GB2583958A

GB2583958A - Rowing machine

Info

Publication number: GB2583958A
Application number: GB1906896.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Carl Hamilton Anthony
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2019-05-16
Filing date: 2019-05-16
Publication date: 2020-11-18
Also published as: GB201906896D0

Abstract

A rowing machine having a front end (108, figure 1) and rear end (110, figure 1), a footplate 142 that is changeable between a configuration in which the foot assembly is fixed and a configuration in which the foot plate moves along the ergometer, a seat 152 that is changeable between arrangements in which the seat may slide along the machine between longer and shorter distances. The machine is configured for the user to change between two settings, in one mode the footplate 142 is static and the seating 152 has a larger range of movement, and in the second mode the foot holder 142 is movable and the seat 152 has a second reduced range of movement. The rowing machine may have a resistance mechanism (162, figure 1) attached to the footplate 142, such as a flywheel, that may have an iris mechanism to vary the size of an aperture to alter the flywheel air resistance. There may be two connectable handles, 192, 194, the handles may have a heart rate monitor, body fat sensor, a remote controller, or a position sensor. The device may have weighing scales and the footplate may have a force sensor.

Description

ROWING MACHINE

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a rowing machine.

Background

Rowing machines are known. Rowing machines are typically used in the home or gym to simulate the action of rowing a rowing-boat. Rowing machines are popular for fitness and strength training. Rowing machines are also used by high-level rowers for conditioning, in addition to on water training.

Rowing machines are a popular form of cardiovascular exercise, in particular as they provide an upper body, lower body, and cardiovascular workout simultaneously.

Summary

According to a first aspect disclosed herein, there is provide.d rowing machine comprising a first end at a front of the rowing machine and a second end at a rear of the rowing machine; a footplate assembly, the footplate assembly haying a first configuration in which back and forth movement of the footplate assembly is permitted at least a partial distance between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine, and the footplate assembly having a second configuration in which back and forth movement of the footplate assembly between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine is prevented; a seat, the seat having a first configuration in which back and forth movement of the seat is permitted between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine by a first amount, and the seat having a second configuration in which back and forth movement of the seat is permitted between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine by a second amount, the second amount comprising a shorter distance than the first amount, and the rowing machine configured to enable a user to change the rowing machine between a first mode and a second mode, wherein when in the first mode the seat is placed in its first configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its second configuration, and when in the second mode the seat is placed in its second configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its first configuration.

According to an example, the rowing machine has a third mode of operation in which the seat is placed in its first configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its first configuration.

According to an example, when the footplate assembly is in its second configuration the footplate assembly is held in position proximate to the first end of the rowing machine.

According to an example, the footplate assembly has a third configuration, wherein when in the third configuration the footplate assembly is held in position at a position closer to the second end of the rowing machine than when the footplate assembly is in its second configuration.

According to an example, the rowing machine having a fourth mode of operation in which the footplate assembly is placed in its third configuration and the first end of the rowing machine is configured to provide a base for the rowing machine to stand upright thereon.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a resistance mechanism attached to the footplate assembly.

According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises a flywheel.

According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises an iris mechanism of variable aperture to selectively restrict the flow of air therethrough.

According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises a lever for adjusting a resistance of the resistance mechanism, the lever positioned between a first side and a second side of the rowing machine According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises a drive mechanism for driving the resistance mechanism.

According to an example, the drive mechanism comprises a drive-belt take-up device, the drive-belt take up device attached to a pulley via an elastic cord and the drive-belt take up device configured to translate within the drive mechanism when taking up and letting out the drive-belt.

According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises a cover, the cover being attached to the resistance mechanism by a quic.k release mechanism and the cover being removable from the resistance mechanism as one piece.

According to an example, the resistance mechanism comprises a first resistance mechanism and a second resistance mechanism.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a first handle connected to the first resistance mechanism and a second handle connected to the second resistance mechanism.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a handle connector for connecting the first handle and the second handle together, so as to effectively form a single handle portion.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a holder for holding the handle connector to the footplate assembly.

According to an example; each of the first and second handles comprises respective first and second rotatable hand-grip portions.

According to an example; each handle portion comprises one or more of: a heart rate monitor; a body-fat sensor; a remote control unit.

According to an example; each handle portion comprises a position sensor for enabling a position-in-space of the handles to be determined.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a display for displaying advice to a user for improving rowing technique of the user.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises at least one rail on which the footplate assernbiy and the seat are removably mounted in a modular fashion.

According to an example, the rowing machine comprises a weighing scales for weighing a user of the rowing machine.

According to an example, the footplate assembly comprises a force sensor for monitoring a force being applied to the footplate.

Brief Description of the Drawings

To assist understanding of the present disclosure and to show how embodiments may be put into effect, reference is made by way of example to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows schematically a front perspective view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 2 shows schematically a rear perspective view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 3 shows schematically a plan-view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 4 shows a front-view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 5 shows a rear-view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 6 shows a front perspective view of a chassis of a rowing machine according to an

example;

Figure 7 shows a front perspective view of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 8 shows a side view of a rowing machine according to an example, when in a storage configuration; Figure 9 is a side-view of a drive mechanism of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 10 is a perspective view of a drive mechanism of a rowing machine according to an

example;

Figure 11 schematically shows parts of a resistance mechanism of a rowing machine according to an example; Figure 12 schematically shows computer hardware of a rowing machine according to an 15 example.

Detailed Description

Figures 1 to 12 schematically show aspects of a rowing machine 100 according to an example.

Initially with reference to Figure 1, the rowing machine 1(X) comprises a chassis or main body portion 102. The chassis 102 is also shown in isolation in Figure 6. The chassis 102 comprises a lower portion or base 104. The base 104 supports a rail 106. The rowing machine has a longitudinal axis shown schematically at X-X, which extends between a front end 108 and a rear-end 110 of the rowing machine 100. The base 104 comprises a substantially straight main beam 112, and V-shaped portion 114 at the front end 108 of the rowing machine and V shaped portion 116 at the rear end of the rowing machine. This configuration provides a stable base in a light-weight fashion. in some examples the base 104 is comprised of tubular metal portions joined together. Wheels 118, 120, 122 and 124 are provided {see also Figure 2), which enable the rowing machine 100 to be moved easily when tilted from a horizontal position. A power connector is schematically shown at 232, for enabling the rowing machine 100 to be connected to a suitable power source such as mains power.

According to examples the rail 106 is supported by the base 104. In the examples of Figures 1 to 8 the rail 106 is supported at the first end of the rowing machine 108 by a first pitching mechanism 126, and the ra!I 106 is supported at the second end 110 of the rowing machine by a second pitching mechanism 128. In some examples the first pitching mechanism 126 comprises a spring, and the second pitching mechanism 128 comprises a spring. According to some examples each of the first and second pitching mechanisms 126, 128 comprise a damper. The pitching mechanisms 126 and 128 enable the front and rear ends of the rail to move up and down independently. Thus in examples the front end of the rail 106 may lift relative to the rear end of the rail 106 (and vice versa), and simultaneous upward or downward movement of both ends of the rail may also be enabled. Thus it may generally be considered that the pitching mechanisms 126 and 128 enable pitching or tilting of the rail 106 relative to the longitudinal axis X-X shown in Figure 1, as well as enabling up and down movement of the rail 106 whilst the rail 106 remains in a generally horizontal position.

According to examples the rail 106 is also enabled to rotate or roll about longitudinal axis X-X as schematically shown by arrow R. The rotation can be clockwise or anticlockwise. In the examples shown, a first or front bearing block 130 is shown at front end 108 of the rowing machine, and a second or rear bearing block 132 is shown at rear end 110 of the rowing machine. In examples the bearing blocks 130 and 132 each comprise a rolier bearing for allowing the blocks 130 and 132 (and the rail 106 attached between the blocks), to rotate. In examples bump stops 134, 136, 138 and 140 are provided (see Figures 4 and 5) for limiting an extent of rotation of the rail 106.

It will be understood that as the rail 106 pitches and rolls, then anything mounted on rail 106 will similarly pitch and roll. For example footplate assembly 142 and seat 152 will also pitch and/or roil. Thus pitching and/or rolling may be transferred to a user during use of the rowing machine. The user car. try and counteract the pitching and rolling motions, which utilises core strength and provides a fuller body workout. This also provides an accurate sensation to a user of floating on water. In some examples the pitching mechanism and/or rolling mechanism can be locked-out, to selectively enable and disable the pitching and/or rolling functionality. The pitching and rolling mechanisms are explained in more detail in W02016/146480A1, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In examples, a footplate assembly 142 is mounted on rail 105. As shown in Figure 2 the footplate assembly 142 comprises a first or left side 144 and a second or right side 146. The first side 144 of the footplate assembly 142 comprises first or left footplate 148 and the second side 146 of the footplate assembly 142 comprises a second or right footplate 150.

According to some examples the footplate assembly 142 comprises a carriage which enables the footplate assembly 142 to slide back and forth along the rail 106. According to some examples the seat 152 also comprises a carriage which enables the seat 152 to slide back and forth along the rail 106. Thus in some examples the seat 152 and footplate assembly 142 can each move on the rail 106 as a user performs a rowing motion during use of the rowing machine 100.

According to some examples the footplate assembly 142 comprises a force or load-cell sensor 143 and 145 (see Fig. 3) for monitoring a force being applied to the footplate assembly 142.

Information of force applied may be fed-back to the user via the display 224.

According to some examples the footplate assembly 142 has a first configuration in which movement of the footplate assembly 142 along rail 106 is enabled, and a second configuration in which movement of the footplate assembly 142 along the rail 106 is restricted or prevented. In some examples movement of the footplate assembly 142 is restricted by locking the footplate assembly 142 to the rail 106 via a first mounting hole or a first set of mounting holes 154 (see Figures 6 and 7).

The first set of mounting holes 154 hold the footplate assembly 142 at or close to the front end 1.08 of the rowing machine 100. In some examples a quick release mechanism may be used for selectively locking the footplate assembly to the rail 106. For example a pin(s) may be selectively inserted or removed to lock footplate assembly 142 into mounting holes 154. Alternatively a screw mechanism may enable a user to screw the footplate assembly down on to the rail 106. A second set of mounting holes 156 is also shown in Figure 6, for placing the rowing machine 100 in to a storage configuration. This is explained in more detail with respect to Figure 8.

According to some examples the seat 152 can slide back and forth along the rail 106. According to some examples the seat 152 is unrestricted in this manner i.e. can slide forward as far as the position of footplate assembly 142 will allow, and can slide backwards until it impacts bearing block 132. In some examples, the seat 152 can be selectively changed between a first configuration in which movement of the seat 152 is unrestricted (save for being blocked by footplate assembiy 142 and bearing block 132 or rear-most end of rail 106 as explained above), and a second configuration in which movement of the seat is more restricted. For example when the seat is in the second configuration, the length of rail along which the seat 152 is permitted to move may be 0.5m or less.

For example one or more blockers 158 and 160 may be provided (see Figure 3) to restrict movement of the seat 160 when the seat 160 is in the second configuration. In some examples only blocker 160 is required, with rearward movement of the seat 152 being inherently restricted by the end of the rail! the bearing block 132. In some examples the blockers 158 and/or 160 can be attached or removed (or at least changed between functional and non-functional states) in a quick release manner (e.g. by means of one or more pins or screws). Generally speaking it may be considered that the seat 152 has a first, relatively unrestricted configuration, and a second, more restricted configuration (in terms of movement). In some examples the seat has a third configuration in which movement of the seat is prevented. The third configuration of the seat may be useful, for example, when the rowing machine is being stored.

In some examples the rowing machine has a first configuration or mode. In the first mode of the rowing machine the footplate assembly 142 is placed in its second configuration (i.e. the footplate 142 is prevented from moving, e.g. by being locked in to mounting holes 154). In the first mode of the rowing machine the seat 152 is in its first, unrestricted configuration. The first mode of the rowing machine is the same as or similar to a conventional rowing machine (with respect to the footplate being fixed and the seat being movable). The first mode may be termed a "static mode". The first mode may be helpful to users who are new to the rowing machine 100 and gradually want to phase in the functionalities of the rowing machine 100.

In some examples the rowing machine 100 has a second mode. In the second mode of the rowing machine the footplate assembly 142 is placed in its first configuration (i.e. the footplate assembly 142 is unlocked from the rail 106 and back and forth movement of the footplate assembly 142 along rail 106 is enabled). In the second mode of the rowing machine the seat 152 is placed in its second configuration (i.e. in which restricted movement of the seat is enabled). The second mode may be termed a "dynamic" mode. The dynamic mode may be considered a mode which most accurately reflects real-life rowing, in which the seat of the rowing boat moves a relatively small distance during a rowing stroke (which relatively small distance is less than the distance that conventional rowing machines permit a seat to move).

Thus it may generally be considered that the footplate assembly 142 has a first configuration in which the footplate assembly 142 is enabled to slide back and forth along rail 106, and the footplate assembly 142 has a second configuration in which the footplate assembly 142 is prevented from moving back and forth along rail 106. The seat 152 has a first configuration in which sliding movement of the seat 152 along rail 106 is unrestricted (at least between footplate assembly 142 and a rearmost end of rail 106 and/or bearing block 132), and the seat 152 has a second configuration in which sliding movement of the seat 152 along rail 106 is more restricted than when the seat 152 is in the first configuration. The rowing machine has a first mode in which the footplate assembly 142 is placed in its second configuration and the seat 152 is placed in its first configuration.

The rowing machine has a second mode in which the footplate assembly 142 is placed in its first configuration and the seat 152 is placed in its second configuration. A user can selectively configure the rowing machine 100 in the first mode or the second mode, dependent upon their need.

In some examples the rowing machine 100 has a third configuration. In the third configuration of the rowing machine the footplate assembly 142 is in its first configuration (i.e. movement of the footplate assembly 142 along the rail 106 is enabled) and the seat 152 is in its first configuration (i.e. movement of the seat 152 is unrestricted or relauvely unrestricted). Thus full movement of the footplate assembly 142 and the seat 152 is enabled. This configuration may be useful for maximising muscle-use of a user (for example during a warm-up).

In some examples the rowing machine 100 has a fourth mode. In the fourth mode the footplate 142 is placed in a third configuration in which the footplate 142 is locked to the rail 106, but at a position further back along the rail 106 then when the footplate 142 is in its second configuration. For example the footplate assembly 142 may be locked in to mounting holes 156. In some examples the footplate assembly 142 is mounted 0.5m or about 0.5m further back along rail 106 when the footpiate 142 is in its third configuration compared to its second configuration.. When in the fourth mode, a distal front-end of the resistance mechanism 162 (which is attached to footplate assembly 142) is positioned ievel with or slightly further back than a distal front end of the chassis 102 (e.g. wheels 118 and 120). This enables the rowing machine 100 to be placed in a compact upright or near-upright position for storage, as shown in Figure 8. In the example of Figure 8 the distal front-end of resistance mechanism 162 is set-back from distal front-end of chassis 102 (e.g. wheels 118 and 120), such that the rowing machine 100 slightly tilts over when placed upright, and a stable base 228 is formed between the resistance mechanism 162 and the chassis 102. When in the upright fourth mode as shown in Figure 8, the height of the rowing machine 100 is 1.9m or about 1.9m and the footprint of the rowing machine is about 0.90m by 0.50m. In some examples the display 224 can be pushed down flat for storage, by means of rotatable holder 226 (see Figure 1), as explained in more detail further below. For example the display 224 can be pushed down flat against footplate assembly 142.

Generally speaking different modes of the rowing machine may be achieved by switching the footplate assembly 142 and seat 152 between their various configurations. In some examples any combination of footplate and seat configurations is permitted, based on user need.

The rowing machine 100 comprises a resistance mechanism 162. The resistance mechanism 162 provides resistance to a user as they pull on handle portion 190. The resistance mechanism 162 is attached to footplate assembly 142, so that they can move together along rail 106. In some examples the resistance mechanism 162 comprises a first resistance mechanism 164 and a second resistance mechanism:166. The first resistance mechanism 164 is located on first side 144 of footplate assembly 142, and the second resistance mechanism 166 is located on second side 146 of footplate assembly 142. In some examples the footplate assembly 142 is angled at 400 or about 400 to the rail 106 (included angle). In examples the resistance mechanism 162 is located at a front distal-end of the footplate assembly 142.

In some examples the footplate assembly 142 and resistance mechanism 156 are lightweight. This can be achieved by using lightweight materials such as plastics wherever possible. In some examples the combined footplate and resistance mechanism weight is such that during a rowing stroke the footplate and resistance mechanism move before the seat moves, to give a life-like feeling of rowing where there is relatively little seat movement.

In examples a resistance of the resistance mechanism is adjustable. In some examples a lever 168 is provided between the first side 144 and second side 146 of the footplate assembly 142. Movement of the lever 168 adjusts the resistance of the resistance mechanism. In some examples the lever 168 is similar in style to an aircraft throttle lever. In some examples pushing the lever forwards (i.e. towards front 108 of the rowing machine 100) increases the resistance of the resistance mechanism, and pulling the lever back (i.e. towards back 110 of the rowing machine 100) decreases the resistance of the resistance mechanism. In some examples a single lever 168 is provided, movement of which adjusts resistances of resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 together (i.e. the resistances of resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 are not independently adjustable). In some examples resistances of resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 are independently adjustable, in which case lever 168 may comprise two separate levers, one for each resistance mechanism. The positioning of the lever 168 between the first side 144 and second side 146 of the footplate assembly 142 on a face 170 of the footplate assembly 142 facing rear 110 of the rowing machine is convenient for a user, meaning that they do not have to stretch too far to adjust the resistance, which also makes it easier for a user to adjust the resistance whilst rowing.

In some examples the resistance mechanism 162 comprises a flywheel. In some examples the resistance mechanism 162 comprises an arrangement to selectively increase or decrease a flow rate of air through the resistance mechanism, in order to adjust the resistance experienced by a user pulling on handle portion 190. in some examples the resistance mechanism comprises a mechanical ins mechanism (similar to how a traditional camera aperture is adjusted), the iris mechanism configured to have a variable aperture size for permitting air to flow through the aperture. In examples the aperture of the iris mechanism is adjusted by moving the lever 168 as described above. In some examples the iris mechanism is positioned on or proximate to outer faces of the lateral sides 176 and 178 of resistance mechanisms 164 and 166. In other examples the iris mechanisms could take a position further in-board i.e. closer to the centre of the rowing machine.

In example.s each of the resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 comprises a flywheel arrangement as described above.

In one example each of the resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 is arranged to draw air in from a region 172 (see Figures 3 and 4) between the first resistance mechanism 164 and second resistance mechanism 166 at the front end 108 of the rowing machine. In another example the resistance mechanisms are arranged to draw air in from their respective lateral outer sides 176 and 178. In some examples the first resistance mechanism 164 is configured to expel air out of a lateral cuter side 17601 the first resistance mechanism 164, and the second resistance mechanism 156 is configured to expel air out of a lateral outer side 178 of the second resistance mechanism 166 (see Figures 3 and 4).

In another example first resistance mechanism 164 is arranged to draw air in from lateral side 176, and second resistance mechanism 166 is arranged to draw air in from lateral side 178. In such examples the first resistance mechanism 164 expels air out through mesh cover portion 188 (see below), and second resistance mechanism 166 expels air out through its respective mesh cover.

In some examples the resistance mechanism 162 comprises a cover. More particularly, in some examples the first resistance mechanism 164 comprises a cover 180 and the second resistance mechanism 164 comprises a cover 182 (Figure 3) The cover 180 of first resistance mechanism 164 will be discussed in more detail, and it will be understood that the cover 182 of second resistance mechanism 164 is structured and operates in the same way. Cover 180 comprises a first or inner ring 184, and a second or outer ring 186. In some examples the inner and outer rings are formed of plastic. A cover portion 188 connects the inner ring to the outer ring. In some examples the cover portion 188 comprises a mesh. In some examples the cover 180 comprises a further cover portion 189 which covers off an interior of outer ring 186_ In examples the cover 180 can be lifted off as one-piece, making access to the resistance mechanism very easy for cleaning and/or maintenance. In examples the cover 1805 connected to the rowing machine 100 (for example to footplate assembly 142) via a quick release mechanism. For example the quick release mechanism may comprise a bayonet fitting. Alternatively the quick release mechanism may comprise one or more quick reiease skewers or one or more latches. In some examples the quick release mechanism is located in the region of inner ring 184.

Some alternative ways of drawing air in and expelling air out of the resistance mechanisms are schematically shown in Figure II, which is a schematic sectional plan view of left resistance mechanism 164' arid right resistance mechanism 166'. It will be understood that the example of Figure n is for the purposes of comparison of two different structures for the resistance mechanisms. In practice; both sides of the resistance mechanism will be the same. For example in practice the left side resistance mechanism 164' ("VERSION 1") would be accompanied by a right side mechanism that is a mirror image of left-side mechanism 164'. Likewise in practice the right side resistance mechanism 166" ("VERSION 2") would be accompanied by a mirror image of right side resistance mechanism 166". In examples the fan or flywheel 245', 245" acts to draw the air in. In some examples the fan 245', 245" comprises a centrifugal fan, so draws air through its centre and expels air from its outer faces.

Looking at the left-hand mechanism in Figure 11 this shows that air is drawn in from front end 108' of the rowing machine. Air is expelled out through cover:1.88', which in examples may comprise a mesh cover. Accordingly gap 172' between the first and second resistance mechanisms may be open, or comprise a cover that aliows air through (e.g. a mesh). The arrangement to selectively increase or decrease air-flow (e.g. iris mechanism) is schematically shown at 185', on the inner lateral side of the resistance mechanism.

Looking at the right-hand mechanism in Figure 11 this shows that air is drawn in from lateral outer side 178" of the second resistance mechanism 166". Air is expelled out through cover 188", which in examples may comprise a mesh cover. Gap 172' between the first and second resistance mechanisms may be closed or sealed in the right-hand example of Figure 11, since in such examples air is not being drawn in from front 108' of the rowing machine. The arrangement to selectively increase or decrease air-flow (e.g. iris mechanism) is schematically shown at 185", on the outer lateral side 178" of the resistance mechanism.

As discussed above, each of handles 192 and 194 is attached to respective resistance mechanisms 164 and 166. The drive connection (or drive mechanism or drive train) between handle 192 and resistance mechanism 194 is shown in more detail in Figures 9 and 10. The drive mechanism also comprises a return mechanism. It will be understood that the drive connection between handle 194 and resistance mechanism 166 has the same structure and operates in the same way.

The handle 192 is connected to a gear or wheel 240 with a connector 191 The connector 193 may for example be a cable or a flat belt. Gear 240 takes up and lets-out the connector 193 as the user moves the handle during a rowing stroke. Thus the gear 240 may act as a capstan for the connector 193. Gear 240 is rotatably fixed to a second gear or wheel 242 (for example with an adjoining shaft). Gear 242 is connected to a drive gear 244 of resistance mechanism 164 (and more particularly drive gear 244 is a drive gear of flywheel 245 of resistance mechanism 164). Gear 244 is smaller than gear 242, and thus rotates more quickly (in terms of RPM) than gear 242 which is driving it In some examples the gear ratio between gear 242 and gear 244 is 2:1. In another example the gear ratio is 1:1. In other examples the gear ratio may be in a range between 1:1 and 2:1. A belt (which may be a toothed belt) or cable 243 connects gear 242 to gear 244 A take-up wheel or spool is shown at 247 for taking up any slack in bungee cable 248 as the handle 192 moves towards the resistance mechanism 164. In some examples the take-up wheel 247 acts as a capstan about which the bungee 248 wraps and unwraps itself. In some examples. An end of bungee cord 248 is anchored at anchor point 250. The other end of the bungee cord 248 is anchored within take-up wheel 247. In some examples a ratio between handle 192 (and connector 193) movement to bungee cord 248 movement is 4:1. For example pulling the handle a distance of 4cm will result in the bungee cord 248 extending by 1cm.

The drive and return mechanism shown in Figures 9 and 10 is particularly compact.

In the examples a handle portion 190 is provided for emulating a rowing oar or oars. In some examples a first handle portion 192 drives first resistance mechanism 164, and a second handle portion drives second resistance mechanism 166. As shown in Figures 2, 3 and 5, first handle 192 comprises grip portion 206; and second handle 194 comprises grip portion 208. Each grip portion 206, 208 is rotatable in its respective handle 192, 194. This allows a user to emulate "squaring" and "feathering" of the oars. This is also comfortable for a user, as it allows the hand to naturally rotate during a rowing action which could lessen or prevent wrist discomfort or injury over time.

One or more of the handles may comprise further functionality. In some examples one or more of handles 192 and 194 may comprise a heart rate monitor. In some examples each handle 192 and 194 comprises components of a body-fat sensor circuit. A user holding the handles 192 and 194 may then complete the circuit of the body fat sensor when in operation. As shown schematically in Figure 3, each handle 192 and 194 may comprise part of a remote control e.g. for controlling a user interface on display 224. Remote control buttons are schematically shown at 21.4 on first handle 192 and at 216 on second handle 194. In some examples remote control button 214 may perform a left action on a user interface (e.g. move cursor left or select left option on Ul), and remote control button 216 may perform a right action on a user interface (e.g. move cursor right or select right option on UI).

In some examples a handle connector 222 is provided (see Figure 2 where handle connector 222 is schematically shown attached to footplate assembly 142). In some examples the handle connector 222 is a push-fit in a holder on the footplate assembly 142, enabling the handle connector 222 to be quickly released. Once released the handle connector 222 may be used to link first handle 192 with second handle 194, to effectively turn the two separate handles 192 and 194 in to a single handle portion. In some examples the handle connector 222 is magnetic, and a magnetic connection is provided between connector 222 and handles 192 and 194. In some examples, when the connector 222 is attached to footplate assembly 142, then the connector 222 can act as a useful holder or holster for neatly holding the handles when they are not in use. For example the connector 222 could prevent the handles from hanging loosely when the rowing machine is in the upright position of Figure 8.

Handles 192 and 194 are also shown in a schematic fashion in Figure 1.2. Figure 12 schematically shows a controller 260 of rowing machine 100. Controller 260 comprises a memory 262 and a processor 264. In Figure 12 first handle 192 and second handle 194 are schematically shown. Heartrate monitors are schematically shown at 217 and 219. Body fat sensors are schematically shown at 221 and 223. Position sensors are also shown at 218 in first handle 192, and at 220 in second handle 194. The position sensors 218 and 220 enable a position-in-space to be detected by controller 260 for each of handles 192 and 194. In some examples each position sensor 218 and 220 comprises an accelerometer. in some examples a calibration process is required in order to calibrate position sensors 218 and 220. The calibration process may comprise having a user place the handles 192 and 194 in set positions according to instruction, for example by following a tutorial on display 224. Where the handles comprise rotatable hand-grip portions 206 and 208, then respective rotation sensors 225 and 227 may be provided in some examples to determine a degree of rotation of the handles. The position sensors 218, 220 and the rotations sensors 225, 227 may provide accurate information of how movement of handles 192 and 194 would translate to movement of an oar in an on-water situation and whether the handle movements would translate to an efficient rowing technique.

Controller 260 may also receive information from resistance mechanisms 164 and 166 (e.g. resistance level information; flywheel RPM etc.) Controller 260 may also receive information from force sensor 143 in first footplate 148 and from force sensor 145 in second footplate 150.

In examples the controller 260 may determine output information for displaying on display 224, based on measured performance parameters. Measured performance parameters may comprise one or more of: resistance level of resistance mechanism(s); RPM of flywheel(s); positional information of handle(s). With respect to the positional information of the handles, this may enable the controller 260 to determine whether the user has moved the handle in a way that would translate to correct or incorrect use of an oar in a rowing boat. For example the controller 260 may determine whether a user has correctly squared the oars. This information may also be used to determine e.g. speed of the user such as time per 500m. For example a user may be operating the handles quickly at a high resistance level (which would ordinarily translate to a high speed), but if the user is not correctly squaring the oar then in examples this will result in a decreased output speed of the user. Similarly the controller may determine if a user Is "rainbowing" the handles, where the handles are lifted over the user's knees during a rowing stroke.

In some examples the controller 260 is configured to cause feedback or advice to be provided to a user via display 224. In some examples the advice is prioritised based on importance. That is in some examples one piece of advice is provided at a time e.g. "pull the handles right in to your chest". Only once it is determined that this piece of advice has been heeded will the next piece /.5 of advice be provided e.g. "Hold your knees down longer, so you don't lift the handles over your knees". This prevents a user from being bombarded with too much information simultaneously, arid helps train a user to have a correct rowing technique over time.

Health information may also be output to a user e.g. parameters such as heart rate, resting heart rate, body fat percentage, weight etc., and how those parameters vary over time. In some examples a weighing scales is provided!fl chassis 102 (shown schematically at 230 in Figure 6) in order to weigh a user. The health information may help motivate users as they see improvements over time. Furthermore, the information available may provide accurate health advice, For example a user may get heavier over time as they build muscle, and the information from the body fat sensors will enable the controller to determine that the increase weight is due to increased muscle mass rather than fat (and for this information to be provided to a user).

In some examples the display 224 is connected to a holder 225 (Figure 1) which may be rotated around the resistance mechanism 162. This enables the display to move between a first, user-facing position (as shown in Figure 1), and a second, coaching position in which the display 224 displays forwardly from the rowing machine, so that the display can be viewed from the front of the machine by a coach. A UI or display out put on the display may be configured to automatically adjust its orientation in dependence on whether the display is in the user position or the coaching position.

In some examples the rowing machine 100 is modular in nature. For example different footplate assemblies and/or seats 152 may be mixed-and-matched on a common chassis 102.

The examples described herein are to be understood as illustrative examples of embodiments of the invention. Further embodiments and examples are envisaged. Any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features. In addition, any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the examples or embodiments, or any combination of any other of the examples or embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described herein may also be employed w!thin the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.

Claims

Claims A rowing machine comprising: a first end at a front of the rowing machine and a second end at a rear of the rowing machine; a footplate assembly, the footplate assembly having a first configuration in which back and forth movement of the footplate assembly is permitted at least a partial distance between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine, and the footplate assembly having a second configuration in which back and forth movement of the footplate assembly between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine is prevented; a seat, the seat having a first configuration in which back and forth movement of the seat is permitted between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine by a first amount, and the seat having a second configuration in which back and forth movement of the seat is permitted between the first end and the second end of the rowing machine by a second amount, the second amount comprising a shorter distance than the first amount; and the rowing machine configured to enable a user to change the rowing machine between a first mode and a second mode, wherein when in the first mode the seat is placed in its first configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its second configuration, and when in the second mode the seat is placed in its second configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its first configuration.
2. A rowing machine according to claim 1, the rowing machine having a third mode of operation in which the seat is placed in its first configuration and the footplate assembly is placed in its first configuration.
3. A rowing machine according to claim or claim 2, wherein when the footpl-ate assembly is in its second configuration the footplate assembly is held in position proximate to the first end of the rowing machine.
4. A rowing machine according to claim 3, the footplate assembly having a third configuration, wherein when in the third configuration the footplate assembly is held in position at a position closer to the second end of the rowing machine than when the footplate assembly is in its second configuration.
5. A rowing machine according to claim 4, the rowing machine having a fourth mode of operation in which the footplate assembly is placed in its third configuration and the first end of the rowing machine is configured to provide a base for the rowing machine to stand upright thereon.
6. A rowing machine according to any of claims 1 to 5, comprising a resistance mechanism attached to the footplate assembly.
7. A rowing machine according to claim 6, the resistance mechanism comprising a flywheel,
8. A rowing machine according to claim 6 or claim 7, the resistance mechanism comprising an iris mechanism of variable aperture to selectively restrict the flow of air therethrough.
9. A rowing machine according to any of claims 6 to 8, the resistance mechanism comprising a lever for adjusting a resistance of the resistance mechanism, the lever positioned between a first side and a second side of the rowing machine.
10. A rowing machine according to any of claims 6 to 9, the resistance mechanism comprising a drive mechanism for driving the resistance mechanism.
11. A rowing machine according to claim 10, the drive mechanism comprising a drive-belt take-up device, the drive-belt take up device attached to a pulley via an elastic cord and the drive-belt take up device configured to translate within the drive mechanism when taking up and letting out the drive-belt.
12. A rowing machine according to any of claims 6 to 11, the resistance mechanism comprising a cover, the cover being attached to the resistance mechanism by a quick release mechanism and the cover being removable from the resistance mechanism as one piece.
13. A rowing machine according to any of claims 6 to 12, wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a first resistance mechanism and a second resistance mechanism.
14. A rowing machine according to claim 131 comprising a first handle connected to the first resistance mechanism and a second handle connected to the second resistance mechanism.
15. A rowing machine according to claim 14, comprising a handle connector for connecting the first handle and the second handle together, so as to effectively form a single handle portion.
16. A rowing machine according to claim 15, comprising a holder for holding the handle connector to the footplate assembly.
17. A rowing machine according to any of claims 14 to 16, each of the first and second handles comprising respective first and second rotatable hand-grip portions.
18. A rowing machine according to any of claims 14 to 17, each handle portion comprising one or more of: a heart rate monitor; a body-fat sensor; a remote control unit.
19. A rowing machine according to any of claims 14 to 18, each handle portion comprising a position sensor for enabling a position-in-space of the handles to be determined,
20. A rowing machine according to any of claims Ito 19, comprising a display for displaying advice to a user for improving rowing technique of the user.
21. A rowing machine according to any of claims 1 to 20 comprising at least one rail on which the footplate assembly and the seat are removably mounted in a modular fashion.
22. A rowing machine according to any of claims Ito 21, comprising a weighing scales for weighing a user of the rowing machine.
23. A rowing machine according to any of claims 1 to 22, the footplate assembly comprising a force sensor for monitoring a force being applied to the footplate.