Dumbbell Retention Device

Abstract

A weight lifting apparatus is provided for converting traditional dumbbell weights into a kettlebell. The apparatus includes a support structure with a handle member, a pair of arm members that extend downward therefrom, a clamping mechanism, and a locking mechanism. Each arm member includes a clamping mechanism to receive a traditional dumbbell's transverse member. The clamping mechanism has a locking mechanism to safely and easily secure the dumbbell to the support structure thereby enabling the user to utilize the modified dumbbell to perform kettlebell exercises.

I claim: 
     
         1 ) A dumbbell retention device, comprising:
 a handle member having a first and second elongated arm member having a first end attached to a transverse member and a second free end, forming a substantially U-shaped handle;   a retention assembly secured to each handle member free end;   said retention assemblies comprising a locking mechanism and a clamping mechanism and adapted to secure to a dumbbell transverse member.   
     
     
         2 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said clamping mechanism comprises a non-rotatable clamping portion and a rotatable clamping portion connected by a clamp hinge. 
     
     
         3 ) The device of  claim 2 , wherein said clamp hinge has a maximum rotation angle. 
     
     
         4 ) The device of  claim 2 , wherein said non-rotatable clamping portion and said rotatable clamping portion further comprise inner surfaces having stabilizing cushions adhered thereto. 
     
     
         5 ) The device of  claim 2 , wherein:
 said non-rotatable clamping portion and said rotatable clamping portion have a half tubular extension and a half ring portion, wherein said half tubular members mate when said clamping mechanism is in a closed position;   each of said half ring portions is a hollow semicircular cylinder with an inner surface and outer surface;   said half ring portions being connected by a clamp hinge;   said inner surface of said clamp ring portions further comprise stabilizing cushions therealong.   
     
     
         6 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said locking mechanism comprises:
 a slidable locking member sleeve and a spring-loaded locking pin;   said locking member sleeve comprising a hollow sliding member with an inner surface and a locking pin through-hole, wherein said locking member can slide along said elongated arm member to secure over said clamping mechanism when in a closed position;   said spring-loaded locking pin attached through said clamping mechanism and engaging said locking pin through-hole on said slidable locking member sleeve when said slidable locking member sleeve is positioned over said clamping mechanism.   
     
     
         7 ) The device of  claim 6 , wherein said locking member sleeve further comprises a boss positioned within an L-shaped groove along said arm member. 
     
     
         8 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said handle member has a handle cushion.