WO1997000031A2

WO1997000031A2 - Upper body resistance mechanism for exercise device

Info

Publication number: WO1997000031A2
Application number: PCT/US1996/010306
Authority: WO
Inventors: David A. Dornbush; Neal P. Barnes; Jeffrey E. Sandahl; Dale R. Henn
Original assignee: American Harvest, Inc.
Priority date: 1995-06-16
Filing date: 1996-06-13
Publication date: 1997-01-03
Also published as: WO1997000031A3; AU6175996A

Abstract

An exercise device having a base with a lower body exercise mechanism for exercising a lower body of an operator. Pivotable hand levers provide upper body resistance for the operator in a first operating mode. A locking mechanism locks the pivotable hand levers in a plurality of fixed positions within a range of motion of the operator in a second operating mode. The pivotable hand levers operate as handle bars when in the second operating mode. A bridge structure connects the pivotable hand levers in the second operating mode. The locking mechanism also permits the pivotable hand levers to be locked in a forward, fixed position out of a range of motion of the operator. The pivotable handle levers may include an operator activated communication mechanism for controlling an electronic display and/or an electronic resistance control unit. The communication mechanism is preferably wireless, such as infrared or ultrasonic.

Description

UPPER BODY RESISTANCE MECHANISM FOR EXERCISE DEVICE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a multi-function upper body mechanism for an exercise device, and in particular, to a combination upper body resistance mechanism and handle bars for exercise devices and accessories for use therewith.

Background of the Invention Walking, jogging, and cross-country skiing have been found to be effective activities for exercising the body, and in particular, the legs, heart and lungs. However, these activities are primarily outdoor activities which can be severely limited by adverse weather and geographic conditions. The limitations of traditional outdoor exercise activities have in some respects been resolved by the development of indoor exercise devices which simulate particular exercise activities. In this regard, a wide variety of walking, striding and cross-country skiing devices have heretofore been known in the art. One such device is a cross-country skiing machine having a pair of parallel horizontal rails and a pair of footskates which are movably supported on the rails. The cross-country skiing device further includes a belt mechanism which causes the footskate to move in unison in opposite directions. Still further, the skiing device includes two independent hand levers which pivot back and forth to simulate the movement of cross-country ski poles. In use, the operator stands upon the footskate and reciprocates the footskate back and forth while simultaneously pushing and pulling the hand levers. While such cross-country skiing devices are capable of providing a significant aerobic workout, it has been found that they also places stress on the back and leg joints that is problematic for some operators. The reciprocating movement ofthe feet along a horizontal path causes the operator's torso to move up and down, thereby forcing the operator to continuously lift his/her body weight with each stride.

In addition, the up and down lifting motion ofthe torso increases the stress placed on the leg joints, particularly the hip and knee joints. Still further, the pushing and pulling ofthe hand levers forces the operator to bend over and reach from the waist which unnecessarily stresses the back muscles. Accordingly, it has been found that persons who have back, knee or hip problems often find it uncomfortable, painful, or even impossible to utilize ski-type exercise machines.

Another exerciser has a pair of spaced vertical frame members and a pair of swinging leg members which are pivotally mounted on the vertical frame members. In use, the operator stands on platforms which are mounted at the ends ofthe swinging leg members and reciprocates his/her legs back and forth in a swinging motion between the vertical frame members. The swinging movement ofthe legs in a stri ding-type exerciser provides substantially the same aerobic benefits as cross-country ski exerciser.

When such an exerciser includes hand levers, the levers usually rotate about a point which do not require the operator to bend or reach while exercising. Although such exercisers have been found to be highly effective in providing a low stress aerobic workout, they have several design problems which prevent their widespread marketability and use. These exercise devices generally require heavy duty frame members and heavy duty bearings to accommodate the weight ofthe operator on the pivot mechanisms. As a result, these machines are too bulky and too heavy for use within the home. In addition, the required heavy duty construction makes striding exercisers too costly to compete with other less expensive exercise devices. Striding-type exercisers are usually only found in institutional rehabilitation centers and large scale exercise facilities that have substantial funds for purchasing and maintaining these machines.

Most of these exercise devices provide the operator either with a handle bar to grip for maintaining balance or a dynamic upper body resistance mechanism, but not both. However, for a variety of reasons, such as when an operator first begins using a particular machine or as the result of an injury, the operator may choose to not use the upper body portion ofthe exercise device. Without a sturdy surface to grip, even an experienced operator can lose his or her balance and fall, potentially causing injury. Additionally, since these dynamic upper body resistance mechanism are designed specifically as an exercise device, they typically do not accommodate accessory trays or other conveniences desirable with exercise devices. Summary ofthe Invention

The present invention relates to a multi-function upper body mechanism for an exercise device having a combination dynamic upper body resistance mechanism and handle bars can be used on a wide variety of exercise devices. The upper body mechanism provides the operator with dynamic upper body resistance in a first mode. A locking mechanism locks the upper body resistance mechanism in a fixed position in a second mode to provide a gripping surface for the operator. The second stationary mode can include a plurality of fixed positions within a range of motion ofthe upper body resistance mechanism. The present invention is also directed to an accessory for an exercise device. The accessory includes a bridge structure that releasably joins the handles ofthe upper body resistance mechanism when in the second mode. The bridge structure adds stability and convenience to the handles when in the second mode and provides additional gripping surfaces for the operator. In addition to the gripping handles, the bridge structure may also include a mechanism for receiving a water bottle, a tray structure with clips for holding reading material or other items, a slot for receiving miscellaneous items, such as portable stereo units, and other conveniences.

In one embodiment, the upper body resistance mechanism includes a pair of pivotable hand levers in a first mode and a locking mechanism for retaining the pivotable hand levers in a fixed position in a second mode. The receiving mechanism includes a pair of angled receiving holes with clamps for frictional engagement with the pivotable hand levers. The angled holes are in the range of 30 to 50 degrees with respect to the surface ofthe bridge structure so to present reading material at an angle that is convenient to the operator. In an alternate embodiment, the present bridge structure may be releasably connected to fixed or rigid handles on an exercise device having a base with a lower body exercise mechanism for exercising a lower body of an operator. It will be understood that the present locking mechanism and bridge structure may be used with a variety of exercise devices having a base for supporting an operator's feet during exercise and pivotable hand levers for providing dynamic upper body resistance for the operator, such as a striding exercise device. In one embodiment, the exercise device is a striding exercise device having a base with at least one elongated track defining a continuous arc that curves upward along at least one end portion thereof. At least a portion of the continuous arc has a curvature generally corresponding to a swing arc of an operator's leg and two footskates slidably engaged with the at least one track. The footskates are operable for receiving the feet ofthe operator. The operator reciprocates her feet back and forth so that the footskates move in reciprocating motion along at least a portion ofthe continuous arc. A pair of pivotable hand levers are rotatably connected to the base by a variable resistance system for providing dynamic upper body resistance to the operator in a first operating mode. A locking mechanism is provided for locking the pivotable hand levers in a plurality of fixed positions within a range of motion ofthe operator in a second operating mode so that the pivotable hand levers operate as handle bars when in the fixed positions.

The locking mechanism may also permits the pivotable hand levers to be locked in a forward, fixed position out ofthe range of motion ofthe operator. The locking mechanism may be a spring loaded locking pin or a variety of other suitable devices. The pivotable hand levers may be connected to the base by a variable resistance system, such as frictional, electro-resistive, hydraulic, pneumatic or elastomeric. The continuous arc ofthe striding exerciser may have a constant or variable radius. A mechanism may be provided for modifying the radius of curvature ofthe continuous arc. In one embodiment, the elongated track is releasably retained to the base. Front and rear moveable track supports are provided for independently modifying the radius of curvature ofthe front and rear ofthe elongated track. Alternatively, the end portions ofthe releasably track are fixed and the middle portion is raised or lowered to achieve the desired radius of curvature.

In another embodiment, two footskates are connected to a variable resistance mechanism for providing variable resistance to the footskates. Alternatively, the footskates may be connected to a motor for moving the footskates in an opposite reciprocating motion along the elongated tracks. The handlebars may have an operator control device for controlling the operation of the motor.

The pivotable handle levers may include an operator activated communication mechanism for controlling an electronic display and/or an electronic resistance control unit. The communication mechanism is preferably infrared, ultrasonic or a variety of other wireless communications systems. The operator activated communications mechanism may also be used to control a motor powering the footskates. Alternatively, a switch may be provided for automatically activating the electronic display unit when an operator moves the footskates.

In another embodiment, a vertically adjustable or telescoping support is provided for supportively raising and lowering at least one end portion ofthe elongated track to simulate a striding exerciser with a generally horizonal end portion. The present invention is also directed to a method for operating an exercise apparatus. The operator exercises his/her lower body portion on a base portion ofthe exercise device while gripping pivotable hand levers movable connected to the base. The pivotable hand levers are reciprocated to provide upper body resistance to the operator in a first operating mode. The pivotable hand levers are locked in a fixed positions within a range of motion ofthe operator in a second operating mode so that the pivotable hand levers operate as handle bars. A bridge is attached to the pivotable hand levers in the second operating mode.

The present invention is also directed to a method for operating a striding exerciser with upper body resistance. The operator locates both feet on footskates slidably engaged with at least one elongated track and grips the pivotable hand levers. The operator then reciprocates the footskates along at least a portion ofthe at least one track while simultaneously reciprocating the pivotable hand levers. The operator has the option to lock the hand levers into a fixed position within the range of motion ofthe operator to provide handle bars. A bridge structure may be added to the locked hand levers to add stability and to provide an additional gripping surface for the operator.

Brief Description of the Drawings In the drawings which illustrate the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the present invention: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a striding exerciser with an upwardly curved track;

Figure 2 is a top view of a striding exerciser; Figure 3 is a front view of a striding exerciser; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary pulley system for interconnecting the footskates on a striding exerciser;

Figure 4A is an exemplary electronic display unit ofthe present striding exerciser;

Figure 5 is a sectional view of footskates for a striding exerciser; Figure 5 A is a sectional view of an alternate footskates having an attitude adjustment mechanism;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of an alternate striding exerciser providing an upper body resistance mechanism;

Figure 7 is a side view of an alternate striding exerciser with pivotable hand levers to provide upper body resistance to the operator; Figure 8 is an alternative embodiment ofthe striding exerciser of Figure 7 in which the pivotable hand levers are located outside the range of motion ofthe operator;

Figure 8A is an alternative embodiment in which the pivotable hand levers are locked in a plurality of position within reach ofthe operator; Figure 8B is an exemplary bridge structure for joining the hand levers of Figure 8 A;

Figure 8C is an exemplary locking mechanism for the pivotable hand levers; Figure 9 is a sectional view of an alternate pulley system for interconnecting footskates on a striding exerciser;

Figure 10 is a sectional view of an exemplary adjustable track support system;

Figure 11 is a sectional view ofthe exemplary adjustable track support system of Figure 10 for modifying the radius of curvature of the elongated track;

Figure 12 is an alternate striding exerciser with a generally horizonal front portion;

Figure 13 is an alternate striding exerciser with a generally horizonal rear portion;

Figure 14 is an alternate striding exerciser with an exemplary height adjustment mechanism;

Figure 15 is an exploded, perspective view of an exemplary bridge structure attachable to hand levers of a generic exercise device; Figure 15 A is a top plan view of the bridge structure of Figure 15 ;

Figure 15B is a bottom plan view ofthe bridge structure of Figure 15;

Figure 15C is a front plan view ofthe bridge structure of Figure 15; Figure 15D is a right side plan view ofthe bridge structure of

Figure 15; Figure 15E is a back plan view ofthe bridge structure of Figure

15;

Figure 15F is a left side plan view ofthe bridge structure of

Figure 15; Figure 16 is perspective view of an exemplary bridge structure attached to the hand levers of a generic exercise device;

Figure 17 is a perspective view ofthe book clips and storage slots ofthe bridge structure of Figure 15;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a clamping structure on the bottom of an exemplary bridge structure;

Figure 19 is a perspective bottom view of hand levers engaged with an exemplary bridge structure;

Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view of an alternate bridge structure attachable to hand bars of a generic exercise device; Figure 21 is perspective bottom view of an exemplary clamping structure for attachment of a bridge structure to handle bars on a generic exercise device;

Figure 22 is perspective bottom view of an exemplary clamping structure immediately prior to engagement with handle bars; and Figure 23 is a perspective bottom view ofthe clamping structure of Figure 22 engaged with handle bars.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments As will be discussed in detail below, the reciprocating footskates on the upwardly curved tracks ofthe present invention provide a number of advantages over the prior art. First, caloric expenditures using the present striding exerciser is approximately twice as great as the caloric expenditures for walking on a level, firm surface at a comparable pace. Second, the impact force as a percentage of body weight generated while using the present striding exerciser is significantly less than the impact force generated while using alternate exercise equipment, such as shuffle-type skiers, stair machines, motorized and manual treadmills, as well as over ground walking. The cardiovascular exercise provided by the present striding exerciser generates virtually no impact to the operator, and as such has proven to be a significant benefit to the elderly, disabled, and individuals in postoperative rehabilitation. Third, the present striding exerciser allows and encourages operators to increase their stride length to a greater degree than ski machines or walking on a flat surface or on a treadmill. Additionally, the long stride length promoted by the present striding exerciser invention is generally not dependent on the height of the operator. This result is contrary to stride length analysis for ski machines and treadmills. A study of 20 subjects was conducted to compare the caloric expenditure as calculated from metabolic data for the present striding exerciser at various speeds and in three different modes of exercising. The three modes of exercising included holding the front rail, using full pendulum arm swings, and wearing wrist weights. For a comparable level of activity, the present striding exerciser burned up to 700 kcal/hr while holding the front rail or swinging the arms, and up to 800 kcal/hr when swinging 1.5 lb. wrist weights through a full range of motion. It is estimated that the caloric expenditure for walking on a variety of terrains burns an average of approximately 350 kcal/hr.

An electromyographic analysis comparing muscle activity while using the striding exerciser and walking on a manual treadmill indicates that the striding exerciser requires greater activation of muscle fibers and consequently greater energy demand through a greater range of motion than is otherwise required during walking. Additionally, the movement ofthe footskates along the upwardly curved tracks requires use of larger muscles ofthe hips, thighs, and buttocks as the primary source of power, rather than the smaller muscles in the lower legs and ankles which are typically utilized during walking. The present striding exerciser permits operators to burn approximately twice the calories as would be consumed during walking.

A study was also conducted to compare the impact force as a percentage of body weight ofthe present striding exerciser with stair machines, shuffle-type ski machines, non-motorized treadmills, motorized treadmills, and overground walking. These prior art devices resulted in between 9 and 53% greater impact force as a percentage of body weight than use ofthe present striding exerciser. Additionally, the force developed while using the striding exerciser was relatively evenly distributed throughout the entire gait cycle, rather than having the spike of force exhibited by the prior art devices at various intervals across the gait cycle. The smooth movement ofthe footskates along the upwardly curved track ofthe striding exerciser results in no airborne, and thus no landing phase, so as to minimize impact on the lower extremities.

Finally, a study was conducted to compare the average stride length ofthe present striding exerciser to use of a motorized treadmill and a ski machine. The average stride length of a subject when exercising on the striding exerciser was 9.6 and 7.4 inches longer (27% and 38% greater, respectively) than when exercising on a ski machine or walking on a treadmill, respectively. Perhaps of greater importance is that the increase in stride length for the subjects using the striding exerciser was not closely correlated with the height ofthe subjects. On the other hand, the stride length ofthe subjects on the treadmill and the ski machine increased only with the height ofthe subject. Consequently, the upwardly curved tracks on the striding exerciser permits and encourages most operators to move through a greater range of motion than achieved on a treadmill or ski machine. Exercising through a greater range of motion is well documented as providing significant advantages in terms of strength gain, flexibility, and resistance to injury.

Referring now to the drawings, several embodiments of a striding exerciser 10 are illustrated Figures 1-5. The striding exerciser 10 has a curved base 12, two footskates 14 which are movably supported on the base 12, and an optional pulley mechanism 16 (see Figure 2) which is operative for moving the footskates 14 in opposite reciprocating motion. The base 12 has a contoured lower side 18, spaced legs 19 for supporting the base 12 on a flat supporting surface, and a contoured upper side 20. The contoured upper side 20 includes two elongated parallel tracks 22 which curve upwardly in a continuous arc. The upward curvature ofthe tracks 22 generally corresponds to the natural swinging arc of a human leg as it pivots about its hip joint.

The tracks 22 may define a constant radius arc or a plurality of radii. Each ofthe tracks 22 includes a center ridge 24 and two spaced grooves 26 on either side ofthe ridge 24 which are adapted for supporting the footskates 14. (see Figure 5). The contoured upper side 20 further includes an elongated central ridge 27 which longitudinally extends between the two tracks 22.

The base 12 may be constructed from various materials including, polymeric materials such as polyethylene using a blow-molding process known in the art. Altematively, rotational molding may be used to provide greater wall thickness to the base 12. It will be understood that the base 12 may be constructed in a variety ways and that the present invention is not limited by the particular method disclosed. For example, the base 12 may be constructed from tubular, extruded, roll formed or stamped metal components, wherein the upwardly curved tracks are formed from parallel rails.

The footskates 14 are generally U-shaped (see Figure 5) and have a horizontal body portion 28 for receiving the operator's foot thereon, two downwardly extending leg portions 30, and four skate wheels 32 which are rotatably mounted to the leg portions 30. The body portion 28 ofthe footskate 14 is received over the center ridge 24 ofthe respective track 22 so that the wheels 32 ride in the spaced grooves 26 on both sides ofthe ridge 24. It can thus be seen that the footskates 14 are movable back and forth along the length ofthe tracks 22. It will be understood that a variety of mechanisms may be substituted for the skate wheels 32, such as linear or curvilinear bearings, low-friction pads, etc.

In an alternate embodiment illustrated in Figure 5A, a plurality of holes 29' are provided in the footskates 14' so that wheels 32' may be located in a variety of positions on downwardly extending leg portions 30'. In particular, the surface angle ofthe foot skates 14' can be adjusted to compensate for variations in stride ofthe operator. In the embodiment disclosed in Figure 5A, the four wheels 32' may be adjusted independently so that the surface ofthe footskate 14' may be level, inclined or declined forward and back, angled to either side, or any combination thereof. It will be understood that the surface ofthe footskates 14' may be adjusted by a variety of other mechanisms without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. For example, a ratcheting device or an eccentric cam may be used to achieve the adjustment ofthe footskates 14'.

Turning now to Figure 2, the pulley mechanism 16 is attached to both footskates 14 for operatively for causing the footskates 14 to reciprocate in opposite directions along the track 22 during use. The pulley mechanism 16 comprises two pulleys 34 which are respectively mounted in depressions 36 formed at the front and rear ends ofthe central ridge 25. A cord 38 is attached to each ofthe footskates 14 and extends around the pulleys 34 to form a continuous loop. More specifically, there is a first cord section 40 which is attached to the rear end of one ofthe footskates 14 and extends around the rear pulley 34 and is attached to the rear end ofthe other footskate 14. Likewise, there is a second cord section 42 which is attached to the front end ofthe first footskate 14 and extends around the front pulley 34 and is attached to the front end ofthe other footskate 14. It can therefore be seen that when one ofthe footskates 14 is moved forward in its track, the other footskate 14 is moved rearwardly in its track. The base 12 is provided with a cover 44 which is releasably mounted over the central ridge 26 to conceal the pulleys 34 and cord sections 40 and 42 from sight and to prevent the operator's feet from becoming entangled with the cord sections 40 and 42 during use. The cover 44 also retains the cord sections 40 and 42 so that they conform to the curved shape ofthe base 12. Various electronics 45 for monitoring and controlling the striding exerciser 10 may be mounted either above or below the cover 44, or at a variety of other locations.

In one embodiment, the electronics 45 are activated when the operator moves a magnetic switch 47 located on a footskate 14 past the electronics 45. The electronics 45 in turn activate electronic display unit 52. Altematively, the magnetic switch 47 may be located on one ofthe pulleys 34 and the electronics located under the pulley 34 to achieve adequate magnetic coupling. The display unit 52 displays elapsed exercise time, operator speed, distance covered, calories burned, and other variable for the operator. The magnetic switch 47 may also be used to monitor the movement ofthe footskates 14 during exercise in real-time so that speed, distance, calories bum, etc. may be measured. The electronics 45 may be coupled to the display unit 52 either by a direct wire connection or via a variety of wireless communication systems, such as infrared or ultrasonic. When the operator stops movement ofthe footskates 14, the electronics 45 will automatically enter a sleep mode. The electronics 45 may be configured to save the prior workout indefinitely or for some predetermined time.

In an altemate embodiment, one ofthe pulleys 34 may be mounted on the shaft of a motor 33. A variable speed DC motor operated by an electronic motor control 45 moves the footskates 14 in a reciprocating motion along the elongated parallel tracks 22. Reversal of direction ofthe footskates 14 is achieved by the electronic motor control 45 or by means of a mechanical linkage having a crankshaft with a connecting rod such that the throw ofthe crankshaft can be varied to permit different stride lengths. The electronic motor control 45 may also control the range of motion ofthe footskates 14, thereby controlling the stride length ofthe operator. In this embodiment, the motor 33 provides at least a portion ofthe power for the operator's leg movement, although it may be configured to provide all ofthe power necessary to move the operator's legs. This embodiment is particularly useful for patients in rehabilitation or those having arthritis. In an altemate embodiment, the footskates 14 may be powered by a pneumatic or hydraulic drive unit.

Alternatively, a variable resistance mechanism 33' may be substituted for the motor 33 to provide variable resistance to the footskates 14. Exemplary variable resistance mechanisms 33' are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,529,194 issued to Haaheim on July 16, 1985 and U.S. Patent No. 5,145,481 issued to Friedebach on September 8, 1992. It will be understood that a variety of resistance mechanisms may be suitable for the present striding exerciser 10. For example, a resistance mechanism such as a friction pad engaged with the center ridge 24 may be incoφorated into each ofthe footskates 14. Providing a resistance mechanism on each footskate 14 permits the operator to independently adjust the level of resistance for each footskate 14. In yet another embodiment, the first and second cords 40, 42 are disengaged and the footskates 14 are permitted to move independently. In this configuration, the striding exerciser 10 would demand greater coordination and balance than required when the footskates 14 are interconnected. It is contemplated that this embodiment would be most useful for operators in good physical condition who desires the additional challenge of independent leg movement. Alternatively, this embodiment may be useful for patients with special rehabilitative needs.

The striding exerciser 10 further includes a set of handlebars generally indicated at 46 which are connected to the front end ofthe base 12. The handlebars 46 include two downwardly extending arm portions 48 which are pivotally connected to the sides ofthe base 12 and a horizontal body portion 50 which is operative for supporting an electronic display unit 52. The pivotal connection ofthe arm portions 48 enables the handlebars 46 to be pivoted downwardly out ofthe way so that the entire exercise device 10 may be more easily transported and stored. In order to maintain the handlebars 46 in a stable and upright position, the sides ofthe base 12 include two triangular depressions 53 which are operative for frictionally receiving circular support members 54 mounted to the arm portions 48. The arm portions 48 ofthe handlebars 46 further include rubber or foam pad hand grips 56 for the operator to grasp during use.

The electronic display unit 52 illustrated in Figure 4A has an LCD 70 for providing the operator with an indication of elapsed exercise time 72, operator speed (in miles per hour) 74, distance covered (in miles) 76, and calories burned 78. The values for speed, distance, and calories are based on the pace set by a cadence beeper or by the actual movement ofthe footskates 14 as measured by the electronics 45 and magnetic switch 47. The electronic display unit 52 is activated by pressing any ofthe buttons 80, 82, 84. A preset exercise time may be programmed by pressing the select button 80 until the arrow next to time 72 is activated and pressing the up or down arrows 82, 84 until the desired time appears in the LCD 70. Altematively, the LCD 70 may count up from zero. Speed 74 may be set by pressing the select button 80 until an arrow next to the speed indicator 74 is activated, and pressing the up or down arrows 82, 84 until the desired speed is displayed by the LCD 70. The electronic display unit 52 provides a cadence beep corresponding to the selected speed. The operator's feet must move through a complete cycle for each cadence beep in order to achieve the displayed speed. Calories burned 78 is determined in part by the speed set by the operator.

Scan mode 86 is automatically engaged after time and speed have been set by the operator. The scan mode automatically switches between time, speed, distance, and calories, sequentially at five-second intervals. The scan mode 86 may be programmed to display the critical exercise variable in between the other variables. For example, if time is selected as the critical variable, the operator's time is displayed in between speed, distance and calories, respectively. The exemplary scan sequence being: time-speed-time-distance-time-calories- time-speed-etc. Altematively, the operator may select speed, distance or calories as the critical variable for display during the scan mode 86.

In use, the operator stands on the footskates 14, grasps the rubber pad hand-grips 56 on the handlebars 46, and reciprocates the footskates 14 back and forth along the upwardly curved tracks 22. While the handlebars 46 are provided to help maintain balance during use, it has been found that the instant striding exerciser 10 so well balances the operator over the base 12 that the use ofthe handlebars 46 may not be required for all operators. In this connection, operators may wish to swing their arms as would be normal when walking and, in addition, to utilize hand weights in order to increase the aerobic benefits.

The upward curvature ofthe tracks 22 generally corresponds with the natural swinging arc ofthe operator's leg, and maintains the operator's torso in a stationary and balanced position over the base 12. The curved tracks 22 allow the operator's legs to naturally pivot around their hip joint without requiring the legs to lift the body or torso upwardly with each stride. Because the legs are not required to continuously lift the operator's weight, there is minimal strain placed on the leg joints, especially the ankles, knees and hip joints. In addition, the stationary position ofthe torso substantially eliminates the back strain commonly associated with repetitive bending and reaching in conventional cross-country ski machines. The combined effect is to virtually eliminate physical stress on both the back and legs ofthe operator, while providing an effective aerobic workout. An altemate embodiment of a striding exerciser 58 is illustrated in

Figure 6. The handlebars 46 are replaced by two pivotable hand levers 60. The hand levers 60 are mounted to the sides ofthe base 12 by means of rotatable couplings (see Figure 8C) which have conventional resistance means for adjusting the resistance level of movement ofthe hand levers 60. The hand levers 60 allow the operator to simultaneously exercise the upper body during use ofthe exerciser 58. The operator simply grasps the hand levers 60 and reciprocates them in opposite directions to the footskates 14. The electronic display unit 52 is supported by center column support 62 attached at the front of the base 12. Switches 61 may be provided on the hand levers 60 for activating and controlling the electronic display unit 52. It will be understood that the switches 61 may be directly wired to the electronic display unit 52 or connected by a variety of wireless systems using radio frequency (RF) or ultrasonic communications signal 63, as is known in the art. It will be understood that the switches 61 may also be used to operate the motor 33 discussed in connection with Figure 2.

Resistance systems known to be suitable for use with the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,145,481 (previously incoφorated) and U.S. Patent No. 5,181,894 issued to Shieng on January 26, 1993. Altematively, a hydraulic or pneumatic piston and rod connected to the hand levers 60 may provide resistance in one or both directions of travel. Each lever 60 may be provided with its own resistance cylinder or they may be interconnected to a single resistance cylinder. A suitable arrangement of control valves and check valve would allow resistance in one or both directions, selectable by the operator. In an altemate embodiment, an elastomeric material may be used to create the resistance force for the levers 60. In particular, shear, tension or compression forces, or some combination thereof, may be created by the levers 60 on a suitable elastomeric material.

Figure 7 illustrates an altemate embodiment ofthe striding exerciser 90 having curved, pivotable hand levers 92 attached to the front portion 94 of a base 96 by a variable resistance system 98. The operator achieves upper body exercise by gripping handle grips 100 on the pivotable hand levers 92 and reciprocating his arms back and forth in opposition to the variable resistance system 98. Preferably, the operator simultaneously reciprocates his feet and arms to achieve a total upper and lower body workout. The pivotable hand levers 92 may be attached to the base 96 in a variety of locations. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the base 96 has a series of attachment points 102 to which the variable resistance system 98 may be connected. It will be understood that the contour ofthe pivotable hand levers 92 illustrated in Figure 7 may not be suitable for use with all attachment points 102 and that pivotable hand levers with different contours may be provided to the operator. Additionally, the pivotable hand levers 92 may be telescoping at a joint 93 so that they can be adjusted for the height ofthe operator and to facilitate shipping and storage.

The pole resistance system may be configured in a variety of ways known to those skilled in the art, such as the pole resistance system disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,145,481 or 5,181,894, previously. Altematively, electro-resistive, hydraulic, pneumatic or elastomeric variable resistance systems may be used. It will also be understood that the pivotable hand levers 92 may be connected to the base 96 ofthe striding exerciser 90 along a center line defined by the cover 44 (see Figure 1). An exemplary embodiment of a center mounted pivotable hand levers is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,145,481. It will be understood that the pivotable hand levers 92 may move independent of one another. Altematively, a mechanical connection (not shown) may be provided for restricting movement ofthe pivotable hand levers 92 so that one hand lever moves forward while the other moves toward the rear at the same speed and through the same degree of travel.

Figure 8 is an altemate embodiment in which the pivotable hand levers 92 of Figure 7 are moved to a forward and locked position out ofthe range of motion ofthe operator 104 using locking mechanism 99. In this embodiment, the operator 104 is permitted to move his arms 106 freely through the full range of motion without interference by the pivotable hand levers 92. The contour of the pivotable hand levers 92 generally corresponds to the contour ofthe base 96, so that they may be folded down parallel to the side ofthe base for storage and shipping, as illustrated in Figure 8.

Figures 8A and 8B illustrate an altemate embodiment in which a locking mechanism 99 is provided to lock the pivotable hand levers 92 in a variety of positions a, b, c proximate the operator 104. In the locked position, the pivotable hand levers 92 operate as handlebars, similar to those disclosed in Figure 1. Providing a plurality of locking positions permits the operator 104 to select the optimum location for the pivotable hand levers 92 based on his or her size, stride length, etc.

A bridge 101 may be mounted to the pivotable hand levers 92 to provide additional stability to the handles and to provide additional gripping surfaces for the operator. The bridge 101 may be used on pivotable hand levers for a variety of exercise devices, and not just the striding exerciser illustrated in Figure 8 A. In the embodiment illustrate in Figures 8 A and 8B, the bridge 101 has a pair of holes 105 into which the pivotable hand levers 92 may be inserted. Tapered, rubberized hand grips 109 firmly locks the bridge 101 to the pivotable hand levers 92. However, it will be understood that a variety of mechanism may be utilized for attaching the bridge 101 to the levers 92 and that the present invention is not limited by the particular embodiment illustrated. As illustrated in Figure 8B, the bridge preferably has a tray 107 for holding items, such as books or beverages.

Figures 15 and 16 are perspective views of an altemate bridge structure 200 for attachment to a variety of exercise devices having a pole-type, hand lever upper body resistance mechanisms. The bridge stmcture 200 includes left and right receiving holes 202, 204 for receipt ofthe pole-type hand levers 206, 208. The bridge stmcture 200 includes a horizonal storage slot 210 for receiving various items, such as portable stereo units, remote-control devices for electronic devices, etc. A book rack 212 having a recessed bottom edge 214 for supporting the operator's reading material is located above the horizonal storage slot 210. The bridge stmcture 200 may be constmcted from a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, stmctural foam or wood. The preferred bridge stmcture 200 is manufactured from polyethylene using a blow-molding process. Altematively, rotational or injection molding may be used to construct the present bridge stmcture 200. The altemate bridge structure 200 is further illustrated in Figures 15A- 15F.

Book clips 216, 218 are independently, pivotally mounted to the bridge stmcture 200 to retaining the operator's reading material to the book rack 212. Fasteners 215 are provided on the bottom ofthe bridge stmcture 200 for retaining the book clips 216, 218. As is best illustrated in Figure 17, the book clips 216, 218 can be rotated along a path "B" to accommodate reading material of a variety of sizes. A groove 217 is provided for retaining the book clips 216, 218 in a fixed position when not in use. The book clips 216, 218 may be constmcted from a variety of flexible, resilient materials, such as plastic or metals.

Generally triangular handle stmctures 220 having triangular handle openings 222 are defined by side handles 224 and front handles 226 along the front edge ofthe bridge stmcture 200. A circular opening 230 is provided between the front handles 226 for receiving a flexible fluid bottle (not shown). It will be understood that the shape and dimensions ofthe circular opening 230 can be altered to accommodate a variety of bottles. A resilient insert may be provided for insertion into the circular opening 230 to accommodate smaller diameter bottles. The operator can grip the front handles 226, the side handles 224 or the top edge ofthe book rack 212. The operator may also grip the tops ofthe pole-type hand levers 206, 208 extending above the bridge stmcture 200 illustrated in Figure 16.

Figures 15 and 18 illustrate clamping mechanisms 232, 234 located in recesses 243 in the bottom ofthe bridge stmcture 200 for engagement with the pole-type hand levers 206, 208. Threaded members 236 with gripping knobs 238 extend through holes 240 in the outside edge ofthe bridge stmcture 200 into corresponding holes in clamping members 242, 244. The recess 243 is preferably large enough to permit the clamping members 242, 244 to pivot along a path "C," as will be discussed below. A strip nut 246 is located in a recess in the clamping members 242, 244 for engagement with the threaded member 236. The strip nut 246 is preferably rectangular to prevent rotation within the recess. The clamping members 242, 244 include a pivoting surface 250 that pivotally engages with a corresponding surface 252 in the recess 243. To operate the clamping mechanism 232, 234, the operator rotates the knobs 238 clockwise to draw the clamping members 242, 244 toward the receiving holes 202, 204 along a rotational path "C" around the pivoting surface 250. In the preferred embodiment, the recess in the clamping members 242, 244 is large enough so that the strip nuts 246 can move laterally to permit rotation around the pivoting surface 250. Angled engagement surfaces 254 on the clamping members 242, 244 frictionally engage with the pole-type hand levers 206, 208. Rotating the knobs 238 counterclockwise releases the pole-type hand levers 206, 208 so that the bridge stmcture 200 can be removed.

Figure 19 is a bottom, perspective view ofthe bridge stmcture 200 engaged with rubberized handle grips 205 on the exemplary pole-type hand levers 206, 208. It will be understood that the clamping mechanism 232, 234 may grip anywhere along the length ofthe pole-type hand levers 206, 208. In this configuration, the threaded members 236 have been rotated to firmly engage the clamping members 242, 244 with the poles 206, 208. Figures 20 and 21 illustrate an altemate bridge stmcture 300 for use with conventional handle bars 46, such as those disclosed on the exercise device of Figure 1. The bridge stmcture 300 is similar to the stmcture disclosed in Figure 15, except that the left and right receiving holes 202, 204 have been eliminated. In particular, the bridge stmcture 300 includes a triangular handle stmcture 220', a horizonal storage slot 210', a book rack 212', and book clips 216', 218'. Recesses 243' are provided in the bottom ofthe bridge stmcture 300 for receiving clamping members 242', 244'.

As discussed in connection with the bridge stmcture 200, a pair of threaded members 236' with gripping knobs 238' extend through holes 240' in the outside edge ofthe bridge structure 300 and engage with strip nuts 246' located in a recesses (not shown) in the clamping members 242', 244'. The clamping members 242', 244' include a pivoting surface 250' that pivotally engages with a corresponding surface 252' in the recess 243'. Rotation ofthe knobs 238' clockwise draws the clamping members 242', 244' toward the outside edge ofthe bridge stmcture 300 along a rotational path "C" so that the engagement surfaces 254' engage with handle bars 48' (see Figures 22 and 23).

Figures 22 and 23 illustrate the process of attaching the bridge structure 300 to handle bars 48'. The bridge stmcture is located so that the engagement surfaces 254' ofthe clamping members 242', 244' are opposite the inside edges ofthe handle bars 48'. The operator rotates the knobs 238' clockwise to draw the engagement surfaces 254' into contact with the handle bars 48'. The clamping members 242', 244' create an opposing force "F" on the handle bars 48' to retain the bridge stmcture 300 in place. Removal ofthe bridge stmcture 300 is accomplished by reversing the above steps. It will be understood that a variety of clamping stmctures may be suitable for releasably attaching the bridge stmcture 300 to different types of handle bar structures and that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 8C illustrates an exemplary locking mechanism 99 for locking the pivotable hand levers 92 in various fixed position. The locking mechanism 99 is mounted to a plate 150 for attachment to the exercise device. The pivotable hand levers 92 may be moved forward and back, as well as laterally outward relative to the exercise device. The locking mechanism 99 includes a disc 152 mounted to the bottom end of each pivotable hand lever 92. Inner and outer friction plates 154, 156 are located on opposite sides ofthe disc 152, respectively. The disc 152 and friction plates 154, 156 are held between inner and outer plates 158, 160 by a bolt 162 and locking nut 164 combination inserted through a center bore in each ofthe components. The locking nut 164 is threaded so that variable amounts of friction may be imposed on the disc 152.

The inner plate 158 is mounted to plate 150 by a hinge pin 166 to permit lateral outward movement ofthe pivotable hand lever 92. A torsional spring 168 is preferably mounted on the hinge pin 166 to bias the pivotable hand lever 92 laterally inward toward the exerciser device. A locking pin 170 is provided for insertion into any ofthe plurality of locking pin holes 172 extending through the outer plate 160, frictional plates 154, 156, disc 152, and inner plate 158. It will be understood that the locking pin holes 172 may be located in a variety of locations extending around the perimeter ofthe components 152, 154, 156, 158, 160. For example, the holes 174 is particularly useful for locking the pivotable hand levers 92 in the forward position illustrated generally in Figure 8. It will be understood that a variety of stmctures may be used to achieve the locking function discussed above. For example, a spring loaded stracture may be located on the outer plate 160 that biases the locking pin 170 either toward or away from the locking mechanism 99.

It will be understood that the present locking mechanism 99 and bridge 101 may be used with a variety of exercise equipment having movable hand levers for providing upper body resistance to the operator and that application is not limited to the present striding exerciser. For example, a number of ski machines and treadmill devices that provide hand levers may be modified to include the present locking mechanism and bridge, such as the device disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,145,481 and U.S. Patent No. 4,529,194 issued to Haaheim on July 16, 1985; U.S. Patent No. 4,948,121 issued to Haaheim et al. on August 14, 1990; U.S. Patent No. 4,813,667 issued to Watterson on March 21, 1989; U.S. Patent No. 5,181,894 issued to Shieng on January 26, 1993; U.S. Patent No. Des. 344,557 issued to Ashby on February 22, 1994; and U.S. Patent No. 5,110,1 17 issued to Fisher et al. on May 5, 1992.

Figure 9 illustrates an altemate pulley configuration 16' located at the front and back of striding exerciser 110. Pulleys 34' are permitted to move freely or "float" up and down along shafts 35. The shafts 35 allow the pulleys 34' to remain aligned with the changing position ofthe cord 41 as the footskates 14 travel from the low center position to their maximum elevated position toward the ends ofthe striding exerciser 110. It will be understood that a spool with a larger hub region may be substituted for the pulleys 34'.

Figure 10 is an altemate embodiment ofthe present striding exerciser 112 with an adjustable track support system 113. Elongated parallel tracks 22a are releasably attached to a contoured lower side 18a. A rear track support 114 and front track support 116 threadably mounted onto a threaded member 118 support the elongated parallel track 22a. The end portions ofthe threaded member 118 preferably have left- and right-handed threads, respectively, so that rotation ofthe threaded member 118 causes the front and rear track supports 116, 114 to simultaneously move toward or away from the middle portion 120 ofthe striding exerciser. The elongated track 22a may be constmcted from a variety of semi-rigid materials that are flexible enough to bend to the desired radius, yet resilient enough to support the reciprocating footskates 14 without substantial deflection. Suitable materials include laminated wood, fiberglass, Kevlar reinforced resin, resilient metals or combinations thereof. Figure 11 illustrates an altemate configuration ofthe adjustable track support system 113 of Figure 10 in which the front and rear track supports 116, 114 have been moved toward the middle portion 120 ofthe striding exerciser 112 so that the radius of curvature ofthe elongated track 22a is decreased. The configuration of Figures 10 and 11 permits an operator to alter the radius of curvature of the elongated track 22a to match the swing arc of the operator. In an altemative embodiment, two separate threaded members may be provided so that the front and rear track supports 116, 114 may be adjusted independently. In yet another embodiment, the front and rear track supports 116, 114 may be manually moved and releasably attached to the contoured lower side 18a in order to adjust the radius of curvature ofthe elongated track 22a. In an altemate embodiment, the height ofthe front and rear track supports 116, 114 remain fixed and the middle portion 120 ofthe elongated tracks 22a is raised and lowered to achieve the desired radius of curvature.

Figure 12 is an altemate embodiment of a striding exerciser 130 having an elongated parallel track 22b generally horizontal along a front portion 132 thereof. The operator preferably grips handle grips 56 on the handlebars 46 to neutralize forward momentum due to the generally horizonal front portion 132. Figure 13 is an altemate embodiment of a striding exerciser 138 in which the elongated parallel track 22c is generally horizontal along the rear portion 140 thereof. Again, handle grips 56 on the handlebars 46 may be gripped by the operator to counteract any rearward momentum due to the generally horizonal rear portion 140. An adjustable brace 55 with a sliding/locking clamp 57 may optionally be provided to reinforce the handlebars 46. In the embodiments in Figures 12 and 13, the handlebars 46 preferably are pivotally attached to the striding exercisers 130, 138 so that the position ofthe handle grips can be adjusted by the operator as illustrated by the arrow.

Figure 14 is an altemate embodiment ofthe striding exerciser 10 of Figures 1-5 in which a vertically adjustable support 142 is attached to the front portion 146. It will be understood that the vertically adjustable support 142 may pivot according to the arrow "A" or telescope according to the arrow "B." A roller 144 may be located under the telescoping support 142 to facilitate raising the front portion 146 and for moving the device. In the raised configuration illustrated in Figure 14, the striding exerciser 10 simulates the embodiment illustrated in Figure 13. In particular, the rear portion 148 is generally horizontal with respect to the steeper incline ofthe front portion 146. It will be understood that the telescoping support 142 may altematively be located proximate the rear portion 148. While there is shown and described herein certain specific stmcture embodying the invention, it will be manifest to those skilled in the art that various modification and rearrangements ofthe arts may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe underlying inventive concept and that the same is not limited to the particular forms herein shown and described except insofar as indicated by the scope ofthe appended claims.

Claims

We claim:

1. A striding exercise device having: a base with at least one elongated track defining a continuous arc that curves upward along at least one end portion thereof, at least a portion of said continuous arc having a curvature generally corresponding to a swing arc of an operator's leg; two footskates slidably engaged with the at least one track, the footskates being operable for receiving feet ofthe operator thereon, wherein the operator reciprocates the feet back and forth so that the footskates move in reciprocating motion along at least a portion ofthe continuous arc; a pair of pivotable hand levers rotatably connected to the base by a resistance system for providing upper body resistance to the operator in a first operating mode; and a locking mechanism for locking the pivotable hand levers in a plurality of fixed positions within a range of motion of the operator in a second operating mode so that the pivotable hand levers operate as handle bars when in the fixed positions.

2. The exercise device of claim 1 further comprising a bridge stmcture with clamping means for connection to the pivotable hand levers when in the second operating mode.

3. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a variable resistance system.

4. The exercise device of claim 3 wherein the variable resistance mechanism comprises a friction based variable resistance system.

5. The exercise device of claim 2 wherein the bridge stmcture includes receiving means for receiving the pivotable hand levers.

6. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the locking mechanism further comprises means for locking the pivotable hand levers in a forward position out of a range of motion ofthe operator.

7. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the pivotable handle levers include a wireless communication means for controlling an electronic display unit.

8. The exercise device of claim 7 wherein the electronic display unit includes an infrared receiver and the wireless communication means comprises an infrared transmitter.

9. The exercise device of claim 7 wherein the electronic display unit includes an ultrasonic receiver and the wireless communication means comprises an ultrasonic transmitter.

10. The exercise device of claim 1 further including an electronic display unit that automatically displays at a fixed interval at least the operator's speed, distance traveled, and calories burned.

11. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the electronic display unit displays elapsed time in-between displaying the operator's speed, distance and calories burned, respectively.

12. An accessory for an exercise device, the exercise device having a base with a lower body exercise mechanism, pivotable hand levers for providing dynamic upper body resistance to the operator in a first operating mode, and a locking mechanism for releasably retaining the pivotable hand levers in a fixed, stationary position in a second mode; the accessory comprising a bridge structure having receiving means for releasable engagement with the pivotable hand levers when in the second stationary mode.

13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the second stationary mode comprises a plurality of fixed positions within a range of motion ofthe pivotable hand levers.

14. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the bridge stmcture includes a handle for gripping by an operator.

15. The accessory of claim 14 wherein the handle comprises triangular gripping surface means providing a plurality of gripping surfaces for gripping.

16. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the bridge structure includes storage means for retaining articles.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the storage means comprises a tray and clip means for retaining an article to the tray.

18. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the receiving means comprises a pair of angled receiving holes for receiving the pivotable hand levers and clamping means for frictional engagement with the pivotable hand levers.

19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein the clamping means comprises a clamping member pivotally retained in a recess in the bridge stmcture by a threaded member.