Exercise Apparatus for Performing a Gluteal Bridge Movement

This application claims priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/302,142, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 11,633,645, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 11,130,018, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 10,610,729, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 10,226,665, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/563,456 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/505,542, all of which are incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof.

This disclosure relates to an exercise apparatus for performing a gluteal bridge movement. In particular, the exercise apparatus is configurable to allow a person to properly perform a resisted gluteal bridge on a repeated basis and where the resistance increases the amount of work to be performed by the person during the exercise.

Muscles of the human posterior hip, or gluteal muscles, are critical for the task of locomotion. Healthy and/or well-developed gluteal muscles are a key factor in maintaining the strength and health of a person's lower back, hips and knees. Conversely, unhealthy and/or under-developed gluteal muscles have been identified as a significant cause of a number of conditions, including patellar alignment problems, iliotibial (IT) band pathology, and mechanical lower back pain.

An exercise technique referred to as a “gluteal bridge,” which is also commonly referred to as a “glute bridge” or “hip thrust,” has been developed to strengthen gluteal muscles. The gluteal bridge is a complex movement because it requires the person to perform multiple movements in a specific sequence. The gluteal bridge is typically performed when a person, user or individual is in the supine position on the ground or on a mat where the person's the hips and knees are flexed while the lower back is pressed flat on the ground. The person then performs a pelvic tilt, whereby the pelvis is moved or “rolled” toward the posterior and the lower back flattens. With the pelvic tilt engaged, the person then raises his or her buttocks and shifts weight to the feet and an area of the upper thorax located at the inferior aspect of the person's scapulae. When properly performing the gluteal bridge exercise, the person moves only at the hips, without bending the spine. Also, when a person performs the gluteal bridge in this manner, it is commonly referred to as an “unresisted” exercise since no external resistance is being applied during the complex movement.

As an individual becomes proficient at the basic gluteal bridge, the gluteal muscles become stronger. Various forms of resistance may be added to the gluteal bridge movement to increase the load on the gluteal muscles and other muscles. Safely increasing the load on the gluteal muscles is an important step in building overall muscular strength, endurance, power and girth. When resistance, e.g, in the form of an elastically deformable band, or some form of weight resistance such as a barbell, weight plate or dumbbell is applied to the exercise it is referred to as a “resisted gluteal bridge.”

Past attempts to provide a resisted gluteal bridge include the use of additional devices, such as stretching a strongly-resistive elastic resistance band across a lower portion of a person's abdomen, along with contorting the person's knees to a severe angle to position the pelvis low enough to properly affix the elastic resistance band. Some attempts require the person to maneuver between a seat and a lower leg pad prior to initiating the exercise, creating dangers to the person, especially when he or she becomes fatigued. Other attempts require the person to press against a bare metal bar, typically while adding some form of an external pad, with their abdomen and contort their body to slide under the bar before initiating the gluteal bridge exercise. Further attempts require the use of hand-held free weights and a free-standing bench, presenting issues pertaining to the stability, strength and sliding resistance of the bench along a ground surface. Still further attempts rely on the compromised directional stability and support of an exercise ball. Even further attempts rely on the use of a smith machine, which creates a movement pathway that forces the user to move in an undesired vertical path (i.e., straight up and down) motion rather than a proper curvilinear path. The use of these additional devices to perform a resisted gluteal bridge causes numerous problems that reduce the effectiveness of the exercise while exposing the person trying to perform the exercise to potential injury. For example, these conventional resisted gluteal bridge exercises do not properly support the lumbar spine throughout the exercise's range of motion. Accordingly, these conventional exercises force the lumbar spine into a position of hyperextension, particularly at an end range of motion of the exercise which places significant pressure on a user's facet joints. This pressure is undesirable because it is a noted cause of lower back pain. Additionally, these conventional resisted gluteal bridge exercises do not allow the user to perform a resisted gluteal bridge with only one leg at a time, or a resisted gluteal bridge with alternating legs because the weight shifts in an uncontrolled and manner across the user's pelvis, which may cause the user to fall or become injured.

Accordingly, there has been a long-standing, unmet need for an exercise apparatus specifically designed to allow a person to properly perform a resisted gluteal bridge to improve the strength of a person's human posterior hip and gluteal muscles.

The present disclosure provides an exercise apparatus specifically designed to allow a person or user to perform a gluteal bridge, typically with resistance, to improve the strength of a person's human posterior hip and gluteal muscles. The exercise apparatus can be configured for use in different environments—namely, in a gym, fitness center or training facility, in a spa or studio, or in a home gym. In its different versions, the exercise apparatus facilitates the performance of a resisted gluteal bridge in a safe, controlled and efficient manner while the person lies on a bench of the apparatus. In use, the person lies along the length of the bench instead of perpendicular to the bench. Due to the added support of the bench under the length of the person's spine, the exercise apparatus protects the person's spine by maintaining the lumbar spine in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, and also allows the motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the person's hip joints. Maintaining the lumbar spine in the neutral position and concentrating motion at the hip joints (i) eliminates any undesirable accessory movement in the spine, where accessory movement is movement created between the various segments of the user's spine, including at the facet joints or between the vertebral bodies, and (ii) improves the overall effectiveness of the resisted gluteal bridge exercise performed on the apparatus. Due to its unique configuration, the exercise apparatus also protects the user's pelvic bones from pressure that occurs when a heavy weight plate, barbell or dumbbells are placed across the upper portion of the user's hips, as done with conventional attempts to perform resisted gluteal bridges.

In one implementation, the exercise apparatus for performing a resisted gluteal bridge movement is intended for use in a gym, fitness center or training facility. The exercise apparatus generally comprises (i) a support assembly with a frame assembly and a deck assembly; (ii) a bench assembly; and, (iii) a resistance assembly, such as a weight stack operably connected to the bench assembly by a resistance member, such as a cable. The exercise apparatus is designed to be placed on a planar support surface or floor within the gym, fitness center or training facility. The user or person selects a level of resistance on the resistance assembly, secures himself/herself to the bench assembly and then performs at least one repetition of the resisted gluteal bridge movement. Typically, the user performs multiple repetitions of the resisted gluteal bridge movement as part of his/her training regimen. The configuration of the exercise apparatus for use in a peripheral gym environment, a spa or studio omits the weight stack but retains a resistance member, such as an elastically deformable band. The configuration of the exercise apparatus for use in a home gym also omits the weight stack while retaining the resistance member, and includes additional functionality, including the bench assembly being securable in a substantially horizontal position and the apparatus being collapsible to facilitate storage when not in use.

Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

While this disclosure includes a number of details and implementations in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail particular implementations with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosed methods and systems, and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the disclosed concepts to the implementations illustrated.

This disclosure relates to an exercise apparatus specifically designed to allow a person or user to perform a gluteal bridge, typically with resistance, to improve the strength of a person's human posterior hip and gluteal muscles., show versions of the exercise apparatusfor use in different environments—namely, in a gym, fitness center or training facility, in a spa or studio, or in a home gym. In its different versions, the exercise apparatus facilitates the performance of a resisted gluteal bridge in a safe, controlled and efficient manner while the person lies on a bench of the apparatus. In use, the person lies along the length of the bench instead of perpendicular to the bench. Due to the added support of the bench under the length of the person's spine, the exercise apparatus protects the person's spine by maintaining the lumbar spine in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, and also allows the motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the person's hip joints. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae labeled L1 through L5, and it is situated between the thoracic spine and the sacrum. Maintaining the lumbar spine in the neutral position and concentrating motion at the hip joints eliminates any accessory movement, as defined above in the Summary section, through the entire spine while improving the overall effectiveness of the resisted gluteal bridge exercise performed on the apparatus. Due to its unique configuration, the exercise apparatus also protects the user's pelvic bones from pressure that occurs when a heavy weight plate, barbell or dumbbells are placed across the upper portion of the user's hips, as done with conventional attempts to perform resisted gluteal bridges.

depict a first embodiment of the apparatusfor performing a resisted gluteal bridge movement that is configured for a heavy-use environment, such as in a gym, fitness center or training facility. The exercise apparatusgenerally comprises (i) a support assemblywith a frame assemblyand a deck assembly; (ii) a bench assembly; and, (iii) a resistance assembly. The exercise apparatusis designed to be placed on a planar support surface or floor F within the gym, fitness center or training facility. As described in greater detail below, the user or person selects a level of resistance on the resistance assembly, secures himself/herself to the bench assemblyand then performs at least one repetition of the resisted gluteal bridge movement. Typically, the user performs multiple repetitions of the resisted gluteal bridge movement as part of his/her training regimen.

Referring toand as mentioned above, the support assemblyincludes the frame assemblyand the deck assembly. The frame assemblycomprises a primary or central memberand two side members—first side memberand second side memberthat extend via a transition memberfrom the primary member. As seen in the bottom view of, the transition memberis oriented at an angle to the primary member such that the primary memberand the side members,are substantially parallel to each other. A front memberextends between and connects the primary memberand the first and second side members,. A rear memberextends from the primary member. As shown in, the rear memberis transverse to the primary membersuch that these two members are substantially perpendicular to each other. The front memberand the rear memberare shown as having a linear configuration so they provide cross member support, however, the front memberand/or rear membercan have a curvilinear configuration.

The frame assemblyalso includes a plurality of mounting feetthat engage the supporting floor F and that are configured to increase the stability of the apparatusduring usage. The mounting feetpreferably have an elastomeric composition and can compensate if the floor F that apparatusis placed upon is not level. In the embodiment of, a pair of mounting feetare affixed to the front memberand a pair of feetare affixed to the rear member. The frame assemblyfurther includes a rear vertical memberthat extends upward from the rear member. Alternatively, the rear vertical memberextends upward from a rear portion of the primary memberor the junction of both the rear memberand the primary member. An angled support memberextends between the rear vertical memberand the primary member. In the embodiment of, the angled memberextends from an upper portion of the vertical memberto an intermediate portion of the primary member.

The deck assemblycomprises an upper plate member, preferably horizontally arranged relative to the floor F, that extends over an extent of the primary memberand the side members,to define a cavitythere between (see). The deck assemblyis intended to be a low-profile structure to facilitate the user's U ingress and egress from the apparatus. As such, the plate memberis positioned close to the support surface or floor F upon which the apparatusis placed, where an upper surface of the plate memberand the floor F is less than 5 inches, preferably less than 4 inches and most preferably 3 inches. These dimensions represent the height of the plate memberto the floor F and include the mounting feet. An adjustable foot rest assemblyis connected to the deck assemblyand is configured to engage the feet of people using the apparatus. In the embodiment of, the foot rest assemblyslides along the upper surface of the plate membersuch that the distance between the foot rest assemblyand the bench assemblycan be varied by about 20 inches, and preferably 22 inches, to accommodate different sized people. The foot rest assemblyincludes a wall arrangementhaving a rear wall, opposed side walls, a top wall, a front wallextending between the side walls, and a bottom wallextending between the side walls(as best shown in). The front wallis configured to engage and support the feet of the person using the apparatus. Preferably, the front wallis angled, sloped or curved relative to the plate member. The front wallcan include means for enhancing the engagement with the person's feet, wherein the engagement means is textured treads, projections formed on the wall, or recess formed in the wall. As shown in, the wallis sloped and extends from the upper plate memberat an angle θ that is 130 to 150 degrees, preferably 145 degrees. Due to the low-profile configuration of the deck assembly, the top wallis positioned close to the supporting floor F, meaning that the top wallis within 10 inches, preferably within 9 inches and most preferably within 7.5 inches of the supporting floor F (where these dimensions include mounting feetsecured to the frame assembly). As such, the adjustable foot rest assemblydoes not compromise the user's U ingress and egress to the bench assembly.

The foot rest assemblyfurther includes a releasable adjustment mechanismthat allows for selective positioning of the foot rest assemblyalong the deck assembly. The adjustment mechanismincludes a pin, preferably spring-loaded, that extends through rear walland aperturesformed in the plate member. As shown in, the plate memberhas a plurality of substantially aligned aperturesthat are configured to receive a lower portion of the pin. A knobis affixed to an upper portion of the pinwhereby the person can grasp the knoband apply a substantially upward force thereby displacing the pinfrom its existing apertureand allow for repositioning of the foot rest assembly. Once the desired location of the foot rest assemblyis attained, the person can release the knobsuch the pinengages and is received by the apertureat the desired location.

The deck assemblyalso includes at least one railthat resides within the internal cavityand that operably supports the adjustable foot rest assembly. In the embodiment of, the deck assemblyincludes a pair of elongated rails, each rail extending between the front memberand an intermediate cross member, which itself extends between the primary memberand the side member,. The bottom wallof the foot rest assemblyis coupled by a plurality of elongated fasteners (e.g., bolts) to a projection (not shown) affixed to a collarthat is located within the cavityand that is in sliding engagement with the rail. In this manner, the collarhas an inner diameter that slightly exceed the outer diameter of the rail. The collarincludes an inner bushing that facilitates sliding movement between the collarand the rail. As shown in, the upper plate memberincludes at least one slotthat extends between the intermediate cross memberand the front member. The slotis dimensioned to accommodate the elongated fasteners that couple the collarto the foot rest assemblysuch that the fasteners can move freely within the slotas the foot rest assemblyis moved fore and aft along the plate memberto vary the distance between the foot rest assemblyand the bench assemblyin order to accommodate different sized people who desire to use the apparatus.

The bench assemblyof the exercise apparatuscomprises a bench, a bench support frame assemblyand a belt assembly. The benchhas a substantially rectangular configuration with internal pad member residing within an external housing. The belt assemblyincludes a first member, a second memberand a buckleto operably connect the first and second members,. The belt assemblyis operably connected by a couplerto the support frame assemblynear a lower endof the bench. As shown inand as explained below, the user secures the belt assemblyacross his/her lower abdomen before commencing the gluteal bride exercise. Unlike some conventional devices, the apparatusdoes not require additional structures above the bench assemblyand the belt assemblyto secure the user U to the bench, such as mechanical linkages or an elongated pad that extends across the user's abdominal region. The benchis affixed to the support frame assemblywhich includes side frame members, rear member, and intermediate cross member(see). Referring to, an elastomeric bumperis affixed to the frame assembly, preferably the angled member. The bumperis configured to engage the intermediate cross memberwhen the benchis lowered towards the angled memberwhile the user performs the gluteal bridge movement. In this manner the bumperprevents the benchfrom striking and potentially damaging the frame assembly, including the angled member, while various users perform gluteal bridge movements over prolonged periods of time. The bumperhas an overall height of at least 1.5 inches, and preferably 2.0 inches. Unlike some conventional devices, the apparatusincludes a single benchthat obviates the need for a secondary, typically lower, bench that assists a user with ingress and egress and/or further supports the user prior to and/or after the gluteal exercise movement.

The bench assemblyis pivotally connected to the frame assemblyto allow for pivotal movement of the benchand the bench support frame assemblyduring the user's performance of the gluteal bridge exercise. Referring to, the bench assemblyincludes at least one bearing assemblythat receives an extent of a rodextending through an upper portion of the vertical member. The bearing assemblyincludes an internal bearing setmounted within a housingthat extends downward from the bench support frame assembly. The bearing assemblyis preferably a pillow block bearing with a curvilinear housing. As shown in, there are two bearing assemblies, each extending downward from an extent of the side frame member. In this configuration, the rodextends from the vertical memberand an end segment of the rodextends through the bearing set. Also in this configuration, the vertical memberis positioned between the bearing assemblies. The roddefines a pivot point PP (see) where the bench assemblyis pivotally connected to the frame assemblyto allow for pivotal movement of the benchduring performance of the gluteal bridge exercise. The pivot point PP is in an elevated vertical position relative to: (i) the support surface upon which the apparatusrests, (ii) the deck plate member, (iii) an anchor point AP (as detailed below and shown in), and (iv) the foot rest assembly. This does not mean that the pivot point PP is directly above these other components; instead, the pivot point PP is located at a higher vertical elevation compared to these components. Accordingly, the vertical elevation of pivot point PP is greater than the anchor point AP, the deck plate memberand the foot rest assembly. In the embodiment of, when the apparatusis in the first position or ready to use position P, the engagement between the angled memberand the intermediate cross member, as provided by the bumper, and between the side frame memberand the vertical member, as provided by the bearing assembly, ensures that both the benchand the side frame memberare substantially parallel to the angled member. This positional arrangement improves the stability of the benchboth when the user lays on the benchto prior to securing the belt assemblyand beginning the first repetition of the gluteal bridge movement, and when the user is laying on the benchwhile performing gluteal bridge movements.

As shown in, the resistance assemblyof the exercise apparatuscomprises a cable, at least one pulley assemblyand a weight stacksupported by a frame assembly. The resistance assemblyprovides a resistance force that the user U must overcome, in addition to the effects of gravity, in order to pivotally move the benchfrom a first position (see) to a second position (see) about the pivot point. Referring to, a couplerpivotally secures the first endof the cableto an anchor mechanismextending downward from a support plate(see) affixed to a lower surface of the bench assembly, namely the bench support frame assemblyand/or the bench. The anchor mechanismcomprises a pair of flangesseparated by a rodto which the coupleris pivotally connected. In this manner, the coupleris pivotally connected to the rodbetween the flanges, wherein the roddefines an anchor point AP. The anchor point AP is in an elevated vertical position relative to: (i) the support surface upon which the apparatusrests, (ii) the deck plate member, and (iii) the first pulley. The anchor point AP is generally in the same vertical position as the foot rest assembly. The anchor point AP is in a lower vertical position relative to the pivot point PP. This does not mean that the anchor point AP is aligned directly above or directly below these other components; instead, the anchor point AP is located at different vertical elevations compared to these components. Accordingly, the vertical elevation of anchor point AP is between the pivot point PP and the deck plate member.

During the gluteal bridge movement, there is pivotal movement of the couplerand the cableabout the anchor point AP as the benchis elevated and lowered by the user. A first pulley assemblyis located at the lower end of the angled membernear its junction with the central member. The cableis routed along the wheelof the first pulleythat is rotatably supported by a housingpositioned proximate the central member. The first pulleyis oriented such that the cableextends past the wheeland through an internal cavityof the central memberto a second pulley assemblylocated at the base of the weight stack frame assembly. As shown in, the internal cavityhas dimensions large enough that the pindoes not make contact with the cablewhen the user actuates the release mechanism. The cableextends from the second pulleyto a third pulley assemblythat resides within an upper extent of the weight stack frame assembly. In this manner, the cableis routed around the wheelof the third pulley assembly. The arrangement of the first, second and third pulleys,,provide a path of travel for the cablethat is substantially linear. A second endof the cableis operably secured to the weight stackby a connector. This connectorcouples the second cable endto an elongated rodthat extends through the weighted platesthat comprise the weight stack, wherein the user can selectively chose the number and quantity of platesthat provide resistance during the performance of the resisted gluteal bridge exercise. The rodincludes apertures that are cooperatively positioned with apertures formed through the plates, wherein the user can insert a pinthrough the platesand into the rodto select the amount of weighted resistance during the performance of the resisted gluteal bridge exercises. The rodis flanked by a pair of guide poststhat extend through the plates, wherein the postsslidingly engage the plateswhen they are raised and lowered while the user performs resisted gluteal bridge exercises.

Referring to, the support frame assemblyof the weight stackalso includes external vertical members,that extend upward from the deck assembly, an upper headerthat extends between the upper ends of the vertical members,and thereby acts as a cross-member, and lower corner bracesaffixed to the vertical member,and one of the first and second side members,to provide additional support to the frame assembly. The upper headercan include information and instructions about the apparatusand how it is to be properly used to perform gluteal bridge exercises. The support frame assemblyalso includes a grab member, which can be configured as U-shaped bar, to assist the user with ingress and egress from the bench, and a primary shroudcoupled to the vertical members,and overlapping the weight stack. Below the primary shroudis an intermediate cross memberthat extends between the external vertical members,and that supports the weight stackand the plates. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the resistance assemblycould be a resistance band, a chain, a single weight, electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, spring or any combination of these embodiments along with a weight stack. For example, the resistance assemblycould include both a weight stack and resistance bands. In other alternative embodiments, the resistance assemblymay be a single weight that is permanently or releasably coupled to the bottom portionof the bench. For example, a dumbbell or a weight plate may be attached to the bottom portionof the bench. In further alternative embodiments, the resistance assemblymay be omitted for the apparatus.

There are numerous critical dimensions, angles and ratios of the components of the apparatusto ensure that the user can perform gluteal bridge exercises in a highly productive, efficient and same manner. For example, the angle A formed between the vertical memberand the angled memberis 30 to 65 degrees, preferably 50 degrees. The angle B formed between the sloped memberand the primary memberis 25 to 60 degrees, preferably 40 degrees. Referring to, the center of the first pulley assemblyand the center of the second pulley assembly(which corresponds to the axis of rotation of the wheel of the pulley) are configured to define a W1 distance, which is at least 30 inches, preferably 39 inches. Also, the pivot point PP is located at a distance of P1 from the bottom edge of the rear member, where P1 is at least 14 inches, preferably 16 inches. Also, the distance between the pivot point PP and the center of wheeldefines a distance of P2, which is at least 15 inches from, preferably 17 inches. The top wallof the foot rest assemblyis positioned vertically below a pivot point PP and an anchor point AP. As shown in, the top wallis located at a distance of F1 from the bottom edge of the primary member, where F1 is less than 8 inches, preferably 6.5 inches from that edge. This non-elevated foot rest assemblyhelps ensure that the user is able to stabilize his/her feet on the plate memberwhile performing the resisted gluteal bridge exercise. In contrast, a foot rest that is elevated above the pivot point PP puts unnecessary strain on the user's torso, including his/her neck. Additionally, an elevated foot plate, coupled with the forces of gravity, creates a shear force between the bench and the user's body which can cause the user to inadvertently slide on the bench while attempting the bridge motion.

When the bench assemblyis in the first position or bottom position Pof, the anchor point AP is located at a distance of A1 vertically above the bottom edge of the primary member, where A1 is at least 5 inches from that edge, preferably 7 inches. Also, when the bench assemblyis in the first or bottom position P, the anchor point AP is located at a distance of A2, which is at least 10 inches from the pivot point PP, preferably 12 inches from that point PP. Further, when the user is properly positioned on and secured to the bench assemblywith the belt assembly, a second or ready for use position P, which is shown in. In the ready for use position P, the user's U knees and hips are in a flexed position and his/her hips are not extended, meaning the user's hips are bent to an angle between 60 degrees and 110 degrees depending on the selected placement of users feet, which is shown in. When performing the gluteal bridge exercise, the user will attain a third or hip extended position P, which is shown in. When the user moves from the ready for use position P, to the hip extended position P, the anchor point AP is displaced in a substantially curvilinear motion as the bench assemblypivots about the pivot point PP. In the hip extended position P, the anchor point AP is located at least 10 inches from the bottom edge of the primary member, and preferably 16 inches from that edge. Also, in the hip extended position P, the anchor point AP is located at a distance of A3, which exceeds distance A2 and which is at least 13 inches from the pivot point PP, and preferably at least 15 inches from that point. In other words, when the bench assemblymoves from the ready for use position Pto the hip extended position P, the anchor point AP travels along a curvilinear path that brings the anchor point AP more than 3 inches closer to the weight stackthan when the anchor point AP is in the ready for use position P.

These dimensions, angles and ratios are essential to the functionality of the apparatusand its long-term operation for a number of reasons. First, these angles are essential to the design and layout of the exercise apparatusto ensure that the bench assemblyis properly positioned relative to the supporting ground such that the person can access the bench assemblyand then perform the resisted gluteal bridge in a controlled, safe and effective manner. Second, the benchis designed support the user's entire thorax, including the user's lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spines, in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, which helps protect the user's spine and allows the motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the hip joints. Third, the operable configuration of the benchto the vertical memberprovides a pivot point PP generally aligned with an inferior aspect of the user's scapulae and the user's thoracic spine. When the user is properly positioned on the bench, the pivot point PP is located between thoracic vertebras T1 through 12 of the human spine, preferably between vertebrae T3-T9, and most preferably between vertebrae T5-T7.

The exercise apparatusfacilitates the performance of a resisted gluteal bridge by a user in a safe, controlled and efficient manner.shows a user U in the second or ready for use position P, where the user U is lying on the benchprior andshows the user in the third or hip extended position P, which represents an upper state of the gluteal bridge movement. The exercise apparatusis configured to protect the spine of the user U by maintaining the lumbar spine in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, and also allows the bridging motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the user's hip joints. The apparatuspurposely eliminates any accessory movement through the user's spine and improves overall effectiveness of the resisted gluteal bridge exercise.

shows the user U in the second position, which illustrates both (i) the ready for use position Pprior to the commencement of the exercise and (ii) the bottom position Pthat is achieved after the user U performs one complete gluteal bridge movement. In the ready for use position P, the bumper(see) affixed to the angled support memberengages the cross member(see) of the bench. To properly use the exercise apparatus, the user U adjusts the foot assemblyto a suitable position and selects a resistance level on the weight stack. In particular, the user inserts the pinthrough the platesand into the rodto select the amount of weighted resistance during the performance of the resisted gluteal bridge exercises. Once the amount of weight is selected, the user U sits near the end of the benchand aligns the inferior portion of their scapulae at, or proximate the pivot point. Once the user U is positioned on the bench, the user U secures his or her hips and lower abdomen to the benchvia the belt assemblyand places his/her feet against the adjustable foot assembly. Once the belt members,are connected via the buckle, the user adjusts the length of the first and/or second members,to ensure that the belt assemblyproperly secures the user to the benchand attain the ready for use position P.

After the user U is secured to the bench, the user U utilizes their gluteal muscles and accessory muscles of the hip and thigh to drive and elevate his/her hips in a substantially upward direction, which as reflected by the upwardly directed arrow in. This upwardly directed movement by the user U causes the user's knees to move from a position of relative flexion towards a position of less flexion. Additionally, this upwardly directed movement by the user U causes the bottom portionof the benchto move upward and away from the deck assemblywhile the benchpivots around the pivot point PP. This upwardly directed movement by the user U also causes the anchor point AP to travel along a curvilinear path. This path will cause the anchor point AP to move from the position shown into the position shown in FIG., which is approximately 9 inches upward and approximately 3 inches closer to the weight stack. This travel by the anchor point AP in turn forces the cablevia the pulley assemblyto lift the selected amount of weight from the weight stack. It should be understood, that the more weight the user selects on the weight stackthe more force the user U will have to use to cause the bottom portionof the benchto move upward.

While the user's feet are engaged with the foot assembly, the user U continues driving upward until he/she reaches the third or hip extended position P. The hip extended position Poccurs for most users U when the angle between the benchand the rear vertical memberis between 60 degrees and 100 degrees, and typically is 80 degrees. Also, once the user reaches this hip extended position Pthe cableis substantially parallel with the rear vertical member. Once the hip extended position Pis reached, the user U may hold or maintain this position for a period of time. After the user U has reached the hip extended position P, the user U allows the bottom bench portionto move downward towards the deck assemblyuntil the cross member(see) makes contact with the bumper(see) whereby the benchreaches the bottom position P. In this manner, the user U progresses from the ready for use position Pthrough the hip extended position Pand back to the bottom position P, where the progression through these three positions defines one complete repetition of the gluteal bridge exercise. After the user U completes the desired number of repetitions, the user U releases the buckle, which causes the first and second members,to disengage from one another. The user U is then able to stand-up and exit from the exercise apparatus.

depict a second embodiment of the apparatusfor performing a resisted gluteal bridge movement that is configured for a heavy-to-medium use environment, such as in a gym, fitness center or training facility. The exercise apparatusgenerally comprises (i) a support assemblywith a frame assemblyand a deck assembly; (ii) a bench assembly; and, (iii) a resistance assembly. The exercise apparatusis designed to be placed on a planar support surface or floor F within the gym, fitness center, training facility, or a home. As described in greater detail below, the user or person selects a level of resistance on the resistance assembly, secures himself/herself to the bench assemblyand then performs at least one repetition of the resisted gluteal bridge movement. Typically, the user performs multiple repetitions of the resisted gluteal bridge movement as part of his/her training regimen.

Referring toand as mentioned above, the support assemblyincludes the frame assemblyand the deck assembly. The frame assemblycomprises: 1) two primary or central members, 2) a front member, 3) a middle cross member, and 4) a rear member. As seen in the bottom view of, the central membersare substantially parallel to each other. Specifically, the front memberand rear memberextends from the central members. Also, the middle cross memberextends between the central members. Based on this arrangement, the members,andare substantially parallel to each other and are substantially perpendicular to the central members.

The frame assemblymay also include a plurality of mounting feetthat engage the supporting floor F and that are configured to increase the stability of the apparatusduring usage. The mounting feetpreferably have an elastomeric composition and can compensate if the floor F that apparatusis placed upon is not level. In the embodiment of, a pair of mounting feetare affixed to the front memberand a pair of feetare affixed to the rear member. The frame assemblyfurther includes a rear vertical memberthat extends upward from the rear member. An angled support memberextends between the rear vertical memberand the middle cross member.

The deck assembly, preferably horizontally arranged relative to the floor F, comprises an upper plate memberthat extends over an extent of the central membersto define a cavitythere between (see). The deck assemblyis intended to be a low-profile structure to facilitate the user's U ingress and egress from the apparatus. As such, the plate memberis positioned close to the support surface or floor F upon which the apparatusis placed, where an upper surface of the plate memberand the floor F is less than 5 inches, preferably less than 4 inches and most preferably 3 inches. These dimensions represent the height of the plate memberto the floor F and include the mounting feet. The deck assemblymay have a non-skid surface placed over the upper plate memberto help ensure that a user's feet do not slide during use of the apparatus. In an alternative embodiment, an adjustable foot rest assembly that is similar to the foot rest assembly discussed above in connection with the first embodiment may be connected to the deck assemblyand configured to engage the feet of the person that is using the apparatus. As shown in the embodiment of, the upper plate memberis positioned below a pivot point PP (see) and below the bottom edge of the bench assembly.

The bench assemblyof the exercise apparatuscomprises a bench, a bench support frame assemblyand a belt assembly. The benchhas a substantially rectangular configuration with internal pad member residing within an external housing. The belt assemblyincludes a first member, a second memberand a buckleto operably connect the first and second members,. The belt assemblyis operably connected by a couplerto the support frame assemblynear a lower endof the bench. As shown inand as explained below, the user secures the belt assemblyacross his/her lower abdomen before commencing the gluteal bride exercise. Unlike some conventional devices, the apparatusdoes not require additional structures above the bench assemblyand the belt assemblyto secure the user U to the bench, such as mechanical linkages or an elongated pad that extends across the user's abdominal region. The benchis affixed to the support frame assemblywhich includes side frame members, rear member, and intermediate cross member(see). Referring to, an elastomeric bumperis affixed to the frame assembly, preferably the angled member. The bumperis configured to engage the intermediate cross memberwhen the benchis lowered towards the angled memberwhile the user performs the gluteal bridge movement. In this manner the bumperprevents the benchfrom striking and potentially damaging the frame assembly, including the angled member, while various users perform gluteal bridge movements over prolonged periods of time. The bumperhas an overall height of at least 1.5 inches, and preferably 2.0 inches. Unlike some conventional devices, the apparatusincludes a single benchthat obviates the need for a secondary, typically lower, bench that assists a user with ingress and egress and/or further supports the user prior to and/or after the gluteal exercise movement.

The bench assemblyis pivotally connected to the support frameto allow for pivotal movement of the benchand the bench support frame assemblyduring the user's performance of the gluteal bridge exercise. Referring to, the bench assemblyincludes at least one bearing assemblythat receives an extent of a rodextending through an upper portion of the vertical member. The bearing assemblyincludes an internal bearing setmounted within a housingthat extends downward from the bench support frame assembly. The bearing assemblyis preferably a pillow block bearing with a curvilinear housing. As shown in, there are two bearing assemblies, each extending downward from an extent of the side frame member. In this configuration, the rodextends from the vertical memberand an end segment of the rodextends through the bearing set. Also in this configuration, the vertical memberis positioned between the bearing assemblies. The roddefines a pivot point PP (see) where the bench assemblyis pivotally connected to the support frameto allow for pivotal movement of the benchduring performance of the gluteal bridge exercise. The pivot point PP is in an elevated vertical position relative to: (i) the support surface upon which the apparatusrests, (ii) the deck plate member, and (iii) a resistance point RP (as detailed below and shown in). This does not mean that the pivot point PP is directly above these other components; instead, the pivot point PP is located at a higher vertical elevation compared to these components. Accordingly, the vertical elevation of pivot point PP is greater than the resistance point RP and the deck plate member. In the embodiment of, when the apparatusis in the first position or bottom position P, the engagement between the angled memberand the intermediate cross member, as provided by the bumper, and between the side frame memberand the vertical member, as provided by the bearing assembly, ensures that both the benchand the side frame memberare substantially parallel to the angled member. This positional arrangement improves the stability of the benchboth when the user lays on the benchto prior to securing the belt assemblyand beginning the first repetition of the gluteal bridge movement, and when the user is laying on the benchwhile performing gluteal bridge movements.

As shown in, the resistance assemblyincludes a resistance bandand a means for releasably securingthe resistance bandto both the frame assemblyand bench assembly. The resistance assemblyprovides a resistance force, in addition to the effects of gravity, that the user U must overcome in order to pivotally move the benchfrom a first position (see) to a second position (see) about the pivot point. In particular, the means for securingincludes an upper securement meansand a lower securement means. These securement means,can include a projection or combination of projections, a hook, a channel, a recess, or an aperture. As shown in, the upper securement meansincludes projectionsthat extend outwardly from both side frame members, namely an outer surface of the member. These projectionsare preferably positioned near the belt couplerand do not extend outwardly past the end wallof the rear member. The center of the projectionforms a resistance point RP, which is angularly displaced about the pivot point PP when the exercise apparatusmoves from the ready for use position Pthrough the hip extended position Pand back to the bottom position P. The resistance point RP is in an elevated vertical position relative to: (i) the support surface upon which the apparatusrests and (ii) the deck plate member. The resistance point RP is in a lower vertical position relative to the pivot point PP. This does not mean that the resistance point RP is aligned directly above or directly below these other components; instead, the resistance point RP is located at different vertical elevations compared to these components. Accordingly, the vertical elevation of resistance point RP is between the pivot point PP and the deck plate member. Additionally, the projectionsmay have a raised outer lipthat helps ensure that the resistance assemblydoes not disengage projectionsduring use of the exercise apparatus.

Referring to, the lower securement meansincludes a first projectionthat extends outwardly from the central members. The lower securement meanscan also include a second projectionthat also extends from the central members, and a securement platepositioned proximate the second projection. In the embodiment of, the first and second projections,extend outwardly from the central membersnear the rear member. The first and second projections,do not extend past the end wallof the rear member. The resistance bandis operatively connected to the first projection, while the second projectionand the securement platehelp ensure that banddoes not disengage the first projectionduring use of the exercise apparatus. The user U may change the resistance bandof the exercise apparatusshown inby first releasing the connecting platefrom the first and second projections,. Next, the user U slides the bottomof the resistance bandoff of the lower securement means. This in turn, enables the user to disconnect the topof the resistance bandfrom the upper securement means. The user then slides the alternative resistance band onto the upper securement meansand then onto the lower securement means. Finally, the user connects the connecting plateto both the first and second projections,.

As shown in, when connected to the upper and lower securement means,, the resistance bandsare positioned external to or beyond the central membersand the bench side members. This relative positioning provides a number of benefits, including the rapid exchange of different resistance bandsthat provide varying levels of resistance during the performance of the gluteal bridge movement. In other words, the resistance bandsare not positioned completely beneath and within the periphery of the bench. The top view inand the bottom view inshow the first and second projections,residing in a substantially vertical plane VP that is oriented perpendicular to the drawing sheet and substantially parallel to the central members. Because the projections,have a length that exceeds the width of the band, the projections,provide the vertical plane VP with a width or thickness that exceeds the width of the band. During the performance of the gluteal bridge movement, the resistance bandselastically deform in a manner that causes each bandto be displaced both vertically and within the vertical plane VP. In other words, the bandis elastically deformed in a substantially parallel direction that is within the vertical plane VP. Overall, this arrangement of the resistance assemblyand its components ensures smooth and consistent elastic deformation of the assemblyduring the bridge movement, which facilitates proper operation of the exercise apparatus. It should be understood that the lower securement meansmay be connected to various other locations, which include the rear member, rear vertical member, or the angled member. However, these alternate connection locations should be selected in a manner that does not impact or compromise the elastic deformation of the assemblyduring the bridge movement, or comprise the proper operation of the exercise apparatus.

There are numerous critical dimensions, angles and ratios of the components of the apparatusto ensure that the user can perform gluteal bridge exercises in a highly productive, efficient and same manner. For example, the angle A formed between the vertical memberand the angled memberis 30 to 65 degrees, preferably 50 degrees. The angle B formed between the sloped memberand the middle cross memberis 25 to 60 degrees, preferably 40 degrees. Referring to, the pivot point PP is located at a distance of P1 from the bottom edge of the rear member, where P1 is at least 14 inches, preferably 16 inches. The lower securement memberis located at a distance of C1, which is less than 6 inches from the pivot point PP, and preferably 4 inches from that point. Also, as shown in, the exercise apparatushas a non-elevated foot rest which ensures that the user is able to perform the resisted gluteal bridge in a controlled, safe and effective manner. In contrast, a footrest that is elevated over the pivot point PP places unnecessary strain on the user's neck. Additionally, an elevated foot plate, coupled with the forces of gravity, creates a shear force between the bench and the user's body which can cause the user to inadvertently slide on the bench while attempting the bridge motion.

When the bench assemblyis in the first position or bottom position Pof, the resistance point RP is located at a distance of R1 vertically above the bottom edge of the central members, where R1 is at least 6 inches from that edge, preferably 8.5 inches. Also, when the bench assemblyis in the first or bottom position P, the resistance point RP is located at a distance of R2, which is at least 10 inches from the pivot point PP, preferably 16 inches from that point PP. Further, when the user is properly positioned on and secured to the bench assemblywith the belt assembly, a second or ready for use position P, which is shown in. In the ready for use position P, the user's U knees and hips are in a flexed position and his/her hips are not extended, meaning the user's hips are bent to an angle between 60 and 110 degrees depending on the selected placement of user's feet, as shown in. When performing the gluteal bridge exercise, the user will attain a third or hip extended position P, which is shown in. When the user moves from the ready for use position P, to the hip extended position P, the resistance point RP is displaced in a substantially curvilinear motion as the bench assemblypivots about the pivot point PP. In the hip extended position P, the resistance point RP is located at least 13.5 inches from the bottom edge of the central members, and preferably 17.5 inches from that edge.

These dimensions, angles and ratios are essential to the functionality of the apparatusand its long-term operation for a number of reasons. First, these angles are essential to the design and layout of the exercise apparatusto ensure that the bench assemblyis properly positioned relative to the supporting ground such that the person can access the bench assemblyand then perform the resisted gluteal bridge in a controlled, safe and effective manner. Second, the benchis designed support the user's entire thorax, including the user's lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spines, in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, which helps protect the user's spine and allows the motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the hip joints. Third, the operable configuration of the benchto the vertical memberprovides a pivot point PP generally aligned with an inferior aspect of the user's scapulae and the user's thoracic spine. When the user is properly positioned on the bench, the pivot point PP is located between thoracic vertebras T1 through 12 of the human spine, preferably between vertebrae T3-T9, and most preferably between vertebrae T5-T7.

The exercise apparatusfacilitates the performance of a resisted gluteal bridge by a user in a safe, controlled and efficient manner.shows a user U in the second or ready for use position P, where the user U is lying on the benchprior andshows the user U in the third or hip extended position P, which represents an upper state of the gluteal bridge movement. The exercise apparatusis configured to protect the spine of the user U by maintaining the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine in a neutral position throughout the entire range of motion of the exercise, and also allows the bridging motion of the exercise to be concentrated at the user's hip joints. The apparatuspurposely eliminates any accessory movement through the user's spine and improves overall effectiveness of the resisted gluteal bridge exercise.

shows the user U in the second position, which illustrates both the ready for use position Pprior to the commencement of the exercise and the bottom position Pthat is achieved after the user U performs one complete gluteal bridge movement. In the ready for use position P, the bumper(see) affixed to the angled support memberengages the cross member(see) of the bench. To properly use the exercise apparatus, the user U sits near the end of the bench, suitable positions his/her feet on the deck assembly, and aligns the inferior portion of their scapulae at, or proximate the pivot point. Once the user U is positioned on the bench, the user U secures his or her hips and lower abdomen to the benchvia the belt assemblyand places his/her feet flat on the deck assembly. Once the belt members,are connected via the buckle, the user adjusts the length of the first and/or second members,to ensure that the belt assemblyproperly secures the user to the benchand attain the ready for use position P.

After the user U is secured to the bench, the user U utilizes their gluteal muscles and accessory muscles of the hip and thigh to drive and elevate his/her hips in a substantially upward direction, as reflected by the upwardly directed arrow in. This upwardly directed movement by the user U causes the user's knees to move from a position of relative flexion towards a position of less flexion. Additionally, this upwardly directed movement by the user U causes the bottom portionof the benchto move upward and away from the deck assemblywhile the benchpivots around the pivot point PP. Further, this upwardly directed movement by the user U causes the resistance bandto elastically deform, namely stretch or elongate and then return to the un-deformed state. This stretching or elongation of the resistance bandadds resistance to the user's U ability to move the bottom portionof the benchupward. Therefore, the higher the tension of the resistance bandthe more force the user U will have to use to cause the bottom portionof the benchto move upward.

While the user's feet remain flat on the deck assembly, the user U continues driving upward until he/she reaches the third or hip extended position P. The hip extended position Poccurs for most users U when the angle between the benchand the rear vertical memberis between 60 degrees and 100 degrees, and typically is 80 degrees. Once the hip extended position Pis reached, the user U may hold or maintain this position for a period of time. After the user U has reached the hip extended position P, the user U allows the bottom bench portionto move downward towards the deck assemblyuntil the cross member(see) makes contact with the bumper(see) whereby the benchreaches the bottom position P. In this manner, the user U progresses from the ready for use position Pthrough the hip extended position Pand back to the bottom position P, where the progression through these three positions defines one complete repetition of the gluteal bridge exercise. After the user U completes the desired number of repetitions, the user U releases the buckle, which causes the first and second members,to disengage from one another. The user U is then able to stand-up and exit from the exercise apparatus.

depict a third embodiment of the apparatusfor performing a resisted gluteal bridge movement that is configured for a lighter use environment, such as in a use in a home gym. The exercise apparatusgenerally comprises: (i) a support assemblywith a frame assemblyand a deck assembly; (ii) a bench assembly; and, (iii) a resistance assembly. The exercise apparatusis designed to be placed on a planar support surface or floor F within the gym, fitness center, training facility, or a home. As described in greater detail below, the user or person selects a level of resistance on the resistance assembly, secures himself/herself to the bench assemblyand then performs at least one repetition of the resisted gluteal bridge movement. Typically, the user performs multiple repetitions of the resisted gluteal bridge movement as part of his/her training regimen.

Referring toand as mentioned above, the support assemblyincludes the frame assemblyand the deck assembly. The frame assemblycomprises: (i) two primary or central members, (ii) a front member, (iii) a slideable middle cross member, and (iv) a rear member. As seen in the bottom view of, the central membersare substantially parallel to each other. Specifically, the central membersextend between the front memberand rear member. The central membersare spaced a short distance apart to define a cavitythrough which the cross memberis displaced when the exercise apparatusis moved to a fifth position or a collapsed position Pc. The middle cross memberextends between the central membersand is capable of sliding within a channel or slotformed in the central member. This channelhas a first end, which is proximate to the front cross member. Positioning the middle cross memberproximate to the first endpositions the exercise apparatusin fifth position or a collapsed position Pc. This fifth position or a collapsed position Pc will be discussed in greater detail below and in connection with. The channelalso has a second end, which is forward from the resistance assemblyand rearward from the deck assembly. Placing the middle cross memberproximate to the second endpositions the exercise apparatusin either a: 1) first or ready to use position P, 2) second or hip extended position P, a third or a bottom position P, or a fourth or a flat bench position P. Based on this arrangement, the members,andare substantially parallel to each other and are substantially perpendicular to the central members.

In the embodiment of, the frame assemblyfurther includes a rear support membersthat extends upward from the central membersto a pivot point PP. In particular, the rear support membersare coupled to the central membersby a boltthat is positioned proximate to the rear member. Also, the rear support membersare coupled to an angled support memberby a bolt. The bolts,enable the rear support membersto collapse when the middle cross memberis positioned proximate to the first end. An angled support memberextends between the rear support memberand the middle cross member. The angled support member is U-shaped, which allows this support member to receive an extent of a locking support member. The frame assemblyfurther includes at least one front wheeland preferably two wheels.

The deck assemblycomprises a lower plate member, preferably horizontally arranged relative to the floor F, that extends below an extent of the central members(see). The deck assemblyis intended to be a low-profile structure to facilitate the user's U ingress and egress from the apparatus. As such, the plate memberis positioned on or near to the support surface or floor F upon which the apparatusis placed. The deck assemblymay have a non-skid surface placed over the lower plate memberto help ensure that a user's feet do not slide during use of the apparatus. In an alternative embodiment, an adjustable foot rest assembly that is similar to the foot rest assembly discussed above in connection with the first embodiment may be connected to the deck assemblyand configured to engage the feet of the person that is using the apparatus. As shown in the embodiment of, the plate memberis positioned below a pivot point PP (see) and below the bottom edge of the bench assembly.