Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the instantaneous power generated by a leg extension, which includes a seat provided above a drive system unit on which a subject is seated. A slide rail extends forwardly from the drive system unit, and a foot plate slides along the slide rail in forward and backward directions. A rope connected to the foot plate is provided in the drive system unit in order to be paid out in response to the forward sliding movement of the foot plate. This apparatus also includes a transmission device, which rotates in response to the rope paying-out and a powder brake, which is rotated by the transmission device. A foot load sensor is also mounted on the foot plate in order to detect the foot load developed when the subject extends his/her legs, and a rotation frequency sensor is provided at a predetermined position within the drive system unit in order to detect the rotation frequency of the powder brake.
Abstract: An exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing, stair hopping and downhill skiing is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base with a vertical support extending upwardly therefrom and a handrail supported by the vertical support. Two foot pedals are pivotally connected to the vertical support. Each foot pedal has a roller chain connected at one end to the foot pedal. A spring is connected between the other end of each roller chain and the foot pedal at a position spaced from the point of connection of the roller chain. The two roller chains are looped over drive chain sprockets which are rotatably mounted by clutch bearings on a shaft in spaced apart relation. The drive shaft extends through and is rigidly secured to a friction drum. A chord is looped around the drum between a spring bias and a length adjustable rod thereby forming a variable resistance mechanism. Depressing the foot pedals results in the clutch bearings engaging the shaft thereby rotating the friction drum.
Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for use in enhancing explosive leg power. Included is a supporting device for supporting an object which is selected to maximally motivate the individual seeking explosive leg power. Included is a device for allowing the individual to displace the object and for retracting the object upon release of the object.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 25, 1990
Date of Patent:
May 11, 1993
Assignee:
Instructional Fitness Programs, Inc.
Inventors:
Barry S. Brown, Paul D. Reagan, Rosalie DiBrezzo, Inza L. Fort, Dean R. Gorman, Allen H. Hanna
Abstract: A multiple exercise unit capable of providing a user with a wide range of strength and conditioning exercises. The exercise unit provides resistance through an isokinetic device which utilizes a clutch mechanism. Lines extend out of the isokinetic device and attach to various exercise elements such that a variety of upper and lower body strength exercises may be performed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 12, 1991
Date of Patent:
March 23, 1993
Assignee:
NordicTrack, Inc.
Inventors:
Timothy S. Engel, Frank W. Campbell, Stephen S. Peterson, Craig A. Loubert, Edward R. Holden
Abstract: The apparatus comprises a base and a pull bar. A cord is attached to the ends of the pull bar, and the cord is guided over a floating pulley. The pulley is in turn connected to an energy dissipating device so that they pull on the cord lengths at the ends of the bar.
Abstract: A multipurpose exercise apparatus may be assembled into a plurality of configurations and positioned in a plurality of orientations to perform a variety of exercises, including cross-country-skiing-type exercises and rowing-type exercises.