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Weightlifting Machine

20250339726 ยท 2025-11-06

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    A counterweight mechanism for use with a weightlifting machine including first and second input cables. The mechanism includes a peanut pulley having a top wheel configured to engage the first input cable, two bottom wheels, a counterweight pulley positioned below the peanut pulley and having a counterweight pulley frame and a counterweight pulley wheel mounted therein, where the counterweight pulley wheel engages the second input cable, and a counterweight positioned below the counterweight pulley, such that the counterweight pulley is positioned between the counterweight and the peanut pulley. Two counterweight cables each have ends fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and to the counterweight, and the counterweight cables are engaged with the bottom wheels of the peanut pulley. A weight rack assembly including the counterweight mechanism may also include a removable low row assembly and/or a removable box squat assembly.

    Claims

    1. A counterweight mechanism for use with a weightlifting machine including a first input cable operably connected to a weight source and a second input cable, comprising: a peanut pulley having a top wheel configured to engage the first input cable, a first bottom wheel, and a second bottom wheel; a counterweight pulley positioned below the peanut pulley and comprising a counterweight pulley frame and a counterweight pulley wheel mounted in the counterweight pulley frame, wherein the counterweight pulley wheel is configured to engage the second input cable; a counterweight positioned below the counterweight pulley, such that the counterweight pulley is positioned between the counterweight and the peanut pulley; a first counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the first counterweight cable is engaged with the first bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends; and a second counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the second counterweight cable is engaged with the second bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends.

    2. The counterweight mechanism of claim 1, wherein the counterweight has a slot configured for permitting the second input cable to pass by the counterweight by passing through the slot.

    3. The counterweight mechanism of claim 1, wherein the counterweight and the counterweight pulley frame each have a plurality of rollers configured to engage inner surfaces of a rail in which the counterweight and the counterweight pulley frame are configured to be positioned.

    4. The counterweight mechanism of claim 1, wherein the counterweight mechanism is configured to remove slack introduced into the first input cable.

    5. The counterweight mechanism of claim 4, wherein the counterweight mechanism is configured such that when the slack is introduced into the first input cable, the peanut pulley is configured to move downward, thereby causing the counterweight to drop relative to the counterweight pulley.

    6. The counterweight mechanism of claim 5, wherein the counterweight mechanism is configured to be moveable over a range of travel, wherein at a first end of the range of travel, the peanut pulley engages the counterweight pulley, and at a second end of the range of travel, the counterweight engages the counterweight pulley.

    7. The counterweight mechanism of claim 1, wherein the peanut pulley further has a second top wheel configured to engage the first input cable.

    8. A weightlifting machine configured to be mounted on a weight rack, comprising: a weight source configured to be moveable and to provide resistance during a weightlifting exercise; a first input cable having a first input point configured to receive user input, wherein the first input cable is engaged with the weight source; a second input cable having a second input point configured to receive user input; and a counterweight mechanism configured to remove slack in the first input cable when the weight source is placed in an elevated position, comprising: a peanut pulley having a first top wheel engaging the first input cable, a first bottom wheel, and a second bottom wheel; a counterweight pulley positioned below the peanut pulley and comprising a counterweight pulley frame and a counterweight pulley wheel mounted in the counterweight pulley frame, wherein the counterweight pulley wheel engages the second input cable; a counterweight positioned below the counterweight pulley, such that the counterweight pulley is positioned between the counterweight and the peanut pulley; a first counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the first counterweight cable is engaged with the first bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends; and a second counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the second counterweight cable is engaged with the second bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends, wherein the weightlifting machine is configured such that force exerted by a user at the first input point is configured to lift the weight source via the first input cable, and the weightlifting machine is further configured such that force exerted by a user at the second input point is configured to lift the weight source via the second input cable exerting downward force on the counterweight pulley, the counterweight pulley exerting downward force on the peanut pulley via the first counterweight cable and the second counterweight cable, and the peanut pulley exerting force on the first input cable.

    9. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, wherein the counterweight has a slot, permitting the second input cable to pass by the counterweight by passing through the slot.

    10. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, the counterweight mechanism is configured such that when the slack is introduced into the first input cable, the peanut pulley is configured to move downward, thereby causing the counterweight to drop relative to the counterweight pulley.

    11. The weightlifting machine of claim 10, wherein the counterweight mechanism is configured to be moveable over a range of travel, wherein at a first end of the range of travel, the peanut pulley engages the counterweight pulley, and at a second end of the range of travel, the counterweight engages the counterweight pulley.

    12. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, wherein the peanut pulley further has a second top wheel engaging the first input cable, such that the first input cable engages the weight source between engaging the first top wheel and the second top wheel.

    13. The weightlifting machine of claim 12, wherein the weight source comprises a weight source pulley, and the first input cable engages the weight source pulley between engaging the first top wheel and the second top wheel.

    14. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, wherein the weight source comprises a carriage moveably mounted on a vertical rail, such that the carriage is configured to travel along the vertical rail to provide the resistance during the weightlifting exercise.

    15. The weightlifting machine of claim 14, wherein the counterweight mechanism is received within the vertical rail, such that the peanut pulley, the counterweight pulley, the counterweight, the first counterweight cable, and the second counterweight cable are all moveable within the vertical rail.

    16. The weightlifting machine of claim 15, wherein the counterweight and the counterweight pulley frame each have a plurality of rollers configured to engage inner surfaces of the vertical rail.

    17. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, wherein the weightlifting machine further comprises a first adjustable pulley assembly and a second adjustable pulley assembly configured to be mounted on the weight rack in a position-adjustable configuration, wherein the first input cable is engaged with the first adjustable pulley assembly at the first input point, such that the first input point is a first adjustable input point, and the first input cable is further engaged with the second adjustable pulley assembly to form a second adjustable input point configured to receive user input.

    18. The weightlifting machine of claim 8, wherein the second input point is a lat pull input point configured to receive user input in a lat pull exercise, and the second input cable further has a belt squat input point configured to receive user input in a belt squat exercise.

    19. A weightlifting rack assembly comprising: a weight rack comprising a plurality of frame members including vertical frame members and horizontal frame members joined together, and a platform supported by the frame members, the platform having a slot and configured for supporting a user during a belt squat exercise; and a weightlifting machine mounted on the weight rack, comprising: a weight source mounted on the weight rack and configured to provide resistance during a weightlifting exercise; a first input cable having a first input point configured to receive user input, wherein the first input cable is engaged with the weight source; a second input cable having a second input point configured to receive user input; and a counterweight mechanism configured to remove slack in the first input cable when the weight source is placed in an elevated position, comprising: a peanut pulley having a first top wheel engaging the first input cable, a first bottom wheel, and a second bottom wheel; a counterweight pulley positioned below the peanut pulley and comprising a counterweight pulley frame and a counterweight pulley wheel mounted in the counterweight pulley frame, wherein the counterweight pulley wheel engages the second input cable; a counterweight positioned below the counterweight pulley, such that the counterweight pulley is positioned between the counterweight and the peanut pulley; a first counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the first counterweight cable is engaged with the first bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends; and a second counterweight cable having a first end fixed to the counterweight pulley frame and a second end fixed to the counterweight, wherein the second counterweight cable is engaged with the second bottom wheel of the peanut pulley between the first and second ends, wherein the weightlifting machine is configured such that force exerted by a user at the first input point is configured to lift the weight source via the first input cable, and the weightlifting machine is further configured such that force exerted by a user at the second input point is configured to lift the weight source via the second input cable exerting downward force on the counterweight pulley, the counterweight pulley exerting downward force on the peanut pulley via the first counterweight cable and the second counterweight cable, and the peanut pulley exerting force on the first input cable.

    20. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the counterweight has a counterweight slot, permitting the second input cable to pass by the counterweight by passing through the counterweight slot.

    21. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, the counterweight mechanism is configured such that when the slack is introduced into the first input cable, the peanut pulley is configured to move downward, thereby causing the counterweight to drop relative to the counterweight pulley.

    22. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 21, wherein the counterweight mechanism is configured to be moveable over a range of travel, wherein at a first end of the range of travel, the peanut pulley engages the counterweight pulley, and at a second end of the range of travel, the counterweight engages the counterweight pulley.

    23. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the peanut pulley further has a second top wheel engaging the first input cable, such that the first input cable engages the weight source between engaging the first top wheel and the second top wheel.

    24. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 23, wherein the weight source comprises a weight source pulley, and the first input cable engages the weight source pulley between engaging the first top wheel and the second top wheel.

    25. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the weight source comprises a carriage moveably mounted on a vertical rail coupled to the weight rack, such that the carriage is configured to travel along the vertical rail to provide the resistance during the weightlifting exercise.

    26. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 25, wherein the counterweight mechanism is received within the vertical rail, such that the peanut pulley, the counterweight pulley, the counterweight, the first counterweight cable, and the second counterweight cable are all moveable within the vertical rail.

    27. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 26, wherein the counterweight and the counterweight pulley frame each have a plurality of rollers configured to engage inner surfaces of the vertical rail.

    28. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the weightlifting machine further comprises a first adjustable pulley assembly and a second adjustable pulley assembly mounted on the weight rack in a position-adjustable configuration, wherein the first input cable is engaged with the first adjustable pulley assembly at the first input point, such that the first input point is a first adjustable input point, and the first input cable is further engaged with the second adjustable pulley assembly to form a second adjustable input point configured to receive user input.

    29. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the second input point is a lat pull input point configured to receive user input in a lat pull exercise, and the second input cable extends through the slot in the platform to form a belt squat input point configured to receive the user input during the belt squat exercise.

    30. The weightlifting rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the second input cable extends through the slot in the platform, such that the second input point is a belt squat input point configured to receive the user input during the belt squat exercise.

    Description

    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

    [0035] To allow for a more full understanding of the present disclosure, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

    [0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a weight rack assembly including a weightlifting machine according to aspects of the disclosure, with a locking member shown in a release position;

    [0037] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1;

    [0038] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1, with a portion removed to show internal detail;

    [0039] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1, with a portion removed to show internal detail;

    [0040] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1, with the locking member shown in a locking position;

    [0041] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5, with additional shrouds connected to the weight rack assembly;

    [0042] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0043] FIG. 8 is a side view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0044] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0045] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0046] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1;

    [0047] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1;

    [0048] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1;

    [0049] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1 and FIG. 5, with the counterweight mechanism shown in a position between the positions of FIG. 1 and FIG. 5;

    [0050] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0051] FIG. 16 is a side view of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0052] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a portion of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0053] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0054] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the counterweight mechanism of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5;

    [0055] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 5, with user-engaging members connected thereto;

    [0056] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a weight rack assembly including a weightlifting machine according to aspects of the disclosure;

    [0057] FIG. 22 is a rear perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 21;

    [0058] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 21;

    [0059] FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 21, with a portion removed to show internal detail;

    [0060] FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 21, with a portion removed to show internal detail;

    [0061] FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 1, with a low row assembly connected to the weight rack assembly;

    [0062] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 26;

    [0063] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 26;

    [0064] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 26

    [0065] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a portion of the weight rack assembly of FIG. 26, showing connection of the low row assembly to the weight rack assembly;

    [0066] FIG. 31 is a partially-exploded rear perspective view of the low row assembly of FIG. 26;

    [0067] FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view of the low row assembly of FIG. 26;

    [0068] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the low row assembly of FIG. 26, with a box squat assembly engaged with the low row assembly; and

    [0069] FIG. 34 is a rear perspective view of the low row assembly and the box squat assembly of FIG. 33.

    DETAILED DESCRIPTION

    [0070] While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail example embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. In the following description of various example structures according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example devices, systems, and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts, example devices, systems, and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

    [0071] Referring now to the figures and initially to FIGS. 1-20, there is shown an example embodiment of a weight rack assembly 10 that includes a weight rack 11 and a weightlifting machine 30 mounted on the weight rack 11, which includes a weight source 31 and a cable system 32. The weight rack 11 includes a plurality of frame members 12 arranged to form a frame, including vertical frame members 12A extending upward from the ground surface and horizontal frame members 12B extending between the vertical frame members 12A, at right angles. The weight rack 11 may be configured to have two sides with various cross-members, including one or more horizontal frame members 12B or other cross-members such as a pull-up bar 13, connecting the two sides. The weight rack 11 in FIGS. 1-20 is configured as a power rack, but other configurations are possible, such as a half-rack as shown in multiple embodiments disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/055,385, which is incorporated by reference herein. It is understood that if the weight rack assembly 10 is provided as a half rack, the weightlifting machine 30 will have a shorter overall length and thus shorter distances between certain components such as the top rack pulleys 46 and the bottom rack pulleys 56. The frame members 12 in FIGS. 1-20 are hollow steel tubes having a square cross-section (e.g., 33 inch), but may be another rectangular shape (e.g., 43 inch), or a different shape, in another embodiment. The frame members 12 in this embodiment also have a plurality of holes in some or all of the four side surfaces, which are configured for receiving fasteners or other connectors to connect the frame members 12 together, as well as to connect various implements (including the weightlifting machine 30) to the weight rack 11. It is understood that the weight rack 11 may further be configured for use in other weightlifting exercises that do not use the weightlifting machine 30.

    [0072] The frame members 12 in the weight rack 11 of FIGS. 1-20 further include two angled members 12C positioned at horizontal angles (e.g., 30-60 or approximately) 50 to the horizontal frame members 12B, and also at horizontal angles to the flat sides of the vertical frame members 12A. The angled members 12C extend at angles inward from the two sides of the weight rack 11 and meet at a lateral centerline of the weight rack 11, and the frame members 12 further include a central longitudinal member 12D extending from a cross-member formed by one of the horizontal frame members 12B, along the lateral centerline of the weight rack 11, to the juncture between the two angled members 12C. The angled members 12C and the central longitudinal member 12D form a support for the weight source 31 and a support and routing system for the pulleys of the cable system 32 as described herein. The angled members 12C are each configured for having one or more pulleys mounted thereon and/or at least partially therein, and for having a section of the cable system 32 extend within and through the internal cavity thereof. Each angled member 12C may have slots (not shown) in the underside for this purpose. The weight rack 11 also includes a horizontal support member 12E at one end to support components of the weightlifting machine 30, and a platform 82 connected to the weight rack 11 for use in various weightlifting exercises, such as a squat exercise. The platform 82 is supported by a support frame 89 that includes horizontal frame members 12B, the horizontal support member 12E, and potentially additional support members (not shown) located beneath the platform 82. It is understood that the weight rack 11 may include other components, such as feet, nameplates, and various other accessories, connections, and implements, some of which are shown in the drawings.

    [0073] The weightlifting machine 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 includes a weight source 31 in the form of in the form of a carriage 70 that is configured for weight loading, such as by addition of weight plates (not shown) or resistance bands (not shown), a cable system 32 connected to the weight source 31, and a plurality of user input points 33 connected to the weight source 31 by the cable system 32. The weightlifting machine 30 in this embodiment includes a carriage support 71, and the carriage 70 is moveably mounted on the carriage support 71, such that a user, by exerting force at one of the input points 33, pulls the weight carriage 70 upward along the carriage support 71 via the cable system 32, with the weight of the weight carriage 70 providing resistance to the user in this motion. At least some aspects of the weight source 31 may be configured as shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,058,909, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Additionally, the weightlifting machine 30 may be configured as a belt squat machine such as shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,058,909.

    [0074] The carriage support 71 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 includes a base 72 affixed to the horizontal support member 12E of the weight rack 11 and resting on the ground surface, and a track or guide in the form of a rail 73 that extends vertically upward from the base 72, such that the weight carriage 70 is mounted on the rail 73 and the rail 73 guides the movement of the weight carriage 70. The rail 73 in this embodiment is formed by a single upright rail. In other embodiments, the track may be formed of two or more parallel rails 73 that are engaged with the weight carriage 70 or a different structure. The rail 73 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20.

    [0075] The weight carriage 70 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 is moveably mounted on the rail 73 of the carriage support 71 by one or more track-engaging structures, and has one or more weight mounts 74 to support and/or engage removable weights. The carriage 70 in FIGS. 1-20 has a weight mount 74 formed as a beam that extends horizontally outward from both sides of the carriage 70 to form supports for weight plates and/or connections for resistance bands or other weights. The track-engaging structure(s) in FIGS. 1-20 include rollers 75 that are positioned to engage the rail 73 and define a passage through the carriage 70, such that the rail 73 extends through the passage. In this configuration, the rail 73 is surrounded on all sides by the carriage 70 and is engaged on at least two sides by the carriage 70. In another embodiment, the carriage 70 may engage the rail 73 differently. The carriage 70 in FIGS. 1-20 has four total rollers 75, with two rollers 75 on each side of the passage. Each of the rollers 75 has an axle that defines an axis of rotation of the roller 75, and all of the rollers 75 in this embodiment rotate freely on parallel axes. The carriage 70 includes two plates 76 that are parallel and spaced from each other, and the rollers 75 are connected to the two plates 76 and extend between the two plates 76. The plates 76 define the lateral sides of the passage, with the rollers 75 defining the front and rear sides of the passage. The rollers 75 provide the sole points of engagement between the carriage 70 and the rail 73 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. It is understood that the axles of the rollers 75 extend completely through each roller 75 and between the plates 76 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. In another embodiment, the axle of each roller 75 may be defined by a pair of spindles or other rotary structure on each end of the roller 75.

    [0076] In another embodiment, the weight carriage 70 may include track-engaging structures that engage the rail 73 in a different manner, and the rail 73 may include complementary structures for such engagement. For example, the rail 73 may include rails, flanges, grooves, lips, or other structures that are engaged by track-engaging structures of the carriage 70, such as rollers, wheels, clamps, etc.

    [0077] The carriage 70 in FIGS. 1-20 is configured to move by translation up and down along the rail 73, and the rollers 75 roll against the outer surfaces of the rail 73 during this movement. As shown in FIGS. 7-10, the carriage support 71 has stops 77 near the bottom of the rail 73 that prevent further downward movement of the carriage 70 when the carriage 70 contacts one of the stops 77, establishing a lowermost position of the carriage 50 in normal operation. The carriage support 71 in one embodiments may be provided with an attachment (not shown) that extends upward to engage the weight mount 74 of the carriage 70, in place of or in addition to the stops 77. Additionally, the carriage 70 may have an engagement member 79 at the front of the carriage 70. The engagement member 79 in the example shown in FIGS. 1-20 is a bar or peg that extends between the plates 76 at the front of the carriage 70. The function of the engagement member 79 is described in greater detail herein. The carriage 70 and the weight or weights engaged therewith may be considered to form a moveable weight assembly to provide resistance for a weightlifting exercise.

    [0078] The cable system 32 has a plurality of input points 33 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20, including two height-adjustable input points 33A, a belt squat input point 33B, and a lat pull input point 33C. It is understood that any of the input points 33 may be used for a variety of different exercises. Each of the input points 33 is at an end of a cable of the cable system 32 and may include a connector 34 (e.g., a clip) for connection of a handle or other user engaging member (e.g., a grip, belt, etc.) and optionally a stop (not shown), such as a rubber ball. The user engaging member may be a bar, handle, grip, or other member designed for gripping by a user's hands; a strap, belt, harness, or other member designed for engaging a user's torso, or a different member designed to be engaged by a different part of the user's body (e.g., leg, foot, head, etc.) to exert force on the cable system 32 at the input point 33. FIG. 20 illustrates one example of user engaging members 35 in the form of D-handles. In general, the belt squat input point 33B may be connected to a belt (not shown) for wrapping around a user's waist/hips for use in a belt squat exercise, and the lat pull input point 33C may be connected to a lat pull handle (e.g., a bar with angled ends). Nevertheless, the lat pull input point 33C and/or the belt squat input point 33B may be used for other exercises, and may include a different user-engaging member for that purpose.

    [0079] The cable system 32 includes a plurality of cables 41, 54, 60 routed through a plurality of pulleys to connect the various input points 33 to the weight source 31. The routing of the cable system 32 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 produces different mechanical advantages for different input points 33. For example, the adjustable input points 33A have a 2:1 mechanical advantage, i.e., such that the force experienced at each of the input points 33A is half of the selected weight of the weight source 31. As another example, the belt squat input point 33B and the lat pull input point 33C have 1:1 mechanical advantages, such that the force experienced at the input points 33B-C is equivalent to the selected weight of the weight source 31. Additionally, the routing of the cable system 32 permits the adjustable input points 33A to be height-adjustable while using only a single weight source 31 in combination with one or more other input points 33B-C.

    [0080] The cable system 32 includes a single input cable 41 for both of the adjustable input points 33A that runs from one of the adjustable input points 33A, through a weight source pulley 42 that exerts force directly on the weight source 31 via connection to the carriage 70, and to the other adjustable input point 33A. Each of the adjustable input points 33A is provided at an adjustable combination pulley 53 that is a double pulley mounted on a bracket 43 that is adjustable to be fixed at a plurality of positions along the length of one of the vertical frame members 12A, such as by using a grip 45 and a releasable pin 66 (which may be a spring-loaded pop pin). The input cable 41 extends upward from the combination pulley 53 over two top rack pulleys 46 that redirect the input cable 41 horizontally and vertically to a peanut pulley 47. Each combination of two top rack pulleys 46 are mounted on a single, elongated pulley mount 48 that extends horizontally along the outside of the weight rack 11 in this embodiment, but separate pulley mounts may be used in another embodiment. The input cable 41 then extends from the peanut pulley 47 to a first angled pulley 49 that redirects the input cable 41 from vertical to an angled horizontal direction that travels along one of the angled members 12C. The first angled pulleys 49 in FIGS. 1-20 are also mounted on the elongated pulley mount 48 with the top rack pulleys 46, but each angled pulley 49 may alternately be mounted on a separate pulley mount or mounted on the adjacent angled member 12C in other embodiments. In this embodiment, the input cable 41 travels within the angled member 12C through at least a portion of the journey along the angled member 12C. Second angled pulleys 50 are mounted at least partially within the angled members 12C and redirect the input cable 41 downward to one of two top wheels 59 of a double peanut pulley 51. The input cable 41 is then directed back upward through one of a pair of third angled pulleys 69 that directs the input cable 41 back downward. The double peanut pulley 51 in this embodiment is positioned within an elongated cavity 81 of the rail 73 and can travel vertically within the rail 73, as shown in FIGS. 10-11. The double peanut pulley 51 may include rollers 109 (balls, cylinders, etc.) to assist in traveling within the rail 73, as described in greater detail herein. The third angled pulleys 69 extend rearward and outward from the weight rack 11 at the junction between the central longitudinal member 12D and the angled members 12C. From the third angled pulley 69, the input cable 41 is routed downward through the weight source pulley 42, then upward through the other third angled pulley 69, and back to the other adjustable combination pulley 53 in reverse order on the opposite side of the weight rack 11. The weight source pulley 42 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 is connected to the weight mount 74 of the carriage 70, such that the carriage 70 directly exerts weight on the input cable 41 through the weight source pulley 42. In this manner, the two adjustable input points 33A can be used independently, alone or simultaneously, to lift the weight source 31. The use of the double peanut pulley 51 provides a 2:1 mechanical advantage for each of the adjustable input points 33A as discussed herein.

    [0081] Each of the adjustable combination pulleys 53 is height-adjustable while maintaining tension in the input cable 41 by use of the peanut pulleys 47 and adjustable tension cables 54. One end 55 of each adjustable tension cable 54 is fixed to the bracket 43 of the adjustable combination pulley 53, and the adjustable tension cable 54 extends downward from the combination pulley 53 over two bottom rack pulleys 56 that redirect the adjustable tension cable 54 horizontally and vertically to the peanut pulley 47. Each combination of two bottom rack pulleys 56 are mounted on a single, elongated pulley mount 57 that extends horizontally along the outside of the weight rack 11 in this embodiment, but separate pulley mounts may be used in another embodiment. The adjustable tension cable 54 then extends downward to a second end 58 that is fixed directly or indirectly to the weight rack 11. As the adjustable combination pulley 53 is adjusted for height, the adjustable tension cable 54 moves generally the same distance as the input cable 41, thereby adjusting the vertical position of the peanut pulley 47 opposite of the direction of movement of the adjustable combination pulley 53, thereby ensuring the same travel length of the input cable 41 and retaining tension in the input cable 41.

    [0082] The weight rack 11 in FIGS. 1-20 may include shrouds covering certain components of the weightlifting machine 30, to provide a specific visual or ornamental appearance, to protect the components from interference, and/or to provide improved functionality. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the weight rack 11 may include inner shrouds 17 and outer shrouds 19 around the peanut pulleys 47 and the portions of the input cable 41 and the adjustable tension cables 54 engaging the peanut pulleys 47. The shrouds 17, 19 define an inner cavity in which the peanut pulleys 47 are positioned, and shields the peanut pulleys 47 and the cables 41, 54. Additionally, the inner shrouds 17 are outfitted with apertures (e.g., keyhole apertures) to permit mounting of various accessories. Other types and arrangements of shrouds may be used in other embodiments.

    [0083] The cable system 32 includes a second input cable 60 for the belt squat input point 33B and the lat pull input point 33C that runs from the belt squat input point 33B downward through the slot 83 in the platform and through a belt squat pulley 86 located below the slot 83, through a lower central pulley 62 (which is mounted on the base 72 below the rail 73). The second input cable 60 then extends upward through the cavity 81 in the rail 73 and through a counterweight pulley 101 of a counterweight mechanism 100. The structure and operation of the counterweight mechanism 100 and the double peanut pulley 51 in this embodiment are described in greater detail herein. The counterweight pulley 101 directs the second input cable 60 back downward through the cavity 81 of the rail 73 to a second lower central pulley 87, which then directs the second input cable 60 back upward behind the rail 73. The second input cable 60 extends upward from the second lower central pulley 87 to an upper central pulley 88, which directs the second input cable 60 laterally above the top surface of the central longitudinal member 12D to a lat pull pulley 68 and the lat pull input point 33C. In this embodiment, the upper central pulley 88 and the third angled pulleys 69 are mounted on a rail cap 94 at the top of the rail 73, which provides a pulley mount. This routing of the second input cable 60 provides a mechanical advantage of 1:1 for the belt squat input point 33B and the lat pull input point 33C. The routing configurations for the input cable 41 in this embodiment provides a mechanical advantage of 2:1 for each input point 33A of the input cable 41, as described previously.

    [0084] The weightlifting machine 30 includes a platform 82 connected to the weight rack 11 as described herein, and the platform 82 has a slot 83 for the second input cable 60 to extend through. The weightlifting machine 30 in FIGS. 1-20 may also be configured to additionally include another input point connected to the belt squat input point 33B by a cable extension, such as the low row input point 33D shown in FIGS. 26-32. Further, the weightlifting machine 30 in FIGS. 1-20 is provided with a locking mechanism including a pivoting body 84 pivotably connected to the weight rack 11 by one or more brackets or other pivot connections 37, with a locking member 85 in the form of a hook that is fixedly connected to the pivoting body 84 and pivots with the pivoting body 84 about the pivot point. The locking member 85 is configured to be moved by the pivoting body 84 between a locking position where the locking member 85 engages and supports the carriage 70 in an elevated position above the lowermost position of the carriage 70, and a release position, where the locking member 85 does not engage the carriage 70 or obstruct movement of the carriage 70, and the carriage 70 is free to move below the elevated position to a lowermost position of the carriage 70. The locking member 85 in this embodiment is configured to engage the engagement member 79 at the front of the carriage 70. This configuration and the operation thereof may be as shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,058,909, discussed elsewhere herein.

    [0085] In one embodiment, the weightlifting machine 30 further includes a cable tensioning mechanism configured to remove slack from the input cable 41 when the length of the path of the input cable 41 is shortened, such as by placing the carriage 70 in the elevated position using the locking member 85. This ensures that the input cable 41 and the adjustable tension cables 54 are always kept in tension. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20, the cable tensioning mechanism is in the form of a counterweight mechanism 100, which includes a counterweight pulley 101, a counterweight 102, and two counterweight cables 103 moveably suspending the counterweight pulley 101 and the counterweight 102 from the double peanut pulley 51. The double peanut pulley 51 in this embodiment is a double-double peanut pulley with two top wheels 59 and two bottom wheels 63. The input cable 41 is routed through the two top wheels 59 as described herein. The counterweight pulley 101 includes a counterweight pulley wheel 130 mounted in a counter-weight pulley frame 104. Each of the counterweight cables 103 has a first end 105 fixed to the counterweight pulley frame 104 and a second end 106 fixed to the counterweight 102, and each counterweight cable 103 is engaged with one of the bottom wheels 63 of the double peanut pulley 51 between the first and second ends 105, 106. The double peanut pulley 51 is positioned above the counterweight pulley 101, and the counterweight 102 is positioned below the counterweight pulley in this embodiment, such that counterweight pulley 101 is positioned between the double peanut pulley 51 and the counterweight 102. In this configuration, the counterweight 102 and the counterweight pulley 101 are vertically moveable with respect to each other by the counterweight cables 103 traveling through the two bottom wheels 63 of the double peanut pulley 51, and the counterweight 102 exerts an upward force on the counterweight pulley frame 104 via the counterweight cables 103. The counterweight pulley 101 may have a bumper 131 (e.g., a rubber material or other durable, resilient material) on the top of the counterweight pulley frame 104 for engaging the double peanut pulley 51 in a manner that avoids damage and/or excessive noise and impact energy.

    [0086] The counterweight 102 and the counterweight pulley frame 104 are shaped to fit within the cavity 81 of the rail 73, such that the components of the counterweight mechanism 100 are moveable vertically within the cavity 81. In another embodiment, a counterweight mechanism 100 may be positioned outside the rail 73, and it is understood that other components of the weightlifting machine 30 may be modified to relocate the counterweight mechanism 100. The counterweight 102 has a rectangular shape and is separate from the counterweight pulley frame 104, such that the counterweight 102 is moveable separate from the counterweight pulley 101. The counterweight 102 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 has slots 107 on the front and rear sides to permit the second input cable 60 to pass by the counterweight 102 without interference from the counterweight 102. The two vertical portions of the second input cable 60 pass through the slots 107 in extending to the counterweight pulley 101. Additionally, the counterweight 102 may have a plate 108 on the top, in order to partially receive and engage the counterweight pulley frame 104, to facilitate the counterweight 102 and the counterweight pulley frame 104 moving together. The counterweight 102 may have sufficient weight to completely offset the weights of both of the peanut pulleys 47, to prevent slack in the input cable 41 from being transferred to the adjustable tension cables 54. In one embodiment, the counterweight 102 may be at least 15 pounds, e.g., about 17 pounds. The counterweight 102, the double peanut pulley 51, and/or the counterweight pulley frame 104 may have structures to assist movement within the cavity 81 of the rail 73, such as rollers 109 on the outer portions thereof, in one embodiment. The counterweight 102 in FIGS. 84-91 has rollers 109 facing outward from all four peripheral surfaces, capable of engaging all four inner surfaces of the rectangular rail 73 when necessary. The double peanut pulley 51 and the counterweight pulley frame 104 in FIGS. 1-20 also have rollers 109 on both left and right lateral surfaces, to engage the inner surface of the rail 73 and assist movement of the double peanut pulley 51 and the counterweight pulley 101 within the cavity 81.

    [0087] In one embodiment, the rail 73 may include windows 15 (see FIG. 8), which may be covered by a transparent or semi-transparent cover material, to permit viewing of components inside the cavity 81 of the rail 73, e.g., the counterweight mechanism 100. The window(s) 15 may have shapes defined by a window plate 13 positioned over a larger opening (not shown) in the side of the rail 73, and the cover material may be connected to the window plate 13 (if present) and/or the rail 73.

    [0088] The configuration of the counterweight mechanism 100 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 removes slack from the input cable 41, if the weight source 31 (i.e., the carriage 70 in this embodiment) is raised without exerting force at one of the input points 33A, 33B, 33C. This action causes downward movement of the double peanut pulley 51, which in turn causes the counterweight 102 to drop relative to the counterweight pulley 101, as shown in FIG. 14. The positions of the double peanut pulley 51, the counterweight pulley 101, and the counterweight 102 when the carriage 70 is at the bottom of the travel range are shown in FIGS. 10-13. An example of the positions of the double peanut pulley 51, the counterweight pulley 101, and the counterweight 102 when the carriage 70 is raised a distance above the bottom of the travel range (e.g., when the carriage 70 is engaged with the locking member 85) is shown in FIGS. 15-18. In these positions, the counterweight 102 and the double peanut pulley 51 have travelled downward relative to the counterweight pulley 101 to the point where the counterweight pulley frame 104 abuts the bottom of the double peanut pulley 51. FIG. 14 illustrates the positions of the double peanut pulley 51, the counterweight pulley 101, and the counterweight 102 when travelling between the positions of FIGS. 10-13 and the positions of FIGS. 15-18. All slack in the input cable 41 is removed by the dropping of the double peanut pulley 51 and the counterweight 102.

    [0089] When the user begins to exert force on the cable system 32, e.g., at the belt squat input point 33C by wearing the belt and standing, the counterweight pulley 101 is pulled downward, and the counterweight 102 is simultaneously pulled back upward, such that the counterweight 102 and the counterweight pulley 101 move toward each other until the counterweight 102 engages the counterweight pulley frame 104. At that point, the positions of the double peanut pulley 51, the counterweight pulley 101, and the counterweight 102 (relative to each other) are the same as in the lowest position of the carriage 70, and the cable system 32 can operate normally, such that force is exerted at the belt squat input point 33C to raise the carriage 70. In order to engage the carriage 70 with the locking member 85, the carriage 70 may need to be raised up to about 16 inches in one embodiment, which would introduce a significant amount of slack into the input cable 41. This slack could potentially cause the input cable 41 be improperly positioned, such as by slipping out of engagement with pulleys and potentially getting stuck. Additionally, slack in the input cable 41 is visually unappealing. With the counterweight mechanism 100, this slack is avoided. In another embodiment, the counterweight mechanism 100 may be usable with a different type of weight source 31, e.g., a weight stack, and/or with a weightlifting machine 30 that has a different type of input point (e.g., a low row input point) instead of the belt squat input point 33C.

    [0090] In another embodiment, the weightlifting machine 30 of FIGS. 1-20 may be configured for connection to an existing general-use weight rack 11, such as a power rack or half rack, that is not otherwise specifically configured to fit the weightlifting machine 30. In such an embodiment, the weightlifting machine 30 may be provided as a kit for connection to the weight rack 11, to form a weight rack assembly 10 that includes some or all components and functionality of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. The kit may include additional frame members 12 configured to be added to and/or to replace the existing frame members of the general-use weight rack 11, including angled members 12C, a central longitudinal member 12D, and a horizontal support member 12E, as well as the platform 82, the rail 73, and the base 72, the rail cap 94, and other associated supporting structures for the platform 82 and the rail 73. The kit may also as well as various pulleys and pulley mounts, including the adjustable combination pulleys 53, the top rack pulleys 46 and their pulley mounts 48, the peanut pulleys 47, and the first, second, and third angled pulleys 49, 50, 69, the two bottom rack pulleys 56 and their pulley mounts 57, the lower central pulleys 62, 87, the belt squat pulley 86 and its mount, and the upper central pulley 88, as well as the double peanut pulley 51, the counterweight mechanism, and any associated pulleys. The kit may further include the input cables 41, 60, the adjustable tension cables 54, and the carriage 70 outfitted with a weight source pulley 42, as well as connectors 34, user-engaging members (handles, grips, belts, etc.), stops, and/or other cable accessories. It is understood that other components may be included as well.

    [0091] FIGS. 21-25 illustrate another embodiment of a weight rack assembly 10 that includes a weight rack 11 configured as a half rack, with fewer vertical frame members 12A than the weight rack 11 of FIGS. 1-20, but could alternately be configured as a power rack such as shown in FIGS. 1-20. The weight rack assembly 10 of FIGS. 21-25 includes a weightlifting machine 30 that includes some of the components of the weightlifting machine 30 of FIGS. 1-20. The weightlifting machine 30 of FIGS. 21-25 has a belt squat input cable 95 and a lat pull input cable 96 configured to provide a belt squat input point 33B and a lat pull input point 33C with 1:1 mechanical advantages, and does not have any adjustable input points or associated pulleys and cables. The weightlifting machine 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 21-25 is also not provided with the counterweight mechanism 100, because it includes no additional cable(s) that may need to be counterweighted to avoid slack.

    [0092] The weight rack 11 in the embodiment of FIGS. 21-25 includes a plurality of vertical and horizontal frame members 12A, 12B, as well as two angled frame members 12C and a central longitudinal frame member 12D, and a horizontal support member 12E configured similarly to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. The weight source 31 in the embodiment of FIGS. 21-25 is a carriage 70 mounted on a carriage support 71, which are configured similarly to the carriage 70 of FIGS. 1-20, with similar engaging and supporting structures. For example, the carriage support 71 in the embodiment of FIGS. 21-25 includes a base 72 affixed to the horizontal support member 12E of the weight rack 11 and resting on the ground surface, and a track or guide in the form of a rail 73 that extends vertically upward from the base 72, on which the carriage 70 travels, with stops 77 near the bottom of the rail 73. The weightlifting machine 30 also includes a platform 82 and a locking mechanism including a pivoting body 84 with a locking member 85, configured similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20, again with similar supporting structures.

    [0093] The cable system 32 in FIGS. 21-25 is routed differently from the cable system 32 in FIGS. 1-20, and includes a belt squat input cable 95 and a lat pull input cable 96 configured to provide a belt squat input point 33B and a lat pull input point 33C with 1:1 mechanical advantages. The belt squat input cable 95 runs from the belt squat input point 33B through the slot 83 in the platform 82, to a belt squat pulley 86 below the slot 83, which redirects the cable 95 to a lower central pulley 62, which directs the cable 95 upward through the cavity 81 of the rail 73 to the lower wheel of a peanut pulley 97 that is located within the cavity 81 and travels within the cavity 81. The peanut pulley 97 directs the belt squat input cable 95 back downward through the rail 73 to a second lower central pulley 87, and to a fixed end 64 fixed to the base 72. The lower central pulley 62 and the second lower central pulley 87 are mounted on the base 72. The lat pull input point 96 is routed from the lat pull input point 33C through a lat pull pulley 68, to a first upper central pulley 88A, which directs the cable 96 downward into the cavity 81 of the rail 73, to the upper wheel of the peanut pulley 97. The peanut pulley 97 directs the lat pull input cable 96 back upward through the rail 73 to a second upper central pulley 88B, and the cable 96 passes between the second upper central pulley 88B and a third upper central pulley 88C and extends downward behind the rail 73 to fixedly connect to the carriage 70. The carriage 70 in this embodiment has a connection 80 located at the center of the weight mount 74 for connection to the cable system 32, but the connection 80 may be positioned elsewhere in other configurations. The three upper central pulleys 88A, 88B, 88C are all mounted on the rail cap 94 at the top of the rail 73, which provides a pulley mount. In this configuration, force exerted at the lat pull input point 33C is transferred to the carriage 70 via the lat pull input cable 96 to lift the carriage 70 with a 1:1 mechanical advantage. Additionally, in this configuration, force exerted at the belt squat input point 33B is transferred to the lat pull input cable 96 via the belt squat input cable 95 and the peanut pulley 97, and is thereby transferred to the carriage 70 to lift the carriage 70 with a 1:1 mechanical advantage.

    [0094] FIGS. 26-32 illustrate another embodiment of a weight rack assembly 10 that includes a weight rack 11 and a weightlifting machine 30 as disclosed in FIGS. 1-20, with a low row assembly 110 connected to the weight rack 11 to convert the belt squat input point 33B to a low row input point 33D. The low row assembly 110 is shown connected to the weight rack 11 and weightlifting machine 30 disclosed in FIGS. 1-20, and the low row assembly 110 is also suitable for use with the weight rack 11 and the weightlifting machine 30 of FIGS. 21-25. In other embodiments, the low row assembly 110 may alternately be used with other weight racks 11 and weightlifting machines 30, including those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/055,385, filed Feb. 17, 2025, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

    [0095] The low row assembly 110 may be releasably connected to the weight rack 11 and the cable system 32. In the embodiment of FIGS. 26-32, the low row assembly 110 connects to the second input cable 60, and it is understood that the low row assembly 110 may be connected to the belt squat input cable 95 if connected to the weight rack 11 of FIGS. 21-25. The low row assembly 110 may be easily disconnected to allow a user to change exercises quickly and offer additional functionality to the weight rack assembly 10. In one embodiment, the low row assembly 110 may be connected to one or more of the frame members of the support frame 89 supporting the platform 82, as described in greater detail herein. The low row assembly 110 in one embodiment may include a foot rest 115 and a pulley 111 positioned adjacent to the foot rest 115. The pulley 111 is positioned rearward from (i.e., toward the platform 82) and above the foot rest 115 in the embodiment of FIGS. 26-32, but the pulley 111 may be positioned in a different location in other embodiments, such as below the foot rest 115 and/or in line with or in front of the foot rest 115. In another embodiment, the low row assembly 110 may include multiple pulleys 111, such as a double pulley configuration with the second input cable 60 passing between the pulleys 111.

    [0096] The low row assembly 110 may further include a mounting bracket 120 for connection to the weight rack 11 and a support frame 116 connecting the mounting bracket 120 to the foot rest 115. The mounting bracket 120 in FIGS. 26-32 has a horizontally oriented portion 122 and a vertically oriented portion 124, which are connected such that the horizontally oriented portion 122 extends rearwardly from the top of the vertically oriented portion 124. The pulley 111 in this embodiment is mounted on a pulley mount 117 that is connected to the horizontally oriented portion 122 of the mounting bracket 120 and to the support frame 116. The support frame 116 in the embodiment of FIGS. 26-32 also engages and rests on the ground surface or other supporting surface. It is understood that the foot rest 115 is adjustably connected to the support frame 116 in this embodiment, but may be fixedly connected in other embodiments. In this configuration, the foot rest 115 is connected to an extension member 118 of the support frame 116 that is positioned within the beam 114 of the support frame 116 and is slidable within the beam 114 to change the distance of the foot rest 115 from the mounting bracket 120. The low row assembly 110 may also include a locking mechanism, such as a pop pin 119 that engages the extension member 118 in a plurality of different locking positions, e.g., by selectively engaging a plurality of holes or detents (not shown) in the extension member 118.

    [0097] FIGS. 30-32 illustrate the releasable connection of the low row assembly 110 to the weight rack 11. In this embodiment, the weight rack 11 has a mounting plate 112 connected to the support frame 89 supporting the platform 82 and/or to a side of the platform 82 itself. The mounting plate 112 may have one or more upper holes 121 to receive a fastener or other mechanical connector to fixedly connect the mounting plate 112 to the weight rack 11. The mounting plate 112 also includes one or more apertures 113 each having an upper portion 123 that is larger than a lower portion 125, creating a keyhole shape. It is understood that the upper portion 123 may be referred to as an enlarged portion, and the lower portion 125 may be referred to as a smaller portion, and in other embodiments, the enlarged portion 123 and the smaller portion 125 may be oriented differently relative to each other.

    [0098] The vertically oriented portion 124 of the bracket 120 may include one or more pins 126 for connection to the mounting plate 112, each having an enlarged end piece 127. Each pin 126 may be received in a corresponding aperture 113. When mounting the low row assembly 110, each pin 126 may be inserted through in the upper portion 123 of the corresponding aperture 113 and then lowered into the lower portion 125 of the aperture 113. The upper portion 123 of the aperture 113 is large enough to accommodate passage of the enlarged end piece 127 of the pin 126, and the lower portion 125 is smaller than the enlarged end piece 127. In addition, each pin 126 may include a groove 129 within or behind the enlarged end piece 127 that receives a portion of the mounting bracket 120 to secure the low row assembly 110 to the platform. In this configuration, when the pin 126 is received in the lower portion 125 of the aperture 113, the portion of the mounting plate 112 defining the lower portion 125 fits within the groove 129, and the mounting plate 112 engages the enlarged end piece 127 to retain the pin 126 in the aperture 113. When the low row assembly 110 installed onto the platform, a bottom surface of the horizontal oriented portion 122 of the mounting bracket 120 may rest on a top surface of the platform 82 to provide additional stability. Additional or alternate connection structures may be used in other embodiments.

    [0099] Once the low row assembly 110 is secured to the platform, a user may pull the end of the second input cable 60 that extends through the slot 83 and route it to the pulley 111. It is understood that the connector 34 and/or the stop (if present) may be removed to permit insertion of the end of the second input cable 60 through the pulley mount 117, and then reconnected after insertion. A user may then connect a handle (not shown) or other user engaging member to the connector 34 at the low row input point 33D to perform a rowing exercise. It is understood that other exercises may be performed using the low row input point 33D as well. To remove the low row assembly 110, the second input cable 60 is removed from the pulley 111 and the pulley housing 117, and the low row assembly 110 can be lifted and then moved forward (away from the mounting plate 112) to disengage the pins 126 from the apertures 113. Thus, the low row assembly 110 permits the second input cable 60 to be selectively configured in at least a first or belt squat configuration as described herein, and a second or low row configuration by selectively engaging the second input cable 60 with the low row pulley 111 of the low row pulley assembly 110.

    [0100] Further, the weightlifting assembly 10 of FIGS. 26-32 may include a box squat assembly 150 that can be releasably engaged with the weight rack 11 and positioned over the low row assembly 110, as shown in FIGS. 33-34. The box squat assembly 150 is configured to be positioned over the low row assembly 110 in this embodiment, but the box squat assembly 150 may alternately be positionable over a differently configured pulley assembly, which may or may not require a change in the dimensions and/or configuration of the box squat assembly 150. The box squat assembly 150 may allow a user to perform a box squat exercise when utilizing the weightlifting machine 30 from the low row input point 33D. The box squat assembly 150 may include a seat 152, a frame including a pair of movable frame members 154 and a pair of fixed frame members 156 forming a base for resting on the ground or other supporting surface. The movable frame members 154 are connected to the seat 152 and may be moveably connected to the fixed frame members 156 to allow a user to adjust the height of the seat 152. The fixed frame members 156 may rest on the ground or other supporting surface, and in one embodiment, may include structures for fixedly connecting the box squat assembly 150 to the weight rack 11, e.g., by connection to the platform 82. The box squat assembly 150 in one embodiment further includes an adjustment mechanism 158 that may be engaged and disengaged with the movable frame members 154 to allow a user to adjust the height of the seat 152. For example, as shown in FIGS. 33-34, the adjustment mechanism 158 may include pop pins 159 that are each engaged with one of the fixed frame members 156 and one of the moveable frame members 154 to adjustably engage the moveable frame members 154 in a plurality of different positions with respect the fixed frame members 156. The box squat assembly 150 further includes a roller 151 at the front of the seat 152, to engage the second input cable 60 as it is pulled upward from the low row input point 33D during a box squat exercise. The box squat assembly 150 is shown positioned over the low row assembly 110 in FIGS. 33-34, and it is understood that the box squat assembly 150 in this configuration will also extend over a portion of the platform 82. In this embodiment, the bottoms of the fixed frame members 156 can extend under the platform 82, and the rear sides of the moveable frame members 154 have cut-outs 157 to permit the moveable frame members 154 and the seat 152 to extend partially over the platform 82.

    [0101] Various embodiments of weight rack assemblies, weight racks, and weightlifting machines have been described herein, which include various components and features. In other embodiments, the weight rack assemblies, weight racks, and weightlifting machines may be provided with any combination of such components and features. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the various devices, components, and features of the weight rack assemblies, weight racks, and weightlifting machines described herein may be constructed with similar structural and functional elements having different configurations, including different ornamental appearances.

    [0102] Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The terms top, bottom, front, back, side, rear, proximal, distal, and the like, as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of this invention, unless explicitly specified by the claims. When used in description of a method or process, the term providing (or variations thereof) as used herein means generally making an article available for further actions, and does not imply that the entity providing the article manufactured, assembled, or otherwise produced the article. The term approximately as used herein implies a variation of up to 10% of the nominal value modified by such term, or up to 10% of a midpoint value of a range modified by such term. Integral joining technique, as used herein, means a technique for joining two pieces so that the two pieces effectively become a single, integral piece, including, but not limited to, irreversible joining techniques such as welding, brazing, soldering, or the like, where separation of the joined pieces cannot be accomplished without structural damage thereto. Additionally, the term plurality, as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying claims.