NEUTRAL BIAS RESISTANCE DEVICE

Abstract

Disclosed is a neutral bias, dynamic constant resistance exercise device. The device provides resistance training throughout an angular range of motion. The device may be low profile, and worn by a wearer, such as beneath conventional clothing. Exercise of selective joints or motion of the body may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/951,947, filed on Nov. 22, 2010, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/797,718, filed on Jun. 10, 2010 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/218,607, filed Jun. 19, 2009, the entirety of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Resistance training, sometimes known as weight training or strength training, is a specialized method of conditioning designed to increase muscle strength, muscle endurance, and muscle power. Resistance training refers to the use of any one or a combination of training methods which may include resistance machines, dumbbells, barbells, body weight, and rubber tubing.

The goal of resistance training, according to the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI), is to “gradually and progressively overload the musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger.” This is accomplished by exerting effort against a specific opposing force such as that generated by elastic resistance (i.e. resistance to being stretched or bent). Exercises are isotonic if a body part is moving against the force. Exercises are isometric if a body part is holding still against the force. Resistance exercise is used to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. Full range of motion is important in resistance training because muscle overload occurs only at the specific joint angles where the muscle is worked. Properly performed, resistance training can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being.

Research shows that regular resistance training will strengthen and tone muscles and increase bone mass. Resistance training should not be confused with weightlifting, power lifting or bodybuilding, which are competitive sports involving different types of strength training with non-elastic forces such as gravity (weight training or plyometrics) an immovable resistance (isometrics, usually the body's own muscles or a structural feature such as a door frame).

Whether or not increased strength is an objective, repetitive resistance training can also be utilized to elevate aerobic metabolism, for the purpose of weight loss.

Resistance exercise equipment has therefore developed into a popular tool used for conditioning, strength training, muscle building, and weight loss. Various types of resistance exercise equipment are known, such as free weights, exercise machines, and resistance exercise bands or tubing. Various limitations exist with the prior art exercise devices. For example, many types of exercise equipment, such as free weights and most exercise machines, are not portable. With respect to exercise bands and tubing, they may need to be attached to a stationary object, such as a closed door or a heavy piece of furniture, and require sufficient space. This becomes a problem when, for example, the user wishes to perform resistance exercises in a location where such stationary objects or sufficient space are not readily found. Resistance bands are also limited to a single resistance profile in which the amount of resistance changes as a function of angular displacement of the joint under load. This may result in under working the muscles at the front end of a motion cycle, and over working the muscles at the back end of the cycle. Conventional elastic devices also provide a unidirectional bias that varies in intensity throughout an angular range but not in direction. Such devices thus cannot work both the flexor and extensor muscles of a given motion segment without adjustment.

A need therefore exists for resistance exercise equipment that is portable, that may be used on its own without the need to employ other types of equipment, and that applies a relatively constant load throughout both a flexion and extension range of motion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a low profile, wearable, dynamic resistance device. The dynamic resistance device comprises a waistband, for attachment around the waist of a wearer. A left leg and right leg superior leg attachment structures are provided, for attachment to a leg of the wearer in between the waistband and the wearer's knee. A left leg and right leg inferior leg attachment structures are provided, for attachment to the leg of the wearer below the knee.

At least one left leg resistance panel and at least one right leg resistance panel extends between the waistband and the corresponding inferior leg attachment structures. The resistance panel impart by directional resistance to movement throughout a range of motion.

Each of the superior leg attachment structures may comprise a band for wrapping around the leg above the knee, and may secured by a hook and loop or other releasable fastener. Each of the inferior leg attachment structures may comprise a band for wrapping around the leg below the knee, and may comprise a hook and loop or other releasable fastener.

The resistance panel may comprise a malleable metal. The metal may comprise copper. The resistance panel may comprise a plurality of malleable strands, typically extending in an inferior-superior direction in an as worn orientation. The plurality of malleable strands may be woven into a fabric. The sum of the cross-sectional areas of all the strands, taken in a transverse cross-section through the strands in between the waist and the superior leg attachments is typically within the range of from about 0.020 and about 0.060 square inches, per inch of the resistance panel measured in a circumferential direction around the leg for each leg. Alternatively, or in addition, each resistance panel may comprise a pivotable resistance element.

In one implementation of the invention, the superior attachment structures and inferior attachment structures comprise first and second regions of a garment. The dynamic resistance device may impose a first level of resistance to movement across the hip, and a second level of resistance across the knee, where the first level is greater than the second level. Each of a left and right resistance panels may impose a resistance to movement to at least about 10 foot pounds in between the waist and the superior attachment structure. In some implementations of the invention, the device imposes a resistance to movement at the hip of at least about 10 foot pounds, and resistance of movement at the knee of at least about 5 foot pounds, for each of the right and left legs.

The malleable strands typically have an average diameter of at least about 0.020 inches, and may be at least about 0.040 inches, 0.050 inches, or greater, depending upon device design and desire performance characteristics.

There is provided in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a method of elevating aerobic metabolism. The method comprises the steps of attaching a garment to a wearer, the garment having a first attachment structure for attachment at the waist, a second attachment structure for attachment to the leg above the knee, and a third attachment structure for attachment to the leg below the knee. The first, second and third attachment structures may be discrete zones on a unitary garment.

The garment additionally comprises a first resistance panel between the first and second attachment structures, and a second resistance panel between the second and third attachment structures. The resistance panels may comprise any of a variety of elements for providing resistance against both flexion and extension of the hip and knee.

The wearer then wears the garment while moving through a normal range of motion, in opposition to resistance from the garment. The garment is neutrally biased, so that it does not exert a bias against the wearer when the wearer is not in motion.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a passive exercise device. The exercise device comprises a garment, having a waist portion and a left and right leg portion. A left resistance element is operatively secured to the left leg portion, and a right resistance element is operatively secured to the right leg portion. Each of the right resistance elements imposes a resistance to movement of at least about 2 ft. lbs, and is neutral biased in the absence of movement.

In certain embodiments, the exercise device imposes a resistance against extension in the amount of between about 2 and about 75 ft. lbs., such as at least about 2, 5, 7.5, 10 and 25 ft. lbs. In certain embodiments, the exercise device imposes a resistance against flexion within the range of from about 1 to about 50 ft. lbs, such as at least about 2, 5, 7.5, 10 or 15 ft. lbs.

In certain embodiments, the passive exercise device imposes a level of resistance to extension which is at least 50% higher and in some implementations at least 100% higher than the resistance against flexion.

The passive exercise device may additionally include a release, for disengaging a resistance element in response to a sudden movement by the wearer.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a low profile, passive exercise device, configured to elevate aerobic metabolic activity compared to a baseline aerobic metabolic activity in the absence of the device, through a range of normal movement between a first region of the body and a second region of the body. The passive exercise device comprises a first attachment structure for attachment with respect to a first region of the body. A second attachment structure is provided, for attachment with respect to a second region of the body which is movable throughout an angular range with respect to the first region. A flex zone is provided between the first and second attachment structures, and the flex zone imparts bi-directional resistance to movement between the first and second regions of the body, throughout a range of motion, in an amount of at least about 1 ft. lb.

In one implementation of the invention, the first attachment structure comprises a structure for attachment to the leg above the knee. The first attachment structure may be configured for attachment at the waist. In one implementation of the invention, the flex zone comprises a malleable material, such as a copper rod or plurality of copper strands.

The first attachment structure and second attachment structure may comprise first and second regions of a garment. The garment may extend at least from the waist to below the knee, and, in some applications of the invention, from the waist to the ankle The garment may impose a first level of resistance to movement across the hip, and a second, lower level of resistance across the knee. One or more resistance elements may be carried by the garment, or the garment or portions of the garment may be constructed using a plurality of resistance strands woven to produce a resistance fabric.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the detailed description of preferred embodiments which follows, when considered together with attached drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plot of different resistance profiles as a function of angular rotation of a joint.

FIG. 2 illustrates a comparison in muscle loading throughout an angular range for a constant resistance device and an elastic resistance device.

FIG. 3 illustrates a comparison in muscle loading throughout an angular range for a hybrid resistance device having a constant resistance component and an elastic resistance component.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an exercise device in accordance with the present invention, for providing resistance to movement at the hip.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an exercise device, for providing resistance to movement at both the hip and the knee.

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the exercise device of FIG. 5, in which a greater degree of resistance is provided to movement at the hip compared to the knee.

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of a garment incorporating resistance features in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a partial elevational view of a resistance element in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of an alternative resistance garment in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front schematic view of a garment such as that in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a rear schematic view of a garment such as that in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a flat plan view of an alternative resistance garment in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative resistance garment in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flat plan view of the resistance garment of FIG. 13.

FIGS. 15 and 16 show an alternate implementation of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various other forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.

The knee joint is a uni-axial hinge joint. The knee moves in a flexion (bending of the knee) and extension (straightening of the knee) direction. The three major bones that form the knee joint are: the femur (thigh bone), the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (kneecap). The prime muscle movers of the knee joint are the quadriceps muscles (on top of the femur), which move the knee into extension; and the hamstring muscles (underneath the femur), which move the knee into flexion. The quadriceps muscles are made up of five muscles known as the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, vastus intermedius and a secondary muscle, the vastus medialis oblique (VMO). The hamstring is made up of three muscles known as the biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus. The hamstring to quadriceps muscle strength ratio is two-thirds; meaning, the hamstring is normally approximately thirty-three percent weaker than the quadriceps. The muscles, ligaments, nervous system, and skeletal system work in unison to stabilize the knee during gait activities (walking, running, jumping).

In general, the devices in accordance with the present invention are designed to provide resistance to motion between a first region and a second region of the body such as across a simple or complex joint, throughout an angular range of motion. The resistance can be either unidirectional, to isolate a single muscle or muscle group, or preferably bidirectional to exercise opposing muscle pairs or muscle groups. Optionally, the device will be user adjustable to select uni or bidirectional resistance.

In the example of a device to apply a load under motion across the knee, configured to train quadriceps, the device imposes resistance to extension of the lower leg at the knee joint and throughout the angular range of motion for the knee. During flexion (movement in the return direction) the device may be passive without providing any resistance to movement. Alternatively, in a bidirectional device, the device imposes resistance throughout both extension and flexion in this example to train both the quadriceps and the hamstring muscles. The resistance to flexion and extension may be equal, or may be dissimilar, depending upon the objective of the exercise.

The devices in accordance with the present invention may also be provided with a user adjustable load or resistance.

In one implementation of the invention, the device provides passive resistance to motion throughout an angular range. At any stationary point within the range, the device imposes no bias. Rather the device merely resists movement in either one or both of flexion and extension.

In one mode of operation, the device is worn over an extended period of time wherein the activities of the wearer are dominantly aerobic as distinguished from anaerobic (i.e. dominantly non-anaerobic). The invention may be practiced where some of the activities are of an anaerobic nature, depending upon the training objective of the wearer. The extended period of time could be as short as one hour or less but is preferably at least two hours and sometimes at least eight hours, although it could also be at least about four hours or six hours or more.

Aerobic activity means that all of the metabolic oxygen requirements of the active tissues of the body are being fully met by the oxygen supply transported in the blood at that time. Activity levels that stay within these requirements are classified as aerobic and last beyond 5-7 minutes of continuous, rhythmic exercise. The primary fuel sources for maintaining this aerobic condition are fat (triglyceride) and sugar (carbohydrate/glucose/glycogen). The predominant by-products are CO₂, H₂O, heat and large quantities of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Anaerobic activity means that the metabolic oxygen requirements of the active tissues of the body exceed the oxygen supply being transported in the blood at that time. Any aerobic activity can become an anaerobic activity if the intensity of the exercise becomes increasingly harder so that the oxygen requirement of the active body tissues begins to exceed the blood's oxygen supply. High intensity activities that can only be sustained for periods of time less than 5-7 minutes fit the anaerobic classification. The principal fuel for anaerobic activity is sugar, and the predominant byproduct is lactic acid.

Metabolically, people are never perfectly aerobic, or perfectly anaerobic. Instead, the body functions more dominantly in one condition than the other based on the intensity or the duration of the activity in which the body is engaged. Thus, even though the total distance is the same, a swimmer will provoke an entirely different metabolic response by swimming 10×100 yards hard on a 1:30 interval than by swimming an easy 1,000 yards straight.

During low exertion level conditions, the consumption ratio is roughly ⅔ fat and ⅓ carbohydrate with a trace of protein. Both provide the necessary ATP (potential high-energy molecule) that the muscles use for their contraction process. As long as the oxygen supply to the active tissue is equal to or greater than the metabolic requirement, glucose molecules are actively transported into the muscle via insulin while the free fatty acid (FFA) molecules freely cross the cell membranes. Sugar (glycogen) previously stored in the muscle cells is added to the potential fuel supply.

Once inside the cell, cellular enzymes dismantle the molecules into carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The oxygen and carbon combine to form CO₂ which is returned to the lungs via the blood stream for us to exhale. The remaining hydrogen ions are shuttled by active transporters called NAD and FAD into the small energy-producing organelles called mitochondria. The hydrogen and oxygen combine to form H₂O which we eliminate through sweating, breathing, our intestines and bladder. The heat produced during the enzyme activity maintains our body core temperature and elevates it during exercise. Large quantities of the high energy ATP are produced to sustain prolonged, continuous muscular activity.

As the intensity of muscular activity increases, the oxygen requirement increases; body core temperature elevates; the brain signals the adrenal medullas to secrete epinephrine (adrenaline); blood delivers the epinephrine throughout the body; the epinephrine stimulates the Beta-receptors of fat cells (adipocytes) by triggering internal adipocyte lipase to dismantle the stored triglyceride into FFA's and glycerol. The muscles use the FFA's as previously described, and the liver catabolizes the glycerol and reduces it to H₂O and heat, both of which we eliminate.

Thus, extended easy to moderate training is a better way to burn fat, and, as discussed below, high intensity exercise is a better way to build burst strength. The elite athlete can not optimize their training regimen unless they know the crossover point. This can be evaluated, for example, by monitoring blood for the appearance of elevated lactic acid which signals the conversion to anaerobic activity. Both improve strength.

Aerobic activities include sleeping, sitting, and exercise activities that produce heart rates that are about 85% or less of one's estimated maximum rate. Roughly estimated, this is 170-160 bpm for healthy people 20-30 years old; 153-145 for healthy people 30-50 years old, and above age 50 it may be in the range of about 140-128. Above about 85%, the body's demand for oxygen beings to overtake the blood's oxygen supply, and a person begins the transition into anaerobic dominance. The change-over can be easily documented using laboratory metabolic analyzer systems, but this is not always practical. The simplest method is to monitor one's own breathing process during exercise. If it is easy to speak to someone while exercising, then one is dominantly aerobic. If one has to use a halting speech pattern due to the need for frequent breaths, then one is in transition. If getting a breath of air is more important than speaking, then one is dominantly anaerobic.

Activities that last less than about 10 seconds do not produce lactic acid, and they do not utilize glycogen (sugar stored in the muscle). ATP that has been previously produced by aerobic and anaerobic activity and has been stored in the muscle is used for such short-burst activities. Examples include blinking one's eye, twitching a finger, exploding out of starting blocks in a track event, sprinting 35 yds. (i.e., football drills), or possibly up to a 25 yard sprint for an elite, in condition swimmer.

During the short burst activity ATP is split by an enzyme to release the potential energy in the compound. Within microseconds upward to about 30 seconds, ADP and the separated terminal phosphate are re-united by creatine phosphate to re-create another ATP molecule to be used again. The liberated energy is used for muscular contraction and resynthesis of ATP.

High intensity muscular activity exceeding about 10 seconds requires more oxygen than the blood can supply to the active muscle tissues. This hypoxic (insufficient oxygen) condition activates an enzyme in the muscle cell which interrupts the aerobic sugar and fat metabolism pathway. One molecule of stored muscle sugar (glycogen) and one molecule of the blood sugar (glucose) entering the cell are converted to two molecules of pyruvic acid. Pyruvic acid is reduced into lactic acid. Minimal amounts of ATP are produced.

This snowball effect quickly increases the lactate concentration, further increasing the anaerobic enzyme activity to produce more lactate. Lactic acid spilling over into the blood stream is circulated to fat cells and impairs the stimulation of fat cell lipase by the circulating adrenaline. Fat cell triglyceride is not released into the blood stream which deprives the muscle cells of a supply of fat for their aerobic use. The reduction in available fat shuts down the aerobic activity of the ATP-producing muscle mitochondria. Increasing the exercise intensity, depriving the muscle mitochondria of fat and oxygen, increasing the lactic acid concentration all stimulate the increased activity of the anaerobic enzyme activity. The process is a cycle that feeds itself until there is not enough ATP to continue driving the muscle. The result is muscle fatigue and failure.

Heart rates exceeding about 90% of one's estimated, age-adjusted maximum typically accompany anaerobic metabolism dominance.

Even during this type of high-intensity work, we are still not perfectly anaerobic. While muscles in one part of the body are working aerobically, others are working anaerobically. When the preponderance of muscle tissue is working anaerobically, the ratio of sugar and fat use switches to ¼ fat and ¾ sugar rather than the ⅔ fat and ⅓ carbohydrate consumed at lower exertion levels.

The present invention is intended primarily for use to build strength under conditions which favor aerobic metabolism, which, in view of the foregoing will as a necessary consequence be accompanied by an elevated consumption of body fat. Thus the present invention may also comprise methods of achieving weight loss, by wearing one or two or more passive resistance devices for an extended period of time (disclosed elsewhere herein) each day for at least two or three or four or five or more days per week. The present invention also contemplates methods of reducing percent body fat via the same method steps.

Yet other embodiments of the present invention include biometric sensors and electronic data storage and/or wireless data export to a remote receiver such as a smartphone or other wireless device. In some embodiments, the sensors detect electrical signals which are related to the load being transmitted by the force modifying apparatus, the angular position of the upper leg attachment relative to the lower leg attachment, and/or the angular velocity of the upper leg attachment relative to the lower leg attachment, temperature, pulse or other data of interest.

Various dimensions and materials are described herein. It is understood that such information is by example only, and is not limiting to the inventions.

The angular range of motion permitted by the dynamic joint 54 may be within the range of from about 0° (straight leg) to about 145° or more. Typically, an angular range of motion between about 0 and about 45 or 55° is sufficient for a joint such as the knee.

A bi-directional exercise device provides resistance to movement in both the flexion and extension directions. However, the level of resistance may differ. For example, in a normal knee, the ratio of the natural strength of a hamstring to a quadricep is roughly 1:3. A balanced passive resistance device may therefore impose 1 lb. of resistance on flexion for every 3 lbs. of resistance on extension. However, for certain athletic competitions or other objectives, the wearer may desire to alter the basic strength ratio of the unexercised hamstring to quadricep. So for example, the passive exercise device 20 may be provided with a 2 lb. resistance on flexion for every 3 lb. resistance on extension or other ratio as may be desired depending upon the intended result.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, whether mechanical braces, fabric garments or hybrids, the resistance to movement will be relatively low compared to conventional weight training in view of the intended use of the apparatus for hours at a time. Anaerobic metabolism may be elevated by repetitively placing a minor load on routine movement over an extended period. The load will generally be higher than loads placed by normal clothing and technical wear, and preselected to work particular muscle groups. Preferably, the resistance elements may be adjusted or interchanged with other elements having a different resistance, or additive so that adding multiple resistance elements can increase the net resistance in a particular resistance zone.

The specific levels of resistance will vary from muscle group to muscle group, and typically also between flexion and extension across the same muscle group. Also wearer to wearer customization can be accomplished, to accommodate different training objectives. In general, resistances of at least about 0.5, and often at least about 1 or 2 or 3 or more foot-pounds will be used in most applications on both flexion and extension. Devices specifically configured for rehabilitation following injury (traumatic injury or surgical procedure) may have lower threshold values as desired. Across the hip or knee, resistance against extension in healthy patients will often be within the range of from about 2 to about 75 foot-pounds, more commonly within the range of from about 2 to about 25 foot-pounds, such as at least about 5, 7.5, 10 or 15 foot-pounds. Resistance against flexion will typically be less, such as within the range of from about 1 to about 50 foot-pounds, and often within the range of from about 2 to about 25 foot-pounds. Values of at least about 5, 7.5 or 10 foot pounds may be appropriate depending upon the wearer's objectives. The resistance to extension might be at least about 130%, sometimes at least about 150% and in some embodiments at least about 200% of the resistance to the corresponding flexion.

The resistance garment may impart any of a variety of resistance profiles, as a function of angular displacement of the joint. For example, FIG. 1 schematically and qualitatively illustrates the units such as pounds of resistance to movement in either or both an extension or flexion direction, as a function of the angular deviation of the joint across a dynamic motion range. In this illustration, an angle of zero may represent a limb in a “start” or straight or other reference configuration, while the midpoint of the range of motion is half way through the range of motion of the target join or motion segment. The maximum range of motion is the maximum normal range for the target joint.

Referring to plot 60, there is illustrated an example in which the resistance to movement is constant throughout the angular range of motion, as a function of angle. Thus, at whatever point the distal extremity may be throughout the angular range of motion with respect to the proximal anatomy, incremental motion encounters the same resistance as it would at any other point throughout the angular range of motion. If motion stops, the resistance stops and there is no net bias or force applied by the device against the distal extremity.

Alternatively, referring to plot 62, there is illustrated the force curve relating to a dynamic joint in the garment in which the resistance to motion is greatest at the beginning of deviation from a starting point, and the resistance to motion falls off to a minimum as the distal extremity reaches the limit of its angular range.

Referring to plot 64, the garment imposes the least resistance at the beginning of bending the limb from the starting point, and the force opposing motion increases as a function of angular deviation throughout the range of motion. This may be utilized, for example, to emphasize building strength on the back half or back portion of an angular range of motion.

As a further alternative, referring to plot 66, the garment may be configured to produce the most strength at the end points of the range of motion, while deemphasizing a central portion of the range of motion. Although not illustrated, the inverse of the plot 66 may additionally be provided, such that the end points in either direction of the angular range of motion across a joint are deemphasized, and strength throughout the middle portion of the range of motion is emphasized.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, any of a variety of resistance profiles may be readily constructed, depending upon the desired objective of the training for a particular athlete or rehabilitation protocol.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a qualitative relationship between a constant and an elastic resistive force, throughout a range of motion. The constant force line 80 remains essentially unchanged as a function of angular displacement from any starting point. So the work required to move in opposition to the resistance is at its predetermined value 82 starting at the beginning of any movement within the range, throughout both an early cycle 90 and a late cycle 92.

In contrast, extension (or flexion) throughout an angular range against an elastic resistive force encounters a variable resistance which starts low and increases as a function of the angle of displacement. This elastic resistive force is represented by line 84. Throughout an early cycle 90, resistance may be less than the predetermined value 82 until the elastic has been sufficiently loaded that the elastic resistance curve 84 crosses the predetermined value 82 of the constant resistance line 80 at a transition 88. Only angular displacement within the late cycle 92 encounters resistance at or above the predetermined value 82.

The angle zero can be any reference point throughout the walking cycle, such as standing straight up, or with the leg at the most posterior part of the stride, wherever the elastic has been designed to provide neutral (zero) bias. The shaded area 86 represents work that would be accomplished under the constant resistance device, but would not be accomplished during the early cycle 90 for the elastic device as the elastic is loading and resistance is climbing. Thus the constant resistance device forces work throughout the angular range, while never exceeding a predetermined maximum resistance force, but the elastic may provide inadequate resistance throughout the early cycle 90. This is important because strength is best developed throughout the range of motion that is actually exercised under load, so elastic mechanisms may inadequately load the muscles in the early cycle 90. The shaded area 86 thus represents the inefficiency in an elastic resistance system compared to a constant resistance system.

Early cycle loading in an elastic model can be elevated by pre-tensioning the elastic so that at angle zero the resistance is already up to the reference value 82. But the device now has lost its neutral bias resting position and at all angles throughout the cycle the wearer will be fighting a bias which may be undesirable. In addition, pre-tensioning the elastic will also elevate resistance throughout the late cycle 92 potentially above what the wearer can tolerate or at least sufficiently that the wearer will simply shorten their stride to avoid the resistance spike. Thus maintaining resistance within a range of at least a threshold minimum and a maximum throughout the angular range of motion is preferred. The maximum will generally be less than about 3×, generally less than about 2× the minimum, and in different settings no more than about 80%, 50%, 25%, 10% or 5% or 2% greater than the minimum. In general, substantially constant resistance means plus or minus no more than about 10% from the average resistance throughout the working range.

Referring to FIG. 3, the performance of a hybrid garment is illustrated, in which both a constant resistance component and an elastic component are present. This might be accomplished, in the copper rod example described below, by securing one or more spring wire elements (stainless steel, NiTinol or other elastic metals or polymers known in the art) in parallel with the passive resistive element. Bending across the joint thus both bends the passive component as well as the spring or elastic component.

Thus the net force curve on, for example, extension is illustrated as 94 and represents the sum of the resistance from the passive and elastic components assuming the elastic component is configured to be fully relaxed at the reference angle zero. However, under flexion, the elastic component assists flexion in opposition to the resistance from the passive component, producing a curve more like 96 in which resistance to flexion climbs as the angular deviation returns to the reference point. Hybrid elastic/passive configurations can be used where a different resistance profile is desired for flexion compared to extension across a particular motion segment.

In any of the foregoing embodiments, it may be desirable to provide a release which disengages the resistance to movement upon an abrupt increase in force from the wearer. The release may be in the form of a releasable detent or interference joint which can be opened by elastic deformation under force above a preset threshold which is set above normally anticipated forces in normal use. If a wearer should stumble, the reflexive movement to regain balance will activate the release and eliminate resistance to further movement, as a safety feature.

Resistance exercise devices in accordance with the present invention may also be configured for use with larger muscle groups or more complex muscle sets, such as the exercise device illustrated in FIG. 4 which is adapted for providing resistance to movement at the hip. The exercise device 150 comprises a superior attachment structure such as a waistband 152 for encircling the waist of the wearer. Waistband 152 if provided with a closure structure 154, such as at least a first attachment structure 156 and optionally a second attachment structure 160. First attachment structure 156 and second attachment structure 160 cooperate with corresponding attachment structures 158 and 162 to enable secure closure of the waistband 152 about the waist of the wearer, in an adjustable manner. Any of a variety of closure structures such as belts, buckles, hook and loop or Velcro strips, snaps, or others disclosed elsewhere herein may be utilized.

A first (left) resistance element 164 is secured to the waistband 152 and extends across the hip to a first inferior attachment structure 166. The first inferior attachment structure 166 may comprise any of a variety of structures for securing the first resistance element 164 to the wearer's leg. As illustrated, the first inferior attachment structure 166 is in the form of a cuff 168, adapted to surround the wearer's knee. The cuff 168 may alternatively be configured to surround the wearer's leg above or below the knee, depending upon the desired performance characteristics. Cuff 168 may be provided with an axial slit for example running the full length of the medial side, so that the cuff may be advanced laterally around the wearer's leg, and then secured using any of a variety of snap fit, Velcro or other adjustable fasteners. Alternatively, the cuff 168 may comprise a stretchable fabric cuff, that may be advanced over the wearer's foot and up the wearer's leg into position at the knee or other desired location.

As will be apparent from FIG. 4, the exercise device 150, as worn, will provide resistance to movement at the hip in an amount that depends upon the construction of first resistance element 164. First resistance element 164 may comprise any of a variety of structures or fabrics which provide resistance to movement, as have been described elsewhere herein. In one embodiment, first resistance element 164 comprises one or more elongate elements such as a rod or bar of homogeneous bendable material. In one embodiment, the first resistance element comprises one or more elongate copper rods, having a diameter within the range of from about 0.125 or 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches. As the wearer advances a leg forward from a first, neutral position to a second, forward position, the rod bends to provide resistance. The malleable nature of this material causes the force to stop once the leg has reached the second, forward position. As the leg is brought rearwardly from the second, forward position, the rod again bends, providing resistance to movement in the opposite direction. This resistance may be considered passive, and the rod exerts no directional bias in the absence of motion by the wearer.

Alternatively, the first resistance element 164 may comprise a material which provides an active bias in any predetermined direction. For example, a rod or coil spring comprising a material such as spring steel, Nitinol, or a variety of others known in the art, will provide zero bias in its predetermined neutral position. However, any movement of the wearer's leg from the predetermined zero position will be opposed by a continuous and typically increasing bias. Thus, even when the wearer's leg is no longer in motion, the first resistance element 164 will urge the wearer's leg back to the preset zero position.

The exercise device 150 is preferably bilaterally symmetrical, having a second resistance element 170 and a second inferior attachment 172 formed essentially as a mirror image of the structure described above.

The bending characteristics of the first resistance element near the attachment to the belt may be optimized by providing a first tubular support concentrically disposed over a second tubular support in a telescoping relationship which is concentrically disposed over the first resistance element 164. This structure enables control of the flexibility characteristics and moves the bending point inferiorly along the length of the first resistance element 164.

The first and second resistance elements 164 and 170 can be provided in a set of graduated resistance values such as by increasing cross-sectional area, or by increase in the number of resistance elements 164. Thus, the belt can be configured to support a first, second and third tubular support elements for receiving a first, second and third resistance element 164. One or two or three or four or more resistance elements may be provided, depending upon the construction of the resistance element as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

At least a right and a left safety release may be provided, to release the resistance from the right and left resistance elements in response to a sudden spike in force applied by the wearer such as might occur if the wearer were to try to recover from missing a step or tripping. The release may be configured in a variety of ways depending upon the underlying device design. For example, in a solid flexible rod resistance element, a short section of rod may be constructed of a different material which would snap under a sudden load spike. That resistance element would be disposed and replaced once the release has been actuated. Alternatively, a male component on a first section of the resistance element can be snap fit with a female component on a second section of the resistance element, such that the two components become reversibly disengaged from each other upon application of a sudden force above the predetermined safety threshold. Two components can be pivotable connected to each other along the length of the resistance element, but with a coefficient of static friction such that movement of the pivot is only permitted in response to loads above the predetermined threshold. Alternatively, one or more of the belt connectors or corresponding inferior connectors can be releasably secured with respect to the wearer. Any of a variety of interference fit attachment structures or hook and loop fasteners can be optimized to reversibly release upon application of the threshold pressure. In more complex systems or systems configured for relatively high resistance such as for heavy athletic training, more sophisticated release mechanisms may be configured such as those used in conventional ski bindings and well understood in the art.

Referring to FIG. 5, there is disclosed a further implementation of the present invention, which provides resistance to movement at both the hip as well as the knee. The embodiment of FIG. 5 is similar to that illustrated in FIG. 4, with the addition of a third resistance element 186 and a fourth resistance element 188 extending from the knee to the foot, ankle or leg below the knee. In the illustrated embodiment, the third resistance element 186 extends inferiorly to a foot or ankle support 190. The fourth resistance element 188 extends inferiorly to a second foot or ankle support 192. The foot or ankle supports 190 and 192 may comprise any of a variety of structures, such as an ankle band for surrounding the ankle, a boot or sock for wearing on the foot, and/or a shoe or other article to be attached in the vicinity of the foot.

Referring to FIG. 6, there is illustrated a side elevational view of an implementation of the design illustrated in FIG. 5. In this implementation of the invention, a first, second and third resistance elements are provided between the waistband and the knee, to provide a first level of resistance to movement. A first and second resistance elements are provided between the knee and the ankle, to provide a second, lower level of resistance between the femur and the ankle. Thus, different muscle groups may be challenged by different level of resistance as has been discussed previously herein.

A partially exploded view of a segment of a resistance element 164 is illustrated in FIG. 8. In one implementation of the invention, the attachment structure for attaching a resistance element to the body may be one or more belts, cuffs or garments as has been described herein. The attachment structure is provided with at least one sleeve 194 extending on a generally superior inferior axis on each side of the body and optionally on the medial side (inseam) of each leg. Sleeve 194 comprises any of a variety of flexible materials, such as fabric or polymeric tubing.

Sleeve 194 removably receives a resistance core 196. Core 196 may comprise one or more solid copper rods, or other element which resist bending. A plurality of sleeves 194 may be provided on a garment or other attachment structure, such as two or three or four or five or more, extending in parallel to each other across a joint or other motion segment to provide a multi-component resistance element. The wearer may elect to introduce a resistance core 196 into each of the sleeves 194 (e.g. for maximum resistance) or only into some of the sleeves 194 leaving other sleeves empty. In this manner, the wearer can customize the level of resistance as desired.

Passive resistance or biased resistance to movement in accordance with the present invention may be built into a partial or full body suit, depending upon the desired performance characteristics. Resistance may be built into the body suit in any of a variety of ways, such as by incorporation of any of the foregoing structures (wires or other malleable materials) into the body suit, and/or incorporation of elastic stretch or flex panels of different fabrics as will be disclosed below.

Referring to FIG. 7, there is illustrated a front elevational view of a garment in the form of a full body suit 220, incorporating resistance elements in accordance with the present invention. Although illustrated as a full body suit, the garment may be in the form of pants alone, from the waist down, or an upper body garment similar to a shirt. In general, the body suit is provided with one or more resistance elements spanning a joint of interest, as has been discussed herein. The resistance element may be any of the devices disclosed previously herein, either removably or permanently attached to the fabric of the garment. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of sleeves 194 extend proximally from the waist 222 down to the ankle 224 for permanently or removably receiving corresponding resistance elements therein. Preferably, the resistance elements may be removably carried by the garment, such as via an opening 226 illustrated at the superior end of sleeve 194, thereby enabling customization of the resistance level by the wearer. In addition, the resistance elements may preferably be removed for laundering the garment, and for taking the garment on and off. The garment can more easily be positioned on the body without the resistance elements, and the resistance elements may be introduced into the sleeve 194 or other receiving structure thereafter.

In addition, or as an alternative to the resistance elements disclosed previously herein, the garment may be provided with one or more elastic panels positioned and oriented to resist movement in a preselected direction. For example, an elastic panel having an axis of elongation in the inferior superior direction, and positioned behind the knee, can provide resistance to extension of the knee. Alternatively, a stretch panel on the front or anterior surface of the leg, spanning the knee, can bias the knee in the direction of extension and resist flexion. Panels 228 and 230 illustrated in FIG. 7 can be configured to stretch upon flexion of the knee thereby biasing the garment in the direction of extension. Resistance to flexion or extension or other movement of any other joint or motion segment in the body can be provided, by orienting one or more stretch panels of fabric in a similar fashion. In a passive resistance garment, the panels may comprise a plurality of wires or strands attached to or woven or braided into the fabric, as discussed below.

Any of a variety of fabrics may be utilized to form the garment, preferably materials which are highly breathable thereby allowing heat and moisture to escape, and having sufficient structural integrity to transfer force between the body and the resistance elements. The fabric can be compression or other elastic fabric, or an inelastic material with elastic panels in position to load specific muscle groups, or metal or metal—nonmetal hybrids depending upon the desired performance.

The woven resistance fabric of the present invention may comprise any of a variety of weaves typically between at least a first support filament and at least a second resistance filament. For example, the resistance fabric may comprise weaves such as plain weaves, basket weaves, rep or rib weaves, twill weaves (e.g., straight twill, reverse twill, herringbone twill), satin weaves, and double weaves (e.g., double-width, tubular double weave, reversed double weave). In general, the weave is a convenient structure for supporting a plurality of resistance imparting strands in a manner that can be made into or supported by a garment like structure that can be carried by a wearer's body. Nonwoven constructs can also be utilized, such as by securing a plurality of nonwoven (e.g., parallel) resistance strands (e.g., metal wire strands) to each other or to a supporting fabric base. Securing may be accomplished by dip coating, spray coating or otherwise coating or embedding the resistance strands with a flexible adhesive or other polymer, or weaving or braiding, to produce a flexible resistance band or sheet.

The term “strand” as used herein is a generic term for an elongate, thin flexible element suitable for weaving. For example, strands may include, but are not limited to monofilaments, filaments twisted together, fibers spun together or otherwise joined, yarns, roving yarns, crepe yarns, ply yarns, cord yarns, threads, strings, filaments laid together without twist, single strand or multi strand wire as well as other configurations. Strand includes elements sometimes referred to herein as rods, such that for example a 0.125 inch diameter copper rod is a relatively thick strand. Strand diameters will generally be at least about 0.018 inches, at least about 0.025 inches, at least about 0.040 inches, at least about 0.050 inches or at least about 0.10 inches or more, depending upon the construction and desired performance. For strands that are not circular in cross sections, the foregoing values can readily be converted to cross sectional areas as is understood in the art. Unless otherwise specified, references herein to strand diameters or cross sectional areas along the length of a strand or of a group of strands refers to an average value for the corresponding diameters or cross sectional areas.

A woven resistance fabric embodiment generally comprise at least a first and second sets of relatively straight strands, the warp and the weft, which cross and interweave to form a fabric. Typically, the warp and weft yarn cross at approximately a right angle as woven, but may cross at any angle such as at least about 45, 65, 75 or 85 degrees. Also typically, fabric is woven to have a given width, but may have any desired length. The warp yarn runs in the length direction of the fabric, which is generally the longer dimension thereof, and the weft yarn runs in the crosswise or width direction thereof, which is generally the shorter dimension. It may be convenient to weave passive resistance fabric such that the warp strand is a metal such as copper and the weft is a conventional athletic fabric material. The pants or body suit or resistance strips would be cut with the long axis of the resistance strands primarily running in an inferior—superior direction in the example of a pant, and the non-resistance strands run in a circumferential direction relative to the leg. A textile and/or fabric may be woven in a single-layer weave and/or in a plural-layer weave. It is noted that textiles and/or fabrics having two or more layers, i.e. plural layers, are commonly and generally referred to as multilayer weaves. Certain weaves may be referred to specifically, e.g., a two-layer woven fabric may be referred to as a double weave. For example, an inner liner may be provided for comfort, to separate the wearer from the resistance layer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a first warp or weft fibers may be aesthetic fibers that are selected for their aesthetic appeal (e.g., color, texture, ability to receive dye, drapeability, etc.). Examples of such fibers may include natural fibers, cotton, wool, rayon, polyamid fibers, modeacrylic fibers, high modulus fibers, Kevlar® fibers, Nomex® fibers, and other fibers formulated to produce or exhibit aesthetic characteristics.

A second warp or weft fibers may be performance fibers that are selected for their strength or protective properties (e.g., cut, abrasion, ballistic, and/or fire resistance characteristics, etc.). Examples of performance fibers include high molecular weight polyethylene, aramid, carbon fiber, Kevlar® fibers, Nomex® fibers, fiberglass, and other fibers formulated to produce or exhibit performance characteristics. Many performance fibers are not aesthetically desirable (e.g., don't receive dyes or colors well, etc.); however, by structuring a fabric in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, traditional aesthetic problems associated with such fibers may have a significantly reduced effect given that such fibers are generally hidden from view.

A third warp or weft fibers may be comfort fibers that are selected for their comfort-providing qualities (e.g., softness against a wearer's skin, cooling properties, etc.). Examples of comfort fibers include cellulosic fibers such as cotton, rayon, wool, microfiber polyester, nylon, and other fibers formulated to produce or exhibit comfort characteristics.

In addition, the fibers that will extend around the leg and transverse to the metal fibers may be stretchable fibers that are selected to provide flexibility to the fabric to allow the fabric to have a better fit on the wearer and to allow the wearer more unrestricted movement while wearing the fabric. Examples of stretchable fibers include Lycra® fibers, Spandex® fibers, composite fibers that include Lycra® or Spandex® fibers, Kevlar® fibers, high modulus polyethylene, wool, rayon, nylon, modeacrylic fibers, and other fibers formulated to exhibit stretch characteristics.

Materials used for the shape memory element strands need only be biocompatible or able to be made biocompatible. Suitable materials for the shape memory element strands include shape memory metals and shape memory polymers. Suitable shape memory metals include, for example, TiNi (Nitinol), CuZnAl, and FeNiAl alloys. Particularly preferred are “superelastic” metal alloys. Superelasticity refers to a shape memory metal alloy's ability to spring back to its austenitic form from a stress-induced martensite at temperatures above austenite finish temperature. The austenite finish temperature refers to the temperature at which the transformation of a shape memory metal from the martensitic phase to the austenitic phase completes.

For example, martensite in a Nitinol alloy may be stress induced if stress is applied at a temperature above the Nitinol alloy's austenite start temperature. Since austenite is the stable phase at temperatures above austenite finish temperature under no-load conditions, the material springs back to its original shape when the stress is removed. This extraordinary elasticity is called superelasticity. In one example, Nitinol wire may be in the superelastic condition where the wire has been cold worked at least 40% and given an aging heat treatment at approximately 500 degrees Celsius for at least 10 minutes. The Nitinol wire is in its fully superelastic condition where the use temperature is greater than the austenite finish temperature of the Nitinol wire.

The term “elastic” is used to describe any component that is capable of substantial elastic deformation, which results in a bias to return to its non-deformed or neutral state. It should be understood that the term “elastic” includes but is not intended to be limited to a particular class of elastic materials. In some cases, one or more elastic portions can be made of an elastomeric material including, but not limited to: natural rubber, synthetic polyisoprene, butyl rubber, halogenated butyl rubbers, polybutadiene, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber, hydrogenated nitrile rubbers, chloroprene rubber (such as polychloroprene, neoprene and bayprene), ethylene propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), epichlorohydrin rubber (ECO), polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber (FVMQ), fluoroelastomers (such as Viton, Tecnoflon, Fluorel, Aflas and Dai-EI), perfluoroelastomers (such as Tecnoflon PFR, Kalrez, Chemraz, Perlast), polyether block amides (PEBA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), various types of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), for example Elastron, as well as any other type of material with substantial elastic properties. In other cases, an elastic portion could be made of another type of material that is capable of elastic deformation or composite weaves of elastic and inelastic fibers or threads. In one exemplary embodiment, each elastic portion may include neoprene potentially augmented by a secondary elastic component such as sheets or strips of a latex or other rubber depending upon the desired elastic force and dynamic range of stretch.

Another fabric with a high modulus of elasticity is elastane, which is known in the art of compression fabrics. The material may be a polyester/elastane fabric with moisture-wicking properties. For example, the fabric may comprise 5 oz/yd.sup.2 micro-denier polyester/elastane warp knit tricot fabric that will wick moisture from the body and include 76% 40 denier dull polyester and 24% 55 denier spandex knit. The high elastane content allows for proper stretch and support. The fabric may be a tricot construction at a 60″ width. The mean warp stretch may be 187% at 10 lbs of load, and the mean width stretch may be 90% at 10 lbs of load. This fabric also may have a wicking finish applied to it. Such a fabric is available from UNDER ARMOUR™ Although the foregoing fabric is given as an example, it will be appreciated that any of a variety of other fabric or other materials known in the art may be used to construct the garment 100, including compression fabrics and non-compression fabrics. Examples of such fabrics include, but are not limited to, knit, woven and non-woven fabrics comprised of nylon, polyester, cotton, elastane, any of the materials identified above and blends thereof. Any of the foregoing can be augmented with mechanical resistance elements, such as bendable rods, springs and others disclosed herein.

The fabric can be characterized by the total cross sectional area of metal per unit length of fabric, measured transverse to the direction of the metal strands. For example, a plain weave having parallel metal strands each having a diameter of 0.020 inches, each adjacent strands separated by 0.020 inches, will have a metal density of 25 strands per inch. The sum of the cross sections of the 25 strands is approximately 0.008 square inches.

The optimal metal density will depend upon garment design, such as whether the entire circumference of a leg is surrounded by hybrid fabric, or only discrete panels will include the hybrid fiber, the presence of any supplemental resistance elements, and the desired resistance provided by a given motion segment on the garment. In general, the metal density will be at least about 0.010 square inches of metal per running inch of fabric, and may be at least about 0.020, at least about 0.030 and in some implementations at least about 0.040 square inches of metal per inch. Most fabrics will have within the range of from about 0.020 and about 0.060 square inches of metal per inch of fabric, and often within the range of from about 0.025 and about 0.045 square inches per inch of fabric.

Referring to FIGS. 9A, 9B, 10 and 11, there is illustrated a side opening pant embodiment of the present invention which can support either resistance fabric, resistance rods or both types of resistance element. The pant 100 comprises a waist 102 which may be opened or closed or tightened by a fastener 104. Fastener 104 may be any of a variety of preferably low profile and comfortable adjustable fasteners such as Velcro or a belt buckle.

A right leg 106 comprises a resistance panel 108 and a side opening 110. The resistance panel runs from the waist to the ankle and may be made from or support a resistance fabric and or resistance strands. The resistance panel may have an average width measured in the circumferential direction around the leg of no more than about 2″, sometimes no more than about 4″ and often no more than about 6″ or 8″ so that it does not wrap all the way around the leg. Typically, the resistance panel will be oriented to run along the lateral side of the leg, although additional resistance panels may run along the medial side, the posterior or anterior or any one or combination of the foregoing, depending upon the desired performance.

The resistance panel may be constructed from a resistance fabric, or may have one or more panels of resistance fabric carried thereon. The resistance panels may also or alternatively be provided with at least one or two or three or four or more attachment structures or guides such as sleeve 109, for receiving a resistance element such as a malleable rod or other resistance element disclosed elsewhere herein. The sleeve may have a closed inferior end and an open or openable superior end, to removably receive the resistance element therein, so that the wearer can customize the resistance level as desired.

In the illustrated embodiment, the right resistance panel 108 is securely held against the leg by a plurality of straps 112 which extend across the opening 110. Each strap has a first end which is preferably permanently secured to the resistance panel 108, and a second end which may be releasably secured to the resistance panel such as by Velcro or other releasable fastener. The left and right legs are preferably bilaterally symmetrical.

The straps 112 preferably comprise a stretch fabric such as a weave with elastic fibers at least running in the longitudinal direction. One or two or three or more straps 112 may be provided both above and below the knee, to securely hold the resistance panel in place. Straps 112 may be oriented perpendicular to the long axis of the leg, or an angle as illustrated to provide a criss cross configuration.

Referring to FIG. 12, there is illustrated a flat pattern for a modified implementation of the invention. Waistband 250 extends between a left end 252 and a right end 254. A fastener 256 such as one or two or more Velcro straps 258 may be provided on either end of the waistband 250.

A left resistance panel 260 and right resistance panel 261are attached to or formed integrally with the waistband and configured for attachment to the wearer's left and right legs, respectively. Left resistance panel 260 extends between a superior end 262 attached to the waistband 250 and an inferior end 264 which may be attached to the wearer below the knee such as in the vicinity of the ankle or to a shoe. A plurality of straps 266 are attached at one end 268 to the resistance panel 260 and a second free end 270 is configured so that the strap 266 can be wrapped around the wearer's leg and the free end 270 can be attached to the resistance panel 260 at an attachment zone 274 such as with Velcro or other fastener. In one implementation the free end 270 is fed through a buckle and looped back and attached to the strap 266, so that the strap can be easily tensioned as desired before fastening the fastener. At least about 4 or 6 or 8 or more straps may be provided for each leg, depending upon the materials used and the intended level of resistance that the garment will impose.

Each resistance panel can be made from a resistance fabric, or carry resistance fabric thereon. Alternatively, each resistance panel can be provided with attachment structures such as one or two or more connectors or sleeves for receiving resistance elements. In the illustrated embodiment, a first sleeve 276 spans both the hip and knee, and a second, shorter sleeve (not illustrated) spans the hip, for receiving copper rods or other resistance element. As discussed previously, the garment will generally impose a greater resistance across the hip than across the knee.

The resistance panel 260 may comprise both resistance fabric, as well as an attachment structure such as a sleeve for receiving a resistance rod or for the attachment of additional resistance panels. This enables wearer customization of the resistance level and profile of the garment.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a resistance garment is shown having a waist or belt 250 and left and right resistance panels 260 and 261. In this implementation, the resistance panels may have an average width of no more than about 8 inches, no more than about 6 inches, no more than about 4 inches, no more than about 2 inches, or no more than about 1 inch depending upon whether resistance is generated by a fabric or other resistance element.

The left resistance panel is associated with at least a first strap 280 and as illustrated also a second strap 282 which are secured to the waist and or the resistance panel 260. As shown in FIG. 13, the first strap is wrapped helically around the leg and secured to the ankle by attachment to itself, or to the left resistance panel 260 or to an ankle strap 284 that may be provided at the inferior end of the resistance panel 260. The second strap 282 may then be wrapped helically around the leg in the opposite direction and secured to the ankle At each of the crossing points between the straps 280 and 282 and the resistance panel 260 complementary Velcro panels align and create attachment points. Preferably the straps comprise stretch fabric to hold the resistance panel snugly in place yet accommodate moving musculature.

Another implementation is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in which a lateral resistance panel 290 is provided on each leg, as well as an anterior resistance panel 292. Anterior resistance panels may be provided with or without lateral or medial or posterior resistance panels depending upon the desired performance of the garment. While lateral or medial resistance panels will primarily bend in response to stride, anterior or posterior panels may both bend, as well as axially elongate and contract in response to stride.

Claims

1. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device, comprising:

a waist band, for attachment around the waist of a wearer;

a left leg and right leg superior leg attachment structures, for attachment to a leg of the wearer in between the waist band and the wearer's knee;

a left leg and right leg inferior leg attachment structures, for attachment to the leg of the wearer below the knee; and

at least one left leg resistance panel and at least one right leg resistance panel extending between the waist band and corresponding inferior leg attachment structures;

wherein the resistance panel imparts bidirectional resistance to movement throughout a range of motion.

2. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein each of the superior leg attachment structures comprises a band for wrapping around the leg above the knee.

3. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein each of the inferior leg attachment structures comprises a band for wrapping around the leg below the knee.

4. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein the resistance panel comprises a malleable material.

5. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 4, wherein the material comprises copper.

6. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 4, wherein the resistance panel comprises a plurality of malleable strands, extending in an inferior—superior direction in an as worn orientation.

7. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 6, wherein the plurality of malleable strands are woven into a fabric.

8. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 4, wherein the sum of the areas of all of the strands, taken in a transverse cross section through the strands in between the waist and the superior leg attachments is within the range of from about 0.020 and about 0.060 square inches per inch of the resistance panel measured in a circumferential direction around the leg for each leg.

9. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein the resistance panel comprises a pivotable resistance element.

10. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein the superior attachment structures and the inferior attachment structures comprise first and second regions of a garment.

11. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein the resistance device imposes a first level of resistance to movement across the hip and a second level of resistance across the knee, and the first level is greater than the second level.

12. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein each of a left and right resistance panels imposes a resistance to movement of at least about 10 foot pounds in between the waist and the superior attachment structure.

13. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 1, wherein the device imposes a resistance to movement at the hip of at least about 10 foot pounds, and resistance to movement at the knee of at least about 5 foot pounds, for each of the right and left legs.

14. A low profile, wearable dynamic resistance device as in claim 6, wherein the strands have an average cross sectional diameter of at least about 0.020 inches.