Swimming Patents (Class 482/55)
  • Patent number: 11872459
    Abstract: A system for learning to float including an aquatic learning station deployable in a volume of water. The learning station can include a horizontal member having an upper and a lower surface, wherein the horizontal member is supported in the volume of water with the upper surface located within four inches of a surface of the volume of water. The system can include a tether assembly coupled to the aquatic learning station. The tether assembly can include a tether portion releasably coupled to and extending away from the aquatic learning station and a belt portion connected to the tether portion and wearable by a person learning to float.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Inventor: Melon Dash
  • Patent number: 11759691
    Abstract: The present invention is a tethered resistance swim training apparatus with a pulley that includes an electronic tachometer to measure the rotations of the wheel of the pulley and strain gauge to measure the force pulling on the body of the pulley. The pulley, also referred to as “smart pulley”, can be implemented in many tethered swim training apparatuses of different arrangements. With the tachometer and strain gauge the power and other performance metrics can be calculated while a swimmer is using the apparatus. A load cell or similar can be used in place of a strain gauge. The sensors may be connected via wired or wireless communications to a computer (tablet, laptop, personal computer, server, or the like) for processing of the signals and display on an electronic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Destro Machines LLC
    Inventor: Charles Destro
  • Patent number: 11305170
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise apparatus for applying a resistive force to an exercising swimmer, the apparatus includes a bracket mounted to a vertically oriented surface located above a pool of water, a container, an operational assembly comprising at least one upper pulley attached to the bracket and at least one lower pulley attached to the container, a cord passing through the at least one upper pulley and the at least one lower pulley, and a fastener configured to attach to an exercising swimmer, where the fastener is attached to a free end of the cord, and where pulling the free end of the cord moves the container upward against gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Destro Machines LLC
    Inventor: Charles Destro
  • Patent number: 10596438
    Abstract: The present development is a device that restrains an individual from swimming beyond a predetermined range. The device comprises a frame, at least one ballast unit, at least one tether line and a means to secure the swimmer to the tether line. The device is intended to be portable and easy to use while still providing a sturdy restraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Inventor: Phillip Gambrell
  • Patent number: 10384093
    Abstract: A resistance kickboard attachment is disclosed. When attached to a kickboard, the resistance kickboard attachment adds resistance while swimming with the kickboard. The resistance kickboard attachment includes a resistance pocket, with variable resistance provided by an adjustment of a rear aperture of the resistance pocket. The resistance kickboard attachment attaches to the kickboard with a transverse and a longitudinal strap. The transverse strap includes an adjustment on either side of the longitudinal strap which allows the longitudinal strap to be centered on the kickboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: TYR Sport, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Carlin Peloquin, Philip Moses Bayer, Matthew Vito DiLorenzo, Thomas Wenzler, Yang Wang
  • Patent number: 10363448
    Abstract: A liquid buoyancy muscle training device includes a liquid receiving tank receiving and holding liquid therein. A buoyantly submergible member is buoyantly submergible in the liquid contained in the liquid receiving tank and includes a regulation chamber formed therein. A bottom pulley is mounted inside the liquid receiving tank. A rope is connected to the buoyantly submergible member and wrapped around the bottom pulley and extends upward to project outside the liquid receiving tank. A liquid regulation tank is connected through a liquid supply tube to the regulation chamber to allow liquid to flow therebetween. A gas supplier is connected through a gas supply tube to the regulation chamber to selectively supply gas into the regulation chamber to change a ratio between liquid and gas inside the regulation chamber so as to change buoyance applied to the buoyantly submergible member by the liquid contained in the liquid receiving tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Inventors: Chiang Liu, Ya-Chen Liu, Wei-Han Chen, Wen-Hsuan Pan
  • Patent number: 9604088
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for providing weighted resistance to swimmers are provided. The device can be portable and easy to use and set-up. In one exemplary embodiment, a resistance training device includes opposed pulley modules having a rope disposed between one or more pulleys of each of the two modules, a weighted component associated with one end of the rope, an attachment mechanism for attaching the device to a substantially fixed location, and a user interface for associating another end of the rope with a user. In use, the device can be fixed to a substantially fixed location, such as a dive block, and can provide resistance based, at least in part, on the amount of weight associated with the weighted component disposed in the water. Other systems, devices, and methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Douglas R. Djang
  • Patent number: 9199125
    Abstract: A swim training apparatus for training a user during swimming, the apparatus including, an at least semi-rigid body, an attachment mechanism to allow the body to be worn by the user so that at least part of the body contacts the user's torso to thereby provide at least one of resistance training for improving at least one of strength and stability of the user, and posture training for guiding user posture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Samuel James, Mark Dockrill, Kon Euan Gerard Wong, Simon Lawry
  • Patent number: 9162109
    Abstract: A fitness board, including: a fitness board body, the fitness board body including a center and a margin; a first cavity; a second cavity; and a flow regulating mechanism. The first cavity is disposed inside the center of the fitness board body. The second cavity is disposed inside the fitness board body and winds around the margin thereof. The first cavity communicates with the second cavity. The first cavity and the second cavity are filled with a liquid. The volume of the liquid is smaller than the total capacity of the first cavity and the second cavity. The flow regulating mechanism is disposed inside the first cavity and/or the second cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Cheok Io Tang
  • Patent number: 9005086
    Abstract: A portable rowing machine is disclosed that includes a tubular frame consisting of two parallel tubes positioned and supported by floor brackets, a seat that is removably situated on top of the tubular frame and slidable along the tubular frame on rollers mounted to the underside of the seat, swivel arms attached to brackets and extending perpendicularly outward from the tubular frame, and oar arms attached to the ends of the swivel arms. The tubular frame includes a telescoping portion enabling adjustment of the length of the frame from a compact storage size to a size desired for a users leg length. The swivel arm brackets are pivotally positionable in a storage position and a working position. The oar arms are adjustable in length to suit the users body size. A clutch bearing and band brake assembly provides oar arm motion resistance comparable to rowing a boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: John J. O'Neil
  • Patent number: 8986170
    Abstract: A swim training aid apparatus is provided for use on a limb of a swimmer, during a swimming motion. The training aid includes a flexible band member configured to extend circumferentially around the limb, and a lock device cooperating with the band member to releasably retain the same around the swimmer's limb. The training aid further includes a substantially non-absorbent, flexible material sheath having one end thereof mounted to the band member, and an opposite end thereof extending distally past and terminating beyond the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Aquavolo LLC
    Inventors: Eduard Y. Sherstnev, Gavin B. Lee
  • Patent number: 8821353
    Abstract: The invention provides a mobile structure that can be used in any water body having a relatively uniform floor and a calm surface (i.e., beach, lake or pool). This structure has multiple hold and leaning surfaces and/or elements that lie flush and below the water level providing people with disabilities and older people a solid support structure to hold, sit, stand or lean while performing adapted swimming activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: University of Puerto Rico
    Inventors: Mauricio A. Lizama, Diego A. Agostini
  • Patent number: 8795140
    Abstract: A starting block for swimming equipped with a single curved surface to facilitate track starts while reducing the trip hazard of such a surface. This allows for safer mounting from rear and side steps and removes undesirable gaps in the top surface of the starting block. A pliable embodiment of said curved surface can modify the distance of the curvature from the leading edge of the starting block to adapt to different swimmer needs. An apparatus to obtain said distance for a given swimmer from a meet management system to modify the pliable embodiment for quick change during time-constrained events such as meets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Colorado Time Systems
    Inventors: Eric Solanyk, Christian Stockinger
  • Patent number: 8790224
    Abstract: Aquatic exercise system and method for use in a body of water is presented. In particular, the system comprises a sleeve correspondingly disposable in covering relation to at least a portion of a user's appendage, such as an arm or leg, a securing assembly to secure the sleeve to a user, and at least one fin outwardly extending from the sleeve and structured to increase resistance to the user regardless of the particular directional or rotational movement. In some embodiments, the sleeve is further structured to cover an extremity of a user, such as a hand or foot. Further embodiments include a seat assembly connectable to an access pole of a pool or hot tub. The method includes applying an aquatic exercise system to an appendage of a user, submerging the appendage and system, and moving the appendage and system through water in at least one direction to create resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Adam M. Davis
  • Patent number: 8784278
    Abstract: Disclosed are an underwater treadmill system and a method of exercising involving the underwater treadmill system. The underwater treadmill system includes a fluid-driven treadmill belt and a housing including a jet. The method includes selectively driving a fluid-driven treadmill belt by selectively providing a fluid to a treadmill drive unit and selectively expelling water through a jet positioned within a housing of the underwater treadmill system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Hydroworx International, Inc.
    Inventors: Anson Flake, Dominick Tucci, Phillip Black
  • Publication number: 20140200116
    Abstract: A swim training system and method includes a signal delivery sub-system configured to deliver signals to the swimmer and a machine vision sub-system with a detector and a target marker to be worn by a swimmer. The detector is configured to detect the target marker. A controller is configured to operably control the machine vision sub-system. A data processing sub-system is configured to process data collected by the machine vision sub-system and to generate signals for the signal delivery system. During a swim training session, the detector tracks a location of the target marker and transmits speed data to the data processing sub-system. The data processing sub-system processes the speed data and generates signals that are transmitted to the swimmer via the signal delivery sub-system in real time during the swim session. The signals are representative of a real time speed characteristic of the swimmer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: Alex Aquatics
    Inventors: Alex Boutov, Andrei Krylov
  • Publication number: 20140171271
    Abstract: A starting block for swimming equipped with a single curved surface to facilitate track starts while reducing the trip hazard of such a surface. This allows for safer mounting from rear and side steps and removes undesirable gaps in the top surface of the starting block. A pliable embodiment of said curved surface can modify the distance of the curvature from the leading edge of the starting block to adapt to different swimmer needs. An apparatus to obtain said distance for a given swimmer from a meet management system to modify the pliable embodiment for quick change during time-constrained events such as meets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Colorado Time Systems
    Inventors: Eric Solanyk, Christian Stockinger
  • Publication number: 20140171270
    Abstract: Provided are a device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises, a method for assembling a device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises, a unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer, and a method for assembling a unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer. The device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises comprises a tank configured to accommodate a swimmer and a cover connected to the tank. The device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises further comprises a restraining element. A first end of the restraining element is connected to the tank and the second end of the restraining element is configured to be connected to the swimmer. The unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer comprises a housing, within which a motive force sensor, a processing unit, and a transmitter are enclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony Frolov
  • Publication number: 20140155227
    Abstract: Individual swimmers may routinely and easily perform exercise regiments to maintain or enhance their general health and fitness utilizing the present invention. A pole may be secured adjacent a body of water to retain a tether and a harness which retains the swimmer. The pole mount provides for securement at generally any swimming pool utilizing a hand rail which exists with generally all swimming pools. This provides for the swimming exercise device to be extremely transportable while ensuring use without any structural modification to any existing structure of the swimming pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: DONALD BELLERIVE
  • Publication number: 20140106939
    Abstract: A swimming workout planning and lap counting device includes a rope or band including first and second ends and a middle portion; and a plurality of floatable indicators having a plurality of indicia, wherein the plurality of floatable indicators are arranged in sequence corresponding to a swimming workout plan, wherein each floatable indicator indicates, based on indicia, a portion of the swimming workout plan selected from the group consisting of one or more specific numbers of laps to swim, stroking techniques to perform, kicking techniques to perform, pulling exercises or other drills to perform, and rest periods to execute, wherein the floatable indicators move on the rope/band so that after a portion of the swimming workout plan is completed, the corresponding floatable indicator is moveable from a first position to a second position on the rope/band to indicate completion of that portion of the swimming workout plan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Renee Kotz
  • Patent number: 8696525
    Abstract: A starting block for swimming equipped with a single curved surface to facilitate track starts while reducing the trip hazard of such a surface. This allows for safer mounting from rear and side steps and removes undesirable gaps in the top surface of the starting block. A pliable embodiment of said curved surface can modify the distance of the curvature from the leading edge of the starting block to adapt to different swimmer needs. An apparatus to obtain said distance for a given swimmer from a meet management system to modify the pliable embodiment for quick change during time-constrained events such as meets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Colorado Time Systems
    Inventors: Eric Solanyk, Christian Stockinger
  • Patent number: 8652013
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device (100) includes a cuff strap (102) for fastening a plurality of fins (106) to a user's leg. The cuff strap (102) is configured to position the plurality of fins (102) to extend outwardly form an interior of the cuff strap (102) when the cuff strap (102) is fastened to an ankle area of the user's leg. The plurality of fins (106) provide resistance in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the user's foot when the aquatic exercise device (100) is moved through water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Patent number: 8647239
    Abstract: A swim trainer comprising: a base; an upright member extending from the base; two arms each carried by the upright member and terminating with an end pulley; two pull cords each having one end connected to a hand pull, extending from the hand pull over the end pulley, a second pulley positioned adjacent to the upright member, and then along the upright member; a rotatable shaft positioned adjacent to the base; a loading mechanism, connected to the shaft, to resist rotation and unwinding of the cord around the shaft; a clutch assembly positioned on the shaft arranged to rotate the shaft when the handle is pulled down and otherwise spin freely; a rewind bias means to rewind the cord around the shaft; and, a tipping and/or rotating balance platform assembly, seated on the base, for the swimmer to stand on, when pulling the hand pull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Genadijus Sokolovas, Birute Sokolovas, Nikiforas Sokolovas, David W. Wilhide
  • Patent number: 8641580
    Abstract: Individual swimmers may routinely and easily perform exercise regiments to maintain or enhance their general health and fitness utilizing the present invention. A pole may be secured adjacent a body of water to retain a tether and a harness which retains the swimmer. Numerous pole mounting arrangements provide for deployment of the swimming exercise device with nearly any configuration of swimming pool without regard for whether the pool is of the in ground style or of the above ground style and without regard for size from the smallest available to Olympic size. A small but durable hand rail mount and a water filled anchor which merely sits adjacent the body of water provide for excellent securement of the pole without any structural modification to any existing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Donald Bellerive
  • Publication number: 20140024501
    Abstract: A device for improving the swimming performance of a user. The device includes an upper layer made of a translucent or transparent material, a middle layer disposed adjacent the first layer and made of a reflective material, and a lower layer disposed adjacent the second layer. The third layer is made of an opaque material. Additionally, a line is disposed along a length of at least one of the upper, middle, and lower layers to assist the user in determining a position of the user, so as to correct movements of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Juan Cruz TABENA ISERN, Roberto ALFONZO-LARRAIN
  • Publication number: 20140018211
    Abstract: A swim training apparatus for training a user during swimming, the apparatus including, an at least semi-rigid body, an attachment mechanism to allow the body to be worn by the user so that at least part of the body contacts the user's torso to thereby provide at least one of resistance training for improving at least one of strength and stability of the user, and posture training for guiding user posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Samuel James, Mark Dockrill, Kon Euan Garard Wong, Simon Lawry
  • Publication number: 20140005004
    Abstract: A swimmer's resistance trainer having a base frame comprising two long slide rail sides and two short bench mount sides attached to each other to form a generally rectangular form, a bench rail attached to the two short sides using a vertical mount that extends between an end of the bench rail and each short side; a padded bench mounted onto a pivotal bench mount mounted onto a slide body that slideably attached to the bench rail; a padded head support attached to a headrest body that is slideably attached to the bench rail; at least one slideable padded armrest attached to an arm support post attached to a slideable arm rest body slideably attached to at least one of the long slide rails of the base frame, the at least one padded armrest comprises an arm resistance mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Gary W. Hall, SR.
  • Publication number: 20130252788
    Abstract: An adjustable swimmer's starting block includes a wedge shaped launch block that is movable between a stowed position and plural positions along a surface of a starting platform, providing adjustable positioning to the starting block for adaptation to different users and uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: S.R. SMITH, LLC
    Inventors: Mikhael Kaiel, William Svendsen
  • Patent number: 8506456
    Abstract: An apparatus for replicating swimming, rowing, cycling or other exercise modalities. An apparatus includes a base, a frame extending up from the base, and a support member coupled to a top portion of the frame. The apparatus further includes a forward-ascending bench. The bench includes a torso support section to support a user's torso, pivotally coupled to the support member, and configured for limited angular rotation about an axis parallel to at least a portion of the support member. The bench further includes left and right leg support sections, pivotally coupled to the torso support section, to support at least the user's thighs. The apparatus also includes a coupling member extending forward from the base, and configured to interchangeably couple with an exercise module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Swimworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Zuckerman
  • Publication number: 20130178341
    Abstract: The invention provides a mobile structure that can be used in any water body having a relatively uniform floor and a calm surface (i.e., beach, lake or pool). This structure has multiple hold and leaning surfaces and/or elements that lie flush and below the water level providing people with disabilities and older people a solid support structure to hold, sit, stand or lean while performing adapted swimming activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventors: Mauricio A. Lizama, Diego A. Agostini
  • Publication number: 20130095980
    Abstract: A starting block for swimming equipped with a single curved surface to facilitate track starts while reducing the trip hazard of such a surface. This allows for safer mounting from rear and side steps and removes undesirable gaps in the top surface of the starting block. A pliable embodiment of said curved surface can modify the distance of the curvature from the leading edge of the starting block to adapt to different swimmer needs. An apparatus to obtain said distance for a given swimmer from a meet management system to modify the pliable embodiment for quick change during time-constrained events such as meets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: COLORADO TIME SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Eric Solanyk, Christian Stockinger
  • Patent number: 8419599
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater exercise and physical therapy device for joint release and spinal adjustment wherein a tube is worn on a user's upper body and weights are worn on the user's feet in a water tank having a predetermined depth wherein his feet are spaced apart from the bottom surface thereof to carry out underwater exercise and physical therapy by using the buoyant force of the tube and the gravity of the weights, thereby enabling his joints to be released, making his muscles reformed, and further adjusting and preventing his spinal diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Gye-Hyun Seol
  • Patent number: 8406085
    Abstract: The swim device includes a wrist unit system wearable on a wrist and a hand, at least one hand sensor unit that is wearable on a hand, and at least one foot sensor unit wearable on a foot. The wrist unit system includes a wrist unit and at least one pressure sensor. The wrist unit includes an integrated circuit chip (ICC) computer; a battery; an alarm, a display and housing with input buttons, and a wrist band with an embedded antenna. The hand/foot sensor unit includes an integrated circuit chip (ICC) computer with a battery. The pressure sensor is attached to a cap that is worn on the first segment of a finger or big toe in such a manner that the pressure sensor faces the water-bound side of the finger or big toe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Masami Sakita
  • Patent number: 8388502
    Abstract: A swimmer training device includes a frame, a variable weight device, a first block, a second block, and a cable. The frame includes a bottom support section, a top section, and a plurality of support members. The first block is coupled to the top section, and comprises a plurality of first main pulleys that are each rotatable about a first axis. The second block is coupled to the variable weight device, and comprises a plurality of second main pulleys that are each rotatable about a second axis that is parallel to the first axis. The cable is wound at least partially around each of the first main pulleys and each of the second main pulleys, and extends from the top section of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Rocket Industries, LLC.
    Inventor: Marc Nathan Tedhams
  • Patent number: 8376914
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device is provided that has a body made of foam that extends 360° about an axis and at least partially defines a central aperture that extends through the axis. The body has an inner half with an outer surface oriented generally towards the central aperture. The body has an outer half with an outer surface oriented generally away from the central aperture. The entire outer surface of the outer half is convex in shape, and the outer surface of the inner half is convex in shape along an arc length of at least 270° of the inner half of the body about the axis. A ledge extends from the inner half and at least partially defines the central aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Pamela Josephine Avrett
  • Patent number: 8355010
    Abstract: A load cell touch control device includes a touch panel, a plurality of load cells and a control unit. The touch panel receives a stress applied thereon. The load cells are implemented in the touch panel to detect respective components of the stress received by the touch panel. The control unit is connected to the load cells in order to receive magnitudes of the respective components to thereby calculate a magnitude, position and motion trace of the stress on the touch panel based on the respective components detected by the load cells in the touch panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Geee Creations, Inc.
    Inventors: Chung-Liang Lin, Chang-Chun Lung, Pi-Lieh Chang, Tsung-Hsin Liu, Ta-Jen Lin, Ko-Po Lin, Cheng-Hao Yu
  • Patent number: 8341765
    Abstract: A training garment is provided for use by a swimmer. The garment includes a layer of material that is configured to conform to a body portion of the swimmer, and a plurality of pockets that extend from the layer of material for increasing drag on the swimmer as the body portion is moved in a preselected direction of movement. At least one of the pockets has first and second conditions. In the first condition, drag is increased by that pocket on the swimmer as the body portion moves in the preselected direction of movement. In the second condition, drag is not increased by that pocket on the swimmer as the body portion moves in the preselected direction of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Ralph R Brodbeck
  • Patent number: 8333682
    Abstract: Swim training apparatus comprising, a pair of leg bands, each having posterior sides and adapted to be secured around the thigh portion of a swimmer's legs, a waist band having a posterior side and adapted to be secured around the waist of a swimmer, a lever arm attached to waist band and having distal ends and a center and a pair of connecting straps each having distal and proximate ends where the proximate ends are attached to the respective distal ends of the lever arm and the distal ends of the straps are attached to the respective posterior sides of the leg bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
  • Publication number: 20120316039
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device (100) includes a cuff strap (102) for fastening a plurality of fins (106) to a user's leg. The cuff strap (102) is configured to position the plurality of fins (102) to extend outwardly form an interior of the cuff strap (102) when the cuff strap (102) is fastened to an ankle area of the user's leg. The plurality of fins (106) provide resistance in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the user's foot when the aquatic exercise device (100) is moved through water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Patent number: 8297282
    Abstract: A hyperbaric exercise facility is provided allowing a persons to perform exercises and other activities at increased pressures along with controlled levels of oxygen. Additionally, a catastrophe shelter is provided to protect its occupants from peril.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Merrell T. Holley, James L. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20120264574
    Abstract: An aqua-gym device includes a supporting frame, a training connector, and an elastic element. The elastic element has a first elastic portion having one end movably connected to the supporting frame, and another end movably connected to the training connector such that the first elastic element is arranged to exert an upward force to the user for substantially assisting the user to float in the water. The elastic element further has a second elastic portion having one end movably connected to the supporting frame, and another end movably connected to the training connector such that the second elastic element is arranged to exert a backward pulling force to the user, so that when the user exercises in the water, the first and the elastic element substantially guide the user by assisting the user to float in the water and providing a guiding force to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Lawrence Chang
  • Patent number: 8246523
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device (100) includes a cuff strap (102) for fastening a plurality of fins (106) to a user's leg. The cuff strap (102) is configured to position the plurality of fins (102) to extend outwardly form an interior of the cuff strap (102) when the cuff strap (102) is fastened to an ankle area of the user's leg. The plurality of fins (106) provide resistance in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the user's foot when the aquatic exercise device (100) is moved through water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Publication number: 20120152243
    Abstract: A tent-like structure has a compact configuration and can be expanded to an expanded configuration large enough totally to enclose a patient. A recirculating gas supply arrangement supplies a mixture of oxygen and helium to the inside of the structure. The structure may contain exercise equipment, such as a static cycle, so that the patient can exercise in the gas mixture. The structure could also be used over a swimming pool. A weight or other means at the lower end of the structure helps to seal it with the floor surface and reduce escape of gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Smiths Medical International Limited
    Inventors: Richard Hingley, Eric Pagan, Peter Ryan Smith
  • Publication number: 20120053021
    Abstract: A swim training aid apparatus is provided for use on a limb of a swimmer, during a swimming motion. The training aid includes a flexible band member configured to extend circumferentially around the limb, and a lock device cooperating with the band member to releasably retain the same around the swimmer's limb. The training aid further includes a substantially non-absorbent, flexible material sheath having one end thereof mounted to the band member, and an opposite end thereof extending distally past and terminating beyond the limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: AQUAVOLO LLC
    Inventors: Eduard Y. Sherstnev, Gavin B. Lee
  • Patent number: 8057369
    Abstract: Floatable chair devices, apparatus, systems and methods of using the chair having buoyant material in the headrest as well as the arm rests to provide for a stable floatation platform that would suspend the user to “lounge” or relax or engage in various exercises. The chair can be adjusted by moveable and extendable outrigger floats and/or a head rest, Parallel sideway extending gripping handles can provide the ability to maintain control of the chair and prevent the user from drifting out of the chair during various rigorous exercises. The seat can incorporate unique features to hold the user in place to facilitate the various exercise and prevent “drift” out of the chair yet not secure the individual to the seat in a way that would prevent rapid separation from the device in case of capsize or a compromised position that could increase the risk of drowning. The chair can be easily maneuvered around a swimming pool by kicking with the legs or propelled forward or backward by arm movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Rod Salach
  • Publication number: 20110263387
    Abstract: Swim training apparatus comprising, a pair of leg bands, each having posterior sides and adapted to be secured around the thigh portion of a swimmer's legs, a waist band having a posterior side and adapted to be secured around the waist of a swimmer, a lever arm attached to waist band and having distal ends and a center and a pair of connecting straps each having distal and proximate ends where the proximate ends are attached to the respective distal ends of the lever arm and the distal ends of the straps are attached to the respective posterior sides of the leg bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
  • Publication number: 20110256989
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device and method for allowing a swimmer to swim in place comprising using a device with a swimmer attachment element adapted to fit over a part of the swimmers body, an anchor attachment element connected to the swimmer attachment element and adapted to attach to an anchor, said anchor configured to immovably absorb the forward thrust of a swimmer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Mary S. Boelter Lienke
  • Patent number: 8007410
    Abstract: A device for stationary swimming in an above-ground or self-supporting swimming pool includes an item of equipment intended to surround the body of a swimmer, a flexible tether fastened at one end to the item of equipment, and at least one attachment pole with at least one hitching point for fastening to the other end of the tether. The base of the attachment pole is removable manner and has at least one anchoring plate extending laterally with respect to the base of the pole. The plate has an elongate shape and a size such that a large portion of its length can be slipped beneath one of the ends of a water basin lying on the ground. The mass of water contained in the basin firmly blocks the pole, thereby immobilizing and stabilizing the attachment pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Christophe Mayaud
  • Patent number: 7998031
    Abstract: A device and method of use for the same adapted for aquatic exercise. The device includes an inner member and an outer foam member, each having a length much greater than its respective average outside diameters and both the inner member and an outer foam member having approximately the same length. The inner member adapted to be water-tight and being located substantially within the outer foam member. Where the inner member is more rigid than said outer foam member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: Sharon Dumke, Joanne Randell
  • Publication number: 20110136629
    Abstract: Individual swimmers may routinely and easily perform exercise regiments to maintain or enhance their general health and fitness utilizing the present invention. A pole may be secured adjacent a body of water to retain a tether and a harness which retains the swimmer. Numerous pole mounting arrangements provide for deployment of the swimming exercise device with nearly any configuration of swimming pool without regard for whether the pool is of the in ground style or of the above ground style and without regard for size from the smallest available to Olympic size. A small but durable hand rail mount and a water filled anchor which merely sits adjacent the body of water provide for excellent securement of the pole without any structural modification to any existing structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Donald Bellerive