Multi Purpose Exercise Apparatus

Abstract

The disclosed invention is an exercise device being capable of providing aerobic exercise and abdominal muscle conditioning. The device is comprised of an upper frame and a lower frame. The upper frame includes a seat back which supports the upper portion of the torso of a user. The lower frame includes a pelvis support and a bicycle pedaling mechanism. The preferred embodiment includes a linkage system that connects the upper frame to the lower frame. This linkage is capable of providing a translating center of rotation when the upper frame rotates with respect to the lower frame. This is done to follow the body's translating center of rotation during trunk flexion. An alternative to the preferred embodiment includes a arcuate roller attached to the upper frame.

1 . An abdominal exercise device which receives a user in a substantially supine position, the device comprising: an upper frame adapted for support of the upper torso of the user; a lower frame adapted to support a portion of the lower torso of the user; an first link with a head end pivotally connected to said upper frame and a foot end pivotally connected to said lower frame; and a second link with a head end pivotally connected to said upper frame above said head end of said first link and a foot end pivotally connected to said lower frame below said foot end of said first link, whereby movement of said upper frame toward said lower frame as guided by said first link and said second link results in a translating rotation of said upper frame.