical column section of the support post 
               
               
                   
                 240 or between the horizontal cross bar section and vertical column section of the support 
               
               
                   
                 post 240. 
               
               
                 244 
                 Vertical pivots that create lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 246 around the 
               
               
                   
                 horizontal axis A-A. 
               
               
                 245 
                 Vertical bars mounted on the vertical pivots 244. The user platform 246 is attached to 
               
               
                   
                 these vertical bars. 
               
               
                 246 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 248 
                 Dampening piston struts-dampers to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 246 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 250 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 252, support post 240 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; storage. 
               
               
                 252 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 240 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 254 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers 248 or springs, elastic bands, or other 
               
               
                   
                 types of resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 movement of the device around the vertical B-B axis. The mounting arms can also be 
               
               
                   
                 used to attach safety rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 283 
                 Potentiometer on top of the support post 240 or on top of the connection that connects the 
               
               
                   
                 support post 240 to central horizontal pivot 242 
               
               
                 285 
                 Vertical column connector 
               
               
                 286 
                 Cross bar connector plate 
               
               
                 287 
                 Vertical pivot connector plates 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  17 - 30   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 300 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 303 
                 Rails that are used in conjunction with the linear bearings 328 that allow the foot mounts 
               
               
                   
                 330 to slide horizontally 
               
               
                 304 
                 Support plates that are used for purposes of mounting the linear bearings 328, rails 303 
               
               
                   
                 and foot mounts 330. 
               
               
                 324 
                 Main shaft used for purposes of mounting the outer tube of the vertical column section of 
               
               
                   
                 the support post 340 (as described in FIG. 11a). Alternatively, the vertical column section 
               
               
                   
                 of the support post 340 can be pressed into the central point 340 consisting of a donut 
               
               
                   
                 bearing (as described in FIG. 11b) 
               
               
                 326 
                 Slit along the middle of bottom plate 364 
               
               
                 327 
                 Pivots that are used to attach the foot mounts 330 to vertical supports 333 of the ski 
               
               
                   
                 module 
               
               
                 328 
                 Linear bearings that slide horizontally on rails 303. Foot mounts 330 are attached to 
               
               
                   
                 vertical supports 333 that are mounted on the linear bearings. 
               
               
                 329 
                 Cap at the bottom of the quick release skewer lock 356. The cap secures a cone shaped 
               
               
                   
                 tapered bearing 359. 
               
               
                 330 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 331 
                 Ski foot base 
               
               
                 333 
                 Vertical supports that are used to attach cradles with foot mounts 330 
               
               
                 334 
                 Mounting members that together with foot mounts 330 form cradles that are part of the 
               
               
                   
                 ski module or snowboard module. 
               
               
                 337 
                 Horizontal resistance springs to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 346 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 338 
                 Mounting members that attach horizontal resistance springs 337 to the base 350 (as in 
               
               
                   
                 FIGS. 8-11) or that are sliding along a lead screw (not shown) similar to the sliding 
               
               
                   
                 mounting members 238 that are sliding along the lead screw 219 in FIGS. 12-16 
               
               
                 339 
                 Spring adjuster (including a crank with lead screw or other mechanism) adjusting the 
               
               
                   
                 length of horizontal resistance springs 337 
               
               
                 340 
                 Support post - interface between base 350 and user platform 346. The support post 340 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical column section. The support post 340 rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 340. The support post 340 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 342 under it are mounted on horizontal support mount 352 or 
               
               
                   
                 they can be mounted directly on base 350. 
               
               
                 342 
                 Central horizontal pivot - creates rotation of the support post 340 (and user platform 346 
               
               
                   
                 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The central pivot can be 
               
               
                   
                 located either below or inside the vertical column section of the support post 340 or 
               
               
                   
                 between the cross bar and vertical column sections of the support post 340. 
               
               
                 344 
                 Vertical pivots- creates lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 346 around the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 A-A axis 
               
               
                 346 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 348 
                 Dampening piston struts-dampers to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 346 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 350 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 352, support post 340 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; storage. 
               
               
                 352 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 340 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 354 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers springs, elastic bands, or other types 
               
               
                   
                 of resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal movement of 
               
               
                   
                 the device around the vertical B-B axis. The mounting arms can also be used to attach 
               
               
                   
                 safety rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 355 
                 Metered board with recessed cone-shaped holes designed for housing the quick release 
               
               
                   
                 skewer lock 356 
               
               
                 356 
                 Quick release skewer lock 
               
               
                 357 
                 Bushing included within the shuttle with flanges 358 to reduce the freedom of movement 
               
               
                   
                 of the pin of the quick release skewer lock 356. 
               
               
                 358 
                 Shuttle with flanges that travels within the slit 370 along the middle of the top plate 360. 
               
               
                 359 
                 Tapered bearing that travels within the slit 326 along the middle of the bottom plate 364 
               
               
                 360 
                 Top plate that includes mounting arms 354, elongated section with slit 370 along the 
               
               
                   
                 middle and a semi-circular slit 368 
               
               
                 362 
                 A knob with roller pin that travels through slit 370 and through slit 326 along the middle 
               
               
                   
                 of the top plate 360 and bottom plate 364 
               
               
                 364 
                 Bottom plate with a slit 326 along the middle of that plate 
               
               
                 365 
                 Two posts attached at the end of the bottom plate 364 with a horizontal bar 366 
               
               
                   
                 connecting the two posts 365 
               
               
                 366 
                 Horizontal bar attached between the two posts 365 and connected to vertical bar and/or 
               
               
                   
                 telescopic tube 367 
               
               
                 367 
                 vertical bar and/or telescopic tube that connects the user platform 346 to the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 366 and bottom plate 364 
               
               
                 368 
                 Semi-circular slit in the top plate 360 
               
               
                 369 
                 Pivot post attached to support base 374. Bottom plate 364 (located under the top late 
               
               
                   
                 360) is attached to and rotates around the pivot post 369 
               
               
                 370 
                 Slit along the middle of the elongated section of top plate 360 
               
               
                 371 
                 Supporting roller is installed at the end of bottom plate 364 to support it when it rotates 
               
               
                   
                 around the pivot post 369. The supporting roller rolls on top of the horizontal roller plate 
               
               
                   
                 373 in semi-circular motion. 
               
               
                 373 
                 Horizontal roller plate 
               
               
                 374 
                 Support base that supports one end of the bottom plate 364. Pivot post 369 is attached to 
               
               
                   
                 the support base 374 
               
               
                 375 
                 Loop with bearing at the bottom of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube 367. Horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 366 is threaded through the loop with bearing 375 
               
               
                 383 
                 Potentiometer on top of the support post 340 or on top of the connection that connects 
               
               
                   
                 the support post 340 to central horizontal pivot 342 
               
               
                 386 
                 Cross bar connector plate 
               
               
                 387 
                 Vertical pivot connector plates 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  31 - 34   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 400 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 430 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 440 
                 Support post - interface between base 450 and user platform 446. The support post 440 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical column section. The support post 440 rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 442. The support post 440 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 442 under it are mounted on horizontal support mount 452 or 
               
               
                   
                 they can be mounted directly on base 450. 
               
               
                 442 
                 Central horizontal pivot - creates rotation of the support post 440 (and the user platform 
               
               
                   
                 446 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The central pivot can 
               
               
                   
                 be located either below or inside the vertical column section of the support post 440 or 
               
               
                   
                 between the vertical column and cross bar sections of the support post 440. 
               
               
                 444 
                 Vertical pivots- creates lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 446 around the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 axis A-A 
               
               
                 446 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 450 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 452, support post 440 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; storage. 
               
               
                 452 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 440 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 454 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers springs, elastic bands, or other types 
               
               
                   
                 of resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal movement of 
               
               
                   
                 the device around the vertical axis B-B. The mounting arms can also be used to attach 
               
               
                   
                 safety rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 465 
                 Two posts attached at the end of top plate connected with horizontal bar 466 
               
               
                 466 
                 Horizontal bar attached between the two posts 465 and connected to vertical bar and/or 
               
               
                   
                 telescopic tube 467 
               
               
                 467 
                 Vertical bar and/or telescopic tube that connects the user platform 446 to the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 466 and plate 476 
               
               
                 475 
                 Loop with bearing at the bottom of vertical bar and/or telescopic tube 467. Horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 466 is threaded through the loop with bearing 475 
               
               
                 476 
                 Plate that rotates around the vertical pin or bolt 479 and connected on one side to 
               
               
                   
                 mounting arms 454 or to the support post 440 and on the other side to vertical bar and/or 
               
               
                   
                 telescopic tube 467. Plate 476 may have a roller at the bottom to support it when it 
               
               
                   
                 rotates around vertical pin or bolt 479. 
               
               
                 477 
                 Horizontal bar connecting plate 476 to mounting arms 454 or to the support post 440. 
               
               
                   
                 Horizontal bar may also be used to connect plate 776 to vertical bar and or telescopic 
               
               
                   
                 tube 467 and user platform 446 (as in FIGS. 32-34). 
               
               
                 478 
                 Slit on plate 476 along which the horizontal bar 477 moves once it is shifted along the 
               
               
                   
                 openings or slit in the mounting arms 454 
               
               
                 479 
                 Vertical pin or bolt that attaches plate 476 to the base 452 or directly to platform 450. 
               
               
                   
                 Plate 476 pivots around the vertical pin or bolt 479. 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  35 A and  35 B Through- 38   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 500 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 530 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 540 
                 Support post - interface between base 550 and user platform 546. The support post 540 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical column section. The support post 540 rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 542. The support post 540 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 542 under it (eg as shown on FIG. 36) are mounted on 
               
               
                   
                 horizontal support mount 552 or they can be mounted directly on base 550. 
               
               
                 542 
                 Central horizontal pivot - creates rotation of the support post 540 (and user platform 546 
               
               
                   
                 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The central pivot can be 
               
               
                   
                 located either below or inside the vertical column section of the support post 540 or 
               
               
                   
                 between the cross bar and vertical column sections of the support post 540. 
               
               
                 544 
                 Vertical pivots- create lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 546 around the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 A-A axis 
               
               
                 546 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 550 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 552, support post 540 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; storage. 
               
               
                 551 
                 Transverse mounting plates (as shown on FIG. 38) attached to base 550 (for purposes of 
               
               
                   
                 attaching the fixed vertical support plates 595) 
               
               
                 552 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 540 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 554 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers (not shown on FIGS. 35-38 but 
               
               
                   
                 similar to dampers 248 or 348 shown herein) springs, elastic bands, or other types of 
               
               
                   
                 resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal movement of the 
               
               
                   
                 device around the vertical B-B axis. The mounting arms can also be used to attach safety 
               
               
                   
                 rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 590 
                 Arc guide ramps, rails or tracks for transverse rotational movements 
               
               
                 591 
                 Horizontal cross-piece (as shown on FIG. 38) connecting the two arc guide ramps, rails or 
               
               
                   
                 tracks 590 into a unified structural element 
               
               
                 592 
                 Bearing wheels (rollers) mounted to 546 for effecting transverse rotational movements 
               
               
                 593 
                 Pivoting linkage arms (as shown on FIG. 38) attached to the outer edges of arc guide 
               
               
                   
                 ramps, rails or tracks 590 
               
               
                 594 
                 Lever arms (to effect an up &amp; down vertical movement for the arc guide ramps, rails or 
               
               
                   
                 tracks 590) 
               
               
                 595 
                 Fixed vertical support plates for purposes of installing the pivoting linkage arms 593 
               
               
                 596 
                 Pivots for lever arms 594 
               
               
                 597 
                 Upper pivot point for the relationship between pivoting linkage arms 593 and fixed 
               
               
                   
                 vertical support plates 595 
               
               
                 598 
                 Mounting member for the lever aims 594 and pivots 596 
               
               
                 599 
                 Slit at the bottom of fixed vertical support plates 595 limiting means for the travel of 
               
               
                   
                 pivoting linkage arms 593 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  39  Through  40   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 600 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 630 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 640 
                 Support post - interface between base 650 and user platform 646. The support post 
               
               
                   
                 rotates in various directions (including in the horizontal plane around the vertical axis B- 
               
               
                   
                 B and vertical plane around the horizontal axis A-A) by means of the spherical 
               
               
                   
                 bearing/ball joint 684. The support post 640 is mounted on the horizontal support mount 
               
               
                   
                 652 or it can be mounted directly on base 650. 
               
               
                 646 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 650 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 652, support post 640 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted 
               
               
                 652 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 640 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 654 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers (not shown on FIGS. 41-42 but 
               
               
                   
                 similar to dampers 248 and 348 shown on FIGS. 8-30) springs, elastic bands, or other 
               
               
                   
                 types of resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 movement of the device around the vertical B-B axis. The mounting arms can also be 
               
               
                   
                 used to attach safety rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 660 
                 Top plate that includes mounting arms 654 and elongated section with slit in the middle 
               
               
                   
                 and a semi-circular slit (not shown) 
               
               
                 662 
                 A knob with roller pin that travels through slits along the middle of the top plate 660 and 
               
               
                   
                 bottom plate 664 
               
               
                 664 
                 Bottom plate with a slit along the middle of that plate (not shown). Bottom plate 664 is 
               
               
                   
                 located under the top late 660 is attached to and rotates around the pivot post (not shown) 
               
               
                   
                 that is connected to the support base 674. 
               
               
                 665 
                 Two posts attached at the end of the top late 660 with a connection bar 666 
               
               
                 666 
                 Horizontal bar attached between the two posts 665 and connected to vertical bar/ 
               
               
                   
                 telescopic tube 667 through the loop with bearing 675. 
               
               
                 667 
                 Vertical bar and/or telescopic tube that connects the user platform 646 to the bottom 
               
               
                   
                 plate 664 through the horizontal bar 666. 
               
               
                 674 
                 Support base that supports one end of the bottom plate 664. A pivot post (not shown but 
               
               
                   
                 similar to e.g. the pivot post 369 on FIG. 26) is attached to the support base 374 
               
               
                 675 
                 Loop with bearing at the bottom of vertical bar and/or telescopic tube 667. Horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 666 is threaded through loop with bearing 675 
               
               
                 684 
                 Spherical bearing/ball joint installed between the support post 640 and the user platform 
               
               
                   
                 646. The spherical bearing/ball joint 684 can also be installed between the support post 
               
               
                   
                 640 and the horizontal support mount 652 or base 650. 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  41 - 43   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 700 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 703 
                 Rails or tracks that are used in conjunction with the linear bearings 728 that allow the 
               
               
                   
                 foot mounts 730 to slide horizontally 
               
               
                 704 
                 Support plates that are used for purposes of mounting the linear bearings 728, rails 703 
               
               
                   
                 and foot mounts 730. 
               
               
                 705 
                 Alternator 
               
               
                 706 
                 Alternator shaft 
               
               
                 707 
                 Top and bottom alternator pulleys or sprockets 
               
               
                 708 
                 Alternator mounting members 
               
               
                 709 
                 Gear mounting member 
               
               
                 711 
                 Central pulley or sprocket 
               
               
                 712 
                 Central belt or chain 
               
               
                 713 
                 Gear carrier post 
               
               
                 714 
                 Gear pulley or sprocket 
               
               
                 715 
                 Drive pulley or sprocket 
               
               
                 716 
                 Planetary pulley or sprocket 
               
               
                 717 
                 Top alternator belt or chain 
               
               
                 718 
                 Bottom alternator belt or chain 
               
               
                 726 
                 Slit along the middle of bottom plate 764 
               
               
                 727 
                 Pivots that are used to attach the foot mounts 730 to vertical supports 733 of the ski 
               
               
                   
                 module 
               
               
                 728 
                 Linear bearings that slide horizontally on rails or tracks 703. Foot mounts 730 are 
               
               
                   
                 attached to vertical supports 733 that are mounted on the linier bearings 728. 
               
               
                 730 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 731 
                 Ski foot base 
               
               
                 733 
                 Vertical supports that are used to attach foot mounts 730 
               
               
                 734 
                 Mounting members that together with foot mounts 730 form cradles that are part of the 
               
               
                   
                 ski module. 
               
               
                 740 
                 Support post - interface between base 750 and user platform 746. The support post 740 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top 
               
               
                   
                 of the vertical column section. The support post rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 742. The support post 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 742 under it are mounted on horizontal support mount 752 
               
               
                   
                 or they can be mounted directly on base 750. 
               
               
                 742 
                 Central horizontal pivot - creates rotation of the support post 740 (and of the user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 746 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The 
               
               
                   
                 central pivot can be located either below or inside the vertical column section of the 
               
               
                   
                 support post 740 or between the cross bar and vertical column sections of the support 
               
               
                   
                 post 740. 
               
               
                 744 
                 Vertical pivots- create lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 746 around the 
               
               
                   
                 horizontal axis A-A 
               
               
                 746 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 750 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 752, support post 740 and associated other 
               
               
                   
                 parts above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; 
               
               
                   
                 storage. 
               
               
                 752 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 740 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 754 
                 Mounting arms. The mounting arms 754 can be used to attach safety rails, handles, 
               
               
                   
                 bars or poles. 
               
               
                 760 
                 Top plate that includes mounting arms 754 and elongated section with slit 770 along 
               
               
                   
                 the middle and a semi-circular slit (not shown) 
               
               
                 762 
                 A knob with roller pin that travels through slit 770 and through slit 726 along the 
               
               
                   
                 middle of the top plate 760 and bottom plate 764 respectively 
               
               
                 764 
                 Bottom plate with a slit 726 along the middle of that plate. The bottom plate 764 is 
               
               
                   
                 supported on one end by the support base with the pivot post (not shown but similar to 
               
               
                   
                 the support base 374 and pivot post 369 described herein). The bottom plate 764 is 
               
               
                   
                 supported on the other end by the supporting roller 771. The bottom plate 764 rotates 
               
               
                   
                 around the pivot post (not shown but similar to the pivot post 369 described herein). 
               
               
                 765 
                 Two posts attached at the end of the bottom plate 764 with a horizontal bar 766 
               
               
                   
                 connecting the two posts 765 
               
               
                 766 
                 Horizontal bar attached between the two posts 765 and connected to vertical bar and/or 
               
               
                   
                 telescopic tube 767 
               
               
                 767 
                 Vertical bar and/or telescopic tube that connects the user platform 746 to the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 bar 766 and bottom plate 764 
               
               
                 770 
                 Slit along the middle of the elongated section of top plate 760 
               
               
                 771 
                 Supporting roller installed at the end of bottom plate 764 to support it when it rotates 
               
               
                   
                 around the pivot post (not shown but similar to the pivot post 369 described herein). 
               
               
                   
                 The supporting roller rolls on top of the horizontal roller plate 773 in semi-circular 
               
               
                   
                 motion. 
               
               
                 773 
                 Horizontal roller plate 
               
               
                 775 
                 Loop with bearing at the bottom of the vertical bar and/or telescopic tube 767. The 
               
               
                   
                 horizontal bar 766 is threaded through the loop with bearing 775 
               
               
                 783 
                 Potentiometer on top of the support post 740 or on top of the connection that connects 
               
               
                   
                 the support post 740 to central horizontal pivot 742 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     FIGS.  44 - 48   
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Part 
                   
               
               
                 No. 
                 Element 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 800 
                 Exercise device 
               
               
                 803 
                 Rails that are used in conjunction with the linear bearings 828 that allow the foot mounts 
               
               
                   
                 830 to slide horizontally 
               
               
                 804 
                 Support plates that are used for purposes of mounting the linear bearings 828, rails 803 
               
               
                   
                 and foot mounts 830. 
               
               
                 819 
                 Lead screw 
               
               
                 827 
                 Pivots that are used to attach the foot mounts 830 to vertical supports 833 of the ski 
               
               
                   
                 module 
               
               
                 328 
                 Linear bearings that slide horizontally on rails 803. Foot mounts 830 are attached to 
               
               
                   
                 vertical supports 833 that are mounted on the linier bearings. 
               
               
                 830 
                 Foot mounts 
               
               
                 833 
                 Vertical supports that are used to attach foot mounts 830 
               
               
                 834 
                 Mounting members that together with foot mounts 830 form cradles that are part of the 
               
               
                   
                 ski module 
               
               
                 837 
                 Horizontal resistance springs to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 846 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 838 
                 Mounting members that attach horizontal resistance springs 837 to the base 850 
               
               
                 839 
                 Spring adjuster (including a crank or other mechanism) adjusting the length of horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 resistance springs 837 
               
               
                 840 
                 Support post - interface between base 850 and user platform 846. The support post 840 
               
               
                   
                 consists of a vertical column section and horizontal cross bar section mounted on top of 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical column section. The support post 840 rotates in the horizontal plane around 
               
               
                   
                 the vertical axis B-B by means of the central horizontal pivot 842. The support post 840 
               
               
                   
                 and central horizontal pivot 842 under it are mounted on horizontal support mount 852 or 
               
               
                   
                 they can be mounted directly on base 850. 
               
               
                 842 
                 Central horizontal pivot - creates rotation of the support post 840 (and user platform 846 
               
               
                   
                 attached to it) in horizontal plane around the vertical axis B-B. The central pivot can be 
               
               
                   
                 located either below or inside the vertical column section of the support post 842 or 
               
               
                   
                 between the cross bar and vertical column sections of the support post 840. 
               
               
                 844 
                 Vertical pivots- creates lateral tilt or pivot of the user platform 846 around the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 A-A axis 
               
               
                 846 
                 User platform 
               
               
                 848 
                 Dampening piston struts-dampers to modulate horizontal rotational movements of user 
               
               
                   
                 platform 846 around the vertical axis B-B 
               
               
                 850 
                 Base to which horizontal support mount 852, support post 840 and associated other parts 
               
               
                   
                 above are mounted. The base may include wheels on one side for transport &amp; storage. 
               
               
                 852 
                 Horizontal support mount for the support post 840 &amp; associated other parts above 
               
               
                 854 
                 Mounting arms with holes or slits to attach dampers springs, elastic bands, or other types 
               
               
                   
                 of resistance as further described herein to control resistance of horizontal movement of 
               
               
                   
                 the device around the vertical B-B axis. The mounting arms can also be used to attach 
               
               
                   
                 safety rails, handles, bars or poles. 
               
               
                 864 
                 Bottom plate with a slit along the middle of that plate (not shown) 
               
               
                 871 
                 Supporting roller is installed at the end of bottom plate 864 to support it when it rotates 
               
               
                   
                 around a pivot post (not shown). The supporting roller rolls on top of the horizontal 
               
               
                   
                 roller plate 873 in semi-circular motion. 
               
               
                 873 
                 Horizontal roller plate 
               
               
                 888 
                 Resistance connector