Abstract: A torsion bar resistance unit and a variable resistance unit system having at least one selectably engageable torsion bar is disclosed. A resistance training machine having a plurality of selectably engageable torsion bars coupled to a lever is disclosed wherein a rotational resistance load is based on which of the plurality of torsion bars are rotatably locked and the force applied to the lever. Also disclosed is a user interface that allows a user to selectively engage any of the plurality of torsion bars, output the total resistance load and the translation distance on an output screen.

Abstract: A vertically oriented fitness apparatus utilizes a combination of upper and lower assemblies resistant to vertical motion when the user pushes and pulls against crossbar members of the assemblies vertically. In alternate embodiments of the apparatus, resistance is provided by a dual action dashpot such as an adjustable bidirectional hydraulic damping cylinder which may be used in combination with spring resistance elements. The user is thus able to perform strength training and fitness conditioning exercises for both upper and lower extremities, and their core simultaneously while using the apparatus.

Abstract: A controlled squat strength-training machine includes a frame with a base mounting forward, intermediate, and rear uprights. The intermediate upright is pivotally connected to the base and is configured for limited rotation fore-and-aft. Knee pads are provided for restraining of users' knees. Users can adjust the resistance of the machine and thereby very the exercises performed thereon.

Abstract: An exercise machine support system for providing increased versatility including inclination or declination of an exercise surface, a reduction in the overall length and width of the exercise machine, and an enhanced user interface which reduces the risk of injury. The exercise machine support system generally includes a cantilevered exercise machine which is adapted to have a variable angle of incline or decline with respect to a horizontal ground surface. The exercise machine will generally include a base and a support which extends between the base and the exercise machine. The upper end of the support is connected to the exercise machine by a first pivot such that the exercise machine pivots about the support. An adjustment device may be utilized to pivot the exercise machine and thus adjust its angle of incline. Various types of adjustment devices are disclosed, including an actuator, ratchet-and-pawl, gears, and cam.

Abstract: A four-bar linkage assembly exercise station that can be adjusted to various configurations to create various exercise motions having at least one adjustable operational pivot that is movable prior to operation of the machine and stationary during operation of the machine and at least one stationary adjustment pivot operatively connected to the at least one adjustable operational pivot. The stationary adjustment pivot is also operatively connected to an adjusting and latching component or assembly that can be engaged by a user prior to operation of the machine to adjust the four-bar linkage assembly exercise station to a desired configuration to create a unique exercise motion and secure the desired configuration of the adjustable four-bar linkage assembly.

Abstract: A bi-directional exercise machine has a work arm, first and second cams coupled to the work arm, a resistance mechanism, and a pulley assembly that couples the resistance mechanism to the work arm via the first and second cams so that movement of the work arm is resisted by the resistance mechanism according to first and second resistance profiles provided by the first and second cams, respectfully. A primary pulley cable has a first end coupled to the first cam and a second end coupled to the second cam. When the work arm is in a rest position, the ends of the primary pulley cable extend from cable tracks of the cams, respectively, at a tangent so that the resistance mechanism applies a resistance force on the work arm via the pulley assembly immediately upon movement of the work arm out of the rest position.

Abstract: An exercise machine system that allows for completion of a plurality of exercises on one machine is disclosed.

Abstract: A system for providing resistance in an exercise machine. The system includes a motor, at least one loop drive attached to the motor. A carriage is coupled to the loop drive. The carriage moves in a first direction when the motor is turned in a first direction and a second direction when the motor is turned in a second direction. At least one sensor is attached to the carriage, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect external force on the carriage. Information from the sensor indicates external force on the carriage. The information is used to determine a movement of the carriage in response to the external force. The motor is instructed to turn the loop drive to apply the movement.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing one or more exercises is described. The exercise includes at least one support structure, one or more elastic bands, and a back support member. The one or more elastic bands is coupled to the at least one support structure at one end of the one or more elastic bands. The back support member is arranged in an inclined position such that a first end of the back support member is detachably coupled to the at least one support structure and a second end of the back support member is supported at a surface positioned at a height lower than a height at which the first end is positioned. The one or more elastic bands are configured to assist a user during one or more exercises, where the back support member configured to support a body of the user.

Abstract: An adjustable fitness bench includes a base frame, a shuttle slidable along at least a portion of the base frame, a support bar pivotally connected to the base frame, a seat back pivotally connected to the shuttle and the support bar, a seat bottom pivotally connected to the shuttle, and a link. The link includes a first end connected to the seat back, and a second end configured to rest against an undersurface of the seat bottom when the adjustable fitness bench is in a horizontal position.

Abstract: A cam mechanism may include a cam assembly rotatably mounted to an axis shaft and having a profile arc adapted for receiving a belt or cable, a belt adjustment lever pivotally mounted to the cam assembly and having a control bearing, and a cam range slot plate rigidly mounted to the axis shaft and defining a slot in sliding communication with the control bearing of the belt adjustment lever, wherein the belt adjustment lever is connected to one end of a belt or cable, and the opposite end of the belt or cable is connected to a moveable weight stack, and wherein the cam assembly is rotatable relative to the cam range slot plate.

Abstract: A direct drive resistance system for exercise machines having a weighted moment arm that is lifted and lowered by a lifting moment arm and lifting component, which is moved by a force transfer assembly, which is operatively connected to a rotary component of an exercise machine, such that when the exercise machine is activated the force transfer assembly, the lifting moment arm, the lifting component and the weighted moment arm move concurrently to create a resistance force to the motion of the exercise machine.

Abstract: An exercise machine system includes a frame having a front bar and a back bar with a cross bar extending therebetween; a weight attachment bar pivotally attached to the cross bar, the weight attachment bar extending to a weight end; one or more handles attached to the weight bar and configured to provide a gripping location to provide upward movement of the weight bar; and a body support positioned above the frame, the body support having one or more pads to allow for supporting a person thereon; the weight attachment bar is positioned under the body support such that a user can pull up on the weight attachment bar from the body support.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an exercise device that is used to perform squat exercise. The device comprises a support bar, a height-adjustable support tube or column, a base, an electronic unit, and a seat. The support bar is positioned on a top portion of the support tube via a set of springs. The sprigs are configured to reposition the support bar to a horizontal position after the user leaves the seat and rises back into the upright body position. The electronic unit is configured to receive a set threshold value on maximum squat count from a user. The electronic unit records the squat count and provide an alert when the squat count exceeds the set threshold value on maximum squat count to be performed by the user, thereby it prevents injuries caused due to over enthusiastic during the exercise session.

Abstract: Exercise machines and methods are provided for purposes of increasing a person's physical fitness. The systems are computer-controlled and are devoid of any stacks of weights associated with conventional exercise equipment. The systems feature isotonic modes, isokinetic modes, isometric modes and hybrid exercise modes. The systems are programmed to be suited to a particular individual user, based on their range of motion for a particular selected exercise and body part, which is determined during an initialization process. Force experienced by users is not dampened, and forces experienced by a user are responsive by the system to the force input by the user. In some embodiments the position of a user's limb is employed as an input for determining the torque output of a resistance unit which supplies resistive force for undertaking a selected exercise.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for exercising muscles comprises a power arm (2), which is pivotable about a pivot shaft (5), which is disposed on a holding element (6). The first articulation point (7) at which a compression spring element (9) is linked to the power arm (2) is adjustable along the power arm (2). To achieve this, one end region (8) of the compression spring element (9) is provided with a first joint surface (14), and a series of second joint surfaces (16), which are designed complementary to the first joint surface (14), is disposed across an adjustment zone (10) along the power arm (2). The first joint surface (14) is operatively connectible to one of the second joint surfaces (16), and the power arm (2) is pressed via a further spring element (18) toward the one end region (8) of the compression spring element (9) such that the two operatively connected joint surfaces are kept in contact with each other. Resulting thereby is a simple possibility of adjustment of the force to be applied to the power arm.

Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus via a control interface of an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch has occurred on the surface of the touch screen and whether the touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use specific actions to operate the exercise apparatus from one condition of using a first speed value to another condition of using a second speed value.

Abstract: An orthotic system includes a controller, a joint and a fail-safe system for the joint. In a preferred embodiment, the orthotic system is an exoskeleton, the joint is a knee joint and the fail-safe system is a normally engaged brake that is controlled by the controller. The brake is engaged when the controller fails or the exoskeleton is powered off. The exoskeleton also includes an electrical or mechanical brake disengagement mechanism, separate from the controller, so that an exoskeleton user can disengage the brake when desired. The exoskeleton can also include an override mechanism that prevents the brake disengagement mechanism from functioning when the exoskeleton is powered on and the controller has not failed. Additionally, the exoskeleton can include a user interface at one location, with the brake disengagement mechanism located at a different, limited access location, so that the user cannot accidentally activate the brake disengagement mechanism.

Abstract: An exercise machine in the form of a stationary rigid metal construction is provided, which includes a support frame having an axle. The axle is provided on the outer side of levers. The levers are pivotally mounted on the uprights of the support frame. Limiters for limiting the movement of a weight are in the form of transverse connections between the levers and are installed on both sides of the axle. A load guide is provided between the limiters and is in the form of a bent rod having two rectilinear portions and an arc. A limiter of lever position is in the form of a U-shaped frame and is affixed to the levers. A bench is mounted on the support frame.

Abstract: The present invention relates to equipment, apparatus and systems used for exercising muscle groups of the body, more specifically, a resistance system for making variable mechanical resistance exercises, which receive voice commands, changes in brain waves and/or any body movement.

Abstract: A damper with linear power generation and reluctance includes a tube body, a movable driving rod, and a generator whereby the driving rod displaces in linear movement in the tube body and drives a screw rod by a screw sleeve to connect and drive a driving mechanism to rotate a shaft of a generator thereof, rotating a rotor thereof and producing a torque by the electromagnetic loading from the operation of the magnet and group of coil as the buffer and damping force for the linear displacement. The present invention complements the defect of oil leakage in the prior art and produces reluctance by the generator thereof, producing the damping force in a short time and being able to keep the balance of the force, therefore featuring itself longer durability with high quality.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiments herein provide an exercise device having a frame, comprising a first and a second arm, a first end of each arm meeting in fixed angular relationship at a vertex and a second end of each arm extending away from the vertex; a lever arm, having a first and a second end, the first end constrained to rotate about a pin located near the vertex; and a resistance arrangement, configured to convert rotation by a user of a first rotational assembly about an axis on the second end of the first arm into rotation of a second rotational assembly about an axis on the second end of the lever arm, which is converted into rotation of a third rotational assembly about an axis on the second end of the second arm, with the rotation of the third rotational assembly being resisted by a resistive element, the resistance arrangement providing a substantially constant resistance against the rotation of the first rotational assembly by the user over the entire range of the rotation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments of an exercise apparatus. In certain embodiments, an exercise apparatus comprises an exercise station coupled to a resistance system, the exercise station comprising a frame, an arm assembly, and a seat assembly comprising a seat, the seat having a first position and a second position and configured to move between the first and second positions, wherein the first position accommodates use of the exercise apparatus by a user sitting on the seat and wherein the second position accommodates use of the exercise apparatus by a user sitting in a wheelchair. In some embodiments, the seat assembly may comprise a biasing element which allows users to move the seat from the first position to the second position without needing to lift the seat.

Abstract: A recumbent fitness equipment with synchronized pedals and armrests and a seat adjustment device includes a frame, a rotary wheel assembly, a pair of pedal assemblies, a pair of armrests, a seat mounting rack, and seat. When the user stamps the pedals, the armrests also move along with the pedals, so that the user's feet and hands can move simultaneously during exercise, so as to improve exercise effect. Besides, the distances from the seat member and the armrest rods to the pedal assemblies can be adjusted to meet the demands of different users.

Abstract: A bilateral upper limb exercise device (10) for exercising a user's arms comprising a central mounting structure (12) that is mountable to a fixed surface or structure (15), left and right limb supports (14a, 14b) for supporting the forearm and/or hand of a respective arm of the user, and a pair of articulated linkage arms (22a, 22b) that are pivotably coupled to opposite sides of the central mounting structure (12) and which are arranged to support a respective limb support (14a, 14b) for movement in at least two degrees of freedom in a two-dimensional (2D) movement plane. A mirroring mechanism is also operatively coupled to the articulated linkage arms (22a, 22b) such that movement of the opposing limb support relative to a central line of symmetry of the device.

Abstract: A change of direction machine provides training for various muscles and body structures of a user. In one embodiment, the machine provides focused training for the muscles and body structures associated with making changes in the body's direction. The machine may comprise a pivoting arm assembly supported by a structure. The arm assembly may be configured to provide a resistance such that when a user engages the arm assembly a downward resistance may be applied to the user. The user may engage the arm assembly with his or her upper body and perform training or exercises involving lifting and lowering the user's body, moving laterally, or both. The machine may have various adjustable components to fit a user and to provide the desired resistance to the user.

Abstract: Apparatus for both supporting an occupant as a task chair and exercising the lumbar extensors. The chair has two configurations. One configuration is as a task chair. A second configuration is as an exercise device in which the arm rests move to restrain the anterior pelvic region and the lumbar support becomes a posterior pelvic restraint. The seatback moves through a range of motion with a strength curve ratio of about 1.4:1 between flexion and extension. The chair has a resistance mechanism that includes a four-bar linkage connected to a selectable group of coil springs. The chair includes a range of motion monitor and detectors that communicate with a feedback system, which indicates if the occupant is performing the exercise correctly. The feedback system displays a screen showing the angular position of the seatback with a comparison of the ideal position for the exercise.

Abstract: An exercise arm apparatus and method of use. The exercise arm comprises at least one finger, a spindle attached to the finger, and weights sized to reside on the spindle. One end of the exercise arm is rotatably attached at a pivot point to a frame or to a vertical surface; a belt is attached to an opposite end of the exercise arm by means of a belt line. Where the exercise arm is rotatably attached to a frame, dip bars and chin bars are disclosed wherein an exerciser may perform dips and chins. Upward motion by an exerciser wearing the belt is impeded by spindle weights, a belt elastic attached at one end to the belt and at an opposite end to the exercise arm, and/or an elastic member attached at one end to the frame and at an opposite end to the exercise arm.

Abstract: A swiveling user support assembly has a user support or seat rotatably mounted on a user support mounting device or frame for rotation about a first pivot axis, while the mounting device or frame is pivotally or rigidly connected to a main frame of an exercise machine. The user support has a base, and a primary user support and stabilizing device mounted on the base. A pivot connection between the base and mounting device or frame allows the user support to swivel from side to side about the first pivot axis. A centering mechanism helps to orient the user support in a central position for user entry or exit.

Abstract: A collapsible exercise machine for strengthening the core muscles (transverse abdominal, internal obliques, external obliques, rectus abdominis, and erector spinae) includes a frame mounted on a base on which a user sits and manipulates an upstanding lever arm. A seat is convertible between two differently-angled positions for back extension or abdominal exercises. The lever arm rotates a curved tube having a plurality of force adjustment holes. The tube passes through a frame at the upper end of a gas spring, and engaging an adjustment pin on the frame with different adjustment holes changes the amount of resistance. The entire frame above the base can be vertically adjusted to accommodate different sizes of user without altering the relative position between the seat (and user's hips) and the axis of rotation of the lever arm thus not affecting/changing the designated resistance between users of different heights (resistance is affected when the lever arm is lengthened).

Abstract: The method and system of this invention provides for core muscle strengthening. The method comprises the step of: providing an apparatus (10) that provides resistance and assistance during core muscle training using dynamic therapeutic movement for chest, back, abdominal and leg musculature to strengthen and condition muscles of the axial skeleton and lower extremities of a performing user. In one embodiment, the method also is for non-invasive physical therapy.

Abstract: A traction apparatus which impresses a desired traction force to a body to be pulled is provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a training machine for strength training and rehabilitation comprising pull or press means (42, 43), which are arranged to be moved to and fro, while a predetermined number of weights (18) of a weight package via connection means (22) are brought to be lifted and lowered, respectively, along an inner frame (8), and driving means (48, 49, 50) for lifting said predetermined number of weights in a continuous cycle by means of a first user force towards said pull or press means, and for lowering said predetermined number of weights by means of a second user force, wherein said first force is smaller than said second force.

Abstract: A glute exercise machine has a stationary main frame, a pivotally mounted upper torso support, a knee support, and an exercise arm having a foot support for engaging a user's foot and configured for rotation from a start position by user engaging the knee support with one leg and the exercise arm with the other leg. A connecting linkage translates movement of the exercise arms into rocking movement of the upper torso support. A load is linked to one of the moving parts to provide exercise resistance.

Abstract: A human shoulder stretcher and method of use for gradual, progressive posterior capsular stretching to rehabilitate the shoulder, in particular to address tightness of the posterior capsule of the glenohumeral joint through use of a lever arm and ratcheting mechanism that permits a patient to stretch his or her shoulder without the need for a therapist present.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, a body support assembly in pivotable engagement with the frame, and a counter balance assembly connected to the body support assembly, wherein, in operation, the body support assembly is pivotable from a downward position to a top position. The counter balance assembly partially balances a body weight of a user in a prone position against the body support assembly as the body support assembly is pivoted from the downward position to the top position. The counter balance assembly may include a reaction arm extending from a rear portion of the body support assembly and pivotable about the frame, and may include a weight bearing end opposite the body support assembly. A method of using an exercise machine includes positioning a user body prone against a body support assembly, wherein the body support assembly is pivotally engaged with an exercise machine frame and counterbalancing the user's bodyweight.

Abstract: A neck exercise machine includes a position plate fixed to a cam for rotation therewith about an axis of rotation. The position plate has a multiple of apertures which defines a multiple of start positions for the arm.

Abstract: A wheelchair gym having a support bar releasably connected to the frame of the wheelchair. A vertical post is attached to the support bar and hand grips are slidably mounted on the vertical post. The hand grips are resiliently biased and may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another to provide arm exercise for a patient in the wheelchair. The gym also has leg supports on which resiliently biased foot rests may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another. The leg supports may be moved up and down or may be splayed laterally.

Abstract: Swim training apparatus comprising, a pair of leg bands, each having posterior sides and adapted to be secured around the thigh portion of a swimmer's legs, a waist band having a posterior side and adapted to be secured around the waist of a swimmer, a lever arm attached to waist band and having distal ends and a center and a pair of connecting straps each having distal and proximate ends where the proximate ends are attached to the respective distal ends of the lever arm and the distal ends of the straps are attached to the respective posterior sides of the leg bands.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus combines weight and pneumatic resistance to provide a user with options to work against either or both types of resistances. In one mode, the exercise apparatus includes a user interface, such as, for example, a weight-lifting bar, that a user can move either toward or away from a stationary portion of the user's body. A weight (e.g., a free weight plate) can be selectively coupled to the user interface. A pneumatic resistance device can also be selectively coupled to the user interface independent of whether the user interface is also coupled to the weight. The pneumatic resistance device includes at least one valve to regulate the amount of resistance that the pneumatic resistance device applies to oppose movement of the user interface in at least one direction. At least one actuator may be provided for controlling the at least one valve, the actuator being configured to be manipulated by the user while the user is in an exercise position.

Abstract: An exercise machine has a stationary main frame, a pivotally mounted user support frame, a user engagement device pivotally mounted on one of the frames for engagement by the user in performing an exercise, and a connecting link which links movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support frame. A load resists movement of one of the moving parts of the machine. An elongate flexible, load-bearing connecting linkage extends between the load and user support frame, and first and second anchors are selectively connectible to a first end of the load-bearing connecting linkage to vary the resistance felt by a user. At least one of the anchors is located on the user support frame.

Abstract: The present application describes a combination exercise-massage unit consisting of a base platform with enclosed weight enclosure at one end and a pivoting bed assembly at the other. The bed assembly can easily be tipped having the effect of increasing the weight lifted, reducing the pressure of the rollers on the back or relieving tension by elevating the head. A continuous belt covers a plurality of massage rollers that have replaceable outer sleeves with a variety of different configurations and softness. There is a translating framework that has elevated head rest and two shoulder supports on either side. The person can hold the upright handles or the side support bars with the padded side members of the translating framework. The translating framework can be adjusted in length to accommodate the height of the person using the unit.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a gluteus weight training machine for progressive overload resistance training of the gluteus muscles. The gluteus weight training machine includes a frame, a support member linked to the frame, and two resistance members that provide resistance against a downward arcing rotation of the resistance member. Each resistance member includes a pad against which a user's leg applies force in order to perform the downward arcing rotation of the resistance member. Each resistance member further includes a weight assembly that adjusts the amount of weight used as resistance.

Abstract: A wheelchair gym having a support bar releasably connected to the frame of the wheelchair. A vertical post is attached to the support bar and hand grips are slidably mounted on the vertical post. The hand grips are resiliently biased and may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another to provide arm exercise for a patient in the wheelchair. The gym also has leg supports on which resiliently biased foot rests may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another. The leg supports may be moved up and down or may be splayed laterally.

Abstract: An exercising machine for exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, including an exercising attachment for exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, a computer-controlled resistance actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a resistance for concentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion, a computer-controlled force actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion, a computer for controlling the actuators and a method for exercising, including imparting a resistance for concentric exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion and imparting a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion.

Abstract: An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support movably mounted relative to the main frame for movement between a start position and an end position during an exercise. At least one multi-function user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the frames for engagement and actuation by a user during an exercise, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support. The user engagement device has two different modes of operation selectable by a user for performing different exercises which exercise distinct muscles or muscle groups. A load provides resistance for both exercises.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an orthopedic exerciser and its actuating mechanism which, more specifically, are used for therapy, post-surgery rehabilitation or healing of a knee, of a joint, or the muscles of a leg or any other body member. Such exercisers usually allow a combination of exercises that help in the recovery of the joint, but to minimize the chances of further injuring the body part and therefore increase the recovery process, the exerciser must submit the body part to a controlled level of force. The orthopedic exerciser of the present invention includes an actuating mechanism cooperating with a resistance assembly which provides resistance and/or assistance along different directions of movement of the actuating mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus and method evaluate the power of a muscle group of a user by measuring velocities of an engagement assembly coupled to a resistance element and moved by the user at a highest achievable velocity through a selected number of exercise strokes at each of two resistance levels. A first velocity is determined at a first resistance level. A second velocity is determined at a second resistance level. The first and second velocities are used in combination with the two resistance levels to determine a relationship between the velocity and the resistance level for a particular user. The resistance level where the resistance level and the velocity correspond to an overall maximum power is determined and is displayed for the user so that the user may use the optimum resistance level for training for maximum power generation.

Abstract: An exercise machine designed to enhance flexibility and allow for controlled stretching of torso muscles is herein disclosed. The machine comprises a padded cushion upon which a user is situated in a seated position. The machine also comprises a padded bolster which moves in a circular arc which the user pushes against with their back, chest, or side, depending on the seated position. The bolster supports and guides the user through a full arcuate motion from a vertical position downwardly toward the floor. The machine comprises a stationary second pad which supports a user's pelvis or waist area during the stretching therapy. The positions of both the bolster and stationary pad are adjustable in order to accommodate the user's size. The exercise machine utilizes a series of counterbalancing springs housed within a main enclosure to enable the user to easily return to a sitting position.

Abstract: A gym machine comprising a ground resting base, a structure for supporting a user which is associated with the resting base so that it can rotate about a rotation axis, at least one maneuvering body which is associated movably with the supporting structure and flexible elements which are stretched between the maneuvering body and the ground resting base, the supporting structure rotating about the rotation axis between a first configuration and a second configuration when a user supported by the structure moves the maneuvering body, applying to the maneuvering body an action which is opposite with respect to the action applied thereto by the flexible elements.