Multiple use exercise machine

An exercise machine operable in a first mode for simulating an activity such as skiing or rowing involving reciprocating linear motion, and operable in a second mode for simulating a stair climbing activity, said machine comprising:

• a frame;
• a flywheel operatively connected to the frame for rotation relative to the frame about a flywheel axis;
• first and second stepping members operatively connected to the frame for movement relative to the frame between raised and lowered positions, each stepping member having a stepping surface positioned and configured to be stepped upon by a user;
• a stair-climbing drive mechanism operatively connected to the stepping members and operatively connected to the flywheel in a manner to cause the flywheel to rotate about the flywheel axis upon movement of the stepping members from their raised positions to their lowered position;
• a linearly moveable member mounted on the frame for linear reciprocating movement along a longitudinal axis between forward and rearward positions;
• and
• a skier drive mechanism operatively connected to the linearly moveable member and operatively connected to the flywheel in a manner to cause the flywheel to rotate about the flywheel axis upon movement of the linearly moveable member between its forward and rearward positions in at least one direction.

An exercise machine operable in a first mode for simulating an activity such as skiing or rowing involving reciprocating linear motion, and operable in a second mode for simulating a cycling activity, said machine comprising:

• a frame;
• a flywheel operatively connected to the frame for rotation relative to the frame about a flywheel axis;
• a linearly moveable member mounted on the frame for linear reciprocating movement along a longitudinal axis between forward and rearward positions;
• a skier drive mechanism operatively connected to the linearly moveable member and operatively connected to the flywheel in a manner to cause the flywheel to rotate about the flywheel axis upon movement of the linearly moveable member between its forward and rearward positions in at least one direction;
• first and second cranks each operatively connected to the frame for motion in a circle relative to the frame;
• and
• a cycling drive mechanism operatively connected to the cranks and operatively connected to the flywheel in a manner to cause the flywheel to rotate about the flywheel axis upon circular movement of the cranks relative to the frame.