TORSO EXERCISE APPARATUS

Abstract

A Torso Exercise Apparatus that stabilizes the pelvic area to enhance effectiveness of upper body and torso motions when exercising with a means of resistance. An anterior pelvic apparatus comprising anterior pelvic pads and a posterior pelvic apparatus comprising posterior pelvic pads can be adjusted to reduce a compression distance therebetween and compress a pelvic area. Additional torso pads can be utilized to stabilize the upper body. The anterior and posterior pelvic apparatuses can be operably engaged with a rail that allows for optimization of a range of motion relative to the means of resistance.

Claims

1. A device, configured to stabilize a pelvis, comprising: an anterior pelvic assembly; and a posterior pelvic assembly comprising an operable attachment to the anterior pelvic assembly for adjusting a compression distance therebetween; such that, when the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly are adjusted, the compression distance therebetween stabilizes the pelvis.

2. A device, configured to stabilize a pelvis, comprising: an anterior pelvic assembly that comprises, at least one anterior pelvic pad operably connected to a posterior pelvic assembly to a front post, wherein the front post is supported by a front bracket; a posterior pelvic assembly that comprises, at least one posterior pelvic pad operably connected to a rear post, wherein the rear post is supported by a rear bracket; and an adjustable linkage that operably connects the front post to the rear post, such that a compression distance between the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly is adjustable with the adjustable linkage.

3. The device, according to claim 2, further comprising a height adjustment mechanism operably connected to the front post, for simultaneously adjusting the height of the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly.

4. The device, according to claim 2, further comprising a horizontal adjustment mechanism operably connected to the adjustable linkage, for adjusting the compression distance.

5. The device, according to claim 4, wherein the adjustable linkage comprises a linear actuator.

6. The device, according to claim 2, further comprising a rail, wherein the front bracket and the rear bracket are movably mounted on the rail.

7. The device according to claim 6, further comprising a range adjustment lever operably connected to the rail and to the anterior pelvic assembly, wherein the range adjustment lever is configured to adjust a range of motion.

8. The device, according to claim 7, wherein the rail and the range adjustment mechanism comprise a ratchet.

9. The device, according to claim 2, wherein the at least one anterior pelvic pad is supported on a support arm on the front post.

10. The device, according to claim 2, wherein the posterior pelvic assembly further comprises a posterior torso pad that extends above the posterior pelvic pad.

11. The device, according to claim 10, wherein the posterior torso pad comprises angled side supports.

12. The device, according to claim 11, wherein the angle between the angled side supports is between about 100 and about 170, between about 110 and about 160, between about 120 and about 150, between about 130 and about 140, between about 130, and about 145.

13. The device, according to claim 2, wherein the anterior pelvic assembly further comprises an anterior torso pad that extends above the at least one anterior pelvic pad.

14. A device, configured to stabilize a pelvis, comprising: an anterior pelvic assembly that comprises, at least one anterior pelvic pad operably connected to a front post, wherein the front post is supported by a front bracket; and a pelvic compression belt comprising at a first end fixedly attached to the at least one anterior pelvic pad and a second end that engages with a tightening mechanism.

15. A method for stabilizing a pelvic area during resistance exercise, the method comprising: obtaining a device, according to claim 2; standing between the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly; adjusting the compression distance between the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly to stabilize the pelvic area therebetween.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the adjustable linkage is operably connect to a horizontal adjustment mechanism and the method further comprises utilizing the horizontal adjustment mechanism to adjust the compression distance between the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the anterior pelvic assembly is operably connected to a height adjustment mechanism and the method further comprises utilizing the height adjustment mechanism to simultaneously adjust the heights of the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the anterior pelvic assembly and posterior pelvic assembly are movably mounted on a rail and the method further comprises moving the anterior pelvic assembly on the rail to simultaneously move the posterior pelvic assembly on the rail.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the anterior pelvic assembly is operably attached to a range adjustment mechanism and the method further comprises utilizing the range adjustment mechanism to simultaneously move the anterior pelvic assembly and the posterior pelvic assembly on the rail.

20. A method for stabilizing a pelvic area during resistance exercise, the method comprising: obtaining a device, according to claim 14; placing the pelvic area against the at least one anterior pelvic pad; wrapping the pelvic compression belt around the posterior pelvic area; engaging the second end of the pelvic compression belt with the tightening mechanism; and utilizing the tightening mechanism to tighten the pelvic compression belt to stabilize the pelvic area against the at least one anterior pelvic pad.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the device further comprises a height adjusting mechanism and the method further comprises adjusting the height of the at least one anterior pelvic pad with the height adjustment mechanism.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] In order that a more precise understanding of the above recited invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. The drawings presented herein may not be drawn to scale and any reference to dimensions in the drawings or the following description is specific to the embodiments disclosed. Any variations of these dimensions that will allow the subject invention to function for its intended purpose are considered to be within the scope of the subject invention.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a rear, left-side perspective view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus. As shown here, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly has been adjusted with a range of motion that permits maximum arm and torso extension, which can target muscles of the lower and upper back during exercise and/or rehabilitation.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a rea, left-side perspective view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus. As shown here, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly has been adjusted with a range of motion that permits a finished position of a standard rowing motion.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a rear, left-side perspective view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus in a fully open position of adjustment, to allow user access.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a rear, left-side perspective view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus displayed in the partially closed position of adjustment, such as during use.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a rear, left-side perspective view of the pad based pelvic compression apparatus displayed in a partially closed position of adjustment. The range adjustment lever is also shown pushed forward in an unlocked position, allowing the Anterior Pelvic Assembly and Posterior Pelvic Assembly to be moved fore or aft.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a rear, left-side perspective view of an embodiment of the Torso Exercise Apparatus with an adjustable posterior torso pad. This embodiment is also shown without the optional foot supports.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a left-side elevation view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus demonstrating pelvic compression between the one or more anterior pelvic pads and the one or more posterior pelvic pads.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a left-side elevation view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus utilized with a means of resistance for performing a pull-down, pullover, tricep press-down, abdominal curl exercise. The embodiment shown here is utilized with a posterior torso pad.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a left-side elevation view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus utilized with a means of resistance for performing an arm curl, row, and reverse fly exercise. The embodiment shown here is utilized with an anterior torso pad.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a left-side elevation view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus utilized with a means of resistance for performing a bench press and cable fly exercises. The embodiment shown here is utilized with a posterior torso pad adjusted to stabilize the torso, thoracic vertebrae, and cervical spine/neck.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a left-side elevation view of the Torso Exercise Apparatus utilized with a means of resistance for performing a standing overhead press exercise. The embodiment shown here utilizes a compression belt to stabilize the pelvic and buttock areas against the Anterior Pelvic Pads. An adjustable stand-alone torso pad is also shown.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a top side plan view of one embodiment of a torso pad. As shown here, there is an angle 4 between the side supports.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a torso pad that can provide neck and cervical spine support.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of an embodiment of a torso pad illustrating how the raised center curvature can provide support to the center of the torso.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a left-side elevation view of an embodiment of an occupied Torso Exercise Apparatus that includes a thigh pad attachment. As shown here, the Anterior and Posterior Pelvic Assemblies have been adjusted to allow contact with the thigh pad while supporting the pelvic area.

DETAILED DISCLOSURE

[0028] The subject invention relates generally to devices for performing torso exercises that incorporate the arms and neck while inhibiting motion of the pelvis or pelvic area. More specifically, the subject invention provides a direct pelvic compression apparatus that can be utilized with a means of resistance designed for performing exercises, and/or testing physical and mental capabilities of an upper body/torso, arms, neck, and head. Unlike prior art apparatuses that can allow the pelvis unrestricted movement, the embodiments of the subject invention restrict movement of the pelvis in a bio-mechanically sound and direct manner. Advantageously, the torso exercise apparatus can be user adjusted in multiple directions to optimize comfort and stability of the pelvic area. A further advantage is the ability to incrementally adjust height and distance between the components of the torso exercise apparatus to optimize the range of motion during an exercise. In other words, a torso exercise apparatus can be optimally adjusted during use, which can be more convenient than trying to optimize height and width between the Assemblies and the range of motion before use.

[0029] The subject invention is particularly useful when performing exercises utilizing weight stack machines. Weight stack machines typically utilize a series of pulleys, wheels, and levers to move a selected or customized stack of weights. While the subject application describes, and many of the terms herein relate to, a use for exercises with weight stack machines, the subject invention is not limited to such use. As the ordinary artisan can readily envision a torso exercise apparatus of the subject invention can be used with other means of resistance and can have other non-exercise related uses. It need not be limited solely to the performing exercises with a weight stack machine.

[0030] In the description that follows, a number of terms used are utilized related to the subject invention and the method of use thereof. In order to provide a clear and consistent understanding of the specification and claims, the following definitions are provided:

[0031] As used herein, and unless otherwise specifically stated, the terms operable communication, operable connection, operably connected, cooperatively engaged and grammatical variations thereof mean that the particular elements are connected in such a way that they cooperate to achieve their intended function or functions. The connection or engagement may be direct, or indirect, physical or remote.

[0032] There are terms used herein indicating relative direction or orientation, including but not limited to upper, lower, top, bottom, vertical, horizontal, outer, inner, front, back, and the like, are intended to facilitate description of the present invention by indicating relative orientation or direction in usual use, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way to such orientations or directions.

[0033] Further, reference is made throughout the application to fore and aft or the fore direction and the aft direction. As used herein, the fore or fore direction is that nearest or approaching a means of resistance. For example, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly is fore of the Posterior Pelvic Assembly. Conversely, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly is aft of the means of resistance and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly is aft of the Anterior Pelvic Assembly.

[0034] The transitional term comprising, which is synonymous with including, or containing, is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. By contrast, the transitional phrase consisting of excludes any element, step, component, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase consisting essentially of limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Use of the term comprising contemplates other embodiments that consist or consist essentially of the recited component(s).

[0035] Any reference in this specification to one embodiment, an embodiment, example embodiment, further embodiment, alternative embodiment, etc., is for literary convenience. The implication is that any particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with such an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearance of such phrases in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, any elements or limitations of any invention or embodiment thereof disclosed herein can be combined with any and/or all other elements or limitations (individually or in any combination) or any other invention or embodiment thereof disclosed herein, and all such combinations are contemplated with the scope of the invention without limitation thereto.

[0036] The terms occupy, occupied, and occupying are used herein for literary convenience to refer to a Torso Exercise Apparatus in use, wherein a person is positioned between the Anterior Pelvic Assembly and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly.

[0037] When the term about is used herein, in conjunction with a numerical value, it is understood that the value can be in a range of 95% of the value to 105% of the value, i.e., the value can be +/5% of the stated value. For example, about 0.5 means from 0.475 to 0.525.

[0038] Finally, the present invention is more particularly described in the following examples that are intended to be illustrative only because numerous modifications and variations therein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. As used in the specification and in the claims, the singular for a, an and the include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0039] It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of embodiments of the present invention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, other elements that may be well known. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other elements may be desirable and/or required in order to implement the present invention.

[0040] Reference will be made to the attached figures on which the same reference numerals are used throughout to indicate the same or similar components. With reference to the attached figures, which show certain embodiments of the subject invention, it can be seen in FIG. 1 that a Torso Exercise Apparatus 500 of the subject invention, comprises an Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 and a Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 (referred to collectively herein as the Assemblies) between which a pelvic area can be compressed for stabilization. A height adjustment mechanism 30 can be utilized to optimize the height of the Assemblies with respect to the pelvic area. The Assemblies can also be adjustably connected to a linear rail 10. The Anterior Pelvic Assembly and Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be further adjustably connected by an adjustable linkage 350 controlled by a horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 to optimize the distance therebetween for stabilizing the pelvic area. The fore and aft position of the Assemblies can also be adjusted on the linear rail, relative to a means of resistance 38, to optimize the range of motion 330 for an exercise or other motion of the upper body. Each of these general components can have one or more sub-components, which will be discussed in detail below.

[0041] The Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 comprises a front bracket 22 that supports a front post 24. The front post can further support thereon at least one anterior pelvic pad 26 that can be compressed against an anterior pelvic area. The front post can have any of a variety of linear shapes conducive to compression of the pelvic area with the one or more anterior pelvic pads. In one embodiment, the front post is linear and extends substantially vertical, as shown, by way of example in FIGS. 1-5. Alternatively, the front post has a curvature or bow, that causes it to extend at an angle or to bend toward the pelvic area, non-limited examples of which are shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10.

[0042] The front post can further support at least one anterior support arm 27 that can support thereon one or more anterior pelvic pads 12. The anterior support arm can have a shape or configuration that supports the anterior pelvic pads in a position conducive to being compressed against the anterior pelvic area. FIGS. 1-5 illustrate examples of an anterior support arm with more than one anterior pelvic pad supported thereon. FIGS. 6, 8 and 10 illustrate examples of an anterior support arm with a single anterior pelvic pad supported thereon. In one embodiment, the anterior support arm is U-shaped and the terminal ends 25 are operably connected to one anterior pelvic pad. In an alternative embodiment, the anterior support arm is U-shaped and the terminal ends are each operably connected to side-by-side anterior pelvic pads. In a further embodiment, the support arm is fixedly attached to the front post.

[0043] The height of the front post 24 can be adjusted relative to the front bracket 22 utilizing a height adjustment mechanism 30, which is shown, for example, in FIGS. 1-4. The height adjustment mechanism can be utilized to adjust the height of the front post with the anterior pelvic pads 26. Thus, the height adjustment mechanism can be positioned to a side and/or to the fore of the Anterior Pelvic Assembly, which can facilitate making height adjustments while occupying the torso exercise apparatus 500. FIGS. 1-4 illustrate non-limited examples of a height adjustment mechanism arranged to a left side of and to the fore of an Anterior Pelvic Assembly. In a specific embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises a handwheel. The handwheel can be turned or rotated, for example, in a counterclockwise direction to raise the anterior pelvic pads on the front post, as illustrated, for example in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0044] The Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 can comprise a rear bracket 16 that supports a rear post 17. The rear post can further support thereon at least one posterior pelvic pad 12 that can be compressed against a posterior pelvic area. The rear post 17 can also support thereon a posterior torso pad 18. In one embodiment, the rear post has one or more uprights 14 that extend therefrom. The uprights can support thereon at least one of a posterior pelvic pad 12 and a posterior torso pad 18 there above. In one embodiment, a posterior pelvic pad 12 is supported on an upright that extends toward the posterior pelvic area. In a further embodiment, a posterior torso pad 18 is supported on another or second upright that extends above the posterior pelvic pad and toward the upper torso and neck area, which is illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 10. Thus, the posterior pelvic pad and posterior torso pad can have a vertical configuration, with one above the other.

[0045] The posterior torso pad 18 can support and stabilize the torso, which can be beneficial when applying a front/anterior compression force against the torso. FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a posterior torso pad comprising angled side supports 151 that can provide both lateral and rotational support to the torso. FIG. 14 illustrates a posterior torso pad supporting the upper torso during an anterior compression exercise. Between the angled side supports there can be a curved or rounded center pad portion 150 that can provide additional support to the center or spinal area of the torso. The angled side supports can provide additional support during front/anterior compression and an increased stretching capability. The angled side supports can have an angle therebetween, such that the sides of the posterior torso pad are more forward of the rounded center pad portion. Stated another way, the sides of the posterior torso pad are angled towards the means of resistance, such that the shoulders are supported during exercise. In one embodiment, the angle 152 between the angled side supports is between about 100 and about 170, between about 110 and about 160, between about 120 and about 150, between about 130 and about 140, or between about 130 and about 145.

[0046] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of a posterior torso pad 18 that can incorporate neck or cervical spine support. Neck and cervical spine support can be desirable when exerting a relatively high level of effort by pushing toward the anterior side of the body. To provide neck and cervical spine support, the posterior torso pad, such as shown, for example, in FIG. 13, can incorporate a neck extension 162 at the upper end that juts out from the posterior torso pad and can align with the neck.

[0047] To facilitate additional adjustment of the posterior torso pad 18, the upright 14 on which the posterior torso pad is supported can be adjustable, independent of the rear post. The independent adjustability of the posterior torso pad can be achieved by any of a variety of devices and methods known to those with skill in the art. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 6, the upper upright 14 that supports the posterior torso pad has a telescoping connection for raising and lowering the posterior torso pad or for moving the posterior torso pad fore and aft, or a combination thereof.

[0048] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an alternative embodiment of a Torso Exercise Apparatus 500. This embodiment utilizes a pelvic compression belt 210 in place of or in conjunction with the one or more posterior pelvic pads 12 described above. The pelvic compression belt can be adjustably attached to the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200. When tightened, the pelvic area can be stabilized between the pelvic compression belt and the one or more anterior pelvic pads 26. The Posterior Pelvic Apparatus can also provide one or more posterior torso pads 18, as shown in FIG. 11. In one embodiment, the pelvic compression belt is tightened with a ratchet mechanism 31.

[0049] The Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 can be operably connected to the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200. This operable connection allows the height of the rear post 17 to be adjusted relative to the rear bracket 16 simultaneously with the adjustment of the height of the front post 24, by utilizing the height adjustment mechanism 30, as discussed above. To achieve the simultaneous adjustment of the Assemblies, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be operably connected to the Anterior Pelvic assembly with a rigid adjustable linkage 350.

[0050] In one embodiment, the front bracket 22 has a front channel 23 and the rear bracket 16 has a rear channel 15. The channels can also face each other between the Assemblies, an example, of which, is shown in FIGS. 1 to 4. In a further embodiment, an adjustable linkage 350 is operably connected to the front post 24 through the front channel 23 and to the rear post through the rear channel 15. When the height of the front post is adjusted with the height adjustment mechanism 30, the height of the rear post is simultaneously adjusted through the adjustable linkage between the two. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate examples of this embodiment where FIG. 3 shows the front post and the rear post in one position and by rotating the height adjustment mechanism, as shown in FIG. 4, both the front post and rear post can be raised, thereby raising the anterior pelvic pads 26 and posterior pelvic pads 12 thereon, respectively. There are numerous devices and techniques known in the art that can be employed to operably attach a rigid adjustable linkage between the Assemblies. Such variations are considered to be within the scope of the subject invention.

[0051] To stabilize the pelvic area, the one or more anterior pelvic pads 26 and the one or more posterior pelvic pads 12 can be brought closer together to reduce a compression distance 320 therebetween to stabilize the pelvic area. As discussed above, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 can be operably attached to the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 with a rigid but adjustable linkage 350 to adjust the height of the Assemblies. The adjustable linkage can also be utilized to move the Posterior Pelvic Assembly fore 2 or aft 3 to adjust the compression distance 320.

[0052] In one embodiment, the adjustable linkage 350 is a linear actuator. The linear actuator can be utilized to pull or push the Posterior Pelvic Assembly fore or aft to reduce or increase, respectively, the compression distance 320 from the Anterior Pelvic Assembly. Any of a variety of linear actuators could be utilized as an adjustable linkage with the embodiments of the subject invention. A person skilled in the art would be able to determine an appropriate linear actuator for use with embodiments of the subject invention.

[0053] In one embodiment, the adjustable linkage is a manual linear actuator. In a further embodiment, the linear actuator can be controlled with a horizontal adjustment mechanism 58, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 2-3. In a specific embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises a handwheel. Turning or rotating the handwheel, for example, in a counterclockwise direction, can move the Posterior Pelvic Assembly closer to the Anterior Pelvic Assembly, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 3 and 4. It can be beneficial if the horizontal adjustment mechanism is positioned to a side or to the fore of the Anterior Pelvic Assembly, which can facilitate making adjustment to compression distance 320 while occupying the torso exercise apparatus 500. FIGS. 1-4 illustrate non-limited examples of a horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 arranged to a right side and to the fore of an Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 10, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 can be positioned on a surface at an appropriate distance from a means of resistance 38, such as, for example, a weight stack with a cable and pulley system. In one embodiment, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly is fixedly attached to the surface and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can configured to be moveable on the surface. In one embodiment, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be operably connected to a rail 10, such as shown, for example in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8. The Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be moved on the rail 10 to adjust the compression distance 320.

[0055] Determining the appropriate distance or range of motion 330 from a means of resistance 38 can depend on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the physical characteristics of a person using the Torso Exercise Apparatus 500, the means of resistance being utilized, the motion to be performed, and other factors known to those with skill in the art. Therefore, it can be beneficial if the position of each component of the Torso Exercise Apparatus 500 is adjustable relative to the means of resistance to optimize the range of motion.

[0056] To implement adjustability of the Torso Exercise Apparatus relative to the means of resistance 38, the Anterior and the Posterior Pelvic Assemblies can be operably connected to, or mounted on, a rail 10. A rail can be used to guide and support the Assemblies, moveably mounted thereon, and secure their positions relative to each other. The positions of the Assemblies can also be adjusted relative to a means of resistance 38. Rails are known in the art and are utilized to move or adjust positions of a variety of devices. Preferably, a rail utilized with the Torso Exercise Apparatus is suitable for making incremental adjustments. In more preferred embodiment, a rail utilized with the Torso Exercise Apparatus can allow for adjustments in increments of at least about 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2.0, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3.0 or in increments between any two of the listed values.

[0057] In one embodiment, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 and Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 are arranged on a rail 10 comprising a plurality of teeth 11. In a further embodiment, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly has an operable connection to the rail, such that the Anterior Pelvic Assembly engages with the plurality of teeth. In one embodiment, the range adjustment lever is operably connected to the front bracket 22 and engages with the teeth on the rail to adjust the Anterior Pelvic Assembly fore or aft on the rail. The operable connection can allow the Anterior Pelvic Assembly to be moved incrementally on the rail to a position of optimal range of motion 330 and to be held or secured in that position with the teeth. In a more specific embodiment, the rail and the range adjustment lever comprise a ratchet, wherein the range adjustment lever 32 has a ratchet mechanism 31 that can operably engage with the teeth on the rail and can be utilized to move the Anterior Pelvic Assembly in at least one of a fore 2 and aft 3 direction on the rail. By way of a non-limiting example, shown in FIG. 5, the range adjustment lever can be arranged in front of the Anterior Pelvic Assembly, for convenient and accurate adjustment while occupying the Torso Exercise Apparatus. In a further embodiment, the Anterior Pelvic Assembly can be attached to the range adjustment lever. In one embodiment, the range adjustment lever can be moved in a fore or aft direction, which causes the range adjustment lever to move on the rail, which can simultaneously and incrementally move the Anterior Pelvic Assembly on the rail. The adjustable linkage 350 allows the Posterior Pelvic Assembly to be moved along with the Anterior Pelvic Assembly. For example, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be pushed or pulled simultaneously when the Anterior Pelvic Assembly is adjusted with the adjustment lever. Alternatively, the range adjustment lever can be held in a position that disengages it from the rail, which can allow either or both the Anterior Pelvic Assembly and Posterior Pelvic Assembly to be manually pushed or pulled on the rail to achieve a gross adjustment. The range adjustment lever can then be reengaged and used to fine-tune the range of motion 330.

[0058] In a further embodiment, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly is arranged on the rail 10 and can move freely fore and aft. In other words, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly does not engage with the plurality of teeth. As described above, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can be operably connected to the Anterior Pelvic Assembly. Thus, when the Anterior Pelvic Assembly is moved or adjusted on the rail, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly is simultaneously moved or adjusted on the rail. Furthermore, when the horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 is employed to adjust the compression distance 320, the Posterior Pelvic Assembly can freely slide, roll, glide, or otherwise move unimpeded on the rail in a fore or aft direction as needed.

[0059] The rail 10 can be stabilized on the floor or other surface. This can have several advantages, including, maintaining the distance of the rail from the means of resistance and providing consistency in making adjustments to the Torso Exercise Apparatus components. In one embodiment the aft 2 end of the rail is attached to a frame 40. The frame can stabilize the rail on a floor or other surface at the desired distance from the means of resistance, which is shown, for example, in FIGS. 4 and 5. The frame can be further connected to the means of resistance 38. In one embodiment, the means of resistance is surrounded by a shell 20. The frame can be attached to the shell, which is shown, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0060] An advantage of the Torso Exercise Apparatus 500, which has been mentioned, is the ability to occupy the apparatus while making the desirable adjustments to the height of the Assemblies, compression distance 320, and range of motion. To encourage the proper stance when occupying the Apparatus, one or more foot support pads 28 can be employed with the Anterior Pelvic Apparatus 200. In one embodiment, the one or more foot support pads are fixedly attached to the front bracket 22, an example, of which, is shown in FIGS. 1 and 5.

[0061] Another advantage of the Torso Exercise Apparatus is the design flexibility that allows for additional pads to be incorporated therewith. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of an anterior torso pad 130 that could be incorporated with the Anterior Pelvic Assembly. The anterior torso pad can extend above the one or more anterior pelvic pads on another or a second anterior support arm 27. FIG. 15 further illustrates an example of a thigh pad 101 that could be incorporated with the Posterior Pelvic Assembly. The thigh pad can be supported on an upright 14 that extends below the posterior pelvic pad, as shown, for example, in FIG. 15. One more additional supports can be use to support the thigh pad.

[0062] To use a Torso Exercise Apparatus 500, according to the subject invention, requires positioning the torso between the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300. In one embodiment, the anterior pelvic area can be positioned against the one or more anterior pelvic pads 26. Utilizing the height adjustment mechanism 30, the height of the anterior pelvic pads can be adjusted, which will simultaneously adjust the height of the posterior pelvic pads 12 against the anterior pelvic area. The range adjustment lever 32 can be used to simultaneously move the Anterior Pelvic Assembly 200 and the Posterior Pelvic Assembly 300 to a position that provides a desired range of motion 330 with the means of resistance 38. The horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 can be employed to reduce the compression distance 320 between the Assemblies and compress the pelvic area between the anterior pelvic pads 26 and the posterior pelvic pads 12. The steps of performing the desired motion can then be performed by first grasping a handle 44 that is operably connected to a cable 42 that is wound around at least one of a lower pulley 34 and an upper pulley 36 and further engages with a means of resistance, such as, for example, a weight stack, as shown in FIGS. 1-5.

[0063] Alternatively, after adjusting the height of the one or more anterior pelvic pads 26, the horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 can be used to reduce the compression distance 320 and compress the pelvic area. The range adjustment lever 32 can next be used to adjust the range of motion 330. Alternatively, any one or more of the height adjustment mechanism, the horizontal adjustment mechanism, and the range adjustment lever can be employed to make adjustments prior to occupying the Torso Exercise Apparatus.

[0064] Embodiments that utilize a compression belt alone or in combination with the one or more posterior pelvic pads can employ substantially the same methods described above. After adjusting the range of motion 330 with the range of motion lever, the compression belt can be tightened to stabilize the pelvic area. If a Posterior Pelvic Assembly is utilized to support one or more torso support pads, the compression distance 320 can be adjusted with the horizontal adjustment mechanism 58 before or after the pelvic compression belt is tightened.

[0065] The Torso Exercise Apparatus of the subject invention can reinforce the support demands of a pelvic area, which can aid in the safety and freedom of possible movements related to critical bio mechanics of the human spine. Even remaining stationary without proper support for extended periods of time can be painful on the torso and lower back, in addition to the associated mental fatigue. The subject invention provides an apparatus that properly reinforces the bio-mechanics involved when performing certain types of motions by providing direct pelvic compression for needed support.

[0066] All patents, patent applications, provisional applications, and other publications referred to or cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety, including all figures and tables, to the extent they are not inconsistent with the explicit teachings of this specification. Additionally, the entire contents of the references cited within the references cited herein are also entirely incorporated by reference.

[0067] The examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application.