Open trap-camber bar with self-bracing removable handles

A kit for useful in forming an exercise device, the kit comprising:

• (a) a substantially U-shaped bar comprising:
• a centrally-disposed portion;
• two end portions;
• an interface welded to each of the two end portions;
• and
• a leg secured to each interface and extending away from the substantially U-shaped bar;
• and;
• a pair of tapered projections secured to each leg;
• (b) two plate-support posts, each comprising:
• a first end;
• a second end;
• a collar disposed between the first end and second end;
• and
• a flange disposed between the collar and second end, wherein each second end defines a threaded bar;
• and
• (c) a handle unit configured to be removably secured to each interface, wherein each handle unit comprises:
• a base defining a pair of washer receivers and a screw opening disposed between the pair of washer receivers;
• two flanges extending substantially orthogonally from the base;
• a handle spanning the flanges;
• and
• a screw configured to pass through the screw opening and to be removably secured in the threaded bore, wherein when the screw is removably secured in the threaded bore, the pair of tapered projections projects into the pair of receivers, and the base and the interface define a gap therebetween.

A method of manufacturing a plate-support post for an exercise device, the method comprising:

• providing a plate-support post defining an interior bore;
• welding a plate collar to the plate-support post;
• welding a flange to the plate-support post;
• forming a hole through the plate-support post substantially orthogonal to the interior bore;
• providing an insert defining a threaded bore;
• forming a hole through the insert substantially orthogonal to the threaded bore;
• inserting the insert into the interior bore;
• aligning the hole through the plate-support post with the hole through the insert;
• inserting a dowel into the aligned holes to at least partially secure the plate-support post to the insert;
• and
• welding the insert to the plate-support post after inserting the dowel.