Portable multipurpose whole body exercise device

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/223,381, filed Jul. 7, 2009.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of exercise and therapeutic equipment and more particularly to a portable whole body exercise apparatus with multiple purpose use as a core fitness development apparatus, as an accessory to general fitness, Pilates exercises, as a therapeutic and/or rehabilitative aid, to aid with general stretching, body rolling, balance training, or to perform specific sports related exercises, such as, for example, golf exercises, tennis exercises, volleyball exercises, or sailing exercises.

[0003] There are numerous exercise equipment options for home use on the market, all of which target specific or multiple muscle groups, but none that are known by the inventors that can be utilized in the numerous ways that the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be, for general fitness, therapeutic aid, rehabilitative aid, and exercise.

[0004] One such device is a Multi-purpose Exercise Device U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,248 to Vani (1997), comprising a cylindrical pillow (12) and a pair of handles (14) that extends beyond the lateral portions of the pillow. Each handle is attached to the ends of flexible tubing (16) that runs through the core of the cylindrical pillow. While you can perform some exercises with the device you are limited in range of motion and orientation of resistance.

[0005] Another device is U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,175 to Lin (2005) which discloses an Exercise Balance Trainer comprising an elongated hard board (20) connected to a resilient ball body (10). The board has a plurality of through holes (24) that may receive flexible ropes (31, 32). The flexible ropes have handgrips (313, 312) attached to one end. The body ball is a dome shape resilient body attached to one side of the board. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device provide an improved way of exercising with a cylindrical roller that the spine can be aligned with during exercise with or without balancing.

[0006] Another device U.S. Pat. No. 6,634,998 to Siaperes (2003) is a Multipurpose Exercise Apparatus that is rectangular in shape with a box-like body and a hinged cover that can be raised in order for the user to be reclined on the device while performing resistance type exercises. The resistance is supplied by bands that attach to the side of the box frame, but the device is cumbersome and not easily transportable.

[0007] Another apparatus known as a Manually Operated Therapeutic Roller and Exercise Device, U.S. Pat. No. 3,298,687 discloses a cylindrical roller made of hard material hollow core with a foam rubber covering glued to the roller and a flexible rubber sheet secured over the foam rubber covering. A cylindrical rotatable shaft is secured to each end of the cylindrical roller that allows for rotational motion between the core and shaft. Extending through a socket in each end of the shaft is a grip handle that is attached to an elastic cord. The elastic cord extends from said first socket internally through the shaft to a return pulley secured to the opposite socket and is attached to the opposite internal lateral surface of said first socket. This device is also limited in capability because the elastic cords are in fixed locations and cannot be relocated for increased exercises.

[0008] Another device is known as a foam roller. The foam roller is well known to the fitness and rehabilitation industry and is seen in nearly every gym today. The foam roller is used for stretching and flexibility improvement as well as for rehab of the pine, core trunk muscles, and limbs. While a foam roller is easily transportable it is limited in what exercises can be done with the roller alone, whereas the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device provide attachable accessories which can be utilized for a wide range of exercises.

[0009] Another style of exercise, Pilates, is a form of exercise that develops and strengthens core muscles by conducting certain movements of the body and limbs with applied resistance and in particular physiological posture to attain improved postural control and core strength. Exercises are conducted that focus on core muscles and muscle control during prescribed movements with the use of proper breathing techniques in order to strengthen muscles and prevent injury. Injury recovery is one of the key goals of the Pilates method.

[0010] Disclosed embodiments of the current invention incorporate a unique configuration that allows for a wide range of general fitness, Pilates type, therapeutic, rehabilitative, and core strengthening exercises for the beginner all the way up to one advanced in the art of fitness Pilates and/or rehabilitative movements or exercises.

[0011] Existing equipment used for Pilates exercises are large and expensive and typically what you would find in a Pilates studio, not in one's home or with someone on the go like personal trainers. The ability to perform Pilates-type exercises while traveling would also be a tremendous benefit to those whose work life takes them away from home and their Pilates studio.

[0012] One such piece of equipment is known as the Pilates Reformer. The Reformer is a large device used for core strengthening exercises. The device is the size of a twin bed and is meant to be stationary, not portable. The device is constructed much like a bed frame with the dynamic portions secured to the inside of the frame enabling use for different Pilates exercises. This type of device is to be used for Pilates workouts in the studio or private gym setting and cannot be transported without great effort.

[0013] Another apparatus used for Pilates exercise, is known as the Cadillac. This type of device is another large device that is designed to be used in the studio or other stationary setting. It has a similar base frame to the Reformer, although it is taller and also has extension bars that run vertically off of each corner of the base frame, with a cross bar connected at the top of each vertical bar. Certain exercises and stretching routines are performed in conjunction with these extension bars, but again this large device is used in the studio setting and is very costly.

[0014] Thus, there is a need for a portable apparatus that allows individuals to perform general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises in the comfort of their own home or while traveling. Furthermore, there is a need for such an apparatus that is affordable and can be used within the personal trainer or rehabilitation setting or in the traditional gym class setting for group training.

[0015] Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device have the ability to store accessories which are easily removed and configured to perform a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can easily be transported with minimal effort. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can also easily be setup with minimal effort. A wide range of adaptable accessories can also be utilized with the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device that will enable the user to perform a wide range of exercises.

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device which can be used to perform a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is made of a rigid tube, sometimes referred to as a “roller,” in the range of 5 to 8 inches in diameter and 3 to 4 feet in length. The rigid tube may be made of hard plastic, aluminum or another rigid material and must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the user when lying along the length of the tube, when standing or when kneeling on the tube. The wall thickness of the tube may be in the range from ⅛″ to ½″ depending on the material used.

[0017] The center portion of the outer surface of the rigid tube is covered with an interchangeable resilient material such as foam or rubber, which can range in thickness from ½″ to 2″. The resilient material will provide a cushioning interface between the rigid roller surface and the body of the user. The cover may be interchanged with resilient material of different firmness and thickness depending upon the preference of the user. The ends of the rigid tube portion of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device extend beyond the resilient covering, and are sometimes referred to herein as “exposed” or “extruded” ends. The exposed ends have holes and notches to receive different types of resistance attachments. Such attachments might be rigid extension bars with Variable Resistance Modules (VRM). In an exemplary embodiment, the attachments can be extracted out from inside of the rigid core of the tube and folded out into receivable notches.

[0018] Another attachment might be hollow rods with resistance bands with hand loops that run through the hollow center of the rod. Direct flexible attachments such as bungee cord or elastic bands could also be attached directly to the holes in the exposed ends of the rigid core. Thus the user has a wide range of options for the various attachment mechanisms depending upon the individual's needs or exercise practice.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device includes retractable extensions bars that withdraw from the hollow rigid core and fold outward perpendicular to the long axis of the core roller. The extension bars have a Variable Resistance Module (VRM), that are removable and can attach to the ends of said extension bars or anywhere along said extension bar. Other resistance mechanisms could also be attached to the ends of said extension bars, to allow for a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises.

[0020] In this exemplary embodiment, two sets of extension bars are juxtaposed within each end of the hollow core of the roller and slide within a channel member that is attached to the inner surface of the rigid roller. The channels have slots in both legs of each channel that receive a retention pin that is attached to the end of each extension bar and about which each extension bar pivots. The extension bars are withdrawn from the center of the rigid tube and fold outward and perpendicular to the axis of the core roller.

[0021] When not in use, the extension bars fold back toward themselves and slide back inside the hollow core of the tube. Removable end caps may be placed over the ends of the roller to close each end and to secure the extension bars during transportation. A shoulder strap or a carrying case with shoulder strap may be used to assist with easy transport.

[0022] Another exemplary embodiment has extension bars 12 to 24 inches in length that store loosely inside the core roller and may be removed and secured through holes in the exposed ends of the core roller. Swivel brackets allow for a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) or other removable resistance mechanisms, including exercise bands, to be attached to the extension bars for resistance training exercises.

[0023] Resistance bands made of flexible resilient material in narrow sheet form may also be connected directly to the ends of the core roller, with the extension bars removed, or to the extension bars for general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, stretching, resistance training, therapeutic or rehabilitative exercises.

[0024] An additional exemplary embodiment has a rigid board with a through hole cut out to receive the rigid end of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. The rigid board acts to stabilize the core roller. Holes and notches are provided along the periphery of the board to receive high stretch bands for resistance exercises. The rigid stabilization board could come in various shapes and sizes. Several exemplary embodiments are described.

[0025] Other accessories may be provided that could assist the user with exercising as well as for storage and transportation of the device.

[0026] One such accessory is stabilizing wedges which fit under the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and stabilize the roller while performing exercises. The stabilization wedges would be made of firm material with a flat surface that engages the floor and a semi-circular surface that engages the roller surface to help stabilize the roller during use.

[0027] Another accessory is a roller floor stand, which is used to hold the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in a vertical position. Certain exercises could be performed with the roller in the vertical position. The floor stand would also allow for easy access with minimal floor space coverage during non-use.

[0028] Additional accessories can include a pelvis supporting pad, which can be positioned between the roller and a user to support the pelvic region, and a stability box, which can be provided over the roller to provide a larger and more stable supporting surface for a user to sit or lie upon.

[0029] In an alternate embodiment, a removable and storable extension bar is provided, which can be selectively locked in place at an open end of the roller by using a removable and lockable end cap that is inserted into the open end of the roller.

[0066] It should be noted that the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, but instead are drawn to provide a better understanding of the components thereof, and are not intended to be limiting in scope, but rather to provide exemplary illustrations. It should further be noted that the figures illustrate exemplary embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and the components thereof, and in no way limit the structures or configurations of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof according to the present disclosure.

[0067] A. Context of Various Embodiments

[0068] The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is designed for use by persons who want to perform general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic, and rehabilitative exercises. Some embodiments encompass less than portable features and are designed to be accompaniments for the home, studio or outdoor use. The basic unit is designed to be portable with extending attachments for easy setup and use.

[0069] Since there are a large range of human physiques, there is a need for larger size apparatus for individuals greater than 6 feet, 3 inches tall. The larger model would be longer in length and larger in diameter, but would have the same extension and attachment features as the basic device. Additionally, a smaller model could be provided for use by persons of less than average size.

[0070] B. Detailed Description of Various Embodiments

[0071] The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be utilized in different configurations depending upon which types of exercising or stretching is required. For example, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with extension bars in their stored position. The rigid core roller 11 is covered by a resilient covering 12 over the middle outer surface of the roller with the extents (or extruded ends) of the rigid portion 11 exposed. The resilient covering 12 is attached to the outer surface of core 11, and can be changed out after extensive wear. Each end of the rigid core 11 has notches 20 and holes 21 for receiving tension bands and extension bars. The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in this configuration can be utilized for general fitness, Pilates, stretching and other exercises typical to a foam roller.

[0072] A side perspective of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with lateral extension bars 13a and 13b extracted on one end of the core roller 11 and nested in notches 20 is shown in FIG. 2. Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) 15a and 15b are attached to extension bars 13a and 13b via the Swivel Bracket 14a and 14b. Hand or foot loops 16a and 16b are connected to a pull cord inside the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 15a and 15b for resistance exercises. The Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 15a and 15b can be configured to provide selectable incremental resistance in ranges of, for example, 3, 6, and 9 pounds of resistance, or for example, in ranges of 5, 10, and 15 pounds of resistance, or any other suitable incremental weight ranges.

[0073] A side perspective of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with both lateral extension bars 13a and 13b extracted and vertical extension bar 17a placed in hole 21a at one end of the rigid core roller 11 is shown in FIG. 3. Resistance mechanism 15c and 15d are securely attached to vertical extension bar 17a and can be used via hand or foot loops 16c and 16d for overhead strengthening exercises when the user is laying face up lengthwise on top of the core roller with head adjacent to vertical extension bar 17a.

[0074] The cylindrical shape of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device allows for advanced users to perform exercises with the Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) while balancing on the core roller. For users that are less apt for that level of exercise, stabilization wedges 30 and 31 are provided. These are used to stabilize the roller while lying on the roller lengthwise and using the Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism or the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) for strengthening exercises. The wedges can each be formed from a single rectangular block having a generally semi-circular cut out along a longitudinal side thereof to accommodate the circumference of the roller. Alternatively, the wedges can be formed of two mirror image shaped pieces that when placed end to end have the same general configuration of the single block wedge.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 4, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device includes lateral extension bars, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, and vertical extension bars, 17a and 17b in position at both ends of portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. Additionally, stabilization wedges 30 and 31 can be provided to prevent the roller from moving on the supporting surface.

[0076] One of the truly unique features to this exemplary embodiment is the storability of the extension bars. FIG. 5 is a perspective cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device showing extension bars 13a and 13b in their extracted position. Extension bars 13a and 13b can slide within channels 40a and 40b, and can be secured to channel 40a and 40b by pins 42a and 42b. Pins 42a and 42b slide in slots 41a and 41b respectively to secure extension bars within the core roller.

[0077] FIGS. 6 and 7 are top cross section views showing extension bars 13a and 13b in partially extracted, and fully retracted positions without Swivel Brackets or Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism, or a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) attached.

[0078] FIG. 8 shows the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with removable end caps 46 used for storage and transportation of the roller.

[0079] FIG. 9 shows the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in a carrying bag for easy transport.

[0080] FIGS. 10a-h show six types of exercise that can be performed on the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. For example, a triceps exercise is shown in FIG. 10b, an abdominal/oblique cross exercise is shown in FIG. 10c, a parallel toes exercise is shown in FIG. 10d, a seated row exercise is shown in FIG. 10e, a butterfly (“pec fly”) exercise is shown in FIG. 10f, a “seated rotating swing” exercise is shown in FIG. 10g, and a standing squat exercise is shown in FIG. 10h. The inventors envision numerous exercises that can be performed but are not shown here. For example, as listed in Table 1, various types of warm up exercises, stretches, sport specific exercises (for example golf or tennis swing exercises), and general fitness exercises can be performed.

[0081]

TABLE 1
Exercise Type	Description
Warm Up #1:	Roll Down
	Bend and Strengthen Knees
	Come to Knees
	Round and Stretch—Cat stretch
	Cross and Swivel to back to roller
	Option #1 Bent Knees
	Option #2 Straight Knees
	Roll Back
	Bend Knees
	Basic Ab Curl
	Ab Curl with Rotation
Warm Up #2:	Roll Down to pyramid
	Leg Switches
	Pyramid with Roll back
	Bend knees to roll over to
	Ankles on Roller to
	Roll Back
	Full Roll Ups
	Option #1 Spine Twist
	Option #2 Pendulum
	Single Leg taps (Includes chest lift)
	Single Leg Tap with rotation
	Option #1 Bent Knee
	Option #2 Straight Leg
Miscellaneous:	Teaser prep sitting
	Ab Curl sitting
	Oblique curl sitting
	Tilt
	Round-about
	Ab-punches—Sitting, standing
	Pec fly and pec press-Sitting, standing, supine
	Single arm pec fly
	Single arm pec press
	Up Pulses Abs—oblique slide with long arms
	Down Pulse Abs
	Half circle abs w/arms
	Split squat biceps
	Split squat shoulders
	Split squat hammer curl
	Standing cross deltoid pull
	Standing chest expansion
	Standing leg extension
	Side-line leg press
	Side-line clamshells
	Side-line oblique twist
	Kneeling arm series
	Side-line oblique reach/posterior deltoid reach
	Side-line oblique crunch
	Side-line oblique crunch with leg
	extension/retraction
	Single Leg crosses with low back on roller
Side Sitting:	Beg
	Adduction
	Abduction
	Push and pull
	Arms
	Cross pull bent arm
	Cross pull straight arm
	Triceps
	Rotation
	Swing
	External Rotation
	Internal Rotation
Side Lying:	Butt Buster Series/Side Plank
	Single leg
	Leg Extension
	Single leg circles
	Mermaid
	Superman
	Swan
Sports:	Tennis:
	Underhand
	Backhand
	Overhead Serve
	Basketball
	Jumpshot
	Golf
	Swing - - - Standing, Side Lying, Sitting
	Standing side:
	Squats—golf swing
Perpendicular	Mermaid series
to Roller:	Mermaid with pushups
(Lateral Flexion	Mermaid with ab crunch
end of series)	Mermaid with back/single arm back pulses
	Superman with lifted arms
	Back Extension
	Side—single leg series
	Plank—with trunk rotation
	Side plank—with leg in
	Pushups
	Tricep pushup
	Balance Hinges
	Dancer Balance Beam Series
	Walking—front and back
Standing facing	Arms:
extension arm:	Mid row
	Rear deltoid
	Biceps
	Chest extension
	Anterior Deltoid
	Medial Deltoid
	Single Arm
	Double Arm
	With Rotation of Arms
	Standing Hundred
	Lunge with rotation
	Standing hip work:
	Extension
	Extension with external rotation
	Attitude
	Circles
	Step up
	Side Step
	Mini squats—single leg
	Full single leg squat
	Hip extension neutral and extension rotation
	Hip hike
	Curtsey lunge
	Rear walking
	Circles
	Full ½ circle with adductor
	Donkey kicks
	See Saw
	Clock
	Split lunge chest expansion
	Squat
	Biceps
	Goal post
	Back extension reach squat
	Calf raises + extension rotation in arms
	Bent elbow
	Straight Elbow
	Prances
	3 lb only—feet around roller inner thigh “on”
	Arm series
	Parallel feet
	Extension rotation feet
	“Swami”
Sitting facing	Chest Exp.
extension arm:	Wrists, rolling wrists
Both Arms/One	Biceps/biceps with one arm, then switch
Arm	Triceps
	Rowing Back 1
	Leg position
	1, 2, 3, 4 etc.
	Stand and row
	Foot position
	1, 2, 3, 4 etc.
	Row with rotation
	Changing leg positions
	Deltoids from strap tape
	Cross pull
	Cross pull bent elbows
	Ab
	Basic mini rollups
	With arms reaching
	With rotation
	Pike Prep
	Pike sitting
	One arm/both arms
	Pike one leg sitting
	Teaser prep with arms in straps
Stretches-Do in	Spine stretch sitting
both sitting	Spine stretch with one arm and rotation
directions to	Spinal rotation/hands clasped
assist	Spine twist with arms in goalpost/straight arms
	The saw
	Thigh stretch kneeling with straps
	External rotation with shoulder
	With rotation of body
	Straight arms to bent arms
	Rear deltoid, tricep press kneeling
	Triceps deltoids with back extension into wide V
	Bend arms, straight arms
Different	Butterfly position, cross legged, one leg straight,
positions	one leg bent, etc.
with legs and	Balance series: Cross legged, butterfly, etc. both
feet on the	arms in straps raising arms high to low, side to side.
roller:
Kneeling on	Kickbacks
roller: Prone	Leg Extension
facing VRM:	Lateral leg extension
	External rotation
	Internal rotation with opposite strap on foot.
	Straps on knees/legs for froggie back, fire hydrants
	etc.
Sitting facing	Punching—Round back
away from	Upper cut
extension arm:	Prep
	Jab
	Speed bag
	Fly
	Shoulders
	Triceps
	Back extension - - - Straddle kneeling over roller
	Child's pose
	Shoulder push
	Breast stroke prep
	Abs sitting—
	Full roll up
	Feet Down
	Crunches
	Feet up progression
	Round back abs series
	Straight arms and legs
	Variation arms
	Variation legs
	Supine and sitting
	Articulation abs series
	Teaser prep
	Teaser prep 1 leg
Kneeling facing	Single leg
extension arm:	Kickback
	Straight leg lift
	Bent knee extension
	Lateral adduction
	Kneeling (crunch)
Double Kneel	Chest Exp
Feet on roller	Delts
toes/feet off	Lateral row
roller	Cross arm delt pull
	Rotation pull
	Thigh stretch
	Pelvic tuck
Kneeling facing	Hamstring lift
away from	Heel to glute
extension arm	Single leg straight lift
	Reverse single leg curl
	Pyramid with leg lift
	Push up with leg lift
	Cross body pull
	Arm circles
	Triceps
Supine	Shoulders on roller
Perpendicular	Chest Lift
	Chest Lift with leg extension
	Add oblique twist
	Hips on side
	2 (sides) corkscrew both feet
	Reverse curl
	Roll over
	(adduction) single
	Ab series
	Bridge
Supine Parallel	Bicycle
to Roller:	Single leg hip series—Circles
	Walking
	Frog
	Reverse Crunch
	Adductor
	Double leg circles
	Short spine
	Footwork
	Toe prances
	Toe Taps
	Calves

[0082] As can be seen from the exemplary exercises listed in Table 1, the numerous accessories, which can and do fit within the core of the roller to increase the portability of the exercise device, and the numerous configurations of exemplary embodiments of the portable exercise device provide an increased number of exercise options that can be performed using the exercise device, and thus add to the versatility of the basic device.

[0083] Other embodiments that have been envisioned by the inventors are also provided. One such embodiment is in FIG. 11a which includes extension bars that are stored loosely inside the core roller, removed and placed in holes at the end of the rigid core roller. Tension bands may be secured to holes in the ends of the extension bars for resistance exercises.

[0084] FIG. 11b shows extension bars with Swivel Brackets and Variable Resistance Modules shown in various storage positions inside the core roller.

[0085] Another embodiment shown in FIG. 12 is a stabilization board 32 with a hole cut out to receive one of the rigid end portions of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, and can be used to assist in supplying additional stabilization of the roller during use. Tension bands may be placed in holes 33 or secured around the back of the stabilization and engage with notches 34 on said stabilization board for additional resistance exercises.

[0086] The shape of the stabilization board 32 in FIG. 12 can vary to be rectangular or even circular with a flat edge that engages the floor during use. Retaining pin 35 placed in hole 21 on the end of the rigid core would keep the stabilization board from sliding off the end of the rigid core roller 11 during use.

[0087] Another accessory is shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. A floor stand 36 may be employed to hold the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device vertical for use with certain types of exercise or to simply store the exercise device while taking up less floor space.

[0088] In another exemplary embodiment, FIG. 15a shows a perspective view of the Swivel Bracket 14 attached to the Variable Resistance Module 15, including the resistance changing knob.

[0089] FIG. 15b shows a front, side & bottom view of the Swivel Bracket 14 attached to the Variable Resistance Module 15.

[0090] C. Alternate Embodiments

[0091] An alternate embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is shown in FIGS. 16-21b. In this embodiment, which has substantially similar construction to previously described embodiments, a rigid core roller 50 having an interchangeable resilient covering 52 is provided.

[0092] As seen in FIG. 16, the rigid core roller 50 has extruded (open) ends that extend beyond the ends of the resilient covering 52 in the longitudinal direction thereof. One open end of the rigid roller 50 can be closed by a dummy cap 54 that is not intended to be easily removed. The dummy cap 54 can be integrally formed with the roller 50, or may be separately formed, and may be generally permanently attached to the open end of the roller, for example, by adhesive bonding or by rivets. The other open end 56 of the rigid roller 50 can be selectively closed by a removable and lockable cap 58.

[0093] The details of the removable and lockable cap 58 closing the open end of the roller 50 are shown in FIGS. 17-18b, and will be further discussed below.

[0094] A removable extension bar 64 is furnished for positioning at the open end 56 of the roller 50 so as to provide perpendicular extension arms that extend away from the body of the roller. A clevis 66 and Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 are provided at respective ends of the extension bar 64. A hand or foot loop 74 is connected to a cable or cord 76 that is wound within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68, so as to provide resistance to a user's hand or foot that grasps or is inserted into the hand or foot loop 74. In this manner, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be used for any multitude of previously described exercises.

[0095] As best seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 can rotate within the clevis 66 through almost 360 degrees, and is only limited in the angle of rotation by a rotation stopper portion 70 provided on the casing of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68, which selectively engages the supporting arms of the clevis 66 to prevent complete, uninterrupted rotation of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68. The rotation stopper portion 70 can be configured in a generally raised V-shape such that one side of the V-shaped rotation stopper 70 selectively engages one side of the arm of the clevis 66 to prevent rotation in one direction, and the other side of the V-shaped rotation stopper 70 selectively engages the other side of the arm of the clevis 66 to prevent rotation in the opposite direction. Thus, the selective engagement of the V-shaped rotation stopper 70 with the arm of the clevis prevents rotation of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 in a complete circle.

[0096] As can be seen best in FIG. 19, the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 also include two resistance selection buttons 72. As previously mentioned, the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 can provide three distinct incremented resistances. When neither of the two resistance selection buttons 72 are pressed in, a first, least amount of resistance is provided. When one of the two resistance selection buttons 72 is pressed in, a second, intermediate resistance is provided. A third, maximum resistance is provided when both of the resistance selection buttons 72 is pressed in.

[0097] The variable resistance is accomplished by way of multiple spring resistance members provided within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68, which selective ones of the multiple spring resistance members are engaged to resist rotation and unwinding of the cable or cord 76 when the different resistance selection buttons 72 are pressed in. The internal pulley that the cable or cord 76 is wound upon can be biased to automatically wind the cable or cord 76 when a pulling force applied by the user to the cable or cord 76 is released.

[0098] The inner components of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 are best shown in FIGS. 21, 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b, and 25. The resistance selection mechanism is the same for both resistance selection buttons 72, and thus, the description below of one resistance selection button 72 is applicable to both resistance selection buttons 72.

[0099] In particular, in FIGS. 21, 22a, and 22b, one resistance selection button 72 is shown in the pressed in configuration. The resistance selection button 72 includes a shaft 120 having a biasing member 122 received thereon, which shaft 120 passes through a shaft receiving cage 124 positioned within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68.

[0100] The end of the shaft 120 opposed to the resistance selection button 72 engages a pivot cam 126. The pivot cam 126 engages a rocker bar 128, which includes an engaging tooth 130 at one end thereof.

[0101] As best exemplary shown in FIGS. 24a and 24b, each of the pivot cam 126 and the rocker bar 128 are biased to provide the necessary contact therebetween (the pivot cam 126 is biased into contact with the end of the shaft 120 and the rocker bar 128 is biased into contact with the pivot cam 126).

[0102] When the resistance selection button 72 is pressed in to select a resistance, the pivot cam 126 is pivoted, and the rocker bar 128 rotates, such that the engaging tooth 130 engages one of the ratchet teeth on ratchet plate 132. The ratchet plate 132 is coupled to a torsion spring (not shown), which engages a spring plate 134, which spring plate 134 is coupled to a winding pulley 136, which may also include a torsion spring (not shown) to provide a first resistance and/or to provide the mechanism to wind up the cable/cord 76.

[0103] When the resistance selection button 72 is pressed in to select a resistance and the engaging tooth 130 of the rocker bar 128 engages a ratchet tooth on the ratchet plate 132, the ratchet plate 132 no longer freely rotates within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68, such that the torsion spring is thus engaged between the ratchet plate 132 and the spring plate 134 to provide additional resistance against pulling of the cable/cord 76.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 23a and 23b, when the resistance selection button 72 is not pressed, the engaging tooth 130 of the rocker bar 128 does not engage the teeth of the ratchet plate 132, such that the ratchet plate 132 can freely rotate so that the torsion spring is thus not engaged between the ratchet plate 132 and the spring plate 134, and therefore, the resistance is provided by the torsion spring and the winding pulley 136 only.

[0105] The resistance selection button 72 is shown in detail in FIG. 25. The resistance selection button 72 is configured such that pressing the button in once locks the button in the depressed configuration, and pressing the button a second time releases the button from the locked, depressed configuration. In this manner, the resistance of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68 can be set and locked in one of three settings depending upon whether one, two, or none of the resistance selection buttons 72 are locked in the depressed configuration.

[0106] In order to provide a wider variety of strength training, interchangeable Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) 68 having different resistance increments can be provided for attachment to the extension bar 64.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 26a and 26b, the clevis 66 also provides rotation, about an axis perpendicular to the rotation axis of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) 68. The clevis 66 can allow any amount of desired rotation or can be provided with a rotation limiting mechanism.

[0108] For example, as shown in FIG. 27, a clevis 66 rotation limiting mechanism is provided. The exemplary rotation limiting mechanism is in the form of a groove 94 formed in the clevis rotation shaft 96, which is inserted into the end of the extension bar 64. The circumferential size of the groove 94 determines the amount of angular rotation of the clevis 66. A stud 98 (in this case a screw or machine screw) is inserted through the extension bar 64 and sits within the groove 94 in order to limit rotation of the clevis 66 with respect to the extension bar 64. Any suitable and desired range of rotation, for example, 270 degrees, 180 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, or any other desired range within 360 degrees, can be provided by provided the groove 94 in the desired amount of rotation around the circumference of the clevis rotation shaft 96.

[0109] Like previously discussed embodiments, the extension bar 64 is removable from the roller 50, and can be stored within the hollow cavity of the roller 50 for ease with portability of the multi-purpose whole body exercise device.

[0110] In order to easily repeat and properly position the extension bar 64 on the roller 50, as shown in FIG. 19, locating notches 60 are provided in the wall of the roller 50 at the open end 56 thereof. While four locating notches 60 are shown, fewer or more can be utilized.

[0111] The extension bar 64 includes locating flanges 78 that are complementary shaped and correspondingly positioned with respect to the locating notches 60, so that the locating flanges 78 seat within the locating notches 60 to properly position the extension bar 64.

[0112] Additionally, a positioning piece 80 can be provided to further ensure proper positioning and retention of the extension bar 64. The positioning piece 80 also includes locating flanges 82 and can be inserted into the open end 56 of the roller 50 on top of and perpendicularly to the extension bar 64, so that the locating flanges 82 engage with the locating notches 60 that are not engaged by the locating flanges 78 of the extension bar 64.

[0113] Further, the removable and lockable end cap 58 is attached to the open end 56 of the roller 50 to lock the extension bar 64 and positioning piece 80 in place.

[0114] As seen in FIG. 17, lock stops 62 are positioned around the inner circumferential surface of the open end 56 of the roller 50 for selective engagement with lock stop receiving portions 86 on the removable and lockable end cap 58 (FIGS. 18a, 18b).

[0115] The removable and lockable end cap 58 is provided with a handle 84 so that a user can grasp the handle 84 to insert the end cap 58 into the open end 56 of the roller 50 and rotate the end cap 58 from an unlocked orientation to a locked orientation.

[0116] The handle 84 includes a biased lock button 88, which, as shown in FIGS. 18a and 18b, includes a ramped portion 90 having a locking edge 92 at one side thereof to selectively engage a lock stop 62 in order to prevent accidental rotation of the end cap 58 to an unlocked orientation.

[0117] In use, the end cap 58 is inserted into the open end 56 of the roller 50 with the lock stops 62 aligned for insertion into a respective lock stop receiving portion 86. The end cap 58 can then be rotated without engaging the lock button 88, such that the lock stop 62 comes into contact with the ramped portion 90 of the lock button 88 to cause the lock button 88 to move against the biasing force to allow the lock stop 62 to move past the lock button 88 into the lock stop receiving portion 86.

[0118] Once the lock stop 62 has moved past the lock button 88 and into the lock stop receiving portion 86, the lock button 88 is biased back into the unactuated position, such that the locking edge 92 engages and prevents the lock stop 62 from rotating out of the lock stop receiving portion 86. In order to remove the end cap 58, the lock button 88 is actuated against the biasing force so that the locking edge 92 no longer engages the lock stop 62, such that the lock stop 62 can be rotated out of the lock stop receiving portion 86.

[0119] In this manner, the removable end cap 58 is selectively lockable to prevent the accidental rotation thereof in order to securely retain the extension bar 64 connected to the open end 56 of the roller 50.

[0120] It can be seen that this embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device therefore provides a quick and easy method of configuring the device from a portable configuration, where the extension bar is stored within the device, to an operative configuration, where the extension bar is positioned at the end of the device to provide resistance modules to aid with providing numerous different exercises for a user to perform.

[0121] D. Various Accessories

[0122] Various accessories for the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can also be provided.

[0123] For example, as shown in FIG. 28 for users who may have weaker pelvic and hip bones, such as elderly users or persons having osteoporosis, additional protective accessories may be provided. In particular, a cushioned pad 100, which may be of any suitable shape or size, and which may be formed from a suitable viscoelastic foam or gel material, such as, for example, silicone, or may include an inflatable bladder, can be provided to lay flat across the roller under the pelvic region of the user during specific exercises that require the user to lie or sit on the roller. In this way, the cushioned pad 100 provides additional support to the pelvic region of the user.

[0124] An alternative accessory, as shown in FIG. 29, which can also be provided for users who may have weaker pelvic and hip bones, or for larger sized users, is a stability box 102. The stability box 102 is in the form of an elongated box that is placed over the roller so that a user can lie or sit on the stability box 102, instead of the roller 50, in order to perform specific exercises. The stability box 102 can open at the longitudinally opposed ends thereof to accommodate the roller 50 within the stability box 102, so that one or both of the ends of the roller 50 can extend beyond the ends of the stability box 102. In this way, the stability box 102 can provide a more stable, as well as a larger surface area for the user to lie or sit upon while performing specific exercises, yet still allowing for some level of user interface with the roller itself in order to maintain the instability element of certain exercises.

[0125] A similar accessory to the stability box 102 may be provided, as shown in FIG. 30, to provide the roller with a configuration suitable for use as a step exercise device. In particular, stability steps 104 can be provided to sit over the extension bars 64 (like the stability box 102 covers the roller 50), and to provide support underneath the extension bars 64 to prevent rotation of the roller 50 on the supporting surface. With the stability steps 104 in place over and supporting the extension bars 64, a user can perform step exercises, with or without manipulating the hand loops 74 to utilize the Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) 68.

[0126] As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, an additional accessory may be a vertical extension bar 106 (the general details of which are described above with respect to extension bar 64), which can be removably connected to the removable end cap 58, for example, by inserting one end of the vertical extension bar 106 into a hole provided in the removable end cap 58. Any other suitable mechanism for removably connecting the vertical extension bar 106 to the removable end cap 58 may also be used. As shown, the vertical extension bar 106 can include two Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) 68 connected to the opposed end thereof. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 32, the vertical extension bar 106 is provided with a clearance curvature 108 near the removable end cap 58 in order to provide more clearance between the user and the vertical extension bar 106. Like the extension bar 64, the vertical extension bar 106 can be configured to be retained within the center of the hollow portion of the roller 50 for ease of transportation.

[0127] The use of a further accessory is shown in FIGS. 33a and 33b. In particular, an inner case 110 is provided to accommodate and protect the extension bar 64 when the extension bar is stored inside the roller 50. The inner case 110 can be formed in a generally cylindrical configuration and having closed ends, with an opening 112 provided generally longitudinally along one side thereof. The extension bar 64 can be inserted through the opening 112 into the case 110. The inner case 110 can be formed from any suitable material, and may be a semi-rigid or soft case. Exemplary materials include, for example, soft fabrics, neoprene rubber, any other open or closed cell foam or any gel material, or any suitable plastic material, such as, for example, low or high density polyethylene. If the case 110 is made from a fabric material, the opening may be closed by, for example, the use of a zipper closure, snap closures, and/or hook and loop closures. For a semi-rigid plastic case, the inherent resiliency of the material will tend to close the opening.

[0128] Once the extension bar 64 is inserted through the opening 112 and into the case 110, the case 110 can be inserted into the open space of the roller 50, as shown in FIG. 33b for storage and to ease portability of the exercise device.

[0129] Additional accessories which may be provided include, but are not limited to, an exterior carrying bag (for example, as shown in FIG. 9) provided to enclose the exercise device therein for ease of transporting the exercise device. Such a carrying bag can include one or more straps, for example, shoulder straps, so that the exercise device may be more easily carried in a hands free manner. Such a shoulder strap may be provided, for example, directly removably attached to the ends of the exercise device itself, for example by snap fasteners, or by clips at the ends of the strap, which removably connect to rings secured at the ends of the exercise device.

[0130] E. Conclusion

[0131] It will be recognized that the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof can be made from any suitable materials.

[0132] It will also be recognized that, while specific size ranges for components of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device have been disclosed, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof may have any suitable size as may be appropriate for use by persons having different sizes.

[0133] Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0134] The skilled trainer or athlete will recognize the interchangeability of various disclosed features from the disclosed embodiments and variations. In addition to variations described herein, other known equivalents for each feature can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in accordance with principles of the present invention.

[0135] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of exemplary embodiments and examples, it therefore will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited only to the particular disclosed embodiments described above.