Patent Publication Number: US-6340340-B1

Title: Exercise method and apparatus

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/207,057, filed on Dec. 7, 1998 (U.S. Pat. No. 6,063,009), which in turn, is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/837,986, filed on Apr. 15, 1997 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,954). 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to exercise methods and apparatus and more particularly, to exercise equipment which facilitates exercise through a curved path of motion. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Exercise equipment has been designed to facilitate a variety of exercise motions. For example, treadmills allow a person to walk or run in place; stepper machines allow a person to climb in place; bicycle machines allow a person to pedal in place; and other machines allow a person to skate and/or stride in place. Yet another type of exercise equipment has been designed to facilitate relatively more complicated exercise motions and/or to better simulate real life activity. Such equipment typically uses some sort of linkage assembly to convert a relatively simple motion, such as circular, into a relatively more complex motion, such as elliptical. Some examples of such equipment may be found in United States patents which are disclosed in an Information Disclosure Statement submitted herewith. 
     Exercise equipment has also been designed to facilitate full body exercise. For example, reciprocating cables or pivoting arm poles have been used on many of the equipment types discussed in the preceding paragraph to facilitate contemporaneous upper body and lower body exercise. Some examples of such equipment may be found in United States patents which are disclosed in an Information Disclosure Statement submitted herewith. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention may be seen to provide a novel linkage assembly and corresponding exercise apparatus suitable for linking circular motion to relatively more complex, generally elliptical motion. On one embodiment, for example, left and right cranks are rotatably mounted on a frame, and left and right crank supports are mounted on respective cranks. Left and right rails are movably interconnected between the frame and respective crank supports in such a manner that first ends of the rails are supported by rollers, and opposite, second ends of the rails are supported by pivot pins. Left and right foot supports are rollably mounted on respective rails, and cables link rotation of the cranks to movement of the foot supports relative to the rails. Generally speaking, the foot supports move through respective elliptical paths having major axes which are twice as long as a crank diameter defined between the crank supports. 
     In another respect, the present invention may be seen to provide a novel linkage assembly and corresponding exercise apparatus suitable for linking reciprocal motion to relatively more complex, generally elliptical motion. On the foregoing embodiment, for example, left and right handlebars may be pivotally connected to the frame and linked to respective foot supports. For example, a forward end of each foot support may be pivotally connected to a lower end of a respective handlebar, and a rearward end of each foot support may be rollably mounted on a respective rail, so that the handlebars are constrained to pivot back and forth as the foot supports move through respective elliptical paths. 
     On another embodiment, a roller is rotatably mounted on a crank and disposed between a force receiving member and a support member. Rotation of the crank causes the members to pivot up and down relative to the frame and the foot supporting member to move back and forth relative to the support member. The roller may be provided with a first diameter and/or gear set to engage the force receiving member and a second diameter and/or gear set to engage the support member. Such a linkage may be used to move the force receiving member through a range of motion having a dimension longer than the effective crank diameter. 
     In yet another respect, the present invention may be seen to provide a novel linkage assembly and corresponding exercise apparatus suitable for adjusting the angle of the generally elliptical path of motion relative to a horizontal surface on which the apparatus rests. On any of the foregoing embodiments, for example, the support member may be pivotally mounted to a first frame member, and/or the force receiving member may be pivotally mounted to a pivoting handle member, either of which may be locked in one of a plurality of positions along a post. An increase in the elevation of the pivot axis, results in a relatively more strenuous, “uphill” exercise motion. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING 
     With reference to the Figures of the Drawing, wherein like numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views, 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first exercise apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the underside of a linkage assembly on the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3 is a side view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with portions broken away beneath the foot skates; 
     FIG. 4 is a front view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 5 is a side view of an alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with portions broken away beneath the foot skates to show coil springs; 
     FIG. 6 is a side view of another alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with portions broken away beneath the foot skates to show coil springs; 
     FIG. 7 is a side view of yet another alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with portions broken away beneath the foot skates to show coil springs; 
     FIG. 8 is a side view of still another alternative embodiment of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with portions broken away beneath the foot skates and proximate the lower end of one handle for purposes of clarity; 
     FIG. 9 is a side view of another exercise apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present invention and incorporating the linkage assembly of FIG. 2; 
     FIG. 10 a  is a diagrammatic side view of an elevation adjustment mechanism suitable for use on exercise apparatus constructed according to the present invention; 
     FIG. 10 b  is a diagrammatic side view of another elevation adjustment mechanism suitable for use on exercise apparatus constructed according to the present invention; 
     FIG. 11 is a perspective view of yet another exercise apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present invention; 
     FIG. 12 is a side view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 13 is a top view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 14 is a rear view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 15 is a front view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 16 is a side view of an alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with only one side of the linkage assembly shown; 
     FIG. 17 is a side view of another alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with only one side of the linkage assembly shown; 
     FIG. 18 is a side view of yet another alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with only one side of the linkage assembly shown; 
     FIG. 19 is a side view of still another alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with only one side of the linkage assembly shown; 
     FIG. 20 is a side view of yet one more alternative embodiment to the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, with only one side of the linkage assembly shown; 
     FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic side view of a first alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic side view of a second alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic side view of a third alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic side view of a fourth alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 25 is a diagrammatic side view of a fifth alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 26 is a diagrammatic side view of a sixth alternative arrangement for movably and adjustably connecting the force receiving member to the frame; 
     FIG. 27 is a side view of an alternative roller arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; 
     FIG. 28 is a side view of another alternative roller arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; 
     FIG. 29 is a side view of yet another alternative roller arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; 
     FIG. 30 is a side view of still another alternative roller arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; 
     FIG. 31 is a side view of yet one more alternative roller arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; 
     FIG. 32 is a side view of an alternative rack arrangement suitable for use with the present invention; and 
     FIG. 33 is a side view of another alternative rack arrangement suitable for use with the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     A first exercise apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  100  in FIGS. 1-4. The apparatus  100  generally includes a frame  120  and a linkage assembly  150  movably mounted on the frame  120 . Generally speaking, the linkage assembly  150  moves relative to the frame  120  in a manner that links rotation of a flywheel  160  to generally elliptical motion of a force receiving member  180 . The term “elliptical motion” is intended in a broad sense to describe a closed path of motion having a relatively longer first axis and a relatively shorter second axis (which extends perpendicular to the first axis). 
     The frame  120  includes a base  122 , a forward stanchion or upright  130 , and a rearward stanchion or upright  140 . The base  122  may be described as generally I-shaped and is designed to rest upon a generally horizontal floor surface  99  (see FIGS.  3  and  4 ). The apparatus  100  is generally symmetrical about a vertical plane extending lengthwise through the base  122  (perpendicular to the transverse members at each end thereof), the only exception being the relative orientation of certain parts of the linkage assembly  150  on opposite sides of the plane of symmetry. In the embodiment  100 , the “right-hand” components are one hundred and eighty degrees out of phase relative to the “left-hand” components. However, like reference numerals are used to designate both the “right-hand” and “left-hand” parts on the apparatus  100 , and when reference is made to one or more parts on only one side of the apparatus, it is to be understood that corresponding part(s) are disposed on the opposite side of the apparatus  100 . Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the portions of the frame  120  which are intersected by the plane of symmetry exist individually and thus, do not have any “opposite side” counterparts. Moreover, to the extent that reference is made to forward or rearward portions of the apparatus  100 , it is to be understood that a person could exercise while facing in either direction relative to the linkage assembly  150 . 
     The forward stanchion  130  extends perpendicularly upward from the base  122  and supports a telescoping tube or post  131 . A plurality of holes  138  are formed in the post  131 , and at least one hole is formed in the upper end of the stanchion  130  to selectively align with any one of the holes  138 . A pin  128 , having a ball detent, may be inserted through an aligned pair of holes to secure the post  131  in any of several positions relative to the stanchion  130  (and relative to the floor surface  99 ). An upper, distal end of the post  131  supports a user accessible platform  139  which may, for example, provide information regarding and/or facilitate adjustment of exercise parameters. 
     A first hole extends laterally through the post  131  to receive a shaft  133  for reasons discussed below. A second hole extends laterally through the post  131  to receive a shaft  135  relative to which a pair of handle members  230  are rotatably secured. In particular, a lower end of each of the handle members  230  is rotatably mounted on an opposite end of the shaft  135  in such a manner that each handle member  230  is independently movable relative to one another and the post  131 . Resistance to handle pivoting may be provided in the form of friction discs or by other means known in the art. Each handle member  230  also includes an upper, distal portion  234  which is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  180 . 
     The rearward stanchion  140  extends perpendicularly upward from the base  122  and supports a bearing assembly. An axle  164  is inserted through a laterally extending hole in the bearing assembly to support a pair of flywheels  160  in a manner known in the art. For example, the axle  164  may be inserted through the hole, and then a flywheel  160  may be keyed to each of the protruding ends of the axle  164 , on opposite sides of the stanchion  140 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that the flywheels  160  could be replaced by some other rotating member(s) which may or may not, in turn, be connected to one or more flywheels. These rotating members  160  rotate about an axis designated as A. 
     A radially displaced shaft  166  is rigidly secured to each flywheel  160  by means known in the art. For example, the shaft  166  may be inserted into a hole in the flywheel  160  and welded in place. The shaft  166  extends axially away from the flywheel  160  at a point radially displaced from the axis A, and thus, the shaft  166  rotates at a fixed radius about the axis A. In other words, the shaft  166  and the flywheel  160  cooperate to define a crank having a crank radius. 
     A roller  170  is rotatably mounted on each shaft  166 . The roller  170  on the right side of the apparatus  100  rotates about an axis B, and the roller  170  on the left side of the apparatus  100  rotates about an axis C. In the embodiment  100 , each of the rollers  170  has a smooth cylindrical surface which bears against and supports a rearward portion or end  206  of a respective rail or support  200 . In particular, the rearward end  206  may be generally described as having an inverted U-shaped profile into which an upper portion of the roller  170  protrudes. The “base” of the inverted U-shaped profile is defined by a flat bearing surface  207  which bears against or rides on the cylindrical surface of the roller  170 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that other structures (e.g. the shaft  166  alone) could be used in place of the roller  170 . 
     Each of the rails  200  extends from the rearward end  206  to a forward end  203 , with an intermediate portion  208  disposed therebetween. The forward end  203  of each rail  200  is movably connected to the frame  120 , forward of the flywheels  160 . In particular, the shaft  133  may be inserted into a hole extending laterally through the tube  131  and into holes extending laterally through the forward ends  203  of the rails  200 . The shaft  133  may be keyed in place relative to the stanchion  130 , and the forward ends  203  on the shaft  133  may be secured in place by nuts. 
     A force receiving member  180  is rollably mounted on the intermediate portion  208  of each rail or track  200  in a manner known in the art. In the embodiment  100 , the intermediate portions  208  may be generally described as having an I-shaped profile or as having a pair of C-shaped channels which open away from one another. Each channel  209  functions as a race or guide for one or more rollers rotatably mounted on each side of the foot skate  180 . Each force receiving member or skate  180  provides an upwardly facing support surface  188  sized and configured to support a person&#39;s foot. Thus, the force receiving members  180  may be described as skates or foot skates, and the intermediate portions  208  of the rails  200  may be defined as the portions of the rails  200  along which the skates  180  may travel. Alternatively, the intermediate portions  208  may be defined as the portions of the rails  200  between the rearward ends  206  (which roll over the rollers  170 ) and the forward ends  203  (which are rotatably mounted to the frame  120 ). 
     In the embodiment  100 , both the end portions  206  and the intermediate portions  208  of the support members  200  are linear. However, either or both may be configured as a curve without departing from the scope of the present invention. Recognizing that the rail  200  and the skate  180  cooperate to support a person&#39;s foot relative to the frame  120  and the crank  160 , they may be described collectively as a foot support. Also, the rails  200  may be said to provide a means for movably interconnecting the flywheels  160  and the force receiving members  180 ; the rails  200  may also be said to provide a means for movably interconnecting the force receiving members  180  and the frame  120 ; and the rollers  170  may be said to provide a means for movably interconnecting the flywheels  160  and the rails  200 . 
     The shafts  166  may be said to provide a means for interconnecting the flywheels  160  and the force receiving members  180 . In particular, a separate flexible member or strap  190  is associated with the skate  180 , rail  200 , and flywheel  160  on each side of the apparatus  100 . A first end  192  of each strap  190  is connected to a rail  200  proximate the rear end  206  thereof. An intermediate portion  195  of each strap  190  extends to and about the shaft  166 , then to and about a pulley  205 , which is rotatably mounted on the rail  200  proximate the rear end thereof. A second end  198  of each strap  190  is connected to the skate  180 . 
     An arrow R is shown on the left flywheel  160  in FIG. 3 to facilitate explanation of the relationship between rotation of the flywheel  160  and movement of the skate  180 . As the flywheel  160  rotates in the direction R, the shaft  166  moves upward and rearward relative to the frame  120 , the axis A, and the floor surface  99 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that at this point in the cycle, the vertical component of the shaft&#39;s motion is significantly smaller than the horizontal component of the shaft&#39;s motion. Upward movement of the left shaft  166  causes the left rail  200  to move upward (as indicated by the arrow V), but the left rail  200  does not move rearward (or forward) because of its connection to the shaft  133  at the front stanchion  130 . Recognizing that the left skate  180  is supported on the left rail  200 , the left skate  180  moves upward (and downward) together with the left rail  200 . 
     The left skate  180  also moves forward (as indicated by the arrow H) relative to the left rail  200 , as the right skate  180  moves rearward relative to the right rail  200 . In particular, on the right side of the apparatus  100 , the right shaft  166  pulls forward on the intermediate portion  195  of the right strap  190 , which is routed in a manner that requires the right foot skate  180  to move rearward twice as much as the right shaft  166  moves forward; and similarly on the left side of the apparatus  100 , movement of the left shaft  166  one inch rearward coincides with movement of the left skate  180  two inches forward. In other words, each skate  180  travels fore and aft through a range of motion equal to four times the radial displacement between the axle  164  and a respective shaft  166 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that the straps  190  could be routed in other ways to obtain different ratios between foot skate travel and the effective crank radius. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the components of the linkage assembly  150  may also be arranged in other ways relative to one another without altering the ratio between foot skate travel and the effective crank radius. 
     A third flexible member or cord  220  is interconnected between the left skate  180  and the right skate  180  to constrain them to move in reciprocating fashion along their respective tracks  200 . In particular, a first end  222  of the cord  220  is connected to the right skate  180 . An intermediate portion  224  of the cord  220  extends to and about a post  202 , extending downward from the right rail  200  proximate the forward end  203  thereof, then to and about a post  202 , extending downward from the left rail  200  proximate the forward end  203  thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that rollers could be mounted on the posts  202  to facilitate movement of the cord  220  relative thereto. A second, opposite end  226  of the cord  220  is connected to the left skate  180 . A spring  229  is placed in series with each end  224  and  226  of the cord  220  to keep the cord  220  taut while also allowing sufficient freedom of movement during operation. 
     Recognizing that the flexible members  220  and  190  cooperate to link the skates  180  to one another and to the cranks  160 , the cord  220  may be said to provide a means for interconnecting the skates  180 , and the straps  190  may be said to provide a link between and/or a means for interconnecting the skates  180  and the cranks  160 . 
     For ease of reference in both this detailed description and the claims set forth below, components are sometimes described with reference to “ends” having a particular characteristic and/or being connected to another part. For example, the cord  220  may be said to have a first end connected to the right skate and a second end connected to the left skate. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to links or members which terminate immediately beyond their points of connection with other parts. Thus, the term “end” should be interpreted broadly, in a manner that includes “rearward portion” and/or “behind an intermediate portion”, for instance. For example, a single flexible member could be used in place of the two straps  200  and the one cord  220 , with intermediate portions thereof rigidly secured to the foot skates. 
     The embodiment  100  provides leg exercise motion together with the option of independent arm exercise motion. However, linked or interconnected leg and arm exercise motions are also available in accordance with the present invention. For example, in FIG. 5, an exercise apparatus  300  provides leg exercise motion identical to that of the first apparatus  100 . Among other things, the front ends of the rails  200  are likewise pivotally mounted to the frame  320  by means of the shaft  133 . However, the apparatus  300  has handle members  330  which are rigidly secured to the rails  200 , rather than rotatably mounted directly to the frame. In particular, each of the handle members  330  extends from a first or lower end  332 , which is welded to the front end of the rail  200 , to a second or upper end  334 , which is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the skates  180 . As a result, the handle ends  334  are constrained to pivot back and forth as the rails  200  pivot up and down. 
     Another “linked” embodiment of the present invention is designated as  400  in FIG.  6 . The exercise apparatus  400  provides leg exercise motion identical to that of the first apparatus  100 . Among other things, the front ends of the rails  200  are likewise pivotally mounted to the frame  420  by means of the shaft  133  at a first elevation above the floor surface  99 . Each handle member  430  has an intermediate portion  435  which is pivotally connected to a trunnion  425  disposed on the frame  420  at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface  99 . An upper, distal portion  434  of each handle member  430  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  180 . A lower, distal portion  436  of each handle member  430  is rotatably connected to one end of a handle link  440 . An opposite end of the handle link  440  is rotatably connected to the force receiving member  180 . As a result, the handle members  430  are constrained to pivot back and forth as the force receiving members  180  move through a generally elliptical path of motion. 
     Yet another “linked” embodiment of the present invention is designated as  500  in FIG.  7 . The exercise apparatus  500  provides leg exercise motion identical to that of the first apparatus  100 , and among other things, the front ends of the rails  200  are likewise pivotally mounted to the frame  520  by means of the shaft  133  at a first elevation above the floor surface  99 . Each handle member  530  has an intermediate portion  535  which is pivotally connected to a trunnion  525  disposed on the frame  520  at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface  99 . An upper, distal portion  534  of each handle member  530  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  180 . A lower, distal portion  536  of each handle member  530  is rotatably connected to one end of a handle link  540 . An opposite end of the handle link  540  is fixedly secured to the cord  220 . As a result, the handle members  530  are constrained to pivot back and forth as the juncture points on the cord  220  move through a generally elliptical path of motion. 
     Still another “linked” embodiment of the present invention is designated as  600  in FIG.  8 . The exercise apparatus  600  provides leg exercise motion identical to that of the first apparatus  100 . Among other things, the front ends of the rails  200  are likewise pivotally mounted to the frame  520  by means of the shaft  133  at a first elevation above the floor surface  99 . Each handle member  630  has an intermediate portion  635  which is pivotally connected to a trunnion  525  disposed on the frame  520  at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface  99 . An upper, distal portion  634  of each handle member  630  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  180 . A lower, distal portion  636  of each handle member  630  extends into a ring  640  which, in turn, is fixedly secured to the cord  620 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that the cord  620  may be a single cord or three separate pieces of cord extending from one skate  180  to the other. In any event, the handle members  630  are constrained to pivot back and forth as the rings  640  move through a generally elliptical path of motion (sliding up and down along the lower portion  636  of the handle member  630 ). 
     Another embodiment of the present invention is designated as  700  in FIG.  9 . The exercise apparatus  700  facilitates leg exercise motion similar to that of the first apparatus  100 , except that the orientations of the foot platforms  788  change relative to the rails  800  during an exercise cycle. On this embodiment  700 , the front ends of the rails  800  are pivotally mounted to the frame  720  by pivot member  733 , disposed at a first elevation above the floor surface  99 . The rear ends of the rails  800  are supported by respective rollers  170  rotatably mounted on respective cranks  160 . Each foot support  780  includes a foot platform  788  having a central portion which moves through the elliptical path designated as P 7 . Each foot support  780  is rollably mounted on a respective rail  800  by means of a roller  782 . This arrangement is deemed desirable to the extent that it requires fewer rollers than the preceding embodiments and fewer linkage components and/or joints to link movement of the foot supports  780  to a desirable handlebar motion. 
     As on the preceding embodiments, on each side of the apparatus  700 , a cable  190  has a first end connected to the foot support  780  (at roller  782 ), a second end connected to the rail  800 , and an intermediate portion routed about a pulley  205  on the rail  800  and about a pulley on the crank  160  (concentric with the roller  170 ). Also, a common cable  220  has a first end connected to the left foot support  780  (at roller  782 ), a second end connected to the right foot support  780  (at tensioning spring  228 ), and an intermediate portion routed about left and right pulleys  802  on respective rails  800 . Each pulley  802  is rotatably mounted on a trunnion  801  and arranged tangentially relative to the pivot member  733 , which is tubular to admit passage of the cable  220  through the center thereof. Although this arrangement is not necessary to practice the present invention, it is deemed desirable to the extent that it keeps respective segments of the cable  220  in alignment with both rails  800  at all times. 
     The foot supports  780  preferably pivot relative to the cables  190  and  220 . For example, ring shaped members may be secured between respective ends of the cables  190  and  220  (including spring  228 ), and rotatably mounted on the shafts which support respective rollers  782 . In any event, the crank pulleys define a crank diameter therebetween, and the cables  190  and  220  constrain the foot supports  780  to move horizontally through a range of motion which is twice the crank pulley diameter. A user interface  707  may be mounted on the front stanchion  725  to provide information regarding exercise activity and/or assist the user in adjusting one or more exercise parameters. 
     Each handlebar or rocker link  730  has an intermediate portion which is pivotally connected to the frame  720  by pivot pin(s)  735 , disposed at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface  99 . An upper, distal portion  734  of each handlebar  730  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the foot supports  780 . A lower, distal portion of each handlebar  730  is pivotally connected to a forward end of a respective foot support  780 , thereby linking horizontal movement of the foot support  780  to back and forth pivoting of the handlebar  730 . 
     With any of the foregoing embodiments, the orientation of the path traveled by the force receiving members  180  may be adjusted by raising or lowering the shaft  133  relative to the floor surface  99 . One such mechanism for doing so is the detent pin arrangement shown and described with reference to the first embodiment  100 . Another suitable mechanism is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 10 a , wherein a frame  120 ′ includes a post  131 ′ movable along an upwardly extending stanchion  130 ′, and a rail  200 ′ is rotatably mounted to the post  131 ′ by means of a shaft  133 ′. A knob  102  is rigidly secured to a lead screw which extends through the post  131 ′ and threads into the stanchion  130 ′. The knob  102  and the post  131 ′ are interconnected in such a manner that the knob  102  rotates relative to the post  131 ′, but they travel up and down together relative to the stanchion  130 ′ (as indicated by the arrows). 
     Yet another suitable adjustment mechanism is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 10 b , wherein again, a frame  120 ′ includes a post  131 ′ movable along an upwardly extending stanchion  130 ′, and a rail  200 ′ is rotatably mounted to the post  131 ′ by means of a shaft  133 ′. An actuator  104 , such as a motor or a hydraulic drive, is rigidly secured to the post  131 ′ and connected to a shaft which extends through the post  131 ′ and into the stanchion  130 ′. The actuator  104  selectively moves the shaft relative to the post  131 ′, causing the actuator  104  and the post  131 ′ to travel up and down together relative to the stanchion  130 ′ (as indicated by the arrows). The actuator  104  may operate in response to signals from a person and/or a computer controller. 
     Another exercise apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present invention is designated as  1100  in FIGS. 11-15. The apparatus  1100  generally includes a frame  1120  and a linkage assembly  1150  movably mounted on the frame  1120 . Generally speaking, the linkage assembly  1150  moves relative to the frame  1120  in a manner that links rotation of a flywheel  1160  to generally elliptical motion of a force receiving member  1180 . The term “elliptical motion” is intended in a broad sense to describe a closed path of motion having a relatively longer first axis and a relatively shorter second axis (which extends perpendicular to the first axis). 
     The frame  1120  includes a base  1122 , a forward stanchion or upright  1130 , and a rearward stanchion or upright  1140 . The base  1122  may be described as generally I-shaped and is designed to rest upon a generally horizontal floor surface  99  (see FIGS.  12  and  14 - 15 ). The apparatus  1100  is generally symmetrical about a vertical plane extending lengthwise through the base  1122  (perpendicular to the transverse ends thereof), the only exception being the relative orientation of certain parts of the linkage assembly  1150  on opposite sides of the plane of symmetry. In the embodiment  1100 , the “right-hand” components are one hundred and eighty degrees out of phase relative to the “left-hand” components. However, like reference numerals are used to designate both the “right-hand” and “left-hand” parts on the apparatus  1100 , and when reference is made to one or more parts on only one side of the apparatus, it is to be understood that corresponding part(s) are disposed on the opposite side of the apparatus  1100 . Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the portions of the frame  1120  which are intersected by the plane of symmetry exist individually and thus, do not have any “opposite side” counterparts. Furthermore, to the extent that reference is made to forward or rearward portions of the apparatus  1100 , it is to be understood that a person could exercise on the apparatus  1100  while facing in either direction relative to the linkage assembly  1150 . 
     The forward stanchion  1130  extends perpendicularly upward from the base  1122  and supports a telescoping tube  1131 . A plurality of holes  1138  are formed in the stanchion  1130 , and at least one hole is formed in the upper end of the tube  1131  to selectively align with any one of the holes  1138 . A pin  1128 , having a ball detent, may be inserted through an aligned set of holes to secure the tube  1131  in a raised position relative to the stanchion  1130 . 
     The rearward stanchion  1140  extends perpendicularly upward from the base  1122  and supports a bearing assembly. An axle  1164  is inserted through a laterally extending hole in the bearing assembly to support a pair of flywheels  1160  in a manner known in the art. For example, the axle  1164  may be inserted through the hole, and then a flywheel  1160  may be keyed to each of the protruding ends of the axle  1164 , on opposite sides of the stanchion  1140 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that the flywheels  1160  could be replaced by some other rotating member(s) which may or may not, in turn, be connected to one or more flywheels. These rotating members  1160  rotate about a crank axis which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the axle  1164 . 
     A radially displaced shaft or support  1166  is rigidly secured to each flywheel  1160  by means known in the art. For example, the shaft  1166  may be inserted into a hole in the flywheel  1160  and welded in place. The shaft  1166  extends axially away from the flywheel  1160  at a point radially displaced from the crank axis, and thus, the shaft  1166  rotates at a fixed radius about the crank axis. In other words, the shaft  1166  and the flywheel  1160  cooperate to define a crank having a crank radius. 
     A roller  1170  is rotatably mounted on each shaft  1166 . The roller  1170  on the right side of the apparatus  1100  rotates about a roller axis which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the right shaft  1166 , and the roller  1170  on the left side of the apparatus  1100  rotates about a roller axis which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the left shaft  1166 . As shown in FIG. 14, the roller  1170  provides a first interface  1171  having a first effective diameter, and a second interface  1172  having a second, relatively smaller effective diameter. In this embodiment  100 , gear teeth  1177  are disposed about the roller  1170  at the first interface  1171 , and gear teeth  1178  are disposed about the roller  1170  at the second interface  1172 . 
     Each force receiving member  1180  has a rearward portion or arm  1181  which overlies the first interface  1171 . In this embodiment  100 , a rack of gear teeth  1187  is disposed along the rearward portion  1181  and engages the gear teeth  1177  on the roller interface or pinion  1171 . In view of this arrangement, the roller  1170  may be said to provide a means for interconnecting the flywheel  1160  and the force receiving member  1180 . Each force receiving member  1180  has a forward portion  1182  which is rollably mounted on a respective rail or track  1200  in a manner known in the art. Each force receiving member  1180  provides an upwardly facing support surface  1188  sized and configured to support a person&#39;s foot. Thus, each force receiving member  1180  may be described as a foot skate. 
     Each rail  1200  has a forward end  1203 , a rearward end  1206 , and an intermediate portion  1208 . The forward end  1203  of each rail  1200  is movably connected to the frame  1120 , forward of the flywheels  1160 . In particular, each forward end  1203  is rotatably connected to the forward stanchion  1130  by means known in the art. For example, a shaft  1133  may be inserted into a hole extending laterally through the tube  1131  and into holes extending laterally through the forward ends  1203  of the rails  1200 . The shaft  1133  may be keyed in place relative to the stanchion  1130 , and nuts may be secured to opposite ends of the shaft  1133  to retain the forward ends  1203  on the shaft  1133 . As a result of this arrangement, the rail  1200  may be said to provide a discrete means for movably interconnecting the force receiving member  1180  and the frame  1120 . 
     The rearward end  1206  of the rail  1200  underlies the second interface  1172  on the roller  1170 . A rack of gear teeth  1207  is disposed along the rearward portion  1206  and engages the gear teeth  1178  on the roller interface or pinion  1172 . Accordingly, the roller  1170  may be described as a means for movably interconnecting the flywheel  1160  and the rail  1200 , and the rail  1200  may be described as a discrete means for movably interconnecting the flywheel  1160  and the force receiving member  1180 . 
     The intermediate portion  1208  of the rail  1200  may be defined as that portion of the rail  1200  along which the skate  1180  may travel and/or as that portion of the rail  1200  between the rearward end  1206  (which rolls over the roller  1170 ) and the forward end  1203  (which is rotatably mounted to the frame  1120 ). The intermediate portion  1208  may be generally described as having an I-shaped profile and/or a pair of C-shaped channels which open away from one another. Each channel  1209  functions as a guide for one or more rollers rotatably mounted on each side of the foot skate  1180 . The skate  1180  cooperates with the roller  1170  to support the rear end  1206  of the rail  1200  above the floor surface  99 . 
     Operation of the apparatus  1100  may be described with reference to FIG. 12, wherein arrows H, R, V, and C indicate how respective parts of the linkage assembly  1150  move relative to the frame  1120  and one another. The rack  1187  and pinion  1177  link movement of the force receiving member  1180  in the direction H to rotation of the roller  1170  in the direction R. The rail  1200  cannot move in the direction H because of its connection to the forward stanchion  1130 . Thus, the force receiving member  1180  moves in the direction H relative to both the frame  1120  and the rail  1200 . The rack  1207  and pinion  1178  link rotation of the roller  1170  in the direction R to forward movement of the roller  1170  along the rail  1200 . In turn, the shaft  1166  links forward movement of the roller  1170  along the rail  1200  to rotation of the crank  1160  in the direction C. Since the rear portions of the force receiving member  1180  and the rail  1200  are supported by the roller  1170 , rotation of the crank  1160  in the direction C is linked to movement of the force receiving member  1180  and the rail  1200  in the direction V. 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize that the extent or range of motion of the force receiving member  1180  in the direction V cannot exceed twice the radial distance between the crank axis and the roller axis. However, the extent or range of motion of the force receiving member  1180  in the direction H is a function of the diameter or gear ratio defined by the interfaces  1171  and  1172  and may exceed twice the radial distance between the crank axis and the roller axis. In the embodiment  1100 , the range of motion in the direction H is approximately four times the noted radial distance. 
     Handle members  1230  are rotatably mounted to the frame  1120  in a manner known in the art to provide the option of exercising the upper body contemporaneously with exercise of the lower body. In particular, a lower end of each of the handle members  1230  is rotatably mounted on the shaft  1133  between the tube  1131  and a respective rail  1200 . In this embodiment  1100 , the handle members  1230  are independently movable relative to one another and the post  1131 . Resistance to handle pivoting may be provided in the form of friction discs or by other means known in the art. Each handle member  1230  also includes an upper, distal portion  1234  which is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  1180 . 
     An alternative to the embodiment  1100  is designated as  1300  and shown diagrammatically in FIG.  16 . The embodiment  1300  is similar in many respects to the embodiment  1100  but has a handle member  1430  which is linked to a force receiving member  1380 . Generally speaking, the handle member  1430  and the force receiving member  1380  are components of a linkage assembly  1350  which is movably connected to a frame  1320 . The frame  1320  includes a base  1322 , which rests upon a floor surface  99 , a forward stanchion  1330 , which extends upward from the front end of the base  1322 , and a rearward stanchion  1340 , which extends upward from the rear end of the base  1322 . 
     A flywheel  1360  is rotatably mounted on the rearward stanchion  1340  and rotatable about a crank axis. A roller  1370  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1360  at a location radially displaced from the crank axis and cooperates with the flywheel  1360  to define a crank. The roller  1370  rotates about a roller axis relative to the flywheel  1360  and rotates with the flywheel  1360  about the crank axis. A first set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively greater diameter about the roller  1370 , engages a rack  1387  of gear teeth on the force receiving member  1380 . A second set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively smaller diameter about the roller  1370 , engages a rack  1407  of gear teeth on a support member  1400 . An opposite end of the support member  1400  is pivotally connected to a first trunnion  1334  on the forward stanchion  1330 . The force receiving member  1380  is movably mounted on the support member  1400  intermediate the rack  1407  and the trunnion  1334 . 
     A link  1420  is rotatably interconnected between the force receiving member  1380  and a lower end  1432  of a handle member  1430 . An opposite, upper end  1434  of the handle member  1430  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  1380 . An intermediate portion  1436  of the handle member  1430  is pivotally mounted to a second, relatively higher trunnion  1336  on the forward stanchion  1330 . The link  1420  links generally elliptical movement of the force receiving member to pivoting of the handle member  1430 . 
     Additional possible modifications involving the present invention may described with reference to the embodiment designated as  1500  in FIG.  17 . Generally speaking, the exercise apparatus  1500  includes a frame  1320  having a base  1522 , which rests upon a floor surface  99 , a forward stanchion  1530 , which extends upward from the front end of the base  1522 , and a rearward stanchion  1540 , which extends upward from the rear end of the base  1522 . 
     A flywheel  1560  is rotatably mounted on the rearward stanchion  1540  and rotatable about a crank axis. A roller  1570  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1560  at a location radially displaced from the crank axis and cooperates with the flywheel  1560  to define a crank. The roller  1570  rotates about a roller axis relative to the flywheel  1560  and rotates with the flywheel  1560  about the crank axis. Rather than gear teeth, the roller  1570  simply has a first bearing surface or interface, disposed at a relatively greater diameter about the roller  1570 , which engages a flat bearing surface  1587  on the force receiving member  1580 , and a second bearing surface or interface, disposed at a relatively smaller diameter about the roller  1570 , which engages a flat bearing surface  1617  on a support member  1600 . 
     A rearward end of the support member  1610  is rotatably connected to a rearward end of a rail  1600 . A helical coil spring  1619  is disposed between the base  1522  and an opposite, forward end of the support member  1610 . The spring  1619  biases the bearing surface  1617  upward against the roller  1570 . An opposite, forward end of the rail  1600  is rotatably connected to the forward stanchion  1530 . The force receiving member  1580  is movably mounted on the rail  1600  intermediate the forward end and the rearward end. The rearward end of the rail  1600  is supported by the force receiving member  1580  which, in turn, is supported by the roller  1570 . 
     A handle member  1630  has a lower end  1632  which is rigidly secured to the forward end of the rail  1600 . An opposite, upper end  1634  of the handle member  1630  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  1580 . As a result of this arrangement, the handle member  1630  pivots together with the rail  1600  relative to the frame  1520 . 
     Additional embodiments of the present invention are shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 18-20. The exercise apparatus designated as  1700  in FIG. 18 includes a frame  1720  having a base  1722 , a forward stanchion  1730 , a rearward stanchion  1740 , and an intermediate stanchion  1710 . A flywheel  1760  is rotatably mounted on the rearward stanchion  1740 , and a roller  1770  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1760  at a radially displaced location. A first set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively greater diameter about the roller  1770 , engages a rack of gear teeth on a rearward portion of a force receiving member  1780 . A second set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively smaller diameter about the roller  1770 , engages a rack of gear teeth on a support member  1810 . A forward end of the support member  1810  is rotatably connected to the intermediate stanchion  1710 . A helical coil spring  1819  is disposed between the base  1722  and the support member  1710  to bias the bearing surface on the latter upward against the roller  1770 . 
     A forward end of the force receiving member  1780  is rotatably connected to a lower end of a handle member  1830 . An opposite, upper end of the handle member  1830  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  1780 . An intermediate portion of the handle member  1830  is rotatably connected to a trunnion  1735  which, in turn, is slidably mounted on the forward stanchion  1730 . A pin may be selectively inserted through aligned holes in the trunnion  1735  and the stanchion  1730  to secure the trunnion  1735  in any of several positions above the floor surface. As a result of this arrangement, pivoting of the handle member  1830  relative to the trunnion  1735  is linked to generally elliptical movement of the force receiving member  1780  relative to the frame  1720 , which is linked to rotation of the flywheel  1760  relative to the frame  1720 , which is linked to pivoting of the support member  1810  relative to the frame  1720 . 
     As suggested by the many like reference numerals, the exercise apparatus designated as  1700 ′ in FIG. 19 is similar in many respects to the apparatus designated as  1700  in FIG.  18 . However, because the frame  1720 ′ does not include an intermediate stanchion, the support member  1810 ′ is reversed, and the rearward end thereof is rotatably mounted to the rearward stanchion  1740 ′. 
     The exercise apparatus designated as  1900  in FIG. 20 includes a frame  1920  having a base  1922 , a forward stanchion  1930 , a rearward stanchion  1940 , and an intermediate stanchion  1910 . A flywheel  1960  is rotatably mounted on the rearward stanchion  1940 , and a roller  1970  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1960 . A first set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively greater diameter about the roller  1970 , engages a rack of gear teeth on a rearward portion of a force receiving member  1980 . A second set of gear teeth, disposed at a relatively smaller diameter about the roller  1970 , engages a rack of gear teeth on a support member  2010 . A rearward end of the support member  2010  is rotatably connected to the rearward stanchion  1940 . A helical coil spring  2019  is disposed between the base  1922  and the support member  2010  to bias the latter upward against the roller  1970 . 
     A roller  1989  is rotatably mounted on a forward end of the force receiving member  1980 . The roller  1989  rolls or bears against a ramp  1917  having a first end rotatably connected to the intermediate stanchion  1910 , and a second, opposite end connected to a trunnion  1937 . A slot  1919  is provided in the ramp  1917  to accommodate angular adjustment of the ramp  1917  relative to the trunnion  1937  and the floor surface  99 . In particular, the trunnion  1937  is slidably mounted on the forward stanchion  1930 , and a pin may be selectively inserted through aligned holes in the trunnion  1937  and the stanchion  1930  to secured the stanchion  1937  in any of several positions above the floor surface. As the trunnion  1937  slides downward, the fastener interconnecting the trunnion  1937  and the ramp  1917  moves within the slot  1919 . 
     A lower portion of a handle member  2030  is movably connected to the forward end of the force receiving member  1980 , adjacent the roller  1989 . In particular, a common shaft extends through the force receiving member  1980 , the roller  1989 , and a slot  2039  provided in the lower portion of the handle member  2030 . An opposite, upper end of the handle member  2030  is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member  1980 . An intermediate portion of the handle member  2030  is rotatably connected to a trunnion  1935  which, in turn, is slidably mounted on the forward stanchion  1930  above the trunnion  1937 . A pin may be selectively inserted through aligned holes in the trunnion  1935  and the stanchion  1930  to secure the trunnion  1935  in any of several positions above the floor surface. The slot  2039  in the handle member  2030  accommodates height adjustments and allows the handle member  2030  to pivot about its connection with the trunnion  2035  while the roller  1989  moves through a linear path of motion. As a result of this arrangement, the height of the handle member  2030  can be adjusted without affecting the path of the foot support  1980 , and/or the path of the foot support  1980  can be adjusted without affecting the height of the handle member  2030 , even though the two force receiving members are linked to one another. 
     Some additional modifications to the present invention are shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 21-26. Each of the embodiments  2100 - 2600  is shown with a linkage assembly in the absence of a frame. In each case, a flywheel  2160  is rotatably mounted on the frame, and a roller  2170  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  2160  at a radially displaced location. A first roller interface engages a rear portion of a force receiving member  2180 , and a second roller interface engages a support member  2190 . The support member  2190  is rotatably connected to the frame and biased toward the roller  2170  by spring  2199 . A roller  2189  is rotatably mounted on a forward end of the force receiving member  2180 . 
     In the embodiment  2100  of FIG. 21, the roller  2189  rolls or bears against a flat or linear bearing surface on a ramp  2150 . A relatively lower and rearward end of the ramp  2150  is rotatably connected to the frame, and a relatively higher and forward end of the ramp  2150  is supported by a flange or ledge  2140 . A threaded hole is formed through the flange  2140  to accommodate a lead screw  2134  having a lower end rotatably connected relative to the frame. A knob  2130  on the lead screw  2134  is rotated to move the flange  2140  up or down along the lead screw  2134  and relative to the frame and thereby adjust the inclination of the ramp  2150  relative to the frame and the floor surface. 
     In the embodiment  2200  of FIG. 22, the roller  2189  rolls or bears against an arcuate or upwardly concave bearing surface on a ramp  2250 . A relatively lower and rearward end of the ramp  2250  is rotatably connected to the frame, and a relatively higher and forward end of the ramp  2250  is supported by a flange or ledge  2140 . The same lead screw arrangement is provided to adjust the inclination of the ramp  2250  relative to the frame and the floor surface. 
     In the embodiment  2300  of FIG. 23, the roller  2189  rolls or bears against an arcuate or upwardly convex bearing surface on a ramp  2350 . A relatively lower and rearward end of the ramp  2350  is rotatably connected to the frame, and a relatively higher and forward end of the ramp  2350  is supported by a flange or ledge  2140 . The same lead screw arrangement is provided to adjust the inclination of the ramp  2350  relative to the frame and the floor surface. 
     In the embodiment  2400  of FIG. 24, the roller  2189  rolls or bears against the same ramp  2150  as that shown and described with reference to FIG.  21  and the embodiment  2100 . However, a different arrangement is provided to adjust the inclination of the ramp  2150  relative to the frame and the floor surface. In particular, the flange  2140  is connected to a shaft  2434  on a power driven adjustment device  2430 , which could be a motor, for example. The device  2430  operates to move the flange  2140  up and down relative to the frame in response to a signal from either a computer controller or a user. 
     The embodiment  2500  of FIG. 25 is provided with the same ramp  2250  as that shown and described with reference to FIG.  22  and embodiment  2200 , and with the same power driven adjustment arrangement as that shown and described with reference to FIG.  24  and the embodiment  2400 . 
     The embodiment  2600  of FIG. 26 is provided with the same ramp  2350  as that shown and described with reference to FIG.  23  and embodiment  2300 , and with the same power driven adjustment arrangement as that shown and described with reference to FIG.  24  and the embodiment  2400 . 
     Still more possible variations of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 27-31. In FIG. 27, an alternative roller  2770  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1160  of the embodiment  1100  shown in and described with reference to FIGS. 11-15. Each of the interfaces  2771  and  2772  may be described as having gear teeth disposed about an elliptical surface, wherein the major axes of the two interfaces are co-linear. 
     In FIG. 28, an alternative roller  2870  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1160  and provides interfaces  2871  and  2872  which have gear teeth disposed about elliptical surfaces. The major axes of the two interfaces  2871  and  2872  extend perpendicular to one another. Obviously, any two interfaces which are elliptical (or otherwise not entirely symmetrical) may be oriented so that the major axes occupy any angle relative to one another. 
     In FIG. 29, an alternative roller  2970  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1160  of the embodiment  1100  shown in and described with reference to FIGS. 11-15. The relatively smaller diameter interface  2971  may be described as having a smooth asymmetrical surface which provides a cam effect, and the relatively larger diameter interface  2972  may be described as having gear teeth disposed about an elliptical surface. 
     In FIG. 30, an alternative roller  3070  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1160  of the embodiment  1100  shown in and described with reference to FIGS. 11-15. The relatively smaller diameter interface  3071  may be described as having gear teeth disposed about a cylindrical surface, and the relatively larger diameter interface  3072  may be described as having a smooth asymmetrical surface which provides a cam effect. 
     In FIG. 31, an alternative roller  3170  is rotatably mounted on the flywheel  1160  of the embodiment  1100  shown in and described with reference to FIGS. 11-15. The two interfaces  3171  and  3172  may be described as having identical cylindrical surfaces. The embodiments of FIGS. 27-31 illustrate only a few of the many possible variations. Depending on the dimension and arrangement of parts, for example, the roller may not rotate through an entire cycle during exercise, in which case the interface surfaces need not extend all the way around the roller. 
     Still more possible variations of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 32-33. In FIG. 32, an alternative support member  3210  is shown as a possible substitute for the “underlying” rack and/or support member provided on any of the foregoing embodiments shown in FIGS. 11-26. The support member  3210  may be described as having a rack of gear teeth disposed along an upwardly convex surface. 
     In FIG. 33, an alternative support member  3310  is shown as a possible substitute for the “overlying” rack and/or force receiving member provided on any of the foregoing embodiments shown in FIGS. 11-26. The support member  3310  may be described as having a rack of gear teeth disposed along an downwardly convex surface. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments and applications, those skilled in the art will recognize additional embodiments, modifications, and/or applications which fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, in addition to the variations discussed above, one skilled in the art might be inclined to further provide any of various known inertia altering devices, including, for example, a motor, a “stepped up” flywheel, or an adjustable brake of some sort. Additionally, any or all of the components could be modified so that an end of a first component nested between opposing prongs on the end of a second component. Recognizing that, for reasons of practicality, the foregoing description and figures set forth only some of the numerous possible modifications and variations, the scope of the present invention is to be limited only to the extent of the claims which follow.