Patent ID: 7731638

Claim:
An exercise machine, comprising: a stationary main frame; a user support frame; a pivot mount which pivotally supports the user support frame relative to the main frame for rotation along a predetermined path about a user support pivot axis from an exercise start position during an exercise, the pivot mount defining the location of the user support pivot axis whereby a gravitational center line which extends vertically through the user support pivot axis also extends through the user support frame during the rotation of the user support frame along said predetermined path; the user support frame having at least a primary support portion and a secondary support portion which are adapted to engage different parts of a user's body throughout an exercise movement, the secondary support portion being secured at a fixed angular orientation relative to the primary support portion as the user support frame moves along the predetermined path during an exercise, the primary support portion supporting the majority of a user's weight in the start position of the support frame; a user engagement device movably mounted relative to the frames which is engaged by the user in performing exercises; a multiple part connecting linkage separate from the user engagement device and the pivot mount which translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support frame, at least one part of the connecting linkage engaging the stationary main frame; a load for resisting movement of at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage; and the user support pivot axis lying on a horizontal line which is spaced below at least one of the support portions in at least one of the exercise start and end positions.