FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to physical exercise equipment and more specifically to a device for performing “plank” exercises in an improved way. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The “plank” (also called a front hold, hover, or abdominal bridge) is an isometric core strength exercise that involves maintaining a position similar to a push up for the maximum possible time. The most common plank is the forearm plank which is held in a push-up-like position, with the body's weight borne on forearms, elbows, and toes. Many variations exist such as the side plank and the reverse plank.

Plank exercises have become a well-known training method in many countries around the world. A number of mechanical products have been developed for these exercises to improve the individual’s ability to perform the plank exercise. Until now, most of the plank exercise devices have been static and/or based upon the specifics of the individual exerciser (according to the height, weight, size etc. of the person and /or exercise device). Legacy plank devices provide options and / or components to increase the ability of the exerciser to perform the plank better and / or more comfortably, but there still is no product available that offers a diverse range of options to dramatically improve plank exercises.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention there is provided an exercise device, including: two supports for forearms of a user; a connecting member coupled to the two supports, each of the two support adjustably coupled to the connecting member; and a base supporting a spherical movement mechanism adapted to facilitate gyroscopic maneuvering of the connecting member resting on the spherical movement mechanism. According to further features each of the supports is configured to be individually moved laterally along the connecting member.

According to further features the exercise device further includes a locking mechanism for each of the supports, the locking mechanisms adapted to secure the supports along the connecting member. According to further features each of the two supports is coupled to the connecting member by a rotational element and configured to move radially about an axis of the rotational element, relative to the connecting member.

According to further features each of the supports is adapted to be coupled to a tensioning arrangement, the tensioning arrangement biasing the respective support against radial movement counter to a tensioning direction of the tensioning arrangement. According to further features the tensioning arrangement includes an elastic member coupled between one of the supports and the base. According to further features the exercise device further includes a tightening mechanism that constricts movement of the connecting member relative to the base. According to further features the tightening mechanism is adapted to increase pressure on the connecting member. According to further features the tightening mechanism includes a torque arrangement, whereby twisting the torque arrangement increases the pressure.

According to further features the exercise device further includes a computer device holder. According to further features the spherical movement mechanism is a ball-in-socket joint.

According to further features the exercise device further includes a movement restrictor, wherein the restrictor is adapted to selectively constrict movement of the spherical movement mechanism. According to further features the spherical movement mechanism has movement states selected from the group including: a non- constricted state, a partially constricted state, and an immobilized state.

According to further features each support includes a forearm rest, and a hand grip. According to further features the forearm rest includes an elbow section and an ulna section.

According to another embodiment there is provided a method of exercising, including: providing an exercise device, including: two forearm supports, a connecting member to which the forearm supports are coupled; and a base supporting a movement mechanism adapted to facilitate movement of the connecting member; wherein the supports are adjustably coupled to the connecting member; placing forearms in the forearm supports; and exercising different muscles while maintaining a plank posture, a plank-like posture, or a modified plank posture. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “forearm” refers to the lower half of the arm that extends from the elbow joint to the hand. It is made up of the ulna and radius bones.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1A and IB are front and back views respectively of an example embodiment of the exercise device;

FIG. 1C is a view of the exercise device 100 with a cover of the connecting member removed;

FIG. 2 A is another example embodiment of the exercise device;

FIG. 2B is a top-down view of the example embodiment of the exercise device 200, demonstrating adjustments that can be made to the device;

FIG. 2C is a magnified view of the locking mechanism 212;

FIG. 2D is a magnified view of the angle locking mechanism;

FIG. 2E is a perspective view of the ball-and-socket joint with a movement restrictor;

FIG. 3 is a rear view of an example device 300.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The principles and operation of an exercise device according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.

Figures 1A and IB are front and back views respectively of an example embodiment of the exercise device. Exercise device 100 includes two supports 110 (110L and 11 OR) for supporting the upper body of a person in a plank position / posture. Each support (also referred to herein as support members and/or variations thereof) includes a forearm rest 120, and a hand grip 130. In some embodiments, the hand grip 130 is foldable between a lying down position and a raised position. Preferably, the mechanism can lock in the raised position.

In some embodiments, the forearm rest is a single component that supports the entire forearm (elbow to wrist), whereas in other embodiments, the forearm rest 120 has an elbow section 122 and an ulna section 124, so named for section of the forearm each is configured to support. A connecting member or bar 140 connects the supports 110 together. The connecting member 140 may be a board, panel, bar or some other coupling arrangement that runs transverse (or in a perpendicular direction) to the direction of the person using the device, where that latter direction is taken from head to toe. In all embodiments, at least the section that supports the elbow overlaps, or sits on top of, the connecting member / bar 140.

The supports 110 are movably / adjustably coupled to the connecting member 140. Much of the versatility of the device is found in the relationship between the supports 110 and the connecting member 140. In embodiments, each the supports 110 can be individually moved laterally along the connecting member 140 in order to change their respective locations and/or the relative distance between the two supports. Each support can be moved along at least a portion of the length between a midpoint of the connecting member and a respective outer edge thereof.

In embodiments, each of the supports 110 has a locking mechanism 112 which is adapted to secure the supports along the length of the connecting member 140. In some embodiments, these the supports are locked to the connecting member at preconfigured locations. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes an element or elements which is/are adapted to couple with a receiving member 142 on the connection member 140, in preconfigured locations along the connecting member, in order to secure the support to the connecting member. The example locking mechanism seen best in Fig. IB includes an attachment piece 112 that is notched, and the receiving member(s) is/are a series of slots or apertures 142.

In embodiments, the locking mechanism may be an elastic/plastic latch with a slot formed in the latch, where the slot is fitted over one of a plurality of notches formed on the connecting member. The latch being adapted to be deformed (e.g., lifted) such that the slot is freed from the notch, the latch then being laterally slid (e.g., on a rail) to a selected position and released so as to elastically return to its resting state, with the slot fitting over a different notch. Indeed, any mechanism for selectively positioning the support along the connecting member and locking that support in place, that would be obvious to one skilled in the art, in view of the present disclosure, is considered to be within the scope of the invention.

In the same, similar or different embodiments (e.g., embodiments which do not include a lateral positioning mechanism), each of the supports / support members 110 is coupled to the connecting member 140 by a rotational element, such as a swivel joint 114 and configured to move radially about the axis of the swivel joint (Z- Axis, see particularly Fig. IB).

In some embodiments, the supports can move in a free, un-constricted manner. In embodiments, the supports can be fixed at selected angles (e.g., using a locking mechanism). In embodiments, each of the supports is adapted to be coupled to a tensioning arrangement, where the tensioning arrangement biases the respective support in a particular direction, making it harder to move (swivel) the support in a radial movement that is counter to the biasing or resistance force or counter to a tensioning direction of the tensioning arrangement. Examples are discussed in further detail below. In embodiments, the tensioning arrangement includes an elastic member coupled between one of the supports and the base (see for example Fig. 4).

In embodiments, the exercise device 100 is supported by a base 150. In embodiments, the base holds, houses and/or supports a multiplane / spherical movement mechanism adapted to facilitate gyroscopic maneuvering of the connecting member. In embodiments, the spherical movement mechanism is a ball-in-socket joint 160, where a spherical / hemispherical member (ball) 162 moves within a housing (socket) 164 (see Fig. 1C). The spherical movement mechanism allows for movement of the connecting member, and hence the support members, about the roll (X-Axis), pitch (Y-Axis) and yaw (Z-Axis) axes.

In embodiments, the exercise device further includes a movement restrictor, wherein the restrictor is adapted to selectively constrict movement of the spherical movement mechanism. According to such embodiments, the spherical movement mechanism 160 has movement states selected from the group including: a non- constricted state, a partially constricted state, and an immobilized state.

Figure 1C depicts exercise device 100 with a cover of the connecting member removed. In the example embodiment, device 100 includes a tightening mechanism 170 that functions as a movement constrictor. Tightening mechanism 170 includes two straps 172 disposed on either end of the connecting member, bar 140. Each strap 172 is coupled to the base on one end and to a torquing mechanism on the other end. The straps are fed around pulleys 174 which are disposed on either end of the bar 140. In the example embodiment, the straps 172 are coupled to the base, on one end, and to the torquing mechanism on the other end, by rings 176 that are disposed and/or attached on/to the ends of each strap. The torquing mechanism includes two rods 178 and a twisting nob or screw 180 in the center of the bar 140. The twisting nob either pulls the rods 178 closer to the center or pushes them outwards from the center. By drawing the rods closer to the center, the straps 172 tighten the bar 140 to the base, thereby restricting the movement (especially, but not only, about the roll axis) of the bar.

A tension-free bar requires the user to balance their own body, without relying on resistance from / stability of the bar. On the other hand, immobilizing the bar, or at least increasing the tension to minimize movement using the torquing mechanism, allows the user to do various modified plank exercises and/or one-sided plank exercises.

In embodiments, the device 100 further includes a holder 190 for a computer device 192. For example, the computer device may be a smartphone, a tablet, or a dedicated (i.e., integrated) computing device with a display (e.g., a touchscreen display). In embodiments, the holder is adapted to hold the computing device in a landscape and/or portrait orientation (relative to the user). The computing device may be configured to run a companion application which provides instructions, videos, illustrations, gameplay, audio output for the user to employ while using the exercise device 100. In embodiments, the companion application (app) may utilize the onboard gyroscope in the computing device (if present) to monitor, instruct, correct and/or otherwise synergize between the exercise device and the computing device. In some embodiments, software for data gathering, control, review and performance optimization in real time and/or for future reference may be included in the app or integrated computing device. Additionally, or alternatively, the device may include a mechanical panel (e.g., containing a water level) and /or electronic panel for review and control.

Another possible configuration is shown in Figures 2A-2E. Figure 2A depicts another example embodiment of the exercise device. Device 200 includes two support members 210. The support members include concave arm cushions 220 that support the entire forearm and hand grips 230 at the distal end of the support member.

A connecting member or rail 240 connects the support 210 together. According to the present embodiment, the rail includes measurement markings, and various adjustment mechanisms discussed hereafter. Rail 140 runs transverse (or in a perpendicular direction) to the direction of the person using the device, where that latter direction is taken from head to toe.

The support members 210 are movably /adjustably coupled to the connecting member / rail 140. Much of the versatility of the device is found in the relationship between the supports 210 and the connecting member / rail 240. In embodiments, each the supports 210 can be individually moved laterally along the rail 240 in order to change their respective locations and/or the relative distance between the two support members. Each support member can be moved along at least a portion of the length between a midpoint of the rail and a respective outer edge thereof.

In the depicted embodiment, each of the supports 210 has a locking mechanism 212 which is adapted to couple with a receiving member on the rail 240, in preconfigured locations along the connecting member, in order to secure the support to the connecting member. The locking mechanism 212 may be a spring- loaded pin that slots into preformed indents (receiving member) in the connecting member (see Fig. 2C).

Figure 2B depicts a top-down view of the example embodiment of the exercise device 200, demonstrating adjustments that can be made to the device. Figure 2C is a magnified view of the locking mechanism 212. Figure 2D is a magnified view of the angle locking mechanism. In Fig. 2B the left support member 210 is closer to the center than the right support member, having been moved laterally along the rail and locked in place. The locking mechanism 212 includes a handle 214 for releasably locking the support in place. The mechanism further includes a distance window 216, which frames the relative distance in centimeters from the midpoint of rail 240.

The right support member is fixed at angle. An angle window 224 frames the specific angle measurement on an angle ruler 226. An angle locking arrangement can tightly or loosely hold the support member at the selected angle.

Referring also once again to Fig. 2A, the device optionally includes weights 235 whose position can be adjusted along rail 240. Moving the weights changes the distribution of weight and tension, thereby allowing the user to customize / modify the exercise.

The exercise device 200 rest on legs 250. In embodiments, the legs are foldable. The legs hold, houses and/or supports a multiplane / spherical movement mechanism adapted to facilitate gyroscopic maneuvering of the connecting member. In embodiments, the spherical movement mechanism is a ball-in-socket joint, where a spherical member (ball) 262 moves within a housing (socket) 264. The spherical movement mechanism allows for movement of the connecting member, and hence the support members, about the roll (X-Axis), pitch (Y-Axis) and yaw (Z-Axis) axes (see Fig. IB which applies, mutatis mutandis to the current embodiment).

Figure 2E illustrates the ball-and-socket joint with a movement restrictor. In embodiments, the exercise device further includes a movement restrictor 266. The movement restrictor is adapted to selectively constrict movement of the spherical movement mechanism. According to such embodiments, the spherical movement mechanism has movement states selected from the group including: a non-constricted state, a partially constricted state, and an immobilized state. The example movement constrictor depicted in Fig. 2E is a pressure screw arrangement whereby rotating the screw 266 clockwise increases pressure of the screw (and/or other intermediate component(s) interposed between the screw and the ball) on the ball, thereby increasing friction between the components. The screw mechanism, as mentioned, can cause no resistance, some resistance or can completely immobilize the joint.

In the depicted, example embodiment, device 200 further includes a holder 290 for a computer device 292. For example, the computer device may be a smartphone, a tablet, or a dedicated (i.e., integrated) computing device with a display (e.g., a touchscreen display). In embodiments, the holder is adapted to hold the computing device in a landscape and/or portrait orientation (relative to the user). The computing device may be configured to run a companion application which provides instructions, videos, illustrations, gameplay, audio output for the user to employ while using the exercise device 100. In embodiments, the companion application (app) may utilize the onboard gyroscope in the computing device (if present) to monitor, instruct, correct and/or otherwise synergize between the exercise device and the computing device. In some embodiments, software for data gathering, control, review and performance optimization in real time and/or for future reference may be included in the app or integrated computing device. Additionally, or alternatively, the device may include a mechanical panel (e.g., containing a water level) and /or electronic panel for review and control.

Yet another configuration is depicted in Figure 3. Fig. 3 depicts a rear view of an example device 300. The depicted in Figs. 1A-1C. The description of device 100 should be seen as if repeated fully herein mutatis mutandis. One additional feature not shown previously is a tensioning mechanism or arrangement whereby an elastic member 302, e.g., a stretchable resistance band, couples a forearm support 310 to a base 350 of the device. In the depicted example embodiment, the forearm support 310 has a metal loop 312, to which a snap hook or carabiner 304 can be attached. The carabiner can also be attached to the elastic member. Now, when attempting to radially swivel the forearm, while in the plank position, the user will have an additional challenge of working against the resistance / biasing / tension force created by the elastic member 302 which tethers the arm support 310 to the base 350.

There is provided an improved method of exercising stomach, back, forearm muscles as well as many more muscles. The method includes the steps of providing an exercise device according to any one of the embodiments discussed above.

The plank exercise device includes at least the two forearm supports, a connecting member / bar / rail to which the forearm supports are coupled, a base or legs supporting a movement mechanism upon which the connecting member lies. The device is adapted to facilitate movement of the connecting member. The forearm supports are adjustably coupled to the connecting member.

The next step is for a user to place his/her forearms in the forearm supports. The user then assumes the plank position / posture and proceeds to exercise different muscles while maintaining a plank posture, a plank-like posture, or a modified plank posture. The user may activate an exercise plan, game, tutorial etc. on a computing device placed or installed in a holder.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made. Therefore, the claimed invention as recited in the claims that follow is not limited to the embodiments described herein.