WO2016079542A1

WO2016079542A1 - Exercise system and method of use thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2016079542A1
Application number: PCT/GB2015/053553
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sarah LAMBLEY; Jennifer GARSIDE
Original assignee: FIT FOR KEEPS Ltd
Current assignee: FIT FOR KEEPS Ltd
Priority date: 2014-11-21
Filing date: 2015-11-20
Publication date: 2016-05-26
Anticipated expiration: 2017-05-21
Also published as: GB2548269A; GB201708039D0; GB2548269B

Abstract

An exercise system including a first apparatus which includes one or more platform portions and a storage portion located substantially underneath the same. At least part of the storage portion is removable from underneath the one or more platform portions and at least part of the first apparatus is suitable for use as an item of furniture. Said first apparatus further includes one or more attachment means for the attachment of second and/or further exercise apparatus to the first apparatus.

Description

Exercise System and Method of Use Thereof

The present invention relates to an exercise system for domestic use.

Although the following description refers to an exercise system and associated parts for domestic use the person skilled in the art will appreciate that all or at least part of the current invention could also be used in commercial gyms and/ or the like.

The purchase and use of fitness and exercise equipment for home use is a growing trend. Often this equipment is bought with the best of intentions and undergoes a period of intensive use just after purchase. However, use in many cases gradually falls and the equipment has to be disposed of or stored.

Space and storage is a problem with many houses struggling to incorporate bulky gym equipment. In addition, many home 'multi-gyms' are noisy when used and expensive.

It is recognised that motivation is a barrier to regular exercise and one of the problems with conventional fitness and exercise apparatus, such as treadmills, multi-gyms, cross-trainers and/or the like is that they are not aesthetically pleasing and/ or exciting to use. As such, motivation to use the same dips very quickly.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide a fitness or exercise system that addresses the abovementioned problems.

It is a further aim of the present system to provide a method of using an exercise system that addresses the abovementioned problems.

It is a yet further aim to provide a method of manufacture and/ or assembly of an exercise system that addresses the abovementioned problems. In a first aspect of the invention there is provided an exercise system, said system including at least a first apparatus which includes one or more platform portions and a storage portion located substantially underneath the same, at least part of the storage portion removable from underneath the one or more platform portions wherein at least part of the first apparatus is suitable for use as an item of furniture and said first apparatus further includes one or more attachment means for the attachment of second and/or further exercise apparatus to the first apparatus.

Typically the one or more platform portions provide a surface, stage, area and/or the like on which the user can exercise. Further typically the platform area provides an area raised or a spaced distance from the ground onto which the user can step to exercise.

In one embodiment the one or more platform portions are raised from the ground on one or more legs and/ or side walls.

In one embodiment the storage portion is located substantially under a first platform when in at least a first storage condition.

In one embodiment at least the first apparatus includes one or more rib portions. Typically the rib portions extend from substantially adjacent to the platform portion in a substantially vertical direction. Further typically the rib portions run substantially parallel to the one or more legs.

In one embodiment the rib portions form one or more legs of the first apparatus.

Typically the attachment means includes any one or any combination of bars, rods, ribs, poles and or the like. Further typically the attachment means are integrally formed with the first platform portion and/ or the storage portion. In one embodiment the attachment means extend substantially along a horizontal axis. Typically the attachment means are located on and/ or between the legs and/ or rib portions of the first platform portion.

Preferably the attachment means provide one or more locations to which second or further exercise apparatus can be detachably attached. In one embodiment the second exercise apparatus includes resistance bands and/ or the like.

In one embodiment one or more rib portions and/ or legs are positioned to function as guides for the resistance bands. Typically the resistance bands pass through one or more apertures and/or channels at least partially defined by one or more rib portions, legs and/ or the platform portion.

In one embodiment one or more rib portions and/ or legs substantially form one or more side walls of at least the first apparatus.

Typically the part of the first apparatus that functions as an item of furniture can be used as any one or any combination of stool, foot stool, ottoman, dressing table stool, side table and/ or the like.

In one embodiment the storage portion is movable between a first storage condition and at least a second in-use condition. Typically the storage portion stores or otherwise contains second and/ or further exercise apparatuses when in at least the first storage condition.

In one embodiment the first apparatus includes first and second platform portions. Typically the first and/ or second platform portions include one or more slip resistant portions or non-slip materials or surfaces.

In one embodiment at least part of the storage portion forms a second platform portion in at least the second in-use condition. Typically the second and/or further exercise apparatuses can be accessed when the storage portion is in the second in-use condition and/or moving towards the second in-use condition.

Typically the second platform portion is located lower than the first platform portion. Further typically the first platform portion is positioned higher than the second in order to provide a more challenging step and/or the like for the user.

In one embodiment the storage portion is defined by a plurality of walls. Typically the storage portion includes a base. Further typically the walls depend upwardly from the base thereby defining a storage compartment, recess and/ or the like.

In a preferred embodiment the storage portion is a draw, drawer, box and/or the like. Typically, the storage portion can be inverted or turned upside down to provide the second platform portion. Thus the second platform portion is provided by the base of the storage portion or drawer.

In one embodiment the top of the walls defining the storage portion include one or more non-slip portions and/or slip resistant materials. Typically the non-slip portions form one or more feet when the storage portion is in the second in use condition.

In one embodiment the storage portion includes one or more attachment means and/ or handles.

In one embodiment the first platform portion includes a plurality of legs. Typically the first platform portion includes a substantially horizontal surface. Further typically the horizontal surface is located a spaced distance from the ground by one or more walls and/ or legs.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes a cushion portion. Typically the cushion portion is detachably attached to at least the first platform portion. Further typically the cushion portion can be detached or removed to provide a mat or the like for floor exercises. In one embodiment the cushion portion provides a fabric housing for one or more mats. Typically the cushion is formed by storing an exercise mat inside a cover.

In one embodiment the cushion portion is substantially trapezoidal in shape. Typically the cushion portion is substantially trapezoidal in vertical cross section. Further typically at least part of the cushion portion is formed or shaped to provide support for the small of a user's back. As such a user's back is supported when performing abdominal exercises typically on the floor.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes a cover for the cushion portion. Typically the cushion is upholstered and the removable cover prevents the same from becoming dirty in use. Further typically the cover can be zipped, buttoned or Velcro™ used to attach the same over the top of the cushion upholstery when using it for exercise to protect the same.

In one embodiment the platform portion includes a recess or sunken surface. Typically the recess prevents the cushion portion from sliding or falling off when being used as furniture.

In one embodiment of the invention the system includes a further exercise apparatus. Typically the further exercise apparatus includes a housing. Further typically at least part of the housing defines one or more compartments and/ or recesses for the location of one or more weight means therein in use.

In one embodiment the housing includes a cover or lid. Typically the weight means are enclosed inside the housing for use and/or storage. Further typically the further exercise apparatus is stored inside the storage portion of the first apparatus when in at least the first condition. Typically the weight means are weights or members of a specific predefined weight. Further typically the weight means are substantially cylindrical in shape.

In one embodiment the further exercise apparatus is substantially circular or oval in shape.

In one embodiment the further exercise apparatus housing includes one or more recesses and/or handles. Typically the recesses and/or handles provide an area or surface by which the apparatus can be gripped or handled.

Typically a user can position a desired or predetermined number of weights inside the housing such that the apparatus can be used for weight training.

In one embodiment the housing includes one or more apertures or holes. Typically an aperture or hole at least partly aligns with a compartment or recess. Further typically the user can eject or remove the weight means from the compartment or recess by pushing a finger or other object through the aperture.

Preferably the system is provided with one or more resistance bands, equipment housing and/ or weights. Typically said bands, housing and/ or weights are stored in the storage portion when not in use.

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided an exercise apparatus, said apparatus including a housing with one or more recesses or compartments defined within the same wherein said recesses or compartments receive one or more weight means in use.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using an exercise apparatus, said apparatus including one or more platform portions and a storage portion where at least part of the first apparatus is suitable for use as an item of furniture, said method including the step of attaching one or more second or further exercise apparatuses to do the same and/or using a platform portion as a step.

In a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using an exercise apparatus, said apparatus including a housing with one or more recesses or compartments defined within the same adapted to receive one or more weight means in use, said method including the step of inserting at least one weight means into the compartment or recess.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of assembly of an exercise system, said method including the step of inserting a storage portion under a platform portion.

In a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided an exercise system, said system including at least a first apparatus which includes one or more platform portions and a storage portion, wherein at least part of the first apparatus is suitable for use as an item of furniture.

In one embodiment the exercise system includes a cushion portion. Typically the cushion portion is square or rectangular when viewed in plan from above. Further typically one edge of the cushion portion is higher and/or thicker than the opposing edge such that the top surface of the cushion portion is not parallel or non-parallel with the ground.

In one embodiment at least part of the first apparatus is constructed from birch wood. Typically at least the legs and/ or rib portions are substantially formed from birch ply.

In one embodiment the legs and/ or rib portions are substantially planar articles. Typically the legs and/ or rib portions are located or positioned on substantially parallel vertical planes with one or more spaces therebetween. Further typically one or more attachment means extend between the spaces between the leg and/ or rib portions. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a removable and/ or detachable top surface. Typically the top surface allows the apparatus to be used as a side table, table, stool and/ or the like.

Specific embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the following figures, wherein:

Figures la and lb show perspective views of an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the inside of a storage member in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows examples of resistance bands and connectors ;

Figures 4a-4c show views of apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 5a and 5b show a perspective views of an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 6a-6d show a further apparatus in accordance with a second aspect of the invention;

Figures 7a and 7b show weights in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 8a-81 show examples of the apparatus in use in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and Figures 10a and 10b show detailed views of a cushion in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

The present invention is a product which is a beautiful piece of home fitness equipment. It allows the user to combine cardio, strength work and other popular techniques such as Pilates into a home routine which can fit around the user's lifestyle. The equipment can be used in at least two modes, a furniture mode and an exercise mode.

Figure 1 shows an example of such equipment 2 which has been designed to look and function as an item of furniture. The equipment comprises a raised platform or stand area 4 which is positioned on a number of legs 6. Ribs 7 extend down the side of the equipment running between and parallel to the legs. Thus the apparatus sides appear to be formed from a number of plates or slats.

A removable storage drawer 8 is located underneath the stand area 4 and provides a box for the storage of accessory equipment such as weights, resistance bands and/ or the like. Extending through or between adjacent legs 6 of the stand 4 is included a number or horizontally extending bars 10 to which the accessory equipment and in particular the resistance bands can be attached. The bars 10, legs 6 and ribs 7 form apertures, channels or guides through which the resistance bands can pass. Non-slip feet (not shown) are provided at the end of the legs to prevent the apparatus slipping on relatively smooth floors.

Figure 2 shows examples of the types of accessory equipment that can be stored inside the drawer 8, such as bands 12 with attachment portion 14. Figure 3 shows the types of attachment portions that can be used to clip or secure the bands 12 to the bars 10 in use. Other accessory equipment that can be stored includes skipping ropes, weights, Pilates balls, tri-fold mats and/ or the like. Typically it is only the bands and/ or the mats that attach to the equipment in use. Figures 4a and 4b show an example of the equipment 2 where the stand area 4 includes a mat or cushion 16 which can be removed and used for Pilates, yoga and/or the like. Figures 5a and 5b show the drawer portion 8 being removed from under the stand 4. Once removed, the drawer 8 can be turned upside down, as shown in figure 5b such that the base 18 of the drawer provides a second stand area 18. This stand or step is lower that the first stand area 4 and therefore appropriate exercises involving ^cstep-ups' can be made harder or easier as desired. The edge of the drawer opening also includes a number of rubberised or non-slip feet 20 so that the drawer does not slip or slide when being used as a step.

The present invention also provides a new weight apparatus 102, as shown in figures 6a-d, that may be provided with the equipment 2. The weight apparatus 102 comprises a lid portion 104 and a tray portion 106 with a number of compartments 108 defined therein. The compartments 108 are adapted to receive weights 110a, 110b as shown in figures 7a-7b, such that the weight of the apparatus, and thereby the intensity of the training can be predetermined and selected by the user. In this example different sizes and weights are provided, such as a 6 kg weight 110a and six 1 kg weights 110b. The tray 106 is provided with a number of apertures or holes 112 through to the compartments 108 such that the weights located therein can be pushed out. In this example the apparatus 102 is provided with a case 114.

Turning now to figures 8a-8f where a number of resistance exercises available to a user using the bespoke resistance bands is demonstrated such as lunge with resistance, seated lateral raises, glute kick back, single arm raises, thigh extensions, and seated row (on floor) respectively. Other exercises include, and are not limited to, step-ups, squats, pylo-jumps, tricep dips, leg tucks, press-ups, and seated crunches on the platform. The resistance bands are supplied at a specific predetermined length. When attached and crossed over underneath the stand area 4, as shown in figure 8j, upper body and arm extension workouts can be performed. Additionally with the bands 12 attached to one side of the equipment 2 and optionally passed under the same, rowing/thigh work exercises can be completed. The bands can be optionally attached to the top and bottom rails and passed under the apparatus to shorted/lengthen the bands in use as required and illustrated in figures 8h-8i. Figure 8k shows the drawer portion inverted and being used as a lower step. Figure 81 shows the cushion 16 being used for abdominal crunch exercises; the shape of the cushion being useful for extending or lengthening the abdominal muscles in use.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that the stand areas 4, 18 are of different height and are interchangeable to make certain exercises harder or easier. For example when performing squats, using the lower stand area 18 makes the exercise harder. When performing step-ups for example, using the higher stand area 4 will make the exercise harder.

Turning to figure 9 where a particular shaped cushion 16 of a particularly advantageous configuration is shown on top of the equipment 2. This cushion 16 acts as a support for the small of a user's back when doing abdominal exercises on the floor. In use the user simply lifts the cushion off the top of the equipment (to reveal the non-slip or slip resistant surface for platform work 4) and place it on the floor when doing core strength exercises.

In order to provide this functionality the cushion 16 has a curved or trapezoid shape. The front curvature 30 is shallower than the rear curvature 32 in order to provide improved support the lower back.

Figure 10a shows a close up view of the fabric cover 34 that includes a releasable or Velcro™ seam to access the inside of the cushion 16. Figure 10b shows an exploded view whereby the hard base 36 and profiled foam cushion inner 38 can clearly be seen. The person skilled in the art will appreciate that the cushion 16 could be enclosed in a non-releasable manner, such as the fabric cover being secured with staples or the like.

Claims

1. An exercise system, said system including a first apparatus which includes one or more platform portions and a storage portion located substantially underneath the same, at least part of the storage portion removable from underneath the one or more platform portions wherein at least part of the first apparatus is suitable for use as an item of furniture and said first apparatus further includes one or more attachment means for the attachment of second and/or further exercise apparatus to the first apparatus.

2. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the one or more platform portions provide a surface, stage, area and/ or the like on which the user can exercise.

3. An exercise system according to claim 2 wherein the one or more platform portions are raised from the ground on one or more legs and/ or side walls.

4. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the storage portion is located substantially under a first platform when in at least a first storage condition.

5. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein at least the first apparatus includes one or more rib portions.

6. An exercise system according to claim 5 wherein the rib portions extend from substantially adjacent to the platform portion in a substantially vertical direction and/ or in a vertical plane.

7. An exercise system according to claim 6 wherein the rib portions are located substantially parallel to the one or more legs.

8. An exercise system according to claim 6 wherein the rib portions form one or more legs of at least the first apparatus.

9. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the attachment means includes any one or any combination of bars, rods, ribs, poles and/ or the like.

10. An exercise system according to claim 9 wherein the attachment means are integrally formed with the first platform portion and/ or the storage portion.

11. An exercise system according to claim 9 wherein the attachment means extend substantially along a horizontal axis.

12. An exercise system according to claim 9 wherein the attachment means are located on and/ or between the legs and/ or rib portions of the first platform portion.

13. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the second exercise apparatus includes resistance bands and/ or the like.

14. An exercise system according to claims 5 wherein one or more rib portions and/ or legs are positioned to function as guides for the resistance bands.

15. An exercise system according to claim 14 wherein the resistance bands pass through one or more apertures and/or channels at least partially defined by one or more rib portions, legs and/ or the platform portion.

16. An exercise system according to claim 5 wherein one or more rib portions and/ or legs substantially form one or more side walls of at least the first apparatus.

17. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the first apparatus that functions as an item of furniture can be used as any one or any combination of stool, foot stool, ottoman, dressing table stool, side table and/ or the like.

18. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the storage portion is movable between a first storage condition and at least a second in-use condition.

19. An exercise system according to claim 18 wherein the storage portion stores or otherwise contains second and/or further exercise apparatuses when in at least the first storage condition.

20. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the first apparatus includes first and second platform portions.

21. An exercise system according to claim 20 wherein at least part of the storage portion forms a second platform portion in at least the second in- use condition.

22. An exercise system according to claim 19 wherein the second and/or further exercise apparatuses can be accessed when the storage portion is in the second in-use condition and/or moving towards the second in-use condition.

23. An exercise system according to claim 20 wherein the second platform portion is located lower than the first platform portion.

24. An exercise system according to claim 21 wherein the storage portion is defined by a plurality of walls and includes a base thereby defining a storage compartment, recess and/ or the like.

25. An exercise system according to claim 24 wherein the storage portion is a draw, drawer, box and/ or the like.

26. An exercise system according to claim 25 wherein the storage portion can be inverted or turned upside down to provide the second platform portion.

27. An exercise system according to claim 26 wherein the top of the walls defining the storage portion include one or more non-slip portions.

28. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the system includes a cushion portion.

29. An exercise system according to claim 28 wherein the cushion portion is detachably attached to at least the first platform portion.

30. An exercise system according to claim 28 wherein the cushion portion is substantially trapezoidal in vertical cross section.

31. An exercise system according to claim 1 wherein the system includes a further exercise apparatus including a housing at least part of which defines one or more compartments and/ or recesses for the location of one or more weight means therein in use.

32. An exercise system according to any preceding claim wherein the system is provided with one or more resistance bands, equipment housing and/ or weights.

33. A method of assembly of an exercise system according to claim 1, said method including the step of inserting at least part of a storage portion under a platform portion.