COLLAPSIBLE EXERCISE HURDLE, COLLAPSIBLE EXERCISE HURDLE AND MAT SYSTEM, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

Abstract

A collapsible exercise hurdle, an exercise mat compatible with the exercise hurdle, and a method of collapsing the exercise hurdle are disclosed. In one embodiment, the exercise hurdle can include a first hurdle panel, a second hurdle panel, and a hurdle spacer. The first hurdle panel can be coupled to the second hurdle panel. The first hurdle panel can comprise a first panel frame. The second hurdle panel can comprise a second panel frame. The exercise hurdle can have an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The first panel frame and the second panel frame can be twisted into overlapping coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/405,791 filed Oct. 7, 2016, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of exercise equipment for strength, agility, or power training, and, more specifically, to a collapsible exercise hurdle, a combined exercise hurdle and mat system, and methods of use thereof.

BACKGROUND

Plyometrics and other high-intensity body weight exercises have become an integral part of the workout routines of amateur and professional athletes alike. In addition, participants in sports such as football, basketball, boxing, and mixed martial arts have relied on plyometrics and other high-intensity body weight exercises to increase their power and explosiveness. One common set of plyometric workouts involve the use of hurdles or obstacles. In these types of workouts, a user often performs front facing or lateral jumps over hurdles or obstacles within a preset time period.

However, traditional hurdles or obstacles are often heavy or take up a large physical footprint. This makes such equipment undesirable for confined workout spaces such as home gyms, garages, or backyards and difficult to transport. In addition, a user or trainer often spends up to several minutes setting up such traditional hurdles or obstacles which can reduce the appeal of this type of equipment for busy athletes or trainees. Moreover, traditional hurdles or obstacles can inadvertently shift or move around during the course of a workout which can interrupt the flow of the workout and require the user or trainer to repeatedly adjust the hurdles or obstacles.

Therefore, a solution is needed which is portable, durable, and easy to deploy. In addition, such equipment should be cost-effective to manufacture and able to withstand wear and tear in the course of usage.

SUMMARY

A collapsible exercise hurdle, a method of collapsing such a hurdle, and an exercise system including the exercise hurdle and an exercise mat are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise hurdle can include a first hurdle panel, a second hurdle panel, and a hurdle spacer. The first hurdle panel can be coupled to the second hurdle panel.

The first hurdle panel can comprise a first panel frame. The second hurdle panel can comprise a second panel frame. The hurdle spacer can be coupled to the second hurdle panel.

The exercise hurdle can have an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The first panel frame and the second panel frame can be twisted into overlapping coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration.

The first hurdle panel can further comprise a first fabric sleeve and the first panel frame can be within the first fabric sleeve. The second hurdle panel can further comprise a second fabric sleeve and the second panel frame can be within the second fabric sleeve. At least one of the first fabric sleeve and the second fabric sleeve can comprise a synthetic fabric such as nylon. The first hurdle panel can be coupled to the second hurdle panel by stitches connecting the first fabric sleeve and the second fabric sleeve.

The first hurdle panel can further comprise a first mesh panel portion and the second hurdle panel can further comprise a second mesh panel portion. The first panel frame can surround or serve as a boundary for the first mesh panel. The second panel frame can surround or serve as a boundary for the second mesh panel.

The hurdle spacer can comprise a first fastener component. The first hurdle panel can comprise a second fastener component complementary to the first fastener component. The first fastener component can releasably attach to the second fastener to space apart the first hurdle panel and the second hurdle panel and allow the exercise hurdle to stand upright. The hurdle spacer can comprise a magnet. The magnet can be embedded or sewn into a fabric covering of the hurdle spacer.

The first panel frame and the second panel frame can be made of an elongate strip of metal formed into a closed loop. At least one of the first panel frame and the second panel frame can have a frame width-to-thickness ratio of between approximately 2.0 to 3.0, and more specifically, about 2.5. The first panel frame and the second panel frame can be twisted and collapsed into at least three coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration. The exercise hurdle can also be self-expandable such that the exercise hurdle self-expands or automatically expands into the expanded configuration from the collapsed configuration without intervention from a user.

In another embodiment, an exercise system is disclosed. The exercise system can comprise the exercise hurdle previously discussed and an exercise mat compatible for use with the exercise hurdle.

The exercise hurdle can include the first hurdle panel comprising the first panel frame and the second hurdle panel comprising the second panel frame. The second hurdle panel can be coupled to the first hurdle panel.

The exercise hurdle can also comprise a hurdle spacer comprising a magnet. The hurdle spacer can be coupled to the second hurdle panel.

The exercise mat can comprise a plurality of metallic placement markers affixed to the exercise mat. For example, the plurality of metallic placement markers can be affixed to a surface of the exercise mat. In this embodiment, the magnet of the hurdle spacer can be configured to releasably couple to at least one of the plurality of metallic placement markers affixed to the surface of the exercise mat. The plurality of metallic placement markers can be affixed to the exercise mat via adhesives.

The exercise mat can comprise thermoplastic rubber, nitrile butadiene rubber, polyvinyl chloride, or a combination thereof. One side of the exercise mat can comprise one or more longitudinal or lateral dividing lines. The dividing lines can be painted or printed, such as silk screen printed, on the exercise mat to divide the exercise mat into quadrants or frames. Each such quadrant or frame can also comprise a number, letter, or character painted or printed on to a surface of the exercise mat within the quadrant or frame. The painted or printed dividing lines, quadrants, or frames can be used as guidance lines or markers for various exercises or workouts involving the exercise mat. Another side of the exercise mat can be used for traditional floor or flexibility exercises such as yoga, planks, pushups, sit-ups, crunches, ab rolls, or a variety of stretching exercises.

In yet another embodiment, a method of collapsing a hurdle is disclosed. The method can comprise aligning a first hurdle panel of the hurdle with a second hurdle panel of the hurdle such that a first panel frame of the first hurdle panel overlaps a second panel frame of the second hurdle panel. The first hurdle panel can be coupled to the second hurdle panel.

The method can also comprise twisting a first overlapped set of corners of the first panel frame and the second panel frame in a first rotational direction. The method can also comprise simultaneously holding steady or twisting a second overlapped set of corners of the first panel frame and the second panel in a second rotational direction. The first overlapped set of corners can be substantially diagonal to the second overlapped set of corners.

The first rotational direction can be a clockwise rotational direction or a counterclockwise rotational direction. The first rotational direction can also be a rotation or twisting motion away from the body of a user. The second rotational direction can be a rotation or twisting motion toward the body of the user. The first panel frame and the second panel frame can be collapsed into a plurality of overlapping coiled rings.

The method can further comprise bringing the first overlapped set of corners toward the second overlapped set of corners to collapse the first panel frame and the second panel frame into the plurality of overlapping coiled rings. The method can also comprise detaching a hurdle spacer coupled to the second hurdle panel from the first hurdle panel prior to aligning the first hurdle panel with the second hurdle panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of a collapsible exercise hurdle in a splayed configuration.

FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of a hurdle panel.

FIG. 2A is a side view of an embodiment of the collapsible exercise hurdle in a hurdle configuration.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the collapsible exercise hurdle in a hurdle configuration.

FIG. 2C is a front elevational view of an embodiment of a collapsible short exercise hurdle in a hurdle configuration.

FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a collapsible exercise hurdle having a hurdle spacer with a rotatable spacer distal portion.

FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of a hurdle panel with a spacer sleeve of the hurdle spacer cut open to expose an interior spacer lumen.

FIG. 3C illustrates a close up of a downward facing side of a portion of a hurdle spacer.

FIG. 3D illustrates a spacer support and a magnet coupled to the spacer support.

FIG. 4A illustrates a part of a method of collapsing the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 4B illustrates a part of the method of collapsing the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 4C illustrates a part of the method of collapsing the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 4D illustrates a part of the method of collapsing the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 4E is a black-and-white image of the exercise hurdle in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 4F is a black-and white image of another side of the exercise hurdle in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 4G illustrates the collapsible exercise hurdle self-expanding into an expanded configuration.

FIG. 5A is a black-and-white image of an embodiment of a hurdle panel with a part of the panel frame exposed.

FIG. 5B illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of a panel frame.

FIG. 5C is a black-and-white image of a close up of a segment of a panel frame having a frame connector.

FIG. 5D illustrates a close up of an embodiment of a frame connector coupled to one end of an elongate strip.

FIG. 5E illustrates a side elevational view of a panel frame.

FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment of an exercise mat compatible for use with the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 6B is a black-and-white image of the exercise mat compatible for use with the exercise hurdle.

FIG. 6C is a black-and-white image of a close-up of an embodiment of a metallic placement marker affixed to the exercise mat.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of the exercise hurdle in a hurdle configuration detachably coupled to the exercise mat.

FIG. 7B illustrates a plurality of exercise hurdles of various heights detachably coupled to the exercise mat.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example workout undertaken by a user involving the exercise mat and the collapsible exercise hurdle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of a collapsible exercise hurdle 100 in a splayed configuration 101. In addition to the splayed configuration 101, the exercise hurdle 100 can also be folded, contorted, or otherwise manipulated into a hurdle configuration 200 (see FIGS. 2B and 2C) or a collapsed configuration 410 (see FIG. 4E). In one embodiment, the exercise hurdle 100 can include a first hurdle panel 102, a second hurdle panel 104, and a hurdle spacer 106.

The first hurdle panel 102 can further comprise a first panel sleeve 108 surrounding or bordering a first mesh panel portion 110. The second hurdle panel 104 can further comprise a second panel sleeve 112 surrounding or bordering a second mesh panel portion 114. The first mesh panel portion 110 can be coupled to the first panel sleeve 108 by stitches (i.e., sewn to the first panel sleeve 108), adhesives, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first mesh panel portion 110 can extend from or be part of the first panel sleeve 108. The second mesh panel portion 114 can be coupled to the second panel sleeve 112 by stitches (i.e., sewn to the first panel sleeve 108), adhesives, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the second mesh panel portion 114 can extend from or be part of the second panel sleeve 112.

The first panel sleeve 108 and the second panel sleeve 112 can be made of or comprise a fabric or textile. In some embodiments, the first panel sleeve 108 and the second panel sleeve 112 can be made of a synthetic fabric. For example, the synthetic fabric can include nylon, polyester, elastane, or a combination thereof. More specifically, the nylon can be Cordura® nylon, oxford cloth nylon, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, any of the first panel sleeve 108 or the second panel sleeve 112 can comprise or be made of an organic fabric or fiber such as hemp, cotton, denim, wool, silk, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the first mesh panel portion 110, the second mesh panel portion 114, or a combination thereof can be made of or comprise nylon mesh. In other embodiments, the first mesh panel portion 110, the second mesh panel portion 114, or a combination thereof can be made of or comprise a medium or heavy polyester mesh. The first mesh panel portion 110, the second mesh panel portion 114, or a combination thereof can be substantially see-through. The first mesh panel portion 110, the second mesh panel portion 114, or a combination thereof can also be elastic or exhibit some elasticity.

The first panel sleeve 108 can contain, enclose, or otherwise comprise a first panel frame (see FIGS. 5A and 5B for an example panel frame 500). For example, the first panel sleeve 108 can comprise a sleeve lumen and the first panel frame can be positioned within the sleeve lumen and serve as a support or scaffold for the first hurdle panel 102. The second panel sleeve 112 can also contain, enclose, or otherwise comprise a second panel frame (see FIGS. 5A and 5B for an example panel frame). For example, the second panel sleeve 112 can comprise a sleeve lumen and the second panel frame can be positioned within the sleeve lumen and serve as a support or scaffold for the second hurdle panel 104. The first panel frame and the second panel frame will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

The first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 can be coupled or connected by a flexible hinge 116. The flexible hinge 116 can allow the first hurdle panel 102 to rotate with respect to the second hurdle panel 104 and vice versa. The flexible hinge 116 can be configured to allow the first hurdle panel 102 to align with or stack on top of the second hurdle panel 104 (and vice versa).

In one embodiment, the flexible hinge 116 can be a piece of fabric or textile attached or affixed to both the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104. For example, the flexible hinge 116 can be attached or affixed to both the first panel sleeve 108 and the second panel sleeve 112 by being sewn to the first panel sleeve 108 or the second panel sleeve 112. In other examples, the flexible hinge 116 can be attached or affixed to both the first panel sleeve 108 and the second panel sleeve 112 by adhesives, clips, snaps, buttons, staples, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the flexible hinge 116 can be a rubber, a synthetic rubber, or other type of elastomer.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the first hurdle panel 102 can be coupled or connected to the second hurdle panel 104 along at least one edge of each of the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the first hurdle panel 102 can be coupled or connected to the second hurdle panel 104 along only one edge of each of the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104. For example, the flexible hinge 116 can be coupled or connected to only one edge of the first hurdle panel 102 and only one edge of the second hurdle panel 104. In other embodiments not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the first hurdle panel 102 can be coupled to the second hurdle panel 104 along two or more edges of each of the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104.

Also, as shown in FIG. 1A, the hurdle spacer 106 can be coupled to the second hurdle panel 104. In other embodiments, the hurdle spacer 106 can be coupled to the first hurdle panel 102. In one embodiment, the hurdle spacer 106 can be coupled to the second hurdle panel 104 by being sewn to the second panel sleeve 112. In other embodiments, the hurdle spacer 106 can be coupled to the second hurdle panel 104 by adhesives, staples, clips, buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, or a combination thereof.

The hurdle spacer 106 can further comprise a spacer sleeve 118 (e.g., a nylon covering), a spacer support 302 (see FIG. 3D), and a spacer distal portion 120. The hurdle spacer 106 can also comprise a first fastener component 122. The first fastener component 122 can be one part or component (such as a hook or loop component) of a hook-and-loop fastener. For example, the hook-and-loop fastener can be a Velcro® fastener. In one example embodiment, the spacer distal portion 120 can be a flap at the end of the spacer sleeve 118 which is rotatable with respect to the spacer sleeve 118. In another embodiment, the spacer distal portion 120 can be connected or coupled to the rest of the hurdle spacer 106 by hinges. In yet additional embodiments, the spacer distal portion 120 can be an elastic or rubber flap coupled to the spacer sleeve 118 by adhesives or stitches. At least one side of the spacer sleeve 118 and the spacer distal portion 120 can be covered by the first fastener component 122. For example, the first fastener component 122 can be sewn on to at least one surface of the spacer sleeve 118 and the spacer distal portion 120.

The first hurdle panel 102 can comprise a second fastener component 124. The second fastener component 124 can be coupled to at least one of the first panel sleeve 108, the first mesh panel portion 110, or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the second fastener component 124 can be affixed or attached to the first hurdle panel 102 by being sewn to part of the first panel sleeve 108. In other embodiments, the second fastener component 124 can be affixed or attached to the first hurdle panel 102 by adhesives, staples, clips, buttons, or a combination thereof. The second fastener component 124 can be one part or component (such as a hook or loop component) of a hook-and-loop fastener. The first fastener component 122 can be complementary to the second fastener component 124.

For example, the first fastener component 122 can be or include loop fasteners and the second fastener component 124 can be or include hook fasteners. In other embodiments not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the first fastener component 122 and the second fastener component 124 can be complementary magnetic fasteners, buttons, snaps, twist ties, or a combination thereof.

The hurdle spacer 106 can serve to space apart the first hurdle panel 102 from the second hurdle panel 104. The hurdle spacer 106 can also serve to connect or couple the first hurdle panel 102 to the second hurdle panel 104. The hurdle spacer 106 can also function as part of a base supporting the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 when the exercise hurdle 100 is in a hurdle configuration 200 (see FIGS. 2A-2C). The hurdle spacer 106 will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

As shown in the example embodiment of FIG. 1A, the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 can both be substantially stadium-shaped (or obround) having a substantially rectangular middle section and rounded or curved shorter lateral sides. The first hurdle panel 102 can achieve this stadium or obround shape or configuration as a result of the shape or configuration of the first panel sleeve 108, the first panel frame, or a combination thereof. The second hurdle panel 104 can achieve this stadium or obround shape or configuration as a result of the shape or configuration of the second panel sleeve 112, the second panel frame, or a combination thereof. One unexpected benefit of the stadium-shaped or obround hurdle panels is the ease with which a user can fold or contort a collapsible exercise hurdle comprising such panels into a substantially circular collapsed configuration (see the collapsed configuration 410 of FIGS. 4E and 4F).

In alternative embodiments not shown in the figures, the first hurdle panel 102, the second hurdle panel 104, or a combination thereof can be substantially elliptical-shaped, oval-shaped, or trapezoid-shaped.

FIG. 1B illustrates another embodiment of a hurdle panel (for example, the first hurdle panel 102) having a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners. Although not shown in FIG. 1B, it is contemplated by this disclosure and it should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that that a second hurdle panel can also be substantially rectangular-shaped with rounded corners. The hurdle panel (for example, the first hurdle panel 102) can achieve this substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners a result of the shape or configuration of the panel sleeve (for example, the first panel sleeve 108), the panel frame 500 (for example, the first panel frame), or a combination thereof. One unexpected benefit of the rectangular-shaped hurdle panels is the ease with which a user can fold or contort a tall collapsible exercise hurdle comprising such panels into a substantially circular collapsed configuration (see the collapsed configuration 410 of FIGS. 4E and 4F).

FIG. 2A is a side view of an embodiment of the collapsible exercise hurdle 100 in a hurdle configuration 200. As shown in FIG. 2A, the exercise hurdle 100 in the hurdle configuration 200 can be substantially shaped as a triangular-prism with a substantially triangular side profile. The first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 can each serve as a sloped or angled side of the triangular-prism. The hurdle spacer 106 and the two bottom edges of the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 can act as a base of the exercise hurdle 100 when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the hurdle configuration 200.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the exercise hurdle 100 in the hurdle configuration 200 can have a hurdle height dimension 202. The hurdle height dimension 202 can be measured from a midpoint along the length of the hurdle spacer 106 to the flexible hinge 116 at the top of the exercise hurdle 100. The hurdle height dimension 202 can vary depending on the dimensions of the hurdle panels. For example, the hurdle height dimension 202 can be between approximately 30.0 cm and 35.0 cm when the exercise hurdle 100 is the medium-sized hurdle shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, and 2B. As a more specific example, the hurdle height dimension 202 can be approximately 31.0 cm when the exercise hurdle 100 is the medium-sized hurdle.

Alternatively, the hurdle height dimension 202 can be between approximately 15.0 cm and 25.0 cm when the exercise hurdle 100 is the short hurdle 204 shown in FIG. 2C. Furthermore, the hurdle height dimension 202 can be between approximately 45.0 cm and 50.0 cm when the exercise hurdle 100 is the tall hurdle 702 of FIG. 7B.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the collapsible exercise hurdle 100 in a hurdle configuration 200. As shown in FIG. 2B, the spacer distal portion 120 can be detachably coupled (e.g., Velcroed or magnetically coupled) to the second fastener component 124 on the first hurdle panel 102. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2B, the spacer distal portion 120 can be rotated or tilted upward with respect to the spacer sleeve 118. The spacer distal portion 120 can be covered by a first fastener component 122 which is complementary to the second fastener component 124 on the first hurdle panel 102. When the spacer distal portion 120 is detachably coupled to the second fastener component 124, the exercise hurdle 100 can be maintained in the hurdle configuration 200 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIG. 2C is a front elevational view of an embodiment of a collapsible short hurdle 204 in a hurdle configuration 200. As previously discussed, the short hurdle 204 can have a hurdle height dimension 202 and the hurdle height dimension 202 can be between approximately 15.0 cm and 25.0 cm. In other embodiments, the hurdle height dimension 202 of the short hurdle 204 can be between approximately 15.0 cm and 19.0 cm. As shown in FIG. 2C, the hurdle panels (any of the first hurdle panel 102 or the second hurdle panel 104) can be substantially shaped as a compressed stadium shape or compressed obround shape.

FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a collapsible exercise hurdle 100 having a hurdle spacer 106 with a rotatable spacer distal portion 120. The spacer distal portion 120 can be rotatable with respect to the spacer sleeve 118 and the remainder of the hurdle spacer 106. For example, the spacer distal portion 120 can be a fabric flap extending from the spacer sleeve 118 configured to rotate or fold upward or downward with respect to the spacer sleeve 118. In another example embodiment, the spacer distal portion 120 can be a rotatable rubber or elastomeric flap coupled to the spacer sleeve 118 of the hurdle spacer 106.

In some embodiments, the spacer distal portion 120 can be permanently biased to tilt or bend at an angle relative to the straight spacer sleeve 118. For example, when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the hurdle configuration 200, the spacer distal portion 120 of the hurdle spacer 106 can be biased to tilt or bend upwards relative to the straight spacer sleeve 118 positioned parallel to the ground or another contact surface. In certain embodiments, the spacer distal portion 120 can be permanently biased by a stitch pattern or stitches aligned transverse to the longitudinal axis of the spacer sleeve 118. Biasing the spacer distal portion 120 to bend or title toward a particular direction can aid a user in more quickly setting up the exercise hurdle 100 by informing the user which side or surface of the hurdle spacer 106 faces the ground or another contact surface.

FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of a hurdle panel with a spacer sleeve 118 of the hurdle spacer 106 cut open to expose a spacer lumen 300. For example, FIG. 3B shows the spacer sleeve 118 of the hurdle spacer 106 cut open and the spacer distal portion 120 removed. In one embodiment, the spacer sleeve 118 can be made of or comprise a fabric sleeve (e.g., Cordura® nylon). In this embodiment, the spacer sleeve 118 can define a spacer lumen 300 within the spacer sleeve 118 extending partially along a length of the spacer sleeve 118. For example, the spacer lumen 300 can be opened by squeezing together the lateral sides of the spacer sleeve 118. In other embodiments not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the spacer sleeve 118 can be a polymeric sleeve fabricated from a molded thermoplastic or a rubber sleeve.

As will be shown in FIG. 3D, a spacer support 302 can be inserted within the spacer lumen 300 to provide rigidity and support for the hurdle spacer 106.

FIG. 3C illustrates a close up of a downward facing side of a portion of a hurdle spacer 106. In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 3C, the spacer sleeve 118 can be made from two pieces of fabric (e.g., Cordura® nylon) sewn together along opposite edges of the two pieces of fabric by stitches 304 (e.g., 420-denier nylon thread). In this embodiment, the downward facing side of the hurdle spacer 106 can be smooth and the upward facing side of the hurdle spacer 106 can be covered by or present the first fastener component 122 (e.g., the loop component of a hook-and-loop fastener like Velcro®).

FIG. 3D illustrates a spacer support 302 and a magnet 306 coupled to the spacer support 302. The spacer support 302 can be positioned within the spacer lumen 300 and completely encased by the spacer sleeve 118. The spacer support 302 can be substantially rigid or inflexible and provide structural support for the hurdle spacer 106. For example, the spacer support 302 can prevent the hurdle spacer 106 in between the two hurdle panels (for example, the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104) from bending or contorting. In some embodiments, the spacer support 302 can be made of or comprise a piece of cardboard, a piece of rigid plastic, a piece of metal, or a combination thereof. The spacer support 302 can be positioned in between the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the hurdle configuration 200. The stitches 304 can also prevent the spacer support 302 from inadvertently shifting or moving laterally when the spacer support 302 is within the spacer sleeve 118.

As shown in FIG. 3D, the spacer support 302 can further comprise a magnet 306 coupled or affixed to the spacer support 302. The magnet 306 can be coupled or affixed to a surface of the spacer support 302. The magnet 306 can be positioned close to a midpoint of the spacer support 302. In one example embodiment, the magnet 306 can be coupled or affixed to the spacer support 302 by adhesives, tape, clips, an interference fit, or a combination thereof. The magnet 306 can be any type of ferromagnetic material or metal capable of magnetically attaching to a complementary ferromagnetic metal or material. For example, the magnet 306 can comprise permanent magnets, ferrite magnets, ceramic magnets, rare-earth magnets, or a combination thereof. As a more specific example, the magnet 306 can be a neodymium iron boron (NdFeB or NIB) magnet, a samarium cobalt (SmCo) magnet, or an aluminum nickel cobalt (Alnico) magnet.

The spacer support 302 can be inserted into the spacer lumen 300 in such a way that the magnet 306 faces downward or below the spacer support 302 when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the hurdle configuration 200 and placed on the ground or another contact surface. By facing the magnet 306 or by ensuring that the magnet 306 is below the spacer support 302 when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the hurdle configuration 200, the magnet 306 can be used to detachably couple the exercise hurdle 100 with another piece of exercise equipment such as the exercise mat 600 of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 3D also illustrates that the spacer support 302 can have a spacer length dimension 308. In some embodiments, the spacer length dimension 308 can be between approximately 12.0 cm and 15.0 cm. In one example embodiment, the spacer length dimension 308 can be approximately 13.0 cm. In some embodiments, the spacer length dimension 308 can be the same regardless of the size or height of the exercise hurdle 100. For example, the short hurdle 204 and the tall hurdle 702 can both have a spacer support 302 of the same length. In other embodiments, the spacer length dimension 308 can vary depending on the size or height of the exercise hurdle 100.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrates certain steps of a method of collapsing or folding an embodiment of the collapsible exercise hurdle 100. The method can include aligning the first hurdle panel 102 with the second hurdle panel 104. Aligning the first hurdle panel 102 with the second hurdle panel 104 can involve folding the first hurdle panel 102 on to the second hurdle panel 104 and ensuring the first hurdle panel 102 substantially overlaps with the second hurdle panel 104. For example, aligning the first hurdle panel 102 with the second hurdle panel 104 can involve aligning the first hurdle panel 102 with the second hurdle panel 104 in such a way that a panel frame within the first hurdle panel 102 overlaps or is aligned with another panel frame within the second hurdle panel 104.

Prior to or after this step, the user can also detach the first fastener component 122 of the hurdle spacer 106 from the second fastener component 124 on the first hurdle panel 102. For example, when the first fastener component 122 and the second fastener component 124 are complementary Velcro® components, the user can separate the two Velcro® components from one another such that the terminal end of the hurdle spacer 106 hangs free.

The method can also involve the user holding on to a first stacked or overlapping set of corners 400 with one hand and the same user holding on to a second stacked or overlapping set of corners 402 with another hand. The first stacked or overlapped set of corners 400 can include one corner of the first hurdle panel 102 and one corner of the second hurdle panel 104. The second stacked or overlapped set of corners 402 can be corners which are located substantially diagonal to the first overlapped set of corners 400. In other embodiments, the method can involve the user holding on to a first stacked or overlapping rounded end of the hurdle panels with one hand and holding on to a second stacked or overlapping rounded end of the hurdle panels with another hand.

The method can further involve the user twisting the first overlapped set of corners 400 or ends in a first rotational direction 404. The method can also involve the user simultaneously holding steady or twisting the second overlapped set of corners 402 or ends in a second rotational direction 406. For example, either the first rotational direction 404 or the second rotational direction 406 can be a clockwise rotational direction or a counterclockwise rotational direction. In some embodiments, the first rotational direction 404 can be a rotation or twisting motion away from the body of the user and the second rotational direction 406 can be a rotation or twisting motion toward the body of the user. By twisting the first overlapped set of corners 400 or ends and the second overlapped set of corners 402 or ends, the user can cause panel frames within the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 to twist or coil.

The method can further involve bringing the first overlapped set of corners 400 or ends toward the second overlapped set of corners 402 or ends after the twisting or rotational step. At this point, the first panel frame within the first panel sleeve 108 and the second panel frame within the second panel sleeve 112 can automatically twist or loop into a plurality of coiled rings 408 as shown in FIG. 4D. For example, when the exercise hurdle 100 is a medium-sized hurdle, the first panel frame and the second panel frame can be twisted or collapsed into six overlapping coiled rings 408.

FIGS. 4E and 4F are black-and-white images of the exercise hurdle 100 in a collapsed configuration 410. As shown in FIGS. 4E and 4F, the exercise hurdle 100 can be collapsed into a substantially circular collapsed configuration 410 comprising a plurality of stacked circular panels. For example, FIGS. 4E and 4F can be opposite sides of the exercise hurdle 100 in the collapsed configuration 410. As depicted in FIGS. 4E and 4F, the size of the exercise hurdle 100 can be significantly reduced when folded or otherwise contorted into the collapsed configuration 410. One benefit of being able to collapse the exercise hurdle 100 into such a compact collapsed configuration 410 is the ease with which users (such as personal trainers or athletes) can transport and store such equipment. For example, multiple instances of the exercise hurdle 100 can be stored or carried in a small gym or exercise bag.

FIG. 4G illustrates the collapsible exercise hurdle 100 self-expanding from the collapsed configuration 410 into an expanded configuration 412. The expanded configuration 412 can be an unconstrained configuration where neither the first panel frame nor the second panel frame is twisted or contorted. The exercise hurdle 100 can spontaneously self-expand into the expanded configuration 412 when a user ceases from compressing or holding together the plurality of coiled rings 408. For example, a user can allow the exercise hurdle 100 to self-expand by only holding on to one such coil ring 408 and releasing the other coil rings 408. The exercise hurdle 100 can self-expand due to the forces stored in the coiled first panel frame and the coiled second panel frame when the exercise hurdle 100 is in the collapsed configuration 410. The exercise hurdle 100 self-expands when this stored energy is released.

FIG. 5A is a black-and-white image of an embodiment of a hurdle panel with a part of a panel frame 500 exposed. The panel frame 500 (including any of the first panel frame, the second panel frame, or a combination thereof) can be an elongate strip formed into a closed loop by connecting the ends of the elongate strip. As shown in FIG. 5B, the elongate strip can be formed into an oval-shaped loop or a stadium-shaped loop by a frame connector 502. In some embodiments, the elongate strip can be one continuous elongate metallic strip such as a strip of stainless steel. In other embodiments, the elongate metallic strip can be an elongate polymeric strip such as a shape-memory plastic strip. In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the panel frame 500 can be made of one or more flexible metallic wires. For example, the panel frame 500 can be made of or comprise one or more flexible steel wires. The flexible steel wire can be a high-carbon steel wire such as 60# steel wire. In other embodiments, the flexible metallic wire can include electro galvanized wire, hot dipped galvanized steel wire, galvanized iron wire, galvanized steel wire, or a combination thereof. The flexible metallic wire can have a wire gauge or diameter of between 0.55 mm and 3.00 mm. In addition, the flexible metallic wire can have a tensile strength of between 300 N/mm to 500 N/mm.

FIG. 5B illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of the panel frame 500. As shown in FIG. 5B, the panel frame 500 can be made of an elongate strip formed into a closed stadium-shaped loop. The elongate strip can be closed by coupling or connecting the two terminal ends of the elongate strip together with a frame connector 502. In some embodiments, the elongate strip forming the panel frame 500 can have an end-to-end length of between approximately 150 cm to 250 cm. For example, the elongate strip forming the panel frame 500 for the medium-sized hurdle (see medium-sized hurdle 700 of FIG. 7B) can be between approximately 185 cm and 195 cm.

FIG. 5C is a black-and-white image of a close up of a segment of an example panel frame 500 having a frame connector 502. As shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the frame connector 502 can be significantly shorter (lengthwise) than the end-to-end length of the elongate strip serving as the panel frame 500. For example, the frame connector 502 can have a frame connector length of between approximately 2.0 cm and 3.0 cm. More specifically, the frame connector 502 can have a frame connector length of approximately 2.30 cm.

FIG. 5D illustrates a close up of an embodiment of a frame connector 502 coupled to one end of an elongate strip. In some embodiments, the frame connector 502 can be a crimp sleeve having a crimp sleeve lumen. For example, the frame connector 502 can be a metallic crimp sleeve. The two terminal ends of the elongate strip can fit within the crimp sleeve lumen and can be held within the crimp sleeve by an interference fit. The crimp sleeve can allow the elongate strip to form into a closed loop to serve as the panel frame 500. In other embodiments, the frame connector 502 can be polymeric sleeve or the frame connector 502 can affix the two terminal ends to either the frame connector 502 or each other with adhesives or wire ties.

FIG. 5D also illustrates that the elongate strip forming the handle frame 500 can have a frame thickness 504. For example, the frame thickness 504 can be a thickness of the single metallic elongate strip serving as the handle frame 500. In some embodiments, the frame thickness 504 can be between approximately 0.90 mm and 1.10 mm. For example, the frame thickness 504 can be approximately 1.00 mm.

FIG. 5E illustrates a side elevational view of a panel frame 500. As depicted in FIG. 5E, the panel frame 500 can have a frame width 506. The frame width 506 can be the width of the elongate strip forming the handle frame 500. In some embodiments, the frame width 506 can be between approximately 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm. For example, the frame width 506 can be approximately 2.5 mm.

The panel frame 500 can have a frame width-to-thickness ratio of between approximately 2.0 to 3.0. In some example embodiments, the panel frame 500 can have a width-to-thickness ratio of between approximately 2.3 and 2.6. More specifically, the panel frame 500 can have a width-to-thickness ratio of about 2.5. One unexpected advantage of this width-to-thickness ratio of the panel frame 500 within each of the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 is the ease with which the first hurdle panel 102 and the second hurdle panel 104 can be folded or contorted into the collapsed configuration 410 while also maintaining the ability to self-expand back into the expanded configuration 412. In some embodiments, the panel frame 500 can have the same width-to-thickness ratio regardless of the size or height of the exercise hurdle 100.

FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment of an exercise mat 600 compatible for use with the collapsible exercise hurdle 100. In one embodiment, the exercise mat 600 can be made of a polymeric material or a composite material. For example, the exercise mat 600 can be made of or comprise thermoplastic rubber (TPR), nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the exercise mat 600 can be made of or comprise an organic material such as cotton, hemp, wool, or a combination thereof. In these embodiments, the exercise mat 600 can include a rubber or thermoplastic layer attached to a bottom surface of the exercise mat 600.

As seen in FIG. 6A, the exercise mat 600 can have a hurdle contacting surface 602 and a non-hurdle contacting surface. The hurdle contacting surface 602 can have a plurality of metallic placement markers 604 affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602. In one embodiment, the plurality of metallic placement markers 604 can be affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602 by adhesives. In other embodiments, the plurality of metallic placement markers 604 can be embedded within one or more inner layers of the exercise mat 600 or sewn onto the hurdle contacting surface 602.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the exercise mat 600 can comprise three metallic placement markers 604 affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602. In this embodiment, three exercise hurdles 100 can be releasably secured to the exercise mat 600 by contacting the respective magnets 306 of the three exercise hurdles 100 with the three metallic placement markers 604.

In one embodiment, the metallic placement markers 604 can be metal discs or coins having a diameter between 1.00 cm and 10.0 cm. In other embodiments, the metallic placement markers 604 can be any type of ferromagnetic metal piece capable of being affixed to or embedded in the exercise mat 600. For example, the metallic placement markers 604 can be a ferromagnetic piece of metal shaped as a rectangle, an annulus, a triangle, a trapezoid, an oval, a multi-sided polygon, or any combination thereof. In these other embodiments, the magnets 306 of the exercise hurdle 100 can be shaped or sized similar to or different from the metallic placement markers 604.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the hurdle contacting surface 602 can comprise one or more longitudinal dividing lines 606 and one or more lateral dividing lines 608. The longitudinal dividing lines 606 and the lateral dividing lines 608 can be painted or printed, such as silk screen printed, on the hurdle contacting surface 602. The longitudinal dividing lines 606 and the lateral dividing lines 608 can divide the hurdle contacting surface 602 into multiple quadrants or sections. Each such quadrant or section can also comprise a painted or printed marking 610 such as a painted or printed number, letter, or character to identify the quadrant or section. The painted or printed longitudinal dividing lines 606, lateral dividing lines 608, and markings 610 can be used as guidance lines or markers for various exercises or workouts involving the exercise mat 600.

The non-hurdle contacting surface of the exercise mat 600 can also be used for traditional floor or flexibility exercises such as yoga, planks, pushups, sit-ups, crunches, ab rolls, or a variety of stretching exercises. Thus, one benefit or advantage of the exercise mat 600 is the ability to use both sides or surfaces of the exercise mat 600 such that the hurdle contacting surface 602 of the exercise mat 600 can be used for exercises or workouts involving the exercise hurdle 100 and the opposite side of the exercise mat 600 can be used for traditional floor exercises or workouts.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the exercise mat 600 can be substantially rectangular-shaped. In other embodiments, the exercise mat 600 can be substantially circular-shaped, oval-shaped, square-shaped, triangular-shaped, trapezoid-shaped, rhombus-shaped, diamond-shaped, or any combination thereof.

In some variations, the exercise mat 600 can have a length dimension between 100.0 cm and 250.0 cm. In these and other variations, the exercise mat 600 can have a width dimension between 50.0 cm and 100.0 cm. The exercise mat 600 can be curled into a cylindrical roll or folded.

FIG. 6B is a black-and-white image of the exercise mat 600 compatible for use with the exercise hurdle 100. As seen in FIG. 6B, the exercise mat 600 can have a hurdle contacting surface 602. A plurality of metallic placement markers 604 can be affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602. For example, the plurality of metallic placement markers 604 can be affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602 by adhesives.

The exercise mat 600 can have one or more longitudinal dividing lines 606, one or more lateral dividing lines 608, and markings 610 painted or screen printed on the hurdle contacting surface 602. The longitudinal dividing lines 606 and lateral dividing lines 608 can divide the hurdle contacting surface 602 into multiple quadrants or sections.

FIG. 6C is a black-and-white image of a close-up of an embodiment of the metallic placement marker 604 affixed to a surface of the exercise mat 600. As shown in FIG. 6C, the metallic placement marker 604 can be metal coins or discs affixed to the hurdle contacting surface 602 of the exercise mat 600 by adhesives. In other embodiments not shown in FIG. 6C but contemplated by this disclosure, the metallic placement markers 604 can be affixed to the surface of the exercise mat 600 by hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, clips, stitches, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of the exercise hurdle 100 in a hurdle configuration 200 detachably coupled to the exercise mat 600. A user can releasably secure the exercise hurdle 100 to the exercise mat 600 by placing the magnet 306 of the hurdle spacer 106 on the metallic placement marker 604.

Although FIG. 7A shows one exercise hurdle 100 placed over one metallic placement marker 604, it is contemplated by this disclosure that one exercise hurdle 100 can comprise multiple magnets 306 and such magnets 306 can be magnetically secured to multiple metallic placement markers 604 affixed to the same exercise mat 600.

FIG. 7B illustrates a plurality of exercise hurdles 100 of various heights detachably coupled to the exercise mat 600. As depicted in FIG. 7B, each of a short hurdle 204, a medium-height exercise hurdle 700, and a tall hurdle 702 can be magnetically secured to the same exercise mat 600. In this case, each of the three exercise hurdles 100 can be secured to one of the several metallic placement markers 604 positioned along a length of the exercise mat 600 via a magnet 306 embedded in the hurdle spacer 106 of each of the exercise hurdles 100.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example workout undertaken by a user involving the exercise mat 600 and the collapsible exercise hurdle 100. As shown in FIG. 8, the user can perform lateral shuffle jumps over the exercise hurdle 100 while the exercise hurdle 100 is secured to the exercise mat 600. One benefit or advantage of such an exercise system is the cushioning and non-slip surface provided by the exercise mat 600 coupled with the attachment of the exercise hurdle 100 to the hurdle contacting surface 602 via the metallic placement markers 604 and the magnets 306. When used in this manner, the exercise hurdle 100 is less likely to topple over or inadvertently shift or move during the course of a workout.

Although not shown in the figures, it is contemplated by this disclosure that a user can perform any variety of hurdle-based plyometric or cardio exercises using the combination mat and hurdle system disclosed herein. For example, the user can perform ski jumps, one-legged hurdle hops, double-legged hurdle hops, broad jumps, rope jumps, or any combination thereof.

A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. Elements of systems, devices, apparatus, and methods shown with any embodiment are exemplary for the specific embodiment and can be used in combination or otherwise on other embodiments within this disclosure. For example, the steps of any methods depicted in the figures or described in this disclosure do not require the particular order or sequential order shown or described to achieve the desired results. In addition, other steps operations may be provided, or steps or operations may be eliminated or omitted from the described methods or processes to achieve the desired results. Moreover, any components or parts of any apparatus or systems described in this disclosure or depicted in the figures may be removed, eliminated, or omitted to achieve the desired results. In addition, certain components or parts of the systems, devices, or apparatus shown or described herein have been omitted for the sake of succinctness and clarity.

Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims and the specification and/or drawings may be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

1. An exercise hurdle, comprising:

a first hurdle panel comprising a first panel frame;

a second hurdle panel comprising a second panel frame, wherein the second hurdle panel is coupled to the first hurdle panel; and

a hurdle spacer coupled to the second hurdle panel, wherein the exercise hurdle has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, wherein the first panel frame and the second panel frame are twisted into overlapping coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration, and wherein the first hurdle panel further comprises a first fabric sleeve and the first panel frame is within the first fabric sleeve, and wherein the second hurdle panel further comprises a second fabric sleeve and the second panel frame is within the second fabric sleeve.

2. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first panel frame and the second panel frame has a frame width-to-thickness ratio of between about 2.0 to 3.0.

3. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first fabric sleeve and the second fabric sleeve comprises nylon.

4. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the first hurdle panel is coupled to the second hurdle panel by stitches connecting the first fabric sleeve and the second fabric sleeve.

5. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the first hurdle panel further comprises a first mesh panel portion and the second hurdle panel further comprises a second mesh panel portion.

6. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the hurdle spacer comprises a first fastener component and the first hurdle panel comprises a second fastener component complementary to the first fastener component.

7. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first panel frame and the second panel frame is made of an elongate strip of metal formed into a closed-loop.

8. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the hurdle spacer comprises a magnet.

9. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the first panel frame and the second panel frame are twisted into at least three coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration.

10. The exercise hurdle of claim 1, wherein the exercise hurdle is self-expandable from the collapsed configuration into the expanded configuration.

11. An exercise system, comprising:

an exercise hurdle, comprising: a first hurdle panel comprising a first panel frame, a second hurdle panel comprising a second panel frame, wherein the second hurdle panel is coupled to the first hurdle panel, and a hurdle spacer comprising a magnet, wherein the hurdle spacer is coupled to the second hurdle panel, wherein the exercise hurdle has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, wherein the first panel frame and the second panel frame are twisted into overlapping coiled rings when the exercise hurdle is in the collapsed configuration; and

an exercise mat comprising a plurality of metallic placement markers affixed to the exercise mat, wherein the magnet of the hurdle spacer is configured to releasably couple to at least one of the plurality of metallic placement markers.

12. The exercise system of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first panel frame and the second panel frame has a frame width-to-thickness ratio of between about 2.0 to 3.0.

13. The exercise system of claim 11, wherein the first hurdle panel further comprises a first fabric sleeve and the first panel frame is within the first fabric sleeve, and wherein the second hurdle panel further comprises a second fabric sleeve and the second panel frame is within the second fabric sleeve.

14. The exercise system of claim 13, wherein at least one of the first fabric sleeve and the second fabric sleeve comprises nylon.

15. The exercise system of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first panel frame and the second panel frame is made of an elongate strip of metal formed into a closed-loop.

16. The exercise system of claim 11, wherein the plurality of metallic placement markers are affixed to the exercise mat via adhesives.

17. The exercise system of claim 11, wherein the exercise mat comprises thermoplastic rubber, nitrile butadiene rubber, polyvinyl chloride, or a combination thereof.

18. A method of collapsing a hurdle comprising:

aligning a first hurdle panel of the hurdle with a second hurdle panel of the hurdle such that a first panel frame of the first hurdle panel overlaps a second panel frame of the second hurdle panel, wherein the first hurdle panel is coupled to the second hurdle panel;

twisting a first overlapped set of corners of the first hurdle panel and the second hurdle panel in a first rotational direction; and

simultaneously holding steady or twisting a second overlapped set of corners of the first hurdle panel and the second hurdle panel in a second rotational direction, wherein the second overlapped set of corners is substantially diagonal to the first overlapped set of corners, and wherein the first panel frame and the second panel frame are collapsible into a plurality of overlapping coiled rings.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising bringing the first overlapped set of corners toward the second overlapped set of corners to collapse the first panel frame and the second panel frame into the plurality of overlapping coiled rings.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising detaching a hurdle spacer coupled to the second hurdle panel from the first hurdle panel prior to aligning the first hurdle panel with the second hurdle panel.