Foldable low-profile abdominal exercise machine

An exercise apparatus with a storage mode and an exercise mode for use on a base surface by a user comprising:

• a frame for supporting a seat above the base surface comprising:
• a front leg;
• an engaging member pivotally connected to the frame comprising an engaging portion;
• and
• a rear leg that is pivotally attached to the front leg such that the rear leg extends from the front leg at an angle comprising a receiving portion disposed to receive the engaging portion;
• a moveable backrest comprising:
• a resilient spine member with a first end connected to the frame and a second end that is freely moveable;
• at least one pad capturing the resilient spine member, wherein one of the at least one pads is attached to the frame;
• and
• a first flexible member disposed adjacent to the resilient spine member and captured by the backrest such that the first flexible member provides resistance to the user's movements, wherein said backrest is disposed to provide support to the user's back and neck during movement of the backrest.

An exercise apparatus with a storage mode and an exercise mode for use on a base surface by a user comprising:

• a frame for supporting a seat above the base surface comprising:
• a front leg;
• an engaging member pivotally connected to the front leg comprising an engaging portion;
• and
• a rear leg that is pivotally attached to the front leg by a pin joint such that the rear leg extends from the front leg at an angle in the range of about 100 degrees to about 110 degrees comprising a receiving portion disposed to receive the engaging portion;
• a moveable backrest comprising:
• a resilient spine member;
• a first end connected to the frame;
• a second end that is freely moveable;
• at least one elongate flexible member comprising flexible material to provide resistance to the movement of the user;
• and
• wherein said backrest is disposed to provide support to the user's back and neck during movement of the backrest;
• at least one pad capturing the resilient spine member and the at least one elongate flexible member, wherein one of the at least one pads is attached to the front leg;
• and a low profile handle that is attached to the second end of the backrest.