A variable resistance exercise device is provided that comprises a pair of arm bands and a handle tube that has a longitudinal interior bore. The tube has first and second ends and includes a solid metal center shaft fitted through the interior bore thereby exposing respective first and second end portions of the shaft at the respective first and second ends of the tube. The first and second band arm of the pair of bands arms are respectively fitted onto the first and second ends of the shaft. In some instances, the device is part of a kit that includes a base having a bottom face, where the bottom face includes a groove, and one or more elastic bands, each such band configured to removably couple the base to the exercise bar by fitting the into the groove of the base and through the first and second arm bands.

An exercise machine resistance selection system for efficiently and easily adjusting a resistance force applied against movement of a carriage in at least one direction. An exercise machine includes a frame having at least one rail and a carriage movably connected to the at least one rail. A biasing member is selectively and removably connected to the carriage by a first catch member, with the first catch member being adjustable between an engaged position in which the first catch member is adapted to engage with the biasing member to impart a resistance force against movement of the carriage and a disengaged position in which the first catch member is adapted to release biasing member. A first retaining member is adapted to retain the biasing member in place below the carriage when the biasing member is released from the first catch member.

A volleyball training apparatus has a laterally extending arm supported on a riser. A resilient member such as a spring is operably connected within the arm. The resilient member is connected to a flexible connector, such as a cable, that is connected to a volleyball. A series of spacers retains the volleyball away from the rigid arm. The height of the arm may be adjustable to locate the volleyball at a desired height. After a user strikes the volleyball, the volleyball is displaced from its original static position, but quickly is snapped back into the static position by the resilient member pulling the volleyball toward the arm against the spacers.

A system and method of using two exercise machines for performing a wide range of exercise movements that utilize both of the exercise machines in concert. The system and method of using two exercise machines generally includes first exercise machine and a second exercise machine which are used in concert to perform a wide range of exercise movements. The first exercise machine may include a track, a carriage movably connected to the track, and an end platform. The second exercise machine may include its own separate track, a carriage movably connected to the track, and an end platform. The exercise machines may be positioned side-to-side in parallel orientation such that an exerciser may perform various exercise moves by positioning different limbs on the respective carriages, end platforms, and/or tracks of the exercise machines, in addition to the surface underlying the exercise machines.

A lightweight, portable leg strengthening apparatus includes a footplate and calf support which form a leg rest, a top a friction free sliding element running longitudinally along and supported on a rectangular base. The leg rest is hinged at its attachment to the sliding element to allow a longitudinal tilting movement. The leg rest has adjustability at the hinge point at the ankle to enable alterations in the foot position. The apparatus uses resistance material/rubber cords or springs attached via a plate to a steel cable, travelling via an aperture in the end of the device to the back of the sliding element a top the body of the device to create tension as the leg rest a top the sliding element is moved longitudinally along the body of the device. Resistance can be varied and progressed by using different numbers of resistance cords/springs.

An arm-training device, and methods of making and using such an arm-training device, whereby the arm-training device includes a flexible elongate member having an elastic length disposed between opposing first and second ends; a first loop formed proximate the first end; a second loop formed proximate the second end; a first slide coupled to the first loop, the first slide movable along the length of the elongate member; and a second slide coupled to the second loop, the second slide movable along the length of the elongate member.

A rail system for an exercise machine which may be efficiently manufactured with different dimensions to suit different exercisers and exercise spaces. An exemplary embodiment includes a first rail, a second rail, a carriage movably connected to the first and second rails, at least one biasing member or elongated member adapted to be directly or indirectly connected to the carriage, and one or more spacers extending between the first and second rails. A lower member is connected between the rails beneath the spacers so as to enclose the space between the rails. The lower member includes a plurality of dividers defining channels in which elongated members or biasing members may extend. The spacers, rails, and lower member form a monorail configuration. The effective width of the monorail may be easily adjusted by simply using spacers having different widths, thus easing the manufacture of such exercise machines having different sizes.

A vertically oriented fitness apparatus utilizes a combination of upper and lower assemblies resistant to vertical motion when the user pushes and pulls against crossbar members of the assemblies vertically. In alternate embodiments of the apparatus, resistance is provided by a dual action dashpot such as an adjustable bidirectional hydraulic damping cylinder which may be used in combination with spring resistance elements. The user is thus able to perform strength training and fitness conditioning exercises for both upper and lower extremities, and their core simultaneously while using the apparatus.

The present disclosure relates to a device or apparatus for use in exercising and physical therapy. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a sliding exercise device and system useful for exercising multiple areas of the body. The present device is particularly useful for targeting the hips, thighs, core, upper body and associated muscles for strengthening and/or rehabilitation. The device can used by individuals seeking strength and balance training but is also useful for rehabilitation. The present device is also portable, making it useful for use at a home and/or at a gym or rehabilitation facility.

An exercise machine support system for providing increased versatility including inclination or declination of an exercise surface, a reduction in the overall length and width of the exercise machine, and an enhanced user interface which reduces the risk of injury. The exercise machine support system generally includes a cantilevered exercise machine which is adapted to have a variable angle of incline or decline with respect to a horizontal ground surface. The exercise machine will generally include a base and a support which extends between the base and the exercise machine. The upper end of the support is connected to the exercise machine by a first pivot such that the exercise machine pivots about the support. An adjustment device may be utilized to pivot the exercise machine and thus adjust its angle of incline. Various types of adjustment devices are disclosed, including an actuator, ratchet-and-pawl, gears, and cam.