A training apparatus for the simulation of rowing training includes a rolling seat to be moved linearly back and forth on a guide on a frame. Two handles which can be rotated independently of one another are mounted on an oarlock shaft. The oarlock shafts are connected to a drive mechanism in a force-flow connection. Upon introduction of force to the handles, power is output to a braking device via a drive mechanism, which has a freewheel between the oarlock shafts and the braking device. Upon actuation of the handles in a first direction about the axis of the respective rowlock shafts, power is transmitted to the braking device, and, upon actuation of the handles in the opposite direction the handles return without power being transmitted to the braking device.

An exercise machine is disclosed. The exercise machine comprises a pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a torque controller coupled to the pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a high resolution encoder coupled to the pancake motor.

An exercise apparatus includes a linear arm portion having an elongate arm member with proximal and distal ends and an elongate support member having proximal and distal ends. The arm member can be slidably mounted to the support member by a sliding joint positioned at the distal end of the support member. The arm member can be movable along a first axis between retracted and extended positions. The sliding joint can include first and second bearing assemblies which are spaced apart a sufficient distance from each other for constraining portions of the arm member within the sliding joint. The proximal end of the arm member that overlaps with the support member outside of the sliding joint when in retracted positions can be capable of some unconstrained lateral movement relative to the first axis. A linear arm brake assembly can be coupled to the arm member for resisting linear motion of the arm member. A torso portion can be included to which the linear arm portion is rotatably mounted about a second axis by rotary shoulder joint. The linear arm portion can be configured, and the rotary shoulder joint can be positioned along the length of the support member at a location that substantially balances the linear arm portion about the rotary shoulder joint at least when the arm member is in the retracted position.

An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support movably mounted relative to the main frame for movement between a start position and an end position during an exercise. At least one user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the main frame for engagement and actuation by a user during an exercise, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support. A lifting arm is movably mounted relative to the main frame and associated with at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage so as to move during an exercise. A load associated with the lifting arm provides exercise resistance.

An exercise machine is disclosed. The exercise machine comprises a pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a torque controller coupled to the pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a high resolution encoder coupled to the pancake motor.

A drag gain structure for the gravity wheel of fitness equipment includes an eccentric driving member disposed on the first side of the gravity wheel, which includes inner and outer side plate sections, and an interconnecting piece. The interconnecting piece is rotationally coupled to at least one of the plate sections. One end of outer side plate section is fitted over and fixed to the shaft, and one end of inner side plate section is connected to an eccentric position of gravity wheel through the first bias joint pin. A bearing pedestal is disposed on the second side of the gravity wheel, including a bearing screwed on the shaft, a pedestal shell fitted over the bearing and a radial protruding plate on the periphery of pedestal shell. The protruding end of the radial protruding plate is connected to an eccentric position of gravity wheel through the second bias joint pin.

Provided are apparatuses for augmenting human speed, human-driven compliant mechanisms, artificial limbs to augment human movement, and the like. The apparatuses can include variable stiffness mechanisms including springs that can be configured to selectively store and subsequently release energy generated by human movement. The apparatuses can selectively release the captured energy supplied by the human to provide force and power output beyond the physical capability of the human.

A modular exercise apparatus comprising a frame, a common drivetrain supported by the frame and including a common axle, a plurality of input receivers coupled to the common axle, and a resistance member operably coupled to the common axle and operable to provide resistance against rotation of the common axle, a first exercise attachment including a first drive member operably coupled to a first input receiver of the plurality of input receivers of the common drivetrain, and a second exercise attachment including a second drive member operably coupled to a second input receiver of the plurality of input receivers of the common drivetrain.

An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support movably mounted relative to the main frame for movement between a start position and an end position during an exercise. At least one user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the main frame for engagement and actuation by a user during an exercise, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support. A lifting arm is movably mounted relative to the main frame and associated with at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage so as to move during an exercise. A load associated with the lifting arm provides exercise resistance.

A cordless treadmill including a frame, a belt system, and a drop-in cartridge is disclosed. The cartridge includes a plurality of staggered rollers configured to provide tactile feedback to the user. The frame is adapted to receive the belt system and the cartridge as they are lowered into the frame, and the frame is adapted to place the belt of the belt system into tension as the belt system is lowered into the frame. An integrated flywheel generator system provides smooth operation of the treadmill and generates electricity to power additional systems.