Field of the invention

[001] The present invention relates to an exercise device.

[002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in exercising the upper and/or lower body and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention

[003] "High intensity intermittent exercise" or "interval training" is a scientifically validated, efficient and currently popular method of training performed in gyms around the world. A growing body of research suggests that the physiological adaptations afforded by interval training, such as fat loss, increased cardiovascular fitness and increased anaerobic endurance, may be expedited by increasing the resistance; "high resistance interval training". However the unfortunate consequence of increasing resistance is that local muscular fatigue in the lower body becomes the limiting factor in exercise, and the duration of the stimulus on the cardiovascular system is artificially shortened.

[004] One solution is to conduct high resistance interval training which allows the upper and lower body to exercise independently of each other. In this way, when one of the upper body or lower body begins to tire, a fatigued exerciser may prolong the stress on the cardiovascular system past the point of local muscular fatigue simply by alternating between use of the upper and lower body.

[005] In the case of exercise devices implemented in such advanced training programs, the majority of these exercise devices focus exclusively on exercising only the lower body. As such, users who desire to exercise both the upper and lower body must utilise more than one exercise device in order to do so. This is a particular drawback in situations where the user is at a gym, as the user has to time their training program accordingly to be able to switch exercise devices without impacting on their exercise program or the programs of other users in the gym. Such timing is difficult to achieve, particularly when trying to maintain a sustained stressing of the cardiovascular system.

[006] In addition, many of these exercise devices are bulky and can take up a lot of space, which can be problem in cases where space, and indeed cost, are an issue.

[007] _. The present invention seeks to provide an exercise device which will overcome or substantiaHy ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[008] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an exercise device, comprising:

- a frame;

- a resistance means mounted to the frame, the resistance means being a flywheel rotatably supported by the frame in a generally horizontal orientation; and

- at least one actuating means mounted to the frame, the at least one

actuating means being actuatable against resistance provided by the resistance means, wherein the at least one actuating means is configured for actuation by the user in use using, selectively, the upper body and/or the lower body of the user.

[0010] Advantageously, the exercise device allows a user to exercise the upper and/or lower body as desired. [0011] Advantageously, a user can implement an exercise program that alternates between upper body and lower body exercise using the exercise device.

[0012] Preferably, the at least one actuating means is a rotatable actuating means.

[0013] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a base which engages a ground surface, the frame extending generally upwardly from the base.

[0014] Advantageously, the exercise device is supported by the base.

[0015] Preferably, the flywheel is disposed within the base.

[0016] Advantageously, the flywheel being disposed in the base provides a lower centre of gravity, thereby increasing the stability of the exercise device.

[0017] Advantageously, the flywheel being disposed in the base provides an exercise device that is less bulky than conventional exercise devices, thereby enabling a better utilisation of the surrounding space.

[0018] Advantageously, the flywheel being disposed in the base provides an exercise device that is sleek, of minimalist design, and thus less intimidating to users of exercise devices.

[0019] Preferably, the flywheel is disposed substantially adjacent the ground surface in use.

[0020] Advantageously, the flywheel being disposed substantially adjacent the ground surface provides a lower centre of gravity, thereby increasing the stability of the exercise device.

[0021] Advantageously, the flywheel being disposed substantially adjacent the ground surface provides a gyroscopic effect, thereby increasing the stability of the exercise device. [0022] Preferably, the at least one actuating means is adapted for rotation about an axis in a forward rotation and an opposite reverse rotation.

[0023] Advantageously, exercising of the upper and/or lower body is achieved by rotating the at least one actuating means in a forward or reverse direction.

[0024] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a direction switching device for swrtching the direction of rotation between the forward rotation and the reverse rotation.

[0025] Advantageously, the direction of rotation of the at least one actuating means can be controlled using the direction switching device.

[0026] Preferably, the resistance provided by the resistance means to the at least one actuating means is adjustable.

[0027] Advantageously, the degree of work required by a user to exercise the upper and/or lower body can be increased or decreased simply by adjusting the resistance means.

[0028] Preferably, the resistance provided by the resistance means to the at least one actuating means is adjustable via a mechanical brake means or a magnetic brake means.

[0029] Advantageously, the resistance provided by the resistance means can be applied mechanically or magnetically, thereby enabling the resistance load to be applied smoothly.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one actuating means comprises an upper actuating means configured for use by the upper body of the user.

[0031] Preferably, the upper actuating means is a hand crank.

[0032] Advantageously, exercising of the upper body is achieved by selectively rotating the hand crank.

[0033] Preferably, the hand crank comprises a top bracket rotatably mounted within the frame about a hand crank axis, the top bracket having a first end portion and a second end portion and first and second handles mounted respectively to the first and second end portions.

[0034] Advantageously, exercising of the upper body is achieved by using the first and second handles to rotate the hand crank about the hand crank axis of rotation.

[0035] Preferably, the first end portion is adapted for rotating about the hand crank axis independently of the second end portion.

[0036] Advantageously, exercising of the upper body is achieved by rotating the first handle or the second handle independently of the other.

[0037] Advantageously, a user can focus on exercising certain parts of the upper body associated with using either the first handle or the second handle to selectively rotate the flywheel in use.

[0038] Preferably, the first end portion and the second end portion are adapted for rotating about the hand crank axis in phase.

[0039] Advantageously, the user can rotate the first and second handles simultaneously in the same direction about the hand crank axis together.

[0040] Preferably,- the first end portion and the second end portion are adapted for rotating about the hand crank axis out of phase.

[0041] Advantageously, the user can rotate the first and second handles simultaneously in the same direction about the hand crank axis together in a manner similar to a bicycle.

[0042] Preferably, the frame comprises an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion, the upper actuating means being located at the upper frame portion.

[0043] Advantageously, the upper actuating means being located at the upper frame portion enables ease of access to the user.

[0044] Preferably, the upper frame portion is detachable from the lower frame portion. [0045] Advantageously, the frame can be dismantled for ease of transportation and/or storage as desired.

[0046] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a drive means operably coupling the at least one actuating means to the resistance means.

[0047] Preferably, the drive means comprises at least one of a drive shaft, a belt drive, a chain drive, or any combination thereof.

[0048] Advantageously, the at least one drive shaft provides direct and smooth power transmission between the at least one actuating means and the resistance means for rotating the flywheel in use.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one drive shaft is wholly disposed within the frame.

[0050] Advantageously, the at least one drive shaft being disposed wholly within the frame reduces the risk of the user or an article becoming caught in the drive means in use.

[0051] Preferably, the at least one actuating means comprises an upper actuating means, the at least one drive shaft comprising an upper shaft portion and a lower shaft portion, the upper actuating means being operably coupled to the upper shaft portion and the flywheel being operably coupled to the lower shaft portion.

[0052] Preferably, the upper shaft portion comprises an upper shaft gear and the upper actuating means comprises a complementary gear adapted to engage the upper shaft gear.

[0053] Preferably, the lower shaft portion is operably coupled to the flywheel via a constant-velocity joint.

[0054] Advantageously, the use of a constant-velocity joint allows the lower shaft portion to be disposed at a suitable angle relative to the flywheel.

[0055] Advantageously, the use of a constant-velocity joint allows the frame to be disposed at a suitable angle relative to the base. [0056] Preferably, the at least one actuating means comprises a lower actuating means configured for use by the lower body of the user.

[0057] Preferably, the lower actuating means is a foot crank.

[0058] Advantageously, exercising of the lower body is achieved by selectively rotating the foot crank about its foot crank axis to drive the flywheel.

[0059] Preferably, the frame is an elongate frame comprising a lower frame portion, the lower actuating means being located at the lower frame portion.

[0060] Preferably, the lower frame portion comprises a bottom bracket, the lower actuating means being mounted at the bottom bracket.

[0061] Preferably, the flywheel is rotatably supported by the lower frame portion below the bottom bracket.

[0062] Advantageously, the flywheel being located below the bottom bracket provides a lower centre of gravity, thereby increasing the stability of the exercise device.

[0063] Preferably, the at least one actuating means further comprises an upper actuating means configured for use by the upper body of the user.

[0064] Advantageously, exercising of the upper body and the lower body is achieved by selectively rotating the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means, respectively, to rotate the flywheel in use.

[0065] Preferably, the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means are operably coupled so that a force applied to one of the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means assists movement of the other of the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means in use.

[0066] Advantageously, by selectively actuating one of the upper or lower actuating means to assist movement of the other, a user can rely on the selectively actuated means to prolong the exercise of the corresponding part of the body to which the other actuating means relates in the event the user starts to tire. [0067] Preferably, the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means are inoperably coupled so that a force applied to one of the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means does not assist movement of the other of the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means in use.

[0068] Advantageously, the exercise device allows a user to exercise the upper body and the lower body independently of the other.

[0069] Preferably, the lower actuating means comprises locking means for preventing rotation of the lower actuating means about the axis in use.

[0070] Advantageously, the lower actuating means can be locked in use so that a user can selectively rotate only the upper actuating means to exercise their upper body.

[0071] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a first gear coupled to the at least one drive shaft and at least one secondary gear coupled to the first gear, the flywheel comprising gear teeth engageable by the at least one secondary gear.

[0072] Advantageously, the first gear and the at least one secondary gear define a planetary gear system for rotating the flywheel in system use.

[0073] Advantageously, the flywheel is driven by virtue of the at least one secondary gear engaging the flywheel gear in use.

[0074] Preferably, the flywheel gear teeth are disposed around an internal periphery thereof.

[0075] Advantageously, the flywheel gear teeth being disposed around the internal periphery of the flywheel gear enables the at least one secondary gear to be located generally within the internal periphery of the flywheel in use, thereby enabling a more compact design.

[0076] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a resistance assembly for applying a resistance load on the flywheel in use. [0077] Advantageously, the resistance assembly allows the user to alter the amount of work required to rotate the flywheel in use.

[0078] Preferably, the flywheel comprises a centre portion, the resistance assembly being adapted to apply the resistance load to the centre portion in use.

[0079] Preferably, the resistance assembly comprises an adjustment means for adjusting the resistance load in use.

[0080] Advantageously, the resistance load applied to the flywheel being adjustable enables a user to vary the amount of work required to rotate the flywheel in use.

[0081] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a flywheel engaging device disposed between the resistance assembly and the flywheel.

[0082] Preferably, the flywheel engaging device engages the centre portion of the flywheel.

[0083] Preferably, the adjustment means comprises an adjustment engaging member adapted to urge the flywheel engaging device to the flywheel.

[0084] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises biasing means to bias the flywheel engaging device away from the flywheel.

[0085] Advantageously, the flywheel engaging device being biased away from the flywheel ensures that a resistance load is only applied to the flywheel when adjusted by virtue of the adjustment means.

[0086] Preferably, the biasing means comprises a spring.

[0087] Advantageously, the flywheel engaging device being spring biased away from the flywheel ensures that a resistance load is only applied to the flywheel when adjusted by virtue of the adjustment means.

[0088] Preferably, the frame comprises an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion detachably attachable to each other. [0089] Advantageously, the frame can be disassembled and re-assembled for ease of use as desired.

[0090] Preferably, the upper frame portion is extendable relative to the lower frame portion.

[0091] Advantageously, the user can adjust the height of the frame as desired.

[0092] Preferably, the upper frame portion is telescopically extendable relative to the lower frame portion.

[0093] Advantageously, the user can telescopically adjust the height of the frame as desired.

[0094] Preferably, the frame is detachably attachable to the base.

[0095] Advantageously, the frame can be detached and re-attached from the base for ease of use as desired.

[0096] Advantageously, the frame can be detached from the base for ease of transportation and/or storage as desired.

[0097] Preferably, the frame comprises a longitudinal axis, the frame being disposed at an acute angle relative to the base.

[0098] Preferably, the base comprises an at least partly transparent cover portion through which the flywheel can be viewed.

[0099] Advantageously, a user can view the rotation of the flywheel in use by virtue the at least party transparent cover portion.

[00100] Preferably, the frame is adapted for supporting a user thereon.

[00101] Advantageously, the user is supported by the frame in use.

[00102] Preferably, the frame comprises a seat assembly.

[00103] Advantageously, the user is supported by the seat assembly in use. [00104] Preferably, the seat assembly comprises a seat adjustment means for adjusting the height of the seat assembly and/or the distance of the seat assembly from the frame.

[00105] Advantageously, the user can adjust the height, and or distance of the seat as desired.

[00106] Preferably, at least one freewheeling means is operatively interposed between the upper actuating means and the flywheel.

[00107] Advantageously, the user can rotate the flywheel using the lower actuating means, without the rotation of the flywheel urging movement of the upper actuating means, allowing the user to selectively exercise the lower body.

[00108] Preferably, at least one freewheeling means is operatively interposed between the lower actuating means and the flywheel.

[00109] Advantageously, the user can rotate the flywheel using the upper actuating means, without the rotation of the flywheel urging movement of the lower actuating means, allowing the user to selectively exercise the upper body.

[00110] Preferably, at least one freewheeling means is operatively interposed between the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means.

[0011 ] Advantageously, a force applied to one of the upper actuating means and lower actuating means does not urge movement of the other of the upper actuating means and the lower actuating means, allowing the user to selectively exercise the upper and/or the lower body.

[00112] Preferably, the exercise device further comprises a second resistance means, against which the upper actuating means is actuable.

[00113] Advantageously, the resistance against which the lower actuating means is actuable may differ from the resistance against which the upper actuating means is actuable, allowing the user to user different resistance for the selective exercise of the upper and/or the lower body.

[00114] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[00115] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[00116] Fig. 1 shows (i) a perspective view and (ii) a side view of an exercise device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[00117] Fig. 2 shows a cross sectional side view of the exercise device of Fig.

¹ ;

[00118] Fig. 3 shows a part cross sectional view of the exercise device of Fig. ¹ :

[00119] Fig. 4 shows a part perspective view (in exploded form) of the exercise device of Fig. 1 ;

[00120] Fig. 5 shows a part cross sectional view of a base of the exercise device of Fig. 1;

[00121] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view (in exploded form) of the base and a flywheel of the exercise device of Fig. 1 ;

[00122] Fig. 7 shows (i) a perspective view (in exploded form) of the flywheel of Fig. 6, and (ii) a cross sectional view of the base of Fig. 6 in which the flywheel is rotatably supported;

[00123] Fig. 8 shows perspective views of a resistance means of the exercise device of Fig. 1 ;

[00124] Fig. 9 shows a part cross sectional view of a seat assembly of the exercise device of Fig. 1 ;

[00125] Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of a bottom bracket of the exercise device of Fig. 1 ; [00126] Fig. 11 shows perspective views of a hand crank of the exercise device of Fig. 1 in (i) in solid form and (ii) in part cross section, and (iii) a perspective view of a turning knob assembly for the hand crank; and

[00127] Fig. 12 shows a cross sectional side view of a top bracket of Fig. 11.

Description of Embodiments

[00128] It should be noted in the following description mat like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[00129] Figs. 1 to 2 show an exercise device 10 configured for use by a user to exercise their upper and/or lower body. The exercise device 10 comprises a frame 20, a base 30 to support the frame 20, a resistance means in the form of a flywheel 40, and two actuating means in the form of a hand crank 50 and a foot crank 60. The hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 are both detachably mounted to the frame 20.

[00130] As shown in Figs. 2 and 4, the frame 20, being generally elongate and having a longitudinal axis, comprises a generally cylindrical upper frame portion 21 and a generally cylindrical lower frame portion 25. The lower frame portion 25 is detachable from the upper frame portion 21. The upper frame portion 21 comprises a top portion 22 and a bottom portion 23 being of a generally smaller diameter than the top portion 22. The lower frame portion 25 also comprises a top portion 26 and a bottom portion 27 being of a generally larger diameter than the top portion 26. The bottom portion 23 of the upper frame portion 21 is received within the hollow top portion 26 of the lower frame portion 25 and secured in place using a suitable securing means (not shown). ^v

[00131] Referring specifically to Fig. 9, the upper frame portion 21 comprises a first adjustment member in the form of an elongate toothed rack 28 disposed lengthwise along an external surface of the bottom portion 23 of the upper frame portion 21. The top portion 26 of the lower frame portion 25 comprises a complementary second adjustment member in the form of a toothed rack (not shown) disposed lengthwise along a portion of the internal surface of the lower frame portion 25. Rotatably mounted substantially between the two racks 28 is a pinion (not shown) having complementary teeth to both of the two racks 28. In this arrangement, raising or lowering the upper frame portion 21 relative to the lower frame portion 25, causes the pinion to rotate about its axis, thereby enabling a user to telescopicaliy adjust the height of the frame 20 as desired. The toothed rack arrangement is further configured using suitable means (not shown) so that the upper frame portion 21 can be locked in place relative to the lower frame portion 25.

[00132] As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the base 30 is of a generally circular shape in plan comprising a base portion 3T and a generally circular cover portion 35 mounted to the base portion 31 using a plurality of screws 34. The base portion 31 is a generally flat circular plate having an upper surface 32 and a bottom surface 33. The cover portion 35 is of a generally dish-like shape having a generally circular top portion 36 and a skirt portion 37 that extends downwardly from the periphery of the top portion 36 to engage the upper surface 32 of the base portion 31. The cover portion 35 and the base portion 31 together define a volume for rotatably supporting the flywheel 40 therebetween. When the exercise device 10 is assembled ready for use, the flywheel 40 is supported in the base 30 in a generally horizontal orientation relative to the ground surface upon which the base 30 is placed.

[00133] The base 30 is detachably mounted to the bottom portion 27 of the lower frame portion 25 using a suitable spring-mounted coupling means (see Fig. 6) in the form of a generally annular coupling ring 400 disposed between the top portion 36 of the cover portion 35 and the flywheel 40. The coupling ring 4-00 comprises three arcuate slots that extend substantially through the ring 400 from an upper surface to a bottom surface. Extending through each of the three slots is a bolt (not shown) which is threadingly received in the top portion 36. The coupling ring 400 further comprises three recess portions (not shown) disposed in the upper surface of the coupling ring 400, a lever 410, and a notch (not shown) cut into a peripheral edge of the annular coupling ring 400. Opposing edges of the notch are coupled by virtue of a spring (not shown), which is configured to compress as a manual force is applied to the lever 410. Extending upwardly from the top portion 36 and into corresponding apertures (not shown) in the bottom portion 27 of the lower frame portion 25 are three bolts (not shown). Each bolt comprises a spring which is in compression by virtue of the bolts engaging the upper surface of the coupling ring 400. In use, when a force is applied to the lever 410, the ring 400 rotates relative to the longitudinal axis of the lower frame portion 25 causing the three spring-mounted bolts supported by the upper surface of the ring 400 to drop into a corresponding recess portion in the upper surface, and thus exiting from the apertures in the bottom portion 27, thereby enabling the base 30 to detach from the bottom portion 27. In this arrangement, the exercise device 0 can be easily dismantled and thus easier to transport as desired. As shown in Figs. 1 to 2, when the exercise device 10 is assembled, the base 30 is generally horizontal relative to the ground surface while the frame 20 extends upwardly from the generally horizontal base 30 at an acute angle. In this embodiment, the frame 20 is disposed at an angle of around 17 degrees relative to the base 30. However, it will be appreciated that the angle can be varied within a suitable range as desired.

[00134] As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the base 30 comprises a support means in the form of a plurality of feet 38 mounted to the bottom surface 33 of the base portion 31 which are disposed around the general periphery of the base portion 31. The feet 38 are configured to engage the ground surface and support the exercise device 10 in use, as well as to absorb some of the vibrations caused when the exercise device 10 is being used.

[00135] As shown in Fig. 6, the cover portion 35 comprises a plurality of apertures, generally given reference numeral 39, which are arranged in a spaced arrangement around the top portion 36. The apertures 39 enable the flywheel 40 to be viewed through the cover portion 35. To shield the user from the flywheel 40 and the drive gear assembly in use, a transparent cover 70 is mounted between the cover portion 35 and the flywheel 40.

[00136] As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the flywheel 40 is of a generally dish-like shape comprising a generally cylindrical central portion 41 , four spokes, generally given reference numeral 42, extending outwardly from the central portion 41 , and a rim portion 43, which is connected to the terminal ends of each of the four spokes 42, and which forms the periphery of the flywheel 40. Mounted beneath the rim portion 43 using a plurality of screws 44 (see Fig. 7(i)) is an annular flywheel gear 45 which comprises a plurality of gear teeth 46 that face generally inwardly. As such, when the flywheel 40 is assembled, the gear teeth 46 are disposed around an internal periphery of the flywheel 40.

[00137] As shown in Fig. 2, the exercise device 10 further comprises a drive means in the form of a drive shaft 80 disposed wholly within the frame 20. The drive shaft 80 being disposed wholly within the frame 20 reduces the risk of the user or an article becoming caught in the drive means in use. The driveshaft 80 comprises three shaft portions, an upper shaft portion 90, a lower shaft portion 100, and a flywheel shaft portion 110, all operably coupled together using suitable means therebetween.

[00138] As shown in Figs. 3, 4 and 11 , the upper shaft portion 90 is generally elongate having a top end 92 and a bottom end 95. The upper shaft portion 90 comprises an upper shaft gear 93 at the top end 92 and a shaft gear 96 at the bottom end 95. The upper shaft gear 93 is a bevel gear having teeth that are oriented generally upwardly, and the shaft gear 96 is a bevel gear having teeth oriented generally downwardly. Disposed adjacent the top end 92 of the upper shaft portion 90 is a bearing 94, and disposed adjacent the bottom end 95 of the upper shaft portion 90 is a bearing 97.

[00139] As shown in Fig. 3, the lower shaft portion 100 is generally elongate having a top end 102 and a bottom end 105. The lower shaft portion 100 comprises a lower shaft gear 103 at the top end 102 and a constant-velocity joint 106 located at the bottom end 105. The lower shaft gear 103 is a bevel gear having teeth that are oriented generally upwardly. Disposed adjacent the top end 102 of the lower shaft portion 100 is a bearing 107

[00140] As shown in Figs. 2, 5, and 7, the flywheel shaft portion 110 is generally elongate having a top end 1 12 and a bottom end 115. The lower shaft portion 100 is operably coupled at its bottom end 105 to the top end 112 of the flywheel shaft portion 110 via the constant-velocity joint 106 disposed between the lower shaft portion 100 and the flywheel shaft portion 110. The flywheel shaft portion 110 extends generally downwardly from the constant-velocity joint 106 toward the base portion 31. Disposed at the bottom end 115 of the flywheel shaft portion 110 is located a bearing 1 16, which is mounted to a central portion of the base portion 31. Mounted to the flywheel shaft portion 110 at a position above the bearing 116 is a sprag bearing 117.

[00141] As shown in Fig. 4, the top portion 26 of the lower frame portion 25 comprises a bottom bracket mount 120 for detachably mounting the foot crank 60 to the frame 20. The bottom bracket mount 120 comprises two generally hollow cylindrical portions 122 and 125 mounted on opposing sides of the top portion 26. The two cylindrical portions 122 and 125 define an aperture that extends substantially through the top portion 26 of the lower frame portion 25.

[00142] As shown in Figs. 1 , 4 and 10, the foot crank 60 comprises a bottom bracket 61 rotatably mounted within the aperture of the bottom bracket mount 120 to define a foot crank axis that is generally horizontal. The bottom bracket 61 has a first end portion 62 that extends outwardly from the cylindrical portion 122 and a second end portion 65 that extends outwardly from cylindrical portion 125. The foot crank 60 further comprises a first crank arm 63 rotatably mounted to the first end portion 62 of the bottom bracket 61 and a second crank arm 66 rotatably mounted to the second end portion 65 of the bottom bracket 61. At the end of each crank ami 63 and 66 is rotatably mounted a foot pedal 64 and 67, respectively. Mounted between the first crank arm 63 and the corresponding first end portion 62 is a first bearing 68, and mounted between the second crank arm 66 and the second end portion 65 is a second bearing 69.

[00143] It will be appreciated that the first crank arm 63 and the second crank arm 66 of the foot crank 60 are equal in length.

[00144] Referring specifically to Fig. 10, the bottom bracket 61 is generally elongate and comprises a gear 130 mounted generally midway along the first end portion 62 of the bottom bracket 61. The gear 130 is a bevel gear having teeth that face generally in the direction toward the second end portion 65. The gear teeth are complementary to the teeth disposed on the shaft gear 96 of the upper shaft portion 90 and the teeth disposed on the lower shaft gear 103 of the lower shaft portion 100. The first end portion 62 further comprises a sprag bearing 135 to which the gear 130 is mounted.

[00145] As shown in Figs. 1 , 4, 11 , and 12, the hand crank 50 comprises a top bracket housing 140 for detachably mounting the hand crank 50 to the top portion 22 of the upper frame portion 21. The top bracket housing 140 is a generally T- shaped member comprising a hollow generally cylindrical portion 141 forming the stem of the T-shape having a diameter that is large enough to receive the top portion 22 of the upper frame portion 21 , and a hollow generally cylindrical portion having two opposing ends 142 and 145 forming the arms of the T-shape. The hand crank 50 further comprises a top bracket 51 that is rotatably mounted within the top bracket housing140 to define hand crank axis that is generally horizontal. The top bracket 51 has a first end portion 52 that extends outwardly from the end 142 and a second end portion 55 that extends outwardly from end 145. The hand crank 50 further comprises a first crank arm 53 rotatably mounted to the first end portion 52 of the top bracket 51 and a second crank arm 56 rotatably mounted to the second end portion 55 of the top bracket 51. At the end of each crank arm 53 and 56 is rotatably mounted a handle 54 and 57, and a bearing 58 and 59, respectively.

[00146] It will be appreciated that the first crank arm 53 and the second crank arm 56 of the hand crank 50 are equal in length. In this embodiment, the hand crank arms 53 and 56 are generally shorter in length than the corresponding foot crank arms 63 and 66.

[00147] Referring specifically to Figs. 11 and 12, the first end portion 52 of the top bracket 51 is generally elongate and comprises a first shaft spline with an end portion 52A. The second end portion 55 is generally elongate and comprises a second shaft spline that has a hollow portion 55A for receiving the end portion 52A of the first shaft spline therein. Mounted generally midway along the first end portion 52 and the second end portion 55 of the top bracket 51 are gears 150 and 160, respectively. The two gears 150 and 160 are bevel gears which are mounted to the corresponding first and second end portion 52 and 55 such that the teeth of the two gears 150 and 160 face generally toward each other. The two gears 150 and 160 are complementary to the upper shaft gear 93 and are adapted to engage and rotate the upper shaft gear 93 so as to rotate the upper shaft portion 90 about its longitudinal axis in use. The hand crank 50 further comprises sprag bearings 155 and 165, in which each sprag bearing 155 and 165 is mounted around a corresponding one of the two gears 150 and 160. The sprag bearings 155 and 165 are oppositely configured for both forward and reverse compatibility.

[00148] In this arrangement, the hand crank 50 is configured for rotating about the hand crank axis in both a forward rotation and a reverse rotation.

[00149] As shown in Fig. 11, the exercise device 10 further comprises a direction switching device in the form of a turning knob assembly for switching the direction of rotation of the hand crank 50 between the forward rotation and the reverse rotation. The turning knob assembly comprises a turning knob 146, and a support bracket 146A for supporting the turning knob 146 in use. The support bracket 146A comprises a mounting plate 146C and a generally U-shaped support member 146D extending from the mounting pate 146C. The turning knob assembly further comprises a biasing means in the form of a spring 146B disposed substantially between the two arms of the U-shaped support member 146D, and through which, a portion of the turning knob 146 extends. The top bracket housing 140 comprises an aperture 147, disposed generally midway between the two opposing ends 142 and 145. The turning knob assembly is mounted to the top bracket housing 140 by virtue of the mounting plate 146C (see Fig. 11(iii)) such that the arms of the U-shaped support member are disposed on opposing sides of the aperture 147. The portion of the turning knob 146 extends through the centre of the spring 146B between the two arms and is received substantially within the aperture 147. In this arrangement, the turning knob 146 is rotatably mounted within the aperture 147. The turning knob 146 comprises two engaging gears 147 and 148 disposed within the top bracket housing 140 and located either side of the turning knob 146 at positions corresponding to the opposing ends 142 and 145 of the top bracket housing 140. The engaging gears 147 and 148 are configured to engage the gears 150 and 160 of the first end portion 52 and second end portion 55, respectively, when the turning knob 146 is rotated about its axis in the direction of the corresponding end 142 and 145 of the top bracket housing 140. In this arrangement, a user can switch the direction of rotation of the hand crank 50 between the forward rotation and the reverse rotation.

[00150] As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, and 9, the frame 20 further comprises a seat assembly 170 for supporting the user on the exercise device 10 in use. The seat assembly 170 is mounted to the upper frame portion 21 and is located generally midway between the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60.

[00151] The seat assembly 170 comprises a seat mount 171 being generally elongate and having a hollow cylindrical frame mount portion 172 at a first end, and a hollow cylindrical seat mount portion 173 disposed distal to the cylindrical frame mount portion 172. The seat assembly 170 further comprises a seat 175 having a generally cylindrical seat post 176 for mounting to the seat mount portion 173. The frame mount portion 172 has a diameter that is slightly greater than the diameter of the bottom portion 23 of the upper frame portion 21 so as to receive the bottom portion 23 substantially therethrough. The seat mount portion 173 is disposed at an angle relative to the frame mount portion 172 so that the seat 175 is maintained at an angle that is generally horizontal relative to the base

30. The seat assembly 170 further comprises a seat adjustment means 177 to adjust the height of the seat 175 relative to the seat mount portion 173.

[00152] As shown in Figs. 5 to 7, the exercise device 10 further comprises a drive gear assembly which is operably coupled to the drive shaft 80 for driving the rotation of the flywheel 40 in use. The drive gear assembly comprises a sun gear 180, and three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210, which are operably coupled to the sun gear 180. The sun gear 180, and the three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210, are all oriented generally parallel to the upper surface 32 of the base portion

31. The sun gear 180 comprises a central aperture (not shown) through which the sprag bearing 117 is located so as to mount the sun gear 180 to the flywheel shaft portion 110. The sun gear 180 comprises a central aperture (not shown) through which the sprag bearing 1 17 locates. The three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210, are rotatably mounted to the base portion 31 using bolts, generally given reference numeral 215, and are positioned relative to the sun gear 180 and the flywheel 40 such that the gear teeth disposed around the external periphery of each of the three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210, meshingly engage with the gear teeth disposed around the external periphery of the sun gear 180, and the gear teeth disposed around the internal periphery of the flywheel gear 45 of the flywheel 40.

[00153] The flywheel 40 is rotatably mounted to the flywheel shaft portion 1 10 via the central portion 41 such that the flywheel 40 is located generally between the sun gear 180 and the constant-velocity joint 106. The flywheel 40 is configured to rotate freely about the longitudinal axis of the flywheel shaft portion 110 when it is driven by the three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210 in use.

[00154] The drive gear assembly further comprises a bearing 220 having a central aperture 221 extending through the bearing 220 through which the flywheel shaft portion 110 extends. The bearing 220 is located between the flywheel 40 and the constant-velocity joint 106. The bearing 220 comprises a top portion 222 and a bottom portion 225 and a plurality of bearing balls 230 disposed between the top portion 222 and the bottom portion 225. The bearing 220 is supported by the cover portion 35 via engagement of a periphery of the bottom portion 225 with the top portion 36 of the cover portion 35.

[00155] As shown in Figs. 5 to 8, the exercise device 10 further comprises a resistance assembly 250 for applying a resistance load on the flywheel 40 so that a user can vary the degree of work required to rotate the flywheel 40 in use.

[00156] Referring specifically to Figs. 1 to 5 and 8, the resistance assembly 250 comprises an adjustment means in the form of an adjustment support member 251 mounted within the bottom portion 27 of the lower frame portion 25, an adjustment engaging member 252 pivotably mounted to the adjustment support member 251 at a pivot point 257, and an adjustment member 255, which is operably coupled to the adjustment engaging member 252 via a coupling member in the form of an elongate rod or cable (not shown).

[00157] The adjustment engaging member 252 is generally elongate having a top end portion 253 and a bottom end portion 254. The pivot point 257 is located generally between the top end portion 253 and the bottom end portion 254. [00158] The adjustment means further comprises biasing means in the form of a compression spring 258 which is mounted between the adjustment support member 251 and the adjustment engaging member 252. The spring 258 is mounted so as to abut the top end portion 253 of the adjustment engaging member 252 and bias against the top end portion 253 so that the bottom end portion 254 of the adjustment engaging member 252 is pivoted in a generally upwardly direction away from the flywheel 40.

[00159] As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, and 9, the adjustment member 255 is in the form of a handle which is mounted to the seat assembly 170 for ease of access. The handle 255 comprises an externally threaded portion and the seat assembly 170 comprises an aperture 178 having a corresponding internally threaded portion to threadingly engage the externally threaded portion of the handle 255. The handle 255 is rotatable about a handle axis corresponding to a longitudinal axis of the aperture 178.

[00160] The cable is coupled at a first end to the top end portion 253 of the adjustment engaging member 252, and at a second end to the handle 255. When the handle 255 is rotated about the handle axis, the operable coupling between the handle 255 and the adjustment engaging member 252 enables the adjustment engaging member 252 to pivot about the pivot point 257 to allow the bottom end portion 254 to be raised or lowered as desired.

[00161] Referring specifically to Figs. 5 and 8, the exercise device 10 further comprises a flywheel engaging device 270 which is configured for engaging the flywheel 40 when a force is applied to the flywheel engaging device 270 in use. The flywheel engaging device 270 comprises a support member 280, an upper cheek plate 290, a lower cheek plate 300, and a flywheel flange 310, all being mounted to the flywheel shaft portion 110 by virtue of apertures extending through the corresponding central portions of the support member 280, the upper cheek plate 290, the lower cheek plate 300, and the flywheel flange 310. The flywheel engaging device 270 further comprises a wear resistant member (not shown) disposed generally between the lower cheek plate 300 and the flywheel flange 310. [00162] The support member 280 is located between the top portion 222 of the bearing 220 and the constant-velocity joint 106, and is supported at a periphery of the support member 280 by the cover portion 35. The support member 280 is mounted to the cover portion 35 using bolts 320. The support member 280 is generally circular in plan and comprises a top surface 282 and a bottom surface 285. Disposed within the top surface 282 and the bottom surface 285 are two generally circular recess portions, with a first recess portion 283 being located at the top surface 282, and a second recess portion 286 being located at the bottom surface 285.

[00163] The upper cheek plate 290 comprises a top surface 292 and a bottom surface 295. The upper cheek plate 290 is mounted between the top surface 282 of the support member 280 and the constant-velocity joint 106 using four bolts, generally given reference numeral 340. The upper cheek plate 290 is generally circular in plan and is of a suitable dimension to locate substantially within the first recess portion 283 in use. A portion of the bolt stem is exposed above the top surface 282 of the support member 280 to allow the upper cheek plate 290 to move in a generally vertical direction between the top surface 282 of the support member 280 and the head of each bolt 340. Each bolt 340 comprises a biasing means in the form of a compression spring, generally given reference numeral 330, through which the stem of the bolt 340 extends. In this arrangement, a top end portion 332 of the spring 330 abuts the bottom surface 295 of the upper cheek plate 290, and a bottom end portion 335 of the spring 330 abuts the top surface 282 of the support member 280. In this arrangement, the compression springs 330 bias the upper cheek plate 290 in a generally upwardly direction away from the support member 280.

[00164] The lower cheek plate 300 comprises a top surface 302 and a bottom surface 305. The lower cheek plate 300 is mounted between the top portion 222 of the bearing 220 and the bottom surface 285 of the support member 280. The lower cheek plate 300 is generally circular in plan and is of a suitable dimension to locate substantially within the second recess portion 286 in use. The upper cheek plate 290 and the lower cheek plate 300 are operably coupled by the four bolts 340 such that the lower cheek plate 300 rises and falls in accordance with the movement of the upper cheek plate 290 relative to the longitudinal axes of the bolts 340.

[00165] The flywheel flange 310 is mounted between the bottom surface 305 of the lower cheek plate 300 and a centre portion of the flywheel 40 using five bolts 350 (see Fig. 6). In this embodiment, the centre portion of the flywheel 40 is an upper portion 47 of the central portion 41. A lower portion of the periphery of the flywheel flange 310 engages the top portion 222 of the bearing 220. The flywheel flange 310 is generally circular in plan and is of a suitable dimension to locate substantially within the second recess portion 286 in use.

[00166] The wear resistant member is manufactured from a suitable wear resistant material to minimize deterioration. Such materials include, but are not limited to, a fabric such as felt, an elastomer, or cork.

[00167] In use, when a user actuates the hand crank 50 in one of the forward or reverse directions, the corresponding gear 150 or 160 of the hand crank 50 engages the upper shaft gear 93 of the upper shaft portion 90 to cause the upper shaft portion 90 to rotate about its longitudinal axis. At the same time, the shaft gear 96 of the upper shaft portion 90 engages the gear 130 of the foot crank 60. As the gear 130 is operably coupled with the sprag bearing 135, the gear 130 can rotate about the foot crank axis independently of the foot crank 60. The gear 130 engages the lower shaft gear 103 of the lower shaft portion 100 to cause the lower shaft portion 100 to rotate about its longitudinal axis. This in turn drives the flywheel shaft portion 110 to cause it to rotate about its horizontal axis also. The operable coupling between the flywheel shaft portion 110 and the sun gear 180, by virtue of the sprag bearing 117, causes the sun gear 180 to rotate about its axis. This in turn, causes the three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210 to rotate about their respective axes. The flywheel 40 is thus caused to rotate in a generally horizontal orientation about the flywheel shaft portion 110 by Virtue of the gear teeth disposed around the external periphery of the three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210 engaging the gear teeth disposed around the internal periphery of the flywheel gear 45 of the flywheel 40. [00168] Similarly, when a user actuates the foot crank 60 in a forward direction, the gear 130 engages the lower shaft gear 103 of the lower shaft portion 100 in the same manner as described above to cause the flywheel 40 to rotate in the generally horizontal orientation about the flywheel shaft portion 110. The gear 130 also engages the shaft gear 96 of the upper shaft portion 90 to cause the upper shaft portion 90 to rotate about its longitudinal axis, and in turn cause one of the gears 150 and 160 of the hand crank 50 to rotate about the hand crank axis also, depending on the position of the turning knob 146. However, as the gears 150 and 160 are operably coupled with the corresponding sprag bearings 155 and 165, the gears 150 and 160 can rotate about the hand crank axis independently of the hand crank 50.

[00169] In this arrangement, therefore, the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 are inoperably coupled so that a force applied to one of the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 does not assist movement of the other in use. The exercise device 10 thus allows a user to exercise the upper body or the lower body independently of the other. The hand crank 50 is therefore configured for selectively actuating rotation of the flywheel 40 using the upper body of the user and the foot crank 60 is configured for selectively actuating rotation of the flywheel 40 using the lower body. In this arrangement, the exercise device allows a user to exercise the upper and/or lower body as desired.

[00170] To increase the resistance load on the flywheel 40, the handle 255 is rotated about the handle axis causing the adjustment engaging member 252 to pivot about the pivot point 257 to bring the bottom end portion 254 of the adjustment engaging member 252 in contact with the upper cheek plate 290 of the flywheel engaging device 270. The upper cheek plate 290 is urged downwardly toward the support member 280, which in turn, urges the lower cheek plate 300 and the flywheel flange 310 downwardly against the centre portion 47 of the flywheel 40 resulting in an increase in the resistance load. It will be appreciated that the resistance load can be reduced simply by rotating the handle 255 about the handle axis in the opposite direction. In this arrangement, the resistance load applied to the centre portion 47 of the flywheel 40 is thus adjustable to vary the amount of work required by the user to rotate the flywheel 40 in use.

[00171] It will be appreciated that the load associated with the exercise device 10 and the user when supported by the exercise device 10, is dispersed to the ground surface via the base 30. And the flywheel 40 being located at the base 30allows for a lower centre of gravity, thereby increasing the stability of the exercise device 10.

[00172] It will also be appreciated that the use of a direct drive shaft 80 provides a smooth power transmission for driving the flywheel 40 in use.

[00173] In other embodiments, the exercise device 10 is not limited to comprising actuating means in the form of both a hand crank 50 and a foot crank 60, but may comprise only the hand crank 50 for selectively actuating rotation of the flywheel 40 using the upper body.

[00174] In other embodiments, the drive means is not limited to the use of a direct drive shaft 80 to rotate the flywheel 40, as described above, but may instead comprise a chain or belt drive mechanism (not shown).

[00175] In other embodiments, the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 may be operably coupled so that a rotational force applied to one of the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 assists rotation of the other in use.

[00176] In other embodiments, the first end portion 52 and the second end portion 55 of the top bracket 51 may be configured for rotating about the hand crank axis independently of each other. As such, in one example, the first end portion 52 can rotate about the hand crank axis in one direction, being a forward rotation, and the second end portion 55 can rotate about the hand crank axis in the opposite direction, being a reverse rotation.

[00177] in another embodiment, the first end portion 52 and the second end portion 55 may be configured so as to rotate about the hand crank axis together in the same direction in phase, as opposed to rotating out of phase, as described in the preferred embodiments above. Such "double overhand motion" can be either a forward rotation or a reverse rotation.

[00178] In other embodiments, the adjustment of the upper frame portion 21 relative to the lower frame portion 25 is not limited to using the toothed rack system defined by toothed rack 28 and its complement (not shown), as described above, but may be adjustable using other means of adjustment.

[00179] In other embodiments, the resistance assembly 250 may instead comprise magnetic means (not shown) for applying the resistance load on the flywheel 40 in use.

[00180] In other embodiments, the foot crank 60 may comprise locking means (not shown) for preventing rotation of the foot crank 60 about the foot crank axis of rotation in use. In this arrangement, the foot crank 60 can be locked in place so that a user can focus on exercising their upper body using the hand crank 50 without exercising the lower body.

[00181] In other embodiments, the seat assembly 170 may comprise a second seat adjustment means (not shown) to adjust the distance of the seat mount portion 173, and thus the distance of the seat 175, from the frame 20.

[00182] In other embodiments, the handles 54 and 57, and foot pedals 64 and 67, are not limited to that described above, but may be any suitably and/ or ergonomically configured handle or pedal to allow a user to selectively actuate rotation of the flywheel 40. In one example, the foot pedals 64 and 67 may be fitted with toe clips (not shown) or cleats (not shown) to aid the user in rotating the foot crank 60 in use. In other embodiments, the hand crank arms 53 and 56 may be similar in length to the corresponding foot crank arms 63 and 66.

[00183] In other embodiments, the hand crank arms 53 and 56 and/or the corresponding foot crank arms 63 and 66 may be adjustable in length.

[00184] In other embodiments, the exercise device 10 may further comprise additional handles (not shown) that are not operably connected to the hand crank 50, but are instead "static" handles to allow a user to rest their hands while the user actuates the foot pedals 64 and 67 to exercise the lower body, in one example, the additional handles are ergonomic handles mounted to the upper frame portion 21. \

[00185] In other embodiments, the exercise device 0 may comprise a brake means such as for example, a clamp brake (not shown), which is operably coupled to the flywheel 40 to clamp the flywheel 40 in use so as to stop the rotation of the flywheel 40 as desired.

[00186] In other embodiments, the frame 20 is not limited to comprising an upper frame portion 21 and a lower frame portion 25, but may be manufactured as a single component (not shown) via any suitable method of manufacture. For example, in one example, the frame (not shown) may be manufactured by hydroforming aluminium.

[00187] In other embodiments, the angle between the frame 20 and the base 30 is not limited to an acute angle of around 17 degrees as described above, but may be varied within a suitable range as desired. For example, the frame 20 may be configured to extend upwardly from the base 30 at 90 degrees. In one example where the frame 20 is angled at 90 degrees to the base 30, it will be appreciated that the lower shaft portion 100 requires only a standard coupling means such as a bevel gear (not shown) located at the bottom end 105, as opposed to a constant-velocity joint 106, as is described above. In this arrangement, it will be appreciated that the flywheel shaft portion 110 will comprises a complementary bevel gear at its top end 1 2.

[00188] In other embodiments, the lower frame portion 25 may extend generally vertical upwards from the base 30, and then the upper portion 21 of the frame 20 may be angled at an acute angle relative to the lower portion 25.

[00189] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the exercise device 10 may further comprise electronic means (not shown) to monitor various parameters of the exercise device 10 and/or the user in use. In one embodiment, the electronic means may be configured to monitor such parameters as, for example, the speed of rotation of the flywheel 40, the resistance load on the flywheel 40, and the length of exercise time, so that the resulting data can be used to determine the amount of work performed by the user during use. It will be appreciated that such electronic means may be coupled by wired or wireless connection to other electronic devices (not shown) to provide the corresponding output data. Such electronic means may be coupled by wired or wireless connection using suitable Ethernet™ or Bluetooth™ technology to an electronic device that enables integration of the exercise device 10 and its use into an electronic video game.

[00190] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the exercise device 10 may further comprise means (not shown) to allow the exercise device 10 to be operably coupled to a generator (not shown) for the purposes of using the energy employed to actuate the rotation of the flywheel 40 to generate electricity.

[00191] In other embodiments, the hand crank 50 and the foot crank 60 may be operably coupled so that a force applied to one of the hand crank 50 or the foot crank 60 assists movement of the other in use. In this arrangement, a user can rely on the selectively actuated hand crank 50 or foot crank 60 to prolong the exercise of the corresponding part of the body to which the other actuating means relates in the event the user starts to tire.

[00192] In other embodiments, the support means for supporting the base 30 is not limited to the plurality of feet 38 as described above, but may be any suitable support including, but not limited to, a rubber skirt portion (not shown).

[00193] In other embodiments, the drive means is not limited to the drive shaft 80 as described above, but may comprise a chain or belt drive (not shown).

[00194] In other embodiments the detachable base 30 is not limited to that described above, but may be adapted to enable the detachable base (not shown), once detached from the frame 20, to be stacked one on top of another detachable base (not shown) when not in use for the purpose of storage and/or transportation.

[00195] In other embodiments, the cover portion 35 may have a vinyl, wooden or similar flooring style surface finish, such that when placed on a floor having a corresponding floor finish, the detachable base 30 can blend in with its surroundings. In another example, where the floor has been adapted to comprise a recessed portion (not shown) of corresponding dimensions to the detachable base 30, the detachable base 30 can be concealed within the recessed portion of the floor. In this arrangement, the frame 20 can be detached from the detachable base 30 and stored separately, while the recessed portion containing the detachable base 30 can be covered using a cover (not shown) to fully conceal the detachable base 30, thereby enabling the floor to be used for other activities.

[00196] In other embodiments it will be appreciated that some or all of the sprag bearings (freewheel means) 117, 135, 155 and 165 may be replaced or supplemented with selectively engageable clutches of either manual or electronic operation.

[00197] In other embodiments it will be appreciated that the precise location and/or orientation of the sprag bearings (freewheel means) may vary while still accomplishing the same functional purpose of allowing the selective exercise of the upper and/or lower body.

[00198] In other In other embodiments it will be appreciated that the drive gear assembly comprising a sun gear 180, and three planetary gears 190, 200 and 210, which are operably coupled to the sun gear 180, may be omitted from the operable connection between the flywheel 40 and flywheel shaft portion 1 10.

[00199] In other embodiments it will be appreciated that a second resistance means may be added, against which the upper actuating means is actuable.

Interpretation

Embodiments:

[00200] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment' or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[00201] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[00202] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

[00203] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different Instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

[00204] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[00205] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Comprising and Including

[00206] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[00207] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[00208] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[00209] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

[00210] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the exercise and recreational industries.