Exercise device and method to simulate kayak paddling

摘要

This invention describes an exercise machine which is operated in a manner similar to paddling a Kayak or other water craft with a double blade paddle. The device incorporates a "T" bar shaped handle assembly centrally positioned in front of a seated operator and connected at its base with an articulating joint to a torque resisting mechanism. The articulating joint allows the operator to manipulates the handle bar in a pattern similar to that of paddling a Kayak as this configuration allows the handle bar to pivot and be positioned from side to side with a similar freedom of movement experienced with a Kayak type double blade paddle. Only the rotational component of the handle bar movement induced by paddle stroke motions are transmitted through the articulating joint and resisted by the torque resistance mechanism. The torque resistance mechanism utilizes a mechanical configuration where the alternating and reversing rotations of the handle bar movement are transformed into a unidirectional rotation of a flywheel where the combination of rotational inertia and an adjustable drag device provide an dynamic exercise resistance which is similar to that which is actually experienced while propelling a Kayak.