Treadmill apparatus with dual spring-loaded treads

Abstract

A treadmill device includes a frame, and two independent side-by-side treadmills each having a continuous tread and first and second ends. The device further includes link members for supporting the first and second end of the treadmills above the frame. Each of the link members has a first end pivotably connected to the frame and a second end pivotably connected to the respective treadmill adjacent the respective end thereof. The device still further includes first and second spring-return hydraulic cylinder assemblies for independently supporting the respective treadmills in a first elevated position above the frame, and for independently resisting downward movement of the treadmills from the first position to a second position. The treads may be driven by a mechanical drive mechanism actuated by downward movement of the treadmills, or may be motor driven in a conventional manner by a common electric motor. In use, the operator walks upon the treadmills in a normal manner wherein the treadmills alternately move from the first position to the second position as the operator places weight on the respective treadmill, with the spring return hydraulic cylinder assemblies being operable for returning the treadmills from the second position to the first position when the operator's weight is removed from the treadmill.