RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/151,857, filed on 23 April 2015, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to luggage apparatus for carrying items and the arts of weightlifting, cross training, and fitness. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a portable weight training backpack with the capability of accepting weight bladders or other weights therein for stable weight training efforts, collapsing for transport, or being used as luggage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many types of compact luggage pieces have been developed and are available for use to carry items. One popular style of such luggage is the backpack. Backpacks may include shoulder and waste straps, flat or padded, so they may be worn over a person's shoulders or on their back. Backpacks may be used, for example, to carry school books, carry clothing or personal items, and carry equipment.

Working out, weight framing, and fitness have increased in popularity recently. Muscle development and fitness is accomplished most commonly by lifting weights attached to various devices, using dumbbells, barbells, and other additional weights. The devices may vary from a weight bench to machines with cantilevers to weightlifting devices with pulley systems. These devices are expensive, large, may require a second person for safety reasons, and they are not portable. In addition to gym work, weightlifters generally wish, but find it difficult, to continue framing when they are away from their home or gym.

Some weight training devices have been designed to accomplish the task of increasing resistance by adding extra weight to the upper body for work both inside and/or outside of the gym setting, e.g., while running or performing resistance training. However, this approach may raise the center of gravity and create problems with balance. Other devices have been developed that suspend weight from the waist, but involve cumbersome and uncomfortable equipment. Consequently, weightlifters, fitness professionals, and amateurs look for a variety portable weights and exercise implements, e.g., dumbbells, ankle weights, as well as a means to increase resistance. Portable weights are still relatively heavy and cumbersome to carry while traveling, e.g., through an airport, and heretofore, resistance training has suffered from a lack of devices with high functionality. There is a need for a highly portable, easy to carry, weight system appropriate for weight training and/or resistance training. The development of a novel, portable, and balanced weight system would be a valuable tool for weightlifters and others when traveling or simply away from the gym. The present invention solves this need by providing a novel weight training backpack. The present invention solves each of these shortcomings by providing a comfortable, backpack style, adjustable piece of fitness, e.g., weight training, equipment in the form of a portable weight training backpack with the capability of accepting weight bladders or other weights therein for stable weight training efforts, and then capable of collapsing for transport or being used as luggage. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the existing drawbacks and prior art by providing for a portable, weight training backpack that is useful for weight training exercises, or

alternatively, for resistance training, or alternatively, as luggage. It provides a portable and simple apparatus that is easily convertible between a backpack configuration and a weight framing apparatus configuration.

Weight framing exercises with the present invention through engagement with appropriate hand sfrap(s) may include, for example, dead lifts, bent over row, hang power cleans, hang squat cleans, high pulls, and single arm presses. In addition to performing weight training exercises with the weight training backpack, exercises that utilize the user's own body weight as the source of resistance - resistance framing - may be performed by filling the backpack compartments) with weight and wearing the backpack in a traditional backpack orientation, i.e., over the shoulders, in either a frontal or rearward facing position. Exemplary resistance exercises include squats, pull-ups, chin-ups, dips and other similar exercised that are often performed without machines or weights. After the user has performed these exercises for an extended period of time, their body weight may not be adequate to fully train the target muscles. The present invention provides a means for providing a source of resistance in addition to the body weight of the user. By adding weight to provide more resistance and, in turn, overall conditioning, such exercises are some of the most effective weight training exercises. The benefits of the weight training backpack are threefold. First, the backpack facilitates convenient and portable weight training equipment by allowing the user to simply fill and empty the weight bladder(s), second, the additional weight may be supported by the backpack and used for increased resistance training, and third, collapsible weight bladders give way to sufficient internal space to utilize the backpack as luggage.

In some embodiments, the invention is a backpack which is worn during body shaping exercises to increase the mass of the user's body. This added weight, requires the user's muscles to produce more force to move the weight of the user and the additional weight. This technique is easily applied to the following types of exercises: the push-up, the incline push- up, the pull-up, the chin-up, the behind the head pull-up, horizontal pull-up (which exercises the muscles across the back similar to a barbell row), dips (which exercise the triceps, pectorals, and latissimus dorsi), bend-over (which exercises the lower back muscles and lmmstrings), sit-up, lunge, one leg-squat, and one leg toe raise. Nearly every muscle group can be trained using this inventkm. The backpack may accept and hold weight and removeably attaches, or mounts, weight to the body of the user in the same manner as a standard backpack. This allows the wearer complete use of his arms for upper body exercise and for support or balancing during lower body exercise.

In some embodiments, the detachable shoulder straps and optional waste strap are removed and the backpack used as the free weight itself.

Broadly, the present invention contemplates a weight training backpack, comprising: a main body defining a main compartment having at least one sealing mechanism; at least one detachable shoulder strap; at least one support strap; and a plurality of hand straps, wherein the main body has a front panel, a back panel, opposing side panels, and a bottom panel, wherein the main body defines a main compartment that is accessed through a sealing mechanism or opening opposite the bottom panel. The main compartment may further comprise at least one internal sub-compartment. The backpack may further comprise at least one weight bladder which may have a coordinating fastening means for stabilizing the at least one weight bladder within the main compartment, and therefore, the main compartment may further comprise at least one weight bladder fastening means. The at least one detachable shoulder strap having a first and second end, the first end coupled to an upper portion of the back panel, the second end coupled to a lower portion of the back panel, the side panel, or the intersection between the back and side panels. The at least one support strap affixed in a transverse and/or longitudinal orientation to the main body of the backpack, the support strap further comprising at least one adjustment means for constricting, collapsing, and releasing the backpack when engaged. The at least one or a plurality of hand straps are mounted to the main body of the backpack and strategically positioned for optimal exercise engagement by the user.

When practiced as disclosed herein, the present invention provides a portable backpack for weight training that may be emptied and collapsed for easy and light transport, or utilized to transport collapsed weight bladders and/or personal belongings. The present invention, thus, is useful as disclosed above, but it is not intended to be limited to these uses.

The present invention is a weight training backpack comprising: a main body having at least a front panel, a back panel, opposing side panels and a bottom panel, the main body defining a main compartment and an opening opposite the bottom panel, each panel having an interior surface within the main compartment, and main compartment access through the opening or by a sealing mechanism; at least one shoulder strap having a first and second end, the first end removably coupled to an upper portion of the back panel or side panel, the second end removably coupled to a lower portion of the back panel or side panel; at least one support strap affixed to the main body, and a plurality of hand straps. The at least one shoulder strap further comprises an adjustment means. The at least one support strap comprises a plurality of support straps, comprising a first transverse support strap, a second transverse support strap, and a longitudinal support strap.

In the present invention, the plurality of hand straps may be functionally coupled to the at least one support strap. The plurality of hand straps may be integrally combined with the at least one support strap. The plurality of hand straps may consist of at least one hand strap functionally coupled to a transverse support strap, and at least one hand strap integrally combined with a longitudinal support strap.

The present invention may further comprise a waste strap removably coupled to a lower portion of the back panel or side panels. The waist strap may further comprise an adjustment means.

The present invention may further comprise at least one sub-compartment. The at least one sub-compartment may be a sleeve, the at least one sleeve affixed onto the interior surface of at least one panel of the main body, the sleeve having a body, a left and right side, the sleeve affixed at each of the left and right sides. The at least one sub-compartment may be a pocket, the at least one pocket affixed onto the interior surface of at least one panel of the main body, the pocket having a body, a left and right side, and a bottom side, the pocket affixed and enclosed on all three sides.

The present invention may further comprise exterior pockets defined by main body and accessed through a sealing mechanism, at least one fastening means for securing a weight bladder affixed to the internal surface of at least one panel of the main compartment or a sub- compartment.

The weight training backpack of the present invention may have a sealing mechanism that is a folding functionality and adjustment element combination.

The weight training backpack disclosed herein may further comprise at least one weight bladder, wherein the weight bladder is a collapsible container.

Also disclosed herein is a weight training backpack comprising: a main body having at least a front panel, a back panel, and a bottom panel, the main body defining a main compartment and an opening opposite the bottom panel, each panel having an interior surface within the main compartment, and main compartment through the opening or by a sealing mechanism; at least one shoulder strap having a first and second end, the first end removably coupled to an upper portion of the back panel or side panel, the second end removably coupled to a lower portion of the back panel or side panel; at least one support strap affixed to the main body, and a plurality of hand straps.

Also disclosed herein is a weight training backpack comprising: a main body having a top panel, front panel, a back panel, opposing side panels, and a bottom panel, the main body defining a main compartment, each panel having an interior surface within the main compartment, and main compartment access by a sealing mechanism; at least one shoulder strap having a first and second end, the first end removably coupled to an upper portion of the back panel or side panel, the second end removably coupled to a lower portion of the back panel or side panel; at least one support strap affixed to the main body, and a plurality of hand straps. The sealing mechanism in the backpack may be disposed on the top panel.

The presently described backpack is particularly useful for weight training outside of the gym environment, but may be used or adapted for use in myriad manners, including within the gym environment. It is an object of the present invention to provide a light weight, easy to use, portable apparatus for weight training or luggage for travel. It is another object of the present invention to provide a backpack that is relatively simple structurally, and thus, simple to use, simple to manufacture, and easily collapsed, assembled and/or disassembled for use and/or portability.

It is an object of this invention to provide a means to perform many of the exercises done in a gym in some other location with a minimum of expense, equipment, and weight. It is also an object of this invention to provide a simple, safe, and convenient manner to add additional weight to weight trainer's body to increase the results of resistance training. Another object of this invention is to allow easy changes of weight or position of weight relative to the body during different parts of an exercise program.

It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements and arrangements thereof in a weight lifting luggage backpack for the purposes described which is fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

These and other objects, features, and advantages will be further refined, highlighted, and made apparent in the following detailed description of the disclosed embodiment and the appended drawings and claims. When practiced as disclosed herein, the present invention provides a novel piece of weight training equipment. The present invention, thus, is useful as disclosed herein, but is not intended to be limited to these uses.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the present invention.

Figure 1 depicts a front perspective of the weight training backpack of the present invention in ready-to-use mode incorporating the folding functionality and adjustment element combination sealing mechanism embodiment, an external pocket, a plurality of hand straps, and a plurality of support straps.

Figure 2 depicts a left perspective of the weight training backpack of the present invention shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a rear perspective view of the weight training backpack of the present invention shown in Figure 1 having removably coupled shoulder straps and a removably coupled waste strap.

Figure 4 depicts the internal compartment of the backpack comprising a sleeve and a pocket disposed therein, a weight bladder seeded into the sleeve and removably coupled to the interior surface of the back panel of the main compartment via an attachment means.

Figure 5 depicts a rear perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the weight training backpack of the present invention.

Figure 6 depicts a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the weight training backpack of the present invention.

Elements and facts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The embodiments of the present invention described herein provide exemplary embodiments only, and are not intended to be exhaustive, limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the description of the exemplary embodiments provides those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It is understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well known processes, structures, and techniques may be shown or discussed without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts.

Accordingly, various implementations may be very broadly adopted and applicable.

Described herein is a weight framing backpack comprising various features, including a main body defining a main compartment, at least one shoulder strap, one or a plurality of hand straps, and at least one support strap. The weight training backpack may include one or more compartments, sub-compartments, or other features, such as, internal and/or external pocket compartments or sleeves. Broadly, embodiments of the present invention comprise the same general elements: a main body, the main body defining a main compartment, at least one detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, one or a plurality of hand straps, and at least one support strap running transversely about the main body and/or at least one support strap running longitudinally about the main body. The weight training backpack may further comprise at least one detachable waist strap. The weight training backpack may further comprise at least one weight bladder. The present invention may further comprise a soft or rigid collapsible frame, or other standard backpack or weight training components. These and other aspects of the present invention will be apparent from the drawings, the detailed description, and the appended claims. The listing of objects of the invention should not be deemed as all-inclusive in any manner whatsoever.

The present invention is directed to a weight training backpack for use in performing exercises that may utilize at least one weight filled, collapsible bladder housed within the backpack as a source of resistance. The present invention has, in addition to adjustable shoulder straps, shoulder straps that are completely detachable from the backpack main body, at least one strategically placed hand strap for use while utilizing the backpack for weight training exercise, at least one support strap to maintain the backpack character in use and collapse the backpack when engaged, an optional at least one internal sub-compartment disposed within a main compartment, and an optional at least one attachment means for stabilizing the at least one or a plurality of weight bladders. Once the user has inserted the one or more weight bladders into the main compartment and/or sub-compartment to reach a desired weight, various exercises can be performed. The effective weight may be controlled, e.g., by the number and/or size of weight bladders used, the type of filler used in a weight bladder, or a combination thereof. The weight bladders may be standard commercially available bladders, or alternatively may be specialized bladders, and further may be marked with indicia corresponding to specific weight measurements. When not in use, the one or a plurality of weight bladders may be emptied of weight and collapsed and stored either inside the backpack or elsewhere, while the backpack member itself may be neatly stored in a collapsed state, easily transported, or utilized as a lightweight piece of luggage with or without the bladders stored therein. The weight training backpack, thus, is a multifunctional apparatus that simply and easily transforms from weight training apparatus to lightweight luggage.

The present invention holds the basic configuration of a "standard" backpack, wherein a main compartment is defined by a main body of the backpack. In some embodiments, the backpack may have at least one sealing mechanism, e.g. zipper, Velcro™, snaps, hooks, ties, drawstring, buttons, folding functionality and adjustment element combination, through which the main compartment may be accessed. The sealing mechanism may run, e.g., vertically, diagonally, horizontally, or other directionally, for the full- or partial-length of any of the panels, i.e., side, front, top, bottom, back, of the backpack. The sealing mechanism may be centrally disposed, or off-center in any of the configurations. The main compartment is defined by the panels. Disposed on the external wall or walls, in various positions on the panels, i.e., front, back, bottom, top, side, of the main backpack compartment is at least one hand strap, preferably a plurality of hand straps, more preferably at least six or more hand straps, integrated with or functionally coupled to at least one support strap. Optionally disposed internally in the main compartment is at least one attachment means for securing at least one weight bladder therein. Optionally disposed in the main compartment is at least one sleeve for, e.g., securing the at least one weight bladder therein. Optionally disposed in the main compartment is at least one pocket. In the present invention, the backpack may comprise removably coupled shoulder straps and/or a waste strap. With the removably coupled shoulder straps and/or waste strap coupled to the main body of the backpack and mounted on a user, the present invention can be used for, for example, various resistance exercises, including squats, pull-ups, chin-ups, and dips. Each shoulder strap may be positioned at the back of the backpack and coupled to the main body at both a first end and opposite second end. Each shoulder strap may be coupled to the upper portion of the main body at a first end, and coupled to the lower portion of the main body at an opposite second end. In some embodiments, the shoulder strap may be coupled to the lower portion of the main body via an adjustment means, such as an adjustment strap and buckle combination, or the like. When using the weight training backpack, the backpack may be positioned on the front of the user for certain exercises (forward facing with at least the shoulder straps engaged), or worn in the fashion of standard backpack (rearward facing with at least the should straps engaged) for other exercises. With the detachable shoulder and/or waste straps removed, the present invention may be used for, for example, dead lifts, bent over row, hang power cleans, and hang squat cleans. The weight training backpack facilitates rapid movement from one exercise to the next by simply moving user's hands to different, appropriately placed hand straps. The user is also able to add or remove weight to provide additional or lower resistance, respectively, for overall conditioning of the body.

The term "backpack" as used herein, generically includes any carry-bag having at least one compartment with at least one shoulder strap. That is, carry bags those skilled in the art would specifically call by the name backpack, or by at least partly analogous term such as luggage, pack, knapsack, tote, sack, pack, rucksack, haversack, carryall, duffle, shoulder bad, messenger bag, satchel, or the like. Certainly one skilled in the art is aware that the present invention is also applicable to the conventional carry bag production, for example, purse, suitcase, and the like as well as other bags and/or packs. The general process for producing a bag or sack is known to those skilled in the art. The present invention adds to the concepts of backpack and weight training, and overcomes(s) the shortcomings of the prior art.

As used herein, the term "collapsed" is a relative term and should not be read or interpreted as limiting or as connoting any particular arrangement other than in the relative sense.

As used herein, the term "hand strap" generally includes the part by which an apparatus is held, carried, or controlled, and further includes any and all types of handles and constructions thereof. Hand straps of the invention are not limited to the types specifically set forth herein, and may be, for example, padded, unpadded, hard, soft, flexible, inflexible, sheathed, or unsheathed.

As used herein, the term "weight" refers to a heavy object, especially one being lifted or carried during exercise. Those skilled in the art recognize that weight also includes at least partly analogous terms, such as, heavy load, mass, and object. In some embodiments of the present invention, weight is utilized in conjunction with a bladder. What is meant by "bladder" is a flexible sac or bag, for example such as the rubber bag, that is filled with fluid (liquid and/or gas), or granular material, e.g., sand, rice, beans, or mixtures, e.g., pebbles, rocks, metal balls, pellets (BBs), or solids, or combinations thereof. In its broadest embodiment, a bladder is anything that is hollow and may be inflated or filled, i.e., flexible and capable of holding fluid, particles, solids, mixtures, or combinations thereof. In some cases, bladders may be defined as stretchable or malleable. Those skilled in the art recognize that the term bladder also includes at least partly analogous terms, such as, vesicle, bag, packet, sac, blister, balloon, cavity, container, and cell. For clarity, a bladder employed for the purposes of providing weight to the present invention may also be referred as a weight bladder.

Weight bladders in the present invention are removably engaged with the main backpack body by insertion into a main compartment or various sub-compartments, e.g., pockets or sleeves, located within or about the main compartment or on the external panels defining the main backpack body. In use, weight bladders may preferably be weighted by filling them with, e.g., water, gel, sand, and/or pebbles, that may be emptied or removed prior to collapsing the weight bladder. Material appropriate for use with weight bladders of the present invention includes any and all materials that may be easily inserted into and removed from the bladder. Weight bladders may have preprinted indicia providing fill level guidelines for varied weights. In addition to weight bladders for use with external materials, pre-filled, sealed, and weight indicia marked weight bladders may be employed in combination with the present invention. Weight bladders may be removably secured within the main backpack body via a fastening means, for example, snap, Vetera™, clip, fastener, two-sided tape, or any other appropriate and useful fastening means. Alternatively, when used individually, a single weight bladder may be inserted into the at least one internal sleeve within the main compartment for stabilization. In another alternative, one or multiple weight bladders may be inserted without engagement of a fastening means and float freely with the main compartment. Alternative weight in place of weight bladders intended for use with the present invention may include, for example, standard weight discs, standard weight dumbbells, canned goods, bottled liquids, and the like. References to position and/or direction, e.g., top, bottom, side, front, back, lower, upper, are provided by way of example to aid in description and understanding. They should not be read to be requirement or limitation, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the invention unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references, e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of element and relative movement between elements.

Therefore, two elements are not necessarily directly connected or in fixed relation to the other, unless specifically set forth in the claims

The main body components, shoulder and waist straps, and hand straps of the present invention may be constructed of any number of materials, e.g., textiles. The choice of materials utilized for construction of individual components may be based upon, for example, strength, flexibility, weight, aesthetics, cost, manufacturing, or other desirable attributes. Various materials may be utilized in the construction of the backpack in accordance with the present invention. No limitation with respect to the same is expressed. It is contemplated that various rip-stop, waterproof, water-resistant, rubberized, abrasion-resistant, and similar material as well as combinations thereof be provided as required. Examples of materials include, but are not limited to, ballistic nylon, fabric membrane, nylon, vinyl, plastic, Gore-Tex™, Cordura™ fabric, permeable-like canvas, composite material, combinations thereof or the like. The backpack may be made from any material suitable in strength and character to support the stress of use and the weight inserted therein.

In general, the configuration and size, and potential limitations thereof, of the present invention is not bound by either theory or convention. The size may range, for example, from 4" x 4" up to size of a standard "heavy bag." The size and configuration of the body of the invention is determined based on weight limit of construction material and intended use. For ease of understanding, the present invention is described herein in terms of standard or average backpack known to students and hikers, and a preferred embodiment, having approximate dimensions of 20" tall x 11.5" wide x 8" deep. The present invention may use the same or similar configuration, or a different configuration, with or without adjustments and/or additions based on size and intended use and as necessary.

Some embodiments of the present invention comprise at least one basically transverse to the main body of the backpack support strap, and/or at least one basically longitudinal to the main body of the backpack support strap. A plurality of hand straps may be integrated with and/or functionally coupled to the longitudinal and/or transverse support straps. In some embodiments, at least one hand strap is functionally coupled to the at least one transverse support strap. Hand straps functionally coupled to the at least one transverse support strap may be constructed of tubular webbing with a tubular stiff element inserted therethrough in order to provide a solid handle with external padding and grip aspects. In some embodiments, at least one hand strap is integrated with the at least one longitudinal support strap. Hand straps integrated with the at least one longitudinal support starts may be constructed of tubular webbing with padding inserted therethrough in order to provide a softer, comfortable grip hand strap. However, any of the hand straps may be constructed of material appropriate for production and intended use thereof.

The backpack main body may be constructed in any shape, for example, having at least one overriding shape, e.g., rectangle, triangle, square, circle, oval, provided the chosen shape does not negatively alter the functionality of the backpack.

The invention may be used either alone or in combination with other weightlifting, exercise, or the like, devices. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the disclosed apparatus of the present invention can be readily incorporated into one of the established formats for weightlifting and exercise, and the like, which are well known in the art. The backpack of the present invention offers significant advantages over the prior art, including but not limited to, portability, low cost, ease of use, and multiple uses.

Turning now to the drawings, in which like numbers indicate like elements throughout the different figures, Figure 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of the weight training backpack of the present invention, generally indicated by the reference number 100, in ready- to-use mode, meaning that the backpack is not collapsed. The backpack 100 includes a main body 105 having a front 102, back 103, opposing side 104, and bottom 106 panels defining a main compartment 95 and an opening opposite the bottom panel. The main compartment 95 may be accessed through a sealing mechanism comprising a folding functionality and adjustment element, e.g., slider element, combination 22 (as shown in Figure 2), a sealing mechanism such as a zipper 20 (as shown in Figure 4), or any other sealing mechanism that may be now known and used or in the future. At least front 102, back 103 (shown in Figures 3 and 5), and bottom 106 panels define the main body 105, and the main body may further comprise and be defined by side panels 104. The backpack 100 may also include one or more accessory pockets defined by the main body 105 and accessed via an accessory pocket sealing mechanism 101, e.g. zipper. Multiple accessory pockets with or without sealing mechanisms (not shown in Figure 1) may be defined by the main body of the backpack or coupled to the main body of the backpack, and may be formed from material similar to the backpack or any other textile appropriate for the accessory pocket's intended use. Some embodiments of the present invention comprise at least one basically transverse to the main body support strap 71b, and/or at least one basically longitudinal to the main body support strap 70b (Figure 2). In a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a plurality of transverse support straps 70b. A plurality of hand straps 70a, 71a, may be functional coupled to and/or integrally combined with the longitudinal and/or transverse support straps.

Figure 2 depicts a left side perspective of the weight training backpack 100 of the present invention. The backpack 100 may have a plurality of hand straps 70a, 71a that maybe coupled with support straps 70b, 71b at each end of the hand straps, and may further comprise an adjustment means 72, e.g., slider element, coupling the hand straps 70a, 71a, to the support straps 70b, 71b. In a preferred embodiment, hand straps 71a are functionally coupled to support straps 71b via slider elements 72. The support straps 70b, 71b, are affixed to the main body 105 configured to run along the longitudinal and transverse axes, respectively, of the backpack 100 and function to maintain the character of the backpack by providing support and stability for the backpack 100 as a whole, as well as functioning to collapse and contain in the collapsed configuration the empty backpack 100 when engaged via adjustment means. The backpack 100 may have a plurality of hand straps 70a, 71a disposed on each of the front 102, back 103, bottom 105, or side panels 104, and may further have a top hand strap 70c that is coupled to a top panel 99 in some embodiments (Figure 4), or to the upper portion of the front panel 102 in a folding functionality and adjustment element combination sealing mechanism embodiment 22 (Figure 6), or any other suitable location. The hand straps 70a, 71a maybe coupled directly to the main body 105, to the support straps 70b, 71b via, e.g., stitching, via an adjustment means 72, or may be an integral combination element with the support straps 70b, 71b. The support straps 70b, 71b may be coupled to the main body 105 in other areas than illustrated, or additional support straps (not shown) may be added in some embodiments. In some embodiments, Figure 4, in which a top panel 99 and sealing mechanism 20, e.g., zipper, are employed, the top hand strap 70c may be coupled to the main body 105 at a location on the top panel 99. In some embodiments, the hand straps 70a, 71a, 70c may be coupled at any suitable location for facilitating the use of the weight lifting backpack (not shown).

Hand straps of the instant invention may be individual hand strap elements coupled to the support straps 70b, 71b of the back pack 100, may be integral combinations with support straps 70b, 71b of the back pack 100, may be coupled directly to the main body 105, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, there are at least two distinct types of hand straps incorporated. For example, a first hand strap 70a type may be constructed as an integral portion of a longitudinal support strap 70b, and a second hand strap 71a type may be employed as an individual hand strap element functionally coupled with a transverse support strap 71b.

As shown in the figures, a preferred support strap 70b, 71b arrangement is included in the present invention. The strap arrangement may comprise one or more transverse and one or more longitudinal support strap elements. The strap arrangement supports and stabilizes the configuration of the backpack 100 to create a stable weight lifting apparatus, thus, effectively distributing, stabilizing, and carrying weight, and therefore supporting the load and managing weight in a more stable manner than heretofore. When engaged, the adjustment means of the support straps may constrict the pack to support and balance a smaller weight load, or alternatively, maximally collapse the backpack for storage or transport

In a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 5, the transverse support strap 71b is shown having a first end 71c and second end (not shown), the first end terminating at the seam between the back panel 103 and side panel 104, the length of the strap affixed transversely across front panel 102 of the main body 105 of the backpack, the second end of the strap terminating at the opposite corresponding seam between the back panel 103 and opposite side panel 104. The backpack 100 may have a plurality of transverse support straps, preferably at least two transverse support straps. Support straps may be affixed to the main body 105 by, for example, sewing, bonding, adhering, snapping, or thermal welding, or the like, or any appropriate affixation method now known or known in the future. Centrally disposed (Figures 1 and 2) and affixed to the front panel portion of the transverse support strap 71b is a hand strap 71a, each end of which incorporates an adjustment means 72, e.g., slider element, functionally coupled to a transverse adjustment strap 25b originating from the corresponding seam between the back panel 103 and side panel 104 of the main body 105 of the backpack 100.

In a preferred embodiment, a longitudinal support strap 70b originating from and affixed to the upper portion of a side panel 104 of the main body 105, runs the length of the originating side panel 104, across the bottom panel 106, and back up the opposite side panel 104, terminating in the upper portion of the opposite side panel 104 of the main body 105. The longitadinal support strap 70b may be generally centrally disposed on each panel to which it is affixed. In some embodiments, the longitudinal support strap 70b may be disposed off-center. Integrally combined with and generally centrally disposed on each side panel section and bottom panel section of the longitudinal support strap 70b may be a hand strap 70a. The longitadinal support strap 70b may be affixed to the main body by, for example, sewing, bonding, adhering, snapping, or thermal welding, or the like, or any appropriate affixation method now known or known in the future. To accommodate the collapsing functionality of the back pack 100, a strap affixation gap 73 is created at the intersection between the longitudinal 70b and transverse 71b support straps, whereby, the transverse adjustment strap 25b may pass beneath and freely move about under the longitudinal support strap 70b. In some embodiments (Figure 3), the longitudinal support strap 70b may continue about the circumference of the main body 105, including across the top panel 99, and integrally combine a generally centrally disposed top hand strap 70c.

In some embodiments, a top hand strap 70c integrally combined with a top longitudinal support strap 70d is affixed to the upper front portion of the front panel 102 of the main body 105 of the backpack 100 (Figure 6), such that upon engaging a folding functionality and bilateral adjustment element combination sealing mechanism 22 folding down the open end of the main body 105, the top hand strap 70c results in a position on a created top panel of the main body 105 which is maintained via engagement of top longitudinal support strap 70d. In some embodiments, each end of the top longitudinal support strap 70d may terminate and couple with a longitudinal support strap adjustment means 70e, e.g., slider element, and an adjustment strap 70f anchored to the upper end of the side panel longitudinal support strap 70b. The top longitudinal support strap 70d is engaged via the adjustment strap 70f resulting in an effective folding functionality and adjustment element combination sealing mechanism 22 for the backpack 100. The free, opposite to anchor, end of the adjustment strap 70f may further comprise a containment means 69 for holding loose adjustment strap. For example, a containment means may comprise a loop of Velcro™ into which rolled loose strap may be inserted and contained, but is not limited to this specific containment means.

As depicted in Figure 5, optional one or more stabilizing plates 222 may be affixed to the lip of the opening to facilitate ease and stability of use in the engagement of the folding functionality and adjustment element combination sealing mechanism 22. The stabilizing plates may be constructed from, e.g., plastic, leather, or any other appropriate material sufficient to reinforce the closure as well as provide a sturdy, robust closure for the backpack 100.

The weight training backpack 100 of the present invention may further include one or more, adjustable, detachable shoulder straps 45 useful for either front or rearward facing mounting of the backpack 100 on a user. For purposes of illustration, two shoulder straps 45 are shown attached to and engaged with the backpack 100. Figure 3 shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the backpack 100 with two shoulder straps 45 each having a first end and a second end, each end coupled to the main body 105 via an attachment means 55 (55a, 55b), e.g., buckle element, at each of the top portion and bottom portion of the intersection of the back panel 103 and the side panel 104, respectively. In some embodiments, the shoulder straps 45 may be coupled to main body 105 via an attachment means 55 at the top portion and bottom portion of the back panel 103 or the side panel 104, or any combination thereof (not shown). In some embodiments (not shown) in which a top panel 99 and sealing mechanism 20 e.g., zipper, are employed the shoulder straps 45 may be coupled to the main body 105 at the seam between the top portion of the back panel 103 and the back portion of the top panel 99. In some embodiments, the shoulder straps 45 may be non-removable and coupled to the main body 105 by any suitable coupling methods, including, e.g., sewing, bonding, adhering, snapping, or thermal welding. Each shoulder strap 45 may further comprise an adjustment means 25, e.g., slider element and adjustment strap 25a as shown in Figure 3. In some embodiments, the shoulder straps 45 may be coupled directly to the main body 105 of the backpack 100 through an adjustment means (not shown). In some

embodiments, shoulder straps may be padded, or unpadded (not shown), or sheathed (not shown), or any other shoulder strap configuration available now or in the future in order to provide comfort for the user. The shoulder straps 45 comprise male mating means 55a disposed at each end of each shoulder strap 45, for coupling to female mating means 55b correspondingly disposed on the top portion and bottom portion of the back panel 103 of the main body 105 for receiving the male mating means 55a of the should straps 45 when they are fully engaged with the backpack 100. These mating means permit the shoulder straps to be detachably coupled to the main body 105. The male and female components may also be reversed, but it is necessary that the components be complementary to one another. The male mating means 55a and female mating means 55b of the shoulder straps 45 may comprise buckles, or the like.

Continuing with Figure 5, a rear perspective view of a preferred embodiment having an elegant and simple shoulder strap 45 coupling means to the backpack 100 is shown. An embodiment having two shoulder straps 45 each having a first end and a second end, each of the first end and second end terminating in a buckle element 200a, 200b respectively, is shown. The first end of each shoulder strap 45 is coupled to the main body 105 via insertion of the buckle element 200a through an affixation gap 211 in an upper shoulder strap attachment strap 210 affixed to the upper portion of the back panel 103. The first end of the shoulder strap 45 may be a tapered configuration terminating in a buckle element (not shown), may comprise a strap element 205 affixed to an upper portion of a shoulder strap element, the strap element 205 terminating in a buckle element 200a, or any other configuration facilitating coupling. The upper shoulder strap attachment strap 210 is shown in a horizontal orientation to the main pack 100 but may be oriented in any direction that facilitates its utility of the coupling function. In some embodiments, multiple shoulder strap attachment straps may be employed (not shown). The second end of the shoulder strap is coupled to the main body 105 via insertion through an affixation gap 216 in a lower shoulder strap attachment strap 215 affixed to the lower portion of the corresponding side panel 104. The lower shoulder strap attachment strap 215 is shown in a diagonal orientation to the side panel 104 of the main pack 100, but may be oriented in any direction that facilitates utility of the coupling function, or on the back panel 103 of the main pack 100. In some embodiments, the shoulder straps 45 may be coupled to main body 105 at the top portion and bottom portion of the back panel 103 or the top portion and bottom portion of the side panel 104, or any combination thereof (not shown). In some embodiments, the shoulder straps 45 may be non-removable and coupled to the main body 105 by any suitable coupling methods, including, e.g., sewing, bonding, adhering, snapping, or thermal welding, or the like. In some embodiments, each shoulder strap 45 may further comprise an adjustment means 25, e.g., slider element and adjustment strap 25a as shown in Figure 5, where the second end of the shoulder strap is functionally coupled to an adjustment means 25 rather than directly to the main body 105 of the backpack 100. In some

embodiments, shoulder straps may be padded, or unpadded (not shown), or sheathed (not shown), or any other shoulder strap configuration available now or in the future in order to provide comfort for the user.

Referring to Figures 3 and 5, a plurality of straps, shoulder 45 and waste 50, are shown interconnected to the main body 105 for securing the backpack 100 to a user. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the exact location of the shoulder straps 45 and waste strap 50 with respect to the back panel 103, side panel 104, top panel 99, bottom panel 106, and front panel 102 will depend upon the size and particular design consideration involved in the construction of the backpack 100. Many alternate embodiments of coupling means for shoulder straps 45 and/or waste straps 50 are possible, and may include, e.g., clip and ring configurations, and the elements may share a ring and/or clip (not shown).

Referring back to Figure 3, the backpack may further comprise an optional waste strap 50 removably coupled on each end thereof to the main body 105. The waste strap 50 may be coupled to the main body 105 via similar coupling means, i.e., strap and buckle engagement, depicted for shoulder strap coupling in Figure 5, or via male mating means 48a disposed at each end of the waste strap 50, for coupling to female mating means 48b correspondingly disposed on the bottom portion of the back panel 103 or side panel 104 of the main body 105 for receiving the male mating means 48a of the waste strap 50 sections when they are fully engage with the backpack 100. The male and female components may also be reversed, but it is necessary that the components be complementary to one another. The male mating means 48a and female mating means 48b of the waste strap 50 may comprise buckles or the like. The waste strap 50 may further comprise an adjustment means 26, for example a slider element, and an adjustment strap 26a. In some embodiments, the waste strap may be comprised of at least two generally identical strap halves, each have having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end the first strap half is coupled to the main pack 105 via the male mating means 48a, the second end of the first strap is coupled to the second end of the second strap half via a male:female mating coupling element 49a, 49b, and the first end of the second strap is coupled to the main pack 105 via the male mating means 48a. Either waste strap half or both may further comprise an adjustment means 26 and adjustment strap 26a. The waste strap 50 may be padded, or unpadded, e.g., nylon webbing (not shown), or sheathed (not shown).

Figure 4 shows an internal perspective view of the weight training backpack 100 of an embodiment of the present invention in relation to a top panel 99 and a sealing mechanism 20 through which the main compartment 95 may be reached. The embodiment shown is for illustration purposes only, as it will be appreciated that the internal components depicted may be incorporated into multiple embodiments having a variety of accesses or sealing

mechanisms.

Illustrated as disposed within the main compartment 95 is a sleeve 96 affixed to the interior surface of at least one panel of the main body 105, the sleeve having a body, a left, and a right side. The left and right side of the body of the at least one sleeve 96 may be affixed at each lateral edge of the back panel 103, side panel 104, or front panel 102 of the main body 105 or anywhere upon the interior surface of the at least one body. Also illustrated as disposed within the main compartment 95 is a pocket 97 affixed to the interior surface of at least one panel of the main body 105 or to a sleeve 96, the pocket having a body, including a left and right side and a bottom side. The at least one pocket 97 may be affixed on three sides to the front panel 102, back panel 103, or side panel 104, or alternatively, to a sleeve 96. In use, the one or more sleeves 96 may be used to stabilize the one or more weight bladders 90 or other weights inserted into the main compartment 95. A fastening means 91 may be used to secure the weight bladder 90. In use of a preferred embodiment, a plurality of weight bladders 90 may be placed into the main compartment 95 by being inserted through the open sealing mechanism 20, 22 and may be disposed therein with or without employing fastening means to secure them. The one or more weight bladders 90 may be detachably coupled to the internal wall of the main compartment 95 by corresponding at least one fastening means, or may be inserted into the one or more internal sleeves 96, or may sit loosely in the main compartment 95 without coupling. In use, after insertion of one or more weight bladders 90 the backpack may be used with or without mounting on the user, e.g., shoulder straps 45 and/or waist strap 50 may be disengaged and removed from the weight training backpack 100, in general, to prepare for weight training exercises, as opposed to resistance training. The internal aspects of the backpack 100 are illustrated for ease of understanding in an embodiment having a top panel 99 and zipper sealing mechanism 20. It will be appreciated that the internal aspects of the weight training backpack 100 are not substantively altered based on changed aspects, e.g., sealing mechanisms 20, 22, including the substitution between sealing mechanisms as described herein and depicted in the figures.

The one or more internal sleeves 96 may be made of fabric, mesh, quilted or padded textile, or any appropriate material. The one or more internal sleeves 96 may be affixed onto an interior surface of the front 102, side 104, or back 103 panels of the main compartment 95. Each sleeve 96 is comprised of a body having a top opening, a right and left side end, and a bottom opening, such that an article, e.g., a weight bladder 90, may be inserted through the top opening, under the body, and partially out of the bottom opening to be centrally disposed and secured thereunder. It will be appreciated that a plurality of sleeves 96 may be affixed in series or on alternate internal panel surfaces of the main compartment 95.

The one or more internal pockets 97 may be made of fabric, mesh, quilted or padded textile, or any appropriate material. The one or more pockets 97 may be affixed onto an interior surface of the front 102, side 104, or back 103 panels of the main compartment 95, or alternatively, the one or more internal pockets 97 may be affixed directly to the one or more internal sleeves 96. Each pocket 97 is comprised of a body having a top opening, an affixed right and left side, and an enclosed bottom side. The pocket 97 may further comprise a sealing mechanism coupled to the top opening (not shown). A plurality of pockets 97 may be affixed in the main compartment 95 in a series or on any of each of the internal panel surfaces.

The back panel 103 may further comprise padding (not shown) constructed from, for example, a thin layer of foam coupled to or incorporated with the back panel 103. Padding may provide body and support to the backpack 100, or may provide comfort to a user when employing removably coupled shoulder straps 45 or waste strap 50. Alternatively, thicker and/or stiffer elements may be incorporated into the back panel 103 to achieve these and other aspects. The preceding detailed description has related but a few of many possible ways of configuring the weight training backpack of the instant invention comprising at least one shoulder strap, at least one support strap, a plurality of hand straps, optional internal sleeves, optional waist belt, and optional internal and/or external pockets, useful for weight training. Infinite variations of the foregoing backpack are possible, e.g., simply by moving hand straps or adding additional internal or external pockets or sleeves, swapping sealing mechanisms, etc., and consequently would violate the spirit of this invention. The invention may be used either alone or in combination with other weight training devices and/or conveniences. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the disclosed articles of manufacture and methods of use thereof of the present invention can be readily incorporate into one of the established formats for production of backpacks and the like that are well known in the art. The invention has been described in detail for the purposes of clarity and understanding. One skilled in the art could make any number of embodiments and/or adjustments thereto based on elements such as size, construction material, weight, method of use, etc., without undue experimentation. It will be appreciated that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the invention. Accordingly it is intended that all such alteration, variations, and modification are within the scope of the present invention.