Apparatus and methods for exercise machines having balancing loads

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for exercise machines having balancing loads. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a load guide pivotable through at least one plane of freedom, a load slideably engaged with the load guide, a lift arm having a first end coupled to the load guide, and a cable-and-pulley device. The cable-and-pulley device is operatively coupled to the load and to the lift arm so that a training force applied to the lift arm induces a lift force on the load. The exercise machine requires the user to balance the load as the load is raised, providing a more enhanced workout. In alternate embodiments, the load guide may include at least one rocker engageable with the floor surface, or may be pivotably coupled to a support frame (or base) so that the load guide does not contact the floor surface. In another embodiment, the load guide may include a base having a convex surface engageable with the floor surface, the load guide being pivotable in any direction. In a further embodiment, an apparatus includes a support having a first end proximate the floor, the support being pivotable about the first end, a lift member pivotably coupled to the support, and a load coupled to the lift member. As a training force is applied to the lift member, the load is at least partially balanceable on the support by the training force. In alternate embodiments, the support may be pivotable in a single plane of freedom, or in two planes of freedom. Alternately, the load may be coupled to the lift member by a force-transmitting device, such as a cable-and-pulley device, a linkage, a belt, or other suitable device.