Abstract: An ergonomic workstation with a reduced or minimal footprint comprises a modified treadmill component and a workstation component. In one embodiment, a substantial portion of the workstation's support structure fits under the treadmill component so that the overall footprint of the treadmill workstation is minimized. Additional lateral stability of the workstation component is ensured by its proximal location under the heavy treadmill component. A vertical support extends from the base of the workstation component and supports a vertically oriented desk and monitor. In another embodiment, a single vertical workstation support enables adjustability at more than one point. Because both the screen and the desk are connected to the single vertical support, a user may quickly adjust both the desk surface and the viewing monitor to appropriate, individually tailored heights with minimum effort.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a video display. In certain embodiments the apparatus includes an integrated platform. Memory within the apparatus contains a library of instructional exercise programs, such as yoga, Pilates, body toning and stretching routines. The apparatus may also connect to a network, such as the Internet to stream and/or download additional exercise programs. A user interface enables the user to select from available programs, which are shown on the video display. Audio for the programs may be provided via speakers or though headphones, which may be rechargeable and/or wireless.

Abstract: Athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems include components for measuring or sensing athletic performance data and/or for storing and/or displaying desired information associated with the athletic performance to the user (or others). Such systems can allow users a wide variety of options in creating workouts, selecting and presenting media content during the athletic performance, etc., e.g., to help keep users entertained and motivated. In some instances, user feedback may be used, optionally in combination with objective data relating to a workout, to control features of the workout routine, to control the music or other media content selected and/or presented, and/or to control features of future workout routines and/or the presented media content.

Abstract: A physical activity monitoring method and system in one embodiment includes a communications network, a wearable sensor device configured to generate physiologic data associated with a sensed physiologic condition of a wearer, and to generate audio context data associated with a sensed audio context of the wearer, and to form a communication link with the communications network, a memory for storing the physiologic data and the audio context data, a computer and a computer program executed by the computer, wherein the computer program comprises computer instructions for rendering activity data associated with the physiologic data and the audio context data, and a user interface operably connected to the computer for rendering the activity data.

Abstract: A physical training system comprises a resistance structure, and at least one resistance unit disposed thereon, wherein an athlete may attach to the resistance unit by way of a cable that is incorporated in the resistance unit. The at least one resistance unit may exert a resistive force on an athlete through the cable. The system may further comprise at least one target object, against which an athlete may make selective physical contact as part of a training regimen. The system may further comprise sensors and data collection devices for tracking an athlete's performance. The system allows the exertion of force on an athlete from a plurality of directions and according to various movement patterns (including non-linear movement patterns) of an athlete.

Abstract: Each time stepping motion of a player by a stepper 1 is detected, one firework object 214 appears on a television monitor 100 and then disappears. Each a predetermined number of times of the stepping motion of the player is detected, a more spectacular firework object than that of one step is displayed. If the player performs the stepping motion by frequency as a quota shown in a quota display section 212, this screen is finished.

Abstract: There is provided a physical fitness workout processing methodology and system for enabling remote scheduling and set-up of workout sessions for individual gym members or groups. In an exemplary embodiment, an individual or member is enabled to schedule a workout session in advance by using a wireless device or a personal computer from a location remote from the gymnasium where the workout session is to occur. The individual or user is enabled to schedule the use of various kinds of workout stations and equipment to insure that the proper equipment is available for use by the individual at the time during a workout session when it is needed. When the member enters the gym, his or her presence is detected and the member is tracked throughout the workout session. Messages are displayed on display devices by workout stations to announce that the equipment has been reserved for the member at the appropriate time.

Abstract: Enables coupling or retrofitting a golf club with active motion capture electronics that are battery powered, passive or active shot count components, for example a passive RFID, and/or a visual marker on the cap for use with visual motion capture cameras. Does not require modifying the golf club. Electronics package and battery can be easily removed and replaced, for example without any tools. May utilize a weight that is removed when inserting the electronic package in the mount, wherein the weight element may have the same weight as an electronics package, for no net change or minimal change in club weight. May be implemented with a shaft enclosure and expander that may be coupled with a screw aligned along an axis parallel to the axis of the golf club shaft. May utilize non-permanently and/or friction coupling between the mount and golf club shaft. Cap may include a visual marker and/or logo.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of generating haptic cues for pacing and monitoring are disclosed. After sensing an event via a component, a process for generating haptic cues generates an input in response to the event. The component, in one example, may be a sensor or a combination of a sensor and a haptic actuator. Upon receipt of the input, the process retrieves a haptic signal from a tactile library in response to the input. A haptic feedback in response to the haptic signal is subsequently generated.

Abstract: An embodiment of the disclosure consists of a rectangular lightweight rigid handled frame, four adjustable telescoping foldout locking legs with protective feet, a rear-facing mirror, a pair of forward-facing mirrors, an eleven-light light source, and a control panel. The rear-facing mirror is connected to the frame and is adjustable about a horizontal axis to form a vertical angle in order to facilitate the reflections from the light source back and forth between the rear-facing mirror and the pair of forward-facing mirrors. The pair of forward-facing mirrors are connected to the frame, are spaced apart to form the porthole, and are adjustable on both a vertical and horizontal axis in order to form the vertical angle and the rotational angle needed to facilitate the reflections from the light source back and forth between the rear-facing mirror and at least one of the pair of forward-facing mirrors.

Abstract: A treadmill is provided with a security apparatus. The security apparatus includes a plug and a socket. The plug includes a casing and a conductive card. The conductive card includes a first portion disposed in the casing and a second portion extended from the casing. The socket includes a casing and two conductive elements. The casing includes a slot defined therein. The conductive elements are disposed in the casing so that the conductive elements are isolated from each other normally but connected to each other through the conductive card when the conductive card is inserted into the casing through the slot.

Abstract: A system for processing biological data is provided and includes a monitoring device configured to receive biological data responsive to a living being. The system also includes an interface device communicated with the monitoring device to receive the biological data. Furthermore, the system includes a data transfer device, configured to receive the biological data from the interface device and communicate the biological data to a processing device for processing. Additionally, a method for processing biological information is provided, wherein the method includes receiving biological information from a monitoring device responsive to a first party and responsive to an exercise regime and processing the biological information to generate resultant information responsive to at least one physical characteristic of the first party.

Abstract: Methods and devices for executing a computerized talk test, comprising: following an exercise program; providing auditory signals from time to time; recording a user talking according to the auditory signals; analyzing the recordings to identify predefined properties; and providing an indication of the user's current heart rate training zone based on the analysis results. Other embodiments discuss a device configured to determine when a user approximately sustains a fixed level of physical effort and then execute a computerized talk test, and a device configured to identify a user's heart rate training zone based on identification of involuntary interruptions in the user's voice speech.

Abstract: A system and method of providing an interactive training program by monitoring a user's actions is disclosed. A user is prompted through the interactive training program to perform certain movements, the user's movements are monitored relative to the prompted movements, and feedback is provided to the user through the program.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame including a first portion and a second portion positioned in a plane generally perpendicular to the first portion. A carriage assembly moves along a linear path parallel to the first portion. A drive unit is joined to the frame for movement the carriage assembly in a first direction and a second direction. The drive unit includes a motor, a ball screw joined to the motor, and at least one support bearing rotatably joined to the ball screw and joined to the carriage assembly for enabling the carriage to move along the linear path in response to the ball screw rotating. A first sensor activates the motor in a first mode to move the carriage in the first direction. A second sensor activates the motor in a second mode to move the carriage in the second direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame with a load positioned on the frame to provide a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. A display is provided for inputting and outputting data. A sensor is positioned on the frame for measuring a displacement and a speed of the linkage. A memory storage is provided for storing data. A processor communicates with the display and the sensor and the memory storage for processing data. The processor transfers data to the display for providing an exercising instruction to the operator. The processor receives data from the sensor for processing the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator. The processor transfers data to the memory storage for saving the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator.

Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of providing training feedback to an individual using a heart rate sensor and a display module supported by the individual during a physical activity, the method including the steps of: (a) determining a maximum heart rate value for the individual; (b) defining a heart rate zone as a range of heart rate values that correspond to a range of percentages of the maximum heart rate value; (c) associating a color with the heart rate zone; (d) wirelessly transmitting heart rate data from the heart rate sensor to the display module during the physical activity; and (e) visually displaying the color associated with the heart rate zone to the individual on the display module during the physical activity in response to the heart rate data.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise on an exercise device. The process includes measuring a range of movement of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic range of movement data. A strength is measured of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic strength data. An electronic program is designed based on the electronic range of movement data and the electronic strength data. The electronic program is stored in an electronic media. The electronic program is displayed as a moving scale on a screen for instructing the operator to exercise at the same rate as the moving scale to complete the exercise in a timely and controlled matter.

Abstract: Motional training is achieved by providing a subject with vibrotactile feedback in response to an attempt by the subject to perform predetermined motions. In particular, an attempt by the subject to perform at least one predetermined motion is monitored using sensors, such as force plates or inertial sensors. The sensor signals indicate results of the attempt by the subject to perform the at least one predetermined motion, and a variance between the at least one predetermined motion and the results of the attempt by the subject to perform the at least one predetermined motion is determined. Vibrotactile signals are then sent to the subject by activating one or more actuators coupled to the subject, where the one or more actuators are spatially oriented with respect to the subject to indicate one or more directions. The vibrotactile signals indicate the variance with respect to the one or more directions.

Abstract: We have disclosed a modular personal network (MPN) that includes multiple devices that may be worn, carried, or used in close proximity to a user. The devices communicate wirelessly. Functions of the MPN may be modified by adding or removing components. The MPN may communicate with a personal computer. General purpose devices may include a control unit, a display, a user input, and an audio output. The MPN may provide a variety of functions, including time, communication, entertainment, organization, guidance, athletic, medical, travel, outdoors, identity, security, and military.

Abstract: An example exercise system includes an exercise apparatus having a processor and a movable element and a device coupled to the exercise apparatus and to a communication network. The device is configured to receive an exercise program and to output the exercise program to the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus in this disclosure includes a doorway mountable runner restraint device. The device has a generally rigid, preferably padded, belly pad that is placed against and in front of a user's pelvis and abdominal area. A pair of cords are attached to the belly pad, each having an opposite end attached to an elastic member. Each of the elastic members is, in turn, attached to an anchor which is removably fastened to a door, a doorway frame, or sandwiched between a closed door and the doorway frame. A user fastens the apparatus in place in a doorway, faces away from the doorway, and places the belly pad against his or her torso directly over the pelvis area, and then runs in a direction away from the doorway. The elastic members resist and restrain the user from substantial movement away from the doorway but stretch to allow forward running movement.

Abstract: A method, system, measurement device and receiving device for providing feedback relating to an activity to at least one individual. In the method, activity information relating to an activity is measured with a measurement device. Activity information is transmitted to a receiving device via a communication link. The receiving device selects from the received activity information a predefined set of pieces of activity information and provides the at least one individual with feedback based on the selected activity information.

Abstract: An adjustable sphincter exerciser (Kegel exercise) includes a flexible tubular member, at least one sleeve mounted to the tubular member; a body inserted into the tubular member, a conductive device connected to the body and located in the tubular member, the conductive device being activated when the tubular member is compressed, a vibration unit electrically connected to the conductive device, and a power unit providing power to the conductive device and the vibration unit. The at least one sleeve can be replaced and has different hardness, when the user squeezes the at least one sleeve and the tubular member to activate the conductive device and the vibration unit, the user is acknowledged the force that sphincter is exercised. The adjustable sphincter exerciser (Kegel exercise) enhances the muscular strength and the muscular endurance of the sphincter.

Abstract: An information exchanging device includes a physical information measuring unit, a script executing unit, a radio communication unit, a display unit, and a control unit. The physical information measuring unit is configured to measure physical information of a user. The script executing unit is configured to execute a script of contents based on said physical information. The radio communication unit is configured to transmit and receive data to and from another device. The control unit is configured to establish a connection between the information exchanging device and the other device by said radio communication unit when the other device is present in a communicating range, receive a predetermined script via said radio communication unit from the other device to which the information exchanging device is connected, make said script executing unit execute the received script, and transmit a result of execution to the other device.

Abstract: A universal athleticism rating system and related athletic performance measuring systems for accurately detecting and recording athletic performance are disclosed. The athleticism rating system evaluates individual athletes against a common, standardized set of athletic performance tests. Each athlete performs the athletic tests and his or her scores in the individual tests are entered into a standardized calculation to produce a single athletic performance score. The related performance measuring system is preferably a timing system that ensures quick, easy, and accurate collection of athletic event timing related data without the need for the athlete to wear any special detection devices or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the performance measuring system integrates with the rating system to provide seamless athletic data collection and rating of athletes.

Abstract: Provided is a treadmill-related technology. That is, the treadmill device and the operating method of the same is configured to detect a user who is taking exercise in real time, take pictures of the detected user's looks, and insert user image data as the results of data analysis, which are obtained from the taken pictures, into a virtual 3D object moving image which indicates the selected exercise course background, so as to project a 3D user image in which the user's behavior patterns are engaged with a virtual 3D object moving image. Therefore, since the treadmill device is used to allow a user to see his own looks taking exercise in real time, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling boring during exercise, and it is easy to continuously check the user's own physical status or conditions.

Abstract: This is directed to systems and methods for accessing personalized fitness services through an integrated application available to a portable electronic device. The integrated application can provide a full fitness center experience by introducing potential new customer to a fitness center and then motivating them to return to the fitness center as active members. For example, the integrated application can provide functions to introduce new customers to a fitness center, can provide functions to motivate customers to join and actively visit the fitness center, can provide in-gym motivation, and can provide post-workout motivation.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame, a pair of footpads, and a linkage coupling the footpads to the frame and for guiding the footpads in closed paths when a user's feet apply forces to the footpads. The linkage, which includes a rotatable member having an angular position indicative of the positions of the footpads within their closed paths, responds to input control signals by adjusting length and height dimensions of the closed paths. A control system senses the angular position of the rotatable member, senses the forces the user applies to the footpads, and generates the control signals to increase or decrease the path dimensions when it senses particular combinations of angular position and user forces, thereby permitting the user to control the path dimensions by controlling the forces applied to the footpads.

Abstract: The invention is an exercise activated switch that includes a bicycle that is mounted on a stand. When a user peddles the bicycle a signal is sent to signal receiver, which triggers a switch and allows a cable or satellite signal, or a DVD player, to reach a television or other media device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for monitoring and encouraging health and fitness. In accordance with a first aspect, an apparatus is provided that is adapted to assist in weight loss and exercise. The apparatus comprises a personal digital assistant (PDA) having computer program code adapted to assist in at least one of calorie counting, meal selection, meal suggestion, weight monitoring, weight loss or gain monitoring, fat consumption monitoring, sugar consumption monitoring and salt consumption monitoring. The PDA also includes computer program code adapted to display historical data regarding at least one of calorie counting, meal selection, meal suggestion, weight monitoring, weight loss or gain monitoring, fat consumption monitoring, sugar consumption monitoring and salt consumption monitoring. Numerous other embodiments are provided, as are methods, systems and computer program products.

Abstract: A sensing apparatus for use in combination with a stationary bicycle comprises a housing that supports a source of emitted radiation and a detector of radiation of the same wavelength as that emitted by the source, fixing means for fixing the housing to an exercise device such that radiation is emitted towards a region of space that can be occupied by a part of a body of a user of the exercise device and selectively transmitted on to the detector depending on whether a part of a user's body is located within the space, a processor which measures at least one property of the radiation from the source that is passed to the detector and from the measured property produces an output signal indicative of the proximity of the user relative to the device within that space.

Abstract: An example system includes a processor and communication circuitry under the control of the processor. The communication circuitry is configured to communicate exercise programs to exercise apparatuses, the communicated exercise programs including a first exercise program for use in controlling an exercise apparatus of a first exercise type and a second exercise program for use in controlling an exercise apparatus of a second exercise type different than the first exercise type.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for guiding a person to a physiological cumulative state in physical exercise, in which the exercise has a physiological target in the form of a physiological state at the end of the exercise, a duration, and a performance parameter. In the method at the start of the exercise the physiological target is set, as is the value of the performance parameter, and during the exercise at regular intervals: at least one quantity proportional to the momentary intensity is measured, and the present physiological state and an estimate of the physiological state and the end of the exercise are calculated with the aid of the momentary intensity and the exercise performed, and a guidance range for the momentary intensity is defined, in order to reach the target state and the performance parameter. The user is guided by means of feedback to remain within the said guidance intensity range.

Abstract: An intra-oral system is disclosed for assisting an individual in developing intra-oral muscle control and strength, and for facilitating typing of alphanumeric characters on a virtual keyboard. The system may also be used to enable an individual having limited use of the upper extremities to control an electrical apparatus such as a wheelchair, a bed or a light fixture. The intra-oral system includes a mouthpiece having a plurality of cells embedded therein. The cells are configured to receive pressure applied by the tongue of an individual. Movement of the tongue over and against the cells causes an object to be moved over a display. In one embodiment, the object is moved through an obstacle course or over a simulated track as part of a therapeutic regimen. In another embodiment, the object is moved over alphanumeric characters on a digital keyboard, and selected characters are typed by operation of the mouthpiece.

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 example system and method involves receiving data communicated from multiple exercise machines and storing machine-related data for the multiple exercise machines. The machine-related data includes at least maintenance data, use data and warranty data for a respective one or more of the exercise machines. The machine-related data is updated based on the data received from the multiple exercise machines and one or more operations is automatically performed with reference to the stored machine-related data to produce operation-generated information about one or more of the multiple exercise machines.

Abstract: A convenient device, such as a mobile phone, provides a user interface for a system that generated personalised exercise programs and guides users through the exercises in a generated program. The generation of the program may be performed by the device providing the user interface.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive exercise management system. The system may be used for improving a workout environment for a specific user or group of users, tracking exercise information, and providing future workout information. The system, and method of using the system, allows for a specific user or group of users to control their workout environmental conditions. The conditions that may be controlled include, but are not limited to, sight, sound, smell and climate.

Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a portable fitness monitoring system includes: a portable fitness monitoring device; a sensor in wireless communication with the portable fitness monitoring device for sensing performance parameters during a physical activity conducted by the user and communicating performance parameter data to the dedicated portable fitness monitoring device; a music device directly coupled to the portable fitness monitoring device; and an audio output device directly coupled to the portable fitness monitoring device, wherein music is transmitted from the portable music device to the audio output device through the portable fitness monitoring device.

Abstract: An example portable module is for use with an exercise system which includes a moveable element, a first processor and a port adapted to receive the portable module. The portable module includes a second processor and a memory storing information usable to control one or more parameters associated with the movable element.

Abstract: A multi-functional exercise machine, whose console has parts that can be slidden, rotated, extended, bended or unfolded so that the console can be transformed into an exercise workstation, comprising an arm supporting component and a computer supporting component for a user to efficiently work with a personal laptop computer free of distractions while doing exercise. The console can be transformed between a normal console and an exercise workstation, so that it can be used for both highly focused extensive exercise and moderate exercise with working or entertaining at same time, in either family or gym environment. The arm supporting component is specially designed to minimize upper body movements and the console supporting assembly is specially designed to minimize vibration and shaking during exercise.

Abstract: A physical exercise method and apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing.

Abstract: According to at least some embodiments of the present invention: (i) a user's non-stationary exertion is detected; (ii) a virtual terrain is provided; and (iii) the detected non-stationary exertion is normalized for the virtual terrain. This is different than any stationary exercise machines that may normalize exertion for a virtual terrain because non-stationary exertion is used. This allows the user to exercise in a non-stationary way, such as by running cross-country. Non-stationary exercise is an advantage of at least some embodiments of the present invention because users often prefer non-stationary exercise to stationary exercise. At least some embodiments of the present invention make it possible to use mapping onto virtual terrains possible even in the non-stationary context. It is further noted that the present invention uses a virtual terrain (see DEFINITIONS section), rather than a virtual course (see DEFINITIONS section) without virtualized terrain factors (see DEFINITIONS section).

Abstract: The invention provides a state-of-exercise measuring apparatus and a biometric apparatus configured to measure a state of exercise of a user accurately and easily in real time by calculating biometric impedances of the user doing an exercise and utilizing a change of the biometric impedances.

Abstract: A system and method for providing visual feedback to a user of an exercise machine for gauging fitness progress of the user. The system provides a user of an exercise machine with a virtual competition in which the user competes against virtual competitors based on his past performances or those of other users, either as an individual or as a member of a team. The team may also be part of a league. For an individual competing against his own past performance(s), the system may raise the level of performance required to win the virtual competition, and may also lower the level of performance required if the user is not performing well on a particular day. For an individual competing against others in either real-time or against designated results, either as part of a team or a league, the system may reduce the isolation, disconnection, and tedium often experienced by users of cardiovascular exercise equipment and provide a social outlet.

Abstract: A “Complete Body Fitness Machine” that provides for a muscle building workout as well as a cardiovascular workout for the total body consists generally of an adjustable seat and two arms on either side, which are adjustable in height and have an infinitely and independently variable resistance possible in either clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. The arms are designed to have several types of mechanisms attached, so as to be able to work with a variety of body parts including, but not limited to, hands, arms, legs, feet, torso, neck and shoulders. When the proper attachment is used, the resistance for each direction of rotation of the arm is set, and the exercise is conducted. Depending on the workout desired, the seat and arms could be adjusted to different positions as well as the seat can be free-moving.

Abstract: A resistance training device effectively training the muscular force of a desired muscle includes a saddle for a user to sit on, a robot arm adjustable to the length of a limb of the user, a fastener for securing the robot arm to the limb, a controller for controlling the torque of a driving source driving a joint of the robot arm, and an input operating unit for the user to input a driving condition. When the user inputs a training load and an output direction of the distal end of the limb to be trained, the value of a torque necessary for generating the training load is calculated. The robot arm generates the torque of the calculated magnitude acting in a direction opposite to the output direction in such a manner that a constant training load is exerted to the user without dependency on the position of the user.

Abstract: A convenient device, such as a mobile phone, provides a user interface for a system that generated personalized exercise programs and guides users through the exercises in a generated program. The generation of the program may be performed by the device providing the user interface.

Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.