Rowing machine suspension device

Abstract

A support lift for a physically disabled user, without additional assistance from another person, to access and use a rowing a machine is provided. The support lift may include a support line and a handle mounted above the seat of the rowing machine. Therefore, the user may grasp the handle and lower onto the seat of the rowing machine without assistance.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An exercise support apparatus comprising:
 a rowing machine comprising a rowing machine base having a front end and a rear end, a flywheel comprising a pulley secured at the front end, and a seat attached to the base in between the flywheel and the rear end;   a frame; and   a handle hanging from the frame by a support line, wherein the handle is disposed in between the front end and the rear end of the rowing machine above the seat.   
     
     
         2 . (canceled) 
     
     
         3 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the frame comprises:
 a frame base configured to support the frame in an upright position when resting on a surface;   a vertical support post substantially perpendicular to and extending from the frame base; and   a horizontal support arm substantially perpendicular to and extending from the vertical support post over the rowing machine base.   
     
     
         4 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 3 , wherein the support line runs along the vertical support post and the horizontal support arm and is positioned over the seat. 
     
     
         5 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 3 , further comprising an electrical motor configured to lower and raise the support line relative to the seat. 
     
     
         6 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 5 , further comprising control buttons on the handle and operatively connected to the electrical motor. 
     
     
         7 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 5 , further comprising a plurality of pulleys mounted along the frame, wherein the support line runs through the plurality of pulleys. 
     
     
         8 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 3 , wherein the horizontal support arm is pivotally connected to the vertical support post by a pivoting locking assembly. 
     
     
         9 . The exercise support apparatus of  claim 3 , wherein the frame base comprises a first arm and a second arm formed to fixedly secure the front end of the rowing machine in between. 
     
     
         10 .- 15 . (canceled)