AU2014271271A1

AU2014271271A1 - Exercise Apparatus

Info

Publication number: AU2014271271A1
Application number: AU2014271271A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Steven Barry ADAMS
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2014-12-03
Filing date: 2014-12-03
Publication date: 2016-06-23
Also published as: WO2016086264A1

Abstract

Abstract Exercise apparatus 10"' has a base 12""' with a first platform 14 .' fixedly mounted to or integrated with the base 12""'. A second platform 16"" is coplanar with the first platform 14"' and is movably mounted on the base 12""'. Biasing means bias the second 5 platform 16"" into juxtaposition with the first platform 14"'. Each of the first and second platforms (14"' and 16"") has in use an upper surface which is substantially flat. At least one of the platforms (14"' and 16"") has on its upper surface an aperture (102, 104, 106, 108) adapted to receive an exercise accessory (110, 114). io Alternately or in addition the apparatus 10"' is convertible to a step aerobics device by a spacer 50""' inserted next to the second platform 16"", or by the addition of a cover 18"' which fits under the base 12""' when not in use. ora /I k ~l o4 * v~14!' *f ~ 1,. * Ill, llp ,l Ile I~~ ~ ?j/I

Description

Exercise Apparatus

Field of the Invention

This invention is concerned with exercise apparatus. In particular, the invention is concerned with exercise apparatus which is capable, at least in some embodiments, of being used in conjunction with a large number of fitness and/or rehabilitation exercises.

Background of the Invention

Exercise apparatus is often designed for the purposes of a single sport or focuses on exercising a small range of muscle groups. It is an object of this invention, at least in some embodiments, to provide exercise apparatus which is easily portable and adaptable to a wide variety of exercises. It is a further object to provide exercise apparatus which works with one or more accessories to enable a wide use of the apparatus for different purposes.

It is an object of this invention, in a second aspect, to provide exercise apparatus which is easily convertible to a step aerobics device.

Disclosure of the Invention

Accordingly, in a first aspect, this invention provides exercise apparatus including: a base; a first platform fixedly mounted to or integrated with the base; - a second platform, coplanar with the first platform and movably mounted on the base; and biasing means biasing the second platform into juxtaposition with the first platform; wherein each of the first and second platforms has in use an upper surface which is substantially flat and wherein at least one of the platforms has on its upper surface an aperture adapted to receive an exercise accessory.

In a second aspect, this invention provides exercise apparatus including: a base; - a first platform fixedly mounted to or integrated with the base; - a second platform, coplanar with the first platform and movably mounted on the base; and - biasing means biasing the second platform into juxtaposition with the first platform; wherein each of the first and second platforms has in use an upper surface which is substantially flat and wherein the apparatus is convertible to a step aerobics device by: a spacer next to the second platform; or the addition of a cover which fits under the base when not in use.

The invention in the first and second aspects may be combined.

Unless otherwise indicated, the options and preferred embodiments below may be used for either aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the base is sized to neatly accommodate the first and second platforms, and that the second platform is movable within, but not beyond, the footprint of the base.

The base and first and second platforms of the exercise apparatus of the invention may be made of any suitable material and may be made all of the same materials or of materials which are different from each other. It is preferred that the first platform and the base (whether integrated or not) are made of blow moulded plastic. It is preferred that the second platform is made of injection moulded plastic. Other materials will also be suitable.

The first platform may be formed with the base, or it may be attached to the base by any suitable method, preferably by adhesion.

The second platform is movably mounted on the base. This may be effected by any suitable means. Preferably, the second platform is mounted on rollers or wheels or rails or tracks so that it may be moved away from and towards the first platform, while still being on the base.

The biasing means preferably includes a plurality of resistance elements, such as resilient bands capable of returning to a rest position after being stretched. In one preferred embodiment, there are three or more resistance elements, in a parallel arrangement. It is particularly preferred that one or more of the resistance elements may be selected for engagement by the user, to provide greater or lesser resistance to movement of the second platform.

The biasing means is preferably mounted on the base, more preferably on the side of the base which is uppermost in use.

If desired, a detachable stop may be inserted to prevent the second platform from travelling for its full range of motion, so that the exercise apparatus of the invention may be made suitable for short user or in rehabilitation where a short range of movement is required. A detachable stop may also be used to hold the second platform away from the first platform and prevent the second platform from returning to its juxtaposition with the first platform.

In use, the upper surface of each platform is substantially flat. The upper surface may be made of the same material as the remainder of the platform, or it may comprise a different surface. For example, the upper surface may be cushioned, or grooved or textured to increase friction. The upper surface may include an insert which is replaceable or interchangeable to add to the variety of uses for the exercise apparatus of the invention. The upper surface may include graphics, including instructions for use or indicators to assist a user when operating the exercise apparatus of the invention.

While there may be a single aperture in one of the upper surfaces, it is preferred that there are several apertures. The (or each) aperture is intended to receive an exercise accessory. The exercise accessory may take various forms. Preferably, the exercise accessory is chosen from the group consisting of a handle, a single hand grip, a double hand grip or a block or barrier (for example for bracing a foot against). A hand grip may take various forms, including a 'kettle' grip, a push-up grip and a ball grip.

The manner of receipt of the exercise accessory into the aperture may take many forms, as appropriate. If the exercise accessory is intended for use as a grip, handle or block on which there will be no or very little vertical lifting force during exercise, the aperture may be a simple cavity, eg, cylindrical. In this embodiment, the entrance to the aperture may be of smaller diameter than the remainder of the cavity; the exercise accessory may have a shaft with outwardly-biased bearings which are compressed inwardly by the aperture entrance, and expand outwardly into the cavity to hold the shaft until it is withdrawn by the exertion of vertical upward force.

Each aperture may be designed to accept several different types of exercise accessory, to increase versatility.

In one embodiment, there is a third platform, movably mounted on the base and biased into juxtaposition with the first platform. In this embodiment, the first platform is situated between the second and third platforms. Preferably, the base is sized to neatly accommodate the first, second and third platforms, and each of the second and third platforms is movable within, but not beyond, the footprint of the base.

Preferably, the exercise apparatus of the invention is provided with a cover for the platforms. It is particularly preferred that the cover may be used as a step pad, as in the second aspect of the invention, so that the exercise apparatus of the invention may be used in an aerobic step class environment, as well as being useful for other exercises.

In another embodiment, the exercise apparatus of the invention may be designed to have an underbase which may be detached or removed from storage below the base and placed on top of the platforms, as a cover for use in a step class. The underbase or cover may be shaped to be used on the platforms in an inverted orientation.

In a further embodiment, a spacer may be inserted next to the second platform, optionally between the first and second platforms, to provide a step platform. The spacer may be stored away, when not required, under the base and may be locked in the base or stored under the base. In one embodiment, the spacer is hinged to the base at one end thereof. When the second platform is intended to be moved, the spacer is opened on the hinge. When the top of the exercise apparatus is used for step exercises, the spacer is closed down to present a suitable flat surface.

The underbase or cover may be combined with the spacer.

It is preferred that the base is designed to coordinate with existing devices, such as step risers used in aerobic step classes, so that the height of the exercise apparatus of the invention may be varied.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will now be described in connection with preferred embodiments. It is to be understood that the embodiments are not intended to be limiting on the scope of the invention.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the invention, with optional cover and optional step risers;

Figure 2 is a partially exploded view of the embodiment in Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows the Figure 1 embodiment without the cover;

Figure 4 shows the Figure 1 embodiment without the step risers;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a second embodiment and shows the second platform in the rest position;

Figure 6 shows the Figure 5 embodiment with the second platform in the extended position (against the bias of the biasing means);

Figure 7 is an exploded view of the embodiment of Figure 5;

Figure 8 is a similar embodiment to that in Figures 5 to 7, with a variation of the base and having optional step risers;

Figure 9 is a partial perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 8, showing an embodiment of biasing means mounted on the upper side of the base;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of a slightly different embodiment of biasing means;

Figure 11 is a partially exploded view of the embodiment of Fig 10;

Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an alternate arrangement of the biasing means, mounted on the lower side of the second platform;

Figure 13A is a plan view and Figure 13B is an elevation of a further embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the invention, having a third platform;

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention, having a spacer to convert the exercise apparatus to a step platform;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention, similar to that in Figure 14, but having a positive lock for the spacer;

Figure 16 is an elevation of another embodiment having a spacer to convert the exercise apparatus to a step platform;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment having a spacer to convert the exercise apparatus to a step platform;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment having a spacer to convert the exercise apparatus to a step platform;

Figure 19A is a perspective view and Figure 19B is a an elevation, partly in cross-section, of another embodiment;

Figure 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment having a hinged spacer to convert the exercise apparatus to a step platform;

Figure 21A is a partial perspective view and Figure 21B is a cross section showing configuration of an embodiment of rollers and tracks for the second platform;

Figure 22A is an exploded view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the invention while Figure 22B shows the underside of the cover;

Figure 23 is a perspective view of an embodiment in which the cover nests beneath the base when not in use;

Figures 24 and 25 show another embodiment of the convertible exercise apparatus of the invention;

Figures 26 to 29 show embodiments of multiple aperture placement on one of the platforms;

Figure 30 is an elevation of a push up handle for insertion in two of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29;

Figure 31 is an elevation of a different push up handle for insertion in two of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29;

Figure 32 is an elevation of a ball grip for insertion in two of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29;

Figure 33 is an elevation of a double handed grip for insertion in two of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29;

Figure 34 is an elevation of a grip handle for insertion in one of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29;

Figure 35 is an elevation of a kettle handle for insertion in two of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29; and

Figure 36 is an elevation of a block or barrier for insertion in one of the apertures in Figures 26 to 29.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

The embodiments of the invention described below relate to preferred embodiments of the present invention only and are given by way of illustration. Changes, modifications and variations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that the drawings are not all on the same scale.

Unless otherwise indicated, the same parts are labelled the same throughout the drawings. Parts which are similar but not identical are indicated by use of the same number, with the addition of', ", etc.

Turning first to Figures 1 to 4, exercise apparatus 10 has a base 12 and a first platform 14 fixedly mounted to base 12. A second platform 16 is coplanar with first platform 14 and is movably mounted on base 12. Second platform 16 is shown in Figures 1 to 4 as extended against the biasing means (referred to in greater detail below).

Second platform 16 is able to be moved away from first platform 14 only to the extent shown in Figures 3 and 4, so that second platform 16 is always within the footprint of base 12. This is achieved by use of a stop or frame to limit movement of second platform 16 beyond the footprint.

Cover 18 enables exercise apparatus 10 to be used as a step device if desired. Base 12 is designed with hollows so that step risers 20 may be retained by a friction fit in base 12, as shown in Figure 1.

When exercise device 10 is intended for use cover 18 and step risers 20 are removed, as seen in Figure 3.

Although not shown in Figures 2 to 4, either or both of platforms 14 and 16 may have one or more apertures on their upper surface 22. Further details of apertures are described in relation to Figures 26 to 29, below. Each aperture may be located on an upper surface 22 where desired, but preferably centrally on or towards the outer perimeter of upper surface 22.

The embodiment in Figures 5 to 7 is similar to that in Figures 1 to 4 but does not show any cover or step risers.

Exercise apparatus 10' has a base 12' and a first platform 14' fixedly mounted to base 12'. A second platform 16' is coplanar with first platform 14' and is movably mounted on base 12'. Second platform 16 is shown in Figure 5 in the rest position, in juxtaposition with first platform 14', and in Figures 6 and 7 as extended against the biasing means (referred to in greater detail below).

As with the first embodiment, base 12' is designed with hollows so that step risers 20' may be retained by a friction fit in base 12', as shown in Figure 7.

In the exploded view in Figure 7, base 12' is shown to have three parts, upper base part 12a', intermediate base part 12b' and lower base part 12c'. On upper base part 12a' are two tracks 24 (only one of which is labelled) on which run wheels 26 (see Figure 9) of second platform 16'. The biasing means is described in relation to similar embodiments in Figures 8 to 10.

In Figure 8, the biasing means for biasing second platform 16' into juxtaposition against first platform 14' is shown as having three resistance bands 28 anchored to first platform 14' at one end and to second platform 16' at the other end. Guide 30 (Figure 9) maintains correct spacing between resistance bands 28. Knobs 32 (the same as those shown visible externally in Figures 5 to 7) can be turned to allow one or more of the each resistance bands 28 to be engaged or disengaged by the user as required, to increase or decrease resistance. Resistance bands 28 may be replaceable by others of greater or lesser resistance, for the same reason.

In an alternate embodiment (not shown), instead of resistance bands 28 coil springs may be used, to a similar effect.

The embodiment of biasing means shown in Figures 10 and 11 is similar to that in the previous Figures, except guide 30 is omitted and frames 34a and 34b are provided for anchoring resistance bands 28. Frame 34a is fixed to the base (not shown) or to first platform 14'. Frame 34b is fixed to second platform 16'.

Knob 32 has a square aperture 35 in which is received spindle 36 having notch 37. Notch 37 is engaged by aperture 38 on hook 39. Turning knob 32 clockwise engages a resistance band 28 when spindle 36 causes hook 39 to rotate, engaging end 41 of resistance band 28. The resistance band 28 may be disengaged by turning knob 32 anticlockwise, releasing end 41 from hook 39.

While the biasing means is mounted on the upper surface the base in the embodiments in Figures 5 to 11, Figure 12 shows how the biasing means may be mounted on the underneath side of second platform 16'. Resistance bands 28 at ends 40 are anchored on the base or to the first platform (not shown in this Figure).

Referring now to Figure 13A and Figure 13B, in this embodiment exercise apparatus 10" has on base 12" a third platform 42, which is movable away from and towards first platform 14", as is second platform 16", as indicated by arrows 44 in Figure 13B.

Exercise apparatus 10" is longer than in the previous embodiments, measuring 1800 mm in length by 400 mm in width. Base 12" is hinged at 46 so that it may be folded in half for transport or storage. Step risers 20" are included in this embodiment, using a friction fit with base 12".

On upper surface 22" of each of second platform 16" and third platform 42 there are multiple apertures indicated at 48a and 48b, for insertion of selected exercise accessories, as described in more detail in connection with Figures 26 to 36.

Spacers may be used to convert the exercise apparatus of the invention to a step aerobics device. Embodiments are illustrated in Figures 14 to 20.

In the embodiment in Figure 14, first platform 14"' is integral with base 12'", which is sized to accept step risers (not shown). Spacer 50, which is similar in appearance to second platform 16'", is inserted between first platform 14'" and second platform 16'" after moving second platform 16'" as far away from first platform 14'" as possible. Because second platform 16'" is biased towards first platform 14'", spacer 50 is held in place between them. Spacer 50 is coplanar with each of first platform 14'" and second platform 16'" and the three elements provide a good flat surface for an aerobics step device.

The embodiment in Figure 15 is similar to that in Figure 14, except that the spacer has dovetailing protrusions 52 and the first and second platforms have corresponding channels 54 for locking the spacer in position between the first and second platforms.

Risers 20 are visible in Figure 15.

Another form of interlocking spacer 50' is shown in Figure 16. Here spacer 50' has tongues 56 which slide into grooves 58 in the first and second platforms. Spacer 50' can be stored under the base by sliding into grooves 58' as indicated by arrow 60.

In the embodiment in Figure 17, spacer 50" is sited on one side of the base, with first platform 14'" and second platform 62 on the other side, so that spacer 50" is not held between beside the first and second platforms. When changing the exercise apparatus from the configuration of an aerobics step device, spacer 50" is pushed towards the second platform 62: a tongue (not shown) slides along slot 64 and spacer 50" locks onto second platform 62.

Figure 18 illustrates an embodiment where spacer 50 "' is stored upside down until needed in a recessed area of riser 20' as indicated by arrow 66. Alternately, spacer 50'" may be stored beneath the base by clips or the like (not shown).

When required for a step aerobics device, spacer 50"' is removed from riser 20' or its storage location under the base and inserted into frame 68 of the apparatus (see arrow 70), where it sits flush with the second platform.

In Figures 19A and 19B, spacer 50"" is supported in position as part of a step platform by neighbouring second platform 62' and base end 72. Risers 20 are shown in this embodiment; when spacer 50"" is not in use, it may be stored in a cavity in riser 20 as shown at 74 or under the base in a cavity shown at 76.

The spacer 50 may be permanently attached to the exercise apparatus of the invention, as illustrated in Figure 20. Here, spacer 50'"" is hinged at 78 to frame 68'. When second platform 62" is required to be movable, spacer 50'"" is opened up as shown by arrow 79, and locked into place. For step device use, spacer 50'"" is folded down so that spacer 50'"" is flush with second platform 62".

Figure 21A shows in partial perspective view and Figure 21B shows in partial cross section an embodiment of rollers and tracks for the second platform, particularly for those embodiments in which a riser 20 is inserted in base 12 (shown as a generic example). Second platform 16 (shown as a generic example) has nib 80 with aperture 82 in which axle 84 for wheels 86 is received. In base 12 are tracks or grooves 88 for guiding wheels 86. Tracks 88 may be lined with material such as nylon or formed by a suitable metal or metal alloy, such as an aluminium alloy, which aids in smooth functioning of wheels 86 along base 12 when second platform 16 is moved.

As shown in Figure 21B, base 12 is shaped to accommodate riser 20.

Figures 22A and 22B show an embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the invention in which a cover is used to convert the apparatus to a step device, the cover being stored under the base when not in use.

In this embodiment, first platform 14'" is blow moulded in one piece with base 12"", which is sized to accept step risers (not shown). Second platform 16 "' is injection moulded and is the same as that in Figure 14. Cover 18', which is injection moulded, nests under base 12"" when not required; when needed, cover 18' may be removed from its storage position under base 12"" and placed over platforms 14'" and 16'" to provide a step surface.

As shown in Figure 22B, the underside of cover 18' has recesses 90a and 90b to accommodate first platform 14'" and second platform 16'" respectively, while central portion 92 has struts 94 which serve to support the centre of cover 18' in use and to maintain second platform 16'" in the position shown in Figure 22A - against the biasing means (not detailed).

Figure 23 shows a very similar embodiment to that in Figures 22A and 22B, varying in that base 12 is like that in Figure 19. Cover 18" is shown nesting under base 12'"".

Inset into each of platforms 14'" and 16"" are foam pads 96, to provide comfort and/or friction when using the apparatus.

In Figures 24 and 25, the exercise apparatus of the invention combines a spacer combined with a cover which is stored beneath the base when not required. In this embodiment, base 12'"" is formed integrally with first platform 14'". Second platform 16"" is movable along tracks 88. There are foam inserts 96 in each of platforms 14'" and 16"". The foam inserts 96 may be interchangeable with other foam inserts of a different colour, softness, density or feel.

Cover 18'" is integral with a spacer 50'"". To convert the exercise apparatus from the configuration shown in Figure 24 to that in Figure 25, cover 18'" is detached from its position under base 12'"" and rotated through 180 degrees. Second platform 16"" is moved away from first platform 14'". Cover 18'" is pushed onto platforms 14'" and 16"" so that spacer 50'"" fits between them. Step pad 98 on cover 18'" provides a non-slip surface for step classes.

To reconvert the apparatus, cover 18'" is pulled off the platforms, flipped over and stored beneath base as indicated by arrow 100.

Turning now to Figures 26 to 29, these show embodiments of multiple aperture placement on one of the platforms. One of these apertures, or multiple apertures, may be sited on any of the first, second or third platforms, or on two or more of these. Preferably, the apertures are too small to cause discomfort in use when no exercise accessory is inserted. Any combination of apertures may be used. It preferred that apertures or sets of apertures have a colour coded zone which is keyed to a colour appearing on an exercise accessory intended for insertion in that aperture or those apertures, to assist in rapid insertion of the correct accessory.

Figure 26 shows an upper surface 22" of a platform, which may be any of the first, second and third platforms. In this embodiment, the apertures are in two pairs. Apertures 102a and 102b are centrally located on surface 22" and are colour coded 'pink', Apertures 104a and 104b are located towards the outer edge of surface 22", which is preferably at an outer edge of the exercise apparatus, and are colour coded 'yellow'.

Figure 27 shows the same two pairs of apertures, 102a and 102b and 104a and 104b, this time arranged in a "T" configuration centrally located in surface 22", with aperture 102a located between apertures 104a and 104b.

In Figure 28, a third pair of apertures, 106a and 106b, have been added to those in Figure 27, forming an "H" configuration. Apertures 106a and 106b are colour coded 'blue'.

In Figure 29, there are two sets of 'yellow' apertures 104a, 104b, two sets of 'blue' apertures 106a and 106b, and added sets of 'green' apertures 108a and 108b. There is one set of'pink' apertures 102a, 102b. All apertures have multiple identities, as indicated in the Figure.

Figure 30 is an elevation of a push up handle 110 having lugs 112a and 112b. Push up handle 110 is colour coded 'pink' and lugs 112a and 112b fit into apertures 102a and 102b.

Figure 31 is an elevation of a different push up handle 110' having lugs 112a' and 112b'. Push up handle 110' is colour coded 'blue' and lugs 112a' and 112b' fit into apertures 106a and 106b.

Figure 32 shows a ball grip 110" with lugs 112a" and 112b". It is colour coded 'green' and lugs 112a" and 112b" fit into apertures 088a and 108b.

In Figure 33, double handed grip 110'" has lugs 112a'" and 112b'" for insertion in yellow apertures 104a and 104b.

The grip handle 114 in Figure 34 has a single lug 116 which fits into any of the apertures.

Similarly, the block 114' in Figure 36 has lug 116' which fits into any of the apertures.

Kettle handle 110"" in Figure 35 is colour coded 'pink'; its lugs 112a"" and 112b"" fit into apertures 102a and 102b.

Each of lugs 112 and 116 Is a simple push fit into its aperture. If desired, locking mean may be added.

The exercise apparatus of the invention may be used in a variety of ways. For example, in the configuration shown in Figure 1, the exercise apparatus can be used as a step platform for an aerobics step class, with the user stepping up onto the step platform and down again, often using choreographed moves. Step risers of appropriate height may be added, as desired.

In the configuration shown in Figure 4, the exercise apparatus is useful for a large range of exercises for strengthening the lower body and core muscles. The user places one foot on the first platform and the other foot on the second, movable platform and forces the second platform to move away from the first platform, against the biasing means. Adjustment of the biasing means can increase or decrease the force required.

The exercise device may be easily turned around so that the opposite foot is on the second platform.

The user may be required to perform exercises in which the exercise apparatus of the invention presents a lack of stability, so that the user is obliged to use and strengthen core muscles.

If exercise accessories are inserted in the aperture/s, the range of exercise available to the user are dramatically increased. For example, a grip handle inserted in an aperture on the second platform can be grasped by the user, who kneels on the floor. The user can slide the second platform away from and towards the user against the resistance of the biasing means.

Similarly, a user can perform push-ups in several versions on the exercise apparatus by inserting a pair of push-up handles in apertures on either the first or the second platforms, using the instability provided by the movability of the second to strengthen the user.

By placing the block in one of the apertures on the movable platform, having the vertical side parallel to the user's foot, the user may maintain the movable platform away from the fixed platform while performing squats under load.

For some exercises, the user will be partly on the floor and will use an exercise accessory on the movable platform. For example, a user may kneel on the movable platform with the user's knees abutting the block and the user's hands on the floor, to perform abdominal exercises by pushing the movable platform towards and away from the fixed platform.

Industrial Applicability

The exercise apparatus of the invention provides a readily portable apparatus, easily convertible to an aerobics step device, and able to be combined with exercise accessories to enable a vast range of exercises to be performed.

The exercise device of the invention may be used in at least three areas: group or Individual fitness, rehabilitation and therapy, particularly for muscular-skeletal injury, and as a training aid for a variety of sports.

Claims

Claims

1. Exercise apparatus including: a base; a first platform fixedly mounted to or integrated with the base; a second platform, coplanar with the first platform and movably mounted on the base; and - biasing means biasing the second platform into juxtaposition with the first platform; wherein each of the first and second platforms has in use an upper surface which is substantially flat and wherein: at least one of the platforms has on its upper surface an aperture adapted to receive an exercise accessory; and/or - the apparatus is convertible to a step aerobics device by: (a) a spacer next to the second platform; or (b) the addition of a cover which fits under the base when not in use.
2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the platforms has on it upper surface a plurality of the apertures.
3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the base has a footprint and the second platform is movable within, but not beyond, the footprint base.
4. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the exercise accessory is chosen from the group consisting of a handle, a single hand grip, a double hand grip or a block or barrier.
5. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, which includes a third platform, movably mounted on the base and biased into juxtaposition with the first platform.
6. The exercise apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first platform is situated between the second and third platforms.
7. The exercise apparatus of claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the second and third platforms is movable within, but not beyond, the footprint of the base.
8. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover when not in use forms an underbase for the apparatus.
9. The exercise apparatus of claim 8, wherein the cover when not in use is stored in a first configuration and is used in an inverted configuration.
10. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the spacer is inserted between the first and second platforms.
11. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the spacer is placed next to the second platform but not next to the first platform.
12. The exercise apparatus of claims 11, wherein the spacer is hinged to the base at one end thereof.
13. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the spacer is combined with the cover.
14. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the base has a cavity for storage of the spacer.
15. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the base has a cavity for storage of a step riser.