Patent ID: 8088052

Claim:
A core-strengthening exercise apparatus, comprising: a) a substantially C-shaped bar member having a first end portion, a middle portion and a second end portion; said first end portion and said second end portion being substantially parallel and approximately shoulder width apart; said middle portion having a longitudinal axis, at least a portion of said longitudinal axis being curvilinear, the apparatus being pivotable about said axis in a forward and rearward arcuate direction and along said curvilinear portion of said axis in a side-to-side direction; b) a first swing arm pivotally and perpendicularly mounted at or proximate to its midpoint to the end of said first end portion for supporting a first forearm of a user; and c) a second swing arm pivotally and perpendicularly mounted at or proximate to its midpoint to the end of said second end portion for supporting a second forearm of a user; whereby, in a first mode of use, the apparatus may be oriented with said swing arms resting on the floor with said bar member extending therebetween a distance above the floor to provide a stable gripping surface upon which a plurality of isometric and isotonic exercises may be performed; and whereby, in a second mode of use, the apparatus is inverted with said bar member in contact with the floor and supporting said swing arms above the floor to provide a pair of supports upon which a user may rest the forearms while assuming a plank position, said middle portion providing an interface between the user and the floor thereby invoking the user's core muscles to prevent loss of balance.