Self Spotting Physical Training Method

Inventor: Chi Apex LLC  

Date: November 12, 2011

Self Spotting Physical Training Method

 1.      Field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of physical exercises, particularly to strength training and muscle building.

2.      Background of the invention

For strength training, there are several concepts including:

• Isometrics: Static Isometric resistance training refers to muscular action during which no change in the length of the muscle takes place. Static Isometric exercises develop static strength. This is the strength one needs to push or pull a heavy object or hold it up. The Dynamic Isometric exercise concept is referred as an exercise technique wherein the trainee uses force applied symmetrically by opposite sides of his body or by two different body parts such as leg versus arm, substantially without any external resistance. The motion includes (“positive”) concentric phase wherein the muscle contracts to produce movement and (“negative”) eccentric phase wherein the muscle lengthens to produce movement. The load can be applied directly or via a device, the two body members are alternately subjected to opposite motion phase: when one is in (“positive”) concentric phase, then the other is in (“negative”) eccentric phase, and vice versa. The most advantage of this technique is that the exerciser controls the resistance, speed, and pre-stretch; unfortunately, the advantage is also the disadvantage since the exerciser needs to master the technique to enjoy the best benefits. For rehabilitation, the Static Isometric mode is commonly used pre and post operatively or when pain associated with motion is a factor. Isometric contractions are effective at developing strength and decreasing joint effusion while avoiding painful points in the range of motion. Static Isometric exercises have great benefits for joint rehabilitation programs because by definition they involve no movement and so can be performed in joint positions that produce no pain or excessive stress, which avoids jeopardizing the healing process of the injury. In addition, useful isometric exercises can be performed in any house without any equipment.

·        Dynamic Constant External Resistance: Used to be called isotonic exercise. Muscle exerts a constant tension. The motion includes a concentric (“positive”) phase wherein the muscle contracts to produce movement and an eccentric (“negative”) phase wherein the muscle lengthens to produce movement. The weight on a machine or bar stays constant but at the various angles in a range of motion there are changes in the mechanical advantage, thus the force exerted by the muscle is not constant.

·        Variable Resistance Training: using cams, lever arms and pulleys, 
these types of machines alter the resistance in an attempt to match the increases and decreases in strength throughout the exercises range of motion. These are typical strength curves:

o       Ascending strength curve = squat, easier at the top.

o       Descending strength curve = upright row, easier at the bottom.

o       Bell-shaped curve = biceps curl easier in the middle.

No machine has been enabling to match the three types of strength curves or be able to accommodate differences in body height and limb lengths. Lots of studies using various combinations of sets and reps have determined that dynamic variable resistance can cause significant increases in strength.

·        Eccentric Training: Also called “negative” training refers to a muscular action in which the muscle lengthens in a controlled manner. Eccentric force output is greater than concentric output – one can lower more than you can lift so strength can be improve greatly. This training technique usually requires a spotter to assist with the concentric phase of the lift since the optimum load for the eccentric phase is greater than the load that the trainee can lift during the concentric phase.

·        Isokinetic Training: Unlike isometric and isotonic contraction, isokinetic contractions provide muscle training throughout the range of motion (ROM) of a joint at a pre-set, constant speed of contractions. When a specific speed is reached the device will automatically accommodate to give resistance to each point in the range of motion (ROM) while allowing the specific speed to be maintained. If the trainee is working as fast and as hard as he/she can, the muscles will work at the maximum force at all points in the ROM at that particular speed. This type of training is very safe. When the trainee applies force, the device provides resistance. If the force stops, the resistance stops automatically. Force changes caused by muscle length/tension relationship, skeletal leverage, pain or fatigue is then easily accommodated. Though the advantage of being able to train at several contractile speeds has not been specifically illustrated, most athletic events, however, occur at fast speed of contraction. Early studies have shown that strength gained at relatively fast speed of contraction could be carried over into relatively slow speed of contraction.
It can be Concentric or Eccentric. Results of a study suggest Concentric Isokinetic and Eccentric isokinetic training equally improve Concentric muscular torque and rate of torque production. In addition, Eccentric training results in greater Eccentric torque and rate of torque production improvements compared to Concentric training. Another study suggests: The preloaded isokinetic exhibited retention of strength and endurance gains for as long as a year. The results indicated that the preloaded isokinetic yielded superior gains in strength and endurance as compared with the pure isokinetic except for isometric endurance. The observed retention of gains in the preloaded isokinetic during follow-ups may help direct rehabilitation to include eccentrics with isokinetic training. Plyometrics Training: The word plyometric is beginning to be replaced by the term “stretch-shortening cycle exercise”. This refers to the sequence of: Eccentric>isometric>concentric.
When the sequence of eccentric to concentric action is performed quickly; the muscle is stretched slightly prior to the concentric action. 
The slight stretching stores elastic energy, which is added to the normal force developed only by the concentric muscle action. The pre-stretch might also result in quicker recruitment of muscle fibers. Elastic energy may account for a 30% increase in force production. It’s important to introduce stretch-shortening training slowly into the program and keep the volume of training relatively low.

None of the above training techniques can meet all of these advantages that produce effective results and can be cost effective:

·        Producing Maximum load (resistance) that matches the trainee maximum capacity through out the range of motion and through out the course of training for each and every repetition of every set.

·        The generated Eccentric load (resistance) is greater than the generated Concentric load (resistance).

·        Providing Preload (Pre-stretch) before the motion.

·        Feasibility for injury rehabilitation.

·        Control of motion speed through out the range of motion.

·        The means to monitor the load and the speed of the training motion.

·        The ease of training.

·        Safe training, minimum risk of injury.

·        Without the need for an assistant such as a spotter.

·        Low cost to produce and maintain the training equipments.

In a training concept wherein the trainee is trained using weight equipments with the assistance of a spotter who is equipped with all necessary tools to monitor the resistance and speed of the motion, the spotter applies additional load during both concentric phase and eccentric phase to ensure maximum load (resistance) that matches the trainee maximum capacity through out the range of motion and though out the course of training for each and every repetition of every set, Eccentric load (resistance) to be greater than the generated Concentric load (resistance), and safe training with minimum risk of injury, then this training concept would meet all desirable criteria except for the fact that the spotter assistance is not cheap. However, if the spotter is the trainee himself, then the expense or trouble in obtaining the spotter assistance can be eliminated, and that is the core idea of this invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND OBJECTS

The objects of this invention is to provide physical training method and system that meet these criteria:

·        Producing Maximum load (resistance) that matches the trainee maximum capacity through out the range of motion and through out the course of training for each and every repetition of every set.

·        The generated Eccentric load (resistance) is greater than the generated Concentric load (resistance).

·        Providing Preload (Pre-stretch) before the motion.

·        Feasibility for injury rehabilitation.

·        Control of motion speed through out the range of motion.

·        The means to monitor the load and the speed of the training motion.

·        The ease of training.

·        Safe training, minimum risk of injury.

·        Without the need for an assistant such as spotter.

·        Low cost to produce and maintain the training equipments.

To achieve the above objective, this invention proposes:

Self Spotting Exercise method wherein a trainee’s body member unit referred a trainee body unit is subjected to a training load, which is the sum of:

·        an isotonic load provided by an isometric load, applied directly or indirectly by an external isotonic loading source such as a weight stack,

·        a self spotting load applied by a trainer body unit, the said self spotting load varies  its direction and magnitude to maintain the training load at the most effective magnitude.

Each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG.1: demonstrates the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder and right Arm/Shoulder with reducing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (Cable & Pulley system).

FIG.2: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with reducing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (Cable & Pulley system).

FIG.3: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with increasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (Cable & Pulley system).

FIG.4: demonstrates the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder with reducing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG.5: demonstrates the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder with increasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG.6: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with increasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG.7: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with decreasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG.8: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with increasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system)

FIG.9: demonstrates the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left Arm/Torso with decreasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system)

FIG.10: demonstrates the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder with reducing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG.11: demonstrates the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder with increasing load spotting using a preferred embodiment of the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System of the present invention (swiveling bar system).

FIG. 12-16: illustrate alternative designs for the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System with swiveling bar & handle poles system of the present invention).

FIG.17: illustrates alternative designs for the Self Spotting Physical Exercise System with a Weight lifting bench and Olympic barbell bar.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As partially illustrated in FIG.1, wherein FIG.1 demonstrate the Shoulder Lift muscle training for left arm triceps and left shoulder using a preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the present invention, which comprises:

• Interconnecting means that includes attachment means 1 such as handles, stirrups, hand grips, straps, pedals at each end of a flexible cable 2 for the trainee’s right hands 3R to apply self spotting load 10R to left hand 3L through the cable 2, the said cable 2 runs through a pulley system 4 including at least one pulley, which is connected to the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame via a supporting means comprising a supporting bracket 6 and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell to monitor the supporting load 11, the length of the supporting bracket 6 is adjustable to accommodate for the trainee height;
• A primary load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or indirectly applying a primary load 9 that is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity of the attachment interconnecting means to one of the trainee’s hands; for left Arm/Shoulder training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s left hand 3L via the attachment means 1. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads equals zero.

During left Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG.1, as the right arm pulls the cable 2 while moving in reciprocal motion, to keep the total load balanced the left arm 12L must exert a load 10L that equals to the primary load 9 imposed by the primary load generating means 8 minus the self spotting load 10 R produced by the right arm 12R in order to impose the total load to the left arm 12L at the left arm maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions. This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

As partially illustrated in FIG.2, wherein FIG.2 demonstrate the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left bicep and left Arm/Torso using a preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the present invention, which comprises:

• Interconnecting means that includes attachment means 1 such as handles, stirrups, hand grips, straps, pedals at each end of a flexible cable 2 for the trainee’s right hands 3R to apply self spotting load 10R to left hand 3L through the cable 2, the said cable 2 runs through a pulley system 4 including at least one pulley, which is connected to the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame via a supporting means comprising a supporting bracket 6 and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell to monitor the supporting load 11, the length of the supporting bracket 6 is adjustable to accommodate for the trainee height;
• A primary load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or indirectly applying a primary load 9 that is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity of the attachment interconnecting means to one of the trainee’s hands; for left Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s right hand 3R via the attachment means 1. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads equals zero.

During left Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG.2, as both arms pull the cable 2 while moving in reciprocal motion, to keep the total load balanced the left arm 12L must exert a load 10L that equals to the primary load 9 imposed by the primary load generating means 8 minus the self spotting load 10R to impose the total load to the left arm 12L at the left arm maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions. This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

As partially illustrated in FIG.3, wherein FIG.3 demonstrate the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training for left bicep and left Arm/Torso using a preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the present invention, which comprises:

• Interconnecting means that includes attachment means 1 such as handles, stirrups, hand grips, straps, pedals at each end of a flexible cable 2 for the trainee’s right hands 3R to apply self spotting load 10R to left hand 3L through the cable 2, the said cable 2 runs through a pulley system 4 including at least one pulley, which is connected to the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame via a supporting means comprising a supporting bracket 6 and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell to monitor the supporting load 11, the length of the supporting bracket 6 is adjustable to accommodate for the trainee height;
• A primary load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or indirectly applying a primary load 9 that is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity of the attachment interconnecting means to one of the trainee’s hands; for left Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s right hand 3R via the attachment means 1. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads equals zero.

During left Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG.3, as both arms pull the cable 2 while moving in reciprocal motion, to keep the total load balanced the left arm 12L must exert a load 10L that equals to the self spotting load 10 R produced by the right arm 12R plus the primary load 9 imposed by the primary load generating means 8 in order to impose the total load to the left arm 12L at the left arm maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions. This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

An alternative design is partially illustrated in FIG.4 to FIG.11, wherein the system comprises:

• Interconnecting means that comprisess attachment means 1 such as handles, hand grips, straps, pedals at each end of a bar 13 for the trainee’s right hands 3R and left hand 3L to apply self spotting load 10R and 10L against each other through the bar 13, a supporting means comprising a connecting bracket 14 with swivel ends and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell for monitoring the supporting load 11 to connect the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame to the said bar 13 at a location between the two attachment means 1, the length of the connecting bracket 14 is adjustable to accommodate for the trainee’s height. During training, the reciprocal motion of the arms is produced by the reciprocal rotation of the bar.
• A primary load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or indirectly applying a primary load 9 that is independent from the bar 13 instantaneous motion velocity direction to one of the trainee’s hands; for right Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s left hand 3L via the attachment means 1; alternately for left Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s right hand 3R via the attachment means 1; the primary load generating means 8 can be slid along the bar 13 to vary the effective primary load. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads.

During right Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG.8, as both arms pull the bar 13 while moving in opposite directions during reciprocal rotation of the said bar 13, to keep the total load balanced the left arm 3L must exert a load that equals to the sum of the self spotting load produced by the right arm 3R and the primary load 9 imposed by the primary load generating means 8; since the left arm 12L must exert greater load than the right arm 12R, the left arm 12L is the trainee member and the right arm 12R is the trainer member. With the assistance of the primary load 9, the right arm 12R only needs to exert a spotting load that is below its maximum endured capacity through out the routine in order to impose the total load to the left arm 12L at the right arm maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions.

It is obvious that the above asymmetric training concept is applicable for training two body member units that apply self spotting load against each other, with each body member unit includes at least one trainee’s body member such as hand, foot, arm, leg, elbow, head or a combination.

An alternative design is partially illustrated in FIG.12 to FIG.14, wherein the system comprises:

• Interconnecting means that includes attachment means 1 such as handles, hand grips, straps, pedals at each end of a bar 13 for the trainee’s right hands 3R and left hand 3L to apply self spotting load 10R and 10L against each other through the bar 13, a supporting means comprising a connecting bracket 14 with swivel ends and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell for monitoring the supporting load 11 to connect the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame to the said bar 13 at a location between the two attachment means 1, the length of the connecting bracket 14 is adjustable to accommodate for the trainee’s height. During training, the reciprocal motion of the arms is produced by the reciprocal rotation of the bar.
• Handle pole comprising an elongated member 101 such as a rod or tube, and an attachment means 1 attached to the said elongated member 101 at an adjustable location on each side of the said elongated member 101, the said handle pole is attached to interconnecting means at an adjustable location by a pivot able and detachable joining means 102 allowing the said handle pole to pivot and be detached from the interconnecting means. Some application requires both handle poles as shown in FIG.13 and FIG.14, some other application requires only one handle pole as shown in FIG.15 and FIG.16.
• A primary load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or indirectly applying a primary load 9 that is independent from the bar 13 instantaneous motion velocity direction to one of the trainee’s hands; for right Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s left hand 3L via the attachment means 1; alternately for left Arm/Torso training, the primary load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee’s right hand 3R via the attachment means 1; the primary load generating means 8 can be slid along the bar 13 to vary the effective primary load. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads equals zero.

During right Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG.8, as both arms pull the bar 13 while moving in opposite directions during reciprocal rotation of the said bar 13, to keep the total load balanced the left arm 3L must exert a load that equals to the sum of the self spotting load produced by the right arm 3R and the primary load 9 imposed by the primary load generating means 8; since the left arm 12L must exert greater load than the right arm 12R, the left arm 12L is the trainee member and the right arm 12R is the trainer member. With the assistance of the primary load 9, the right arm 12R only needs to exert a spotting load that is below its maximum endured capacity through out the routine in order to impose the total load to the left arm 12L at the right arm maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions.

It is obvious that the above asymmetric training concept is applicable for training two body member units that apply self spotting load against each other, with each body member unit includes at least one trainee’s body member such as hand, foot, arm, leg, elbow, head or a combination.

The exercise steps for each training method are described and illustrated by the following figures and descriptions:

FIG 1: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, said attachment interconnecting means comprises a pulley system that comprises at least one pulley positioned above the exerciser, a flexible cable that runs through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is connected to each attachment means, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary training loading load referred as primary load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component with downward direction,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load downward to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit pull the trainer body unit attachment means downward to apply a self spotting load upward to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means, This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 2: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, said attachment interconnecting means comprises a pulley system that comprises at least one pulley positioned above the exerciser, a flexible cable that runs through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is connected to each attachment means, and a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary training loading load referred as primary load indirectly to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component with upward direction at the trainee body unit,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load upward to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means wherein the self spotting load applied to the trainee body unit comprises an upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 3: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, said attachment interconnecting means comprises a pulley system that comprises at least one pulley positioned above the exerciser, a flexible cable that runs through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is connected to each attachment means, and a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary training loading load referred as primary load indirectly to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component with upward direction at the trainee body unit,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load upward to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means, wherein the self spotting load applied to the trainee body unit comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

FIG 4 illustrates A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

Wherein the primary load comprises a downward component at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 5 A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

Wherein the primary load comprises a downward component at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

FIG 6. A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises a upward component at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

FIG 7: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises upward component at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit. This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 8: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

FIG 9: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 10: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises a upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Negative Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load minus the self spotting load.

FIG 11: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means.

wherein the primary load comprises an upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit and the self spotting load comprises an upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit.

This training method is categorized & referred as Positive Spotting method wherein the training load applied to the trainee body unit equals to the primary load plus the self spotting load.

For obtaining the best result, the most efficient training technique must have the trainee body unit subjected to maximum training load during each reciprocal motion cycle including concentric motion, eccentric motion and stationary mode through out the training set for each repetition, as the trainee body unit strength decreases along the course of training. This can be achieved by having the primary load set at a magnitude wherein the spotting is started with a positive spotting, which magnitude is gradually decreased to no spotting, and then the spotting moved to negative spotting.

In some application, it is more effective to employ a self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training (FIG.12) comprises:

• Interconnecting means that comprises an elongated member,
• a supporting means comprising a connecting bracket with swivel ends to connect a rigid platform to the said elongated member,
• at least one handle pole comprising an elongated member such as a rod or tube 101, and an attachment means 3R/ 3L attached to the said handle pole elongated member 101 at an variable a location on the said handle pole elongated member, which is connected to said interconnecting means via  joining means 102,
• a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load directly or indirectly to the trainee body unit via interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

Wherein:

the joining means 102 is detachable to allow the said handle pole to be detach from Interconnecting means, the joining means 102 is pivot able.

the said handle pole is attached to interconnecting means at an variable location.

It comprises one handle pole on each side of the Interconnecting means (FIG.13 & FIG.14).

It comprises one handle pole on one side of the Interconnecting means. (FIG.15 & FIG.16)

the supporting means further comprises a load sensing means for monitoring the supporting load.

When a Weight lifting bench 103 and Olympic barbell bar 104 are available, the said supporting means of the interconnecting means 13 comprising a connecting bracket 14 that fastens the said self spotting physical exercise system to one end of the said Olympic barbell bar 104 as illustrated in FIG.17

Weight lifting benches are pieces of equipment that allow a person to do a variety of strength training exercises are.

They can be as simple as a flat bench or more elaborate with many more features. Some benches are fixed and horizontal; others are designed with an incline and have a fixed angle that does not move.

Still others have adjustable Olympic barbell bar supporting means for allowing the user to rise or lower the height of the Olympic barbell bar 104; this feature allows variety of training routines, each requires specific vertical dimension of the pivoting axis of the attachment interconnecting means 13. During training, the Olympic barbell bar must be securely fixed to Olympic barbell bar supporting means, this can be provided by locking means that lock the Olympic barbell bar to Olympic barbell bar supporting means or by applying weight with weight plates at appropriate end or at other location of Olympic barbell bar.

Still others are adjustable allowing the user to raise or lower the height or change the angles of the bench.

The weight bench provides support for a person while they are performing various exercises. In most cases the user is lying on the bench while lifting weights.

Using a weight bench to perform exercises adds depth, dimension and increased range of motion to a workout.

In short, the use of a weight bench enhances the workout so the person exercising gets more benefit from the effort.

They enable a user to change the angle of the muscle group they are working and isolate work on a particular muscle group. As well, a weight bench provides padding, support and safety to the spine to all that use it.

There are a variety of different types of weight benches.

Each has a different purpose. Most standard weight lifting benches are able to withstand and hold lifting up to 185 lbs.

If you are going to be lifting higher amounts of weight the best bet would be to opt for an Olympic version weight bench.

Some benches even come with wheels, which can be a helpful option because that allows the piece of equipment to be easily moved to other areas of your home garage or gym.

Most benches will have an upright rack on one end to hold a barbell with weights. Some will have safety mechanisms and catches to protect the user. These can be particularly helpful if you are lifting by yourself (without a spotter).

Adjustable Weight Benches

These weight lifting benches are very popular and are designed so they can be adjusted to different positions: flat, inclined or declined. This ability to adjust can allow for a greater range of exercises.

Preacher Weight Benches

These are specifically designed for working the biceps. They are designed with pads that are angled so the upper arms and elbow are supported while working out.

Hyper Extension Benches

This type of exercise bench is intended for those desiring to exercise their lower back, gluteus muscles, hamstring and abdominal muscles.

Abdominal Weight Benches

This bench is specifically designed to assist with abdominal exercise. They are declining benches with rollers at the end. Our feet hook under the rollers so you do not slide off the bench.

Olympic Lifting Benches

These are benches that are intended for the serious weight lifter. They are designed to withstand and provide support if lifting weight higher than 185 lbs. They are generally wider that other types of benches and have more padding.

POTENTIAL METHOD CLAIMS

Claim 1: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, said attachment interconnecting means comprises a pulley system that comprises at least one pulley positioned above the exerciser, a flexible cable that runs through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is connected to each attachment means, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary training loading load referred as primary load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component with downward direction,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit pull the trainer body unit attachment means downward to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means,

Claim 2: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 1 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises concentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the opposite direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 3: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 1 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises eccentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the same direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 4: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 1 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises a static mode wherein the moving body member of the trainee body unit remains stationary.

Claim 5: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 1 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion.

Claim 6: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 1 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion and static mode.

Claim 7: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, said attachment interconnecting means comprises a pulley system that comprises at least one pulley positioned above the exerciser, a flexible cable that runs through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is connected to each attachment means, and a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary training loading load referred as primary load indirectly to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component with upward direction at the trainee body unit, performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

Claim 8: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 wherein the self spotting load applied to the trainee body unit comprises an upward component at the trainer body unit and downward at the trainee body unit.

Claim 9: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 wherein the self spotting load applied to the trainee body unit comprises a downward component at the trainer body unit and upward at the trainee body unit.

Claim 10: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises concentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the opposite direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 11: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises eccentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the same direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 12: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises a static mode wherein the moving body member of the trainee body unit remains stationary.

Claim 13: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion.

Claim 14: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 7 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion and static mode.

Claim 15: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load to the trainee body unit, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

Claim 16: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 wherein the primary load comprises a downward component.

Claim 17: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 16 wherein the self spotting load comprises a downward component.

Claim 18: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 16 wherein the self spotting load comprises a upward component.

Claim 19: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 wherein the primary load comprises an upward component.

Claim 20: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 19 wherein the self spotting load comprises a downward component.

Claim 21: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 19 wherein the self spotting load comprises a upward component.

Claim 22: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises concentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the opposite direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 23: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises eccentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the same direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 24: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises a static mode wherein the moving body member of the trainee body unit remains stationary.

Claim 25: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion.

Claim 26: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 15 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion and static mode.

Claim 27: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment, a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to a mounting means and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means, and the supporting means connects to said elongated member at a joint located between the two attachment means, the elongated member can be pivoted about said joint, and a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary loading load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load indirectly to the trainee body unit via attachment interconnecting means.

Claim 28: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 wherein the primary load comprises a downward component.

Claim 29: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 28 wherein the self spotting load comprises a downward component.

Claim 30: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 28 wherein the self spotting load comprises a upward component.

Claim 31: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 wherein the primary load comprises an upward component.

Claim 32: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 31 wherein the self spotting load comprises a downward component.

Claim 33: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 31 wherein the self spotting load comprises a upward component.

Claim 34 A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises concentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the opposite direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 35: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of the trainee body unit comprises eccentric motion wherein the motion direction of the moving body member of the trainee body unit comprises a component parallel to and in the same direction of the primary load direction.

Claim 36: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises a static mode wherein the moving body member of the trainee body unit remains stationary.

Claim 37: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion.

Claim 38: A method of exercising by a trainee as described in claim 27 further comprises the step of performing a movement step wherein the motion of trainee body unit comprises reciprocating motion, which comprises at least one complete training cycle comprising concentric motion, eccentric motion and static mode.

Claim 39: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

performing training steps with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit and trainee body unit to move in reciprocal motion comprising concentric motion and eccentric motion for a plurality of cycles wherein the self spotting comprise positive spotting and negative spotting.

Claim 40: A method of exercising by a trainee comprising the steps of:

addressing an exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member, an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having each of the two trainee’s body units attached to each attachment means,

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having primary loading generating means applies the primary load to the trainee body unit;

performing an exercise step with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit to apply a load  referred as self spotting load to the trainee body unit via the attachment interconnecting means.

performing training steps with the exercise apparatus by having the trainee having the trainer body unit and trainee body unit to move in reciprocal motion comprising concentric motion and eccentric motion for a plurality of cycles wherein the self spotting is started with a positive spotting, which magnitude is gradually decreased to no spotting, and then the said self spotting moved to negative spotting, which magnitude gradually increased to the end of the training set.

POTENTIAL HARDWARE CLAIMS

Claim 41: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training comprises:

• Interconnecting means that comprises an elongated member,
• a supporting means comprising a connecting bracket with swivel ends to connect a rigid platform to the said elongated member,
• at least one handle pole comprising an elongated member such as a rod or tube, and an attachment means attached to the said handle pole elongated member at an variable a location on the said handle pole elongated member, the said handle pole is connected to the Interconnecting means via joining means,
• a primary loading generating means to apply a primary loading load directly or indirectly to the trainee body unit via interconnecting means, the said primary load direction is independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the attachment interconnecting means, 

Claim 42: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 wherein joining means is detachable to allow the said handle pole to be detach from Interconnecting means.

Claim 43: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 wherein joining means is pivot able.

Claim 44: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 wherein the said handle pole is attached to interconnecting means at an variable location.

Claim 45: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 comprises one handle pole on each side of the Interconnecting means (FIG.13 & FIG.14).

Claim 46: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 comprises one handle pole on one side of the Interconnecting means. (FIG.15 & FIG.16)

Claim 47: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 wherein the supporting means further comprises a load sensing means for monitoring the supporting load.

Claim 48: A self spotting physical exercise system for self spotting training of claim 41 wherein the said supporting means of the interconnecting means comprising a connecting bracket that fastens the said self spotting physical exercise system to one end of an Olympic barbell bar, which rests on an adjustable height Olympic barbell bar supporting means.

Claim 49: An exercise apparatus comprising Self Spotting Physical Exercise System, which comprises:

two attachment means, one attachment means is attached to one of two trainee’s body member units referred as the trainee body unit, the other attachment means is attached to the other trainee’s body member units referred as the trainer body unit, each of said body member units includes at least one trainee’s body member,

an attachment interconnecting means that connects the said two attachment means, and the attachment interconnecting means comprises an elongated member, each end of said elongated member is connected to each attachment means,

a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means to one end of an Olympic barbell bar,

an adjustable height Olympic barbell bar supporting means wherein the said Olympic barbell bar is mounted on,

Self Spotting Physical Training Method

Inventor: Chi Apex LLC

Date: November 12, 2011