Abstract: One example embodiment includes a pulley for providing resistance in an exercise system. The pulley includes a wheel, where the wheel is configured to rotate about an axis, and includes a groove, where the groove is located along the circumference of the wheel. The pulley also includes a cable, where the cable makes contact with at least a portion of the groove. The pulley further includes a resistance adjustment, where the resistance adjustment is configured to change the force required to rotate the wheel about the axis.

Abstract: A housing (14) has a geometric periphery. A chamber is formed within the housing. A spring (26) is coupled within the chamber. The spring is fabricated of a composite material. The composite material includes a binder with axially aligned fibers. A handle (60) is provided exterior of the housing. A guide assembly (38) is coupled to the housing. A cord (52) passes through housing and around the guide assembly. The cord couples the handle and the spring.

Abstract: An exercise device for use with a support surface includes a first elongated member defining an elongated bore extending, a second elongated member defining an elongated bore extending, the first elongated member being removably secured to the second elongated member, and an attachment assembly configured to removable secure the first and second elongated members adjacent to the support surface. A user positions a portion of the user's body between the first and second elongated members and the support surface, thereby securing the portion of the user's body in a substantially stationary position.

Abstract: An athlete training apparatus includes a platform, a force redirecting device that is mounted on the platform, an elastic member, a first user coupler and a second user coupler. The elastic member has a first end and an opposite second end and is engaged with the force redirecting device. The first user coupler is coupled to the first end of the elastic member and is also configured to be worn by a first individual. The second user coupler is coupled to the second end of the elastic member and is configured to be worn by a second individual. When the first individual stands in the standing area and when the second individual applies a force to the elastic member, the force redirecting device redirects a portion of the force to the second user coupler so that a force having a downward vertical component is applied to the first individual.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a pivot frame rotatably mounted to a base support along a pivot axis, wherein a pivot brace forms a rotatable connection between the pivot frame and the base support. The pivot frame is formed with two pivot frame ends which are disposed at an angle with respect to a location of the pivot brace. A user position a portion of his body between the ends. The pivot frame includes a plurality of pulley sheaves or wheels operative to transmit energy from the user through one or more cables. One or more handles or grips, each grasped by the hand of a user, are connected to the cable, which extends in substantially opposite directions from the grip. Resistance means comprises a housing connected to the pivot frame operable to rotatably receive a spool to take-up the cable, and which imposes a resistance to the free rotation of the spool, the resistance imparted to the user for therapeutic benefit.

Abstract: A resistance adjustable rotational exerciser includes a body, two rotary members and an adjustment device. The body has two outer rings with a connection plate connected therebetween. The two rotary members are rotatably connected to the outer rings and each have a handle. The adjustment device has front and rear plates respectively connected to the front and rear sides of the connection plate. The front and rear plates have resistance strips. Springs are located between the connection plate and the front and rear plates. A knob is located at the front plate and connected to connection rods connected between the front and rear plates. The user holds the handles to operate the exerciser in different directions to exercise the muscles and joints. By operation of the knob, the distance between the front and rear plates is adjusted to obtain desired resistance.

Abstract: A portable neck exercising device comprising an adjustable frame that can be securely and removably positioned between two sides of a door frame, a set of pulleys attached to the frame, a head band, and flexible tensioning bands attached to the head band, threaded through the pulleys, and removably connected to the frame using various tensions, such that a user can variably exercise their neck muscles by moving their head, neck, and torso in a variety of directions.

Abstract: Systems, assemblies, and devices for mounting an exercise apparatus to a door. More particularly, an exercise system is mounted to opposing corners of a door and directed diagonally across a door. A bracket engages the door corner and is oriented to directed tension members of the exercise system at a diagonal across a front surface of the door. The bracket includes a door mount for coupling the bracket to four surfaces of the door. The bracket includes an exercise device mount adapted to couple to tension members, pulleys, or other exercise devices. The exercise device mount defines a mounting axis that is non-parallel and non-perpendicular relative to a top edge surface of the door.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an exercise device that is simultaneously mutually beneficial for exercising partners with one exercising by providing a continuously changing resistance and resistance-vector while simultaneously the other exercising by providing a continuously adapting (or altering) counteracting force and counteracting force-vector to the continuously changing resistance and resistance vector. In addition, the portable collaborative exercise device in accordance with one or more embodiments enables correct application of resistance between symmetrical set of muscles with unbalanced strengths, and enables immediate ceasing of an exercise routine if the resistance is incorrectly applied.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a first elastic material portion having a first face and a second face disposed opposite the first face, a second elastic material portion having a third face and a fourth face disposed opposite the third face, and a plurality of joining regions, wherein the second face of the first elastic material portion attaches to the third face of the second elastic material portion at each joining region. Each joining region is capable of simultaneous multidimensional stretching when subjected to or released from an applied load. An assembly of integrally connected exercise devices includes a first exercise device integrally connected to a second exercise device, wherein a joining region is capable of separation into two smaller joining regions when the first exercise device and the second exercise device are separated.

Abstract: The disclosed fitness equipment allows a user to target different muscle groups using tri-planar coordination of movement, which was previously difficult (if not impossible) to achieve using conventional suspension training equipment. This is done by providing a resistance between suspension training straps, namely, by mechanically coupling an elastic band between the suspension training straps.

Abstract: A pronged band connector is adapted for securing a flat elastic exercise resistance band to an adjacent structure. The exercise band has a length, width, and thickness. The exemplary band connector comprises a base and a plurality of spaced-apart elongated rigid prongs. The prongs extend substantially perpendicular to the base, and are adapted for receiving a portion of the exercise band between adjacent prongs. A length of each prong may be greater than the width of the exercise band.

Abstract: An anchor device for elastic exercise bands mountable on a vertical support member (e.g., a door) and includes a vertically oriented strap member and a plurality of horizontal strap members attached to a front section of the vertically oriented strap member in vertically spaced relationship to each other. At least two, transversely spaced-apart loop members for receiving an elastic exercise band therethrough are attached to at least one of the plurality of horizontal strap members. At least two, transversely spaced-apart ring members are attached to at least one of the plurality of horizontal strap members for receiving one or more elastic exercise bands.

Abstract: The present invention provides in some embodiments, a cover for an exercise roller. The cover can include an elongate tubular structure defining a generally cylindrical elongate lumen extending through the length of the elongate tubular structure. A wall of the cover can have an inner face surrounding the generally cylindrical elongate lumen, which is configured to surround an outer surface of the exercise roller. The outer face of the elongate tubular structure can have a textured surface, and the elongate tubular structure has a density configured for myofascial release. Additionally, the inner face of the wall and the outer face of the wall define a thickness of the cover for an exercise device. The invention can also include a method of using a progression of covers having different densities, thicknesses, and textures to provide myofascial release.

Abstract: An exercise device that includes a base member that includes an upper surface and a cushion seat portion extending downwardly therefrom and a handle cavity defined in and extending downwardly from the upper surface. The device also includes a cushion member attached to the cushion seat portion. The cushion seat portion has a generally convex shape. A handle portion secured to the base member and spanning the handle cavity, and at least a first binding member that is secured to the base member and is configured to secure a user's foot to the upper surface of the base member.

Abstract: An adjustable load mechanism for an exercise device, the adjustable load mechanism including: at least one load point for application of force by a user, and a first load source comprising a tension assembly including an elastic portion, wherein the tension assembly is connected directly or indirectly to the at least one load point, and whereby a force applied to the at least one load point is transferred along an effective path through the tension assembly, and an adjusting mechanism operable to adjust the tension of the tension assembly, so as to vary the load required on the at least one load point, wherein the adjusting mechanism is operable whilst a load is applied to the tension assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating passenger exercise may comprise one or more pedals provided arranged to be operated by a passenger of a vehicle and allow the passenger to exert pressure on the pedal, while occupying a passenger seat of the vehicle. A compression unit coupled to the at least one pedal to receive the exerted pressure on the at least one pedal. The compression unit may function in at least one of a passive mode or an active mode. The apparatus may further comprise one or more handles operable by a passenger of a vehicle to exercise, and configured to allow the passenger to pool the one more handles, while occupying a seat of the vehicle. A string may be coupled to the one or more handles, and may be applicable to receive a force resulting from pooling the handle. A pulley may be operable to receive the string.

Abstract: An infant muscle training apparatus includes an apparatus base, an apparatus frame carried by the apparatus base and at least one assistance harness carried by the apparatus frame. The assistance harness has at least one resilient or elastic assistance band carried by the apparatus frame and a flexible, U-shaped arm strap carried by the assistance band.

Abstract: A wearable harness system for exercise including an elastic waistband, a harness assembly, swivel strap assemblies, fixed strap assemblies and elastic bands. At least one elastic band is engaged to the loops of gloves and/or footwear. The elastic waistband adjusts around a user's body. The fixed strap and the swivel strap assemblies mount upon the lower and upper corners, respectively, of the harness assembly. Each swivel strap assembly comprises a base plate and an exterior plate with first and second edges disposed at predetermined angles. Between the base plate and the exterior plate is a strap assembly with a loop. A pin passes through the central holes of the base plate, the exterior plate and the strap assembly. Threads secure the base plate and the exterior plate to the harness assembly and the elastic band. The strap assemblies may rotate from a vertical to a horizontal position.

Abstract: An exercise device for exercising hand, wrist, arm, and upper body muscles having adjustable force resistance and a force setting indicator. The exercise device includes a housing, a first handle connected to one end of the housing, a second handle connected to the opposite end of the housing, an inner spring disposed inside the housing, and an outer spring disposed inside the housing. The outer spring is connected to the inner spring and encases the inner spring. An adjuster knob disposed on the second handle and coupled to the inner spring and configured to adjust a tension of the inner spring and compression of the outer spring.

Abstract: An exercise device for use in a doorway including resistance bands extending from slidable carriages is provided. The exercise device includes a pair of vertical rail members attachable to sides of a doorway. The vertical rail members are engageable with carriages such that the carriages are capable of being slid longitudinally along the vertical rail members. Resistance bands extend along the vertical rail members and extend out from the carriages. The tension in the resistance bands may be altered by manipulating the distance between the carriages. The resistance bands extending from the carriages are attachable at each end to an athletic accessory such as a hand grip, belt, or crossbar. A pull-up bar may also be attached to the exercise device, the pull-up bar capable of vibration for enhanced performance.

Abstract: A musculature training device is disclosed. The musculature training device includes an attaching member, a fixing-and-adjusting member coupled to the attaching member, and an elastic member connected to the fixing-and-adjusting member, wherein the fixing-and-adjusting member sets an initial length of the elastic member. When a user move his/her body or limbs to deform the elastic member and change the initial length of the elastic member, the elastic member generates a restoring force that provides a resistance needed for a musculature training around the user's joint. Therefore, the user can train himself anytime and anywhere. Moreover, the user is allowed to perform a single joint musculature training to avoid sport injury and improve training effectiveness.

Abstract: A portable exercise apparatus comprising one or more planar arm supports for supporting one or both of a user's forearms; strapping means for securing each arm support to the user's forearms; one or more elastomeric cords attachable between each planar arm support and one or more anchor points; and anchor means for securing each elastomeric cord to the anchor points. The apparatus may be used for pectoral exercises, core muscle exercises, and other exercises.

Abstract: A personal exerciser for head and neck muscle strengthening comprises at least one part, intended to be inserted in a user's mouth during exercising and another part intended to cover the area around the lips, mouth and chin to prevent wrinkle formation and choking during exercising. A multiple layered structure is used in the form of a deformable, pliable composition covered with durable, resilient, elastomeric material. This structure allows fitting the personal exerciser inside the mouth and around the lips, mouth and chin of each unique individual. Isomeric and isotonic exercising of the head and neck muscles are performed simultaneously utilizing the inherent resistance of the elastomeric material. A method of use of the personal exerciser for head and neck muscles is adaptable for use in speech therapy, smoking cessation therapy, obesity treatment and treatment of complications from cosmetic surgeries and procedures.

Abstract: A chair-like exercising apparatus comprises a back, a seat, front legs, rear legs, and resistance element(s) which provide a broad range of resistance force adjustable by the user for the back extension exercise. The chair back pivotally connects to the rear legs directly, and pivotally connects to the front legs or rear legs through the resistance element(s). The resistance element comprises a compress-coil-spring cylinders (or constant-force-spring devices) and the cylinder holders (or the device holders). The resistance level of the back extension exercise is adjusted by switching the interchangeable compress-coil-spring cylinders (or constant-force-spring devices) of appropriate loads inside the cylinder holders (or device holders). A user sits on the chair and sway backward to perform back extension exercise after selecting an appropriate resistance level based on his/her physical condition. The apparatus is simple, affordable and can be used as a regular chair in its locked position.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a resistance lever pivotably attached to the frame, a resistance engagement member moveably attached to the resistance lever, the resistance engagement member being positionable at a plurality of attachment points on the resistance lever, and a resistance element disposed adjacent to the resistance engagement member. The resistance element includes a deflection member having a first end and a second end, a first anchor attached to and positionally fixing the first end of the deflection member, and a second anchor attached to and positionally fixing the second end of the deflection member. When a force is input to the resistance lever, the resistance lever pivots about the pivot point and the resistance engagement member transversely engages the deflection member. The apparent resistance provided by the resistance element is adjusted by positionally adjusting the resistance engagement member along the attachment points relative to the anchors.

Abstract: A rehabilitation device for legs has a foot piece mounted on a set of track rails, the foot piece is movable through knee extension and flexion, as well as through an elastic band looped around the back. By moving the foot piece, users are able to redevelop and strengthen muscles in the lower leg. Accompanying the foot piece on the track is a slider. The slider measures the distance the user is able to move the foot piece through a plurality of numbered holes in line with the track.

Abstract: A core muscle exercising and resistance training device includes a weighted bar having opposed bar ends adapted to removably mount at least one weight or other force generating element. A pad element is removably and frictionally mounted on the bar, the pad element being constructed from a lightweight foam material having a density within a specific range. The pad has an outer surface with a radius of curvature substantially the same as a normal cervical curvature. In use, the outer pad surface is placed adjacent a user's cervical curve and the weighted bar, the additional isometric resistance generating elements and the pad element act in combination to apply a force upon the user's core cervical curve muscles for improving the user's cervical curve posture by gradually modifying the cervical curvature to conform with clinically desirable curvature.

Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame. The rail portions of the frame each have an upright outer wall, an integral downwardly slanted inner wall and a hidden outwardly open slot therein between the outer and inner walls. A foot bar support assembly movably carried by each of the outwardly open slots supports the foot bar. Each foot bar support assembly has an elongated slide plate movably supported within the slot, a hook plate fastened to the slide plate, and a foot bar support arm rotatably and slidably fastened to the hook plate. A pair of tubular risers each having an upper roller therein at the head end of the frame direct arm cord ends to a cord retraction assembly mounted on the carriage. The retraction assembly releases the cords by pivoting either one of the shoulder stops toward the foot end of the frame.

Abstract: The present invention describes a portable resistance band exercise system used for training muscles, which may be used in a multi-planar workout routine, allowing various muscle groups to be exercised simultaneously. The user attaches each of one or more body attachment fasteners to one or more resistance bands, which are in turn attached to attachment points on a board. The attachment points are arranged in a semi-circular orientation on the board. The board may be used horizontally or upright, to permit a variety of exercises to be performed. Said exercise system also employs an ankle strap which has bumpers to cushion the user's shin and a foot strap to prevent the ankle strap from sliding up the user's lower leg.

Abstract: A counterbalance device for weight training includes a brake unit and a control unit. The brake unit includes an outer cylinder, a resistant spring received in the outer cylinder, and a screw rod extending through the outer cylinder and the resistant spring. The screw rod is connected with a steel cable of a weight training apparatus. An adjusting member is coupled around the screw rod and movably threaded into the resistant spring. A gear is provided at a front end of the resistant spring. The control unit includes a transmission gear which can be driven by a motor and is engaged with the gear. When the motor is actuated, a position of the adjusting member relative to the resistant spring can be changed, so that a number of spring coils of the resistant spring for compressing are changed, therefore a counterbalance of the weight training apparatus can be adjusted.

Abstract: A table is slidably supported on a chassis which is tiltably supported on a base or support frame whose angle may be adjustable via a motorized tilt control device that allows the chassis and table to be tilted and the weight of the user made available to produce a load against which exercising can be carried out. Said weight may be increased by the addition of one or more elastic resistance bands at various geometric points of said slidable supported device and the fixed base on which it is mounted, and whose geometry serves to apply a pre-tension force to said band(s). By pre-tensioning the material, the resistance band then provides a more linear force to the end user.

Abstract: A portable exercise platform described herein has at least one platform section with at least one longitudinal resistance mechanism and at least one latitudinal resistance mechanism. Preferred embodiments include a split longitudinal resistance mechanism and an interwoven latitudinal resistance mechanism. The split longitudinal resistance mechanism includes first and second parts, each part being attached to at least one platform section and having a plurality of resistance bands. The interwoven latitudinal resistance mechanism includes first and second parts, each part being attached to at least one platform section and having a plurality of resistance bands. Preferred embodiments include retractable handgrips, each handgrip having an extendable-retractable strap, each of the plurality of resistance bands suitable for directly or indirectly (via a spreader attachment device) attaching to the extendable-retractable strap.

Abstract: A portable multipurpose whole body exercise device which can be used for general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic, and rehabilitative exercises as well as stretching and physical therapy and which includes storable accessories that can be withdrawn from storage within the device and subsequently secured to the main tubular portion of the apparatus. The storable accessories can be used for a variety of resistance, stretching, and strength training exercises.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provide an elastic resistance to a free-range of motion of a user. A cord running through a pulley and connected at either end to handles permits assisted resistance control (ARC) and a leverage advantage. In ARC, release by an anchor hand, still maintaining a load, may provide consistent or reduced force on the other, active, hand. One bodily member, such as a hand, may selectively halt and move as an “anchor” member, thereby simultaneously exercising itself and exerting control over another “active” bodily member operating in a “free range of motion.” Thereby, motion of the active hand may continue throughout a range desirable for a physical therapy regimen, a sporting activity, a work activity, or the like, without excessive stress or strain on joints due to a mismatch of position and load.

Abstract: A variably configured exercise device is provided. The exercise device can include a vertical support member having a longitudinal axis, a sliding member configured to move along the vertical support member in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, a pair of rails each having first and second end portions. The first end portion of each rail can be pivotally connected to the sliding member on the vertical support member. The exercise device can further include an actuation mechanism coupled to the sliding member where the actuation mechanism can be configured to selectively adjust the position of the sliding member relative to the vertical support member.

Abstract: An holistic exercise method for enhancing urine retention in a person having reduced urine retention and exercise belt therefore. The method includes: a) providing an elastic resistance exercise belt of a size sufficient to encircle a users abdominopelvic region; b) removably mounting the belt around the abdominopelvic region of the user; c) expanding the abdominopelvic region outward as far as possible by the user against the resistive force of the belt; and then d) pulling the abdominopelvic region back into the body as far as possible with the resistance belt elastically retained in a snug position against the exterior of the abdominopelvic region; e) repeating a cycle comprising the expanding step c) and the pulling step d) for a sufficient number of cycles per day for a sufficient number of days to enhance the urine retention of the person.

Abstract: A hinged vaginal strengthening device has three points of resistance along its length, which correspond with the three layers of pelvic musculature. The device is inserted into a vagina and compressed by the pelvic floor musculature, in accordance with various regimens to achieve goals such as decreasing vaginal gap or overcoming painful intercourse. The device is of various dimensions, thereby allowing a user to progress through multiple steps to achieve their goal of increasing or decreasing their vaginal space, as well as increasing muscle tone.

Abstract: A portable exercise device includes an elongated base sheet and at least one attachment mechanism secured to the elongated base sheet at preselected locations on one side of said base sheet. The at least one attachment mechanism has at least one apparatus to receive an appendage of a user of the device and to provide a mechanism by which to secure a variety of exercise accessories to the base sheet. A retention mechanism for selectively removably connecting the device to a door sufficiently secures the device to the door that it will permit vigorous repeated use of the device without causing the device to inadvertently separate from the door during use and will also permit rapid, facile removal of the device from the door.

Abstract: A resistance band physical training apparatus includes a wall station, and a pair of floor stations. The wall station is mounted to a vertical mounting surface, such as a wall, and the floor stations are mounted to a horizontal mounting surface, such as a floor. The wall and floor stations include rods and bars about which resistance bands can be arranged to facilitate the performance of a plurality of exercises.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the human body includes a substantially nonelastic strap segment having a first end and a second end, a strap housing connected to the strap segment first end with a mechanism to lock the strap at a desired length of extension from the housing, an elastic resistance band having a first end and a second end, with the elastic resistance band first end connected to the strap segment second end, and an anchor point releasably connected to the elastic resistance band second end. A user can grasp the strap housing either directly or by a handle or bar, adjust the length of the strap and elastic resistance band, and affix the anchor point to a cuff, loop, stirrup, or other article to perform stretching and strengthening exercises. Alternatively, the strap housing can itself be affixed to a glove, mat, bracket, or other article, and the anchor point grasped by or secured to the user to perform exercises.

Abstract: An athletic training apparatus to assist a coach training muscle coordination of a player. An adjustable, delayed resistance, burst release, extension coil operatively couples to a first cable harness and a second cable harness. The first cable harness detachably couples to a coach and feedbacks real-time physical movements of the coach to the player. The second cable harness detachably couples to a training muscle group of the player. The training muscle group receives feedback from the real-time physical movements of the coach including a first resistance level during one portion of the exercise routine and a second resistance level during a second portion of an exercise routine. During an exercise routine, movements of the player are substantially unaffected and unstrained by the athletic training apparatus.

Abstract: A joint drive type link mechanism provided with a link including a joint portion at an intermediary thereof, and a driving source for the joint portion, wherein a link member configuring the link is mounted with the driving source and electric components used for the control of the driving source, in which the link is prevented from being heated by the heat of the electric components is provided. The link member includes an interior space in which the electric components are arranged and has the driving source is arranged thereon with an air inlet connecting to the interior space and an exhaust outlet for exhausting the air passing through the interior space. Further, the interior space is provided with fans as well as a heat sink for cooling the air after air-cooling the electric components.

Abstract: An exercise chair for an exercise system. The exercise system is of a type that utilizes an exercise resistance cable apparatus of a type that includes an exercise resistance cable having a first end being connectable to an exercise chair, and; a handgrip connected to a second end of the exercise resistance cable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure of exercise cord, which includes at least one elastic cord having two ends of which at least one is provided with a grip. The grip has two ends at top side extending between which is a handhold and a base seat is provided at the side opposite to the handhold. The base seat forms three retainer seats that extend through a bottom of the base seat. Each of the retainer seats has an upper end forming a circumferential recess and including therein a clamp extending to middle of the retainer seat. Three anchoring plugs are each provided with a retention rim at an upper end thereof and forming a cord extension hole in a lower end and also including a coupling section formed on a side thereof. The three anchoring plugs are respectively receivable in the thee retainer seats.

Abstract: An improvement in foot and hand exercising devices featuring a depressible elongated device placeable in the palm of a hand or under the plantar region of a foot which can increase venous return in an aid to avoiding deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and resulting pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, and edema. The depressible device reduces chance of foot or hand injury and improves the comfort of the user. The device can also be used for stretching the plantar tendons and thereby reducing foot pain.

Abstract: A resistance training exercise device includes a stretchable cord having an internal cavity and a governor in the form of a limit band situated within that cavity and including first and second end segments. A retaining member attaches each of the end segments to the cord so as to impart stretching motion to the limit band when the cord is stretched during exercising. The retaining members provided at each end of the limit band each include a cup-shaped outer member and an inner, member having an outer peripheral surface. Each end segment of the limit band is positioned through an opening in the cup-shaped outer member and is secured to the inner member.

Abstract: An exercise device comprising at least one elastic tube, a connector engaged with the elastic tube, an enlarged element, a webbing interconnecting the enlarged element and the connector; and a handle comprising a yoke and a handgrip. The yoke defining at least one passage sized to receive the webbing and to prevent the passage therethrough of the enlarged element to releasably secure the handle to the elongate member. The elongate member may comprise a plurality of elastic tubes braided together. Each of the elastic tubes may have an enlarged end for engaging the connector. The exercise device further including a sheath disposed over the webbing extending between the connector and the enlarged element. Said one passage sized to receive the sheath and the webbing. Means for releasably securing the elongate member to the handle.

Abstract: A personal stretching device is used to move a user's torso toward a distal structure. The personal stretching device includes an elongated tensile member, a shiftable uptake, and a manually-powered drive mechanism. The shiftable uptake is attached to the elongated tensile member at a proximal location, with the uptake operable to move along the elongated tensile member to change an adjustable length dimension defined between the proximal location and the distal structure. The manually-powered drive mechanism is operable to drive the uptake and thereby move the uptake along the tensile member. The drive mechanism includes a driven element attached to the uptake and a pair of drive elements shiftably mounted relative to the uptake. Each of the drive elements is drivingly coupled to the driven element independent of the other of the drive elements so that the user can drive the uptake by powering either one of the drive elements and thereby change the adjustable length dimension.

Abstract: An exerciser including a movable body carriage mounted on an exerciser frame for movement along tracks provided by the frame. A resilient foot engaging assembly extends from the exerciser frame. The resilient foot engaging assembly is adapted to be engaged by the user's feet to absorb the energy of movement in a first direction and to provide the user with a bouncing movement, which the user may translate into a movement of the movable body carriage in the opposite direction. The resilient foot engaging assembly may be provided as an attachment and retrofitted to existing exercisers. The resilient foot engaging assembly includes a unit mounting frame assembly and an independent usable exercising unit, such as an inflated dome or trampoline unit, removably secured thereon. The exerciser may include a resilient resistance system coupled to the movable body carriage and a set of pull lines with user grips trained over pulleys carried by the exerciser frame.