Compact exercise apparatus

Abstract

A compact and portable exercise apparatus is disclosed and includes a housing having casters, and an adjustable resistance mechanism disposed within the housing. The adjustable resistance mechanism includes a variable friction mechanism, a linkage, and a tension adjustment device for selectively controlling the degree of resistance imparted by the variable friction mechanism.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A compact exercise apparatus including one or more of the novel features described in the above specifications and in the accompanying drawings. 
     
     
         2 . A compact exercise apparatus substantially as described in the above specifications and in the accompanying drawings. 
     
     
         3 . A portable apparatus including one or more of the novel features described in the above specifications and in the accompanying drawings. 
     
     
         4 . A portable apparatus substantially as described in the above specifications and in the accompanying drawings. 
     
     
         5 . A method of providing a variable friction mechanism wherein the adjustable resistance comprises a tension adjustment device. 
     
     
         6 . A method of providing a retractable linking device, further comprising a handle or hand grips detachably coupled to one end of the retractable linkage device. 
     
     
         7 . A compact exercise apparatus further comprising a plurality of casters or wheels coupled to a housing enabling mobilization of the housing. 
     
     
         8 . A compact exercise apparatus further comprising a housing of a plurality of walls forming an enclosure having an open interior, the plurality of walls comprises a front wall, a rear wall, a left side wall, a right side wall, a top wall, a bottom wall, and a sloped wall extending integrally between the front wall and top wall, and wherein the open interior forming a chamber for accommodating the variable friction mechanism, tension adjustment, retractable linkage device, casters or wheels, and foot straps. 
     
     
         9 . A method of enabling the user to exercise while seated by using the housing and retractable linkage device while having the ability to adjust the tension.