WO2016176733A1

WO2016176733A1 - Mobile gymnasium

Info

Publication number: WO2016176733A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/050324
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bradley Francis WEBB
Original assignee: Bradley Francis WEBB
Priority date: 2015-05-07
Filing date: 2016-05-05
Publication date: 2016-11-10
Also published as: AU2016257142A1

Abstract

The present invention provides a mobile gymnasium, including a wheeled chassis, a frame upstanding from the chassis, and one or more pulleys fixed relative to the frame in use, the one or more pulleys guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow a user to perform a resistance exercise.

Description

MOBILE GYMNASIUM

Priority Documents

[0001] The present invention claims priority from Australian Provisional Application No. 2015901650 titled "MOBILE GYMNASIUM" and filed on 7 May 2015, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to a mobile gymnasium. In a particular form, the invention relates to a trailer that can be towed behind a vehicle and used to perform various exercises.

Description of the Prior Art

[0003] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0004] A mobile gymnasium transports gymnasium equipment to a location where it is used by a user or group of users to perform various exercises.

[0005] Mobile gymnasiums provide a flexible and convenient way for people to exercise who may not be able to readily attend a conventional gymnasium. As an example, there are many sub-groups of the population who experience difficulties associated with access to transport. Such sub-groups may include for example, the elderly, disabled, people living in remote communities, members of lower income families, young mothers, sole parents and the like.

[0006] Typically, personal trainers either train their clients in a conventional gymnasium (to which they pay fees) or in an outdoor location which limits the equipment which they have access to. Furthermore, it is becoming more difficult for personal trainers to find work at conventional gymnasiums as supply of trainers often exceeds demand. Mobile gymnasiums may therefore be particularly useful for personal trainers as they permit a trainer to take traditional gymnasium equipment to their clients at a location convenient for the client.

[0007] US 5,667,267 describes a mobile fitness centre which includes a trailer having at least one expandable side portion to increase the floor surface of the trailer to improve the overall workout space and lessen the crowded feeling of a mobile unit. The mobile fitness centre provides a completely portable training facility which can be equipped with almost as much equipment as provided by some gymnasiums or stationary fitness centres.

[0008] AU2006201906 describes a trailer including a wheeled base defining an upwardly facing, generally horizontal first working surface, and including a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls and a roof. The trailer has a transport condition in which the side walls and the end walls extend between the base and the roof to define a closed interior. The trailer is convertible to a working condition in which at least a major portion of a first of the side walls is open and a first member which defines an upwardly facing, generally horizontal second working surface extends outwardly from the opening from a position close to or adjacent the first working surface.

[0009] US 2013/0053220 describes a mobile fitness system capable of being mounted to a vehicle rack. Components of the fitness system may be adjustably attached to the rack, providing for various free-hanging exercises, as well as allowing for attachment of various other fitness equipment. The fitness system may comprise extensions allowing groups of users to train simultaneously around the vehicle. The fitness system may also comprise a simulated door frame for attachment to a vehicle rack for supporting various home gymnasium equipment that typically mounts to household doors. The fitness system may also comprise a spiral or semi-circular apparatus for performing body weight exercises at a plurality of angles. A plurality of hand grips may be attached to the apparatus, allowing a user to perform a variety of exercises at predetermined angles. The apparatus may be fixed to a vehicle rack to provide a portable training system. [0010] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed. Summary of the Present Invention

[0011] In one broad form, the present invention seeks to provide a mobile gymnasium, including:

a) a wheeled chassis;

b) a frame upstanding from the chassis; and,

c) one or more pulleys fixed relative to the frame in use, the one or more pulleys guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow a user to perform a resistance exercise.

[0012] Typically, the one or more pulleys are configured so that the at least one cable runs exterior to the frame.

[0013] Typically, the one or more pulleys are disposed about an outer periphery of the frame.

[0014] Typically, the one or more pulleys are fixed in overhanging relation to a side of the frame.

[0015] Typically, the one or more pulleys are fixed proximate a top of the frame.

[0016] Typically, the one or more pulleys are mounted directly to the frame.

[0017] Typically, the one or more pulleys are securable to a pulley mount that is fixed proximate a top or side of the frame.

[0018] Typically, the pulley mount is a plate or rail.

[0019] Typically, the pulley mount overhangs a side of the frame.

[0020] Typically, the mobile gymnasium further includes one or more cross beams secured to the top of the frame for supporting the pulley mount.

[0021] Typically, the one or more cross beams support pulley mounts at opposing ends thereof about opposing sides of the frame. [0022] Typically, the load is a weight stack.

[0023] Typically, the weight stack includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage.

[0024] Typically, the movable carriage includes a base and a support post upstanding from the base that slidably receives the one or more weight plates.

[0025] Typically, the movable carriage is slidably coupled to at least one guide rail which extends between the pulley mount and a floor of the chassis, such that in use, the carriage is movable up and down the at least one guide rail.

[0026] Typically, the frame has a rectangular box structure.

[0027] Typically, the frame is externally cladded.

[0028] Typically, the frame defines an interior used to store exercise equipment.

[0029] Typically, the exercise equipment is stored around an inner periphery of the frame.

[0030] Typically, the frame includes at least one support member extending along the inner periphery for supporting a plurality of posts that allow weight plates to be stacked in a storage configuration.

[0031] Typically, the at least one support member extends in a direction of elongation of a side of the frame.

[0032] Typically, a plurality of storage containers are positionable at least partly below the at least one support member.

[0033] Typically, a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart struts extend between a base member of the frame and the at least one support member, the struts acting to separate storage containers and having anchor points used in tethering the storage containers to the frame. [0034] Typically, the mobile gymnasium further includes a pair of upright members mounted to a rear end of the frame, the upright members having a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner.

[0035] Typically, attachments secured to the upright members provide support for a barbell.

[0036] Typically, the mobile gymnasium further includes one or more height adjustable support legs that extend between the chassis and a ground surface.

[0037] Typically, the one or more support legs are pivotably mounted to the chassis.

[0038] Typically, one end of a barbell is pivotably mountable to a support leg enabling a user to perform a T-bar row.

[0039] Typically, one or more seats enabling a user to perform a seated exercise are removably securable to the chassis.

[0040] Typically, the one or more seats are attached to a seat tube which is slidably engaged within a complementary tube mounted to the chassis.

[0041] Typically, the seat tube is slidably adjustable within the complementary tube to vary a distance of the seat away from the chassis.

[0042] Typically, the mobile gymnasium further includes at least one upright member located proximate a forward end of the chassis and coupled to the frame, the at least one upright member having a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner.

[0043] Typically, the wheeled chassis is towable behind a vehicle.

[0044] Typically, the grippable attachment is height adjustable.

[0045] In a second broad form, the present invention seeks to provide a mobile gymnasium, including:

a) a wheeled chassis; b) a frame upstanding from the chassis;

c) a plurality of pulley mounts fixed proximate a top or side of the frame; and, d) one or more pulleys securable to each pulley mount for guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow a person to move the load and perform a resistance exercise.

[0046] Typically, a first pulley mount is positioned proximate a forward driver's side portion of the frame, a second pulley mount is positioned proximate a rearward driver's side portion of the frame, a third pulley mount is positioned proximate a rearward passenger's side portion of the frame and a fourth pulley mount is positioned proximate a forward passenger's side portion of the frame.

[0047] In a third broad form, the present invention seeks to provide a vehicle trailer usable by a person to perform a resistance exercise, the trailer including:

a) a wheeled chassis for towing behind a vehicle;

b) a frame upstanding from the chassis; and,

c) one or more cable exercise stations disposed about an outer periphery of the frame, the or each cable exercise station including:

i) a pulley mount fixed proximate a top or side of the frame; and,

i) one or more pulleys securable to the pulley mount for guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow the person to perform the resistance exercise.

[0048] Typically, the one or more cable exercise stations include:

a) a first cable exercise station located proximate a forward driver's side portion of the frame;

b) a second cable exercise station located proximate a rear driver's side portion of the frame;

c) a third cable exercise station located proximate a forward passenger's side portion of the frame; and,

d) a fourth cable exercise station located proximate a rear passenger's side portion of the frame. [0049] Typically, the one or more of the grippable attachments are height adjustable.

[0050] Typically, the cable exercise stations are reconfigurable enabling pulleys from one cable exercise station to be mounted to a pulley mount of another cable exercise station.

[0051] Typically, the load is a weight stack including one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage having a support post for receiving the weight plates.

[0052] Typically, the frame defines an interior used to store exercise equipment. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0053] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0054] Figure 1 A is a rear perspective view of an example of a mobile gymnasium;

[0055] Figure IB is a front perspective view of the mobile gymnasium of Figure 1 A;

[0056] Figure 1C is a top view of the mobile gymnasium of Figure 1 A;

[0057] Figure ID is a driver's side view of the mobile gymnasium of Figure 1A;

[0058] Figure IE is a passenger's side view of the mobile gymnasium of Figure 1 A;

[0059] Figures 2A to 2D are perspective views of an example of a pulley arrangement located at a front driver's side of the mobile gymnasium;

[0060] Figures 3A to 3D are perspective views of an example of a pulley arrangement located at a rear driver's side of the mobile gymnasium;

[0061] Figures 4A to 4C are perspective views of an example of a pulley arrangement located at a rear passenger's side of the mobile gymnasium;

[0062] Figure 5 is a detailed perspective view of an example of a height adjustable attachment as used in the pulley arrangement shown in Figures 4A to 4C;

[0063] Figure 6 is a detailed perspective view of a weight stack used in the pulley arrangement shown in Figures 4A to 4C;

[0064] Figures 7A to 7C are perspective views of an example of a pulley arrangement located at a front passenger's side of the mobile gymnasium;

[0065] Figure 8 is a detailed rear perspective view of an example of a slidably adjustable seat engaged beneath the chassis of the mobile gymnasium; [0066] Figure 9A is a front perspective view of an example of a frame construction of the mobile gymnasium;

[0067] Figure 9B shows an example of an interior of the frame of Figure 9A used to store exercise equipment; and,

[0068] Figures 10A and 10B show examples uses of the upright members located at the rear of the mobile gymnasium.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0069] An example of a mobile gymnasium 100 will now be described with reference to Figures lA to IE.

[0070] In this example, the mobile gymnasium 100 includes a wheeled chassis 110. Typically, the wheeled chassis 110 is for towing behind a vehicle (not shown). The chassis 110 is supported above the ground by at least a pair of wheels 115 (for a single axle arrangement) although any suitable size and type of chassis may be used including different axle configurations. A jockey wheel may also be attached to the chassis to assist in steering and manoeuvring the mobile gymnasium 100. The chassis 110 may be attached to a vehicle and towed via a tow hitch or tow bar 114. Accordingly, in one example, the mobile gymnasium 100 is a vehicle trailer for towing behind a vehicle. In alternative arrangements, the chassis may form part of a vehicle itself, in which case the mobile gymnasium may in fact be a form of vehicle.

[0071] The mobile gymnasium 100 further includes a frame 200 upstanding from the chassis 110. As shown in Figure IB, the frame 200 is erected above the base or floor 112 of the chassis 110. One or more pulleys 122 are fixed relative to the frame 200 in use. The one or more pulleys 122 guide at least one cable 124 connectable between a load 20 and a grippable attachment 126 to allow a user to perform a resistance exercise.

[0072] As will be described in more detail below, the one or more pulleys 122 may be mounted directly to the frame or alternatively to other mounting structure which is secured to the frame. In either arrangement, the one or more pulleys are positioned so as to be fixed in proximity to the frame. Typically, more than one pulley will be used in order to increase mechanical advantage and provide greater flexibility for alternate cable arrangements.

[0073] In use, a user holds the grippable attachment in a standing or seated position external to the periphery of the frame and moves the load 20 through a permitted range of travel. Many forms of grippable attachment may be used allowing a number of different exercises to be performed as would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art. For example, the grippable attachment may include, by way of non-limiting examples, a bar, a handle or a rope and be specifically used for exercises including for example, pull-downs, tricep extensions, bicep curls, seated rows, cable flys etc.

[0074] The above described mobile gymnasium advantageously allows a person to perform resistance exercises such as provided by a conventional cable exercise machine on a mobile apparatus. The ability to perform cable machine exercises greatly increases the versatility of the mobile gymnasium and allows a wide range of exercises to be performed that could previously only be performed in a conventional gymnasium. In the above arrangement, the pulleys and cable set ups are integrated into the frame which permits efficient operation and minimises set up time before use.

[0075] A number of further features will now be described.

[0076] Typically, the one or more pulleys 122 are disposed about an outer periphery of the frame 200 thereby allowing a user located external to the frame 200 to perform a resistance exercise. In this way, the one or more pulleys are configured so that the at least one cable runs exterior to the frame. In one example, one or more cables run in a substantially vertical plane proximate an outer portion of the chassis 110.

[0077] In an alternative arrangement, the one or more pulleys may be disposed about an internal periphery of the frame. In this arrangement, the load may be located within the frame with the cable routed through the frame allowing a user external to the frame to hold the grippable attachment to perform the resistance exercise. [0078] Whilst the pulleys could be located in various positions, typically the one or more pulleys are fixed proximate a top of the frame and in overhanging relation to a side of the frame. This maximises the range of travel of the cable exercise as well the number of different exercises that may be performed using the pulleys. Allowing a user to perform a cable exercise to the side of the frame makes efficient use of the mobile gymnasium and allows different types of exercises to be performed at the front and rear of the mobile gymnasium.

[0079] In one example, the one or more pulleys may be mounted directly to the frame, such as to a top or side beam of the frame. The frame may also be designed to have integrated mounting fixtures for the one or more pulleys. For example, the top of the frame may be designed to have an outer rail which overhangs side walls of the frame to which the pulleys may be fixed.

[0080] In the example shown in Figure 1C, the one or more pulleys 122 are securable to a pulley mount 120 that is fixed proximate a top 203 of the frame 200. The pulley mount 120 as shown is a plate from which the pulleys 122 downwardly depend. In other forms, the pulley mount 120 may be a rail or alternatively the pulley mount may form part of the frame structure. In order to position the load external to the frame, typically the pulley mount 120 overhangs a side of the frame. For example, as shown in Figure 1C, pulley mount 120 is positioned so as to overhand a forward portion of the driver's side 204 of the frame 200.

[0081] The mobile gymnasium further includes one or more cross beams secured to the top of the frame for supporting the pulley mount. For example, as shown in Figure 1C, a pair of cross beams 160.1, 160.2 span across the top 203 of the frame 200 and are secured thereto by any suitable mounting technique including for example by using fasteners such as bolts or screws or by welding. The cross beams 160.1, 160.2 are beams which are transverse to a direction of elongation of the frame 200. The pulley mount 120 is secured proximate an end of the cross beams 160.1, 160.2 so as to overhang a side 204 of the frame 200.

[0082] To increase versatility of the mobile gymnasium 100 and to enable more people to train simultaneously, typically the mobile gymnasium 100 includes a plurality of pulley mounts 120, 130, 140, 150 fixed proximate a top 203 of the frame 200 as shown in Figure 1C for example. One or more pulleys are securable to each pulley mount for guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow a person to move the load and perform a resistance exercise. Pulley mounts 120, 130 are located proximate a driver's side 204 of the frame 200 whilst pulley mounts 140, 150 are located proximate a passenger's side 205 of the frame 200. In this way, a plurality of cable exercise stations are provided around an outer periphery of the frame 200.

[0083] In this example, pulley mount 150 is supported by cross beams 160.1, 160.2 so as to overhang side 205 of the frame 200. Accordingly, pulley mount 150 is disposed at an opposing end of beams 160.1, 160.2 to pulley mount 120. In this way, the one or more cross beams may support pulley mounts at opposing ends thereof about opposing sides of the frame. A second pair of cross beams 160.3, 160.4 support pulley mounts 130, 140 at opposing ends thereof. The cross beams 160.1, 160.2, 160.3, 160.4 therefore act to connect opposing pulley mounts which assists in balancing loads evenly about the frame.

[0084] Although in the example provided, cross beams are used to support pulley mounts, this is illustrative only and any suitable mounting arrangement for the pulleys may be used. In other examples, pulley mounts may be mounted to the top or side of the frame directly or alternatively the pulleys themselves may be mounted directly to the frame. In some examples, each pulley mount may therefore be independently mounted with respect to the frame.

[0085] In some examples, the cable exercise stations may be reconfigurable and interchangeable so that pulleys from one cable exercise station may be mounted to the frame or pulley mount associated with another cable exercise station. This allows the setup of the mobile gymnasium to be highly configurable and able to be customised for a particular user. In one example, this is achieved by providing a repeatable bolt pattern on the pulley mount associated with each cable exercise station.

[0086] Referring now to Figure ID, there is shown a driver's side 204 of the frame 200. The driver's side 204 of the frame 200 includes a first pulley mount 120 and a second pulley mount 130. First pulley mount 120 is located proximate forward driver's side portion of the frame whilst second pulley mount 130 is located proximate a rearward driver's side portion of the frame. A plurality of pulleys 122 downwardly depend from first pulley mount 120 and guide at least one cable 124 connectable between at least one load 20 and at least one grippable attachment 126 allowing a user to perform a resistance exercise.

[0087] A plurality of pulleys 132 downwardly depend from second pulley mount 130 and guide at least one cable 134 connectable between at least one load 20 and at least one grippable attachment 136 allowing a user to perform a resistance exercise. In particular configurations, the cable machine exercise stations associated with pulley mounts 120, 130 may be configured so that two people can simultaneously each perform a resistance exercise.

[0088] Referring now to Figure IE, there is shown the passenger's side 205 of the frame 200. The passenger's side 205 of the frame 200 includes a third pulley mount 140 and a fourth pulley mount 150. Third pulley mount 140 is located proximate a rearward passenger's side portion of the frame whilst fourth pulley mount 150 is located proximate a forward passenger's side portion of the frame. A plurality of pulleys 142 downwardly depend from third pulley mount 140 and guide cable 144 connectable between a load 20 and a grippable attachment 146 allowing a user to perform a resistance exercise. As will be described in further detail below, grippable attachment 146 may be height adjustable to increase the number of exercises that can be performed at this exercise station whilst accommodating for persons of varying height.

[0089] A plurality of pulleys 152 downwardly depend from fourth pulley mount 150 and guide cable 154 connectable between a load 20 and a grippable attachment 156 allowing a user to perform a resistance exercise. Similar to attachment 146, grippable attachment 156 may also be height adjustable.

[0090] The operation of a first cable exercise station associated with pulley mount 120 shall now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 2A to 2D. Figures 2A and 2B show an example cable arrangement allowing one person to perform a resistance exercise whereas Figures 2C and 2D show an alternative arrangement allowing two people to simultaneously perform a resistance exercise.

[0091] In the example shown in Figures 2A and 2B, pulleys 122.1, 122.2 guide a first cable 124.1 connected between a load 20.1 and a first end of a grippable attachment 126. Further pulleys 122.3, 122.4 guide a second cable 124.2 between another load 20.2 and a second end of grippable attachment 126. Accordingly, pulleys 122.1, 122.2 are spaced apart in planar alignment to guide cable 124.1 whilst likewise, pulleys 122.3, 122.4 are also spaced apart in planar alignment to each other. In one example, in use, a person performs a pull down exercise while seated on seat 60 by pulling down on grippable attachment 126.

[0092] Typically, each load is a weight stack which includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage that includes a base 26 and a support post 24 upstanding from the base 26 that slidably receives the one or more weight plates. In this way, the weight plates may be stacked vertically on top of each other. The carriage also typically includes a cable attachment portion 22 to which one end of a cable is attached.

[0093] The movable carriage is slidably coupled to at least one guide rail which extends between the pulley mount 120 and a floor 112 of the chassis 110, such that in use, the carriage is movable up and down the at least one guide rail. In the example shown, each carriage includes a pair of guide sleeves 27, 28 that are slidably engaged around a pair of guide rails 125.1, 125.2 and 125.3, 125.4 respectively. For example, guide rails 125.1, 125.2 are slidably engaged with sleeves 27, 28 of load 20.1 and guide rails 125.3, 125.4 are slidably engaged with corresponding guide sleeves 27, 28 of load 20.2. The slidable engagement allows each carriage to move axially along the respective guide rails as a person performs a resistance exercise. Any appropriate number of guide sleeves may be used, and in a further example, the movable carriage includes a pair of spaced apart guide sleeves which slidably engage with each guide rail.

[0094] The weight plates are standard plates known in the art having a central aperture allowing the plates to be removably stacked onto support post 24. The use of a removably stackable weight plate arrangement with the above described cable exercise apparatus is advantageous as it allows plates to be loaded onto and off of the stack as desired in order to increase or decrease the load. Further advantages of this weight stack arrangement will be described below.

[0095] In Figures 2C and 2D, there is shown an example where multiple grippable attachments 126.1, 126.2 are connected to the cable exercise station. A first attachment 126.1 is connected to a cable 124.1 guided by pulleys 122.1, 122.2 while the second attachment 126.2 is connected to a cable 124.2 guided by pulleys 122.3, 122.4. The first attachment 126.1 is usable by a person to lift load 20.1 while the second attachment is usable by a second person simultaneously to lift load 20.2.

[0096] The operation of a second cable exercise station associated with pulley mount 130 shall now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 3A to 3D. Figures 3A and 3B show an example cable arrangement allowing a person to perform a first example of a resistance exercise whereas Figures 2C and 2D show an alternative arrangement allowing a person to perform a second type of resistance exercise.

[0097] In the example shown in Figures 3 A and 3B, a first cable 134.1 runs around pulleys 132.1, 132.2 from a load 20.3 while a second cable 134.2 runs around pulleys 132.3, 132.4 from a load 20.4. Accordingly, pulleys 132.1, 132.2 are spaced apart in planar alignment to guide cable 134.1 whilst similarly, pulleys 132.3, 132.4 are also spaced apart in planar alignment to each other to guide cable 134.2. Third and fourth cables 134.3, 134.4 are attached proximate pulleys 132.2, 132.3 respectively to caribiners or similar clips located at terminal ends of the first and second cables. The third and fourth cables extend down to a lower pulley arrangement 137 mounted to a seat tube of seat 50. A grippable attachment 136 is attached to a caribiner or clip proximate pulley arrangement 137 to thereby connect the grippable attachment 136 to the third and fourth cables.

[0098] In one example, in use, a person performs a seated row exercise while seated on seat 50 by pulling grippable attachment 136. In this example, the grippable attachment is an apparatus having a pair of handles for gripping with each hand although many other suitable attachments could be used. [0099] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, cables 134.1, 134.2 may extend from respective loads 20.3, 20.4 over pulleys 132.1, 132.2 and 132.3, 132.4 respectively to grippable attachment 136.1 which in the example shown is a type of pull down bar. This permits a user to perform a seated (or standing) pull-down resistance exercise utilising both loads 20.3, 20.4. For this example, further cables 134.3, 134.4 would not be required.

[0100] As previously described, each load 20.3, 20.4 is a weight stack which includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage configured to slide up and down respective guide rails 135.1, 135.2, 135.3, 135.4.

[0101] The operation of a third cable exercise station associated with pulley mount 140 shall now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 4A to 4C.

[0102] In this example, pulleys 142.1, 142.2, 142.3, 142.4 downwardly depend from pulley mount 140 and guide a cable 144 connecting a load 20.5 and a grippable attachment 146. In one example, grippable attachment 146 is height adjustable. The height of grippable attachment 146 is adjusted by sliding a height adjustment mechanism 149 up and down a guide post 147 which has a plurality of spaced apart apertures receivable of a locking pin 149.4 which secures the height adjustment mechanism 149 to the guide post 147 at a desired height.

[0103] The height adjustment mechanism 149 is shown in more detail in Figure 5. The mechanism 149 includes a body sleeved over the guide post 147 which is capable of sliding up and down the post 147. A pulley 149.1 is mounted to the body for guiding a first end of the cable 144 connected to grippable attachment 146. A further pulley 147.1 is mounted to a base 147.2 of the guide post 147. A second end of the cable passes around pulley 147.1 and is attached to a fixing point 147.2 on the body of the height adjustment mechanism 149.

[0104] The cable 144 is routed from grippable attachment 146 under pulley 149.1 and then up and over pulleys 142.4 and 142.2. It is then routed down under pulley 25 mounted to the load and back up and over pulleys 142.1 and 142.3. It is then routed down under pulley 147.1 attached to the base 147.2 of the guide post 147 where it is terminated at fixing point 147.2 on the height adjustment mechanism. This arrangement permits the height adjustment mechanism 149 to slide axially up and down the guide post 147 without moving the load 20.5. The load 20.5 is only moved when a user pulls grippable attachment 146 to perform a resistance exercise. In this arrangement, pulleys 142.4 and 142.2 are spaced apart in a first plane while pulleys 142.1 and 142.3 are spaced apart in a second plane.

[0105] As previously described, the load 20.5 is typically a weight stack which includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage configured to slide up and down guide rails 145.1, 145.2 which extend between the pulley mount 140 and the floor 112 of the chassis 110. The only difference between the weight stack as previously described is that a pulley 25 is mounted to the carriage (see Figure 6) in order to accommodate the height adjustable grippable attachment 146. In particular, the pulley 25 is mounted to the cable attachment portion 22 which in one form is a U-shaped member upstanding from the base 26 of the carriage.

[0106] The operation of a fourth cable exercise station associated with pulley mount 150 shall now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 7A to 7C.

[0107] In this example, pulleys 152.1, 152.2, 152.3, 152.4 downwardly depend from pulley mount 150 and guide a cable 154 connecting a load 20.6 and a grippable attachment 156. In one example, grippable attachment 156 is height adjustable. The height of grippable attachment 156 is adjusted by sliding a height adjustment mechanism 159 up and down a guide post 157 which has a plurality of spaced apart apertures receivable of a guide pin which secures the height adjustment mechanism 159 to the guide post 157 at a desired height.

[0108] The height adjustment mechanism 159 includes a body sleeved over the guide post 157 which is capable of sliding up and down the post 157. A pulley 159.1 is mounted to the body for guiding a first end of the cable 154 connected to grippable attachment 156. A further pulley 157.1 is mounted to a base of the guide post 157. A second end of the cable passes around pulley 157.1 and is attached to a fixing point on the body of the height adjustment mechanism 149.

[0109] The cable 154 is routed from grippable attachment 156 under pulley 159.1 and then up and over pulleys 152.4 and 152.2. It is then routed down under pulley 25 mounted to the load and back up and over pulleys 152.1 and 152.3. It is then routed down under pulley 157.1 attached to the of the guide post 157 where it is terminated at the fixing point on the height adjustment mechanism 159. As previously described, this arrangement permits the height adjustment mechanism 159 to slide axially up and down the guide post 157 without moving the load 20.6. The load 20.6 is only moved when a user pulls grippable attachment 156 to perform a resistance exercise. In this arrangement, pulleys 152.4 and 152.2 are spaced apart in a first plane while pulleys 152.1 and 152.3 are spaced apart in a second plane.

[0110] As previously described, the load 20.6 is typically a weight stack which includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage configured to slide up and down guide rails 155.1, 155.2 which extend between the pulley mount 150 and the floor 112 of the chassis 110.

[0111] A single user may use each of the third and fourth cable exercise stations to perform a variety of resistance exercises permitted by the selection of grippable attachment and use of the height adjustment mechanism. Alternatively, a single user may use both cable exercise stations simultaneously. For example, a user may hold grippable attachments 146 and 156 and use them to perform a chest fly exercise or similar. It is to be appreciated that whilst the third and fourth cable exercise stations have been described as having a height adjustable grippable attachment, any of the cable exercise stations may be configured to have height adjustable grippable attachments.

[0112] As previously described, the mobile gymnasium 100 may be configured to have one or more seats 50, 60 enabling a user to perform a seated exercise. In one example, the seats are removably securable to the chassis 110. By way of example, seat 60, as shown in Figure 8 is attached to a seat tube 62 which is slidably engaged within a complementary tube 64 mounted to the chassis 110. Typically, the complementary tube 64 is mounted to structure beneath the chassis 110. The seat tube 62 is slidably adjustable within the complementary tube 64 to vary a distance of the seat 60 away from the chassis 110. The position of the seat 60 may be locked by inserting a locking pin 65 through apertures located in the seat tube 62 and complementary tube 64. Seat 50 used for example to perform a seated row exercise may have a pivotable leg which extends from the seat 50 to a ground surface in order to increase support for the seat 50 (see Figure 3 A). In another example, one or more of the seats may be positioned inside the frame.

[0113] The frame 200 of the mobile gymnasium 100 shall now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 9 A and 9B. Generally, the frame 200 has a rectangular box structure that is preferably externally cladded as illustrated in the previous figures. In Figures 9A and 9B, the frame 200 is shown with cladding removed for clarity. The basic frame construction consists of a base defined by longitudinal members 210.1, 210.2 and lateral or transverse members 220.1, 220.2 which connect to the longitudinal members 210.1, 210.2 to form a rectangular shape. Upstanding from each corner of the base are vertical members 230.1, 230.2, 230.3 and 230.4. The box structure is completed by joining the ends of vertical members 230.2, 230.4 with longitudinal member 210.4 and by joining the ends of vertical members 230.1, 230.3 with longitudinal member 210.3. The frame may include further structural members to provide additional strength and rigidity to the structure. The frame 200 may also include provision for a door to provide access to an interior of the frame when assembled and covered in cladding. In one example, a door may be located at the rear of the frame.

[0114] In one example, the frame defines an interior used to store exercise equipment. As shown in Figure 9B, the exercise equipment may be stored around an inner periphery of the frame such as along respective sides thereof. To facilitate this, the frame may include at least one support member extending along the inner periphery for supporting a plurality of posts that allow weight plates to be stacked in a storage configuration. Typically, the at least one support member extends in a direction of elongation of the frame. In the example shown, a first support member 240.1 extends along a driver's side of the frame and a second support member 240.2 extends along a passenger's side of the frame within the box structure.

[0115] Typically, the support members 240.1, 240.2 are elevated from the base of the frame. As shown in Figure 9A, in one example, support member 240.1 for example is connected to frame members 240.3 and 240.4 at one end and to a vertical door frame member 230.5 at the other end. It will be appreciated that support member 240.1 could be mounted with in the frame 200 in any number of suitable alternative ways so that it is spaced from the base and side of the frame.

[0116] Weight plates 20 may be stacked on support posts 250 that project upward from support members 240.1, 240.2. Having weight plates able to be stacked on either side of the frame allows weight to be evenly distributed about the chassis which assists in ensuring that during transport, the wheels and tyres are evenly loaded to help reduce wear.

[0117] The ability to load plates onto the cable exercise stations in an in use configuration and then to remove them and load them onto support posts inside the frame in a storage configuration is particularly advantageous. This design minimises the total weight that the mobile gymnasium 100 needs to transport which makes the overall gymnasium lighter and therefore minimises transportation costs including fuel. A traditional cable machine has a weight stack consisting of a number of plates that cannot be removed from the stack. The load lifted can be varied but the total weight of the cable machine remains the same. If a traditional cable machine weight stack were used in a mobile gymnasium, the full weight of each stack would need to be transported. In this arrangement, weight plates are loaded onto the cable stations as required meaning that fewer plates are required to be stored, particularly given that not all weight stacks are always going to be used simultaneously.

[0118] As shown in Figure 9B, a plurality of storage containers 40 for storing exercise equipment including various attachments are positionable at least partly below the at least one support member 240.1, 240.2. In this way, the storage containers 40 may be stored along the sides of the frame beneath the weight plates to assist in even weight distribution on the chassis during transport. In one example, a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart struts 260 extend between a base member 210.1, 210.2 of the frame 200 and the at least one support member 240.1, 240.2, the struts acting to separate storage containers 40 and having anchor points 270 used in tethering the storage containers 40 to the frame 200. In the example shown, a pair of storage containers 40 may be arranged side by side between adjacent struts 260 or anchor points 270 so that the storage containers 40 are conveniently tethered in pairs. Any other suitable arrangement of struts and anchor points could be used to assist in securing the storage boxes inside the frame. [0119] In addition to having one or more cable exercise stations, the mobile gymnasium 100 may be integrated with further structure enabling users to perform additional exercises. For example, with reference to Figure ID, the mobile gymnasium 100 may include at least one upright member 180 located proximate a forward end of the chassis 1 10 that is coupled to the frame 200 and which permits attachment of various items of exercise equipment. In the example shown, the upright member 180 has a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner. For example, height adjustable dip bars 184, 186 may be secured to the upright to enable a user to perform dips or other bodyweight exercises. The apertures on the upright member 180 may be configured to permit attachments to be secured in different orientations such as for example by providing an upright having apertures in adjacent faces. This permits multiple attachments to be used on the upright member 180 simultaneous. Dip bars 184, 186 as illustrated are effectively orthogonal to one another to permit two users to perform the exercise at the same time.

[0120] The upright member 180 typically extends from a base of the chassis and is coupled to the frame 200 by structural members such as bars or rails 182. In the example shown in Figure ID, a pair of bars 182 extend from a top of the upright member 180 to respective pulley mounts 120, 150. Bars 182 may be used to perform additional exercises such as pull ups.

[0121] In use, the mobile gymnasium 100 may further include one or more height adjustable support legs 170 that extend between the chassis 1 10 and a ground surface. Typically the support legs 170 are located at a rear end of the chassis 1 10 and are pivotably mounted to the chassis 1 10. In addition to providing support to the chassis 1 10, the legs 170 may also be used as an attachment point for one end of a barbell 172. In one example, an end of a barbell 172 is pivotably mountable to a support leg 170 enabling a user to perform a T-bar row.

[0122] The rear of the mobile gymnasium 100 may also be used to perform additional exercises. In one example, a pair of laterally spaced apart upright members 190 are mounted to a rear end of the frame 200 via brackets 192, 194 (see Figure IE). The upright members 190.1, 190.2 have a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner. In one example, the attachments securable to the upright members 190 provide support for a barbell 196. In some examples, the upright members 190.1, 190.2 may be configured to fold inward with respect to the rear end 207 of the frame 200 for storage and transport. Additionally, in a further example the upright members 190.1, 190.2 could be re-positioned so that they mount to a side of the frame either next to or as an alternative to one of the cable exercise stations, for example to enable a user to have a squat rack on a side of the frame.

[0123] In Figure 10A there is shown a first use of upright members 190.1, 190.2 that are mounted to the rear of the frame 200. In this example, the upright members 190.1, 190.2 are used to provide a squat rack. A pair of slidably adjustable barbell support brackets 195.1, 195.2 are secured to the upright members 190.1, 190.2 respectively at a level whereby a standing user can lift the barbell 196 from the rack to perform a leg squat, lunge etc. Optionally, a pair of safety arms 198.1, 198.2 may also be secured to the upright members 190.1, 190.2 below the barbell attachment which acts as a safety stop to rest or drop the barbell minimising the risk of any injury to the user.

[0124] In the example shown in Figure 10B, the safety arms are removed and the barbell support brackets 195.1, 195.2 are lowered towards the ground at a height convenient for a user laying on a bench 80 to perform a bench press exercise for example.

[0125] From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that in one aspect the present invention provides a mobile gymnasium in the form of a vehicle trailer usable by a person to perform a resistance exercise. The trailer includes a wheeled chassis for towing behind a vehicle, a frame upstanding from the chassis and one or more cable exercise stations disposed about an outer periphery of the frame. The or each cable exercise station includes a pulley mount fixed proximate a top or side of the frame and one or more pulleys securable to the pulley mount for guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow the person to perform the resistance exercise.

[0126] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that in at least one example the above described mobile gymnasium provides a convenient and simple system for users such as personal trainers to conduct fitness and weight training classes. The system requires very little setup before each use and provides flexibility in terms of the exercises that can be performed by providing one or more cable exercise stations that can be configured to perform a variety of exercises. Fabrication of the mobile gymnasium is simple and in use, it utilises space efficiently and is a very compact design.

[0127] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0128] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1) A mobile gymnasium, including:

a) a wheeled chassis;

b) a frame upstanding from the chassis; and,

2) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 1, wherein the one or more pulleys are configured so that the at least one cable runs exterior to the frame.

3) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more pulleys are disposed about an outer periphery of the frame.

4) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more pulleys are fixed in overhanging relation to a side of the frame.

5) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more pulleys are fixed proximate a top of the frame.

6) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more pulleys are mounted directly to the frame.

7) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more pulleys are securable to a pulley mount that is fixed proximate a top or side of the frame.

8) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 7, wherein the pulley mount is a plate or rail.

9) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the pulley mount overhangs a side of the frame.

10) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 9, further including one or more cross beams secured to the top of the frame for supporting the pulley mount.

11) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 10, wherein the one or more cross beams support pulley mounts at opposing ends thereof about opposing sides of the frame.

12) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the load is a weight stack.

13) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 12, wherein the weight stack includes one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage. 14) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 13, wherein the movable carriage includes a base and a support post upstanding from the base that slidably receives the one or more weight plates.

15) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the movable carriage is slidably coupled to at least one guide rail which extends between the pulley mount and a floor of the chassis, such that in use, the carriage is movable up and down the at least one guide rail.

16) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame has a rectangular box structure.

17) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 16, wherein the frame is externally cladded.

18) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 17, wherein the frame defines an interior used to store exercise equipment.

19) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 18, wherein the exercise equipment is stored around an inner periphery of the frame.

20) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 19, wherein the frame includes at least one support member extending along the inner periphery for supporting a plurality of posts that allow weight plates to be stacked in a storage configuration.

21) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 20, wherein the at least one support member extends in a direction of elongation of a side of the frame.

22) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 21, wherein a plurality of storage containers are positionable at least partly below the at least one support member.

23) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 22, wherein a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart struts extend between a base member of the frame and the at least one support member, the struts acting to separate storage containers and having anchor points used in tethering the storage containers to the frame.

24) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a pair of upright members mounted to a rear end of the frame, the upright members having a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner.

25) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 24, wherein attachments secured to the upright members provide support for a barbell. 26) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more height adjustable support legs that extend between the chassis and a ground surface.

27) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 26, wherein the one or more support legs are pivotably mounted to the chassis.

28) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein one end of a barbell is pivotably mountable to a support leg enabling a user to perform a T-bar row.

29) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more seats enabling a user to perform a seated exercise are removably securable to the chassis.

30) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 29, wherein the one or more seats are attached to a seat tube which is slidably engaged within a complementary tube mounted to the chassis.

31) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 30, wherein the seat tube is slidably adjustable within the complementary tube to vary a distance of the seat away from the chassis.

32) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one upright member located proximate a forward end of the chassis and coupled to the frame, the at least one upright member having a plurality of vertically spaced apart apertures that permit attachments to be secured in a height adjustable manner.

33) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wheeled chassis is towable behind a vehicle.

34) A mobile gymnasium according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grippable attachment is height adjustable.

35) A mobile gymnasium, including:

a) a wheeled chassis;

b) a frame upstanding from the chassis;

36) A mobile gymnasium according to claim 35, wherein a first pulley mount is positioned proximate a forward driver's side portion of the frame, a second pulley mount is positioned proximate a rearward driver's side portion of the frame, a third pulley mount is positioned proximate a rearward passenger's side portion of the frame and a fourth pulley mount is positioned proximate a forward passenger's side portion of the frame.

37) A vehicle trailer usable by a person to perform a resistance exercise, the trailer including: a) a wheeled chassis for towing behind a vehicle;

b) a frame upstanding from the chassis; and,

i) a pulley mount fixed proximate a top or side of the frame; and,

ii) one or more pulleys securable to the pulley mount for guiding at least one cable connectable between a load and a grippable attachment to allow the person to perform the resistance exercise.

38) A vehicle trailer according to claim 37, wherein the one or more cable exercise stations include:

d) a fourth cable exercise station located proximate a rear passenger's side portion of the frame.

39) A vehicle trailer according to claim 37 or claim 38 wherein one or more of the grippable attachments are height adjustable.

40) A vehicle trailer according to any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein the cable exercise stations are reconfigurable enabling pulleys from one cable exercise station to be mounted to a pulley mount of another cable exercise station.

41) A vehicle trailer according to any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein the load is a weight stack including one or more removable weight plates stackable onto a movable carriage having a support post for receiving the weight plates. 42) A vehicle trailer according to any one of claims 37 to 41, wherein the frame defines an interior used to store exercise equipment.