A resistance module for an exercise machine for providing a substantially constant force through a range of motion includes at least one cantilever spring and at least one rigid member movable with respect to one another along a path of travel. The rigid member causes the cantilever spring to deflect and produce a resistance force. The cantilever spring has an anchored end and a deflection end. The rigid member engages the deflection end of the cantilever spring, and constrains the deflection end to a predetermined path of deflection as the cantilever spring and the rigid member move with respect to one another. The rigid member can be a non-planer contact surface along which the deflection end tracks, or a pivot link. The module can include means for operatively coupling at least one of the cantilever spring and the at least one rigid member to an exercise machine.
An exerciser includes a frame assembly including a lower frame portion constructed and arranged to be stably supported in an operative position on a horizontal surface and rigid upright frame structure defining laterally spaced left and right free end portions. A user support assembly is operatively connected with the lower frame portion and is constructed and arranged to support a user thereon. Left and right moving assemblies are disposed in normal inoperative positions with respect to the user support assembly constructed and arranged to be manually engaged and individually manually moved away from the normal inoperative position thereof into a desired extended position by a user supported on the user support assembly.
