Including External Conduit Structure Patents (Class 482/113)
  • Patent number: 11794057
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises a frame with a chamber having a piston slidable between first and second cavity ends of the chamber, and a cable assembly for pulling the piston by an applied force towards the second cavity end to cause a vacuum in the chamber to exert a resistance force on the cable assembly. A cable subassembly extends between first and second parts of the cable assembly, comprising a pulley wheel attached to the first part and a cable extending around the pulley wheel having first and second cable ends. Stoppers on the cable ends engage a bearing member to restrain movement of at least the first cable end when the second cable end is pulled relative to the pulley wheel. Releasable connector means connect the cable ends to the second part to allow a user to choose a magnitude of the resistance force opposing the applied force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventors: Minh Loi Thach, John Hoogland
  • Patent number: 11298581
    Abstract: A therapeutic walking trainer with a foot receiving portion for receiving at least a sub-region the forefoot of a user or for forming a connection with a toe of a shoe, having at least one main carrier which can be displaced in and/or counter to an adjustment direction, and with an actively and/or passively operable adjustment unit for the relative adjustment, oriented essentially perpendicular to the adjustment direction, of the foot receiving portion relative to the at least one main carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: medica Medizintechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Otto Hoebel
  • Patent number: 11185734
    Abstract: A Twisting Stepper Apparatus comprising a Frame Structure Member, a Foot Engagement Member, and an optional Resistance Member. The Frame Structure Member is comprised basically of a Base Frame Member and a Guide Platform Member. The Foot Engagement Member is pivotally mounted to the Base Frame Member and mainly comprises two Foot Support Members pivotally coupled together by a lever assembly such that they move in reciprocating upward and downward motions. The lever assembly is a dual lever assembly which keeps the Foot Support Member in a relatively horizontal positon while moving upward and downward. The Foot Support Members operatively engage the Guide Platform Member, with the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members create the twisting movement of the Foot Engagement Member, and vice versa. The optional Resistance Member provides resistance in the twisting motion of the Foot Engagement Member, and thus also in the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
  • Patent number: 11058908
    Abstract: A weight training apparatus using hydraulics or pneumatics for applying positive and negative resistance closer to a user's maximum capacity throughout a lift is provided. The weight training apparatus allows for weight training without weights. The weight training apparatus may provide a more effective and safer mechanism for training than conventional techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Inventor: David McCann
  • Patent number: 10960259
    Abstract: A hip-stretching device includes a mat having an upper surface. The mat is configured for placement on a support surface to support a back of a subject lying in a supine position on the upper surface of the mat. The hip-stretching device includes first and second pockets associated with the mat. The first and second pockets each have an opening configured to removably receive an inflatable bladder for selectively placing the inflatable bladder in one of the first and second pockets. The first and second pockets each position an inflatable bladder received therein under a hip area of the subject when the subject is lying in the supine position on the upper surface of the mat. Inflation of the inflatable bladder imparts a force to the hip area of the subject to elevate the hip area to provide a hip flexor stretch to the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: Timothy J. Huntington
  • Patent number: 10897990
    Abstract: A support stand for an electronic device including a flat base, a first post having a first end secured to the base, a second post having a first end pivotably connected to a second end of the first post, a platform pivotably connected to a second end of the second post, a first arm pivotably attached to the first post, the first arm having a first telescopic section extending away from the first post, a second arm pivotably attached to the first post, a second arm having a second telescopic section extending away from the first post, a first adjustable fastening device located at a distal end of the first telescopic section; a second adjustable fastening device located at a distal end of the second telescopic section, and a locking device to adjust the height of the second post with regards to the first post, the locking device including a clamp assembly with an adjusting knot to lock the height of the second post, a first articulation, and a second articulation to provide a right to left rotational motion a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Inventor: Carlos Alberto Sierra Murillo
  • Patent number: 10850152
    Abstract: The power squat exercise machine is an exercise machine for performing a squat exercise in a safe and controlled manner by providing shoulder pads with a specific angle which allows for the optimal comfort, posture, safety, and transfer of strength to a free weight squat. Support members are provided for more stability to the machine. It provides a dual safety stopping mechanism. The stopping mechanism provides controlled movement by the user and a safe entry and exit from the squat exercise machine. An adjustable safety locking mechanism is also provided which allows the user to control the movement range of the resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Inventor: Sean Kelly
  • Patent number: 10843035
    Abstract: An apparatus and method may exercise muscles of a body part, especially the neck, waist, torso, legs, and glutes from any angle with variable resistance while taking up minimal floor space. The apparatus may improve the ability of athletes, including football players and wrestlers, to better prepare for contact from any angle while engaged in their sport. The apparatus may include a ring having a guide track therein. Another inner ring may also be provided in different sizes and shapes to accommodate a variety of users. A car may be connected to a source of resistance ride freely along the guide track. The source of resistance may be other gym equipment including a bungee cord, a cable cross over machine, springs, and the like. As the user freely exercises by moving the body part, the car may adapt to the user's position to facilitate a full range of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: MISSION COMPETITION FITNESS EQUIPMENT
    Inventor: Michael Jolly
  • Patent number: 10744362
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a mobile base and an upright support extending upwards from the mobile base. An upper support assembly extends forward from an upper portion of the upright support and an exercise device is suspended from the upper support assembly at a location spaced forward from the upright support. The exercise machine may include a compact and safe counterbalancing gas spring mechanism that tends to move the exercise device away from the exerciser, and that requires a force to be applied to move an exercise device down towards the exerciser. The exercise machine may include an exercise device that is rotatable along a vertical axis, and may be coupled to an adjustable monitor for a wide range of uses. The exercise machine may be used by a exerciser lying supine, sitting in a chair or wheelchair, or standing in front of or adjacent the exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignees: United States Government as represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: Gary Goldish, Andrew Hansen, Eric Nickel, John Ferguson, Stuart Fairhurst
  • Patent number: 10661116
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing a back extension exercise comprising: a frame, a seat having a seating surface and a pelvic stabilization pad having a lower back engagement surface, an input arm assembly interconnected by a first interconnection to a first resistance mechanism, the input arm assembly including a manually graspable mechanism and being arranged on the apparatus such that the input arm assembly is pivotable beginning from a start motionless position along a path of travel toward the pelvic stabilization pad under resistance exerted by one or both of the resistance mechanisms, wherein the first resistance mechanism is adapted to increase resistance as the degree of pivoting of the input arm assembly increases along the path of travel away from the start motionless position rearwardly toward the pelvic stabilization pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Cybex International, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Mark Buontempo, Stephen Wendt
  • Patent number: 10603536
    Abstract: A vertical exercise device for triggering sympathetic and/or parasympathetic system responses comprising at least one foot support and a handlebar assembly. The foot support(s) may have a support surface configured to contact the entire ball of a user's foot during use, which may be inclined at an angle and substantially flat. The handlebar assembly may have at least an upper handle configuration and a lower handle configuration, and be adapted to keep a user's wrist within a safe range of motion during use. The positioning and orientation of foot support(s) and the handlebar assembly may each be independently adjustable in various aspects, such as horizontal and vertical displacement, rotation, tilt, angle, etc. The angle and depth of the support surface may each be independently adjustable. A horizontal vibration system may move one or more components of the device along the horizontal plane. Handlebars may have thumb plates to restrict grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Inventor: Douglas Brendle
  • Patent number: 10583319
    Abstract: A free weight bar stabilizer, to be used with a standard size bar and attached barbell plates. The stabilizer includes a beam pivotally attached to a frame at a pivot point so that it is angularly movable in an arc between a raised position and a lowered position, and a carriage attached to the beam so that it is linearly movable radially out from the pivot point between a retracted position and an extended position. The carriage includes spaced distal arms with attachment points for attaching the bar to support its opposing ends. The bar is thus freely movable within an envelope defined by the ranges of the simultaneous angular movement of the beam and the linear movement of the attachment points on the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Inventors: Morris R. Bear, Patrick A. Morris
  • Patent number: 10576323
    Abstract: A method of performing a sequential series of movements in order to improve neuromuscular control and function across multiple joints and muscles in an individual. The sequential series of movements are performed by the individual while balancing on at least one unstable surface. Various steps are repeated to create a pattern of sequential movements that create rotational multi-planar movements against resistance and allow selectively sequential stretching of at least one muscle or joint of the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Inventor: Frank A. Latella, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10518124
    Abstract: A Pivoting Stepper Apparatus comprising a Frame Structure Member, a Foot Engagement Member, and an optional Resistance Member. The Frame Structure Member is comprised basically of a Base Frame Member and a Guide Platform Member. The Foot Engagement Member is pivotally mounted to the Base Frame Member and mainly comprises two Foot Support Members pivotally coupled together by a lever assembly such that they move in reciprocating upward and downward motions. The lever assembly is a dual lever assembly which keeps the Foot Support Member in a relatively horizontal position while moving upward and downward. The Foot Support Members operatively engage the Guide Platform Member, with the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members create the pivoting movement of the Foot Engagement Member, and vice versa. The optional Resistance Member provides resistance in the pivoting motion of the Foot Engagement Member, and thus also in the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
  • Patent number: 10486015
    Abstract: An exercise machine comprises a tension generating device, a translatable arm mount coupled to the tension generating device, an arm coupled to the translatable arm mount, and a cable coupled to the tension generating device via the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Tonal Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Valente, Aly E. Orady
  • Patent number: 10434356
    Abstract: Training apparatuses configured to receive, and conform to, the back of a user's knee and provide varying resistance and tactile feedback to a user performing quadriceps exercises and methods for using such apparatuses are disclosed herein. A preferred embodiment of the training apparatuses for quad sets comprises a solid, deformable, resilient body that includes a non-skid base and a top surface with a recess configured to receive the back of a user's knee. The body of this embodiment is preferably made of open-cell polyurethane foam with a uniform density ranging between 1 lb/ft3 and 8 lbs/ft3, and more preferably between 1.5 lbs/ft3 and 4.5 lbs/ft3. The embodiment provides gradually increasing resistance to compression, e.g. tactile feedback to the user's knee, when the user increasingly pushes his/her knee down against the embodiment, and thus allows dynamic quad setting and strengthening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Inventor: Daniel Van Voorst
  • Patent number: 10328302
    Abstract: A rock climbing has a base placed flat on a bearing surface, a damping device mounted on the base, a pedal structure is connected to both sides of the damping device respectively and two rock climbing simulators upright fixed to the base. The two rock climbing simulators are mounted on both sides of the damping device respectively. Each rock climbing simulator is provided with a slide grip device, and each grip device is connected to a corresponding pedal structure. When the two pedal structures are trodden alternately, the corresponding grip devices reciprocate up and down, simulating the rock climbing action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Yung-Sung Yeh
  • Patent number: 10265565
    Abstract: An unweighting system includes a frame, a pair of front pulleys, a pair of rear pulleys, a first cable, and a second cable. The frame is configured to be attached to or placed at least partially around an exercise device and includes a front portion and a rear portion. The pair of front pulleys is coupled to the front portion. The pair of rear pulleys is coupled to the rear portion. A first cable passes through a first of the pair of front pulleys and through a first of the pair of rear pulleys. A second cable passes through a second of the pair of front pulleys and through a second of the pair of rear pulleys. The first and second cables are configured to couple with a user to unload a portion of the user's weight as the user exercises on the exercise device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: AlterG, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford T. Jue, Gregory P. Marecek
  • Patent number: 10166435
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing a back extension exercise comprising: a frame, a seat having a seating surface and a pelvic stabilization pad having a lower back engagement surface, an input arm assembly interconnected by a first interconnection to a first resistance mechanism, the input arm assembly including a manually graspable mechanism and being arranged on the apparatus such that the input arm assembly is pivotable beginning from a start motionless position along a path of travel toward the pelvic stabilization pad under resistance exerted by one or both of the resistance mechanisms, wherein the first resistance mechanism is adapted to increase resistance as the degree of pivoting of the input arm assembly increases along the path of travel away from the start motionless position rearwardly toward the pelvic stabilization pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Cybex International, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Mark Buontempo, Stephen Wendt
  • Patent number: 10130546
    Abstract: A robotic device for operation in association with an appendage of a user, wherein the appendage of the user has an endpoint, the robotic device including: a base; and a robotic arm attached to the base and having an endpoint, the robotic arm having at least two active degrees of freedom relative to the base and being configured so that when the base is appropriately positioned relative to a user, the reference frame of the robotic device is oriented generally similarly to the reference frame of the user and motions of the endpoint of the appendage of the user are mimicked by motions of the endpoint of the robotic arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Barrett Technology, LLC
    Inventors: William T. Townsend, David Wilkinson, Alexander Jenko, Julian Leland, Arvind Ananthanarayanan, James Patton
  • Patent number: 9895574
    Abstract: An exercising device for strengthening of abdominal muscles with a frame having a resistance mechanism, the device including an inclined bench (3) associated with the press arm (4) connected to the resistance mechanism (9) creating resistance force only in one direction, whereas the press arm (4) is pivotally mounted at one end and its other end is positioned above the inclined bench (3), and is provided with means (8) for pushing and/or holding by user's hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Inventor: Marian Gejdos
  • Patent number: 9884221
    Abstract: An exercise bench that allows elderly, obese, and physically challenged individuals to participate in the same exercise regimens as younger, more agile athletes is provided. The exercise bench of the current invention comprises cushioned side supports that stabilize the individual during reclining and during exercise. Due to the nature of the exercises performed in the prone position, an exercise bench is generally narrow in order to allow freedom of movement for the Individual's arms. The narrow bench can provide stability challenges for elderly and obese individuals which the side support cushions address by providing the required stability without interfering with the individual's range of arm motion for exercising. The present invention also includes mechanical means to assist the user in reclining to a prone position, and returning to an upright sitting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: HEALTHY U PERSONAL TRAINING, INC.
    Inventor: William Charles McJames, II
  • Patent number: 9868018
    Abstract: A multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine for that is movable into a plurality of different positions when unlocked and that is retained in a single secure position when locked. The multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine generally includes a tubular base having a lower end and an upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking device. The elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the unlocked state and is substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree
  • Patent number: 9855457
    Abstract: A pull-up fitness exercise machine includes a base, a cantilever, a cantilever aligning unit, a pulling and latching unit, an assisted pushing unit, a limit assembly and a support plate. At a low static position, the support plate is acted by the limit assembly and fixed to a bottom position of the base, such that only after a specific gravitational force is exerted onto the support plate, and the cantilever is pulled downward, the support plate is released from a locked status. In addition, a central column at the bottom of the base has an inverted hook member operating together with a circular ring installed at a corresponding position of the support plate to form a secondary safety device to prevent the support plate to have any unexpected lifting movement and ensure the safety of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 9764179
    Abstract: An exerciser, preferably in the form of a stepper with a fluid resistance system guides stepper treadles angularly downward and outward from the center of the stepper. According to an embodiment bellows that support treadles angle downward and outward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Tristar Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jorge Prats
  • Patent number: 9730627
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to muscle fatigue measuring devices that include a bottom stabilizing portion, a handle, a central extended portion, and a force measuring device. The central extended portion can be disposed between the bottom stabilizing portion and the handle. The force measuring device can be connected to the handle. The force measuring device can be adapted to measure a force applied to the handle. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to methods of measuring muscle fatigue and muscle fatigue measuring systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Inventor: Damian Andrisani
  • Patent number: 9724563
    Abstract: An exercise device consisting of two or more flexible elements originating from different locations and connected to a common handle capable of being moved in a variety of directions. Each element also connected to a resistance mechanism and a force measuring device whereby a user interface and microcomputer determine force and direction and displays same in a plethora of varieties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Schmidt Design, LLC
    Inventor: David H Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9724566
    Abstract: An apparatus and method concurrently present a plurality of visible tracings or a single continuous visible tracing that overlaps itself, each of the visible tracings being based upon movement taken by a member of an exercise device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventor: James S. Birrell
  • Patent number: 9717945
    Abstract: A multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine for that is movable into a plurality of different positions when unlocked and that is retained in a single secure position when locked. The multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine generally includes a tubular base having a lower end and an upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking device. The elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the unlocked state and is substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree
  • Patent number: 9649533
    Abstract: A muscular strength enhancing robot to be driven by an intention of a user and a method of driving the robot are disclosed. The robot includes an actuator attached to a portion of a body of the user and configured to be actuated by enhancing a muscular strength, an encoder connected to the actuator and configured to measure an actual velocity at which the actuator moves, a force or torque sensor configured to measure an intensity of a force to be applied, an admittance modeling module configured to calculate a target velocity using the intensity of the force, and a proportional integral derivative (PID) control module configured to control actuation of the actuator in proportion to a velocity difference between the target velocity and the actual velocity, control the actuation by a cumulative value of the velocity difference, and control the actuation by a difference between a previous and a current velocity difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Korea Polytechnic University Industry Academic Corporation Foundation
    Inventors: Eung-Hyuk Lee, Jee-Hwan Ryu, Su-Hong Eom, Seoung-Jun Lee
  • Patent number: 9638161
    Abstract: An energy concentration device includes a pneumatic cylinder that allows for contact with waving sea water of the nature to make a float device to drive a piston rod to achieve an effect of up and down piston movement so as to realize an effect of pressurization of air inside the pneumatic cylinder, whereby the air may achieve an effect of increase of pressurization level through multi-staged pressurization and an effect of accumulation by being stored in a high-pressure air storage device for the purposes of electrical power generation with the pressurized air and supplying pneumatic power required by other applications, such as automobiles, motorcycles, buses, and factories and also for supplying of pneumatic power to household devices, such as household appliances and pneumatically-operating doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Lin-Tu Chiu
  • Patent number: 9597545
    Abstract: An exercise machine handle system which provides a unique handle and rotatable handle hub configuration to aid in performing a variety of exercises. The exercise machine handle system generally includes one or more handle assemblies each having a mounting bracket adapted to be removably secured to an exercise machine and including an upwardly-extending mounting hub shaft. A handle hub having a pair of curved handles extending in opposite directions therefrom is rotatably securable around an upper end of the handle hub shaft into a variety of locked positions. A third curved handle extends from an upper end of the handle hub in a similarly rotatably securable position. By removably securing one or more handle assemblies to an exercise machine, a user can benefit from a wide range of exercises supported by the adjustable handle assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree, John C. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9586081
    Abstract: An exercise machine handle system which provides a unique handle and rotatable handle hub configuration to aid in performing a variety of exercises. The exercise machine handle system generally includes one or more handle assemblies each having a mounting bracket adapted to be removably secured to an exercise machine and including an upwardly-extending mounting hub shaft. A handle hub having a pair of curved handles extending in opposite directions therefrom is rotatably securable around an upper end of the handle hub shaft into a variety of locked positions. A third curved handle extends from an upper end of the handle hub in a similarly rotatably securable position. By removably securing one or more handle assemblies to an exercise machine, a user can benefit from a wide range of exercises supported by the adjustable handle assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree, John C. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9579536
    Abstract: A multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine for that is movable into a plurality of different positions when unlocked and that is retained in a single secure position when locked. The multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine generally includes a tubular base having a lower end and an upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking device. The elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the unlocked state and is substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree
  • Patent number: 9522299
    Abstract: A multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine for that is movable into a plurality of different positions when unlocked and that is retained in a single secure position when locked. The multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine generally includes a tubular base having a lower end and an upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking device. The elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the unlocked state and is substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: Lagree Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree
  • Patent number: 9511258
    Abstract: A weighted push-up exercise machine includes a lever arm having a proximate end coupled pivotally to a base. The lever arm is configured to provide a resistance against vertical movement of a distal end of the lever arm. In addition, the distal end of the lever arm is configured to receive a connector suspended from a belt or harness worn by a user. A pair of hand grips are disposed above the lever arm and the pair of hand grips are configured to be grasped by the user. The machine is configured for the user to use in a horizontal position by the user grasping the hand grips and performing push-up exercises against the resistance. The machine also includes an elevated platform that is adjustably positioned in height relative to the pair of hand grips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Inventor: Richard J. Hoole
  • Patent number: 9492702
    Abstract: A strength training apparatus comprises a frame and press arm that is connected to a resistance arm at a pivot point so that the press arm is pivotable with respect to the resistance arm and so that the press arm and resistance arm are pivotable together with respect to the frame. A locking device is configured to retain the press arm in first and second fixed angular pivot positions with respect to the resistance arm. A resistance device is configured to resist pivoting movement of the press arm together with the resistance arm with respect to the frame. A biasing device is configured to bias the press arm with respect to the resistance arm so as to remove any slop in the locking device that otherwise would be caused by gravity, and so that an initial movement of the press arm is resisted by the resistance device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Lee M. Atwood
  • Patent number: 9486660
    Abstract: A flat row exercise machine is disclosed. The machine includes a base structure, a pair of front and rear vertical frame members fixed to the base structure and extending upwardly therefrom, and a horizontal member fixed between the pair of rear vertical frame members. The machine also includes a pair of levers having upper ends coupled pivotally to the horizontal member and each lever having a lower end configured to hold at least one removable weight or a tension band, where the pair of levers are configured to move independently of each other. A pair of arms extend outwardly from the lower ends of the pair of levers, where each arm is configured to be raised by a user such that the upper ends of the pair of levers pivot in place as the user moves a distal end of the pair of arms in an up and down motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Inventor: Richard J. Hoole
  • Patent number: 9474924
    Abstract: An exercise machine handle system which provides a unique handle and rotatable handle hub configuration to aid in performing a variety of exercises. The exercise machine handle system generally includes one or more handle assemblies each having a mounting bracket adapted to be removably secured to an exercise machine and including an upwardly-extending mounting hub shaft. A handle hub having a pair of curved handles extending in opposite directions therefrom is rotatably securable around an upper end of the handle hub shaft into a variety of locked positions. A third curved handle extends from an upper end of the handle hub in a similarly rotatably securable position. By removably securing one or more handle assemblies to an exercise machine, a user can benefit from a wide range of exercises supported by the adjustable handle assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: SPX Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree, John C. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9457220
    Abstract: An exercise machine including an adjustable joint with a first part and a second part that are shaped to rotate with respect to each other such that when an orientation between the first part and the second part changes, a position of the user contact feature also changes. The machine also includes a locking mechanism that is positioned to secure the first part and the second part together. The locking mechanism being positioned to secure the first part and the second part in an axial locking direction and to release the first part from the second part in an axial release direction. When the first part and the second part are secured, at least two first part features are interlocked with at least two second part features simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Micheal L. Olson
  • Patent number: 9452075
    Abstract: This invention is an elastic mechanism that extends and retracts during motions of the knee so that it maintains tension in a generally rearward direction on the area of the head of the tibia throughout the range of motion of the knee. The structure is anchored to a stable superior part of the body, above a height of contour, by an attachment which can be a belt, girdle, garment, suspenders or a combination of these attachments. The elastic mechanism attaches inferiorly to a number of connection mechanisms which connect to both sides of a hinged rigid knee brace near the tibial head, below the hinges of the knee brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Inventor: Randy John Berg
  • Patent number: 9375599
    Abstract: An apparatus for lower back exercise has a support structure, a body support platform and a pendulum pivotably connected to the support structure below the body support platform for engaging the legs of a user. Actuators cause the pendulum to move upwardly or downwardly to either assist the movement of the legs of a user engaging the pendulum, or to resist motions of the pendulum initiated by the user. The body support platform may be tilted by an actuator to provide ease of mounting and dismounting the apparatus. Controls for the actuators are provided to allow a practitioner to monitor and adjust the assistance or resistance provided by the apparatus to the user. The apparatus thus avoids hyperextension of the back while providing strength conditioning with progressive intensity of work outs, especially for users injured or otherwise in poor condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Tee and Ell Weight Lifting and Exercise Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis J Simmons
  • Patent number: 9050487
    Abstract: In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates audio feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program. The processed data is stored on a removable computer storage medium that is insertable into a port of the cardio exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Inventors: Michael G. Lannon, Mary Obana, Joshua Roman
  • Patent number: 9017234
    Abstract: An upper body reciprocating exerciser includes a frame having a post. A cam is connected to the post and has a guide slot which is cooperated with a piston rod of a cylinder. An enclosed loop pipe is connected to outside of the cylinder and includes two sets of a check valve and an adjustable control valve. The loop pipe communicates with a space in the cylinder. The check valves and the adjustable control valves control fluid in the cylinder to adjust the resistance force when a user pulls a pull unit, so that the user's bones and muscles are exercised properly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Tzu-Yao Tai, Cheng-Yu Kuo
  • Publication number: 20130130871
    Abstract: A training device is disclosed for exercising the pubococcygeal or pelvic floor muscles, for example in the treatment of incontinence. The device includes a cylindrical, deformable probe for insertion into the vagina or rectum of a user. The probe is connected to a pressure transducer, which detects the pressure applied to the probe by contraction of the pelvic floor muscles and displays a-pressure indicator to the user to help direct the contraction of the appropriate muscles. The pressure indicator may take the form of a series of nested figures, such as curves or concentric semi-circles, that incrementally converge toward a common point as pressure on the probe increases. The nested figures incrementally retreat from the common point as pressure on the probe decreases. The training unit guides a user through an exercise routine by tracking the overall exercise time and the timing between flexing and relaxation cycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: SUNBEAM PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: William G. McCoy, Matthew W. Hoskins, Michael S. Wax
  • Patent number: 8419600
    Abstract: Resistance training exercise apparatus includes a vacuum load system. Movement of a user-engaged exercise member in a first exercise direction pulls a piston in a cylinder to create vacuum in a housing chamber, which vacuum provides load resistance resisting exercise movement of the user-engaged exercise member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Danowski
  • Patent number: 8360954
    Abstract: An apparatus for examining and curing urinary incontinence and exercising the pelvic floor muscles and vaginal muscles using bio-feedback including a controller main body, a probe, and a bio-feedback device. The probe includes: an insert frame extending in a longitudinal direction thereof; an insert expansion part surrounding adjacent to a front end of the insert frame and expandable therearound; an air supply path connected to the interior of the insert expansion part to supply air; a handle engaged with the insert frame; a fixing means for fixing the insert expansion part to the insert frame or the handle; a valve installed at the air supply path; and a PTC ceramic heater and a vibration motor installed at the insert frame. An elastic member includes a magnet, an insertion depth adjustment part, and leg support parts installed at the insertion depth adjustment part. The bio-feedback device includes a sound generating means, and an image display means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Apimeds, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyungil Kim
  • Publication number: 20120329615
    Abstract: A fitness device using air pressure of a cylinder as an exercise load. The fitness device includes an air cylinder in which air pressure is maintained according to an exercise load value; a position recognition sensor for generating a position recognition signal when a piston of the air cylinder approaches a set position of a load increase of a top or a bottom of a cylinder; a controller for generating a load increase signal for increasing exercise load according to the position recognition signal; and an electric pneumatic proportion control valve for maintaining air pressure value of the air cylinder according to the exercise load value set by the controller and for increasing the air pressure of the air cylinder by 10˜20% for a predetermined time by receiving the load increase signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: DONG SUNG INDUSTRY MACHINE CO., LTD
    Inventor: Haeryong JEONG
  • Patent number: 8182403
    Abstract: To improve the effect and the safety of Kaatsu training. A training system includes a tight fitting device which is intended to be placed around a compressed range of an arm or a leg and which has a pneumatic bag, and a training device adapted to control the compression pressure that is applied to a compressed range by the tight fitting device by means of supplying air to the pneumatic bag of the tight fitting device or removing the air from the pneumatic bag. The training device supplies the air to the pneumatic bag and removes the air from the pneumatic bag in such a manner that the compression pressure that is applied by the tight fitting device to the compressed range oscillates between an upper peak and a lower peak within a range lower than an appropriate pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Sato Sports Plaza Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Sato
  • Patent number: 8123663
    Abstract: The invention provides an exercise apparatus containing a compressible member, which provides physical instability and improves core muscle development in an exercising person. In addition, the invention provides an article of clothing containing a compressible member or material which provides physical instability to a person performing active or passive exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventors: Edward G. Fey, Michael R. D'Angelo