GB2382035A

GB2382035A - Exercise swing

Info

Publication number: GB2382035A
Application number: GB0127680A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Wilson Christian Pierre
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2001-11-19
Filing date: 2001-11-19
Publication date: 2003-05-21
Anticipated expiration: 2021-11-19
Also published as: GB0127680D0; GB2382035B

Abstract

An exercise device for exercising and toning a user's lower limb muscles and, in preferred embodiments, the arm muscles also, by movement of the user's own body mass. The device has a horizontal support 10 supported above ground by vertical support 11. Torso support bars 21 are mounted at one end for angular rotation around the horizontal support 10, and the buttocks support 58, 59 is mounted at their other ends. In operation the user initially sits on seat 58 secured by safety straps. Foot support bars 12, 12a are mounted at one end for angular rotation around horizontal support 10, and are provided with foot retention means 60, 66, 67 at their other end. The foot support bars are further provided with braking means 14, 17, 22 adapted to clutch the horizontal support 10 by operating levers 16, 16a with the hands. The user pushes against an immobilised foot support 60, causing reciprocal movement of the user's torso. By exercising each leg in turn and in succession, the user may travel 360 degrees around the horizontal support 10 while exercising. Alternatively, by allowing free rotation of all the support bars from a desired height, the user is rewarded with swinging motion.

Description

EXERCISE DEVICE The present invention relates to personal exercise devices for the purpose of the exercising and toning of the lower limbs (e. g. leg muscles). And in particular, though not exclusively, to devices wherein the user utilizes the movements of his or her own body mass, generally against the forces of gravity, in order to exercise.

Amusements swings, i. e. a device consisting of a suspended buttocks support (or seat) on which one oscillates backward and forward, have been in existence for a long time. While they provide relaxatiorvexhilaration they generally require the assistance of a third party to provide the user with a push (or pull) in order to achieve satisfactory swinging motion. The user himself or herself requires minimum exertions during the process.

The present invention seeks to provide an exercising swing, i. e. an exercise device which provides an exercising function based principally on the movements of the user's own body mass around a horizontal axis. Devices according to the invention permits the exercising and toning of the leg muscles, with optional swinging (back and forth) motion during the exercises if desired, and at least in preferred embodiments the arms muscles are also exercised.

The present invention provides exercise device comprising : substantially horizontal support means, the horizontal support means being transversely disposed and being supported above ground by generally vertical support means; support bars, the support bars being rotatably mounted at, or near, one end to the horizontal support means in a manner so as to permit their angular rotation and with their lengths substantially perpendicular to the horizontal support means, and the support bars being provided at least one for the user's torso and at least one support bar for each foot-buttocks support means, the buttocks support means being attached to the torso support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means; and foot retention means adapted to engage and retain the user's feet, the foot retention means being provided one for each foot and are mounted to each foot support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means, and each foot support bar is further provided with braking means attached thereof, the braking means being adapted to substantially engage the horizontal support means in a manner so as to immobilize the foot support bar, in operation the user initially sits on the buttocks support means with his or her torso generally parallel with the torso support bar and has each foot held by each foot retention means, and starting with his or her rightlleft leg initially in a flexed (knee bent) position the user then operates the braking means thereby immobilizing the foot support bar, and by

exercising the leg muscles from a flexed position towards an extended position, the action of pushing against the immobilized foot support bar causing the reciprocal movement of the user's torso, thus providing lower limbs exercises.

While pushing against the foot support bar with one foot, the user simultaneously flexes his or her other leg in order to repeat the process of extending one leg towards an immobilized foot support bar, while simultaneously flexing the other leg in readiness, so that exercising each leg in succession causing the angular displacement of the user about the horizontal support means towards a desired height. Whereupon the user retraces his or her steps in reverse order towards the ground, by operating the braking means and supporting himself or herself using the foot support bars, whereafter the process may be repeated as often as desired.

Optionally, upon reaching a desired height while exercising and by allowing all the support bars to rotate (or pivot) freely, i. e. by releasing all braking means, the user is rewarded with a swinging (back and forth) motion, if desired.

The device of the invention also permits the exercising of the lower limbs muscles by a flexing

action of the leg muscles. In operation, instead of initially flexing her or his leg the user initially extends his or her riotaeft leg forward then operates the braking means in order to exercise the leg from an extended position towards a flexed (knee bent) position thus causing the reciprocal movement of his or her torso forward, while simultaneously extending the other leg in anticipation of the next push. And as previously described, the user exercises each leg alternately and in succession and has the same option of swinging motion towards the ground if desired.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, bracing means (e. g. straps and/or body harness ) may be provided in order to support and releasably secure the user to the torso support bar as this would allow the user the option to travel through an angle of 360 degrees around the horizontal support means, i. e. about a horizontal axis, while exercising. The purpose of this is to provide more scope for the user while using the device, as this would have the enhancing effect of varying the level of exertions required by the user as the angles of displacement around the horizontal support means change, thus providing opportunities for the user to progress towards more vigorous exercises if desired.

The straps and/or body harnesses may be used in combination and are preferably adjustable by the user and with means for releasably securing (by user). In some embodiments,

in addition to the straps/body-hamess more rigid, or semi-rigid, means may be provided to further support and secure the user to the torso support bar. Which may consist of adjustable shoulder braces for example, mounted to the torso support bar and shaped to generally conform to a user's shoulder shape for example. And are preferably adjustable by user and with means for releasably securing (which user operates).

The device of the invention provides versatile exercises for the lower limbs. Moreover, in particularly preferred embodiments the user operates the braking means using his or her hands (as will be explained with accompanying illustrations) thus concomitantly providing exercises for the upper limbs and shoulder muscles also. And by combining upper limbs exercises with lower limbs exercises in co-ordination, the back and hip muscles are also exercised and toned as an added benefit to the user.

The invention will hereinafter be described in more detail by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying illustrations in which: Figure 1 is a back view of a preferred embodiment of device according to the invention ( with a user in partial view); Figure 2 and Figure 2A are partial back view showing more detail, in perspective, of the braking means of the device of the figure 1 illustration (illustrated with cut away sections) ; Figure 3 is a side view (right hand side according to user's point of view) illustrating in close up detail the braking means of the figure 1 or figure 2A illustration for example (with cut away sections and some components removed to show detail) ; Figure 4 is a partial plan view, looking down and with cut away sections, to show more detail of the braking means of the figure 1 or figure 3 illustration for example ; Figure 5 is a front elevation, partial view, of the braking means of the device of the figure 1 illustration) ; Figure 6 and figure 6A are partial side views illustrating the operation of the braking means of the figure 1 or figure 3 illustration for example; Figure 7 is a side view illustrating a modification to the device of the figure 1 illustration ;

Figure 8, Figure 8A and Figure 8B are side views with a user illustrating the operation of the device ; Figure 9 is a partial back view, in perspective, illustrating a further embodiment of the braking means of the invention; Figure 10 is a side view illustrating a modification to the braking means of the figure 9 illustration ; Figure 11 and Figure 11 A are partial back view showing in close up detail the operation of the braking means of the figure 9 or figure 10 illustration for example ; Figure 12 is a back view in perspective illustrating a preferred embodiment of bracing means; Figure 13 and Figure 14 are side views illustrating a preferred embodiment of foot retention means; Figure 15 is a plan view of the foot retention means as illustrated in figure 14 for example ; and Figure 16 is a side view (either side) illustrating a modification to the vertical support means of the figure 1 illustration for example.

The device illustrated in figure 1 consists of the support beam 10. Support beam 10 is mounted so as to be substantially horizontal and supported above ground at (or near) both ends at the apices of the vertical support bars 11. The support bars 11 are arranged in pair so as to form a triangle or A-frame for example. And each pair is provided with strengthening bar 36 attached transversely (figure 8) towards their bases for example, for stability.

The preferred material of construction is metal (e. g. steel) or any other material with sufficient mechanical strength.

The torso support bars 21 are provided as a pair for strength and stability and are arranged parallel to each other. The buttocks support bar 59 is attached transversely to support bars 21 at (or near) their ends so as to form a rectangular frame for example. At (or near) their other ends, the torso support bars 21 are rotatably mounted perpendicular to the horizontal support

beam 10 via their wheels 15 and are mounted for angular rotation about a horizontal axis, i. e. around the support 10. The wheels 15 are rotatably mounted to horizontal support 10 so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis, preferably on ball bearing means (not illustrated).

The soft cushioning seat 58, attached to the top of 59, is provided for the user's comfort and is preferably constructed of soft materials such as foamed plastics materials for example, or any other material with suitable elastic properties.

The foot support bars (12 and 12a) are provided as a pair for strength and stability , arranged in parallel, for each foot and are preferably approximately the same length as the torso support bars 21. And for convenience of description will be described for one foot only as an example.

The foot plate spindle 23 is mounted perpendicular to foot support bars 12 and 12a, between their sides, at (or near) one end. At (or near) their other ends the foot support bars 12 and 12a are rotatably mounted perpendicular to horizontal support beam 10 for angular rotation around horizontal support beam 10 via their wheels 15. The wheels 15 are rotatably mounted to horizontal support 10 so as to rotate about a horizontal axis, preferably on ball bearing means (not illustrated).

In construction, each foot support bar (12,12a) are formed with extended parts (12b) length wise beyond wheels 15 in order to provide mounting supports for the brake components.

The braking means for each pair of foot support bars (i. e. for each foot) consists of the braking components 14 and 14a, arranged between the sides of 12 and 12a, and with one on either side of horizontal support 10, as in figure 2 for example. Components 14 and 14a are generally formed with a semi-circular (concave) portion towards their centre, whereon are affixed the friction pads 24. The friction pads 24 are disposed next to horizontal support 10, as in figure 3 for example.

At (or near) one end, braking components 14 and 14a are rotatably mounted for angular rotation towards horizontal support beam 10 via their spindles 17 and 17a. Spindles 17 and 17a are mounted perpendicular to the extension parts (12b) of support bars 12 and 12a, between their sides and at (or near) their ends opposite horizontal support 10. Spindles 17 and 17a are arranged parallel to each other, and towards the front and back of support bars 12 and 12a, thus components 14 and 14a are mounted to rotate towards each other, i. e. towards horizontal support beam 10.

Brake arms 25 and 25a are disposed perpendicularly to brake components 14 and 14a, with one on each of their sides, and towards their ends opposite spindles 17 and 17a. Brake arms 25 and 25a are attached parallel to each other via the bolt 28 transversely through their slits 30 towards one end. Spacer collar 26 (shown more clearly in figure 4) is mounted to bolt 28 between the sides of 25 and 25a so as to maintain their required parallel configuration. The slits 30 allow sliding adjustments of spacer collar 26, for example towards the back of braking component 14, before tightly securing tightening nut 27 (in construction).

Braking components 25 and 25a are mounted to component 14 via the retaining pin 29 through the slits 30. At (or near) their ends opposite their slits 30, components 25 and 25a are rotatably mounted to brake spindle 20. Brake spindle 20 is rotatably mounted perpendicular to foot support bars 12 and 12a (as in fig. 5 for example).

Brake block 31 is attached to spindle 20 and is arranged with its longer side parallel to the front of braking component 14a, with brake in neutral (friction less) position, as in figure 3 for example. Means may be provided to conveniently keep/return brakes in neutral position to allow free rotation of support bars as required by user. Which may consists of an arrangement of springs for example (not illustrated).

Though in operation the pads 24 can adequately engage and clutch the horizontal support 10 , in order to immobilize the foot support bars, a friction cylinder (22) is preferred for better grip.

Each friction cylinder 22 is attached to horizontal support beam 10 between the friction pads 24 , as in figure 3 for example.

In order to operate the braking means levers (16 and 16a) are provided, which the user operates using his or her hands and is thus concomitantly provided with upper limbs and shoulder exercises. And though only a singular lever may be provided for each braking means, it is much preferred that (at least) two levers are provided for each braking means.

The purpose of this is to allow the user to operate the braking means by a pushing action on the levers as well as a pulling action on the levers as required, as will be explained later.

The levers 16 and 16a are attached perpendicular to the spindle 20 towards its end adjacent support bar 12a for the right hand (and adjacent 12 for the left hand) and are disposed oriented towards the user (as in figure 8 for example) for convenience of operation. Hand grips 19 and 19a are attached perpendicular to levers 16 and 16a respectively, for example towards their ends.

In operation, in order to immobilize the foot support bars the user either pushes the lever 16 forward towards foot support 12a, for example, so that the brake block 31 rotating against brake component 14a causing components 14 and 14a to converge towards each other via brake arms 25 and 25a, thus causing friction pads 24 to engage and clutch friction cylinder 22, as in figure 6 for example.

Alternately, the user pulls lever 16a towards her or him, so that the other extremity of component 31 rotating against component 14a equally causing pads 24 to engage and clutch friction cylinder 22, as in figure 6A for example, thereby immobilizing the foot support bars with a pulling action on lever 16a.

In some embodiments, a modification permits the torso and foot support bars to be of any length desired. As illustrated in figure 7, the levers 16 and 16a are instead attached to additional brake spindle 18 in a similar manner as that described for attaching to spindle 20.

Additional spindle 18 is rotatably mounted perpendicular to support bars 12 and 12a at approximately head height of an average user (as in figure 8 for example).

Furthermore, crank arm 33 is attached perpendicular to spindle 18 (at one end) and is disposed perpendicularly to foot support bar 12a, for example, towards the front of the device, with brake in neutral (frictionless) position. Similarly, crank arm 32 is attached perpendicular to brake spindle 20 at one end. At their other ends, crank arms 32 and 33 are linked by transmission arm 35 at pin joints 34, thus allowing the procedure for operating the device of the figure 7 illustration to be the same as those for operating the device of the figure 1 illustration.

In order to exercise, the user initially sits on the buttocks support 58 (with his or her torso generally parallel to the torso support bars 21 and secured by the bracing means, and with each foot held by each foot retention means) and has the option of beginning the exercises either with an extending (pushing) action of the leg muscles or by a flexing (pulling) action on the leg muscles.

In order to start with a pushing action, for example, the user initially flexes his or her right leg, for example, towards him or her (as in figure 8 for example) then pushes lever 16 (via hand grip 19) forward towards support bar 12a, thus immobilizing the foot support bars, next the user extends his or her leg forward from a flexed (knee bent) position towards an extended (straight) position thus causing the reciprocal movement of the user's torso. And while

while extending the right leg, the user simultaneously flexes his or her left leg (this is illustrated in fig. 8A) in anticipation of exercising the left leg by following the steps described for exercising the right leg, i. e. while extending the the rightlleft leg the user flexes the other leg in readiness. So that exercising each leg in turn causing the angular displacement of the user about horizontal support beam 10 upwards to a desired height.

Whereupon, potentially, the user has the option of allowing all the support bars to swing freely towards the ground. Alternately the user retraces his or her steps in reverse order towards the ground one step at a time using the braking means and the foot support bars whereafter the process may be repeated if desired.

And in order to exercise with a flexing (pulling) action of the leg muscles, the user initially extends his or her right leg, for example, then operates the braking means by a pulling action on the lever 16a via hand grip 19a for example (this is illustrated in fig. 8B). Next the user flexes his or her leg from an extended position towards a flexed (knee bent) position, thus pulling his or her torso forward. And while flexinglexercising one leg the user simultaneously extends the other leg in order to repeat the process of exercising each leg in turn (as described above for exercising with an extending action for example).

And while exercising, the user can travel through an angle of 360 degrees around the horizontal support 10 in order to progress towards more challenging exercises for example, if desired. Moreover, the arms and shoulder muscles exercises can be further enhanced by combining pushing/pulling with the hands on the levers 16/16a to displace his or her torso, with relaxing the leg muscles. And by co-ordinating upper limbs and lower limbs exercises, the user's back muscles are also exercised and toned, thus improving agility as an added benefit to the user.

Referring to figure 9, in other embodiments of the invention, instead of a friction cylinder (22) a friction disc (44) may be provided. For each foot, the friction disc 44 is attached to horizontal support beam 10, and is disposed between each pair of foot support bars (12 and 12a).

And instead of brake spindle 20, brake spindles 40 and 40a are provided and are rotatably mounted perpendicular to foot support bars 12 and 12a and to their extension parts (12b) respectively. Brake spindles 40 and 40a are arranged parallel to each other and to horizontal support 10, and are formed with (helical) threaded portions 43 and 43a, and 43b and 43c

respectively. At about way along half their length, brake blocks 42 and 42a, and brake blocks 42b and 42c, are formed with threaded holes to accommodate (engage) the treaded portions 43 and 43a, and threaded portions 43b and 43c, of brake spindles 40 and 40a respectively.

Brake blocks 42 and 42a are arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to spindle 40, with one on either side of friction disc 44. Brake blocks 42b and 42c are similarly mounted to spindle 40a on the side of horizontal support 10, as in figure 11 or figure 11 A for example.

At (or near) their ends adjacent disc 44, brake blocks 42 and 42a, and brake blocks 42b and 42c, are provided with further threaded holes to accommodate the bolts 45 and 45a respectively.

The friction pads 47 and 47a are affixed to bolts 45 and 45a respectively, at their ends adjacent disc 44 (fig. 11 or fig. 11 A for example). (The preferred material of construction for the friction pads 47/47a, and the friction pads 24 (e. g. fig. 3) is rubber or synthetic rubber for example, or any other material having suitable resilience and deformable properties).

The bolts 45145a allow adjustment of pads 47/47a, for example towards disc 44 (in construction) and tightening nuts 46/46a tightly secure bolts 45/45a to the brake blocks.

Guide rails 41 and 41 a are attached perpendicular to foot support bars 12 and 12a, and to their extension parts (12b), respectively. And provide sideways sliding supports for brake blocks 42 and 42a, and 42b and 42c, respectively.

Coupler arm 35a permits both spindles 40 and 40a to rotate simultaneously via crank arms 48 and 49 (mounted at pin joints 39 at one end). At its other end, crank arm 49 is attached perpendicular to spindle 40 towards the front of support bar 12a for example, and is disposed perpendicularly to foot support bar 12a (for the right hand side of device for example) with brake in neutral (frictiontess) position. And crank arm 48 is attached to spindle 40a in a similar manner.

The levers 16 and 16a are attached to brake spindle 40 in the same manner as that described for attaching to spindle 20 or spindle 18 for example.

In operation, in order to immobilize the foot support bars, the user rotates the levers 16/16a forward/backward so that the rotation of the threaded brake spindles 40 and 40a causing the

sideways motions of brake blocks 42 and 42a, and brake blocks 42b and 42c (generally in

opposite direction). And as the threaded portions 43 and 43b are oppositely oriented to threaded portions 43a and 43c, the brake blocks 42 and 42b move in opposite direction to brake blocks 42a and 42c.

This is illustrated In figure 11 and figure 11 A. In figure 11 the lever 16 is rotated forward towards support bar 12a thus causing friction pads 47 to engage disc 44 pincer wise thereby immobilizing the foot support bars, while brake blocks 42b and 42c move in opposite direction, i. e. away from disc 44. And in figure 11A, the lever 16a is rotated backward (towards user) thus causing the friction pads 47a to engage disc 44 pincer wise, while 42 and 42a move in opposite direction.

To exercise, the procedure for operating the device of the figure 9 illustration are the same as those described for operating the devices of the figure 1 or figure 7 illustration for example.

In further embodiments, the coupler arm 35a can be extended in a modification allowing the torso and foot support bars to be of any length desired. As illustrated in figure 10, an additional brake spindle 18a is rotatably mounted perpendicular to support bars 12 and 12a, at approximately head level of an average user for example. And crank arm 33a is attached perpendicular to spindle 18a at its end adjacent 12a and is disposed perpendicularly to 12a (or 12 for the left hand side) with brake in neutral position.

In construction arm 35a is extended lengthways towards 33a to which it is rotatably mounted via pin 34a. In such embodiments, the levers 16 and 16a are attached to additional spindle 18a in the same manner as that described for attaching to spindle 20 or spindle a, for example. Thus, the procedure for operating the device of the figure 10 illustration are the same as those described for operating the devices of the figure 1 or figure 7 illustration for example.

A preferred embodiment of bracing means, as illustrated in figure 12 for example, consists of a framework (50) of support bars, arranged and affixed perpendicularly to each other.

The support bars 51 are formed with rings 51 a at their sides and are thus slideably mounted to torso support bars 21 (illustrated as round in cross section in fig. 12). The sliding action allowing adjustments to be made (by user) according to user's body size for example.

The central support 52 is disposed parallel to the user's back, and for the user's comfort is

formed with a head rest 52a. shoulder support bars 53 are affixed parallel to each other and transversely to support bars 51, and With one either side of central support 52, as in figure 12 for example. Furthermore, support bars 53 are formed with curved portions 53a towards one end, shaped to accommodate, generally conformably, the user's shoulders.

Means for releasably securing the frame work (50) consists of the tubular components 54 which are affixed to rings 51 a, to their sides and over a hole. The purpose of the hole is to allow retaining rods 55 to insert into the holes 56, provided at the sides of torso support bars 21. The rods 55 are inserted transversely to support bars 21, and several holes 56 are provided in order to allow adjustments (by user) according to user's body size, for example by sliding framework (50), with rods 55 disengaged from holes 56.

Means are provided (e. g. springs) and are mounted within the tubular components 54 (not illustrated) in order to secure the rods 55 towards holes 56 in operation. To release the framework (50), the user pulls the rods 55 (via finger grips 57 for example) outwards.

The preferred material of construction for the framework (50) is light metal (e. g. aluminium), or any other materials (such as moulded plastics materials for example) with sufficient mechanical strength. And if preferred, the framework (50) may be provided with softer outer coverings of materials such as foamed plastics material for example, for the user's comfort.

And in addition to the framework (50), further means may be provided (e. g. straps (not illustrated)) to further (releasably) secure the user's waist/hips to the torso support bars and/or the buttocks support, and are preferably adjustable by the user.

A preferred embodiment of foot retention means, as illustrated in figure 14 for example, consists of the foot plate 60 (for each foot). The foot plate 60 is rotatably mounted to foot plate spindle 23, between the sides of 12 and 12a. The rotating action allowing the user to exercise his or her ankles while using the device, for example by flexing the ankles.

Ankle support arms 62 and 63 are rotatably mounted to the side of foot plate 60, via their spindles 70 mounted to the foot plate, and are mounted to pivot towards the user's ankle, thus allowing adjustments (by user) according to user's foot size for example.

The ankle retention bars 67 and 67a are mounted perpendicular through support arms 62 and 63 respectively, as in figure 15 for example.

Means for releasably securing consists of retaining rod 61, which (at one end) is attached perpendicular to retention bar 67a at (or near) its end opposite the foot plate. Towards its other end, each rod 61 has a threaded portion 61 a which is slideably mounted through retention bar 67 at (or near) its end opposite the foot plate. A tightening nut 68, mounted to the threaded portion 61 a, secures support arms 62 and 63 towards each other, for example the user turns nut 68 so that ankle retention bars 67 and 67a engage and retain the user's foot to the foot plate 60.

To release his or her foot, the user turns nut 68 (e. g. counter-clockwise). And for the user's convenience, the spring 72 (fig. 15 only) is mounted to rod 61 so as to exert forces towards 67 and 67a, thus forcing 67 and 67a apart to allow user to remove/place his or her foot in the foot retention means (fig. 13 for example).

In some embodiments, the toe/top-of-the-foot retention bar 67b can be added to further secure the user's foot to the foot plate, thus providing a firmer grip for the user's comfort.

Retention bar 67b is mounted perpendicular through support arm 64 (and 65). Arm 64 is rotatably mounted to the side of the foot plate via its spindle 70a. Retention bar 67b is held secured towards the user's foot by coupler arm 65.

At (or near) one end, coupler arm 65 is rotatably mounted to retention bar 67b at its end opposite the foot plate, And at (or near) its other end coupler arm 65 is rotatably mounted to the threaded rod 71.

In construction, the coupler arm 65 is of a length such that when user's foot is engaged and secured to the foot plate by bars 67 and 67a, the retention bar 67b rests on the user's toe/topof-the-foot, as in figure 14 for example. And the tightening nut 69, mounted to 71, further secures the user's foot to the foot plate 60 (e. g. user turns nut 68 clock-wise).

The preferred material of construction for the foot retention means is metal or any other material with sufficient mechanical strength. And for the user's comfort, the retention bars 67, 67a and 67b are provided with softer outer coverings 66 and 66a, which are preferably constructed of foamed plastics material or soft synthetic rubber for example, or any other material having suitable deformable properties. And the outer coverings 66 and 66a are preferably shaped so as to generally conform to user's foot shape.

In some embodiments, coupler arms 35 or 35a (fig. 7 or fig. 10 for example) may be linked to the foot plate 60, via spindle 70a for example. In such embodiments, the levers 16 and 16a and their mountings (e. g. spindle 18 or 18a for example) are omitted and the user operates the braking means with his or her feet, for example by flexing/extending the ankles in order to immobilize the foot support bars 12 and 12a.

In other embodiments, the torso support bars 21 may also be provided with braking means (as provided for the foot support bars). In such embodiments, the foot retention means may be provided by a single foot plate for both of the user's feet. And in operation, the user travels around the horizontal support beam 10 by alternately displacing his or her torso and his or her feet in succession for example.

In further embodiments, the horizontal support beam 10 may be mounted on cushioning support means (e. g. springs and/or hydraulic cylinders) at (or near) both ends so as to provide the user with a cushioning effect while exercising, for example for low impact exercises.

As illustrated in figure 16 (only one side shown in fig. 16), the mounting supports 80 are mounted, horizontally disposed, at the top of the vertical support bars 11. At one end, the support rods 81 are attached perpendicular to horizontal support 10 at (or near) their ends. The mounting supports 80 are formed with a vertical hole (not illustrated) through which support rods 81 are slidingly mounted.

The cushioning effect is provided by the springs 83, the springs 83 are mounted via support rods 81, and exert their forces towards mounting supports 80 and collars 82. The collars 82 are attached to support rods 81 towards their ends adjacent horizontal support 10, thus the user is provided with a cushioning effect while exercising.

In still further embodiments of the invention, the foot support bars and/or torso support bars may be provided with additional weight for example, so as to enhance the user's exercises.

And in a modification, the foot plates 60 may be provided with pivotal resistance about a horizontal axis, i. e. about an axis perpendicular to the foot support bars. Which may consist of an arrangement of springs and/or hydraulic cylinder mounted on brackets attached to the foot support bars for example. The springs are arranged so as to exert their forces about an axis which is perpendicular to the support bars. In operation, the user exercises her or his ankles by a fixirvextending action of the ankles, thus further enhancing the lower limbs exercises.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. An exercise device comprising : substantially horizontal support means, the said horizontal support means being transversely disposed and being supported above ground by generally vertical support means; support bars, the said support bars being rotatably mounted at, or near, one end to the horizontal support means in a manner so as to permit their angular rotation and with their length substantially perpendicular to the horizontal support means, and the support bars being provided at least one for the user's torso and at least one support bar for each foot; buttocks support means, the said buttocks support means being attached to the torso support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means; and foot retention means adapted to engage and retain the user's feet, the foot retention means being provided one for each foot and are mounted to each foot support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means, and each foot support bar is further provided with braking means attached thereof, the braking means being adapted to substantially engage the horizontal support means in a manner so as to immobilise the foot support bar, in operation the user initially sits on the buttocks support means with his or her torso generally parallel with the torso support bar and has each foot held by each foot retention means, and starting with his or her rightlleft leg in a flexed (knee bent) position the user then operates the braking means thereby immobilising the foot support bar, and by exercising the leg muscles from a flexed position towards an extended position, the action of pushing against the immobilised foot support bar causing the reciprocal movement of the user's torso, thus providing the user with lower limb exercise. <Desc/Clms Page number 15> Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows CLAIMS

1. An exercise device comprising: substantially horizontal support means, the said horizontal support means being transversely disposed and being supported above ground by generally vertical support means; support bars, the said support bars being rotatably mounted at, or near, one end to the horizontal support means in a manner so as to permit their angular

rotation and with their length substantially perpendicular to the horizontal support means, and the support bars being provided at least one for the user's torso and at least one support bar for each foot; buttocks support means, the said buttocks support means being attached to the torso support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means; and foot retention means adapted to engage and retain the user's feet, the foot retention means being provided one for each foot and are mounted to each foot support bar thereof at, or near, its end opposite the horizontal support means, and each foot support bar is further provided with braking means attached thereof, the braking means being adapted to substantially engage the horizontal support means in a manner so as to immobilise the foot support bar, in operation the user initially sits on the buttocks support means with his or her torso generally parallel with the torso support bar and has each foot held by each foot retention means, and starting with his or her right/ ! eft leg in a flexed (knee bent) position the user then operates the braking means thereby immobilising the foot support bar, and by exercising the leg muscles from a flexed position towards an extended position, the action of pushing against the immobilise foot support bar causing the reciprocal movement of the user's torso, thus providing the user with lower limb exercise.

2. An exercise device as claimed In claim 1, wherein each torso support bar is mounted for angular rotation around the horizontal support means by means of a wheel, the said wheel being rotatably mounted to the horizontal support means.

3. An exercise device as claimed in claim 1 and claim 2, wherein each foot support bar is mounted for angular rotation around the horizontal support means by means of a wheel, the said wheel being rotatably mounted to the horizontal support means.

4. An exercise device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the braking means consists of friction cylinder I disc mounted to the horizontal support means.

5. An exercise device as claimed in claim 4 and any preceding claim, wherein the braking means further consists of friction pads attached to support components, the said support components being mounted to the foot support bars, adjacent to, and in an arrangement allowing their movement towards, and thus clutching, the friction cylinder/disc in operation.

6. An exercise device as claimed in claim 4 and claim 5, wherein levers are provided as the means to operate the clutching support components via coupler arms, the levers being mounted to the foot support bars with their axes of rotation perpendicular to the foot support bars and in a manner allowing their pivotal movements forward/backward as required by the user while exercising.

7. An exercise device as claimed in claim 4, claim 5 and claim 6, wherein the levers are provided with hand grips.

8. An exercise device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a framework of support bars, generally conforming to the user's shoulders, is provided to releasably secure the user's torso to the torso support bars in operation, the framework being slideably mounted to the torso support bars in a manner allowing adjustment according to user's body size.

9. An exercise device as claimed in claim 8 and any preceding claim, wherein the framework is provided with means to releasably secure the framework to the torso support

bars, which securing nteans the user operates. w i w

10. An exercise device as claimed in claim 8 and claim 9, wherein adjustable safety straps are provided to releasably secure the user's torso to the torso support bars in operation, the safety straps being attached to the torso support bars and the user operates the securing means provided.

11. An exercise device as claimed in claim 10, wherein further adjustable safety straps are provided to releasably secure the user's hip/waist to the torso support bars in operation.

12. An exercise device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the foot retention means comprises a foot-plate with pivotally mounted ankle retention means allowing adjustment according to user's foot size.

13. An exercise device as claimed in claim 12, wherein releasable securing means are provided to secure the ankle retention means around user's ankle in operation, and which securing means is operable by the user.

14. An exercise device as claimed in claim 12 and claim 13, wherein the foot plate is further provided with a toe/top-of-the-foot retention bar, the said retention bar being mounted on pivotai support arm mounted to the foot plate.

15. An exercise device as claimed in claim 13 and claim 14, wherein the pivotal support arm is connected to the ankle retention means by means of a coupler arm in a manner allowing their simultaneous securement/release.

16. An exercise device as claimed in claims 12 to 15, wherein the foot plate is mounted to the foot support bars in a manner so as to be pivotable about an axis which is substantially parallel to that of the horizontal support means.

17. An exercise device as claimed in claims 12 to 16, wherein the foot plate is further provided with pivotal resistance about a horizontal axis to enhance the user's ankie exercise.

18. An exercise device as claimed in claim 16 and claim 17, wherein the pivotal resistance is provided by springs and/or hydraulic cylinders arranged between the foot plate and the foot support bars.

19. An exercise device as claimed in claim 16, wherein a coupler arm is provided between the foot plate and the clutching support components of claim 5 in an arrangement allowing the user to further operate the braking means by flexing her or his ankle muscles.

20. An exercise device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the horizontal support means is slideably mounted at, or near, both ends to vertical support means in a manner allowing the horizontal support means an up and down motion in operation, and which motion is resisted by cushioning means.

21. An exercise device as claimed in claim 20, wherein the cushioning means consists of springs and/or hydraulic cylinders mounted between the vertical support means and the horizontal support means.

22. An exercise device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the user optionally travels through an angle of 360 degrees around the horizontal support means, either in a forward or backward fashion as desired, while exercising.

23. An exercise device as claimed in claim 22, wherein by allowing free rotation of all support bars from a desired height the user is rewarded with a swinging motion, if desired.

24. An exercise device substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.