EP3124085B1 - Machine for training the hamstring muscles - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in particular to a machine for muscle exercises in particular for the hamstrings.

A preferred application relates to the sports industry and more particularly to the field of bodybuilding, evaluation and sports rehabilitation of the hamstrings.

BACKGROUND

For hamstring strength training there is eccentric Nordic exercise in this area.

Nordic eccentric exercise is widely used because of its ease of use. Indeed a person holds the ankles of a user positioned on their knees. The latter must then lower his bust to the ground with only resistance to his hamstrings. This solution, although easy to use, has many disadvantages. In particular the fact that the exercise can not be performed without assistance from another person and that it is impossible to reproduce exactly the same working conditions from one exercise to another. Thus, this exercise is unusable in a perspective of risk assessment of athletes and is intended rather for training. This exercise in the context of a reeducation can even be dangerous for the user because of the violence of the effort on previously damaged muscles.

Publication of the document US 4,776,587 (Iso-kinetic dynamometer device) overcomes some of these disadvantages by describing a fairly comprehensive bodybuilding, assessment and rehabilitation equipment. The user sits on the weight machine and these pegs are attached to an arm pivoting about a horizontal axis of rotation. The user must then raise the arm with his legs. A brake is present on the axis of rotation of the arm in order to operate a resistance.
A disadvantage is that US 4,776,587 is particularly bulky. This size requires a dedicated space for its use which limits its access to the greatest number and drastically increases its cost of use and maintenance.

The document US 6,387,024 B1 discloses a hamstring muscle exercise machine with the features of the preamble of claim 1.

The invention solves all or part of the disadvantages of current techniques.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

• ∘ ledit cadre de maintien comprenant au moins une partie inférieure, une partie supérieure et une pièce d'angle configurée pour rendre solidaire ladite partie inférieure et ladite partie supérieure en formant un angle α compris entre 180° et 60° entre lesdites deux parties inférieure et supérieure ;
• ∘ ladite partie inférieure étant montée en rotation sur le châssis autour du premier axe de rotation, ladite partie inférieure s'étendant entre le premier axe de rotation et la pièce d'angle ;
• ∘ ladite partie supérieure s'étendant depuis la pièce d'angle et étant configurée pour supporter la partie supérieure du corps de l'utilisateur ;

One aspect of the invention particularly relates to a user's hamstring muscle exercise machine comprising a frame and a knee support. The frame includes at least one obstruction of at least one peg configured to hold at least one peg of the user, the at least one hanger being attached to the frame. Advantageously, this machine is such that a system for assisting the descent of the user from an initial position, said descent assist system being articulated in rotation on the chassis to pivot about a first axis of rotation ; said descent assist system comprising a support frame:

• Said holding frame comprising at least a lower part, an upper part and a corner piece configured to make said lower part and said upper part integral forming an angle α lying between 180 ° and 60 ° between said two lower parts and superior;
• Said lower portion being rotatably mounted on the frame about the first axis of rotation, said lower portion extending between the first axis of rotation and the corner piece;
• Said upper portion extending from the corner piece and being configured to support the upper portion of the user's body;

Thus, rotation of the lower portion about the first axis of rotation causes rotation of the corner piece about the first axis of rotation.

This arrangement allows the user to work these hamstrings with hip flexion. In the context of the development of the present invention, it has been found that this flexion of the hips enables the exercise to be closer to the actual use of these muscles during the practice of a sport carried out by the users, for example football. In the context of the development of the present invention it has been observed with surprise that this approach to reality makes it possible to train, reeducate and evaluate the hamstrings much more effectively than existing solutions that do not offer hip flexion. The results observed are also much better than what was intended at the beginning of the development of the present invention.

According to one embodiment, the machine comprises the descent assistance system comprising a slowing device configured to slow the descent by tilting of the holding frame caused by the weight of the user. This slowing device allows the user to work safely and securely. to carry out progressive trainings. This feature of the invention allows on the one hand an accurate assessment of the capabilities of the user, and on the other hand a rehabilitation of the hamstrings in case of injury. The slowing device makes it possible to reproduce an exercise several times under the same conditions. This device also makes it possible to work at significant muscle lengths and at maximum and sub-maximal intensities.

• positionnement de l'utilisateur agenouillé sur le support de genoux ;
• Inclinaison de la partie supérieure du cadre de maintien afin de former un angle α de plus de 60° avec la partie inférieure ;
• positionnement de la hanche de l'utilisateur contre la pièce d'angle ;
• Inclinaison du corps de manière à former un angle β au niveau des hanches et à ce que la partie supérieure du corps de l'utilisateur prennent appui sur la partie supérieure du cadre ;
• basculement du cadre de maintien afin de rapprocher la partie supérieure du corps de l'utilisateur du le sol tout en conservant sensiblement l'angle β formé précédemment au niveau des hanches de l'utilisateur.

The invention also relates to a method of using the muscle exercise machine according to one of the preceding claims wherein the user performs the following steps:

• positioning the user kneeling on the knee support;
• Incline the upper part of the holding frame to form an angle α of more than 60 ° with the lower part;
• positioning the user's hip against the corner piece;
• Inclination of the body to form an angle β at the hips and that the upper body of the user rest on the upper part of the frame;
• tilting of the holding frame to bring the upper part of the body of the user of the ground while maintaining substantially the angle β previously formed at the hips of the user.

This configuration allows the user to exert effort on these hamstrings, while maintaining an angle β at the hip. This angle β allows the realization of a more effective training because closer to the reality of the use of said muscles.

BRIEF INTRODUCTION OF FIGURES

• la figure 1 montre un utilisateur en position initiale sur une machine selon un exemple de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 2 montre le basculement du système d'aide à la descente lors de l'utilisation de la machine illustrée en figure 1 ;
• la figure 3 montre une réalisation alternative de la machine par rapport aux figures 1 et 2 ;
• la figure 4 montre l'utilisation de la deuxième alternative de la machine illustrée en figure 3 avec une seule jambe ;
• la figure 5 montre une vue de dessus de la machine illustrée précédemment.
• La figure 6 montre une vue de côté d'une autre réalisation de la machine dans sa position initiale
• La figure 7 montre une vue de côté de la réalisation de la figure 6 après le basculement du cadre de maintien.
• La figure 8 est une vue en position initiale d'une réalisation alternative de la machine comprenant un élément de liaison entre la partie supérieure et le châssis
• La figure 9 est la même réalisation que la figure 8 lorsque la machine est dans sa position finale.
• La figure 10 est une vue d'une réalisation alternative comprenant un élément de liaison entre la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure.

Other characteristics, objects and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, and with reference to the appended drawings given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

• the figure 1 shows a user in initial position on a machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 2 shows the tilting of the descent assist system when using the machine illustrated in figure 1 ;
• the figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the machine compared to Figures 1 and 2 ;
• the figure 4 shows the use of the second alternative of the machine illustrated in figure 3 with one leg;
• the figure 5 shows a top view of the machine illustrated above.
• The figure 6 shows a side view of another embodiment of the machine in its initial position
• The figure 7 shows a side view of the realization of the figure 6 after tilting the holding frame.
• The figure 8 is a view in the initial position of an alternative embodiment of the machine comprising a connecting element between the upper part and the frame
• The figure 9 is the same realization that the figure 8 when the machine is in its final position.
• The figure 10 is a view of an alternative embodiment comprising a connecting element between the upper part and the lower part.

The drawings are given by way of examples and are not limiting of the invention. The different embodiments of these drawings can in particular be combined with each other to the extent of their compatibilities. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily at the scale of practical applications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

• la partie supérieure comprend un élément de maintien de la partie supérieure du corps de l'utilisateur.
• Le premier axe de rotation est de préférence horizontal.
• Selon un mode de réalisation, la machine est configurée de manière à conserver la valeur de l'angle α lors du pivotement du système d'aide à la descente en particulier autour du premier axe de rotation. La pièce d'angle ne fait donc pas varier l'angle α lors du pivotement du cadre de maintien en particulier autour du premier axe de rotation. Cet angle α reste donc constant lorsque la partie inférieure tourne autour du premier axe de rotation.
• Selon un mode de réalisation alternatif, la machine est configurée de manière à ce que l'angle α varie lors du pivotement du système d'aide à la descente en particulier autour du premier axe de rotation. La pièce d'angle fait donc varier l'angle α lors du pivotement du système d'aide à la descente en particulier autour du premier axe de rotation. Cet angle α varie, typiquement augmente, lorsque la partie inférieure tourne autour du premier axe de rotation en se rapprochant du sol, c'est-à-dire lorsque l'utilisateur bascule vers l'avant. A l'inverse, selon cet exemple de réalisation cet angle α diminue lorsque la partie inférieure tourne autour du premier axe de rotation en s'éloignant du sol, c'est-à-dire lorsque l'utilisateur remonte son buste.
• Selon un mode de réalisation, la machine comprend un élément de liaison, présentant deux extrémités. Une première extrémité est articulée en rotation autour d'un axe parallèle à celui du premier axe de rotation, de préférence par un pivot simple, sur l'une parmi la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure.
  Une deuxième extrémité est articulée en rotation autour d'un axe parallèle à celui du premier axe de rotation sur un coulisseau porté par l'autre parmi la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure. Le coulisseau est monté coulissant le long de l'autre parmi la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure, par exemple dans un rail porté l'autre parmi la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure. De préférence la première extrémité est montée en rotation sur la partie supérieure et la deuxième extrémité est articulée sur la partie inférieure.
• Un dispositif de blocage est configuré pour sélectivement bloquer ou autoriser le coulissement du coulisseau. Ainsi lorsque le coulisseau est bloqué l'angle α reste constant. Lorsque le coulisseau coulisse l'angle α peut varie. Par exemple le dispositif de blocage comprend une vis ou une goupille portée par le coulisseau et qui coopère, dans une position de blocage, avec le rail de guidage afin d'empêcher le coulissement du coulisseau. Dans une position de coulissement, la vis ou la goupille ne coopère pas avec le rail de guidage et n'empêche pas le coulissement du coulisseau.
  Cela permet d'avoir sur une même machine la possibilité de rendre l'angle α constant ou au contraire de le rendre variable.
• Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation, la première extrémité de l'élément de liaison est montée en rotation sur la partie supérieure et la deuxième extrémité de l'élément de liaison est montée en rotation sur le châssis.
  Ainsi la pièce d'angle est configurée pour rendre solidaire ladite partie inférieure et ladite partie supérieure en formant entre lesdites parties inférieure et supérieure un angle α qui reste fixe ou qui varie lors de la rotation du cadre de maintien autour du premier axe de rotation. Cette solidarisation n'implique pas forcément que lesdites parties inférieure et supérieure reste fixes l'une par rapport à l'autre.
• Une alternative à cette dernière réalisation consiste à avoir un rail sur la portion du châssis sur laquelle est montée la deuxième extrémité de l'élément de liaison. Dans cette réalisation la deuxième extrémité de l'élément de liaison est montée sur un coulisseau coulissant dans le rail du châssis. Cette configuration avantageuse permet notamment un réglage de la rotation maximale du cadre de maintien autour du premier axe de rotation.
• La machine est configurée de manière à ce que la pièce d'angle tourne autour du premier axe de rotation lors de la rotation de la partie inférieure autour du premier axe de rotation.
• La machine est configurée de manière à ce que la rotation de la partie inférieure autour du premier axe de rotation entraîne la rotation de la pièce d'angle autour du premier axe de rotation.
• La pièce d'angle est solidaire de ladite partie inférieure. De préférence la pièce d'angle est solidaire d'une extrémité de ladite partie inférieure qui est opposée à l'extrémité par laquelle partie inférieure est articulée autour du premier axe de rotation.
• La machine comprend un support de genoux configuré pour que les genoux de l'utilisateur prennent appui sur le support de genoux et le premier axe de rotation (10) soit à une distance du support de genoux inférieure à 20 10^-2 mètres.
• l'élément de maintien de la partie supérieure du corps de l'utilisateur est une zone d'appui destinée à prendre appui sur le thorax de l'utilisateur.
• la partie supérieure du cadre de maintien comprend une commande de freinage configurée pour interrompre la descente par basculement dudit cadre de maintien.
• la partie inférieure du cadre de maintien comprend un mécanisme de réglage de la distance entre ledit premier axe de rotation et la pièce d'angle.
• le système d'aide à la descente comprend un dispositif de ralentissement configuré pour ralentir la descente par basculement du cadre de maintien provoquée par le poids de l'utilisateur.
• le dispositif de ralentissement comprend un dispositif de réglage de la résistance à la descente par au basculement du cadre de maintien.
• le dispositif de ralentissement est articulé en rotation sur le châssis autour d'un deuxième axe de rotation parallèle au premier axe de rotation et différent du premier axe de rotation.
• le dispositif de ralentissement est articulé en rotation sur le châssis autour du premier axe de rotation.
• un dispositif d'aide à la remontée configuré pour générer une force permettant de contribuer à ramener l'utilisateur dans la position initiale.
• le dispositif d'aide à la remontée est identique au dispositif de ralentissement.
• le dispositif d'aide à la remontée et le dispositif de ralentissement comprennent un vérin commun.
• le dispositif de ralentissement comprend un vérin présentant une extrémité montée en rotation sur le châssis et une autre extrémité montée en rotation sur le cadre de maintien.
• Au moins une entrave d'au moins une cheville configurée pour maintenir au moins une cheville de l'utilisateur.
• La au moins une entrave est fixée au châssis. La au moins une entrave est fixe par rapport au châssis.
• La au moins une entrave est à distance du support de genoux, typiquement d'une distance correspondant à une longueur de tibia d'une personne de taille moyenne, typiquement mesurant entre 1.6 mètre et 1.8 mètre.
• la au moins une entrave de cheville est configurée pour maintenir au moins une cheville de l'utilisateur et dans laquelle la au moins une entrave de cheville est réglables pour qu'au moins un tibia de l'utilisateur soit parallèle à un plan horizontal ou à un plan incliné par rapport à l'horizontal d'un angle inférieur à 45°.
• des capteurs comprenant une unité de gestion, équipée d'au moins un microprocesseur et configurés pour enregistrer les forces exercées par les muscles ischio-jambiers de l'utilisateur en fonction de l'angle formé entre un élément fixe du châssis et un élément du système d'aide à la descente articulé en rotation sur le châssis.
• les capteurs sont configurés pour enregistrer les forces exercées par les muscles ischio-jambiers de l'utilisateur en fonction de l'angle formé entre l'horizontale et ladite partie inférieure du système d'aide à la descente.
• un appareil électronique configuré pour enregistrer, synthétiser et, de préférence visionner les données récoltées par les capteurs.
• des capteurs de l'effort développé par les muscles ischio-jambiers de l'utilisateur et un écran de visualisation configuré pour afficher une représentation visuelle dudit effort.
• ladite partie inférieure est articulée en rotation sur le châssis soit directement soit par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce intermédiaire entre le châssis ladite partie inférieure.

Before entering into detail of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings in particular, other optional features of the invention, which can be implemented in combination in any combination or alternatively, are indicated below:

• the upper portion comprises a holding member of the upper body of the user.
• The first axis of rotation is preferably horizontal.
• According to one embodiment, the machine is configured to maintain the value of the angle α during the pivoting of the descent assistance system, in particular around the first axis of rotation. The corner piece does not vary the angle α during pivoting of the holding frame in particular around the first axis of rotation. This angle α remains constant when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation.
• According to an alternative embodiment, the machine is configured so that the angle α varies during the pivoting of the descent assistance system, in particular around the first axis of rotation. The corner piece thus varies the angle α during pivoting of the descent assist system in particular around the first axis of rotation. This angle α varies, typically increases, when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation closer to the ground, that is to say when the user tilts forwards. Conversely, according to this embodiment, this angle α decreases when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation away from the ground, that is to say when the user goes back his bust.
• According to one embodiment, the machine comprises a connecting element having two ends. A first end is articulated in rotation about an axis parallel to that of the first axis of rotation, preferably by a simple pivot, on one of the upper part and the lower part.
  A second end is articulated in rotation about an axis parallel to that of the first axis of rotation on a slide carried by the other of the upper part and the lower part. The slider is slidably mounted along the other of the upper part and the lower part, for example in a rail carried the other one of the upper part and the lower part. Preferably the first end is rotatably mounted on the upper part and the second end is articulated on the lower part.
• A blocking device is configured to selectively block or allow the slider to slide. Thus when the slider is blocked the angle α remains constant. When the slider slides the angle α may vary. For example the locking device comprises a screw or pin carried by the slide and which cooperates, in a locking position, with the guide rail to prevent the sliding of the slide. In a sliding position, the screw or the pin does not cooperate with the guide rail and does not prevent the sliding of the slide.
  This makes it possible to have on the same machine the possibility of making the angle α constant or, on the contrary, of making it variable.
• According to yet another embodiment, the first end of the connecting element is rotatably mounted on the upper part and the second end of the connecting element is rotatably mounted on the frame.
  Thus, the corner piece is configured to make said lower part and said upper part integral by forming between said lower parts. and greater than an angle α which remains fixed or which varies during rotation of the holding frame around the first axis of rotation. This attachment does not necessarily imply that said lower and upper parts remain fixed relative to each other.
• An alternative to this latter embodiment is to have a rail on the portion of the frame on which is mounted the second end of the connecting element. In this embodiment the second end of the connecting element is mounted on a slider sliding in the chassis rail. This advantageous configuration allows in particular an adjustment of the maximum rotation of the holding frame around the first axis of rotation.
• The machine is configured so that the corner piece rotates about the first axis of rotation as the bottom portion rotates about the first axis of rotation.
• The machine is configured so that the rotation of the lower portion about the first axis of rotation causes rotation of the corner piece about the first axis of rotation.
• The corner piece is secured to said lower part. Preferably the corner piece is secured to an end of said lower portion which is opposite the end by which lower portion is articulated about the first axis of rotation.
• The machine includes a knee support configured to have the user's knees rest on the knee support and the first axis of rotation (10) at a distance from the knee support of less than 20 10 ^-2 meters.
• the holding member of the upper body of the user is a bearing zone intended to bear on the thorax of the user.
• the upper part of the holding frame comprises a braking command configured to interrupt the descent by tilting of said holding frame.
• the lower part of the holding frame comprises a mechanism for adjusting the distance between said first axis of rotation and the corner piece.
• the descent assist system includes a deceleration device configured to slow down the tilting descent of the holding frame caused by the weight of the user.
• the slowing device comprises a device for adjusting the resistance to the descent by tilting the holding frame.
• the slowing device is articulated in rotation on the chassis around a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation and different from the first axis of rotation.
• the slowing device is articulated in rotation on the chassis around the first axis of rotation.
• a lift assist device configured to generate a force to help bring the user back into the initial position.
• the device for assisting the ascent is identical to the slowing device.
• the lift assist device and the retarding device comprise a common cylinder.
• the slowing device comprises a jack having one end rotatably mounted on the frame and another end rotatably mounted on the holding frame.
• At least one obstruction of at least one peg configured to hold at least one peg of the user.
• The at least one obstacle is fixed to the chassis. The at least one obstacle is fixed relative to the chassis.
• The at least one restraint is remote from the knee support, typically a distance corresponding to a tibia length of a person of average height, typically measuring between 1.6 meters and 1.8 meters.
• the at least one peg restraint is configured to maintain at least one peg of the user and wherein the at least one peg restraint is adjustable so that at least one shin of the user is parallel to a horizontal plane or a plane inclined relative to the horizontal angle less than 45 °.
• sensors comprising a management unit, equipped with at least one microprocessor and configured to record the forces exerted by the hamstrings of the user according to the angle formed between a fixed element of the frame and a system element descent aid articulated in rotation on the chassis.
• the sensors are configured to record the forces exerted by the hamstrings of the user as a function of the angle formed between the horizontal and said lower part of the descent assist system.
• an electronic device configured to record, synthesize and, preferably, view the data collected by the sensors.
• sensors of the effort developed by the hamstrings of the user and a display screen configured to display a visual representation of said effort.
• said lower part is articulated in rotation on the frame either directly or via an intermediate piece between the frame said lower part.

For the rest of the description will be understood by "upper body" the part of the human body consisting of the bust that is to say the trunk, neck and head plus arms.

The longitudinal axis of the frame corresponds to its length, that is to say the axis comprising its largest dimension. A direction that extends parallel to this axis will be described as longitudinal in the following description.

A flexion of hips corresponds to an angle formed at the level of the user's hip between two axes. The first axis extending from the knee to the user's hip, the second axis extending from the hip to the user's neck.

By tilting, the pivoting of the holding frame in a direction adapted to bring it closer to the ground. This typically corresponds to a movement by which the user switches to the front.

The machine is intended for the training of the hamstrings, but also for the evaluation of said hamstrings to detect and prevent injuries. Another use of the machine relates to the reeducation of said hamstrings after an injury.

The use of the said machine may be bilateral or unilateral. When using the machine bilaterally, a simultaneous use of the two groups of hamstrings, that is to say the muscles of the two legs, is made. Conversely, when used unilaterally, only a group of hamstrings selected by the user will be solicited.

Said machine for exercising the hamstrings comprises at least one frame 1, said frame 1 comprising at least one ankle block 12, a knee support 2, a descent assist system 3 of the user and support legs 14. Said support legs 14 may advantageously be adjustable in height. The adjustment can be done in different ways. The preferred adjustment means are the presence of telescopic or retractable legs or the presence of cylinders of setting. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the height of the feet is individually adjustable. In other embodiments the feet are adjustable in groups. Foot adjustment is particularly important when using the machine. It is this setting that allows the user's head to not touch the floor when tipping forward.

The descent assist system 3 of the user preferably comprises a holding frame 4, a slowing device 5 and a first axis of rotation 10.

The first axis of rotation 10 is advantageously parallel to the axis formed by the two knees of the user. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the first axis of rotation coincides with the axis of the knees. In other embodiments, the first axis of rotation 10 is longitudinally offset vis-à-vis the axis of the knees. Advantageously, the first axis of rotation 10 is preferably in a zone of use. Preferably the area of use is a circle of radius R and centered on the axis of the knees of the user. Preferably the radius R is less than 60 centimeters (cm) (10 ^-2 meters) and preferably less than 40 cm and preferably less than 20 cm. In another embodiment, the area of use is less than 60 cm and preferably less than 40 cm and preferably less than 20 cm and preferably less than 10 cm from the knee support 2. Advantageously, the knees of the user are always positioned at the same place on the knee support 2. That is to say as close as possible to the holding frame 4 and more precisely the first axis of rotation 10. In all cases the directions of rotation of the two axes are similar.

In a preferred manner, the holding frame 4 comprises at least a lower part 7, an upper part 6 and an angle piece 8.

Thus, the lower portion 7 extends from the first axis of rotation 10 to the corner piece 8. This lower portion 7 comprises an adjustment mechanism 11. Said adjustment mechanism 11 advantageously allows the lower part 7 to be adjusted the axis formed by the femur of the user in the initial position. This setting allows in particular to position the corner piece 8, at the hip of the user and regardless of the size of said user. The lower portion 7 is also rotatably mounted on the first axis of rotation 10. Optionally, the lower portion 7 may comprise a thigh holding device 15 such as a strap. This device is intended to maintain the maintenance of thighs 15 against the lower part 7 when tilting the support frame 4 under the effect of the weight of the user.

The upper part 6 of the support frame 4 allows the support of the upper body of the user. Preferably, the upper part 6 comprises a chest support zone 13 of the user. Advantageously, the thorax bearing area 13 of the user is in a different plane of the support frame 4. Preferably, the thoracic support zone 13 is shifted towards the end of the frame not including the shackles of ankle 12. This advantageous characteristic allows the user to position himself in the support frame 4 and thus to have kinematic motion of his body when using the machine that is as close as possible to the kinematic movement of said machine. The chest support zone 13 allows the user to easily maintain a hip flexion without having his hands on the ground. In other embodiments of the invention, the upper part 6 of the invention does not comprise a chest support zone 13 but a holding bar. In this configuration, the upper part 6 forms for example a cross. The user grasps the branches of the cross with these hands and keeps a hip flexion. Said hip flexion must allow a user to have his axis "neck / hip" parallel to the upper part 6 of the support frame 4. The axis of the neck / hip is the axis that passes through the pelvis at hips and neck and which is perpendicular to the axis joining the two hips. When the user is standing, the neck / hip axis is substantially vertical. Without the chest support zone, this position is maintained by the user thanks to the strength of his arms. This embodiment thus provides an additional advantage for the user. Indeed, a work of the user's biceps and abdominals in addition to the work of the hamstrings must be performed by the user. In addition, this configuration makes it possible to lighten the weight of the machine.

In one embodiment of the invention, the bending of the user's hips is fixed during the rotation of the descent assisting system around the first axis of rotation. Indeed, in this embodiment, the user keeps the same hip flexion during the entire exercise.

In another embodiment of the invention, the user's hip flexion is variable. This achievement is even closer to the reality of the natural and real movement of the sportsman. Indeed, during a race the flexion of the athlete's hip is variable. In addition, this embodiment allows a bi-articular movement. Indeed, when using the machine, the knee or knees of a user are moving at the same time as the pelvis which allows a bi-articular work. The kinematics of the machine according to the invention thus makes it even more effective and enjoyable bodybuilding work.

The upper part 6 also comprises a braking control 9. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the braking control 9 is a joystick. This embodiment is not limiting and any other type of control is possible. Advantageously, the braking command 9 makes it possible to block the decelerating device 5. In another embodiment of the invention, not shown in the figures, the braking control 9 blocks a second cylinder that is independent of the deceleration device 5.

Advantageously, this braking command 9 offers optimum safety for the user. Indeed, in case of fatigue or effort too important for the user, the latter permanently has a means of blocking the machine. Preferably when the user exerts pressure on the handle, the brake control is deactivated. And when the user releases the pressure on the joystick, the brake control is activated. Thus, if for some reason the user loses control of the machine and releases its pressure on the handle, then its fall is interrupted by the brake control. The safety of the machine is reinforced.

Finally, the corner piece 8 allows the connection between the lower part 7 and the upper part 6. Advantageously, the corner piece 8 is secured to the lower part 7. Thus, as seen in FIGS. Figures 1 to 4 and 5 to 10 and more specifically in the figure 2 , the rotation of the corner piece 8 relative to the frame during use of the machine is according to the first axis of rotation 10. Indeed, the corner piece 8 and the lower portion 7 are preferably integral. Thus, the rotation of the lower part 7 around the first axis of rotation 10 causes the rotation of the corner piece 8 around the same first axis of rotation 10. This connection is preferably made by forming an angle α between the upper 6 and lower 7 advantageously between 180 ° and 60 ° and preferably. Advantageously, in one embodiment of the invention, the angle α does not vary during the use of the machine by a user. Thus the machine is configured to maintain the value of the angle α during the pivoting of the descent assist system in particular around the first axis of rotation. The corner piece does not vary the angle α during pivoting of the descent assist system in particular around the first axis of rotation. This angle α remains constant when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation.

This embodiment has the advantage of being able to work the hamstring muscles with a particular hips angle. This can be used in particular for a rehabilitation or a strengthening of the muscles according to a very precise inclination of the hips and thus to a precise type of movement.

In another embodiment of the invention, the corner piece 8 allows a variation of the angle a, preferably between 60 ° and 180 °, when using the machine by a user.

According to this alternative embodiment, the machine is configured so that the angle α varies during the pivoting of the descent assistance system, in particular around the first axis of rotation. This angle α varies, typically increases, when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation closer to the ground, that is to say when the user tilts forwards. Conversely, according to this embodiment, this angle α decreases when the lower part rotates about the first axis of rotation away from the ground, that is to say when the user goes back his bust.

This last embodiment is particularly advantageous. Indeed, this embodiment has the advantage of being the closest to the reality of a sports muscular effort. Thus, this exercise allows a better overall strengthening of the hamstrings muscles. Indeed, the more the training is close to the reality of the efforts of an athlete more this training is effective. The same goes for re-education.

It will be noted that it is possible to have on the same machine the possibility of rendering the angle α constant or, on the contrary, of making it variable. In fact, with an angle piece 8 that can be selectively fixed in order to maintain the angle α or on the contrary movable in order to vary said angle α during pivoting of the holding frame, the machine can adapt to a large number of exercises for hamstrings. An example of a machine having a fixed or movable angle α that can be adjusted is presented to the figure 10 . In this embodiment, if the user blocks the slider, then the angle α remains fixed during the switchover. If the slider is free to translate in the rail, then the angle α will be variable during the descent. In this figure a corner piston 17 is present. However, this angle piston 17 is not mandatory. Thus, the realization presented to the figure 10 may not have a corner plunger 17.

The angle α is 180 ° when the upper part 6 is fully extended and thus aligned with the lower part 7. The angle α is 0 ° when the upper part 6 is completely folded over the lower part 7. This angle α allows the user to work these hamstrings while maintaining in particular a flexion of hips forming an angle β preferably between 180 ° and 60 °. Advantageously, the angle α and the angle β are equal. This is advantageously the case when the thighs of the user are parallel to the lower part 7, that its hips are in contact with the corner piece and that his torso is substantially parallel to the upper piece 6. This hip flexion allows a hamstring effort similar to that of a sports activity. Thus, exercise is much more effective. Preferably the angle α is adjustable, for example to adapt to the morphology of the user. This adjustment can be made by inserting a pin or a screw into one of the holes 16. Each hole corresponds to an angle determining the angle α between the lower part 7 and the upper part 6 of the frame. In another embodiment of the invention, the adjustment of the corner piece 8 is made by a jack. This embodiment makes it possible in particular not to lock the angle α during the use of the machine. Advantageously, the jack can be electric and / or hydraulic. Advantageously, the cylinder can also maintain the angle α in a position during the descent to prevent the variation of the angle α during use. Other movement kinematics are of course possible.

Thus, for example, the angle α may be fixed on a portion of the pivoting of the holding frame 4 and variable on a second portion of the same pivot. Of course, a fully mechanical system is possible. In this embodiment, the cylinder is not electric or not present. For example in the achievements of Figures 8 to 10 , the angle cylinder 17 is not mandatory and can be removed.

For example one can provide a connecting element 21, having two ends. A first end 21a is articulated in rotation about an axis of rotation 24 parallel to that of the first axis of rotation 10, preferably by a simple pivot, on one of the upper part 6 and the lower part 7.

A second end 21b is articulated in rotation about an axis of rotation 26 parallel to that of the first axis of rotation 10 on a slide 23 carried by the other of the upper portion 6 and the lower portion 7. The slide 23 is mounted sliding along the other of the upper part 6 and the lower part 7, for example in a rail 22 carried the other of the upper part 6 and the lower part 7.

Preferably the first end 21a is rotatably mounted on the upper part 6 and the second end 21b is articulated on the lower part 7.

An example of this embodiment will now be described with reference to the figure 10 .

• en rotation et en translation à sa deuxième extrémité 21b dans ledit rail 22 de la partie inférieure 7 du cadre de maintien 4,
• en rotation à sa première extrémité 21a sur la partie supérieure 6 du cadre de maintien 4.

Thus in this figure the lower portion 7 comprises a rail 22 on its outer face, that is to say on its face not facing the user. In addition, the room angle 8 allows free rotation between the upper portion 6 and the lower portion 7. This free rotation thus allows a variation of the angle α.
In this embodiment, the connecting element 21 is mounted:

• in rotation and in translation at its second end 21b in said rail 22 of the lower part 7 of the holding frame 4,
• in rotation at its first end 21a on the upper part 6 of the holding frame 4.

Preferably the connecting element 21 is rigid.

A blocking device is configured to selectively block or allow the sliding of the slider 23. Thus, when the slider 23 is blocked, the angle α remains constant. When the slide 23 slides the angle α may vary. For example, the locking device comprises a screw or a pin carried by the slider 23 and which cooperates, in a locking position, with the guide rail 22 in order to prevent the slider 23 from sliding. In a sliding position, the screw or the pin does not cooperate with the guide rail 22 and does not prevent the sliding of the slide 23.

This makes it possible to have on the same machine the possibility of making the angle α constant or, on the contrary, of making it variable.

Thus, by immobilizing the rotation and the translation of the second end 21b of the connecting element 21, the angle α is thus locked. It is also possible that the rotation and translation of the second end 21b of the connecting element 21 are simply limited and not immobilized. In this configuration, the angle α may vary during the tilting of the holding frame 4.

In another embodiment of the invention similar to the embodiment described above, the at least one connecting element 21 is rotatably mounted at its second end 21b, not at the lower part 7, but at the frame 1. Advantageously, the attachment of the second end 21b of the connecting element 21 is done on a portion of the frame 1 having at its ends a vertical plane passing through the anchors 12 and a vertical plane passing through the first axis of rotation 10. Advantageously, this fixing is on the portion of the frame 1 as close as possible to the ground. In an alternative embodiment of this embodiment, the portion of the frame 1 on which is rotatably mounted the second end 21b of the connecting element 21 comprises a rail (not shown in the figures). In this case, the second end 21b is mounted on a slide (not shown on the figures) sliding in said rail. This configuration makes it possible in particular to adjust the maximum rotation of the first axis of rotation 10.

Advantageously, the connecting element 21 is a straight and rigid bar.

The slowing device 5 of the user advantageously makes it possible to slow down the fall of the user during his tilting forward. The slowing device 5 may for example be a jack. Said cylinder contracts during the fall of the user related to gravity. The resistance during compression of the piston inside the jack allows, in this embodiment, to slow down the fall of the user. The slowing device 5 is adjustable. Thus, depending on the effort desired by the user, said slowing device 5 offers a more or less significant drop resistance. The lower the resistance offered by the slowing device 5, the greater the effort required by the user to resist the fall of his weight will be important, and vice versa. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slowing device 5 is fixed at one of its ends to the lower part 7 and at its other end to the frame 1 ( Figures 1 and 2 ). In another embodiment of the invention said slowing device 5 is fixed at one of its ends to the frame 1 and at its other end to the upper part 6 ( figure 3 ). In these two configurations, the slowing device 5 pivots according to a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation 10. Other embodiments are possible to achieve a slowing down of the fall of the user. For example, a counterweight system may also be used.

In another embodiment of the invention, the slowing device 5 also comprises a jack but is also associated with other elements. In the figure 6 for example, the slowing device 5 is connected at one of its ends to a connecting device 18. Said connection is made in particular by means of a primary rotation axis 18a. The connecting device 18 advantageously comprises two substantially rectilinear moving parts interconnected by a secondary axis of rotation 18b. The second end of the connecting device 18 is preferably connected to the lower part 7 by virtue of a tertiary axis of rotation 18c. Advantageously in this embodiment, the slowing device 5 can be stationary relative to the chassis 1.

Advantageously, the primary 18a, secondary 18b and tertiary 18c rotation axes are parallel to each other and to the first axis of rotation 10. Advantageously, said primary and secondary rotation axes 18a and 18b are carried by the element 18. The tertiary axis of rotation 18c is for its part preferably carried by the lower part 7 of the holding frame 4.

Advantageously, a damping device 20 is positioned on the frame and serves to damp the contact between the connecting device 18 and the frame 1 during use of the machine. Advantageously, a damping device 20 may be an elastomer piece such as rubber and / or plastic and / or comprise a spring for example.

In addition, this slowing device 5 is essential in the context of a unilateral use of the machine. Indeed, if one wants to analyze or rehabilitate a single group of hamstrings muscles, a unilateral use of the machine may be appropriate. Nevertheless, without the slowing device 5, the user should fight against his weight by the sole force of a single group of hamstrings. This is often impossible. Thus, the slowing device 5 limits the weight of the user so that this exercise is feasible and without risk.

Optionally, the slowing device 5 also includes a device for assisting the ascent. This device allows the application of a force of direction contrary to the force of gravity. This force makes it possible to help the user to go back to his initial position after tilting forwards. This assisting movement can, for example, be achieved during the relaxation of the piston inside the cylinder.

In other embodiments of the invention, the device for assisting the ascent of the user is a device different from the slowing device 5.

This device can be triggered automatically (automatic user feedback at the end of the switchover) or by a manual command.

The knee support 2 is advantageously made of a foam so as not to injure the user. Other materials can of course be used.

The machine includes at least one anchor lock 12. This configuration allows the user to operate the machine without the assistance of a third party. Indeed, in order to tilt the bust forward, his ankles must be maintained. These impediments may for example be straps, but still two rigid bars parallel and substantially horizontal between which the user has his ankles or a hook in which the user positions his ankles.

According to one possibility, the hindrances of the pins are adjustable along two axes. The first adjustable axis of the shackles allows the shins of the user to be substantially parallel to the plane in which the frame 1 is contained. The second axis is adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the frame 1. This adjustment allows the machine to adapt to different user sizes, including user shin sizes.

In the case of bilateral use, both ankles are shackled. When used unilaterally, only one peg is maintained. Thus, only the leg whose ankle is held will perform the exercise.

According to another possibility, it is the knee supports and the descent assist system 3 that are adjustable in order to adapt to the size of the shins of the user. To do this they are movable along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame 1.

Finally, different sensors are present on the machine. These sensors aim to collect data according to the effort of the user. Thus, the sensors are configured to record the strength of the hamstrings of the user, the angles made by at least one knee, the angle β made by the hips etc. The data can then be analyzed, synthesized and viewed on a screen.

Advantageously the machine is equipped with a screen, not shown in the figures. This information makes it possible to have a return of the exercise carried out and also to have a database allowing an evaluation of the capacities of the user. These data make it possible, for example, to detect the risks of injury linked to a sporting activity.

Advantageously, the holding frame 4 is configured to move from an initial position to a final position. In the initial position, the lower part 7 of the holding frame 4 forms an angle with the frame 1 preferably between 60 ° and 120 ° and preferably between 60 ° and 90 ° and preferably 70 ° with the knee support 2 Preferably, in the final position, the lower portion 7 of the holding frame 4 forms an angle with the frame 1 preferably between 170 ° and 180 ° and preferably 180 °. Thus, the rotation of the lower part 7 and, by extension, the corner piece 8 and the upper part 6 (ie the whole of the holding frame 4) around the first axis of rotation 10 is between 60 ° and 180 ° . During a preferred use of the machine, the user will rest his knees on the knee support 2 provided for this purpose. The user will then hinder his or her ankles depending on the type of exercise he wants. He will then bring his pelvis at the corner piece 8. Always depending on the desired exercise, the user will tilt the upper portion 6 of the support frame 4 thanks in particular to the corner piece 8. This inclination of the upper part 6 advantageously corresponds to the angle α. Then, said user will support his chest on the chest support area 13. Once in position the support frame 4 will swing forward under the effect of the weight of the user. Advantageously, at the end of the tilting of the support frame 4, the lower part 7 forms with the knee support 2 an angle of between 180 ° and 160 ° and preferably 180 °. Preferably, the angle α is maintained during all the tilting of the holding frame 4. In another embodiment of the invention, the angle α varies at least on a portion of the tilting of the holding frame 4. Thus, in the initial position of the holding frame 4, the angle α is between 60 ° and 180 ° and preferably between 70 ° and 110 ° and preferably 90 °. In this embodiment, the angle α has a value at the end of the tilting of the holding frame 4 between 160 ° and 180 ° and preferably 180 °. The resistance to the fall of the user is then achieved by his hamstrings muscles. In order to limit the effort, the slowing device 5 will limit the weight of the user during the descent. If a device for assisting the ascent is present, then the latter will help the user to find his initial position. It is understood that the more the deceleration device is set to generate a force opposing the weight of the user, the more the effort that the user will have to provide will be reduced. Conversely, if the slowing device 5 does not oppose any resistance to the weight of the user then the effort of the user is maximum.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above but extends to all embodiments within the scope of the claims.

REFERENCES

1.

Frame

2.

Knee support

3.

Downhill help system

4.

Holding frame

5.

Slowing device

6.

The top part

7.

Lower part

8.

Corner piece

9.

Braking control

10.

First axis of rotation

11.

Adjustment mechanism

12.

Ankle obstruction

13.

Chest support area

14.

Support feet

15.

Maintaining thighs

16.

holes

17.

Corner cylinder

18.

Connecting device

18a.

Main rotation axis

18b.

Secondary rotation axis

18c.

Tertiary rotation axis.

19.

Sensor

20.

Damping device

21.

Connecting element

21a.

First end

21b

Second end

22.

Rail

23.

slide

24.

Rotation axis

25.

Rotation axis

26.

Rotation axis

Claims (15)

1. A user's hamstring muscle exertion machine comprising a frame (1) and a knee support (2); the frame (1) comprising at least one restraint (12) of at least one ankle configured to hold at least one of the user's ankles, the at least one restraint being fixed to the frame (1);
   said machine comprising a descent aid system (3) for the user from an initial position, said descent aid system (3) being articulated in rotation on the frame (1) to pivot in a first rotation axis (10);
   said descent aid system (3) comprising a support frame (4):

   o said support frame (4) comprising at least a lower portion (7), an upper portion (6) and a corner piece (8) configured to bind said lower portion (7) and said upper portion (6) integral forming an angle α between 180° and 60° between said two lower and upper portions;

   o said lower portion (7) being rotatably mounted on the frame (1) around the first rotation axis (10), said lower portion (7) extending between the first rotation axis (10) and the corner piece (8);

   o said upper portion (6) extending from the corner piece (8) and being configured to support the upper portion of the user's body;

   said machine being characterized in that the rotation of said lower portion (7) about the first rotation axis (10) causes rotation of said corner piece (8) about the first rotation axis (10). 2
2. Machine according to Claim 1 in which the element holding the upper part of the user's body is a support zone configured to bear on the user's thorax (13) .
3. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims in which the upper portion (6) of the holding frame (4) comprises a brake control (9) configured to interrupt the swinging descent from said holding frame (4) .
4. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims in which the lower portion (7) of the holding frame (4) comprises a mechanism (11) for adjusting the distance between said first rotation axis (10) and the corner piece (8).
5. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a speed limiting device (5) configured to slow down the descent by the pivoting of the holding frame (4) caused by the user's weight.
6. Machine according to the preceding claim in which the slowdown device (5) comprises a device for adjusting the resistance to the descent by swinging of the holding frame (4).
7. Machine according to any one of the two preceding claims in which the slowdown device (5) is articulated in rotation on the frame (1) about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis (10) and different from the first rotation axis (10).
8. Machine according to any one of the three claims in which the slowdown device (5) is hinged in rotation on the frame (1) about the first rotation axis (10) .
9. Machine according to one of the preceding claims comprising an ascent aid device configured to generate a force to help bring the user back to the initial position.
10. Machine according to the preceding claim in combination with one of claims 5 to 8 in which the ascent aid device and the slowdown device (5) comprise a shared cylinder.
11. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims in which at least one ankle restraint (12) is adjustable such that at least one of the user's shins is parallel to a horizontal plane or to an inclined plane at an angle of less than 45° with respect to the horizontal.
12. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims comprising sensors that have a management unit, equipped with at least one microprocessor and configured to record the forces exerted by the user's hamstrings based on the angle formed between a fixed element of the frame (1) and a descent aid system element (3) rotatably hinged on the frame (1).
13. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the machine is configured in order to maintain the value of the angle α when pivoting the holding frame (4).
14. Machine according to any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the machine is configured to cause a change in the value of the angle α when pivoting the holding frame (4).
15. The method of using the muscle exercise machine according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the user goes through the following steps:

    - Positioning the user kneeling on the knee support (2);

    - Inclining the upper portion (6) of the holding frame (4) to form an angle α of more than 60° with the lower portion (7);

    - Positioning the user's hip against the corner piece (8);

    - Inclining the body so as to form an angle β at the hips and such that the upper portion of the user's body rests on the upper part (6) of the frame;

    - Pivoting the holding frame (4) around the first rotation axis (10) in order to bring the upper portion of the user's body to the ground while substantially maintaining the angle β previously formed at the user's hips.

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