Suspension Device Patents (Class 482/143)
  • Patent number: 10589140
    Abstract: An apparatus for suspension training may include at least one supporting strap and at least one moveable handle, wherein the moveable handle further includes a first and second end and the first and second ends further include an engageable locking means and the engageable locking means are in communication with the support strap. In this way the position of the moveable handles may be easily adjusted, increasing the convenience of moving the moveable handles to undertake different exercises using the training or exercise device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: Fitness & Health Ltd.
    Inventor: Antony John Hayes
  • Patent number: 10471291
    Abstract: Patent of utility model pertaining to the non-motorized equipment for the practice of gymnastics constituted with a base, wall support with a format predominantly rectangular provided with holes in the edges and tabs for the fixation of the superior bar of the superior part through fastening elements, as well as holes for fixation in the wall, having a protective cover keeping practically the disposition of the support base. The referred machine is composed at it frontal part of a structure formed by a curved bar provided of a plurality of steps, the top being composed by two opening limiting overhangs in the lateral parts, and the base has a height adjustment through rods composed by cylindrical tubes with pluggable supports, the height being regulated by pins, in a way that the first step is provided with a vertical rod to fix weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Inventor: Fernando Alves Mourao
  • Patent number: 9975000
    Abstract: A device for exercising the gluteal muscles. The device is simple, small, portable, and lightweight, comprised of a half roll with a handle in each end. The user, facing down on top of the device at the level of the hip bones, must keep the legs high in a cantilever position which will exercise the gluteal muscles. To keep the legs in cantilever, the hamstrings muscles, lower back muscles, arm muscles, and core muscles are also exercised; the latter muscles are especially exercised if the upper body does not rest on a surface and is used for balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Inventor: Nelson Fumo
  • Patent number: 9878202
    Abstract: A stand-up abdominal/back muscle exercise device. The stand-up abdominal/back muscle exercise device may include a base, a knee support, and an ankle support. Additionally, the stand-up abdominal/back muscle exercise device may include a steady post. The ankle support may include a t-bar, a telescoping inner horizontal support shaft, a telescoping inner vertical support shaft and an ankle padding. The knee support may include a telescoping upright post, a knee support inner shaft, a knee radial pivot lock bracket, a knee cushion and an upper leg support rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Inventor: Gregory Paul Littell
  • Patent number: 9849327
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a mounting assembly and a pulley assembly coupled to the mounting assembly. The pulley assembly includes a first pulley and a second pulley. At least one pulley cable is positioned about the first pulley and the second pulley for movement relative thereto. A body engaging assembly is provided for attachment with the at least one pulley cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Inventor: Gorgi Nikkaran
  • Patent number: 9821188
    Abstract: A pulley system of an exercise device for suspended weight training includes a first block with a first pulley, a second pulley, and a first attachment point. A second block is removably coupled to a weight and includes a third pulley and a second attachment point. A grip is configured to be held by a user while exercising and has a third attachment point. A line having a first line end is fixedly coupled to the grip and a second line end fixedly is coupled to a connection element. The connection element is configured to be selectively coupled to each of the first attachment point, the second attachment point, and the third attachment point, permits a user to reduce an effective amount of the weight lifted by the user with movement of the grip to a pre-selected fraction of the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Stripe Fitness LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Dwork, Josh Dwork
  • Patent number: 9504865
    Abstract: A trapeze bar assembly provides an elongated support member that can be removably coupled with first and second coupling mechanisms. The coupling mechanisms can couple the support member to flexible suspension members to suspend the support member in the air. The coupling mechanisms can be infinitely positionable along the suspension members. The coupling mechanisms also each include a frame member with an opening that receives one end of the support member. Retention features on the support bar and the frame member can removably retain the end of the support bar within the frame member. The support member can also be rotatably fixed relative to the frame members via cooperating engagement features. A trapeze system is also provided including a support member, coupling mechanisms, and first and second flexible suspension members for suspending the support member. A method for assembling a trapeze apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: Aerialates LLC
    Inventors: Elizabeth Skwiot, Jacob Barlow Kimball
  • Patent number: 9402776
    Abstract: A restraint, reposition, traction, and exercise device treats acute or chronic mechanical pain, particularly back, neck, hip, pelvis, shoulder, knees, and/or leg pain, and restores and/or increases range of motion in suitable users. The device may include two or more movable support structures and two or more restraints, such as straps. The restraints may be incrementally adjustable to stabilize two or more portions of a person's body, such as the back and/or pelvic regions, against the support structures in any number of three-dimensional orientations that produce a substantially pain-free position. The support structures may be moved apart to apply spinal traction to the portions of the person's body between the restraints. Exercises may be performed while in a substantially pain-free position before, during, or after spinal traction is applied. The user may reposition and restrain herself/himself in another substantially pain-free position and then re-apply spinal traction and/or perform further exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: BackProject Corporation
    Inventors: Swee Lin Hoffman, Steven Ari Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8986179
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus used to work core muscles such as one's abdomen, obliques, and lower back. The exercise apparatus includes a framework, a leg brace, and a waist support. In some embodiments, the leg brace is motorized, the waist support is motorized, or both the leg brace and the waist support are motorized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: P & L Company, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Louis G. Cares
  • Patent number: 8979717
    Abstract: Chin-up assemblies have a mount, a suspension member spaced from the mount, at least one handle that is movable along the suspension member and pivotable with respect to the suspension member, and an arm coupled to the handle. Pivoting of the handle with respect to the suspension member couples the arm to the mount to thereby fix the position of the handle along the suspension member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Jacob Glickstein, Westin Nelson
  • Patent number: 8920294
    Abstract: A suspension training device, system and method for using the same is disclosed. A suspension training device includes an elongated strap, a handle at a first end of the elongated strap, a harness at a second end of the elongated strap, and one or more stops, each stop being affixed at a position along a length of the elongated strap between the handle and the harness. A gravity training system includes two or more suspension training devices. The suspension training devices can be suspending with a stationary object by the stops, such as the elongated strap being threaded between a door and a doorframe, to a desired length to allow a user to accomplish any number of exercises or gravity-resistant movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Power Straps, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul G. Davis
  • Publication number: 20140329653
    Abstract: A training aid for use with a suspended and tensioned line, a dynamic suspended line, one or more ropes or a slackline for improving the human proprioceptive system, athletic performance, athletic speed, athletic agility, athletic vertical leap, athletic eye/hand coordination, spatial awareness, left/right brain organization and increasing the muscular development of a user. The training aid includes a board member. The user places all or part of their body weight on a top surface of the board member and attempts to balance. A latch member may be provided for securing the board member to the line. One or more engagement members may be provided for providing a reduction to the oscillation of the line when the training aid is mounted thereto. Optionally, the board member may be placed atop a flexible and/or deformable support member to provide for balance training.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: SLACKBOW LLC
    Inventor: James E. KLOPMAN
  • Patent number: 8876679
    Abstract: The present application includes various embodiments of apparatuses, systems, kits, and methods for physical exercise of a user. Some embodiments, for example, include an apparatus comprising: a strap having a length between a first end and a second end, the strap having an elastic portion between and spaced apart from the first and second ends; a first handle coupled to the strap on a first side of the elastic portion and spaced apart from the elastic portion; a second handle coupled to the strap on a second side of the elastic portion and spaced apart from the elastic portion; and one or more suspension members configured to be coupled (i) to the strap at a first point between the elastic portion and the first handle, and at a second point between the elastic portion and the second handle, and (ii) to be coupled to a supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: 12Novem Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Brian DeMarco, Autumn DeMarco
  • Patent number: 8864639
    Abstract: A balance board adapted for riding rail-to-rail, preferably so that at least a portion of a rider's feet will be placed on the board over the elongated roller. The balance board includes an elongated, planar board having a length that exceeds a width. The balance board further includes two pair of stops mounted to an underside of the board, each pair of stops being mounted near opposite ends of the board, and each stop of the pair of stops being mounted near opposite sides of the board. The balance board further includes a traction region between each stop of each pair of stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: GoofBoard Products, LLC
    Inventor: Armin Brown
  • Patent number: 8858410
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training to the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. The exercise apparatus comprises a support, two foot platforms, and means for attaching the foot platforms to the support. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8840532
    Abstract: A method of strap control and an apparatus including a combined strap-length adjuster and strap keeper is disclosed for use with strap-length adjuster comprising two rings. The strap-length adjuster includes openings that permit the attachment of a tether to the strap keeper. The arrangement allows the tether to not interfere with the positioning or movement of the straps, and maintains the straps close to the strap-length adjuster and prevents slippage of the strap through the strap-length adjuster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Fitness Anywhere, LLC
    Inventors: Randal Hetrick, Jordan Edward Macdonald, Stephanie Russo
  • Publication number: 20140274624
    Abstract: We present a tool that can enhance the concept of BWS training by allowing natural APAs to occur mediolaterally. While in a supine position in a 90 degree tilted environment built around a modified hospital bed, subjects wear a backpack frame that is freely moving on air-hearings, as a puck on an air hockey table, and attached through a cable to a pneumatic cylinder that provides a load that can be set to emulate various G-like loads. Veridical visual input is provided through two 3-D automultiscopic displays that allow glasses free 3-D vision representing a virtual surrounding environment that may be acquired from sites chosen by the patient. Two groups of 12 healthy subjects were exposed to either strength training alone or a combination of strength and balance training in such a tilted environment over a period of four weeks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Lars I. E. Oddsson
  • Patent number: 8821428
    Abstract: A traction apparatus which impresses a desired traction force to a body to be pulled is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Ito Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Noboru Tanaka, Yoshiharu Ootomo, Toshimasa Sakagami
  • Patent number: 8814761
    Abstract: A bodyweight resistance exercise apparatus has a base portion, a platform secured to the base portion, main vertical supports coupled to an end of the base portion, upper vertical supports coupled to an upper end of the main vertical supports and angled relative thereto, and lifting straps coupled through the upper vertical supports and to the main vertical supports. Adjustability may be provided in a number of ways, including with respect to the location of the platform along the base portion, the angle of the main vertical supports relative to the base portion, the rotational position of the upper vertical supports relative to the main vertical supports, and the attachment of the lifting straps along the main vertical supports. When a desired configuration is achieved, a user may perform bodyweight resistance exercise in a core-stabilized position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventors: Douglas J. Rich, Aaron K. Radelow
  • Publication number: 20140121083
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided having a torso support suspended at either end by a frame, which allows the torso support to swing from side-to-side in a pendular motion. Arms extend from each end of the torso support and connect to swivels positioned on the frame, whereby the rotational movement of the torso support relative to at least one of the arms is restrained, so that the torso support will not flip over. The torso support swings relative to an axis created by the swivels, and the distance from the low point of the torso support to the axis may be selected to create a swing period of from 1.5 to 2.5 seconds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Skip A. PIERCE
  • Patent number: 8597221
    Abstract: A traction exercise apparatus comprises a rectangular shaped metal frame including a pair of metal vertical members, a metal horizontal member on a bottom side, and a pair of metal horizontal members on a top side. A first rotating metal shaft and a second rotating metal shaft are located across the pair of metal horizontal members. Further a pair of ankle braces is attached to a snap hook. A cable pulley on each side of the first rotating metal shaft supports a first metal cable attached to the snap hook. A first cable reel on each side of second rotating metal shaft supports the first metal cable. A second cable reel on each side of the second rotating metal shaft supports a second metal cable attached to a hand grab bar. Second rotating metal shaft rotates to transmit a tension to the first metal cable to perform different traction exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Lisowski
  • Patent number: 8550964
    Abstract: Resistance training apparatus and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes an exercise station having a support portion and at least one user interface operatively coupled to the support portion by an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a housing attached to the support portion, and a coupling device pivotably attached to the housing and moveable throughout an angular range, the coupling device being coupled to the at least one user interface and configured to move through at least a portion of the angular range during use of the at least one user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Buell Ish, III, L. Kent Lines, Robert A. Rasmussen, Mark Tollison
  • Patent number: 8491450
    Abstract: Provision of bodily exercise equipment, including providing an upright frame and an assembly rotatable about a primary transverse axis while supported by the frame, the assembly including a body support platform, a leg support spaced from the platform, a linearly adjustable element to linearly adjust the position of the leg support, an angularly adjustable element or elements to angularly adjust the position of the leg support about a second transverse axis relative to the platform. The space between the platform and the leg support allows the standing user to position his body adjacent the platform and to position his legs adjacent the leg support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Leroy R. Perry, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8480549
    Abstract: An exercise bar is configured to removably receive elastic lines, allowing its use in elastic resistance exercises, and/or inelastic lines, allowing its use in suspended bodyweight exercises. Separate grips, each being engageable by a hand or a foot, are also provided, and may be removably connected to the bar or to each other via one or more lines. Bar supports may also be provided to support the bar above the ground, allowing easy use of the bar to perform push-ups and other exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventors: Robert S. Hinds, Glenn Polinsky, Ray Rollins, John Stephenson, Brandon Grayson Hall, Doug J. Birkholz, Leslie A. Wagner
  • Patent number: 8475342
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to a portable child development station. More specifically, an infant crawling and walking aid. The invention is collapsible and can be stored in smaller confines. When the invention is set up, it is structurally sound and safe with detachable variations allowing assistance in crawling as well as walking by suspending the infant with variable height adjustments to accommodate infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel William Flowers, James William Flowers
  • Publication number: 20130165302
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for motion and muscle training are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first retractor device, a second retractor device and a body gear unit for engaging a human. The body gear unit is attached to the first retractor device and the second retractor device. The first retractor device and the second retractor device each provide a constant non-variable load and constant resistance in opposite directions. A method includes attaching a body gear unit to a body, attaching first and second retractor devices to the body gear unit, and performing at least one movement using the body gear unit. The at least one movement is performed in a direction that is opposite to a direction of resistance of the first retractor device. A direction of resistance of the second retractor device is opposite to the direction of resistance of the first retractor device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: CHRISTOPHER VERDI
  • Patent number: 8419599
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater exercise and physical therapy device for joint release and spinal adjustment wherein a tube is worn on a user's upper body and weights are worn on the user's feet in a water tank having a predetermined depth wherein his feet are spaced apart from the bottom surface thereof to carry out underwater exercise and physical therapy by using the buoyant force of the tube and the gravity of the weights, thereby enabling his joints to be released, making his muscles reformed, and further adjusting and preventing his spinal diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Gye-Hyun Seol
  • Patent number: 8292790
    Abstract: An exercise device includes at least one arc-shaped wing structure shaped to conform to a curvature of an exterior surface of an exercise ball such that when applied to the exterior surface thereof the at least one arc-shaped wing structure has a lower proximal end and an upper distal radiating end, protrudes away from the exterior surface of the exercise ball to a given distance that increases along a direction from the lower proximal end towards the upper distal radiating end, and is operable to provide an increased resistance against a rolling movement of the exercise ball along a surface when the at least one arc-shaped wing structure comes into rolling contact with the surface. An exercise ball with a plurality of the wing structures is likewise provided, the wing structures being integral or removable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Publication number: 20120202662
    Abstract: The present application includes various embodiments of apparatuses, systems, kits, and methods for physical exercise of a user. Some embodiments, for example, include an apparatus comprising: a strap having a length between a first end and a second end, the strap having an elastic portion between and spaced apart from the first and second ends; a first handle coupled to the strap on a first side of the elastic portion and spaced apart from the elastic portion; a second handle coupled to the strap on a second side of the elastic portion and spaced apart from the elastic portion; and one or more suspension members configured to be coupled (i) to the strap at a first point between the elastic portion and the first handle, and at a second point between the elastic portion and the second handle, and (ii) to be coupled to a supporting structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Brian DeMarco, Autumn DeMarco
  • Patent number: 8235878
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a central hub, a plurality of rib structures radiating from the central hub, and a band. Each rib structure has a proximal end secured at the central hub and terminating at a distal, radiating end. The band is secured to the distal end of each rib structure such that the central hub, the plurality of rib structures, and the band form an enclosure operable to seat therein a bottom portion of an exercise ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 8172737
    Abstract: A gymnastics training apparatus includes a back support rotatably connected to a frame and adapted to support a gymnast during a back handspring. The apparatus includes a guide connected to the frame and adapted to be impacted by the back support as the back support rotates about the frame in engagement with the gymnast. The guide is dimensioned such that, when the back support impacts the guide, the rotational axis of the back support is shifted and the rotation of the back support is accelerated. This acceleration causes the back support to exert pressure against the gymnast and to assist the gymnast in creating a snapdown to safely and correctly practice a back handspring without the assistance of a coach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: International Gymnastics Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Johan Nihlman, James Surgent, David Surgent
  • Publication number: 20120094815
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an exercise apparatus with a plurality of hooks for attaching resistance bands and a method for manufacturing the exercise apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: David J. Trettin, Corey Ritter
  • Patent number: 8152703
    Abstract: An exemplary exercise device descending from an elevated support (e.g., a bar or door frame) allows a user to insert a body part in a loop (e.g., a foot for pull-ups or a waist for push-ups) descending from an elastic resistance unit, which uses a variable number of stretchable elastic members between top and bottom connectors to reduce the effective weight the user has to pull/push up. Each of the resistance unit top and bottom connectors has several elastic member sockets, each socket having a socket passage extending through the connector. Each elastic member has an elongated portion between two member plugs sized to resist passing through the elastic member socket passages. Elastic members can be removably and replaceably installed by inserting a portion of each member plug within an elastic member socket, one member plug in each of the resistance unit top and bottom connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: Robert S. Hinds, Ray Rollins, Glenn Polinsky, John Stephenson
  • Patent number: 8096922
    Abstract: A device for use with an exercise apparatus consisting of at least one hanging, length-adjustable and lockable rope (10, 11) which at its lower end has a gripping means (13, 14), e.g., a gripping loop. A vibration means (12; 16) is designed, when attached via a rope engaging member (8, 9) to a portion of such rope, to impart to the rope and thus its gripping means (13, 14) a vibratory motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Redcord AS
    Inventor: Tore Planke
  • Patent number: 8088053
    Abstract: A physical training and rehabilitation system includes a rope having first and second sides that hang downwardly from a bar, beam or other support, the rope terminating in first and second ends. A locking mechanism having first and second sections receives the first and second rope sides, respectively. Each section of the mechanism is independently adjustable between an unlocked position, wherein the rope side associated with that section can slide through the locking mechanism, and a locked position, wherein the rope side associated with that section is prevented from sliding. A connector disposed at the first end of the rope forms a loop for connection to an attachment or accessory related to a desired activity. The attachments or accessories may include a loop, a sling, a rigid bar, a spring, a support belt, or a handle. The system may be provided in kit form. Methods of assembly and use are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Orenda LLC
    Inventors: Khita Whyatt, Kirsten Sell
  • Publication number: 20110287913
    Abstract: An exercise device is disclosed. The exercise device includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a first substantially planar surface and is configured to support a portion of a patient. The second portion includes a second substantially planar surface and is configured to support a portion of a patient. The second substantially planar surface is oppositely disposed of the first substantially planar surface. The first substantially planar surface includes a diameter, and the second substantially planar surface includes a diameter. The diameter of the first substantially planar surface is smaller than the diameter of the second substantially planar surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Marino
  • Patent number: 8038584
    Abstract: A method and a strong, light weight, portable apparatus useful for assisting a person to safely practice Yoga using a real tree. The apparatus comprises a plurality of strong, flexible, inelastic, continuous loop slings, predominately of Mountain Climbing Specification Nylon tube webbing, connected to one another in an interlocking fashion. This Yoga multi-sling is dimensioned for attachment in a secure manner to most any tree or strong branch; and is designed to comfortably support the user's body or limbs in such a manner as to alter the orientation of one's body with respect to gravity. This method and apparatus empower the user to employ gravity as the exercising or stretching force through the positioning of the user's own body or limbs to create first, second, and third class levers in order to multiply and focus these forces on targeted muscles or muscle groups, and enhance the flow of one's Yoga practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventors: Hal Pruessner, Debra P Pruessner
  • Patent number: 8021287
    Abstract: A restraint, reposition, traction, and exercise device treats acute or chronic mechanical pain, particularly back, neck, hip, pelvis, shoulder, knees, and/or leg pain, and restores and/or increases range of motion in suitable users. The device may include two or more movable support structures and two or more restraints, such as straps. The restraints may be incrementally adjustable to stabilize two or more portions of a person's body, such as the back and/or pelvic regions, against the support structures in any number of three-dimensional orientations that produce a substantially pain-free position. The support structures may be moved apart to apply spinal traction to the portions of the person's body between the restraints. Exercises may be performed while in a substantially pain-free position before, during, or after spinal traction is applied. The user may reposition and restrain herself/himself in another substantially pain-free position and then re-apply spinal traction and/or perform further exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: BackProject Corporation
    Inventors: Swee Lin Hoffman, Steven Ari Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8012074
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a body having rib-like structures and an annular band. Each rib-like structure has an exterior surface defining a longitudinal extent, terminates at a radiating end, and has at least one wing formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent and protruding away from the exterior surface to a given distance that increases along a direction towards the radiating end. The rib-like structures overlap at a central point to comprise a central base. The annular band is connected to the radiating end of each rib-like structure such that the rib-like structures and the band together form a cup-shaped enclosure operable to seat therein a bottom portion of an exercise ball. The at least one wing of each rib-like structure is operable to provide an incremental resistance against a rolling movement of the exercise ball along a substantially flat surface when the exercise ball is seated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 8002671
    Abstract: The Supine Elevation Cycle is uniquely designed to provide multiple levels of physical therapy, or if desired, a vigorous and effective cardiovascular workout while minimizing painful and damaging physical impact on the body's major joints. The SEC features an elevated cycling device whereby the user exercises in a supine or reclined position while pedaling with the lower extremities positioned above the level of the heart. This results in a transfer of weight bearing stress from major joints to the large muscles in the calves, thighs, abdomen and back. With an adjustable back support, the user, utilizing the extension and angling features of the cycling device, can target numerous muscle groups of the body and extremities. Additional supine or upright positions with proper adjustment of the apparatus allow the targeting of muscle groups in the arms, shoulders, chest and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Larry Vigilia, Kerry Michael Kilbride
  • Publication number: 20110124477
    Abstract: A suspension training device, system and method for using the same is disclosed. A suspension training device includes an elongated strap, a handle at a first end of the elongated strap, a harness at a second end of the elongated strap, and one or more stops, each stop being affixed at a position along a length of the elongated strap between the handle and the harness. A gravity training system includes two or more suspension training devices. The suspension training devices can be suspending with a stationary object by the stops, such as the elongated strap being threaded between a door and a doorframe, to a desired length to allow a user to accomplish any number of exercises or gravity-resistant movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: The Power Straps, Inc.
    Inventor: PAUL G. DAVIS
  • Patent number: 7942796
    Abstract: An exercise device for controlling the rolling movement of a stability ball during exercise. The exercise device has a central base, a plurality of rib-like structures radiating from the central base, each rib-like structure having at least one wing, formed substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the exterior surface of the rib-like structure and protruding outward at a variable distance, and an annular-shaped band connected to each rib-like structure such that the central base, the plurality of rib-like structures, and the annular-shaped band form a cup-like enclosure. A partial, bottom portion of the stability ball is seated securely in the cup-like enclosure. The at least one wing of each rib-like structure is shaped such that it provides an incremental resistance against the rolling movement of the exercise ball as the ball is rolled along a substantially flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 7931574
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing lumbar stretching treatments comprises a supporting structure where at least one electric motor vertically moves leg supporting members. A person that needs performing lumbar stretching treatments takes the right position at the apparatus and autonomously controls it powering the vertical movement of the leg supporting means which put into traction the lower section of the person's back. The apparatus may also be installed on specific beds having a lay surface horizontally translatable in order to improve the comfortable use of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Donati, S.R.L.
    Inventor: Marco Bracci
  • Patent number: 7914428
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body allows a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a main frame, two foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the main frame. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. In another embodiment, a movable upright bar is connected to a supporting frame for training the upper body of the user. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7909748
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus may include a swivel and one or more elongated members, such as ropes or cords, suspended from the swivel with a support, such as a bar, for the user suspended between either ends of a single elongated member, or between two elongated members. The height of the support can be adjusted by placing ends of the support bar in loops formed along the elongated member. Hand holds and foot holds may also be mounted on the loops. In addition, the support may be prevented from rotating along its longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Reebok International Ltd.
    Inventors: Leslie Calvagne, Yumi Lee, William Liteplo, Timothy Higgins, John Fiegener, Daniel Armstrong, Michael Tinstman, Jonathan Levy
  • Patent number: 7892151
    Abstract: A sports board simulator (10) comprising a main frame assembly (11) which is suspended from an elevated anchor point so as to be free for at least limited pivoting and swinging movement about the anchor point, the main frame assembly (11) including arms (17) which can be gripped by a user and/or the user can be secured to the frame assembly (11) by a harness (25). An elongated board (40) upon which the user may stand is suspended from the main frame assembly (11) via an intermediate frame (36) which permits the board (40) to move relative to the main frame assembly (11) about a pivot axis (C-C) extending transversely of the main frame assembly (11). The board (40) is also capable of pivoting about further axes D-D, E, and F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Syco Industries Pty Limited
    Inventors: Alan Clifford Colk, Michael Burke Hill
  • Patent number: 7857741
    Abstract: A combination gravity inversion exercise machine and abdominal crunch exercise machine which enables a user to perform both exercises in one machine. The machine enables a user to save exercise floor space and perform the two different exercises on the same machine to thereby make an exercise session more efficient. The machine combines the features of a gravity inversion machine which enables a user to lie inverted for a period of time to take pressure off the back muscles and also has the features of an abdominal crunch which enables a user to exercise and tighten stomach muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Body Flex Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Bob Hsiung
  • Patent number: 7837605
    Abstract: An ankle-clamping device for an inversion table includes a clamp holder, a motor mounted on the clamp holder, a worm shaft rotated by the motor, and a clamping roller unit that includes a worm gear connected rotatably to the clamp holder and meshing with the worm shaft, a lever having one end connected to and rotatable along with the worm gear, a pair of fixed clamping rollers fixed to the clamp holder, and a pair of movable clamping rollers fixed to the lever. The movable clamping rollers are movable toward or away from the fixed clamping rollers to cooperatively clamp therebetween or to permit release of the user's ankles from therebetween, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventor: Chieh-Ming Wu
  • Publication number: 20100279837
    Abstract: It consists of an equipment (1) for passive stretching of the structures of the spine; constituted by auto-portable structure (2) endowed of superior moto-reducer set (3) with pulley (4) passible of moving, upwards or downwards, an one-line connection element (5) to be fastened to a garment (V) placed in the spill of the hip of the user, with central catch (6), being such moto-reducer set (3) activated by remote control (7) and course limited by sensor (S).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Kleiton Stengel
  • Publication number: 20100261591
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training to the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. The exercise apparatus comprises a main frame, a foot platform (preferably two) and means for attaching the foot platforms to the main frame. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: BVP HOLDING, INC.
    Inventor: ROBERT A. PIANE, JR.