Abstract: An exercise repetition sensor comprises an electricity generator, such as an electricity generator, which is coupled to an exercise system, where the electricity generator is capable of sensing exercise movements of any size or intensity on the exercise system. The electricity generator can be based on a number of electrical, magnetic, or optical sensing principles. For example, an electricity generator comprising an electricity generator includes a spindle that is coupled to one or more parts that move in proportion to an applied force. The voltage-generator generates an electrical current as the spindle moves, and sends the electrical current to an electronic display interface. In one embodiment, the voltage-generator sends a positive direct current through one of two circuit wires to the electronic console, such that the electronic console can immediately identify that the user has performed an exercise repetition.

Abstract: A mobile unit configured to train an athlete is disclosed. The mobile unit includes multiple sensors, communication devices and a mobility system. The mobile unit executes one or more training paths to simulate chasing associated with various sports. The mobile unit is capable of determining its own location and the location of the athlete throughout a training session, as well as other information. The mobile unit is configured to adapt the training path to stress weaknesses of the athlete with respect to various types of athletic skills.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a system for monitoring movement of a user while performing an exercise includes a position monitor, a receiver, and a display generator. The position monitor is capable of generating positional information based on a movement of a user. The movement is associated with performance of an exercise by the user. The position monitor is further capable of wirelessly transmitting the positional information to a remote component. The receiver is capable of receiving the positional information from the position monitor and communicating the positional information to the display generator. The display generator is capable of providing, based on the positional information, sensory feedback relating to the performance of the exercise by the user.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: A service tracking and alerting system for fitness equipment (18) includes one or more subsystems of multiple control servers (20) (ICS) to gather real time information from one or more fitness equipment units (22, 24) (FEU) via wireless connection and store such information in a temporary database (25). Multiple ICSs are linked to a remotely located accumulated data storage unit or silo (26) having a permanent storage database (27). One or more silos (26) and their corresponding ICSs are controlled, accessed, and interrogated through an enterprise level platform (32). Service alert messages may be generated and sent to one or more recipients if an FEU experiences a significant service event. Also, a reporting interface (190) allows users to access, enter, update and/or alter, service usage, warranty, and other information from the data storage units (26) and ICSs (20).

Abstract: An exercise machine has a universal holder that is adapted to facilitate communication between the machine and a variety of portable electronic device configurations. The universal holder can be formed of a material that is generally transparent to infrared signals, but that is generally optically opaque.

Abstract: In a training control method using biofeedback, and an apparatus using the method, the method includes setting a target exercise zone for a user based on a bio-signal from the user, the target exercise zone including a range of indices and comparing a current index obtained from the bio-signal with the target exercise zone in time units in an exercise training mode and providing at least one of positive biofeedback information, negative biofeedback information, and a warning message to the user according to a result of the comparison.

Abstract: An exercise and performance evaluation apparatus includes a revolving belt on which a subject can perform bipedal locomotion, a harness for securing the subject at a fixed position relative to the apparatus, a means for measuring the force applied by the subject to the belt, and a means for monitoring and controlling the velocity of the belt. The harnessing of the subject allows monitoring of the velocity as a function of time. An overhead harness may be used to alter the effective mass of the subject. The velocity of the belt may be controlled by a motor and brake system, where the motor may be uni-directional or bi-directional.

Abstract: An exercise device having position verification feedback capabilities. In one embodiment, the exercise device generally includes a base unit defining a support surface, at least two position sensors arranged along a sensing plane relative to the support surface for detecting the presence of the user along the sensing plane, and a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine the user's position relative to the sensing plane. In another embodiment, the exercise device is configured to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In a further embodiment, an exercise device is provided that is capable of measuring one or more parameters associated with a user's vertical jumping ability.

Abstract: An exercise device including a support surface and at least two position sensors arranged along a sensing plane relative to the support surface, with the position sensors adapted to detect a presence of a user along the sensing plane. The exercise device further includes a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine a position of the user relative to the sensing plane. The controller has a closed loop feedback mode adapted to process at least one input parameter provided by the user, and to further measure a performance criteria of the user related to the input parameter and to provide feedback to the user indicative of a measurement of the performance criteria.

Abstract: A method for providing a feedback-controlled exercise routine for a user by providing a predetermined sequence of movements for the user; sensing movements of the user during the sequence; measuring data related to the sensed movements; and evaluating the data to determine whether to repeat or modify the routine. The method can also include storing the user's exercise routine on a user key, displaying exercise instructions to the user from the user key to illustrate the sequence of movements, with the evaluation of the data including modifying the displayed exercise instructions, and storing an updated user exercise routine after successful completion of the routine, wherein the updated routine includes the modified exercise instructions.

Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise-data management system, which comprises a wristband 8 including an IC chip 7 recording therein unique information for authenticating a participant, a studio gate 3 set up in a studio and adapted to wirelessly receive and read the unique information recorded in the IC chip, and an exercise-data management server apparatus 4. The studio gate 3 is operable, when the unique information is read, to transmit information indicating the read to the exercise-data management server apparatus 4.

Abstract: A method and system provides a customized exercise (conditioning) program for the user using a computer. A plurality of different measurements (parameters) are input using the computer, and based on these measurements, a computer program generates a customized exercise program for the user. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the customized exercise program may be specific to conditioning the body or a particular body part of the user, or conditioning the user for a particular sport where both exercise program embodiments may include an optional nutrition plan, or alternatively the nutrition plan may generated independently. Advantageously, the computer program provides an efficient, customized conditioning (exercise) program for the user that enables a great amount of flexibility and convenience for the user.

Abstract: Circuits, methods, and apparatus that allow sports or other equipment, such as gym or other cardio equipment, to write data to a media player. Examples further provide the uploading of this data to a computer and third-party website. To monitor progress, the third-party website can be used to track workout data over time. The third party-website can also collect data from other users, which is particularly useful for providing a competitive environment. This data can then be graphically displayed in various ways to provide encouragement.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is described herein. The exercise apparatus can have a body forming a first yoke. The first yoke includes a first longitudinal channel extending therethrough and a first slide member is positioned in the first channel. The first slide member is slidable therein in a reciprocating manner and has an abdominal engagement end extending from the channel. The exercise apparatus can further include a second yoke pivotally attached to the body and has a second longitudinal channel extending therethrough. A second slide member is positioned in the second channel and is slidable therein in a reciprocating manner. The second slide member has an upper body engagement end extending from the second channel. The exercise apparatus can include a vibration unit operable to cause all or portions of the exercise apparatus to vibrate.

Abstract: An exercise device having position verification feedback capabilities. In one embodiment, the exercise device generally includes a base unit defining a support surface, at least two position sensors arranged along a sensing plane relative to the support surface for detecting the presence of the user along the sensing plane, and a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine the user's position relative to the sensing plane. In another embodiment, the exercise device is configured to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In a further embodiment, an exercise device is provided that is capable of measuring one or more parameters associated with a user's vertical jumping ability.

Abstract: A personal training device (10) adapted to assist a user in reaching performance goals, navigating, and accumulating performance statistics. In a preferred embodiment, the device broadly comprises a housing (10); an attachment mechanism (30); a GPS component (40); a user interface (50), including an input portion (52) and an output portion (54); a processor (60), including a timer (62) and a memory element (64); a data interface (70), including an input portion (72) and an output portion (74); an audio component (80); and a power supply (90). The device (10) is adapted to store goal information, monitor performance using GPS-derived data, and communicate performance information.

Abstract: Systems and methods that provide two-way communication between an exercise device and a computer device. A computer device and an exercise device employ different protocol formats and communicate through a translator device, which includes a microcontroller specifically designed to translate data or signals deliverable by different communication protocols. The exercise device, the computer device, or a user at either the exercise or computer device may initiate the communication.

Abstract: Methods, systems, devices and computer program products are provided for providing interactive activity programs to a user of a portable electronic device. The portable electronic device is connected to a data network using a wireless communications network. Interactive activity programs received from the data network are provided to the portable electronic device. The interactive activity programs are associated with geographic locations.

Abstract: A bicycle electronic apparatus has a port, in particular a USB port, usable for connecting a removable mass storage device, a computer or other devices. In particular a fast and secure transfer of journey data, apparatus status data, diagnostics data, configuration data etc. stored in the bicycle electronic apparatus is thus allowed.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium preferably including the Internet that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a hand and finger-therapy device to align, separate, and stretch the user's fingers and hands. The device includes a finger separator that is sized and shaped to be positioned between a user's adjacent fingers to manipulate and/or separate the fingers, thereby providing hand and finger-therapy.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a dual-shaft hinge module for an interactive training apparatus. The dual-shaft hinge module comprises a first shaft assembly and a second shaft assembly, which orthogonally intersect and are positioned at a shaft seat. The first shaft assembly and the second shaft assembly can be controlled by a main post to rotated clockwise or anticlockwise against axes thereof. A first sensing and the second sensing units sense rotational directions and angles of the first and the second shaft assemblies to generate signals accordingly. The signals are then transmitted to an interactive device.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing exercise devices with motivational programming. The programming includes motivational content and control signals, synchronized with the motivational content, for controlling operation of the exercise device. The motivational content includes audio and/or video designed to simulate a group exercise setting and optionally instructional and educational content for the benefit of a user. The control signals can be carried in wireless carrier signals and can include bytes of data that define changes to the value of one or more operating parameters of an exercise device. The control signals can control one or more operating parameters of one or more exercise devices, whether at once, or device specific.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for improving posture, including a housing, a power supply disposed within the housing; a first communication element coupled to the housing, an actuation mechanism coupled to the housing, where the actuation mechanism selectively electrically couples the first communication element to the power supply, and a clip coupled to the housing and engageable with a belt. The clip may include a substantially thin wire and the housing may be sized such that engagement of the clip with the belt positions a substantial portion of the housing behind the belt and out of view.

Abstract: A control device for receivers of information based on the propagation of the electromagnetic field, particularly for television sets, comprises an input interface (20) for receiving analogue and digital television signals (100, 110); tuning means (30) for selecting an analogue channel (100a) or a digital channel (110a); a decoding circuit (40); an output interface (50) for connecting the device (1) to a television set (10) and sending a main signal (120) incorporating content to be displayed; a selection block (60) for selectively connecting to the output interface (50) an analogue output (31b, 32b) of the tuning means (30) or an output (40b) of the decoding circuit (40); a processing unit (70) connected to the tuning means (30) and for sending a first signal (130) representing a channel to be selected; the processing unit (70) being connected to the selection block (60) to send a second signal (140) and identify which signal must be sent to the output interface (50); the processing unit (70) is controlled b

Abstract: A method for integrating and managing data is provided that includes interacting with an end user via a music and health component combination device, the device including: a health component that is operable to track data by the user and a music module operable to play music for the user. The device further includes a memory and a processor operable to convert data from the health component into one or more metrics based on data received from the memory. In other embodiments, the device can display a category of music, such as an album or a play list. The device also includes a dimming function that allows certain parameters being displayed by the device to be highlighted, emphasized, or deemphasized.

Abstract: An exercise device having position verification feedback capabilities. In one embodiment, the exercise device generally includes a base unit defining a support surface, at least two position sensors arranged along a sensing plane relative to the support surface for detecting the presence of the user along the sensing plane, and a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine the user's position relative to the sensing plane. In another embodiment, the exercise device is configured to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In a further embodiment, an exercise device is provided that is capable of measuring one or more parameters associated with a user's vertical jumping ability.

Abstract: A display device of a body building machine, comprising: a control portion having as plurality of buttons for controlling the setting of the setting of the processing and display unit; the processing and display unit having a display panel which can display objects by various colors; the processing and display unit serves to display various information in exercise; the display panel displaying the various states of various items by different colors; tech item and state can be represented independent for alerting the users. In the display panel, the set data is represented by a first color; when the data is changed at an initial state, a second color different from the first color is used to display the data. The processing and display unit displays the data about exercise time, exercise speed, pulses, and heat consumption.

Abstract: A system, method, and device for recording and tracking resistance training parameters in connection with a resistance training workout. A specially configured portable recording device has a very compact user interface having an input device with very few inputs. A user may record resistance training parameters directly on the recording device both quickly and easily with few and simple keystrokes, resulting in an improved recording process. A personal trainer or strength coach may track the workouts of multiple exercisers with increased convenience. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recording device is provided in the body of a sport watch.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: A health club exercise records system in which members to the health club are given a handheld device that is pre-programmed by the trainer or health club operator to record different exercise activities. The handheld device includes a built-in numeric keypad, a display monitor, and optical reader designed to communicate with a compatible ID tag located on or in the vicinity of the exercise activity data source. Loaded into the working memory of the handheld device is a pre-programmed exercise data collection program. The exercise data collection program displays one or more sub-routines to the member requesting the member to input information regarding the exercise. The sub-routines are specific to the exercise activity data source and present one or more prompts requiring the member to input information. The inputted information is stored in a temporary data file located on the handheld device or transmitted immediately to a permanent member data file on a local server located in the health club.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a device for monitoring a movement of a user includes a sensor module, a processor, and a feedback module. The sensor module is capable of generating positional information describing a movement of a user. The processor is capable of determining based on the positional information that the user has performed a predetermined movement. The feedback module is capable of generating sensory feedback in response to determining that the user has performed the predetermined movement.

Abstract: An exercise system (10) for exercising at least one limb, such as the legs, of a subject with spinal cord injury or deficiency. The system (10) comprises an exercise bicycle (20) having a crank (17) and pedals (16) to which the feet of the subject can be mounted, and a functional electrical stimulation (FES) system (30). The FES system (30) stimulates the muscles of the legs and includes a transducer (51) mountable to at least one of the legs of the subject (12) that outputs signals representative of the position and/or movement of the leg when performing the exercise. The FES system (30) further includes a control means that receives and processes the signals output by the transducer (51) and outputs control signals to a stimulator (35) that through electrodes (53) provides electrical stimulation to the legs of the subject (12) so as to cause the legs to drive the crank (17) of the bicycle (20).

Abstract: To realize a light steering handle operation similar to that of a real bicycle, and to obtain an appearance similar to that of a real bicycle. A bicycle simulation system has a turnable steering handle, a left-right pair of pedals, a frame for turnably supporting the steering handle and the pedals, a monitor for displaying a scenery according to the simulated running velocity required by a first speed pickup, a controller supplying sensor signals to a main control unit which controls the monitor. The controller is provided on front forks that function as a front stand.

Abstract: A combined exercise management and entertainment unit includes a sensor for sensing a user's body state during exercise and producing an exercise signal to a microprocessor, so as to calculate the user's calorie consumption during exercise each time and the accumulated calorie consumption; a personal characteristics database for storing data of a user's body physical characteristics; an exercise course memory for storing exercise courses set by the user, including the time period, item, and duration of an exercise to be done; a setting unit for the user to set the data of body physical characteristics to be stored in the personal characteristics database; and a play unit having an entertainment information memory for storing a plurality of entertainment information entries, which correspond to the exercise items set by the user and may be selectively played corresponding to the exercise item being done.

Abstract: An interactive rehabilitation method for movement of upper and lower extremities is disclosed. An identification label of an extracted image is detected to provide an operating position of an image of an extremity. A movement mode for a target image is determined according to the identification label and the target image is displayed in a scene. It is determined whether identification labels corresponding to movement of an extremity of the target image are being continuously obtained, and, if so, the performance of the movement of the extremity is led based on operational guidance. A feedback operation is provided according to the movement of the extremity, preset movement paths and velocities, and targeted positions of the target image. It is determined whether the target image has been moved to the preset targeted positions, and, if so, the performance of the movement of the extremity is graded.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention include a controller circuit for an exercise machine, where the controller circuit includes a board mounted transformer having tolerances near or below the inrush current generally present in activating one or more cooling fans. According to one embodiment, the controller circuit attempts to power on a subsequent fan after the sum of the inrush or steady state current of presently operating fan or fans, and the inrush current generally associated with powering on the subsequent fan, is within the tolerances of the transformer.

Abstract: A force sensing system comprising a force sensor cell with the necessary electronics to acquire and process various signals. The signals may provide force measurement data for activities performed, for instance, on a weight stack exercise machine.

Abstract: An active dynamic seating device is provided that includes a seat, a central part and a base part, where a stable sitting position is attained by additionally supporting one or both legs of a user. The seating device encompasses a tone generator, which emits a tone in response to carrying out a certain change of the sitting position. The seating device is particularly well-suited for, for example, carrying out gymnastics exercises.

Abstract: A method and exerciser for adjusting vibration magnitude includes installing a vibration module unit to a frame and a vibration magnitude adjusting unit is connected to the vibration module unit. A circuit-controller controls the vibration module unit and the vibration magnitude adjusting unit. The circuit-controller is connected with a user-exerciser interface. A cable is connected between the user and the vibration magnitude adjusting unit via the user-exerciser interface such that the vibration can be transferred to a pulling member of the cable.

Abstract: A forearm and wrist exercise device includes a base frame, a handle rod, a driver wheel, a driven yoke, a driven wheel and an adjustable tensioner. The base frame is attached to a stationary object, such as a wall. The handle rod extends from the driver wheel and the handle rod is pivotally retained by the base frame. The driven wheel is forced against the driver wheel. A second embodiment of the forearm and wrist exercise device includes a base frame, a handle rod, a driver wheel, a tension belt and an adjustable tensioner. A third embodiment of the forearm and wrist exercise device includes a base frame, a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic flow valve and a pair of extension shafts. A fourth embodiment of the forearm and wrist exercise device includes a base frame, a handle rod, a driver gear, a driven gear, a flywheel and an electromagnet.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for assessing the effect of exercise on an individual by measuring changes in the concentration of a compound in the individual's blood. Specifically, the invention measures changes in the concentration of an anti-inflammatory signal molecule or endogenous morphine. Anti-inflammatory signal molecules include, for example, adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), cortisol, and interleukin-10 (IL-10). A first embodiment of the invention provides a method for assessing the effect of exercise on an individual comprising the steps of measuring a concentration of at least one compound in the individual's blood before exercise, measuring a concentration of the at least one compound in the individual's blood after exercise, and comparing the concentrations of the at least one compound.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a video interaction device, which integrates areas of a human upper body with a sport game software to achieve a video interaction via a display interface. The video interaction device of the present invention comprises: at least one foot-sensation member and at least one body motion-driving controller, which are respectively arranged in a foot exercise device and areas of a human upper body (such as a hand, the head, and the waist). Via the foot-sensation members and the body motion-driving controllers, a more precise and delicate whole-body interaction can be thus achieved between a user and a sport game software.

Abstract: A method for interpreting data representing forces and torques exerted by a right and left foot on a first and second plate treadmill to determine forces and torques exerted on the right and left foot over a specified period of time. A plurality of signals is preferably analyzed to produce data readings from the first and second plates to determine an occurrence of feet contact on the plates and feet departure from the plates. The data from the signals is then separated into a side A dataset and a side B dataset. Each of the datasets is then matched to one of the individual's feet. The resulting determination of forces and torques exerted on the feet provides a more complete analysis of an individual's progress during injury or rehabilitation.

Abstract: An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.

Abstract: The present invention provides a leisure fitness equipment with oxygen-supplying function, comprising a leisure fitness device, an oxygenerator and a control device, said oxygenerator is fixed or detachably connected to said leisure fitness device, said leisure fitness device and said oxygenerator are controllable by said control device. The present invention has a compact structure, have a function of oxygen-supplying in addition to leisure or fitness, and it is suitable for family use and for public places such as entertainment sites, physical training centers or hospitals.

Abstract: A system and method of hierarchical monitoring for subordinate assessment is described. Generally, the system receives remotely sensed data about a user's physiology and contextual state, and extracts features that are related to the workload currently being experienced by a single subordinate and/or group of subordinates. The system builds workload indices based on levels of these features. The system uses statistical process control techniques in conjunction with the workload indices to identify suboptimal user states. Information regarding a particular subordinate or the group of subordinates may be presented in a variety of different ways. As a result, a superior can easily determine the condition of the one or more subordinates and make task adjustments to influence workload levels.

Abstract: Apparatus for passively exercising at least a portion of a human body includes an inflatable bag which exerts a force during inflation, an electrical air pump disposed in fluid communication with the bag for supplying an atmospheric air medium to inflate the bag, a solenoid valve disposed in fluid communication with the inflatable bag for discharging the atmospheric air medium to deflate the bag and a timing control circuit coupled to the pump and to the solenoid valve for cyclically inflating and deflating the bag. The control circuit includes a dual integrated circuit timer operable with an external resistor-capacitor timer control to provide such cyclical inflation and deflation of the bag. The duration of the cycle is adjusted with a variable resistor coupled to the dual timer. The apparatus can be integrated into a seat or an article of furniture.

Abstract: A leg strength measuring apparatus is capable of measuring a gravity center distribution of loads and leg strength which can in turn serve as a reference for the selection of a ski, a snowboard, ski boots, or snowboarding boots appropriate for a user of the apparatus. The leg strength measuring apparatus includes two footplates upon which a person to be measured steps separately with his left and right feet, and load sensors for detecting loads applied to each of the footplates at least at three points.