Exercise machine with adjustable-resistance, hydraulic cylinder

摘要

An exercise machine has a frame, one or more levers pivotally attached to the frame for a user to move in the performance of exercise movements, at least one fluid cylinder connected between the frame and each lever(s) for offering resistance to the exercise movements, and means for adjustment of the resistance of the cylinder by changing the flow rate of fluid in a channel therein. In an illustrated embodiment, the flow rate of the cylinder is varied by rotation of a gear collar affixed to the cylinder, and the adjustment means includes a gear engaged with the gear collar(s) of the cylinder(s), a drive shaft affixed to the gear, and drive means operably associated with the drive shaft. Preferred drive means comprise a motor connected to an electronic controller; however, an alternative embodiment employs a mechanical drive linkage to a knob or crank. Also described are stairclimbing exercise machines incorporating the adjustable-resistance cylinder.