Suspension Device Patents (Class 482/143)
  • Patent number: 7811202
    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: November 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Redcord AS
    Inventor: Tore Planke
  • Patent number: 7780587
    Abstract: A support harness and an unweighting assembly for at least partially unweighting a patient during rehabilitative exercises. The unweighting assembly including a support harness configured to generally extend around at least a portion of the patient, a support structure for supporting the support harness, and at least three connectors. Each of the connectors includes a first end coupled to the support structure and a second end coupled to the support harness at one of at least three connection points so that the patient is able to be supported in a crawling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Crawl-To-Walk, LLC
    Inventors: William N Thornton, Chester M. Zuziak
  • Publication number: 20100160127
    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: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Marco Bracci
  • Publication number: 20100144504
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise apparatus, particularly a sling suspension device, for performing gymnastical and training body exercises, comprising a carrying device (A) for holding a decompression stick (13) which is optionally pivotable about a vertical axis and at which are arranged suspension devices (24, 25) for slings (S), belts and/or ropes (28) for positioning and/or moving body parts and/or for putting on loads, characterized in that the decompression stick (13) is at least partially reinforced in the vertical direction and that it supports transverse bars (11; 11a . . . 11g) which can be displaceably adjusted and rotated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Olaf Krell
  • Publication number: 20100144501
    Abstract: An articulating exercise harness system includes a harness to secure a user's wrist and a handle that is selectively gripped by the user. A bracket is pivotally connected to the handle at a proximal end of the bracket. The harness is adjustably along the user's forearm relative to the position of bracket. A weight engagement member is rotatably connected to the bracket. The bracket is rotatable relative to the handle and the weight engagement member is rotatable relative to the bracket. Because the weight engagement member can rotate forward and backward on the bracket, relative to the handle, the invention can be used to both push and pull exercise weights or other loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Nahome Berhanu
  • Patent number: 7722514
    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: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Paine, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7717837
    Abstract: Facilitating exercise using easy to transport and easy to assemble components and, when assembled, providing a portable apparatus on which a human can engage in a wide variety of exercises. Support elements including vertical components are supported on bases. Collars slideably insert over the support elements and further include bar supports for receiving one or more stabilizers. The stabilizers join the support elements and the bases forming a system base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip Florczak
  • Publication number: 20100113235
    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: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: Reebok International Ltd.
    Inventors: Leslie Calvagne, Yumi Lee, William Liteplo, Timothy Higgins, John Fiegener, Daniel Armstrong, Michael Tinstman, Jonathan Levy
  • Patent number: 7704200
    Abstract: The invention concerns an exercise apparatus, especially for exercising the back musculature of a user (10) with a support surface (110) to accommodate the user (10) along the longitudinal axis (30). The reclining area (112) of the support surface (110) is largely formed by a number of transverse elements (120, 120a) arranged in succession on the longitudinal axis (30), which accommodates the user (10) preferably in the prone position, the transverse elements (120, 120a) being mounted to pivot around the longitudinal axis (30) to execute a see-saw movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Mehrdad Rahimi
  • Patent number: 7670271
    Abstract: A hanging fitness device for exercising abdominals includes a flatbed upper arm platform assembly having an arm cushion, vinyl cushion covering, two rubber non-skid floor stands, and a vertical stabilizer bar with an opening to connect to a vertical handle extender and a connector rod. The fitness device includes a safety bar assembly including a small opening that connects the safety bar to the flatbed upper arm platform assembly by a transverse member. The fitness device also includes a handle extender assembly with small vertical round openings on all four sides and horizontal insertion round bar with an inner V spring button. A hand grip unit assembly is configured to slidably receive the horizontal insertion bar of the handle extender, the insertion bar being locked therein by way of an inner V spring button. The device also includes a top hook assembly with a connection assembly to connect a height girder member of the hand grip unit assembly and the connector rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen Brian Finch
  • Patent number: 7666126
    Abstract: A balancing device to assist a patient in exercising and rehabilitating balance. The balancing device includes a stationary support structure including an overhead support and a plurality of upright supports, and a suspended platform hanging from the overhead support by first and second suspending members. The platform is stabilized by at least two elastic supports having a first end attached proximate a portion of the periphery of the platform on opposite sides of the bisecting pivot line, and a second end attached to one of the plurality of upright supports. The patients standing on the platform can practice balancing and adjustments in a pivoting motion, and/or in ether a longitudinal and/or lateral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas F. Rempe
  • Publication number: 20100022363
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus which is a multiple functions exercise apparatus. One function of the exercise apparatus allows the user taking chin-up exercise substantially solely by his fingers. The exercise apparatus comprises a frame, two guiding mechanisms respectively connected to the left and right sides of the frame, a load unit positioned on the frame, a cable-and-pulley device connected to the frame and linked the load unit and the guiding mechanisms, and the cable-and-pulley device further having two pulling portions engaged with respective guiding mechanisms, at least an exercise accessory operable connected to at least one pulling portion, at least two climbing-holds mounted on the frame for the user gripping thereon and taking chin-up exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mrako A. Fenster, Hai Jun Zhu
  • Patent number: 7575541
    Abstract: A spine stretch machine, comprising: an inverting part and a back stretch part. The inverting part has a platform allowing a person to lie on it, a inversion motor to move the platform from horizontal to vertical, a feet anchor which is extendable driven by a leg adjustment motor, thus making the body upside down to stretch the spine. A safety release device in the inverting part can move the platform back to horizontal when the inversion motor is broken. The back stretch part has a back press unit which protrudes from the platform to press the back of the body and a second motor-driven unit which can drive the back press unit to roll back and forth alone the spine to massage the back, thus making the spine flexible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7455634
    Abstract: A freestanding exercise device for a person is disclosed. A stand adjustably supports a generally U-shaped support frame that includes a back rest and a pair of support arms that each terminate in an adjustable hand grip member from which a plurality of ring assemblies are suspended. A pair of footrests are adjustably fixed to base. A high-station assembly includes a high station support member fixed to the stand. A lateral support and a traction bar support arm are fixed to the high station support member, and a traction bar is fixed to the traction bar support arm. The lateral support is fixed at either end thereof to a ring support arm from each of which one ring assembly is suspended. In use, the person may adjust the height of the support frame and the back rest support, and then position himself within the exercise device by resting his back against the back rest, resting his arms on the support arms, gripping the hand grip members, and then performing leg lift exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Inventor: Carl Barniak
  • Publication number: 20080227610
    Abstract: Disclosed is a spine stretch machine, comprising: an inverting part and a back stretch part. The inverting part has a platform allowing a person to lie on it, a inversion motor to move the platform from horizontal to vertical, a feet anchor which is extendable driven by a leg adjustment motor, thus making the body upside down to stretch the spine. A safety release device in the inverting part can move the platform back to horizontal when the inversion motor is broken. The back stretch part has a back press unit which protrudes from the platform to press the back of the body and a second motor-driven unit which can drive the back press unit to roll back and forth alone the spine to massage the back, thus making the spine flexible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7399260
    Abstract: An ankle clamp assembly for an inversion table has a stationary frame, an adjustable frame and an operating device. The stationary frame has a longitudinal beam and a transverse beam. The longitudinal beam is connected to the inversion table and has a recess, a latch rod and a mounting arm. The mounting arm is connected to the longitudinal beam and has a stationary latch hole. The adjustable frame is movably connected to the stationary frame and has an adjusting arm and a pressing arm. The adjusting arm extends through the mounting arm and has multiple elongated latch holes. The operating device is connected to the stationary frame, engages the adjustable frame and has a spring, a handle and a latch lever. The latch lever is attached transversely to the handle, extends through the recess into an elongated latch hole corresponding to the stationary latch hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Lifegear Taiwan Ltd.
    Inventor: Shi-Lin Chen
  • Patent number: 7361128
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus has a front frame, a rear frame and a seat assembly. The rear frame is connected to the front frame and the seat assembly is mounted pivotally between the front frame and the rear frame. The seat assembly has a seat back, a seat, a leg holder, a front connecting rod and a lower connecting rod. When a user is in an inverted position, the user's body is stretched and pressure on the spine can be eliminated. With the relative movement between the seat back and the seat and the relative movement between the seat and the leg holder, the torso and femoral muscles of the user can be fully exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Chih-Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 7318791
    Abstract: A device for exercising and strengthening the muscles of the spinal column and vertebrae joints and for the spine recreation, designed taking in account that our backbone bio kinematics operate better moving in the horizontal position based on “four legs”, comprises: a bearing framework with fore and rear pivot points, two hand striding units and two foot striding units pivotally mounted to corresponding fore and rear pivot points and depending downwardly therefrom; a kinematic transmission connecting the left and right pairs of the striding units with possibility to swing the hand and foot striding units in opposite direction, provides the user with a steady balance and allows to imitate a natural walking or running-type motions with the extremities based on the foot and hand supports while keeping his/her torso suspended freely above the foot and hand supports and with the spine in a substantially free horizontal position whereby the only support for the users body is the foot and hand supports; The
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Zinnoor Akhmetov
  • Patent number: 7288052
    Abstract: An exercise device for strengthening the abdominal muscles and the arm muscles of a user, comprising a T-shaped, tension loaded press bar that selectively telescopes within an elongated shaft when pressed by the hands of the user. The press bar is mechanically linked to the shaft by a stretchable band having an equilibrium relaxed conformation and also having a stretched conformation. When the user presses down upon the press bar, this causes the press bar to substantially retract into the shaft and simultaneously causes the rubber band to be stretched from its relaxed conformation, thereby simultaneously exercising the muscles of the user. The exercise device may be selectively folded upon three hinges, thereby providing an exercise device that is easily carried, shipped, and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Vicklyn Guillaume
  • Patent number: 7255666
    Abstract: A Multi-Function Swing Apparatus for Total Body Exercise, Stretching, Yoga, Lumbo-Pelvic Traction, Gymnastics, Inversion Therapy, Therapeutic Rehab, Spinal Manipulation, Partner Play and Sky-chair consisting of a nylon fabric swing device having multiple flexible arm member attachments with omni-directional range of motion, a removable foam cushion insert, a metal trapeze pull-up bar, dual extension springs, and two height adjuster straps made of webbing with multiple loops, all of which is suspended from a swivel hook unit attached to a portable structural support stand made of metal tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Anthony J. Cardenas
  • Patent number: 7238148
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a base and an apex. A least one pivot is connected to the frame for supporting a swinging arm. The opposite end of the arm supports a seat for an exercising athlete, and optional weights. The frame supports a force plate opposed to the seat. The seat and the force plate are connected by elastic members, such as bands, that bias the seat toward the force plate. The athlete develops reversal strength by extending his legs to bound from the force plate, then stopping the resulting forward motion at a predetermined joint position before rebounding again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Louis J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7125371
    Abstract: An adjustable apparatus for performing bodyweight exercises comprises a pair of side frames. At least one pair of handles projects in forwards directions from the side frames. Handles in positions on the side frames allow different bodyweight exercises to be performed. A pendulous member for supporting the lower part of the body of a user in some exercises is suspended in the opening between the side frames. This may be raised and lowered between and secured at different height positions. Some embodiments may further comprise cushioned members at the base for the user's comfort. Additional detachable cross bars and a body support strap may be attached to the handles or structure of some embodiments to allow further variation in exercises. Further embodiments may allow folding or collapsing for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Alasdair David Henderson
  • Patent number: 7081073
    Abstract: An inversion exerciser includes a foot retaining device having a beam attached to a base to secure feet of user to the base, and having two fixed foot supports, a housing secured to the beam, a curved rack secured in the housing and having a number of teeth. A lever has one end rotatably attached to the housing and includes two movable foot supports movable toward and away from the fixed foot supports of the beam. A pawl is pivotally secured in the lever, and rotatable to engage with the teeth of the rack, and to selectively lock the lever to the beam, and a controlling device may control the pawl to engage with and to be disengaged from the teeth of the rack. A safety lock device is pivotally secured in the lever, and includes a tongue to selectively engage with the teeth of the rack and to selectively lock the lever to the beam by gravity force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Lawerence C. Smith
  • Patent number: 7044896
    Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a user selected resistance from nearly zero resistance to the user's full body weight, the ability to easily adjust between exercises and between users, and the ability to balance the device between reconfigurations to provide for ease-of-use. The device includes an inelastic adjustable length member with two arms and a grip at both ends, and a centrally located anchor that provides for a distribution of the length between the arms. In one embodiment, the exercise device is compact and can be removably attached to a door frame. When grabbing each of the grips and uniformly pulling away from the anchor, the arms of the device center on the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Randal A. Hetrick
  • Patent number: 6929478
    Abstract: The disclosure and claims are generally related to a modified sports board, such as a modified skateboard operatively attached to a frame structure. The frame structure is configured to react the multi-directional dynamic forces of a user performing aerobatic maneuvers and related stunts. Proximately located near the frame structure can be a platform where the sports board may be initially mounted. The platform may have a plurality of starting levels or tiers accessible by a standard ladder or steps. The platform may be integrally connected to the frame structure or unattached. Coupled to the platform or in close proximity thereof may be stunt devices, such as rails and ramps. The rails and ramps provide a user with obstacles to maneuver around or grind across.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventors: Monte B. Spencer, Jonathan W. Moore
  • Patent number: 6811522
    Abstract: An exercise with traction device comprising a frame holding a seat above the floor that has a resistance loaded backrest for the purpose of rehabilitating atrophied spinal support muscle through progressive resistance exercise while the spine is under pain alleviating traction. The backrest is resistance loaded for both traction, and extension resistance or flexion resistance. This makes needed exercise for those who are hindered from such therapy by spinal compressive related pain. The exercise resistance is transmitted to the patient via a horizontal axis backrest, and can be weighted either positively for back resistance, or negatively for abdominal resistance, at the same time traction is applied from the backrest suspension system applying resistance to the user attached to it in the direction that decompresses the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew James McQuinn
  • Patent number: 6790194
    Abstract: Health equipment for dragging the lumbar with the trunk of the human body securely supported is provided. The trunk support is bendable only inwardly, and holds and supports the trunk of the human body. Since the trunk support is placed around the human body and enfolds from the area below the costae to above the pelvis, the human body is securely supported, whereby lumbago treatment can be carried out with the patient suspended in the air. Since the lumbar is dragged with the weight of the lower part of the patient's body, there is no possibility that the lumbar is dragged with excessive weight The leg hanging unit is a device to hang the legs of the patient. By using this leg hanging unit, so called mobilization may be carried out with the lower back portion suspended in the air, thereby increasing effectiveness of lumbago treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Protec House Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Katane, Hideaki Sakitsu
  • Patent number: 6749548
    Abstract: A restraint and exercise device is provided to treat acute or chronic mechanical pain, particularly lumbopelvic and/or leg pain, and to restore and/or increase range of motion in suitable users. The device is particularly useful during exercise. The device may contain a restraint, such as two straps, connected to a support structure. The straps help restrain a portion of a person's body such as the pelvic region. The portion of the person's body may be restrained in a substantially pain-free position so as to reduce the pain that would otherwise be felt during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: BackProject Corporation
    Inventor: Jonathan Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20030153438
    Abstract: A body weight support system that monitors and controls the level of support force within a stepcycle to result in normative center of mass movement and ground reaction forces. The system comprises a harness connected to a lift line which in turn is connected to a means for advancing and retracting the lift line. A control system is configured to monitor load on the cable and to regulate lift line advancement and retraction in response to load information. The support system can be combined with a treadmill for locomotor training of a subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Keith Gordon, Bjorn Svendesen, Susan J. Harkema, Sam El-Alami
  • Patent number: 6592502
    Abstract: Aerobic rhythmic running exercise (RRE) is an exercise mode wherein a horizontally disposed participant elevates and lowers his or her limbs alternately in a striding manner against dissipative loading provided by enabling RRE apparatus. RRE comprises safe aerobic exercise for cardiovascularly handicapped heart patients and other participants by substantially supporting or balancing the weight of the limb groups one against the other during the alternate limb elevation and lowering. It is an observed fact that the blood pressure remains near resting values during such aerobic RRE. It has also been observed that RRE allows an athlete to preferentially develop fast twitch muscles useful for enabling improved running speed. Stationary RRE apparatus comprises a supporting tripod structure, and pulley supported leg and arm supporting rope lines coupled to leg and arm drive belts that are, in turn, coupled to leg and arm drive sprockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: RLE Corporation
    Inventor: Edward H. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6468192
    Abstract: A frame for body stretching exercises comprising a pair of U-shaped tubular legs hinged together at their open ends to form a support with their bight portions opposite from their open ends, detent means for limiting the separation of the legs when they are opened by spreading their bight portions apart, an upper generally U-shaped frame hinged to the legs at their open ends, and body supports extending across the legs and across the frame. Detent means are included to maintain the upper frame in co-planar alignment with one of the legs when the upper frame is extended, the frame may be released and swung to lie substantially co-extensively with the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Fred Doerscheln
  • Patent number: 6443879
    Abstract: A health machine for enabling an user to exercise upside down includes a support having a pair of circular seats on the top, a top bar having a pair disks at two ends rotatably engaged with the pair of circular seats and a massage assembly secured to the top bar. So that the massage assembly may rotate clockwise for about 90 degrees to facilitate the upper body of a user to hang upside down on massage in order to relax his vertebra and to improve the blood circulation in his body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Yi Chen
  • Patent number: 6422982
    Abstract: A chiropractic exerciser device designed to permit a person to hang upside-down from the waist or hips. The chiropractic exerciser consists of three main parts or elements that include handles, a main body including a hang bar, and an upright hang-bar. The first element are handles connected to a step-up bar and inner legs which facilitate additional stretching and exercising positions. The step-up bar feature allows individuals of any height to use the device. The second element is the main body or base, which includes the hang bar that permits a person to hang upside down. The third element is the upright hang-bar which is designed for pull-ups and hanging thereby allowing the vertebrae to straighten and re-align. The upright hang-bar can be used as a static upright hang-bar permitting standard chin-ups, or it can be used with a spring mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Anthony F. Retel
  • Patent number: 6390952
    Abstract: The invention provides improved climbing devices and structures for use in mobile and fixed climbing installations. Modular climbing towers are generally assembled from panels having lateral curves by fastening upper and lower flanges of the panels together. The panels and flanges are integrally molded from fiberglass, and act as a monocoque structure. The climbing surface is on the radially outward portion of the partially or fully enclosed tower, thereby increasing the number of climbers that can safely be accommodated on a climbing surface of a given width. The invention also provides belaying devices for safely supporting a climber at the end of a flexible member such as a cable, rope, or the like. These belaying devices generally draw in the flexible member as the climber climbs. When the climber falls or completes the climbing route, the belay device supports the climber's weight, slowly and safely lowering the climber down to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Extreme Engineering LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6196949
    Abstract: The present invention, in certain embodiments, a portable structure for supporting infants for the purpose of training and assisting infants to walk. The structure comprises a frame, generally U-shaped at the top with at least one J-shaped leg element being attached to the frame, with the J-shaped leg elements being parallel to each other, and with the J-shaped leg elements being padded. The frame may be made of a light-weight material, such as aluminum or steel tubing, wood or plastic, and the padding is made of a flexible, yet durable impact-absorbing material. The structure may further include a wheeled extension member attached to either the top of the frame or to one or more of the J-shaped leg elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: Ruben Rodarte
  • Patent number: 6149560
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a mat rotating device provided on the upper end of a base frame constituting a skeleton of the exercise device and adapted to rotate a mat frame rotatably mounted on the base frame through a desired angle when it is energized by electric power externally applied thereto, and a foot holder moving device provided on an extension member extending longitudinally from the mat frame and adapted to move foot holders when it is energized by electric power externally applied thereto. By the foot holder moving device, the foot holders move between an ankle holding position where the foot holders are positioned near support bars mounted to the extension member, respectively, to hold the ankle portions of the user therebetween and a release position where the foot holders are spaced away from the support bars, respectively, to allow the ankle portions of the user to be released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Hyung Jun Kim
  • Patent number: 5971902
    Abstract: The present invention resides in an exercise apparatus for individuals with chronic back pain. The apparatus comprises an elongated base frame that is rectangular in configuration and has a U-shaped front portion and a T-shaped back portion. An inverted Y-shaped, lower support shaft having three members with rectangular configurations is removably attached to the base frame. An elongated, rectangular shaped upper support shaft attached to an angle adjustment cam is attached to the inverted Y-shaped lower support shaft with rotation and locking means. The upper support shaft contains, near the bottom portion thereof, a restraint stand having foot boards and lower extremity restraint. The upper support shaft is hollow on the inside and is slidably connected to a telescoping pelvic restraint stand, which contains hip pads, pelvic restraints and bicycle like handle bars near the top portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventors: Virgil L. Robertson, Joe L. Verna, Eric A. Pierra
  • Patent number: 5971901
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise apparatus which utilizes gravity to create a gentle tension upon the lower back. This gentle tension is used in combination with stretching and toning exercises to strengthen and rehabilitate the lower back. The present invention further provides an attached vibratory device attached to the exercise apparatus. The attached vibratory device is used in conjunction with lower back exercises and stimulates the muscle tissue and blood circulation. The apparatus of the present invention comprise the primary structures: a body support structure, a leg support structure and a base connected to both the body support structure and the leg support structure. The apparatus of the present invention further provides for a multitude of different positions in which the therapeutic stretches and exercises may be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: George B. Shaw
  • Patent number: 5947875
    Abstract: A doorway exerciser is provided for exercising a child positioned therein. The doorway exerciser includes a mounting assembly, a lower hanger, a shock cord, and a seat unit. The mounting assembly is adapted for removable attachment with a doorway framework and is formed to include a passageway therein. The lower hanger is formed to include a passageway therein. The shock cord has opposite ends and an extensible center portion extending between the opposite ends. One end of the cord extends in the passageway of the mounting assembly. An opposite second end of each cord extends in the passageway of the lower hanger so that the lower hanger is suspended from the mounting assembly. The seat unit is suspended from the lower hanger. The mounting assembly has a first clamp member including a catch and a core and an opposing second clamp member which includes a catch and a core. The cores of the first and second clamp members are coupled together for pivotable movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Cosco, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Cone, Michael S. Rosko
  • Patent number: 5704882
    Abstract: A rebound-type exercise device is provided which allows an individual to perform a sit and bounce exercises. The exercise device includes a support frame which supports a seat assembly by means of four springs. The support frame includes a pair of laterally spaced apart side support frames which are interconnected by a head tube. Each side support frame includes a generally horizontal ground-engaging base tube, a rearwardly disposed, generally vertical strong tube extending upwardly from the base tube, and a generally L-shaped arm which interconnects a front portion of the base tube with the upper end of the strong tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Allison Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold E. Coates, Judith I. Coates
  • Patent number: 5603676
    Abstract: A crawl swim exerciser includes a substantially horizontal elevated beam supported on and between spaced-apart head and foot supports, supported above a supporting substrate supportable of lower ends of the head and foot supports, with a roller mechanism being supported on and rollable along the elevated beam. Supported on the roller mechanism and slung below the beam is a support harness positioned to intermittently suspend a person's horizontally-positioned body lengthwise in a swim-position substantially lengthwise parallel with the beam while leaving legs and arms of a suspended person substantially free for making swimming leg kicks and swimming arm strokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Cymbalisty
  • Patent number: 5540643
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating traction in a user back and is securable to an apparatus support structure having an apparatus engaging rim and an apparatus upright support face includes an elongate suspension member having a first member end and a second member end, a hook structure extending from the first member end in a first lateral direction for engaging the engaging rim, a support arm secured to and extending from the suspension member in a second lateral direction substantially opposite from the first lateral direction to project away from the upright support face, so that downward loading on the arm member causes the suspension member to pivot on the hook structure to abut and find support against the upright support face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventor: Raymond E. Fontaine
  • Patent number: 5468199
    Abstract: A playground apparatus (10) for children to slide across while hanging by their hands is disclosed. The apparatus includes a support structure (12, 16, and 20) holding multiple rails (18), preferably five, horizontally above the ground and above the heads of the children. The rails are generally parallel one to another and include gentle curves along their length. Handhold assemblies (22) are slidably coupled to each of the rails and include two grips (40) on each assembly for users' hands. The grips are disposed below the rails and the handhold assemblies include partitions (46) between the rails and the grips to protect the children's hands from the rails. The handhold assemblies include channels (44) in which the rails are received and allowed to slide. The channels are wider in their middle portions than at their ends to accommodate the curves in the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: BigToys, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell L. Keeler, John M. Underbrink
  • Patent number: 5403253
    Abstract: A freestanding exercise and gymnastics training machine allows improved control and balance when doing ring exercises. The exercise and gymnastics training machine comprises a first block and tackle pulley system and a second block and tack system which together suspend a body harness from a freestanding support frame. Accordingly, a user of average strength wearing the body harness can utilize a mechanical advantage afforded by the block and tackle systems to lift and/or support his/her body weight to remain at least partially suspended from the freestanding support frame. While suspended or partially suspended, the user can perform various exercises to improve conditioning, to increase strength and/or to do gymnastics training. In some embodiments, the exercise machine further comprises a footrest attachment, a bench attachment, a pull-up bar attachment, and/or a parallel bar attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Mitchell J. Gaylord
  • Patent number: 5389055
    Abstract: A specially designed foldable exercise apparatus is provided for doing pull-ups or chin-ups while the heels of the feet remain on the floor. It includes a chrome-plated steel base with welded vertical bar supports extendable upward on each side of the base, with an uninterrupted space provided between the vertical bar supports for the torso of user's body to be placed therebetween. The vertical supports extend upward with one on each side, approximately midway between a front edge and a rear edge of the base, so that the base extends outward in both directions from the vertical support bars. The pull-up supports are fabricated with apertures or notched vertical supports or hooks on the exterior for placement therein of a horizontal support bar which is movable. The support bar is preferably fabricated of tubular steel with rubber caps on each end to prevent slipping off the support bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: Robert B. Gangloff
  • Patent number: 5242342
    Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneous isometric and aerobic exercising having a base, a vertical upright, vertically adjustable handlebars on the upright, and a weighted cylinder not aligned vertically with the handlebars to be rotated with the feet while supporting the body from the handlebars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: Bi-Robic Conditioning Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: John Silverman
  • Patent number: 5186702
    Abstract: A sit-up device having substantially the capability to support all types of sit-up exercises is disclosed. The device comprises a mounting base generally for the purpose of securing it to a fixture during use. Another aspect of the device is the adjustable section used to control the horizontal and vertical position of the feet restraining bar. When installed for use, the feet restraining bar remains parallel with the floor. The adjustability is produced by sliding motions between a lever and a base member which allows for greater vertical and horizontal adjustments. Hence the device can support all types of sit-up exercises postures. The mounting base of this device can be secured to any flat surface such as a door structure, house-hold and office furniture, smooth concrete, wood or metallic surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Charles U. Amanze
  • Patent number: 5180161
    Abstract: An exercise machine is provided with a pair of vertically adjustable support posts having a rod extending thereacross. A support plate for receiving the upper back portion of a user is fixedly secured to the rod, while a lower support plate is interconnected with the upper support plate through a universal joint which may be selectively locked into position or released to allow the lower support plate to swivel with respect to the upper plate. An appropriate gear reducer is connected to the rod to allow the rod to be rotated to position the user in a desired orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Inventor: Brett M. Jordan
  • Patent number: 5105803
    Abstract: A device and method for transferring stress from a lumbar spine to a rib cage includes an abdomen surrounding member and first and second support bars cooperatively connected to the sides of the abdomen surrounding member. The abdomen surrounding member is secured in an engaging position and a base support is adapted and configured to receive the first and second support bars. The device may also provide the additon feature to gain physically beneficial exercise in conjunction with gravity traction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Spinal Designs International, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles V. Burton