Portable exercise, balance and flexibility device and method

Abstract

A portable, free standing, exercise device for exercise, core strength, balance, and coordination training as well as general cardio vascular fitness and physical therapy. The exercise device includes a substantially rigid platform for supporting a user. Two spaced apart exercise arms extend upwards and away from the platform to respective rotatable grip assemblies. The exercise arms are attached to the platform through spring members that allow generally unrestrictive multi-axis movement relative to the platform and also maintain the exercise arms in a generally vertical position when not in use. The platform is designed to be used on any generally flat surface or alternatively can be placed on an unstable base to allow for a great challenge to the muscles and systems of balance.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/017,777, entitled “My invention is a wobble balance board that has attached handles that pivot in all ranges of motion to provide stability for the user and act as a means of allowing the upper body to be used in the balance and stabilization process.”, filed on Dec. 30, 2007 by Michael Dwayne Berry, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into this disclosure.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to exercise devices and more particularly to portable multiple use exercise and training devices.

BACKGROUND

It has long been recognized that regular exercise and stretching improves health and quality of life. Some of the better known benefits may include reduced stress, improved performance, prevention of injury, reduced pain, increased strength and endurance, and restoration of function are clinically accepted benefits.

Historically, health and physical fitness professionals first: emphasized strength training primarily using some form of dumbbell training exercises or weight machines. It wasn't long before cardiovascular exercise grew in popularity with running, aerobic dancing, treadmills, stationary bikes, rowing machines, step machines and more recently elliptical trainers. While generally effective at facilitating the development of cardiovascular endurance by increasing the heart rate, lung capacity, etc., such devices are generally linear in nature and cause the user thereof to engage in a single repetitious activity. This can lead to a monotonous workout that can cause muscle imbalance and reduced motion and function. Moreover, none of these classes of cardiovascular exercise equipment place emphasis on circular motions of the limbs or torso let alone develop the balance and coordination that typically replicate more natural movements.

There has been a growing trend towards a gentler style of non impact exercise as our population ages that also train flexibility and balance. Examples of such exercises and training include yoga, tai chi, Pilates and ballet barre training.

A significant problem for many people who would like to exercise regularly is finding adequate time to do so. The demands of work and family life often leave little time for driving to the gym and exercising. Moreover, many people simply do not have reasonable access to a gym or sufficient exercise equipment to facilitate adequate exercise.

Exercising at home is rapidly growing in popularity. Most exercise devices designed for home use, however, are limited in exercise scope and capability. Moreover, they are often expensive, require precious floor space, are difficult to store and limited in versatility.

Although numerous portable devices exist for exercising, including training, stretching, balance and therapy, a continued need exists for an exercise device having a broad spectrum of exercise applications, which is simple and safe to use, space efficient, relatively inexpensive, durable, portable and more accessible to a wider range or individuals with a capability to exercise.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to a portable free standing, exercise device for exercise, core strength, balance, and coordination training, for pleasure as well as for general cardio vascular fitness and physical therapy use. The exercise device includes a generally rigid platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user and a lower surface for placement on a floor, flat surface or base member. A pair of spaced apart, elongated exercise supporting arms extend outwardly and away from the upper surface of the platform. Each elongated supporting arm extends from a base end to a grip assembly at the opposing end away from the upper surface of the platform.

A multi-axis pivot assembly connects the base end of each exercise arm to the platform and supports the exercise arm in an initial position extending generally vertically away from the upper surface of the platform. The pivot allows for multi-axis movement of the exercise arm relative to the initial position and may provide a resistive force to movement of the exercise arm relative to the initial position. The pivot assembly is adapted to return the exercise arm to the initial position when not used such that the user can exercise using the weight of the body as resistance while using the elongated supporting arms for balance and support.

The grip assemblies are adapted to be griped by a user. Each grip assembly is rotatable connected to the respective exercise arm so a user can move the exercise arm through the grip without significant wrist motion.

The present invention also includes a method of exercising comprising the steps of:

• (1) Providing a portable exercise device comprising a substantially rigid platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user and a lower surface adapted for use on a supporting surface. The device further comprises a pair of spaced apart elongated exercise supporting arms, each extending from a base end to a rotatable grip assembly at the opposing end. A multi-axis pivot assembly couples the base end of each exercise supporting arm to the platform and further supports the exercise arm in an initial position extending outwardly from the upper surface of the platform while allowing multi-axis movement of the exercise arm relative to the initial position. Each pivot assembly allows generally free planar movement of the grip assemblies relative to the surface of the platform and sufficient support to return the exercise supporting arm to the initial position when not in use; (2) Placing the lower surface on a supporting surface; (3) Placing at least a portion of a user body weight on at least one of the exercise arms such that a downward pressure is applied to the exercise arms; and (4) Using at least one of the exercise arms for support while moving the body through exercises and using at least the weight of the body for resistance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements. It should be noted that different references to “an” or “one” embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded assembly view of an embodiment the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows a partial disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention with the upper support arms removed.

FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention with one exercise support arm partially disassembled.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective bottom view of an embodiment of a supporting wobble base of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows details of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the present invention in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a portable exercise device that is inexpensive to manufacture, versatile in all aspects including set up and storage and requires very little room to operate. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “exercise” and exercising” shall be understood to be as broad as possible and include all aspects of exercise, stretching and training, including but not limited to: strength exercise and training, stretching, balance exercise, cardiovascular exercise, physical therapy, general therapy, proprioception and coordination exercise as well as specific forms of such exercise such as yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, ballet, dance, and related exercises and training.

For specific exercises such as yoga or Tai Chi, many people find the positions physically and sometimes even mentally difficult to achieve. The present invention acts like “training wheels” by providing additional support and stability for the user and ultimately providing the strength and confidence necessary for such positions. Providing support similar to a fixed ballet barre, the present invention is not attached to a wall and requires no horizontal support. Rather the present invention provides the user the option of movement of the limbs in an abundant variety of planes movement allowing for a larger engagement of muscles used. This creates a greater challenge to the nervous system that controls balance and a greater challenge to the muscles of stability. This device can be used on a flat stable surface such as the ground or it can be placed on an unstable surface such as a teeter board, inflatable disc, wobble board or foam device to challenge the user in a variety of ways to further enhance balance, coordination and core strength abilities.

The present invention provides a single portable device capable of exercising the abdomen, lower and upper limbs, back, including strength, balance, flexibility and coordination. It has a stationary base support with two pivoting handles that provide stability for the user while engaging the muscles of the upper torso and limbs. The shoulders, arms and back benefit as the upper limbs serve to assist the lower limbs to perform the various exercise movements. This is of great value in the case of a user having an injury or weakness to the lower limbs. The upper limbs will act as “the spotter”, in the case of an upper limb injury or weakness the lower limbs can assist in the desired movement until the strength is regained much like using a cane to get up from a seated position.

The present exercise device incorporates exercises that use the individual's bodyweight primarily in the upright position because: there is less chance for injury, it creates real world scenarios of movement designed to enhance functional fitness and integrates the muscle systems that increase coordination, balance, cardiovascular fitness and power. The advantages of a device that can train in the upright position are well known. In addition to exercising using one's own body weight, additional weight. As a basic example, ankle or wrist weights can be used.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the present invention provides an portable exercise device 100 having a platform base 15 adapted to support at least a portion of a user's weight. In a preferred embodiment, the platform 15 provides a generally flat upper surface that the user can step onto. A non slip surface 19 may be provided. The non slip surface 19 may cover all or a portion of the upper surface but preferably prevents the user from slipping or losing footing during use. The non slip surface 19 may be a grip tape, including strips of a grip tape such as that provided by 3M. Alternatively, any non slip surface may be used.

In the preferred embodiment, a pair of spaced apart elongated tubular support arms 102 extend upwardly and away from the platform 15. Each exercise support arm 102 includes a grip assembly or handle 1 at its distal end. A multi-axis pivot assembly 13 couples each exercise support arm 102 to the upper surface of the platform 15. Each pivot assembly 13 allows generally free planar movement of the grip assemblies relative to the upper flat surface of the platform 15 while providing support and balance to a user. The pivot assembly is also adapted to have sufficient return force to return the attached exercise supporting arm 102 to an initial generally position when not in use such that the user can exercise through body weight resistance alone while using the exercise supporting arms for balance and support and the supporting arms 102 return to the initial position when not in use.

FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B show a preferred embodiment of the present invention in various stages of assembly-disassembly. Because the invention 100 may be adapted for portability, it is advantageously designed for user assembly and disassembly.

The exercise device 100 includes the platform base 15 having an upper surface. Preferably the platform 15 is substantially rigid and adapted for supporting the user (see FIG. 7). The upper surface may have a non slip surface 19, 20 and 21 to prevent user slippage and be integral to the platform 15 or may simply include a non slip surface such as grip tape, Emory cloth, a rubber or other non slip mat or the like.

The underside of the platform 15 is adapted for contact with a support base, which may include most any relatively flat surface such as the ground, flooring, carpet or any other surface capable of supporting the underside of the platform. To prevent slippage or movement relative to the supporting surface, the underside of the platform may be provided with a non slip surface 18 such as a rubber mat or strips. Such non slip surface 18 may be adapted to prevent scratches or damage to the supporting surface. Alternatively, the support base may be integral as part of, or more permanently attached to, the platform 15.

Referring now to FIG. 4, the supporting base may be a wobble board that provides a generally unstable or unbalanced support for the platform 15. An example of such wobble board is currently provided Pro Fit. The wobble type supporting base may also include an off center pivot point or even a user adjustable pivot or multiple pivots. Alternatively, the supporting base may be an inflatable pillow support such as a Dyna Disk or even a teeter type board commonly used in physical therapy.

Referring back to FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B, the exercise device 102 includes the platform 15 having an upper surface that is adapted to support a user. The platform 15 is preferably made from a generally rigid material such as from a wood material, including a particle board, plywood, or solid wood. The platform 15 may also be made from other material such as a composite, plastic or even carbon fiber material or combinations of materials

An elongated exercise supporting arm 102 extends from a base end adjacent tie in 12 to a grip assembly 1 that is attached at the opposing end. A multi-axis pivot assembly 13 connects the base end of the exercise supporting arm 102 to the platform 15 and is adapted to maintain the supporting arm in an initial position extending outwardly from the upper surface of the platform while allowing multi-axis movement of the supporting arm relative to the initial position.

The multi axis pivot assembly 13 may include a spring device 13, such as the compression coil spring illustrated or other spring device that provides generally free movement of the support arms 102 while still providing sufficient force to return the support arms back the initial position such as the vertical position. The pivot assembly 13 may also include tie in 12 for removable or fixed connection to the lower portion 11 of support arm 102. The tie in 12 may be coupled to the support arm 1I1 through pin or rivet 8 or any other means. A lower tie in 14 provides connection to the platform 15 and may be bolted using through bolt 16 or any other known attachment means as is commonly used. The tie ins 12 and 14 may provide a screw in type coupling to the coil spring 13 to allow for ease of assembly and disassembly. The pivot assembly 13 may also comprise a flexible material such as a rubber tube, mount or other flexible or elastic piece. In an alternative embodiment, the elongated support arms 102 are flexible along at least a portion of their elongated length and provide the necessary movement and support. Such embodiment may include support arms 102 made from fiberglass, wire, graphite, plastic, carbon fiber, or other flexible spring like material. Such support arms 102 may be provided with differing restive force for different user capabilities and exercises.

The elongate support arms 102 may comprise a single member or multiple members such as a lower member 11 and upper member 9 coupled together with clip 10. Alternatively the support arm may be adjustable for different user heights or exercises. The support arms 102 may even be telescopic.

In an alternative embodiment, the pivot assembly 13 may be adapted to provide a noticeable resistive force to any movement of the exercise supporting arm 102 relative to the initial position so as to provide exercise during support arm movement in addition to the benefits of the device 100 without such resistive force.

The grip assembly 1 is preferably rotatably mounted to the upper support arm 9 and rotatable relative to an elongated axis along the exercise support arm. A bushing 4 or bushings 3 and 4 provide a moveable surface for such rotation. The grip assembly may be a spherical grip adapted to palm and hand gripping or any other handle or grip device as commonly used in exercise devices. In one embodiment, the grip assembly 1 uses a D shaped handle.

The exercise device may only one support arm 102 but the presently preferred embodiment includes a second exercise supporting arm and pivot assembly spaced apart from the first exercise arm. The resistive force provided by each pivot assembly 13 is limited so as to generally only provide sufficient force to return the respective exercise supporting arm to its initial position while not being used and to not provide any material resistance to movement of the support arms during use.

In one embodiment, the exercise device 100 includes an elastic banding member (not shown) adapted to couple the spaced apart exercise arms 102 together so resistance is created when moving one exercise arm relative to the other one. Differing resistive bands may be used to create differing resistive forces.

The portable, collapsible exercise device 100 is adapted to train, balance, flexibility, core strength, cardio vascular fitness and coordination; that can be easily carried in a shoulder bag comprising: a pair of freely moving support handles 102 attached to round platform made of a substantially inflexible material, each handle having a proximal end and a distal end the proximal end of each support handle is attached to the platform by means of a compression spring 13 that allows for movement in a 360 degree range of motion and firmly connects said handle to the platform by means of a simple, no tools needed screw on lug attachment at the support arms or handles' distal ends that screw on attached bolt; are grip knobs that freely rotate 360 degrees for comfort and ease of use between the proximal and distal ends of the handles there is a quick release push button joint 10 to allow for easy collapsibility and portability. The platform 15 has two surfaces; both surfaces have a non skid friction design to prevent the foot or platform from slipping while performing the exercise moves.

The platform may be made from made of substantially inflexible material, such as a rigid disc of about a twenty inch diameter that is adapted to lay flat on a floor or on an unstable base such as a teeter board, inflatable disc, wobble board, vibration device, foam base or other device used to create an unstable base for supporting the weight of a user.

The pair of support arms or handles 102 are adapted to move in a 360 arc of motion to allow the user to support and stabilize their body weight so they can perform movements that challenge balance, core strength, upper and lower limb strength and flexibility.

The support arms 102 may be collapsible with a push button joint (21) to allow for easy storage and portability.

The free standing exercise device (5) may have support handles 102 that are attachable to platform 15 without tools by means of a fixed bolt 16 at the platform base that screws to a threaded plug 14 at the base of the pivot assembly 13.

The distal ends of the support arms 102 have grip knobs 1 that are able to rotate freely for comfort and ease of use.

The platform 15 has a non skid surface on both upper and lower surfaces to prevent the feet or platform from slipping during exercise movements.

The support handles 102 are attached to the platform by pivot assemblies which may include compression springs 13 such as those provided by Servalite (no. 54) that allow the arms 102 to move freely in all directions, yet return the arms to the upright position when released. This freedom of movement permits the user to position themselves in postures that might otherwise be difficult or impossible to maintain while performing the exercise moves.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, an alternative embodiment of the present invention 200 is shown. FIG. 7 shows details of the multi-axis pivot assembly 213, including the assembly of the pivot assembly to the platform 215 and each exercise support arm 202.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a user 10 is shown using an embodiment of the present exercise device 100. As shown, the user stands upon the upper surface of the platform 15 such that at least one foot is placed on the platform depending on the desired movement or exercise. In other exercises, both feet may be placed on the platform 15 or none at all.

As the user 110 shifts his or her weight they grip the support handles to provide stability and engage the muscles of the upper torso and limbs. The user performs movements that may involve most any form of squatting, twisting, lunging, pushing kicking, flexing, kicking, punching, thrusting, pulling and/or bending as well as most any combination of such movements or most any other movement. In the application illustrated, the movements are primarily performed while standing on one leg. This is made possible by the support being provided by the moveable support arms 102. As a result, the user is safely challenged and trains balance, coordination, flexibility, power and strength in one application.

If used with an unstable support base such as wobble base 106 of FIG. 5, the user must also balance the platform 15 relative to the supporting ground as well as the balance necessary to accomplish the desired exercises with the platform on a level and flat support ground. By using different support bases, the user can continually be challenged with differing balance exercises

Various exercises may also include alternating feet on the platform 15, not using any feet on the platform or exercising with both feet on the platform. Similarly, an alternative embodiment of the present invention contemplates a single exercise support arm 102 and the user may alternative arms during use or not use the support arm at all.

The present invention 100 further provides a method of doing push up and related type exercises in an upright position. The user 110 places their hands comfortably on the rotating knobs handles 1. Preferably, the platform 15 or supporting base is placed against a wall or other support to prevent sliding. The user then leans into the exercise support arms 102 and pushes downwardly, using the arms to stabilize and balance the user and device as needed and thereby making it easier to perform such push up for beginners or those in physical or other therapy. The support arms 102 can be moved in a variety of positions while doing the push up type exercises to target different areas of the upper body.

The present invention further provides means for adapting the workout from a beginner routine to an advanced routine by simply changing the degree of motions used. For example the degree the user dips their body or raises a limb. Although various adjustable components are contemplated such as a restrictive force pivot assembly and restrictive motion bands, no adjustment to the exercise device is required. The present invention is advantageously adapted for use in a group exercise or class setting much like a step class or aerobic dance class. The small size of the device makes it easy to store multiple units at the facility or gives the user the option of bringing their own device to the class. Beginners can workout alongside advanced users performing moves to the same commands and if desired, to the same music and at the same time. This advantageously eliminates the need and expense for an exercise facility to offer classes to different levels of fitness or even offer the required equipment which may be user provided.

The present invention further provides a safe and improved core exercise device that advantageously allows a larger population access to core training. Because most core training is currently performed on the floor, using an exercise ball, or expensive machines found only in gyms, many people cannot perform such exercises. For example, many people are unable to lie on the floor due to excessive weight, weakness or injury. The elderly and obese are typically precluded from most core training. This present invention, however, many advantageously be used by the obese, elderly and even those having limited mobility.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms or methods disclosed. Persons skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

Claims

1. An exercise device comprising:

A platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user;

A plurality of spaced apart elongated exercise supporting arms flexibly connected to the platform at a base end and extending outwardly from the platform to a grip assembly at the opposing end, each exercise supporting arm adapted for supporting at least a portion of the weight of the user;

Wherein the user can exercise using at least a portion of the body weight for resistance while using at least one exercise supporting arm for support.

2. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein each grip assembly is rotatably coupled to the exercise arm such that a user can move the exercise supporting arm through the grip assembly without significant wrist action.

3. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the platform is adapted to mount on top of a base member.

4. The exercise device of claim 3 wherein the base member provides an unstable support for the platform.

5. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein each exercise arm comprises a spring adapted to provide a force that resists movement relative to the initial position and that returns the exercise arm to the initial position.

6. The exercise device of claim 5 wherein the exercise arm comprises a flexible material.

7. An exercise device comprising:

A platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user;

An elongated exercise supporting arm extending from a base end to a grip assembly at the opposing end; and

A multi-axis pivot assembly connecting the base end of the exercise supporting arm to the platform and supporting the exercise supporting arm in an initial position extending outwardly from the upper surface of the platform while allowing multi-axis movement of the exercise supporting arm relative to the initial position; and

Wherein the pivot assembly provides a resistive force to any movement of the exercise supporting arm relative to the initial position and that returns the exercise arm to the initial position such that the user can exercise using the exercise supporting arm for support.

8. The exercise device of claim 7 wherein the grip assembly is rotatable relative to an elongated axis along the exercise arm.

9. The exercise device of claim 8 further comprising:

A second exercise supporting arm and pivot assembly spaced apart from the first exercise arm and pivot assembly and adapted to be generally parallel to the first exercise supporting arm when in the initial position.

10. The exercise device of claim 9 wherein the resistive force provided by each pivot assembly is limited so as to generally only provide sufficient force to return the respective exercise supporting arm to its initial position while not being used.

11. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the platform comprises a wood based material.

12. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the platform comprises a substantially rigid composite material.

13. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the pivot assembly comprises an elastic member.

14. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the pivot assembly comprises a coil spring.

15. The exercise device of claim 10 further comprising an elastic member adapted to couple the spaced apart exercise arms together wherein resistance is created when moving one exercise arm relative to the other exercise arm.

16. The exercise device of claim 10 wherein the platform has a lower surface adapted for contact with a base member.

17. The exercise device of claim 16 wherein the base member is adapted to provide an unstable support for the platform.

18. The exercise device of claim 17 wherein the upper surface and lower surfaces of the platform further comprise non slip surfaces.

19. A portable exercise device comprising:

A substantially rigid platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user and a lower surface adapted for placement on a supporting surface;

A plurality of spaced apart elongated exercise supporting arms, each extending from a base end to a rotatable grip assembly at the opposing end; and

A plurality of multi-axis pivot assemblies, each pivot assembly coupling the base end of an exercise supporting arm to the platform and supporting the exercise arm in an initial position extending outwardly from the upper surface of the platform while allowing multi-axis movement of the exercise arm relative to the initial position; and

Wherein each pivot assembly allows generally free planar movement of the grip assemblies relative to the surface of the platform and sufficient support to return the exercise supporting arm to the initial position when not in use such that the user can exercise through body weight resistance while using the exercise supporting arms for balance and support.

20. A method of exercising using an exercise device comprising the steps of:

(1) Providing a portable exercise device comprising:

A substantially rigid platform having an upper surface adapted to support a user and a lower surface adapted for use on a supporting surface;

A plurality of spaced apart elongated exercise supporting arms, each extending from a base end to a rotatable grip assembly at the opposing end; and

A plurality of multi-axis pivot assemblies, each pivot assembly coupling the base end of an exercise supporting arm to the platform and supporting the exercise arm in an initial position extending outwardly from the upper surface of the platform while allowing multi-axis movement of the exercise arm relative to the initial position; and

Wherein each pivot assembly allows generally free planar movement of the grip assemblies relative to the surface of the platform and sufficient support to return the exercise supporting arm to the initial position when not in use;

(2) Placing the lower surface on a supporting surface;

(3) Placing at least a portion of a user body weight on at least one of the exercise arms such that a downward pressure is applied to the exercise arms; and

(4) Using at least one of the exercise arms for support while moving the body through exercises and using at least the weight of the body for resistance.