AU2021105946A4

AU2021105946A4 - Exercise Apparatus Mounting System

Info

Publication number: AU2021105946A4
Application number: AU2021105946A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Evan Zikos
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-08-19
Filing date: 2021-08-19
Publication date: 2021-10-28
Anticipated expiration: 2029-08-19

Abstract

Exercise Apparatus Mounting System The present invention relates in general to a mounting system configured to fold an exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raise the exercise apparatus above a floor surface thereby storing the exercise apparatus. The mounting system having at least one support system pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position. The support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface. 1/14 J ------------7 C14 .. .. .. .I /L I1 .. . -- - --j I F------ N1 LL\1 L C14: -------- - --------- ---- -------- C14 LO C1 1 L O LN - -

Description

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Exercise Apparatus Mounting System

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment which is adapted to be installed in or on the wall of a building. In particular, the present invention relates to a retractable wall mounted exercise system that may be easily and compactly stored when not in use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted that reference to the prior art herein is not to be taken as an acknowledgement that such prior art constitutes common general knowledge in the art.

Physical fitness is becoming increasingly important with more and more people working out to keep fit. For those who have the time and money they can invest in a gym membership and visit a gym containing the special equipment for physical exercise to get fit. However, the average person has a limited amount of free time and a limited budget to enjoy good health and adequately maintain physical fitness. To overcome these issues, exercise equipment is being installed at the home or office so that it is available for use whenever time permits. For example, people are converting living spaces or garage spaces into home gyms. However, space within offices, homes and apartments is valuable, especially with the increasing trend of smaller properties. The footprint required for exercise equipment can be significant especially when the equipment is not in use.

Like residential properties, commercial properties are also becoming smaller. Gyms where space is a premium have difficulties in attracting clientele if they cannot provide a full range of equipment or the space to utilise that equipment. For example, most weightlifting benches and exercise racks are constructed of heavy metal materials making them difficult and cumbersome to move around a gym and in the case of the exercise racks, not capable of being compactly stored without disassembling them.

No matter if it is for the home or the gym exercise equipment basically comes in one of two forms. A first form exists which was developed to perform a particular exercise for specific parts of the body. For example, benches developed to allow a user to perform a bench press or a treadmill for aerobic exercise. The next form was developed to provide a single apparatus which allows a user to perform a number of exercises using the one device. For example, a universal machine which allows a user to exercise and work multiple specific muscle groups for an effective full body workout. The downside with all of these types of equipment is the size and expense required to provide quality equipment.

Exercise racks have also been recently developed for use in working out with a weighted barbell. For example, exercise racks which include squat stands, squat racks, squat cages, power racks and rigs. These devices typically have a base with vertical supports extending upwardly from the base with some form of connecting structure supporting the upper portions of the vertical supports. To properly support the rack for use, the assembly needs to be secured to a wall surface. In some cases due to the span of the rack further wall studs need to be added to the wall. The addition of further wall studs exacerbates the problem of increasing the footprint of the device within the room especially when space is at a premium. The downfall of these types of devices is that they require a significant amount of space to operate effectively and are not capable of being compactly stored without disassembling them.

Some exercise equipment has been developed which fold up or can be dismantled to be relatively compact in that they take up little space and can be placed under one's bed when not in use. However such devices can require substantial time and effort to unfold for a workout and to fold again for storage. Likewise, the dismantled equipment can take significant time and effort to reconstruct the device for use. Some of these types of devices can be structurally unstable due to the components utilised to make the device compact. This can lead to possible injuries while exercising if the structural integrity becomes compromised. Also the design to make the exercise equipment compact typically means they can only be used to exercise one part of the body.

Also, some of the fold up type exercise machines are still not very compact and when in an upright storage position still occupy floor space which does not allow the design to fully accomplish the results for which they were intended.

Because of the inherent problems with the related art, there is a need for a new and improved exercise apparatus mounting system that helps to at least ameliorate some of the shortcomings described above. In particular, it would be beneficial to provide a retractable wall mounted system that may be easily and compactly stored when not in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect, the present invention provides a mounting system configured to fold an exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raise the exercise apparatus above a floor surface thereby storing the exercise apparatus, the mounting system comprising: at least one support system pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position, the at least one support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface, the support system comprising: a first mounting bracket fixed to a vertical framing member in the vertical wall; a support member having a first end spaced apart from a second end, the first end pivotally attached to the first mounting bracket; a second mounting bracket pivotally connected to the second end of the support member, the second mounting bracket being fixed to the exercise apparatus; and an actuator pivotally connected between the first mounting bracket and the support member, the actuator is adapted to be pivotally connected to the vertical wall through the first mounting bracket, and provide an upward biasing force to the support member to assist in lifting the exercise apparatus upwardly into the retracted position.

Preferably, the mounting system may comprise a pair of support systems spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface.

Alternatively, the mounting system may comprise two pairs of support systems comprising: a first pair spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for the vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface; and a second pair in the same positions spaced apart on the vertical wall but spaced apart vertically a distance above the first pair of support systems; wherein the first and second pairs are adapted to engage a vertical post member of the exercise apparatus.

Preferably, the support members may be substantially vertically orientated and substantially parallel to one another when in the retracted position. The support members may be substantially horizontally orientated and substantially parallel to one another when in the extended position.

Preferably, the support members may comprise an elongate tubular member with a pair of aligned apertures in the tubular member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members.

Alternatively, the support members may comprise an elongate rod member with a hole extending through and perpendicular to the elongate rod member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members.

Preferably, the first end of the support member may be pivotally connected to the first mounting bracket by a pin extending transversely through aligned apertures positioned in the first mounting bracket and the apertures or holes in the first end of the support member respectively.

Preferably, the second end of the support member may be pivotally connected to the second mounting bracket by a pin extending transversely through aligned apertures positioned in the second mounting bracket and the apertures or holes in the second end of the support member respectively. The pin may have a longitudinally axis extending along a shaft with a flange extending from one end and adjacent the opposite end an elongate hole formed in a direction perpendicular to the shaft for receiving a retaining clip therein, the pin allowing rotation of the connected parts about the longitudinally axis of the pin.

Alternatively, the support members may comprise an elongate tubular member with a pair of hinge members pivotally attached to the tubular member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members, or an elongate rod member with a pair of hinge members pivotally attached to the tubular member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members.

Preferably, the pivot pins or the hinge members may allow the support means connected to the first mounting bracket to rotate to be substantially vertically orientated adjacent to the vertical wall and substantially parallel to one another when in the retracted position and rotate to be substantially horizontally orientated and substantially parallel to one another when in the extended position.

Preferably, the pivot pins or the hinge members may allow the support means connected to the second mounting bracket to rotate to be substantially vertically orientated adjacent to the vertical wall with the exercise apparatus positioned adjacent to the support means when in the retracted position and rotate to be substantially horizontally orientated with the exercise apparatus positioned on the floor surface for use when in the extended position.

Preferably, the mounting system may further comprise a holding bracket adapted to be attached to the vertical wall above the at least one support system, the holding bracket being adapted to releasably attach to the exercise apparatus when the exercise apparatus is in the retracted position to prevent the exercise apparatus from moving out of the retracted position.

Preferably, the mounting system is adapted to allow the exercise apparatus to be interchangeable, the exercise apparatus may comprise any one or more of: i) a weightlifting bench press assembly; ii) a treadmill assembly; iii) a weightlifting rack assembly; iv) a rowing machine assembly; v) a stair steeper assembly; vi) a bench assembly; vii) a preacher curl bench assembly; viii) a pullup bar; ix) an abdominal rack; or x) an exercise station assembly.

Preferably, any one or more of the exercise apparatuses may have a vertical support assembly which has at least one horizontal member or at least one vertical member which is adapted to connect to the second mounting bracket or brackets of the support system to pivotally connect the exercise apparatus to the vertical wall.

Preferably, the weightlifting bench press assembly may comprise: a first vertical support assembly comprising: a first vertical leg spaced apart from and parallel to a second vertical leg, each vertical leg having a first free end and a ground engaging foot; at least one horizontal member extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs; a mounting assembly extending perpendicular from an upper surface of the horizontal member; an elongate bench means having a longitudinal axis for supporting a user's trunk and upper legs, the elongate bench means comprising: a frame with a first end pivotally connected to the mounting assembly of the first vertical support assembly, and a second free end; a first padded body support section connected to and extending from the first end of the frame, the first padded body support section for supporting the user's trunk; and a second padded body support section connected to the frame and extending from the first padded body section towards the second free end of the frame, the second padded body support section for supporting the user's upper legs; a second vertical support assembly comprises an elongate member having a first end pivotally attached adjacent to the second free end of the frame and a distal end attached to a T-shaped foot, the second vertical support assembly having an extended position and a retracted position, in the retracted position the second vertical support is juxtaposed with the frame and in the extended position is positioned with the elongate member extending away from the frame and the T-shaped foot on a floor surface; a weight support means connected to each first free end of the first and second vertical legs, the weight support means comprises an adjustable barbell holder for accommodating varying arm lengths of the user; and wherein the horizontal member of the first vertical support assembly has a surface connected to the second mounting bracket of the support system to pivotally connect the weightlifting bench press assembly to the vertical wall.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the weightlifting bench press assembly in the extended position the first and second vertical support assemblies may support the elongated bench means in an elevated position above the floor whereby the user is placed in a supine position and the user's lower legs may drape to the floor.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the weightlifting bench press assembly in the retracted position, the frame of the elongate bench means may be pivoted to extend substantially vertically above the horizontal member of the first vertical support assembly, the second vertical support is positioned to lie juxtaposed with the frame of the elongate bench means, and the first vertical support member is pivoted upwardly to raise the ground engaging feet of the first and second vertical legs and position the weightlifting bench press near or adjacent to the vertical wall with the first and second padded body support sections of the elongate bench means positioned to lie adjacent to and facing the vertical wall.

Preferably, the first padded body support section may have a first end pivotally attached to the frame for upward inclination, another end of the first padded body support has a member slideably mounted on the frame, as the member moves along the frame the first padded body support inclines upwardly, and a fastener selectively secures the member to fix the first padded body support section in place relative to the frame.

Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench may extend in a direction that is tangential to the vertical wall when the elongate bench is in the extended position. The longitudinal axis of the elongate bench may extend in a direction that is parallel to the vertical wall when the elongate bench is in the retracted position.

Preferably, the at least one horizontal member extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs, may further comprise at least one hinge means located between the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench and the first vertical leg and at least one hinge means located between the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench and the second vertical leg, each hinge means adapted to allow each vertical leg to fold inwards towards the longitudinal axis to further reduce the footprint of the weightlifting bench press in the stored or retracted position.

Preferably, each hinge means may comprise a first connector, a second connector and a pivot pin, the first connector moveable relative to the second connector around the pivot pin; and a lock configured to be positioned around the pivot pin to restrain movement of the first connector.

Preferably, the weightlifting rack assembly may comprise: a first vertical member and a second vertical member spaced from each other, the first vertical member and the second vertical member are substantially parallel to one another when in an extended position and a retracted position, each vertical member having a bottom end engaging a floor surface and a top free end spaced apart from the bottom end, each bottom end is pivotally connected to the first pair of support systems and each top end is pivotally connected to the second pair of support systems, the pair of support systems allows the weightlifting rack assembly and the first and second vertical members in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface; at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members; a first pair of cross arms pivotally connected to the first vertical member and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first cross arm pivotally connected adjacent to the bottom end of the first vertical member and a second cross arm pivotally connected adjacent the top free end of the first vertical member; a second pair of cross arms pivotally connected to the second vertical member and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first cross arm pivotally connected adjacent to the bottom end of the second vertical member and a second cross arm pivotally connected adjacent the top free end of the second vertical member; a third vertical member connected to the distal ends of the first pair of cross arms, the third vertical member has an end rotatably engaging with the floor surface to allow the first pair of cross arms and the third vertical member to be rotated between an extended position and a retracted position; a fourth vertical member connected to the distal ends of the second pair of cross arms, the fourth vertical member has an end rotatably engaging with the floor surface to allow the second pair of cross arms and the fourth vertical member to be rotated between an extended position and a retracted position; and wherein in the retracted position the third and fourth vertical members are rotated to be positioned adjacent to one another and the at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members.

Preferably, the weightlifting rack assembly may further comprise: a locking pin extending perpendicular through each proximal end of the first and second pairs of cross arms, the locking pin positioned to restrain movement of the cross arms; a plurality of first apertures in the first and second vertical members adapted to removably receive exercise accessory mounting brackets or pins; a plurality of second apertures in the third and fourth vertical members adapted to removably receive exercise accessory mounting brackets or pins; and a plurality of third apertures in the third and fourth vertical members adapted to removably receive exercise accessory mounting brackets or pins, the third apertures formed transversely to the second apertures.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the weightlifting rack assembly in the extended position the bottom end of the first and second vertical members may be positioned on the floor surface, the first and second pairs of cross arms and the third and fourth vertical members are moveable by pivoting between a folded configuration adjacent to the at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members and an articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the weightlifting rack assembly in the retracted position, the first and second pairs of cross arms and the third and fourth vertical members may be moveable by pivoting between an articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members to a folded configuration adjacent to the at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members, and the first and second vertical members are pivoted upwardly to raise the bottom end engaging the floor surface and position the weightlifting rack assembly near or adjacent to the vertical wall.

Preferably, the plurality of third apertures in the third and fourth vertical members may be adapted to removably receive a support bracket on each vertical member, the support brackets are configured to removably receive and support a barbell.

Preferably, the first, second, third and fourth vertical members may have approximately the same length and maintain a vertical orientation in all positions from the extended position to the retracted position, and the first and second pairs of cross arms each may have the same length.

Preferably, the preacher curl bench assembly may comprise: a first vertical support assembly comprising: a first vertical leg spaced apart from and parallel to a second vertical leg, each vertical leg having a first free end and a ground engaging foot; a horizontal member extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs; and a mounting assembly extending perpendicular from an upper surface of the horizontal member; an elongate bench means having a longitudinal axis for supporting a seated user, the elongate bench means comprising: a frame with a first end pivotally connected to the mounting assembly of the first vertical support assembly, and a second end with a pivotal mounting; and a padded seat connected to and extending from the first end of the frame, the padded seat for supporting the seated user; an angled frame assembly connected to the pivotal mounting on the second end of the frame of the elongate bench means, the angled frame assembly comprising: an adjustable padded arm rest for accommodating varying arm lengths of the user, the adjustable arm rest extending from a first end of the angled frame; and a weight support means pivotally connected to a floor engaging end of the angled frame assembly; and wherein the horizontal member of the first vertical support assembly has a surface connected to the second mounting bracket of the support system to pivotally connect the preacher curl bench assembly to the vertical wall.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the preacher curl bench assembly in the extended position the first vertical support assembly and the floor engaging end of the angled frame assembly may support the elongate bench means in an elevated position above the floor whereby the user is placed in a seated position and the user's lower legs are supported on the floor.

Preferably, when the mounting system places the preacher curl bench assembly in the retracted position, the frame of the elongate bench means may be pivoted to extend substantially vertically above the horizontal member of the first vertical support assembly, the angled frame assembly and the weight support means are rotated to be positioned adjacent to and parallel with the frame of the elongate bench, and the first vertical support assembly is pivoted upwardly to raise the ground engaging feet of the first and second vertical legs and position the preacher curl bench assembly near or adjacent to the vertical wall with the padded seat of the elongate bench means positioned to lie adjacent to and facing the vertical wall.

Preferably, the angled frame assembly and the weight support means, may further comprise a hinge means to allow the angled frame assembly and the weight support means to be rotated between the retracted position and be positioned adjacent to and parallel with the frame of the elongate bench and the extended position with the floor engaging end of the angled frame assembly positioned on the floor surface.

Preferably, the second connector of the angled frame assembly hinge may be fixed to the second end of the frame of the elongate bench means and the first connector pivotally connects the angled frame assembly. The second connector of the weight support means hinge may be fixed to the floor engaging end of the angled frame assembly and the first connector pivotally connects the weight support means.

Preferably, the hinge lock may be configured to allow the angled frame assembly and the weight support means to be positioned at any angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench means.

In accordance with a further aspect, the present invention provides an exercise apparatus configured to reduce the footprint of the exercise apparatus when stored by folding the exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raising the exercise apparatus above a floor surface, the exercise apparatus comprising: a mounting system with at least one support system pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position, the at least one support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface; and an exercise apparatus connection assembly which has at least one horizontal member or at least one vertical member which is adapted to connect to the mounting system to pivotally connect the exercise apparatus to the vertical wall.

Preferably, the at least one support system may comprise: a first mounting bracket fixed to a vertical framing member in the vertical wall; a support member having a first end spaced apart from a second end, the first end pivotally attached to the first mounting bracket; a second mounting bracket pivotally connected to the second end of the support member, the second mounting bracket being fixed to the exercise apparatus; and an actuator pivotally connected between the first mounting bracket and the support member, the actuator is adapted to be pivotally connected to the vertical wall through the first mounting bracket, and provide an upward biasing force to the support member to assist in lifting the exercise apparatus upwardly into the retracted position.

Preferably, the mounting system may comprise any one of: a pair of support systems spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface; or two pairs of support systems comprising: a first pair spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for the vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface; and a second pair in the same positions spaced apart on the vertical wall but spaced apart vertically a distance above the first pair of support systems; wherein the first and second pairs are adapted to engage a vertical post member of the exercise apparatus.

Preferably, the first end of the support member may be pivotally connected to the first mounting bracket by a pin extending transversely through aligned apertures positioned in the first mounting bracket and the apertures or holes in the first end of the support member respectively. The second end of the support member may be pivotally connected to the second mounting bracket by a pin extending transversely through aligned apertures positioned in the second mounting bracket and the apertures or holes in the second end of the support member respectively.

Preferably, the pin may have a longitudinally axis extending along a shaft with a flange extending from one end and adjacent the opposite end an elongate hole formed in a direction perpendicular to the shaft for receiving a retaining clip therein, the pin allowing rotation of the connected parts about the longitudinally axis of the pin.

Alternatively, the support members may comprise an elongate tubular member with a pair of hinge members pivotally attached to the tubular member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members or the support members may comprise an elongate rod member with a pair of hinge members pivotally attached to the tubular member and positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the support members.

Preferably, the pivot pins or the hinge members may allow the support means connected to the first mounting bracket to rotate to be substantially vertically orientated adjacent to the vertical wall and substantially parallel to one another when in the retracted position and rotate to be substantially horizontally orientated and substantially parallel to one another when in the extended position. The pivot pins or the hinge members may allow the support means connected to the second mounting bracket to rotate to be substantially vertically orientated adjacent to the vertical wall with the exercise apparatus positioned adjacent to the support means when in the retracted position and rotate to be substantially horizontally orientated with the exercise apparatus positioned on the floor surface for use when in the extended position.

Preferably, the exercise apparatus may comprises any one or more of: i) a weightlifting bench press assembly; ii) a treadmill assembly; iii) a weightlifting rack assembly; iv) a rowing machine assembly; v) a stair-steeper assembly; vi) a bench assembly; vii) a preacher curl bench assembly; or viii) an exercise station assembly.

Preferably, any one or more of the components of the exercise apparatus may be manufactured from a metal material or a plastics material.

Any one or more of the above embodiments or preferred features can be combined with any one or more of the above aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given hereinafter and from the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, which, however, should not be taken to be limitative to the invention, but are for explanation and understanding only. Fig. 1 shows an exploded schematic view of the exercise apparatus mounting system and some exemplary examples of the connection to exercise apparatus in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 shows a weightlifting bench press assembly in the extended position with the vertical wall removed for clarity; Figs. 3 and 4 show bottom and top views of the weightlifting bench press assembly of Fig. 2 and connected to the vertical wall; Figs. 5 and 6 show side and perspective views of the weightlifting bench press assembly of Fig. 2 in the retracted position against the wall; Figs. 7 and 8 show side and perspective views of the weightlifting bench press assembly of Fig. 2 just after it has been released from the retracted position against the wall; Figs. 9 and 10 show perspective and side views of the weightlifting bench press assembly of Fig. 2 in the extended position positioned on the floor surface; Fig. 11 illustrates a side view of the weightlifting bench press assembly of Fig. 2 showing the inclination of the first padded bench seat; Fig. 12 illustrates a further embodiment of the weightlifting bench press assembly with hinged first and second vertical legs; Figs. 13 and 14 show a preacher curl bench assembly in the extended and retracted positions connected to the mounting system in accordance with the present invention; and Figs. 15 to 17 show extended side and top views and a retracted side view of a weightlifting rack assembly connected to the mounting system in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description, given by way of example only, is described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

The present invention was designed to provide a mounting system 20 configured to fold an exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 against a vertical wall 10 and raise the exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 above a floor surface 12 thereby storing the exercise apparatus.

As illustrated in Fig. 1, the mounting system 20 has two support systems pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position. However in its broadest form the mounting system 20 consists of at least one support system pivotally mounted to a vertical wall 10. The support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall 10 when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface 12. The support system has a first mounting bracket 21 fixed to a vertical framing member 11 in the vertical wall 10 and a support member 30 having a first end 32 spaced apart from a second end 33. The first end 32 pivotally attached to the first mounting bracket 21 and the second mounting bracket 40 pivotally connected to the second end 33 of the support member 30. The second mounting bracket 40 is fixed to the exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120. An actuator 50 is pivotally connected between the first mounting bracket 21 and the support member 30 to pivotally connect the support member 30 to the vertical wall 10 through the first mounting bracket 21. The actuator 50 provides an upward biasing force to the support member 30 to assist in lifting the exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 upwardly into the retracted position.

The first mounting bracket 21 is fixed to the vertical stud 11 by fasteners (not shown). As illustrated in Fig. 1 a typical internal or external wall 10 has vertical studs 11 spaced evenly apart in the wall frame. By way of example only, timber studs 11 are evenly spaced along the wall 10 and typically 400/600mm apart. For aluminium studs 11 the spacing along the wall 10 may be different. The first mounting bracket 21 has a U-shaped body with two parallel arms 22 extending from a base 24. Aligned in each parallel arm 22 is an aperture 23 for receiving a pivot pin 44 therein. One of the parallel arms 22 positioned on the outer side of the first mounting bracket 21 has a tab 25 extending below the arm 22 for mounting an end of the actuator 50. The tab 25 has a mounting pin 26 for receiving the end 54 of the actuator 50.

The support member 30 as illustrated is an elongate rectangular rod 31 with a first end 32 and a second end 33. Alternatively, the support member 30 may be a rectangular elongate tube 31. The elongate rectangular rod 31 has two holes 34, 35 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rod 31. The first hole 34 is positioned adjacent to the second end 33 and the second hole 35 is positioned adjacent to the first end 32. To pivotally mount the first end 32 to the first mounting bracket 21 a cylindrical pin 44 is inserted through the aligned apertures 23 and hole 35. The cylindrical pin 44 has an enlarged first end which prevents the pin 44 from sliding through the aperture 23 in the parallel arm 22. On the opposing end of the pin 44, an aperture extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pin 44 to receive therein a fastener for securing the pin 44 in place in the first mounting bracket 21. Alternatively, the pivotal mounting of the first end 32 may be a pinch free hinge system (not shown).

The second mounting bracket 40 is fixed to an exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 to pivotally mount the second end 33 of the support member 30. The second mounting bracket 40 is a U-shaped bracket with a base 42 and a pair of parallel arms 41 extending from the base 42. Each parallel arm 41 has an aligned aperture 43 therein for receiving the pin 44 for pivotally securing the second end 33 of the support member 30. Likewise, to pivotally mount the second end 33 to the second mounting bracket 40 an identical pin 44 as described above is used. As above an alternative pivotal mounting system may be a pinch free mounting system.

An actuator 50 is mounted between the first mounting bracket 21 and the support member 30 to assist in raising and lowering the mounting system 20 between extended and retracted positions. An outer surface of the support member 30 has a mounting pin 36 for receiving the end 53 of the actuator 50. Each actuator 50 has a piston 52 which extends and retracts as the mounting system 20 moves between the extended and retracted positions.

The mounting system 20 can be used to pivotally mount a number of different exercise apparatus to a vertical wall 10. By way of example only, the exercise apparatus can include any one or more of a weightlifting bench press assembly 60, a treadmill 110 a preacher bench curl assembly 90, a weightlifting rack assembly 120, a rowing machine assembly, a stair-steeper assembly, a bench assembly, an exercise station assembly; or any combination thereof.

The mounting system 20 described above for pivotally mounting any one or more of the above exercise apparatuses has a vertical support assembly which has at least one horizontal member 72, 73 or at least one vertical member 61 which is adapted to connect to the second mounting bracket 40 or brackets 40 of the support system to pivotally connect the exercise apparatuses to the vertical wall 10.

Fig. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the mounting system 20 configured to fold an exercise apparatus 60 against a vertical wall 10 and raise that exercise apparatus 60 above a floor surface 12 to store the exercise apparatus 60. By folding and raising the exercise apparatus 60 the user can significantly reduce the footprint required by the exercise apparatus 60 especially when the equipment 60 is not in use. The first embodiment of the mounting system 20 is shown in use on a weightlifting bench press assembly 60, illustrated in the extended position with the vertical wall 10 removed for clarity.

The weightlifting bench press assembly 60 has a first vertical support assembly with a first vertical leg 61 spaced apart from and parallel to a second vertical leg 61. Each vertical leg 61 has a first free end for receiving the weight holding arms and a second end with ground engaging foot 62. The first vertical support assembly has an upper and a lower horizontal member 72, 73 extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs 61. To pivotally mount the elongate bench to the first vertical support assembly a mounting assembly 71 is fixed to the upper horizontal member 72. The mounting assembly 71 extends perpendicular from the upper surface of the upper horizontal member 72 and consists of a pair of vertical arms with an aligned aperture in each arm for receiving a pivot pin therein. The pivot pin allows the frame 74 of the elongate bench to be rotatably mounted to the mounting assembly 71. Mounted to the frame 74 are the first and second padded body supports 67, 68 of the elongate bench means which has a longitudinal axis extending along the frame 74. The first and second padded body supports 67, 68 are adapted to support a user's trunk and upper legs to the elongate bench means.

The elongate bench means has a frame member 74 with a first end pivotally connected to the mounting assembly 71 on the first vertical support assembly and a second free end. The first padded body support section 67 is connected to and extends from the first end of the frame 74 to support the user's trunk. A second padded body support section 68 is connected to the frame 74 and extends from the first padded body section 67 towards the second free end of the frame 74. The second padded body support section 68 supports the user's upper legs.

Also extending from the second free end of the frame 74 is the second vertical support assembly 69, 70. The second vertical support assembly consists of the elongate member 69 having a first end pivotally attached adjacent to the second free end of the frame 74 and a distal end attached to a T-shaped foot 70. The second vertical support assembly 69, 70 has an extended position and a retracted position. In the retracted position the second vertical support 69, 70 is juxtaposed with the frame 74 and in the extended position is positioned with the elongate member 69 extending away from the frame 74 and the T-shaped foot 70 positioned on the floor surface 12.

In the extended position the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 with the first and second vertical support assemblies supporting the elongate bench means in an elevated position above the floor 12 allows the user to exercise on the apparatus in a supine position with the user's lower legs allowed to drape to the floor 12. In this position, the first vertical support assembly has the ground engaging foot 62 of each vertical leg 61 positioned on the floor surface 12 and the second vertical support assembly the elongate member 69 is extended and the T-shaped foot 70 is positioned on the floor surface 12. With the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the extended position the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench extends in a direction that is tangential to the vertical wall 10.

A weight support means is connected to each first free end of the first and second vertical legs 61. The weight support means has an adjustable barbell holder 64 attached to a rectangular member 63 which is slideably received within the first free end of the first and second vertical legs 61. Each rectangular member 63 has a plurality of apertures 66 extending horizontally through the rectangular member 63 for receiving a fastener 65 to adjustably mount the barbell holder 64 at different heights to accommodate varying arm lengths of the user.

To allow the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 to move between the retracted and extended positions at least one mounting assembly 20 is attached to the upper horizontal member 72 of the first vertical support assembly. A surface of the upper horizontal member 72 which extends perpendicular from the top surface of the upper horizontal member 72 is connected to the second mounting bracket 40 of the support system to pivotally connect the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 to the vertical wall 10. As illustrated the mounting system 20 consists of two support systems mounted and spaced apart on the upper horizontal member 72.

Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate top and bottom views of the extended weightlifting bench press assembly 60 attached to the vertical wall 10 by the mounting system 20. Looking down from above the wall 10 the wall studs or frame members 11 are positioned and spaced apart as indicated by reference numeral A. As previously mentioned the studs 11 are spaced evenly apart in the wall frame for internal walls approximately 600mm apart and for external walls approximately 400mm apart. Fig. 3 shows the bottom view weightlifting bench press assembly 60. The first mounting brackets 21 of the mounting system 20 are secured to the vertical studs 11 in the wall 10 by fasteners. Likewise, the second mounting brackets 40 of the mounting system 20 are secured to the upper horizontal member 72 by fasteners 46, 47. As illustrated in Fig. 4 threaded mounting bolts 47 and nuts 46 secure the second mounting brackets 40 to the upper horizontal member 72. In order to accommodate for the different stud 11 spacing, the upper horizontal member 72 has multiple apertures in the horizontal member 72 which receive the fasteners 46, 47. This allows the position of the second mounting brackets 40 to correctly align with the first mounting brackets 21 no matter what stud 11 spacing is required.

Each end 32, 33 of the support member 30 is pivotally mounted to the first and second mounting brackets 21, 40 respectively. Pivot pins 44 rotatably mount each end 32, 33 of the support member 30 to allow the support member to rotate between the retracted and extended positions. The pivot pins 44 are secured in place by fasteners 45. Any known fastener can be utilised to secure the pivot pin 44, in this case, a split pin fastener 45 is used with a retaining ring attached for ease of use. To assist the support member 30 when moving from the extended position to the retracted position an actuator 50 is mounted to each support system in the mounting system 20. The actuator 50 is mounted between the first mounting bracket 21 and the support member 30 on each support system to assist in raising and lowering the mounting system 20.

Also illustrated in Fig. 3 is the bottom side of the bench assembly. The first padded body support section 67 is connected to and extends from the first end of the frame 74 to support the user's trunk. The first padded body support section 67 is mounted to a rectangular frame 83 extending around the lower edge of the first padded body support section 67. As will be described below in relation to Fig. 11, the first padded body support section 67 has a pivot mounting 75 at one end and a sliding mount 76 at the opposite end mounted to the frame 74. The pivot mounting 75 and the sliding mount 76 allow the first padded body support section 67 to be inclined with respect to the frame 74.

The second padded body support section 68 is connected to the frame 74 and extends from the first padded body section 67 towards the second free end of the frame 74. The second padded body support section 68 supports the user's upper legs. The second padded body support section 68 is mounted to a rectangular frame 82 extending around the lower edge of the second padded body support section 68 and the rectangular frame 82 is mounted to the frame 74.

Fig. 4 shows the top view of the bench assembly. Each vertical leg 61 has a weight support means slideably mounted within the vertical legs 61. Being positioned on opposite sides of the bench means the weight support means is used to support a bench press barbell in cradles or holders 64. A fastener 65 allows the height of each cradle 64 to be adjusted to suit the arm length of the user. Each rectangular member 63 has a plurality of apertures 66 extending horizontally through the rectangular member 63 for receiving the fastener 65 to adjustably mount the barbell holder 64 at different heights.

Figs. 5 and 6 show side and perspective views of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 and the mounting system 20 in the retracted position against the vertical wall 10. In this position the first and second padded body support sections 67, 68 are positioned to lie adjacent to and facing the vertical wall 10 with the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench extending in a direction that is parallel to the vertical wall 10. Also shown in Figs. 5 and 6 the second vertical support 69, 70 is juxtaposed with the frame 74. In this position, the support members 30, the first and second legs 61, the frame 74, the first and second padded body support sections 67, 68 and the second vertical support 69, 70 are all positioned to lie adjacent and running parallel to the vertical wall 10.

The mounting system 20 and the position of the first mounting bracket 21 on the vertical wall 10 ensures that in the retracted position the ground engaging foot 62 on each vertical leg 61 is raised a distance B above the floor surface 12. This is important especially when the floor surface 12 is being cleaned. Having the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 clear of the floor surface 12 ensures that the floor surface 12 can be easily cleaned.

To assist in retaining the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the retracted position against the wall 10 a holding bracket assembly 79 is placed on the vertical wall 10 above the mounting system 20. An L-shaped mounting bracket 80 is positioned on the wall 10 at the approximate height which the end of the second padded body support section 68 is positioned in the retracted positon. Extending from an end of the bracket 80 is a flexible retainer 81 which is adapted to releasably attach over the end of the second padded body support section 68 to hold and prevent the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 from moving out of the retracted position.

Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in an intermediate position between the extended and retracted positions. Figs. 7 and 8 show side and perspective views of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60, the mounting system 20 and the various components as positioned when transitioning from the extended to the retracted position. To place the components in the retracted position as illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6 the first step is to rotate the frame 74 around the pivot mount 71. This will place the elongate bench and the longitudinal axis of the bench in a position extending substantially perpendicular above the upper horizontal member 72 of the first vertical support assembly. The second vertical support 69, 70 is then rotated around the pivot mounting 77 to be positioned to lie juxtaposed with the frame 74 of the elongate bench means.

With the assistance of the actuators 50 on each support means of the mounting system 20, the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 and the first vertical support member is pivoted upwardly to raise the ground engaging feet 62 of the first and second vertical legs 61 off the floor surface 12 and move the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the direction of arrow C. As the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 transitions between the extended and retracted positions the mounting system 20 maintains the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in a substantially vertical orientation.

Figs. 9 and 10 show perspective and side views of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the extended position. With the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the extended position the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench extends in a direction that is tangential to the vertical wall 10. The ground engaging feet 62 of the first and second vertical legs 61 of the first vertical support member and the T-shaped foot 70 of the second vertical support member are positioned on the floor surface 12. The elongate bench means is supported in an elevated position above the floor 12 which allows the user to exercise on the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in a supine position with the user's lower legs allowed to drape to the floor 12.

Fig. 11 shows a side view of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 illustrating the inclination of the first padded section 67 with respect to the frame 74. The frame 74 is preferably constructed of square tubing but may also be constructed of rectangular tubing. The frame 74 is preferably tubular, but may be constructed of a solid material or a shaped material. Preferably, the frame 74 is constructed of a metal material sufficient in strength to provide support for a user positioned on the first and second padded sections 67, 68.

The frame 74 has a number of apertures 85 for receiving a fastener 86 to lock the first padded section 67 in the desired position. The first padded section 67 is pivotally connected at one end to the frame 74. A pivot member 75 is fixed between the frame 74 and the rectangular frame 83 extending around the bottom of the first padded section 67. This allows the bottom end of the first padded section 67 to rotate around the pivot member 75. A further arm 84 is positioned between the bottom of the first padded section 67 and a sliding mount 76 on the frame 74. A first end of the arm 84 is pivotally mounted to mount 87 on the bottom of the first padded section 67. The mount 87 is positioned approximately at a mid-point along the bottom of the first padded section 67 and centrally positioned and connected between the longer sides of the rectangular frame 83. As the sliding mount 76 moves along the frame 74 the arm 84 raises and lowers the first padded section 67 as indicated by the arrow D. As the sliding mount 76 moves along the frame member 74 and towards the first vertical support member the arm 84 is positioned to lie between the long sides of the rectangular frame 83 to allow the first padded section 67 to be positioned adjacent to the frame 74 and allow a user to lie flat on the bench assembly. As illustrated in Fig. 11 the first padded section 67 is positioned at an inclined angle of approximately 40 degrees with respect to the frame member 74. The first padded section 67 can be positioned at any angle between 0 and 90 degrees with respect to the frame member 74.

Also illustrated in Figs. 10 and 11 is the pivot mounting 77 for the second vertical support 69, 70. In its broadest form the pivot mounting 77 is simply a hinge with a stop which allows the vertical support 69 to be positioned extending from the frame 74 with the T-shaped foot 70 located on the floor surface 12. In other embodiments the pivot mounting 77 may include a locking pin which is adapted to selectively fix the vertical support 69 in different positions to accommodate non-flat floor surfaces 12.

As a further alternative, the T-shaped foot 70 of the second vertical support 69, 70 may be extendable from within the vertical support 69. This can allow the second end and the second padded section 68 to be raised and lowered to effectively place the bench press assembly 60 in a decline position.

Fig. 12 shows a top view of a further embodiment of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in which a portion of the first vertical support frame can be folded inwards towards the longitudinal axis to further reduce the footprint of the weightlifting bench press assembly 60 in the stored or retracted position. The upper and lower horizontal members 72, 73 extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs 61 have a hinge means 200 positioned to allow the first and second vertical legs 61 to fold. As illustrated the top horizontal member 72 includes a hinge 200 with a second connector attached to an end of the horizontal member 72 and a folding horizontal section 72a to which the first connector of the hinge 200 is fixed thereto. Likewise, the lower horizontal member 73 is configured in the same manner as the upper horizontal member 72.

A first pair of hinges 200 is positioned between the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench and the first vertical leg 61 and a second pair of hinge means 200 are located between the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench and the second vertical leg 61. Each hinge means 200 has a first connector, a second connector and a pivot pin, the first connector being moveable relative to the second connector around the pivot pin. A lock is also provided to restrain the movement of the first connector with respect to the second connector by locking the first connector to the pivot pin to restrain movement of the first connector. While a lockable hinge 200 has been described other similar devices which would perform the same task are not excluded from the present invention.

Figs. 13 and 14 show side views a further embodiment of an exercise apparatus 90 with the mounting system 20 in the extended and retracted positions. Fig. 13 shows the preacher curl bench assembly 90 in the extended position with the horizontal member 92 of the first vertical support assembly connected to the second mounting bracket 40 of the support system to pivotally connect the preacher curl bench assembly 90 to the vertical wall 10. The central longitudinal axis of the elongated bench extends in a direction that is tangential to the vertical wall 10 when the elongate bench is in the extended position. Like the bench press assembly 60 described above, the horizontal member 92 has multiple apertures in the horizontal member 92 which receive fasteners therein. This allows the position of the second mounting brackets 40 to correctly align with the first mounting brackets 21 no matter what stud 11 spacing is required.

The first vertical support assembly of the preacher curl bench assembly 90 has a first vertical leg 91 spaced apart from and parallel to a second vertical leg 91, each vertical leg 91 has a first free end and a ground engaging foot which is shown in contact with the floor surface 12. The horizontal member 92 extends perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs 91 and a mounting assembly 93 extends perpendicular from an upper surface of the horizontal member 92. The mounting assembly 93 pivotally connects the elongate bench and the frame member 94 to the first vertical support assembly.

The elongate bench means has a central longitudinal axis extending through the preacher curl bench assembly 90 and running parallel to the frame member 94. The frame member 94 has a first end pivotally connected to the mounting assembly 93 of the first vertical support assembly. The opposing end of the frame member 94 has a pivotal mounting 105 for connecting the angled elbow rest to the elongate bench means. The pivotal mounting 105 is a hinge 105 with a lever 106 for locking one of the first or second connectors of the hinge 105 to the pivot pin to restrain movement thereof. The frame member 94 has a padded seat 95 connected to and extending from the first end of the frame 94 for supporting the buttocks of a seated user.

The angled elbow rest provides support for the user's elbows when performing preacher curl exercises. The angled elbow rest has a first member with one end connected to the second connector of the hinge 105 and on the opposite side connected at an angle to the angled member 99. The angled member 99 has a first floor engaging end and a second open end for receiving therein the adjustable padded elbow rest 96. The fastener 98 allows the height of the padded elbow rest 96 to be varied up or down to accommodate varying arm lengths of the user.

The first floor engaging end of the angled member 99 also has a pivot mounting 105 for connecting a pair of spaced apart weight support means 100, 101 to the floor surface 12. The pivot mounting 105 allows the weight support arms 100 to be vertically positioned to receive a barbell within the barbell holders 101. Each support arm 100 and barbell holder 101 is positioned on opposite sides of the central longitudinal axis extending through the preacher curl bench assembly 90.

The mounting system 20 places the preacher curl bench assembly 90 in the extended position the first vertical support assembly and the floor engaging end of the angled frame assembly 99 supports the elongate bench means and the padded seat 95 in an elevated position above the floor surface 12. The user is placed in a seated position and the user's lower legs are supported on the floor surface 12.

The present invention has been designed so that a user may easily remove the bench press assembly 60 as described above from the mounting system 20 and replace it with the preacher curl bench assembly 90 or any other exercise apparatus.

Fig. 14 shows the preacher curl bench assembly 90 and the mounting system 20 in the retracted position against the vertical wall 10. In this position the padded seat 95 is positioned to lie adjacent to and facing the vertical wall 10 with the longitudinal axis of the elongate bench extending in a direction that is parallel to the vertical wall 10. Both hinge means 105 are adjusted to place the angled elbow rest and the weight support means 100, 101 to be vertically orientated and positioned adjacent to and parallel with the elongate bench.

The mounting system 20 and the position of the first mounting bracket 21 on the vertical wall 10 ensures that in the retracted position the ground engaging foot on each vertical leg 91 is raised a distance E above the floor surface 12. This is important especially when the floor surface 12 is being cleaned. Having the preacher curl bench assembly 90 clear of the floor surface 12 ensures that the floor surface 12 can be easily cleaned.

To place the preacher curl bench assembly 90 in the retracted position as illustrated in Fig. 14 the first step is to release the locks 106 on each hinge 105 to allow both the angled elbow rest and the weight support means 100, 101 to move as the elongate bench and the frame 94 rotate around the mounting assembly 93. This will place the elongate bench and the frame 94 of the bench in a position extending substantially perpendicular above the horizontal member 92 of the first vertical support assembly. The angled elbow rest and the weight support means 100, 101 are then rotated to lie substantially vertically and locked in this position by the locks 106. The angled elbow rest and the weight support means 100, 101 are positioned to lie juxtaposed with the frame 94 of the elongate bench means.

With the assistance of the actuators 50 on each support means of the mounting system 20, the preacher curl bench assembly 90 and the first vertical support member is pivoted upwardly to raise the ground engaging feet of the first and second vertical legs 91 off the floor surface 12 and move the preacher curl bench assembly 90 in the direction of the wall 10. As the preacher curl bench assembly 90 transitions between the extended and retracted positions the mounting system 20 maintains the preacher curl bench assembly 90 in a substantially vertical orientation.

The hinge means 105 allows the position of the angled frame assembly and the weight support means 100, 101 to be varied to suit the user when the preacher curl bench assembly 90 is placed in the extended position. The hinge lock 106 is configured to allow the angled frame assembly and the weight support means 100, 101 to be positioned at any angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elongated bench. By way of example only, each hinge means 105 comprises a first connector, a second connector and a pivot pin, the first connector moveable relative to the second connector around the pivot pin; and a lock 106 configured to be positioned around the pivot pin to restrain movement of the first connector. In this orientation, the second connector of the angled frame assembly hinge 105 is fixed to the second end of the frame 94 of the elongate bench means and the first connector pivotally connects the angled frame assembly. Alternatively, the hinge means 105 could be any form of spring loaded pins or spring loaded and threaded pins.

Figs. 15 to 17 show side and top views of a further embodiment of an exercise apparatus 120 with the mounting system 20 in the extended and retracted positions. Fig. 15 shows the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the extended position with the horizontal members 124, 126 extending between the first and second vertical support legs 121 and connected to the second mounting brackets 40 of the support system to pivotally connect the weightlifting rack assembly 120 to the vertical wall 10. Alternatively, the second mounting brackets 40 can be directly connected to the first and second vertical support legs 121. The weightlifting rack assembly 120 is used to support weights 161 for many weightlifting exercises, such as, for example, squatting and pressing. The weightlifting rack assemblies 120 can also be adapted for supporting the body of a user while performing body weight exercises such as, chin-ups, pullups and the like.

The weightlifting rack assembly 120 consists of two pairs of vertical support legs 121, 122, each vertical support leg 121, 122 having a bottom end engaging the floor surface 12 and a top free end spaced apart from the bottom end. Each pair of vertical support legs 121, 122 being positioned to be substantially parallel to and spaced apart from each other. Due to the size and construction of the weightlifting rack assembly 120, four mounting systems 20 or two pairs of mounting systems 20 are connected to the first and second vertical support legs 121 to move the weightlifting rack assembly 120 between the extended and retracted positions. A first pair of mounting systems 20 is connected to the first and second vertical support legs 121 in a position such that when the support member 30 of the mounting system 20 is in the extended position the bottom end of the first and second vertical support members 121 is placed on the floor surface 12. A second pair of mounting systems 20 is connected adjacent to the top end of the first and second vertical support legs 121. Each mounting system 20 is identical to the mounting system 20 described in Fig. 1. The support system of each mounting system 20 allows the weightlifting rack assembly 120 and the first and second vertical members 121 in the retracted position to be pivotally connected to the wall 10 and positioned clear of the floor surface 12.

Attached to each first and second vertical member 121 are the side rack assemblies 123 and the third and fourth vertical members 122. The combination of the first and second vertical members 121 attached to the third and fourth vertical members 122 by the side rack assemblies 123 forms the substantially rectangular formation of the weightlifting rack assembly 120. Attached to the first vertical member 121 is a pair of vertically spaced apart side rack assemblies 123. A first end of each pair of side rack assemblies 123 is pivotally mounted to the first vertical member 121. A second end of each pair of side rack assemblies 123 is fixedly mounted to the third vertical member 122. A first one of the pair of side rack assemblies 123 is mounted between the first vertical member 121 and the third vertical member 122 and adjacent to the bottom end of each vertical member 121, 122 and runs parallel with the floor surface 12 in the extended position. A second one of the pair of side rack assemblies 123 is mounted between the first vertical member 121 and the third vertical member 122 and adjacent the top free end of each vertical member 121, 122 and runs parallel with the first one of the pair of side rack assemblies 123.

An identical pair of vertically spaced apart side rack assemblies 123 is mounted between the second vertical member 121 and the fourth vertical member 122. Each side rack assembly 123 is identical in components and operation. The side rack assemblies 123 in combination with each third or fourth vertical member 122 form an assembly which is moveable by pivoting between a folded configuration adjacent to the first and second vertical members 121 and an articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members 121. As illustrated in Figs. 15 and 16 a total of four side rack assemblies 123 connect the first and second vertical members 121 to the third and fourth vertical members 122.

A mounting bracket 130, 131 rotatably mounts each side rack assembly 123 to the first and second vertical members 121. The mounting bracket consists of a U-shaped bracket 130 with a pair of parallel arms each arm having an aligned aperture for receiving a pin 131 therein. The base of the bracket 130 is fixed to a surface of the first and second vertical members 121 by fasteners. The pin 131 extends perpendicular through each aligned aperture in the parallel arms and through an aperture in the side rack assembly 123 to pivotally mount each side rack assembly 123 to the first and second vertical members 121. The pin 131 may also lock the position of the combined side rack assembly 123 with the third or fourth vertical member 122 in the folded configuration adjacent to the first and second vertical members 121 and an articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members 121 as described above.

To assist with the movement of the combined side rack assembly 123 with the third or fourth vertical member 122 between the folded and articulated configurations, the bottom end of the third and fourth vertical members 122 has a rotating assembly 135. A wheel or ball 136 is rotatably mounted by an axle 137 between a pair of flanges 137 extending from the bottom end of the third and fourth vertical members 122. The wheel or ball 136 rotatably engages with the floor surface 12 to facilitate the movement of the side rack assembly 123 with the third or fourth vertical member 122 between the folded and articulated configurations. Alternatively, the wheel or ball 136 may be replaced with a bearing or like rotating member.

Each first and second vertical member 121 has a plurality of apertures 125 extending through each of the first and second vertical members 121 to receive therein any removable exercise accessory mounting brackets or pins. For example, a storage peg 160 extends from a side of the first and/or second vertical member 121 for receiving and storing or stacking weight plates 161. Likewise, each third and fourth vertical member 122 has similar positioned apertures 132. The third and fourth vertical members 122 also have apertures 133 which are formed transversely to the apertures 132 in the third and fourth vertical members 122. The apertures 132, 133 can also be used to receive therein any removable exercise accessory mounting brackets or pins. For example, a barbell support bracket 150 can be mounted through the apertures 133 in and adapted to wrap around the third and fourth vertical members 122. The barbell support brackets 150 are configured to removably receive and support a barbell (not shown).

The barbell support brackets 150 may be comprised of various types of bar catchers such as, but not limited to, a J-cup or hook shaped bracket commonly utilised with conventional squat racks to removably receive and support the barbell. One barbell support bracket 150 is mounted extending from the forward facing surface of both the third and fourth vertical members 122. The support brackets 150 have a pin 153 that inserts into a selected aperture 133 at a selected height along the vertical support member 122 based on the height of the user and/or the type of exercise being performed. The front portion 152, 154 forms a hook structure that supports the barbell in a stationary position with respect to the third and fourth vertical members 122. Each barbell support bracket 150 has a further L-shaped structure 151 that extends around and behind the vertical support members 122 to retain and prevent accidental removal of the barbell support brackets 150 during an exercise.

As is also illustrated in Figs. 15 and 16, in order to provide further support for the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the extended position and especially to maintain the third and fourth vertical members 122 spaced apart at their top free ends a removable cross member assembly 140 is connected between the third and fourth vertical members 122. The cross member assembly 140 is also adapted to be used for a pull-up or chin-up exercise.

The cross member assembly 140 consists of a first cross member 144 extending between the upper portions of the third and fourth vertical members 122 with each end of the first cross member received within an aperture 132 in the third and fourth vertical members 122. A pair of brackets 142 are mounted to the outer upper portion of the third and fourth vertical members 122 and positioned at one end over the ends of the first cross member received within an aperture 132. The bottom end of the brackets 142 have a pin which is received and secured through an aperture 132 in each third and fourth vertical member 122. The brackets 142 are secured in place by a fastener 144 on each end of the first cross member 144 and by a fastener 143 through the pin extending through the aperture 132 in each third and fourth vertical member 122 at the bottom end of the brackets 142.

The brackets 142 are substantially A-shaped to provide support for a chin-up bar 141 extending between and located at a distal portion of the brackets 142. The chin-up bar 141, first cross member 144 and the mounting brackets 142 are adapted to ensure that the weight of the user can be safely supported while performing chin-up or pull-up exercises on the weightlifting rack assembly 120. The height of the chin-up bar 141 can be adjusted by securing the first cross member 144 and mounting brackets 142 to various heights along the third and fourth vertical support members 122.

In use, the mounting systems 20 place the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the extended position with the bottom end of the first and second vertical members 121 positioned on the floor surface 12. The first and second pairs of cross arms 123 and the third and fourth vertical members 122 are moveable by pivoting between a folded configuration adjacent to the at least one support bar 124, 126 extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members 121 and an articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members 121.

Fig. 17 shows the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the retracted position with the horizontal members 124, 126 extending between the first and second vertical support legs 121 and connected to the second mounting brackets 40 of the support system to pivotally connect the weightlifting rack assembly 120 to the vertical wall 10.

To place the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the retracted position as illustrated in Fig. 17 the first step is to remove the cross member assembly 140 from the top end of the third and fourth vertical members 122. The locking pins 131 in the pivotal brackets 130 are released to allow the rotation of the cross arms 123. The first pair of cross arms 123 and the third vertical member 122 are rotated from the articulated configuration distal from the first and second vertical members 121 to a folded configuration adjacent to the at least one support bar 124, 126 extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members 121. Likewise, the second pair of cross arms 123 and the fourth vertical member 122 is rotated in the same manner to the folded configuration.

At this point and before the mounting systems 20 raise the weightlifting rack assembly 120 to the stored position the weight plates 161 are removed from the pegs 160. This significantly reduces the overall weight of the weightlifting rack assembly 120.

With the assistance of the actuators 50 on each support means of the mounting system 20, the weightlifting rack assembly 120 and the first, second, third and fourth vertical support members 121, 122 are pivoted upwardly to raise the ground engaging ends of the first, second, third and fourth vertical legs 121, 122 off the floor surface 12 and move the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the direction of the wall 10. As the weightlifting rack assembly 120 transitions between the extended and retracted positions the mounting systems 20 maintain the weightlifting rack assembly 120 in a substantially vertical orientation. The bottom pair of mounting systems 20 and the position of the first mounting brackets 21 on the vertical wall 10 ensures that in the retracted position the ground engaging end of each vertical support leg 121, 122 is raised a distance F above the floor surface 12. This is important especially when the floor surface 12 is being cleaned. Having the weightlifting rack assembly 120 clear of the floor surface 12 ensures that the floor surface 12 can be easily cleaned without impediment. The weightlifting rack assembly 120 in the retracted position lies near or adjacent to the vertical wall 10.

As would be appreciated by the skilled person the and to facilitate the movement of the respective components, the first, second, third and fourth vertical members 121, 122 have approximately the same length and maintain a vertical orientation in all positions from the extended position to the retracted position, and the first and second pairs of cross arms 123 each have the same length.

Due to the size and construction of the weightlifting rack assembly 120, four mounting systems 20 or two pairs of mounting systems 20 are connected to the vertical wall 10. As each mounting system 20 requires a vertical framing member 11 in the vertical wall 10 for mounting the first mounting bracket 21, the overall width of the weightlifting rack assembly 120 is therefore dependent upon the spacing of the vertical studs 11 in the wall 10. As previously noted the studs 11 are evenly spaced along the wall 10 and typically 400/600 mm apart. By way of example only, a weightlifting rack assembly 120 mounted to an internal wall with stud spacing of 600 mm, would provide a weightlifting rack assembly 120 approximately 1.2 m wide.

As described above the mounting system 20 may comprise at least one support system. For example, the weightlifting bench press assembly preferably comprises two support assemblies for the mounting assembly 20. The weightlifting rack assembly comprises two mounting systems 20 with four support assemblies. Dependent upon the size and weight of the respective exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 determines how many mounting systems 20 are required.

As also describe above, the mounting system 20 has an actuator 50 pivotally connected to the support member 30 at a first end and pivotally connected to the wall 10 by at a second end by the first bracket 21. The actuator 50 applies an upward biasing force to the support member 30 to assist in lifting the attached exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 upwardly into the retracted position.

The actuator 50 is connected to the wall 10 in a manner offset from the pivot location of the support arms 30 as illustrated in Fig. 1. The actuator 50 is preferably pivotally connected to the wall 10 by the flange 25 extending below the first mounting bracket 21 at a pivot axis that is forward and downward from the pivot axis of the corresponding support member 30 pivotally connected to the wall 10 to provide an upward lifting force to the support member 30 throughout the entire range of positions. The pivot axis of the actuator 50 is preferably not concentric with the pivot axis of the support member 30. The actuator 50 is connected centrally to the support member 30 as shown in Fig.1.

As with all of the components of the mounting system 20, each exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 as illustrated can be constructed from any shaped tubing or from any shaped solid rod material. The tube or rod material is preferably constructed of a metal material sufficient in strength to provide support for the intended use and the weight of the respective user. Alternatively, the tube or rod material may be constructed from a plastics material with sufficient strength to provide support for the intended use and the weight of the respective user.

While the drawings typically show the exercise apparatus 60, 90, 110, 120 as using free weights, they can also be modified for pulley operation.

ADVANTAGES

The present invention was designed to provide a mounting system configured to fold an exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raise the exercise apparatus to a height above a floor surface thereby storing the exercise apparatus in as small a footprint as possible.

One advantage of the present invention is as noted above the smaller footprint allows the exercise apparatus to be installed in areas were space is at a premium, especially with the current trend moving towards smaller properties. The present invention allows people to convert living spaces or garage spaces into home gyms and when the exercise apparatus is not in use the present invention allows the apparatus to be easily stored against a wall and off the floor surface.

This also applies to gyms where smaller spaces are used or in some cases were a gym has multiple purposes. When apparatuses are not is use a gym floor can be used for aerobic classes or the like. To be able to easily move and store and exercise equipment vertically against a wall is an advantage which the present invention provides for commercial properties.

The present invention provides an exercise apparatus which can be easily folded against a wall and in most cases does not require any disassembly. The average person has a limited amount of free time and a limited budget to enjoy good health and adequately maintain physical fitness. To present invention provides a device for the home or office which can be transitioned from a stored or retracted position to an extended position quickly and easily.

The current invention is constructed from metal tube, pipe or rod to ensure that the exercise apparatus and mounting system are structurally stable and provide a device which can be folded and stored against a wall and above the floor surface. This ensures that most possible injuries while exercising which could be caused due to structural integrity is avoided.

VARIATIONS

It will be realized that the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example only and that all other modifications and variations as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein defined in the appended claims.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or step (or the like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer, component, or step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.

The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the scope of the above described invention.

In the specification the term "comprising" shall be understood to have a broad meaning similar to the term "including" and will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. This definition also applies to variations on the term "comprising" such as "comprise" and "comprises".

Claims

1. A mounting system configured to fold an exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raise the exercise apparatus above a floor surface thereby storing the exercise apparatus, the mounting system comprising: at least one support system pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position, the at least one support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface, the support system comprising: a first mounting bracket fixed to a vertical framing member in the vertical wall; a support member having a first end spaced apart from a second end, the first end pivotally attached to the first mounting bracket; a second mounting bracket pivotally connected to the second end of the support member, the second mounting bracket being fixed to the exercise apparatus; and an actuator pivotally connected between the first mounting bracket and the support member, the actuator is adapted to be pivotally connected to the vertical wall through the first mounting bracket, and provide an upward biasing force to the support member to assist in lifting the exercise apparatus upwardly into the retracted position.

2. A mounting system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting system is adapted to allow the exercise apparatus to be interchangeable, the exercise apparatus comprises any one or more of: i) a weightlifting bench press assembly; ii) a treadmill assembly; iii) a weightlifting rack assembly; iv) a rowing machine assembly; v) a stair-steeper assembly; vi) a bench assembly; vii) a preacher curl bench assembly; viii) a pullup bar; ix) an abdominal rack; or x) an exercise station assembly.

3. A mounting system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the weightlifting bench press assembly comprises: a first vertical support assembly comprising: a first vertical leg spaced apart from and parallel to a second vertical leg, each vertical leg having a first free end and a ground engaging foot; at least one horizontal member extending perpendicular between the first and second vertical legs; a mounting assembly extending perpendicular from an upper surface of the horizontal member; an elongate bench means having a longitudinal axis for supporting a user's trunk and upper legs, the elongate bench means comprising: a frame with a first end pivotally connected to the mounting assembly of the first vertical support assembly, and a second free end; a first padded body support section connected to and extending from the first end of the frame, the first padded body support section for supporting the user's trunk; and, a second padded body support section connected to the frame and extending from the first padded body section towards the second free end of the frame, the second padded body support section for supporting the user's upper legs; a second vertical support assembly comprises an elongate member having a first end pivotally attached adjacent to the second free end of the frame and a distal end attached to a T-shaped foot, the second vertical support assembly having an extended position and a retracted position, in the retracted position the second vertical support is juxtaposed with the frame and in the extended position is positioned with the elongate member extending away from the frame and the T-shaped foot on a floor surface; a weight support means connected to each first free end of the first and second vertical legs, the weight support means comprises an adjustable barbell holder for accommodating varying arm lengths of the user; and wherein the horizontal member of the first vertical support assembly has a surface connected to the second mounting bracket of the support system to pivotally connect the weightlifting bench press assembly to the vertical wall.

4. A mounting system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the weightlifting rack assembly comprises: a first vertical member and a second vertical member spaced from each other, the first vertical member and the second vertical member are substantially parallel to one another when in an extended position and a retracted position, each vertical member having a bottom end engaging a floor surface and a top free end spaced apart from the bottom end, each bottom end is pivotally connected to the first pair of support systems and each top end is pivotally connected to the second pair of support systems, the pair of support systems allows the weightlifting rack assembly and the first and second vertical members in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface; at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members; a first pair of cross arms pivotally connected to the first vertical member and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first cross arm pivotally connected adjacent to the bottom end of the first vertical member and a second cross arm pivotally connected adjacent the top free end of the first vertical member; a second pair of cross arms pivotally connected to the second vertical member and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first cross arm pivotally connected adjacent to the bottom end of the second vertical member and a second cross arm pivotally connected adjacent the top free end of the second vertical member; a third vertical member connected to the distal ends of the first pair of cross arms, the third vertical member has an end rotatably engaging with the floor surface to allow the first pair of cross arms and the third vertical member to be rotated between an extended position and a retracted position; a fourth vertical member connected to the distal ends of the second pair of cross arms, the fourth vertical member has an end rotatably engaging with the floor surface to allow the second pair of cross arms and the fourth vertical member to be rotated between an extended position and a retracted position; and wherein in the retracted position the third and fourth vertical members are rotated to be positioned adjacent to one another and the at least one support bar extending horizontally between the first and second vertical members.

5. An exercise apparatus configured to reduce the footprint of the exercise apparatus when stored by folding the exercise apparatus against a vertical wall and raising the exercise apparatus above a floor surface, the exercise apparatus comprising: a mounting system with at least one support system pivotally connected to have an extended position and a retracted position, the at least one support system is positioned near or adjacent to a vertical wall when in the retracted position and in the extended position is positioned substantially parallel to a floor surface; and an exercise apparatus connection assembly which has at least one horizontal member or at least one vertical member which is adapted to connect to the mounting system to pivotally connect the exercise apparatus to the vertical wall; and wherein the mounting system comprises any one of: a pair of support systems spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface; or two pairs of support systems comprising: a first pair spaced apart on the vertical wall a distance equating to the standard spacing on a wall for the vertical framing members and positioned at a height above the floor surface to allow the exercise apparatus in the retracted position to be positioned clear of the floor surface and when in the extended position the support members are positioned substantially parallel with the floor surface and a base portion of the exercise apparatus is positioned on the floor surface; and a second pair in the same positions spaced apart on the vertical wall but spaced apart vertically a distance above the first pair of support systems; wherein the first and second pairs are adapted to engage a vertical post member of the exercise apparatus.

11 20 50 51 23 22 10

52 53 21 11 24 22 23 21 33 32 22 41 35 35 25 26

42 34 30 31 31 54 41 33 43 44 1/14

40 41 36 53 52 42 50 34 30 40 43

90

110 FIG. 1