EXERCISE APPARATUS

Abstract

Examples of the present disclosure are directed to an exercise apparatus that provides a comprehensive full-body workout. The exercise apparatus can be incorporated into exercises for the upper body, lower body, and core, allowing the user to engage multiple muscles and achieve efficient, time-saving workouts. The exercise apparatus comprises a generally flat base having a plurality of caster assemblies secured to a bottom surface of the flat base, the flat base is separable into two sections allowing for the user to utilize each section separately or together. To use the exercise apparatus, the user places his or her hands or feet onto each section of the flat base and performs various exercises such as lunges, squats, push-ups, and planks. Using the exercise apparatus with these exercises increases the challenge by introducing an element of instability, thus making them more effective in building strength, endurance, and muscle definition.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to an exercise apparatus suitable for resistance training, balance training, stability training, or combinations thereof.

BACKGROUND

Improving core strength is crucial for overall physical health and performance. The core muscles, which include the abdominals, obliques, lower back, and deep stabilizing muscles, play a fundamental role in supporting and stabilizing the spine, pelvis, and trunk of an individual.

There are many reasons why it is important for an individual to improve his or her core strength. A strong core provides stability and balance to the body while a weak core can lead to poor posture and biomechanics, which can contribute to a range of injuries. Strengthening the core muscles enhances the body's ability to withstand external forces, stabilize joints, and maintain proper alignment, reducing the risk of injuries.

A strong core can also improve performance in sports and fitness as almost all physical activities rely on a strong core. It is also vital for everyday movements and functional fitness. It supports proper posture, spinal alignment, and body mechanics, enabling an individual to perform daily activities with ease and efficiency.

A strong core can also help reduce back pain. Weak core muscles are often associated with lower back pain and strengthening the core helps stabilize the spine and alleviate stress on the lower back. Strong core muscles provide support to the spine and promote optimal spinal alignment, reducing the risk of back pain and improving overall spinal health.

A strong core also helps maintain good posture, both when stationary and during movement. Weak core muscles can contribute to slouching, rounded shoulders, and an anterior pelvic tilt, leading to postural imbalances and discomfort. By strengthening the core, you can promote proper alignment and posture, reducing the strain on your spine and improving overall body mechanics.

Maintaining core strength becomes increasingly important for maintaining functional independence and a high quality of life. A strong core helps with activities such as getting up from a chair, carrying groceries, and maintaining balance, ensuring you can continue to perform daily tasks and activities without limitations.

In view of the above, what is needed is an exercise apparatus that engages an individual's core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, and lower back, to a greater extent than traditional exercises.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations in order to provide a basic understanding of some implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

According to one example, an exercise apparatus is provided. The exercise apparatus comprises a flat base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; a plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base; a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; and a second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section. The flat base comprises a first base section; and a second base section, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism.

According to one aspect, the connecting mechanism is a snap-fit mechanism.

According to another aspect, the connecting mechanism comprises one or more protruding tabs and one or more recesses; wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; and wherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.

According to yet another aspect, the connecting mechanism is a tongue and groove mechanism.

According to yet another aspect, the first strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the first strap to the first base section.

According to yet another aspect, the second strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the second strap to the second base section.

According to yet another aspect, the first and second straps are made of a hook and loop fastener.

According to yet another aspect, the flat base is made of high-density polyethylene.

According to yet another aspect, the top surface of the first base section includes a hand grip.

According to yet another aspect, the top surface of the second base section includes a hand grip.

According to another example, an exercise apparatus is provided. The exercise apparatus includes a base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; a plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base; a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; and a second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section. The flat base includes a first base section having a first indentation on the top surface; and a second base section having a second indentation on the top surface, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism.

According to another aspect, the connecting mechanism is a snap-fit mechanism.

According to yet another aspect, the connecting mechanism comprises one or more flexible protruding tabs and one or more recesses; wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; and wherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.

According to yet another aspect, the first strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the first strap to the first base section.

According to yet another aspect, the second strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the second strap to the second base section.

According to yet another aspect, the first and second straps are made of a hook and loop fastener.

According to another example, an exercise apparatus is provided. The exercise apparatus includes a base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base; a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; and a second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section. The flat base includes a first base section having a first indentation on the top surface; and a second base section having a second indentation on the top surface, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism; wherein the connecting mechanism comprises one or more protruding tabs and one or more recesses; wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; and wherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a top, front perspective view of an exercise apparatus, according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a top, side perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 separated into a first base section and a second base section.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the first base section of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the second base section of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up view of a connecting mechanism for detachably connecting the first base section to the second base section.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom, front perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the described implementations. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the implementations may be practiced without these specific details. For example, certain aspects may be illustrated with simplified representations in order not to obscure the implementations in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known techniques may be shown in broad block form in order not to obscure the described implementations.

Terms

“Comprise” and variations, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. “A”,” “an,” and “the” and similar referents used herein are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless their usage in context indicates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or example described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other examples or implementations. Likewise, “examples” does not require that all examples include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.

“Aspects” do not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed features, advantages, or modes of operation.

“Coupled” is used herein to means the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches or couples to object B, and object B touches or couples to object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another, even if they do not directly physically touch each other.

The term “fastener” or “fastening member” may refer to any type of device for connecting metal, plastic, and other materials in common hardware construction, including screws, bolts, nuts, washers, rivets, cotter pins, clevis pins, studs, threaded rods, and other mechanical connectors.

The term “hole” may refer to any opening through a structure and/or component or a hollowed-out place in a structure and/or component, including apertures, bores, cavities, chambers, grooves, notches, passages, slits, and slots.

The terms “protrusion” or “protruding tabs” may refer to objects or parts projecting in an outward manner from a structure and/or component.

The term “locking mechanism” may refer to any type of mechanism for connecting two pieces together, including but not limited to, a snap-fit mechanism, hooks, clasps, and tongue and groove.

The term “connecting mechanism” may refer to a hardware device that mechanically joins or affixes two or more objects together. For example, a connecting mechanism may be used to create non-permanent joints, e.g., joints that can be removed or dismantled without damaging the joining components. Non-limiting examples of connecting mechanisms include screws, pins, clasps, clamps, buttons, interference fits, flange mechanisms, press-fit systems, tongue and groove mechanisms, snap fit mechanisms, and/or tabs, among others.

The term “indentation” may refer to a depression, impression, dent, recess, cavity, or pit located in a generally flat surface or base.

Overview

Examples of the present disclosure are directed to an exercise apparatus that provides a comprehensive full-body workout. The exercise apparatus can be incorporated into exercises for the upper body, lower body, and core, allowing the user to engage multiple muscles and achieve efficient, time-saving workouts. The exercise apparatus comprises a generally flat base having a plurality of caster assemblies secured to a bottom surface of the flat base, the flat base is separable into two sections allowing for the user to utilize each section separately or together. To use the exercise apparatus, the user places his or her hands or feet onto each section of the flat base and performs various exercises such as lunges, squats, push-ups, and planks. Using the exercise apparatus with these exercises increases the challenge by introducing an element of instability, thus making them more effective in building strength, endurance, and muscle definition.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top, front perspective view of an exercise apparatus, according to one example of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates a top, side perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 illustrates the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 separated into a first base section and a second base section. FIG. 5 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the first base section of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 illustrates a top, rear perspective view of the second base section of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up view of a connecting mechanism for detachably connecting the first base section to the second base section. FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom, front perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1. The following discussion refers interchangeably to FIGS. 1-9.

Turning to FIG. 1, an exercise apparatus 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is provided. The exercise apparatus 100 includes a generally flat base 102 having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface. The generally flat base 102 comprises a first base section 102a and a second base section 102b, where the first base section 102a is separable or detachable from the second base section 102b and connected together by a connecting or locking mechanism 104, such as interlocking components. Each section of flat base 102 retains its own structural integrity and functionality and may be identical in size and shape or have slightly different dimensions. When separated, the first and section base sections 102a, 102b can be conveniently transported or stored in smaller spaces. According to one example, the material of the generally flat base may be of high-density polyethylene, although any material known in the art may be utilized. According to one example, the generally flat base 102 may have a generally oval configuration, however, this is by way of example only.

To detach the generally flat base 102 into the first and second base sections 102a, 102b, a user releases, detaches, or unlocks the connecting or locking mechanism 104. Once unlocked, the first and section base sections 102a, 102b can be easily separated, creating two separate sections that may be used separately or together. As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the connecting or locking mechanism may be a snap-fit mechanism that is used to join and separate the first and second base sections 102a, 102b. The snap-fit mechanism uses a combination of flexibility and shape to create a secure connection. Each of the first and second base sections 102a, 102b may include one or more protruding tabs or ribs 104a and one or more corresponding recesses or slots 104b. The protruding tabs of the first base section 102a are received into the recesses of the second base section 102b and the protruding tabs of the second base section 102b are received into the recesses of the first base section 102a. By applying pressure or deformation to the flexible components (i.e. protruding tabs or ribs) of the snap-fit mechanism, the protruding tabs snap into the recesses, creating a firm and secure interlock. Although a snap-fit mechanism is shown, this is by way of example only and any type of locking mechanism known in the art may be utilized, such as hooks, clasps, and tongue and groove.

One or more caster assemblies 106 may be located on the bottom surfaces of the first and second base sections 102a, 102b. The bottom surfaces of the first and second base sections 102a, 102b may include a plurality of holes for coupling or mounting the caster assemblies 106 to the bottom surfaces. Fasteners, such as threaded screws, pass through the plurality of holes and thread into the first and second base sections 102a, 102b to secure the caster assemblies 106 to the bottom surfaces of the first and second base sections 102a, 102b. While five (5) caster assemblies are shown around the outer edge of the bottom surface of each base section 102a, 102b, this is by way of example only and each base section 102a, 102b may have more than five (5) caster assemblies 106 or less than five (5) caster assemblies 106. Although the first and second base sections 102a, 102b are shown with the same number of caster assemblies 106, this is by way of example only and the first and second base sections 102a, 102b may have a different number of caster assemblies 106. Although caster assemblies 106 are shown, any type of wheel, hardware, or device that allows the exercise apparatus to travel, glide, or move along a ground surface may be utilized.

The exercise apparatus 100 may further include straps 108 for securing the hands or feet of a user to the top surface of the flat base 102. Each strap 108 may be adjustable and provide support and stability for the hand when attached to a top surface of the generally flat base 102. It may be made of a durable and flexible material such as nylon or neoprene, ensuring both strength and comfort. In one example, each strap 108 may comprise a long, flat band that can be wrapped around the hand and fastened securely. It is typically wide enough to distribute pressure evenly and reduce discomfort during use. The inner side of each strap 108 may feature a soft, padded lining to enhance comfort and prevent friction against the skin. To accommodate different hand sizes and ensure a snug fit, each strap 108 may incorporate an adjustable mechanism. The mechanism may include a buckle, hook and loop fasteners (such as Velcro), or a combination of both allowing for easy tightening or loosening of the strap 108 according to the user's preference. According to one example, each strap 108 may extend through a pair of slots located in the flat base 102 securing each strap 108 to the flat base 102. FIG. 8 illustrates the pair of straps 108 extending through slots and on the bottom surface of the flat base 102.

Each of the straps 108 adjustability allows for a customizable fit, accommodating hands of various sizes and shapes. It ensures a secure grip and prevents slipping or unwanted movement of the hand during use. Additionally, the adjustable feature enables the strap to be shared among different users or adjusted for different activities or positions.

According to one example, the top surface of the first and second base sections 102a, 102b of the flat base may include handprints for guiding or instructing the user where to place his or her hands. The handprints may be an image on the flat base 102 or may be a slip grip to keep the hands of the user from slipping off the flat base 102.

According to one example, the generally flat base 102 may have indentations for a user to place his or her hands or feet on the generally flat base 102.

While the foregoing disclosure shows illustrative aspects, it should be noted that various changes and modifications could be made herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. The functions, steps and/or actions of the method claims in accordance with the aspects described herein need not be performed in any particular order. Furthermore, although elements of aspects disclosed herein may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.

Aspects described in connection with a given description, illustration, representation, or method may be substituted for aspects described in a different description, illustration, representation, or method.

The previous description of the disclosed examples is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the aspects described herein. Various modifications to these examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel aspects disclosed herein.

Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular examples of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification.

Claims

1. An exercise apparatus comprising: a flat base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, the flat base comprising: a first base section; anda second base section, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism;a plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base;a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; anda second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section.

2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connecting mechanism is a snap-fit mechanism.

3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connecting mechanism comprises one or more protruding tabs and one or more recesses; wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; and wherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.

4. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connecting mechanism is a tongue and groove mechanism.

5. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the first strap to the first base section.

6. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the second strap to the second base section.

7. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second straps are made of a hook and loop fastener.

8. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flat base is made of high-density polyethylene.

9. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the first base section includes a hand grip.

10. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the second base section includes a hand grip.

11. An exercise apparatus comprising: a base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, the flat base comprising: a first base section having a first indentation on the top surface; anda second base section having a second indentation on the top surface, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism;a plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base;a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; anda second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section.

12. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the connecting mechanism is a snap-fit mechanism.

13. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the connecting mechanism comprises one or more flexible protruding tabs and one or more recesses; wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; and wherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.

14. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the first strap to the first base section.

15. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second strap extends through a pair of slots in the flat base securing the second strap to the second base section.

16. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first and second straps are made of a hook and loop fastener.

17. An exercise apparatus comprising: a base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, the flat base comprising: a first base section having a first indentation on the top surface; anda second base section having a second indentation on the top surface, the second base section detachably secured to the first base section by a connecting mechanism;a plurality of caster assemblies secured to the bottom surface of the flat base;a first strap secured to the top surface of the first base section; anda second strap secured to the top surface of the second base section; andwherein the connecting mechanism comprises one or more protruding tabs and one or more recesses;wherein the one or more protruding tabs of the first base section are received in the one or more recesses of the second base section; andwherein one or more protruding tabs of the second base section are received in the one or more recesses of the first base section.