Elliptical exercise methods and apparatus
OwnerKenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Mareshinventors
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Abstract
An exercise apparatus has a linkage assembly which links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical movement of a foot supporting member. The linkage assembly includes a first link having a first end rotatably connected to a first rocker link, an intermediate portion rotatably connected to the crank, and a second end rotatably connected to a rearward end of the foot supporting member. An opposite, forward end of the foot supporting member is rotatably connected to a second rocker link. An upper distal portion of the second rocker link is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the foot supporting member.
Claims20
An exercise apparatus, comprising:
- a frame designed to rest upon a floor surface;
- a crank rotatably mounted on said frame, thereby defining a first axis;
- a first link having an intermediate portion, a first distal portion, and a second, opposite distal portion, wherein said intermediate portion is rotatably connected to said crank at a point radially displaced from said first axis, thereby defining a second axis, and said first distal portion is constrained to move in reciprocating fashion relative to said frame;
- a second link having a rearward portion rotatably connected to said opposite distal portion of said first link, an intermediate portion sized and configured to support a person's foot, and a forward portion constrained to move in reciprocating fashion relative to said frame;
- and
- a resistance device operable to resist rotation of said crank relative to said frame.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.