US20150196799A1

US20150196799A1 - Plyometric Push-Up Apparatus and Related Methods

Info

Publication number: US20150196799A1
Application number: US14/595,124
Authority: US
Inventors: Julian Chua
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2014-01-10
Filing date: 2015-01-12
Publication date: 2015-07-16

Abstract

It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel exercise device that is one-piece and portable. The device will be an exercise box with several height settings so a user can vary the types and intensity of their workout. The device can be used for plyometric exercises, specifically push-ups, but it also can be used to perform a variety of different exercises.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application 61/925,790 filed on Jan. 10, 2014. The previous application is hereby incorporated by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present application relates to the field of exercise equipment and method for plyometric and other using the equipment.
2. Background of the Invention
Plyometrics denotes dynamic resistance exercise that focuses on muscle extension to a rapid contraction. Plyometrics were originally developed for training Olympic athletes, but now it is a popular workout routine. Plyometric training a popular form of training for boxers, football players, and cross-fit athletes. The benefits of plyometrics are increased muscle strength, joint protection, and reduced risk of injury. A plyometric push-up is similar to a traditional push-up, but the push-up drives the body up explosively, so that the hands come off the floor. One common variation of the plyometric push-up is a push-up where one claps between each rep. Another variation to the plyometric push-up is one where one sets up two boxes side by side. The person performing the exercise will position his/herself between the two boxes. The user will then perform a push-up off the floor and press his/her hands so that he/she comes off the floor explosively and lands on the two boxes. He/she will then repeat a push-up exercise on the boxes so that his/her hands come off the boxes and he finishes the push-up on the floor.
Currently there are several boxes available commercially that will assist a person in performing a plyometric push-up. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,158,512 (1992) by Hand teaches an adjustable stepping structure which consists of a platform. The height of the platform can be adjusted by detachable stacking support elements. While this stepping structure is useful in commercial gyms, it is difficult to store in a home because it contains multiple large parts. Another problem with the stepping structure is that the surface is made of a hard plastic material that makes doing plyometric push-ups on the stepping structure have a painful impact on the wrists. Accordingly, a need exists for an adjustable height plyometric box that is one piece for easy storage and has a surface consisting of a low impact material that also can be used for a variety of different purposes.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,824,319 (2010) to Carlesimo teaches a set of stackable blocks in order for the user to perform a variety of push-up exercises. These blocks are useful for performing push-up exercises, but they are limited mostly to push-up exercises and cannot be used for most of the exercises associated with an exercise step.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,351,525 to Rozenblad (1982) and U.S. Pat. No. 7,951,055 to Mulderrig (2011) both teach a device for assistance with push-ups. However, both of these devices have handles, which are not practical for plyometric push-ups.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,216,114 to Wynn (2012) teaches an adjustable exercise platform that is one main component for easier storage. The device consists of two vertical stands with notches. A platform will fit into the notches and can be adjusted by moving the platform up or down the stands. The vertical stands will restrict the number of exercises that can be performed on the platform.
There are also several plyometric boxes commercially available. Fisher Athletics, UCS-Plyo-Safe G2, and MD USA all make stackable boxes with softer, low impact surfaces designed to be used for plyometric exercises. These boxes are large, consist of multiple parts, and the height of the box cannot be adjusted.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide an exercise box with an adjustable height for plyometric push-ups.
It is a further objective that the present invention has a low impact surface for plyometric push-ups to reduce stress on the wrist when performing a plyometric push-up.
It is a further object of the present invention to be one piece for easy storage and home use.
It is a further object of the present invention to be versatile enough to be used for other exercises associated with an aerobic stepping device. These objectives are not to be construed as limitations of the applicant's invention, but merely suggest the benefits that may be realized by the invention and its many embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The manner in which these objectives and other desirable characteristics can be obtained is explained in the following description and attached figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment which shows the invention at its lowest height.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a preferable embodiment of the invention depicting the height raised a few inches above the lowest possible height.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a preferable embodiment of the invention depicting the steps raised to give the invention additional height.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a preferable embodiment of the invention depicting the maximum height of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a preferable embodiment of the invention.

It is to be noted, however, that the appended figures illustrate only typical embodiments of the disclosed assemblies, and therefore, are not to be considered limiting of their scope, for the disclosed assemblies may admit to other equally effective embodiments that will be appreciated by those reasonably skilled in the relevant arts. Also, figures are not necessarily made to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is for an exercise device. It may be used for push-ups as well as other forms of exercise associated with exercise steps. These include, but are not limited to plyometric, isometric, and aerobic exercises. Unlike most exercise steps, which have multiple components, the present invention is one piece which allows for easier home use, portability and storage. FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing of a preferable embodiment of the plyometric box in a folded collapsed position. The box features a top 2, height adjustment panels 16, a support board 10, and at least one column 8. The top 2 is typically rectangular. The top 2 suitably defines a rectangular surface 18 preferably made of cushioned, rigid material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or other plastics. The edges of the top 2 are attached to the a first set of height adjustment panels 16 by means of an attachment means such as screws, bolts, nails, staples, or glue or the top 2 and the panels 16 may also be one piece and of uniform construction.
The height adjustment panels 16 may be square or rectangular. The side of the panel 16 that is attached to the top 2 will be narrower than the width of the top 2. The first set height adjustment panels 16 can be used to vary the height of the top 2.
Directly underneath the top is a support board 10. The support board 10 is typically rectangular. In the preferred embodiment, it will be the same shape and have the same dimensions as the top 2. The support board 10 interacts with the height adjustment panels 16 to provide support to the box when the height adjustment panels 16 have been used to raise the height of the top 2. The support board 10 may be made of metal or a lightweight durable polymer.
At the base of the box are two columns 8. FIG. 1 shows the columns 8 in a folded collapsed position. The columns 8 may be rectangular. The columns 8 unfold to a standing position using a hinge 4 on both sides of each column 8 that is attached to the support board 10. When folded, the columns 8 provide support and stability to the box. The top 2, panels 16, and columns 8 may be made of a lightweight durable polymer for easy portability but still having the strength to support an athlete. FIG. 1 depicts the box in a position that is ideal for easy portability and storability. Because the box is one unit with an adjustable height, it is easier to store than a traditional device that is made up of separate parts. The box can also be used in this position for various exercises including plyometric push-ups. FIG. 1 depicts the minimum height of the box when it is being used for exercise. The minimum height of the box is ideal for performing exercises, such as plyometric push-ups, at a low intensity. Other settings can accommodate more vigorous exercise.
FIG. 2 is a perspective drawing of a preferable embodiment of the box where the top 2 has been raised several inches above the minimum height using the first set of height adjustment panels 16. FIG. 2 illustrates the features of the first set of height adjustment panels 16. The height adjustment panels 16 have holes 14 on the sides of them. Each hole 14 in the panel 16 corresponds to a different height. There are four removable pins 6 in each corner of the support board 10. The increase in height is supported by inserting the removable pin 6 on the support board 10 into one of several holes in the height adjustment panel 16. The removable pins 6 may be made of the same durable polymer as the rest of the box or it could be made of metal or another sturdy, durable material. Adjusting the box to this height will allow the user to increase the intensity of their workout. A user can increase the intensity even further by unfolding the columns 8.
FIG. 3 is a perspective drawing of a preferable embodiment of the box where the columns 8 are in an unfolded position. The columns 8 unfold to give the box increased height. When the columns 8 unfold, the columns 8 stand upright at the edges of the support board 10. The box will resemble a table with the columns 8 acting as the legs and the support board 10 acting as a table top. There is a second, longer set of height adjustment panels 20 on the side of the columns 8. There is a hinge 4 on both sides of the each column 8 that is connected to the support board 10. The hinge 4 fits into a round lock 12. The hinge 4 and lock 12 keep columns 8 and the box stable when the user is performing exercises on the box. The hinge 4 and the lock 12 may be made of the same durable polymer as the rest of the box or it may be made of metal or another sturdy durable material. The standing the columns 8 upright give the box increased height over the height adjustment panels 16 as seen in FIG. 2. Unfolding the columns 8 will give the box additional height so the user can increase the intensity of their workout. A user can maximize intensity by raising the height of the box even further.
FIG. 4 is a perspective drawing of the box at the maximum height. The height of the top 2 of the box is raised by using both the columns 8 as described in FIG. 3 and a second set of height adjustment panels 20. The second set of height adjustment panels 20 may fit between grooves in the columns. The second set of height adjustment 20 panels can slide vertically along the length of the columns 8 and can attach to the top 2 using a latch 24. In order to utilize the second set of height adjustment panels 20, the first set of panels 16 must be shifted horizontally along the support board 10. A locking mechanism 22A will secure the first set of panels 16 in place. The locking mechanism 22A may be a removable pin, a spring-loaded catch similar to a ball-point pen, or any other mechanism that will keep the first set of panels 16 secure. The second set of height adjustment panels 20 may be made of the same durable polymer as the rest of the box. A user can increase the height to a maximum height to allow for the maximum intensity for exercises such as plyometric push-ups.
FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the preferred embodiment of the invention in a folded position. There is a pair of latches 24 on each set of height adjustment panels 16, 20. The latches 24 connect the top 2 to the first set of height adjustment panels 16. There are additional locking mechanisms 22B on the side of each column 8. The locking mechanisms 22B keep the second set of height adjustment panels 20 in place when the invention is in a folded position. The latches 24 may be made of the same durable polymer as the rest of the box or it may be made of metal or another sturdy material. The locking mechanisms 22B may be removable pins, spring-loaded catches similar to a ball-point pen, or another mechanism that will keep the second set of height adjustment panels 20 secure.
Other features will be understood with reference to the drawings. While various embodiments of the method and apparatus have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams might depict an example of an architectural or other configuration for the disclosed method and apparatus, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that might be included in the method and apparatus. The disclosed method and apparatus is not restricted to the illustrated example architectures or configurations, but the desired features might be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional, logical, or physical partitioning and configurations might be implemented to implement the desired features of the disclosed method and apparatus. Also, a multitude of different constituent module names other than those depicted herein might be applied to the various partitions. Additionally, with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and method claims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recited functionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.
Although the method and apparatus is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects, and functionality described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead might be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the other embodiments of the disclosed method and apparatus, whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not such features are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus the breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments.
Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open-ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” should be read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like, the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof, the terms “a” or “an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more,” or the like, and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,” “standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that might be available or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.
The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases might be absent. The use of the term “module” does not imply that the components or functionality described or claimed as part of the module are all configured in a common package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of a module, whether control logic or other components, might be combined in a single package or separately maintained and might further be distributed across multiple locations.
Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described in terms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts, and other illustrations. As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their various alternatives might be implemented without confinement to the illustrated examples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying description should not be construed as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.
The claims, as originally filed, are hereby incorporated into the specification by reference.

Claims

The invention claimed is:

1. A collapsible exercise device with an adjustable height comprising:

a flat planar top;

at least one panel adjacent to the top that adjusts the height of the top;

a support structure disposed underneath the top;

at least one collapsible column supporting the top; and,

whereby a user can perform a variety of exercises on the device.

2. A device according to claim 1 where the number of panels is two.

3. A device according to claim 1 where the number of panels is four.

4. A device according to claim 1 where the number of columns is two.

5. A device according to claim 1 where the number columns is four.

6. A device according to claim 1 where the top is covered with a cushioned rigid material consisting of any of the group of materials which are: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), foam, rubber, and Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

7. A device according to claim 1 where the support structure is a flat planar board with the same dimensions as the top.

8. A device according to claim 1 where the panels have holes on the sides corresponding to different heights and the height may be adjusted by inserting a pin into either the support structure or the columns.

9. A device according to claim 8 where the number of panels is two; and the number of columns is two.

10. A device according to claim 8 where the number of panels is four and the number of columns is two.

11. A device according to claim 8 where the top is covered with a cushioned rigid material consisting of any of the group of materials which are: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), foam, rubber, and Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

12. A method of performing anaerobic, aerobic, plyometric, and isometric exercises with the device comprising:

a. Placing two boxes approximately parallel to each other shoulder width apart;

b. Placing one's body in a push-up position between the two boxes;

c. Performing a push-up exercise between the two boxes wherein the user's hands come off the floor;

d. Finishing the push-up exercise on top of the boxes;

e. Performing a push-up exercise on top the boxes wherein the user's hands come off the boxes;

f. Finishing the push-up exercise on the floor; and

g. Repeating the exercise as many repetitions as necessary.