Patent ID: 6855093

Claim:
A simulated stair climbing-type exercise apparatus comprising: a stationary frame adapted for placement on a horizontal surface; a first pedal assembly having a first pedal at least one roller and a second pedal assembly having a second pedal and at least one roller, movable with respect to said frame in a generally vertical direction; a resistance force mechanism secured to said frame; a transmission including a pair of one way clutches for directly connecting said first pedal assembly and said second pedal assembly to said resistance force means such that said resistance force mechanism is effective to apply a resistance force opposing said first pedal assembly and said second pedal assembly movement in a downward direction; a first flexible member connecting said first pedal assembly to said one of said pair of one way clutches and a second flexible member connecting said second pedal assembly to said other of said pair of one way clutches; and a first and a second track member secured to said frame, said roller of said first pedal assembly operably engaged with said first track member and roller of said second pedal assembly operably engaged with said second track members such that said first pedal and said second pedal are maintained generally parallel to a predetermined plane throughout their reciprocating motion between an upper position and a lower position.