Stepping and Stabilizing Structure

Abstract

A novel form of stepping structure designed to provide a multi-functional platform supporting user workout in various ways, The platform can be laid on the ground in straight manner for stepping exercise and can be used in a standing position for balancing support and hand/arms exercises.

Claims

1: An adjustable stepping structure for aerobics and cardio exercises, comprising: (a) a platform section having a top stepping surface for receiving thereon the feet of the participant and a shaped underside surface opposite said stepping surface; and (b) means for elevating said platform can be used vertically to support variety of exercises and balancing fitness activities.

2. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said platform section is rectangular;

3. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said platform has equal dimensions;

4. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said platform has a substantially flat top stepping surface for receiving thereon the feet of the participant;

5. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said platform section having substantially flat sides for receiving thereon the hand of the participant to be used as a stabilizer.

6. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said platform section is contoured about its periphery so it is flush and wherein said top stepping surface includes means for preventing slippage of the feet of the participant;

7. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said platform sections edges are beveled one half inch to reduce the square edges; and;

8. A stepping structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said platform includes a skid-resistant bottom surface section.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts that include the claimed invention, and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a front view of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a view of a participant being supported with the platform stood up on end.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a view of a participant doing a cardio exercise stepping up.

[0030] The apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0031] The apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.

[0033] Referring to the FIGS. 1-3 of the drawings, the numeral 1 denotes generally the first embodiment of the stepping structure which comprises a platform, rectangular in shape and includes a top, stepping surface 2. The surface 2 preferably a ¼″ thick non-slip material thereon. The dimensions of a typical platform are 36″×16″×5″.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 4 of the drawings it demonstrates how the participant will use the platform as a stabilizer by standing the platform on end.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 5 of the drawings it demonstrates how the participant will use the platform to step up and down by laying the platform on the ground.

[0036] The platform section is generally rectangular in shape with a top, stepping surface having a non-slip, textured coating thereon.

[0037] The above-described support elements 1 and the structural means employed to allow them to be stackable in vertical alignment.

[0038] The structures 1 is used to elevate the heart rate of the participant. By using various elements in conjunction with an instructor or video cassette, the participant achieves a high intensity, low impact workout within their target heart range.

[0039] While a specific embodiment has been shown and described, many variations are possible. With time, additional features may be employed. The particular shape or configuration of the platform or the interior configuration may be changed to suit the system or equipment with which it is used.

[0040] Having described the invention in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from its spirit. Therefore, it is not intended that the scope of the invention be limited to the specific embodiment illustrated and described. Rather, it is intended that the scope of this invention be determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0041] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.