CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a makes no priority claim.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary embodiments relate generally to a rowing machine having a handle with a cursor control device for controlling a cursor for a graphical user interface (“GUI”).

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Rowing machines are popular exercise devices which simulate a real-world rowing motion to provide both a strength and cardiovascular workout. Rowing machines are known to incorporate a variety of features, including displays with user interfaces. Such user interfaces may be configured to display workout information, workout videos, games, and the like to provide the user with feedback regarding his or her workout or to increase user engagement. The HYDROW™ (https://hydrow.com/) is a rowing machine with a large display which is configured to provide simulated workout classes and a simulated real-world rowing experience with a user interface.

User operation of the displays and user interfaces associated with exercise machines is difficult because the user is typically in constant motion when performing a workout. With a rowing type exercise, the user is typically in constant motion towards or away from a display, which makes operation especially difficult. However, user input is generally required to utilize certain features. For example, user input is generally required to change the workout parameters (time, resistance, etc.), select a new workout routine, and the like. To provide such input, a user may be required to pause his or her workout to make the appropriate changes.

It is known to provide a rowing handle containing buttons which operate a menu-driven user interface. For example, the VR500 PRO ROWING MACHINE from BODYCRAFT™ provides such a handle for operating a menu-driven user interface (https://www.bodycraft.com/vr500-pro-rowing-machine.html). However, as user interfaces become more complex, they often require the user to control a cursor to make certain selections. Therefore, what is needed is a rowing machine handle with a cursor control device for a user interface.

A rowing machine handle with a cursor control device for a user interface is provided. The cursor control device may comprise, for example without limitation, a touch pad, a joystick, or a ball. Movement or selection at the cursor control device may be translated into movement or selection of a cursor at a GUI. The GUI may be displayed on an electronic display mounted to the rowing machine. The GUI may comprise a number of icons. The icons may each be associated with one or more options or features, which may include workout parameters, content to be displayed, some combination thereof, or the like. The GUI and/or various settings of the rowing machine may be updated based on user movement or selection received at the cursor control device. In this way, the user's workout does not be interrupted to interact with the GUI. Content may be downloaded or streamed to the GUI by way of a network. Likewise, user information may be uploaded and stored offsite.

Further features and advantages of the systems and methods disclosed herein, as well as the structure and operation of various aspects of the present disclosure, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying figures.

