Source: http://www.google.com/patents/US20040097333?ie=ISO-8859-1
Timestamp: 2015-02-28 23:38:30
Document Index: 114983628

Matched Legal Cases: ['art. 3', 'art. 8', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 4', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 4', 'art 4', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 19', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 4', 'arts 1', 'art 4', 'arts 1', 'art 19', 'arts 1', 'arts 1', 'art 19', 'art 4', 'art 19', 'arts 1', 'arts 1', 'art 4', 'arts 1', 'art 19', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 19', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'arts 1', 'arts 1', 'art 1', 'art 4', 'art 1', 'art 19', 'art 1', 'arts 1', 'art 19', 'art 19', 'art 19', 'art 19', 'art 19']

Patent US20040097333 - Fitness apparatus - Google PatentsSearch Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »Sign inAdvanced Patent SearchPatentsA fitness apparatus comprising a horizontal floor part (4) provided with one or more bearers (6), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, at least one vertical end part (1) provided with one or more bearers (3), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, and a horizontal...http://www.google.com/patents/US20040097333?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US20040097333 - Fitness apparatusAdvanced Patent SearchPublication numberUS20040097333 A1Publication typeApplicationApplication numberUS 10/411,119Publication dateMay 20, 2004Filing dateApr 11, 2003Priority dateApr 15, 2002Also published asDE10317332A1Publication number10411119, 411119, US 2004/0097333 A1, US 2004/097333 A1, US 20040097333 A1, US 20040097333A1, US 2004097333 A1, US 2004097333A1, US-A1-20040097333, US-A1-2004097333, US2004/0097333A1, US2004/097333A1, US20040097333 A1, US20040097333A1, US2004097333 A1, US2004097333A1InventorsMartti NappariOriginal AssigneeSportland OyExport CitationBiBTeX, EndNote, RefManReferenced by (4), Classifications (12), Legal Events (1) External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, EspacenetFitness apparatus
US 20040097333 A1Abstract
A fitness apparatus comprising a horizontal floor part (4) provided with one or more bearers (6), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, at least one vertical end part (1) provided with one or more bearers (3), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, and a horizontal ceiling part (19) parallel to the floor part (4), placed above the floor part (4) and provided with one or more bearers (21), from which handles and other means used in the training can be suspended at varying distances. The floor part (4), the end part (1) and the ceiling part (19) are arranged with respect to each other so that a person in a substantially upright position fits, in the height direction of the fitness apparatus, inside the space defined by the floor part (4), the end part (1) and the ceiling part (19) to perform training exercises. Images(7) Claims(12)
1. A fitness apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a horizontal floor part (4) provided with one or more bearers (6), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, at least one vertical end part (1) provided with one or more bearers (3), by which hands or feet can be supported during training, and a horizontal ceiling part (19) parallel to the floor part (4), placed above the floor part (4) and provided with one or more bearers (21), from which handles and other means used in the training can be suspended at varying distances, and which floor part (4), end part (1) and ceiling part (19) are arranged with respect to each other so that a person in a substantially upright position fits, in the height direction of the fitness apparatus, inside the space defined by the floor part (4), the end part (1) and the ceiling part (19) to perform training exercises. 2. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein either the bearer (21 ) of the ceiling part (19) or the bearer (6) of the floor part (4) or both are movable along this part to support hands or feet at varying points in the longitudinal direction of the part. 3. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the bearer (21) of the ceiling part (19) is arranged to extend in the width direction of the fitness apparatus outside the space defined by the floor part (4), end part (1) and the ceiling part (19) to suspend handles, rings or other means to be used in the training outside said space in the width direction of the fitness apparatus. 4. A fitness apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein it comprises two vertical end parts (1) which are placed at a distance from each other and between which the ceiling part (19) and the floor part (4) are attached, whereby they form a rigid frame-like structure, which can be placed on the floor of a room. 5. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein substantially horizontal parallel bars (14), the height, inclination and distance of which are adjustable, are attached between the end parts (1). 6. A fitness apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein its ceiling part (19) is separate and attachable to the ceiling of the room, the end part (1) is separate and attachable to the wall of the room, and the floor part (4) is attached to the end part (1) with a joint or attachable to the wall such that it is foldable against the wall for storage and lowerable to the floor of the room for use. 7. A fitness apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein its ceiling part (19) is also provided with one or more bearers (21), by which hands or feet can be supported during training at varying points in the longitudinal direction of this part. 8. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the bearer (21) can be moved by a person standing on the ground. 9. A fitness apparatus provided with parallel bars, characterized in that it comprises two end parts (1) which are placed at a distance from each other and between which the parallel bars are attached, whereby the attachment of a parallel bar (14) is arranged to allow the adjustment of the height of the parallel bar (14), the adjustment of the distance between the parallel bars (14), whereby the distance is either increasing, decreasing or equally long, and the adjustment of the ends of the parallel bars (14) at different heights, whereby the parallel bar (14) can also be brought to an inclined position. 10. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein it also comprises a horizontal floor part (4) provided with one or more bearers (6), by which hands or feet can be supported at varying points in the longitudinal direction of this part during training and which is substantially parallel to the parallel bars (14), and at least one vertical end part (1) is provided with one or more bearers (3), by which hands or feet can be supported during training. 11. A fitness apparatus as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein a space between the parallel bars can be accessed by a wheelchair and a person using the fitness apparatus via the end part (1). 12. A fitness apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the attachment of the parallel bar (14) is arranged to allow the adjustment of the height of the parallel bar (14), the adjustment of the distance between the parallel bars (14), whereby the distance is either increasing, decreasing or equally long, and the adjustment of the ends of the parallel bars (14) at different heights, whereby the parallel bar (14) can also be brought to an inclined position.
[0001] The present invention relates to a fitness apparatus according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a fitness apparatus provided with parallel bars according to the preamble of claim 9. [0002] The prior art includes a wide variety of fitness equipment, which utilizes different weights or the weight of a human body. They are used for carrying out different gymnastic exercises, the purpose of which is to strengthen specific muscular groups or to train the whole body. The training can be carried out by following different programmes, which aim at systematically improving desired things. [0003] The effectiveness of training exercises can be measured, for instance, by detecting how many different muscles are strained simultaneously. The effectiveness is also indicated in how much time is used. Great effectiveness means that many different muscles can be trained in a short time and by carrying out only few exercises. When comprehensive effectiveness and functionality are concerned, it is not preferable to favor exercises which only focus on a limited muscle group. [0004] In training, important factors are an upward trend of training and consideration of a personal condition, which is why fitness equipment should be controllable and adjustable. Usually there are various removable weights, which can be taken off or added, if necessary, or various springs and tackles, which are adjusted and fastened in different ways to increase or reduce the resisting force. [0005] Training which is only based on mechanical weights is insufficient, because, for example, the coordination of the body does not develop properly. The training is limited to specific muscular groups at a time and muscles which stabilize the body movements in a natural way are entirely neglected. [0006] It is considerably slower to use separate weights or adjust resisting forces than to utilize the body's own weight, since by utilizing the weight of the body, the resistance can be adjusted during training by changing the body position, even during repetitions. By using a right type of fitness equipment a wide variety of different exercises can be achieved, which would not be possible with machines planned for carrying out only one exercise. With current equipment, however, the body weight is not sufficiently utilized in training aiming at a higher level, nor is it possible for people of all ages, levels or builds to carry out a varied range of gymnastic exercises. [0007] U.S. Pat. No. 2,682,402 discloses fitness equipment based on utilizing a resisting force, which is characterized in that it is foldable into a relatively small space, which makes it possible to carry it as well. Training with this fitness equipment is mainly based on utilizing a sledge on the bottom of the fitness equipment so that according to the exercise, a person is in different positions on the sledge and tries to move the sledge against the spring force resisting the sledge's movement. The frame of the fitness equipment is also provided with loops, and by passing the feet to the loops and by grabbing a support bar at the opposite end of the fitness equipment with hands it is also possible to carry out spine stretching exercises. With the fitness equipment described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,682,402, only a very limited number of exercises can be carried out in a very limited space and it is not possible to utilize the body's own weight when exercises are performed and thus the equipment does not comprehensively support the development of the body's coordination and of the muscles stabilizing the body's movement in a natural way. [0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a very versatile apparatus for fitness and athletics training, which can be adjusted easily and in a variety of ways. Its principle is, particularly, that a body's own weight is utilized, conditions for an upward trend of training are provided and that it is simple to use. A particular advantage is the training accuracy, in spite of the fact that the body's own weight is used. By using the same adjustments and attachment points the previously performed exercises can be repeated accurately. [0009] The fitness apparatus of the invention is characterized in what is disclosed in the characterizing part of the attached claim 1. Further, the fitness apparatus provided with parallel bars according to the invention is characterized in what is disclosed in the characterizing part of the attached claim 9. [0010] Other preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims. [0011] By using the apparatus of the invention, a trainee can develop in a more varied manner and more quickly than by using known training machines. As a result, awareness of one's own body improves and paths of movement and positions are under control. The fitness apparatus of the invention enables that trainees of varied levels, independent of their condition, can carry out progressive exercises by using their body's own weight according to the specifically defined pushing and pulling angles. [0012] By using the training apparatus, also the exercises associated with an individual joint are different in nature, an example of which is a pectoral muscle exercise, in which arms are brought from the side to the front. In the apparatus of the invention, the exercise is carried out so that the body is in a horizontal position, the face is towards the floor, the feet are supported by a cross member and the hands hold the handle or rings which are suspended from the apparatus by means of cables. The suspension point can be adjusted, and thus by taking the cables farther from each other, the strenuousness of the exercise can be increased, because it is more difficult to bring the hands to the front of the body and under it. Due to the apparatus of the invention, the exercise strains all muscles of the upper and central body. In addition to the pectoral muscle, also the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder joint are working. Thus, training is more versatile than by using, for instance, tackles or dumbbells, whereby the muscles of the central body are not strained sufficiently or at all. [0013] The invention provides high efficiency and advantage, because in addition to the muscle to be trained, as many muscles as possible participate in performing the exercise. This combines, for instance, the dynamic training of a muscle and the static work or stabilizing movement of other muscles. One example is a push-up by using handles or training of the arm extensor muscle, which, in the apparatus of the invention, also strains the stabilizing muscles of the central body and the upper back. With the invention, all biceps and extensor exercises, for instance, can be performed comprehensively, achieving high efficiency. [0014] By using the fitness apparatus, one can concentrate on exercises which strain as many different muscles as possible in different ways and simultaneously. The fitness apparatus advances strength, endurance, speed, suppleness, balance and coordination. [0015] A preferred embodiment of the apparatus employs parallel bars, which, due to various adjustments, can also be utilized in rehabilitation. By adjusting the inclination of the parallel bars and their distance from each other, it is possible to rise from the sitting position to the upright position and perform walking exercises. By using the parallel bars, a wide variety of press-up and pulling exercises and central body exercises and thigh-strengthening exercises can be carried out, whereby other structures of the apparatus are also utilized simultaneously. Compared with current known solutions, there are a lot more possibilities to adjust the width and inclination of the parallel bars. In the longitudinal direction of the fitness apparatus, one end of the parallel bars can be in contact with the floor, while the other end of the parallel bars can be located up to 2.5 meters in height. In the width direction of the fitness apparatus, the parallel bars can be very close to each other or over two meters apart from each other. In addition to dynamic exercises, static or eccentric exercises can be performed, as well as stretching and balancing exercises. [0016] In a first embodiment of the invention, the apparatus comprises, for instance, a framework to be mounted on a wall and forming the vertical end part of the apparatus, or a wall part provided with movable or fixed cross members, on which hands or feet can be supported. The purpose of the cross members or similar parts is to support hands or feet. As to the upward trend of training, it is essential that their location can be changed in the vertical direction. The framework also comprises a floor part acting as a foot support in various pushing and press-up exercises. The foot part can also be called a floor part, because it is positioned close to the floor. When a wall framework is concerned, the foot part is frame-like and hinged to the wall or, most suitably, to the wall framework so that it can be lowered to a horizontal position on the floor or raised against the wall for storage. Different parts are generally frame-like structures, which are made of a steel or metal profile or tube and fastened by welding and which form the frame structure of said parts. The material is typically finished with paint. The foot part is also provided with cross members, which are most suitably movable to improve the adjustability of training. In addition, the framework comprises a ceiling part, which is attached separately to the ceiling. [0017] Alternatively, the ceiling part is suspended between two end parts, whereby the two end parts, the foot part and the ceiling part form, when viewed from the side, a frame-like fitness and athletic apparatus. This apparatus is supported on the floor and is sufficiently rigid and strong, and thus it is not necessary to fix it to the wall or the ceiling. The apparatus is most suitably made so strong that the entire weight of a person can be supported by it or force effects caused by the exercises do not endanger the standing or durability of the apparatus. Durability is an important property, since the body weight and even additional weights are utilized in the training. The ceiling part also comprises different movable cross members, by which, for instance, height-adjustable cables provided with handles or hand rings are fastened and which allow the cables to be fastened at varying distances. Additional bearers provide support for hands or feet. [0018] In a second embodiment of the invention, the frame-like apparatus also comprises adjustable parallel bars fixed between two end parts, and a foot part provided with cross members, which are most suitably movable. The end parts are provided with movable or fixed cross members, on which hands or feet can be supported. In some cases it is advantageous that at least one end part is implemented in such a manner that a wheelchair access into the apparatus and between the parallel bars is allowed, whereby there are no fixed cross members nor support structures at one end part, at least not at its bottom part. In this case, the apparatus can be used in rehabilitation. By adding a ceiling part with movable cross members to the frame-like apparatus, a third embodiment is achieved, creating a variety of training possibilities. [0019] The foot part is also used in pushing and press-up exercises carried out by using rings or other handles. The invention differs from the prior art and from using one's own body weight, in that by means of the apparatus, it is possible to define the body angle, i.e. strenuousness, accurately and easily during the training. In this case, one is exactly aware in which position or at which angle the training has been carried out, and the next level of strenuousness can be achieved accurately and in a manner aiming at a higher level by moving the cross member of the foot support by one step or by changing the cable attachment point in the movable cross member so as to be wider or narrower or by moving them back or forth with a movable cross member. Another alternative is to adjust the length of cables by shortening or lengthening them. The solution is easy to use, since because of the suspension of rings, handles or other similar means from the movable cross member it is easy to change their places in the longitudinal and width direction of the fitness apparatus. [0020] Training exercises can be carried out at very small angles by proceeding systematically and gradually to heavier exercises with small or desired steps, by changing the location of attachment points or crossbars, for instance. The attachment points and the pushing and pulling angles used in the preceding exercise are precisely known, and the exercise can be performed in a manner aiming at a higher level. The attachment points can be selected step by step and they are most suitably provided with desired markings and marking elements, whereby it is easy to remember the points used, repeat the same exercise, have the same strenuousness and find the same point next time. Earlier, it was not possible to achieve the same accuracy and practicability in such a manner that all adjustable parts can be adjusted by standing on the floor. In the invention, each training exercise is associated with a specific position or attachment point of a part of the apparatus, such as the attachment point of the cable of a handle, the position of the parallel bars, the location or height of a cross member and a support, and thus the same exercise can be repeated and the upward trend of training is easily achieved. The angle of a training position is changed, for example, by selecting the cross member of the floor part and its location or the cross member of the end part and its location as a support. [0021] A particular feature of the invention is the use of short or, most suitably, long adjustable parallel bars. When the wall framework is used, the parallel bars extend horizontally from the wall part to a distance, thus forming protrusions. In case of a frame-like structure and a second or a third embodiment of the invention, the parallel bars extend from one vertical part to another and are attached to both vertical parts so that the height of each parallel bar and its distance from the other parallel bar is adjustable. There are usually two parallel bars, and the foot part and the vertical parts are located between them. Connected to the frame-like apparatus, the parallel bars can be used and fastened in many different ways. A particular feature is also the adjustment of the inclination of the parallel bars. A thigh muscle is trained by using a parallel bar and by simultaneously resting on the longitudinal structure of the floor part. Parallel bars or bearers attached to the end part are utilized in barbell training, whereby a bench which the person uses is placed on top of the foot part or inside it. [0022] Since the parallel bars are moved upward and downward as well as inward and outward together with the moving crossbar of the foot part or the crosspiece of the vertical part, it is possible to perform a variety of different press-up exercises. These exercises, too, can now be carried out in a manner aiming at a higher level and by using specifically defined strain resistance. The foot part provides support for feet when the training is lighter and the parallel bars are in a low position. By raising the parallel bars and moving the foot support closer, the body weight forms a greater resistance. The adjustment range of the parallel bars becomes bigger, as they can be moved both to the outside and to the inside of the wide end parts. A crossbar, by means of which different stomach, back and foot exercises can be performed, can also be attached between the parallel bars or to the ends thereof. [0023] The apparatus allows a wider selection of exercises and usages than individual fitness equipment. By utilizing adjustments and different means together, also training possibilities are better than by using separate fitness equipment, even if in series. Particularly, the use of parallel bars and bearers together or the use of bearers and handles together should be mentioned.
[0024] In the following, preferred embodiments of the invention are described in greater detail, with reference to the attached drawings, in which [0025]FIG. 1 shows a front view of a wall part and a foot part according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and attached to each other with a joint when the foot part is raised up, [0026]FIG. 2 shows a side view of the apparatus of the type in FIG. 1, when the foot part is lowered down, [0027]FIG. 3 shows a ceiling part from below, [0028]FIG. 4 shows a side view of a frame-like structure according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and provided with parallel bars, [0029]FIG. 5 schematically shows a solution for moving a bearer in the ceiling part in the longitudinal direction of the ceiling part, and [0030]FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 schematically show training exercises, which can be carried out by using the fitness apparatus.
[0031]FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention. It comprises a vertical part 1, which can also be called an end part, which in this case is a separate wall part 1 attachable to a wall. The wall part 1 comprises two vertical tube, beam or guide structures 2, between which one or more horizontal crossbars 3 are attached movably. A crossbar 3 acts as a transverse bearer and support, and it is used for supporting hands or feet on different points in the longitudinal direction of that part. Thus, the apparatus comprises a group of bearers or supports, which can be displaced according to training requirements. Supporting structures can also comprise various fastening loops or handles, to which a foot is set or which are grabbed with hands. The crossbar 3 either slides along the structures 2 or it can be detached and attached to a new place. Attachment points are provided, for instance, with holes or some other attachment element, by means of which the crossbar 3 can be attached firmly to its place. Most suitably, the structure 2 and the bar 3 are attached to each other by means of a slide structure 8, which is locked to its place by means of a locking pin or a locking screw. Between the structures 2 or in one structure 2 there are also attachment bars, plates or flanges 9, by which the wall part 1 is attached at a desired height on the wall by means of a bolt or screw fastening, for instance. An individual crossbar 3 of the wall part 1 can be replaced by a group of fixed crossbars. [0032] Inside or outside the structures 2 there is also a lowerable foot part 4, which also comprises two horizontal tube, beam or guide structures 5, between which one or more horizontal crossbars 6 are attached movably. When the structures 5 are folded against the wall for storage, they are vertical. In order to be folded, they are attached to the structures 2 with joints 10, whereby the joints 10 have a common horizontal axis of rotation 11. The joint 10 is at a height where the horizontal foot part 4 is to be located. The joint 10 is usually in the lower part of the wall part 1. Most suitably, the foot part 4 and the wall part 1 are at right angles to each other but supporting structures 12 (FIG. 2) of the foot part 4, or the floor part, can also be adjustable in length, and so they can be brought to an inclined position, if necessary. The distance between the structures 5 is most suitably arranged to be such that a person has enough space to stand between them in a desired position. The support 12 preferably comprises a crossbar 7 attached to the ends of the structures 5 or it can also be moved along the structures 5. When the foot part 4 is folded up, the crossbar 7 can still be used for training, and not just as a foot support or support foot. By means of the supporting bars 12, the crossbar 7 is placed at a distance from the structure 5 and thus it is easy to grab it and it acts simultaneously as a foot when the foot part 4 is lowered down. The supporting bars 12 and the bar 7 acting as a support foot can also be separate members, in which case the supporting bars 12 can be turned into view, if required. The structures 2 and 5 are attached to each other or the structure 5 is attached elsewhere in the wall part 1 by means of a pin locking 13, for instance, but the attachment must be strong enough so that the suspension from the crossbar 7 does not cause the attachments to open. [0033] Between the structures 2 there are short parallel bars 14, which are horizontal and extend to a distance from the wall and from the other parts of the wall part 1. The parallel bars 14 are placed at such a distance that the body fits between them and it is possible to perform various press-up exercises. A particular feature is that the height and the distance of the parallel bars 14 from each other are adjustable. In the embodiment shown, the parallel bars are attached to the wall part 1 like cranks, whereby their axis of rotation is parallel to the parallel bars 14, but the axis of rotation is at a distance from the longitudinal axis of each parallel bar 14. When the parallel bar 14 is moved, it always moves simultaneously in the vertical and in the lateral direction along a path formed like a circular arc. The attachment comprises a joint 15 and a flange 16 to which the parallel bar 14 is attached. The flange 16 comprises holes, into which a locking pin, for instance, can be inserted. Correspondingly, the wall part 1 comprises a hole for the locking pin. The extent of the arc of the holes corresponds to the angle of adjustability of the parallel bars 14. [0034] The parallel bars 14 can be attached directly or by means of a plate 18 to two vertical bars 17 of the wall part 1. The attachment can also allow the parallel bars 14 to be moved along the vertical bar 17 by using the same principles as in the mechanisms for moving various crossbars. A separate crossbar for other training exercises, such as for chin-ups, can be attached to the ends of the parallel bars 14 or between them. [0035] The fitness apparatus also comprises a ceiling part 19 according to FIG. 3, which, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, is a part separate from the wall part 1 and attachable to the ceiling. The ceiling part 19 comprises two horizontal tube, beam or guide structures 20, between which one or more horizontal crossbars 21 are attached movably. The crossbar 21 either slides along the structures 20 or it can be detached and attached to a new place. In the attachments of the structure 20, the same details as in the wall part 1 are utilized. The structure of the crossbars 21 can vary, and thus they comprise, for example, a triangular bar, the crossbar 21 of which is located at a distance from the structures 20 and in a wider area, if required. The lower surface of the crossbar 21 can also comprise a number of fastening hooks 22, holes or other fastening elements, to which cables, strings, ropes or other tapes as well as handles fastened to them can be connected. Various rubber bands, tackles and springs can also be fastened to the hooks 22. Most suitably, this crossbar 21 is movable, but also a moving crossbar acting as a support can be replaced by a number of fixed crossbars. [0036] In this case, it is important that fastening elements 22 are placed broadly along the entire width so that different types of training and the strain control would be possible. The ceiling part 19 can be attached to the ceiling suitably, for instance, by means of supporting structures 23 attached between the structures 20, which can also be used for attaching the ceiling part 19 to a desired distance from the ceiling. Consequently, the fitness apparatus according to the first embodiment of the invention comprises at least the wall part 1 and the ceiling part 19, which are either separate parts or attached to each other. Furthermore, the apparatus comprises the foot part 4, which is most suitably attached to the wall part 1 by means of a joint. The joint is not essential, and the structures can therefore be fixed closely together or a separate foot part 4 can be attached to the floor. [0037] A second embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4, in which the fitness apparatus comprises two end parts 1 attached to each other, one foot part 4 attached between the end parts 1, and possibly also one ceiling part 19 also attached between the end parts 1. A frame-like structure is thus achieved, wherein the parts support one another and form a rigid and durable structure where the end parts 1, on one hand, and the ceiling part 19 and the foot part 4, on the other hand, are located at a distance from each other. The ceiling part 19 is usually situated higher than a person's head and the distance of the end parts 1 from each other is usually longer than the length of a person. Supported by its structure, the fitness apparatus rests, for instance, on the floor, on which the end parts 1 rest, the other parts being supported by the end parts, whereupon the attachments to the ceiling or wall are not necessary, unless the immobility and stability of the structure is to be secured. The second embodiment also comprises parallel bars 14. [0038] Specific details of the fitness apparatus include a crossbar 6 moving in the horizontal direction of the foot part 4, crossbars 3 moving in the vertical direction of the end parts 1, and one or more crossbars 21 moving in the horizontal direction of the ceiling part 19. The crossbars can be provided with various plates, supports, swings, handles, rings, straps and attachments, on which hands or feet can be supported or to which, for instance, feet can be fastened firmly. For each purpose, the fitness apparatus comprises most suitably several different crossbar solutions, whereby they can be quickly taken into use or they can replace the bar which was used earlier, or the bar itself allows these additional parts to be replaced and attached. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the cross member 6 of the foot part 4 is movable, whereupon the floor can be kept available for various benches or a wheelchair, for instance. For a wheelchair, at least the lower part of one end part 1 must be open, whereby it is preferable to use a moving crossbar 3 at that particular end part 1. [0039]FIG. 5 schematically shows a basic principle of an embodiment partially in section and from the end part 1 of the fitness apparatus, intended for achieving and moving a bearer 21 or a crossbar 21 moving in the ceiling part 19. This embodiment comprises a casing structure 27 attached to the bearer 21 and enclosing a bar or guide structure 20 of the ceiling part 19 and resting on the bar or guide structure 20, supported by one or more wheels 28. In the lower part of the casing structure 27, under the bar or guide structure 20, there is a locking pin 30 movable against the spring force of a locking spring 29 and locking the bearer 21 in its place in the locking hole of the bar or guide structure 20. A string 32 or a cable 32, the end of which can be provided with a handle, can be fastened to a ring 31 of the locking pin 30. When the bearer 21 is moved in the longitudinal direction of the bar or guide structure 20, the locking pin 30 is pulled against the spring force of the locking spring 29 away from the locking hole of the bar or guide structure 20 and, by holding the string or the cable, the bearer 21 is moved to a new location in the bar or guide structure 20. Thereafter, said string or cable is released and the locking pin 30, pushed by the locking spring 29, moves into the locking hole, thus locking the bearer 21 in its place in the bar or guide structure 20. The bearer 21 can thus be easily moved, while a person stands on the ground. The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is shown only schematically and it does not necessarily illustrate the right proportions of the shown structures. [0040] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 and briefly mentioned earlier, the crossbar 21 or the bearer 21 and the fastening hooks 22 or other corresponding fastening elements therein preferably extend to the outside of the frame structure formed by the bar or guide structure 20 of the ceiling structure 19, which means that the bearer 21 is preferably wider than the frame structure formed by the bar or guide structure 20. Due to this, the location of handles, rings or other similar training means to be suspended from the bearer 21 can be changed in a very large area in the width direction of the fitness apparatus and, if desired, they can thus also be fastened to the bearer's 21 fastening hooks 22 outside the fitness apparatus in the width direction of the apparatus. Due to this, various training exercises with very wide paths of movement can be performed and strain caused by the exercises can be controlled and implemented better and on a larger scale. [0041] The purpose of the crossbars of the fitness apparatus is to adjust the strenuousness of training and control a body position, whereby it is also possible to have structures which do not have a bar-like shape, as long as they allow that suitable training means can be fastened and that a grip with hands or support for feet during exercises are provided. In particular, they provide a support for feet, on which support the entire or part of the body weight rests. The feet can thus also be supported at the ankles by the crossbars of the end part, while a person holds on to the bars suspended from the ceiling part. The end part can be provided with a similar crossbar as the ceiling part, and so it is possible to attach the means to a desired width also in the end part or the wall part. The crossbars thus form a movable cross member structure, by which a person can be supported, which he can grab or to which he can fasten different auxiliary means. [0042] In this case, the parallel bars 14 are attached at their both ends, and thus they extend from the first end part 1 to the second end part 1, being mainly located on the outer edge of and outside the fitness apparatus. To provide a variety of uses, the parallel bars 14 can also be located inside the end parts 1, in which case the parallel bars 14 pass through the end parts 1. Each parallel bar 14 is attached at its both ends to a horizontal guide 24, and the distance of the parallel bars can be adjusted by means of holes or a locking pin, for instance. Each guide 24 is attached to a guide structure 25 moving along the structure of the end part 1, which makes it possible to adjust the height of the parallel bars 14. The attachment 26 of each parallel bar 14 end to the horizontal 24 guide is implemented so that an inclination of the parallel bar 14 is allowed, whereby the parallel bar 14 rotates around the horizontal but, with respect to the longitudinal direction of the parallel bar 14, transverse axis of rotation. This allows, in particular, that the inclination of the parallel bars 14 can be adjusted to make different type of exercises possible. This creates more alternatives to use the fitness apparatus. The guides are formed, for instance, so that a beam-like structure, the cross section of which corresponds to the shape of a sleeve, moves in a sliding manner inside the sleeve-like ring part. By attaching two sleeve parts to each other crosswise, a guide is formed, allowing the structures attached thereto to move in the cross direction. A rotating joint, in turn, is fixed to the end of a horizontal structure, for instance. The attachment also allows that the parallel bars 14 can be positioned so as to have a narrowing or broadening shape, also when being inclined. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the parallel bars 14 are attached to a uniform metal framework, in which they can be adjusted in so many ways that one end of the parallel bars can be in contact with the floor, while the other end is located over 2 meters in height. Even though the parallel bars are in use, the crossbars and rings, handles or other means suspended from them can be utilized simultaneously. FIGS. 6 to 11 schematically show training exercises, which can be carried out with the fitness apparatus. FIG. 6 shows how a handstand can be performed so that the hands are supported on the bearer 6 of the floor part 4 and the feet are supported by the bearer 6 of the end part 1. FIG. 6 also shows that the moving bearer 6 is at the left end of the fitness apparatus in FIG. 6, whereby the right end of the fitness apparatus can be left available for wheelchair access. FIG. 7 shows how abdominal muscles can be trained with the fitness apparatus, while the feet are supported by the parallel bars 14. FIG. 8 shows how exercises similar to training exercises performed with gymnastic rings can be carried out in the fitness apparatus. In FIG. 8, the feet are supported by the bearer 6 in the floor part and the hands are supported by the handles suspended from the crossbar 21 in the ceiling part 19. In FIG. 8, the handles are suspended from the crossbar 21 so that their suspension point at the crossbar 21 is, in the width direction of the fitness apparatus, inside the frame structure of the apparatus, whereas in FIG. 9 the handles are suspended form the crossbar 21 so that their suspension point at the crossbar 21 is, in the width direction of the fitness apparatus, outside the frame structure of the apparatus. FIG. 10 shows how the parallel bars 14 can be utilized when balancing exercises are performed with the fitness apparatus. FIG. 11 shows how two people can train simultaneously by using the same apparatus, whereby the hands of one person are supported by the handles suspended from the crossbar 21 of the ceiling part and the other person is training by using the weights supported by the end part 1. [0043] The frame-like apparatus has a length and height of about 2.0 to 3.0 meters, and so at least one person fits inside the apparatus in different positions. The maximum distance of the parallel bars 14 can be over 2.0 m and when they are at the shortest distance from each other, a person still fits between them, or they can be moved so close to each other that they almost come into contact. This is possible, because the parallel bars 14 can be placed either inside or outside the end parts 1. [0044] The present invention is not restricted only to the above example, but may be modified within the scope of the attached claims. According to an embodiment, the bearer 21 of the ceiling part 19 in the width direction of the fitness apparatus can be implemented in the form of a net made of metal, for instance, and covering the entire area of the ceiling part 19 and being attached thereto. Thus, transverse bars attached to longitudinal bars of the net form the bearers 21 of the ceiling part 19, from which bearers the handles or other similar means can be suspended. Therefore, the ceiling part 19 does not require a separate bearer 21 movable in the longitudinal direction of the bar or guide structure 20. It is furthermore clear that when the moving bearer 21 is used, the bearer 21 can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the bar or guide structure 20 of the ceiling part 19 by using various different electrical or mechanical solutions. Referenced byCiting PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS7896786 *Aug 31, 2009Mar 1, 2011Windell OsbournePortable modular exercise apparatus for multiple usersUS7955238 *Nov 27, 2007Jun 7, 2011Leo D NovskyWheelchair-accessible fitness systemUS8062195Oct 10, 2007Nov 22, 2011Amit IsraeliIndividual physical training deviceWO2008044238A1 *Oct 10, 2007Apr 17, 2008Amit IsraeliIndividual physical training device* Cited by examinerClassifications U.S. Classification482/41, 482/51International ClassificationA63B21/068, A63B21/00, A63B3/00Cooperative ClassificationA63B21/1457, A63B21/068, A63B3/00, A63B21/00European ClassificationA63B3/00, A63B21/00, A63B21/068Legal EventsDateCodeEventDescriptionAug 4, 2003ASAssignmentOwner name: SPORTLAND OY, FINLANDFree format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NAPPARI, MARTTI;REEL/FRAME:013850/0291Effective date: 20030505RotateOriginal ImageGoogle Home - Sitemap - USPTO Bulk Downloads - Privacy Policy - Terms of Service - About Google Patents - Send FeedbackData provided by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services