Abstract: The present invention is directed to an exercise and training device for runners and provides a means to train them to stay in the most efficient position for optimum muscle use and to improve speed and lateral quickness. The device comprises an upper thigh strap, a foot stirrup and a length of resilient elastic material adjustably secured therebetween and adjusted to maintain the user's knee at a 90° angle during running.

Abstract: A sports training apparatus having a substantially resilient elongated arm support coupled to straps adapted to surround an athlete's shoulders to hold the arm support securely against the athlete's chest and under the athlete's arms to facilitate the proper training position for a variety of sports activities. Methods of using the training apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hand-held drinking container for consuming liquids, particularly while a user is engaged in physical activity, such as running, walking or in-line skating. One liquid reservoir (1) forms both the main body (27) and the handle (6) of the container. The user turns a trigger (3) on the outside of the handle (6) so as to enable an internal triggering mechanism (10) to lower a sealer (11) to permit liquid to exit the container via the funnel spout (2) on top of the container. Cushion supports (4) located on the main body (27) press against a back side of the user's hand to allow the user to focus his or her attention on the activity rather than on constantly gripping the container. One or more optional weights (7) can be secured to the bottom of the container by using straps (8) to enhance a workout. An optional flashlight (28) may be secured as well to provide safety for those who prefer exercising when dark.

Abstract: A starting block is used by a runner in a track event. The starting block contains a rail and a pair of foot pedal assemblies, one assembly connected to the left side of the rail and one assembly connected to the right side of the rail. Each foot pedal assembly contains a pad having a width of about five to twelve inches upon which the runner's foot is placed. Each pad contains markings along its width to enable the runner to place his feet at precisely the desired width.

Abstract: The gait-locomotor apparatus of the present invention is a device for overcoming impeded locomotion in humans and is aimed at enabling people with handicapped lower limbs to walk. The gait-locomotor apparatus that is wore on a disabled user comprises a brace having a plurality of jointed segments that are adapted to fit the lower body of the disabled user and propulsion means that is adapted to provide relative movement between the plurality of jointed segments. The gait-locomotor apparatus further comprises at least one sensor adapted to monitor the angular position of at least one of the plurality of jointed segments and a control unit that is adapted to supervise the propulsion means and to receive feedback information from the sensors so as to facilitate the brace to perform walking patterns.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable personal training and exercise device with a cable and pulley mechanism which also is a mobile personal training and exercise device having an ergonomic plastic external housing that with the use of straps fits in the hand as well as against different parts of the body. The present invention has a cable and pulley mechanism inside a housing which has a pulley rotatably mounted on a shaft that spins in only one direction. The pulley spins in both directions so that it is spring biased for rewinding a cord onto the pulley. Next to the pulley is a brake wheel or brake bushing that is attached to the shaft. The brake wheel or brake bushing and a pulley spinning on a single shaft inserts into a sealed ball bearing on both ends. A spring is connected to the bottom of the pulley. In the center of the pulley is a combination ball bearing/one-way clutch that turns the shaft only in one direction. The shaft is attached to the brake wheel or brake bushing.

Abstract: A new and improved figure eight shaped exercise device and method of using is disclosed. One preferred embodiment of the device comprises a first hoop-like member having a handgrip attached to the first hoop-like member 12 and a second hoop-like member attached to the first hoop-like member. Another preferred embodiment of the device consist of a first hoop-like member having a handgrip attached to the first hoop-like member; and a second hoop-like member attached to the first hoop-like member, the second hoop-like member having an arm engagement pad. One preferred embodiment of the method comprises the steps of adjusting, gripping, inserting, jogging, obtaining, running, slipping, suspending, and walking.

Abstract: A recreational assistance device having a streamline shaped substantially open main body with four large pneumatic tires to allow the device to move easily over rough terrain. The device is equipped with a braking system including at least one brake handle. A safety harness may be secured to the braking system and worn by a user to automatically actuate the braking system if the person falls, slips or stumbles when jogging or walking. The handle bars and other upper portions of the device are preferably padded and the rear wheels have associated movable stops to allow the device to be stopped and held in a rest or stop position. The four-wheel recreational assistance device may be provided with telescoping supporting arms for a carrying bag for holding packages or other materials.

Abstract: A skating training aid consisting of a base plate that slides on the ice—or rolls on any other less slippery surface—and is made of a series of telescoping adjustable rods and the said device can also accept weight plates to adjust the level of strength required to push it while practicing skating movements.

Abstract: A training device includes a pair of limb encircling cuffs with an elastic band therebetween. On each cuff is a buckle for releasably attaching one end of the tension band thereto. Each buckle includes a frame with a slidable latch therein, the latch having a locking post movable between a first seated and a second unseated position. A ring fastener at the end of the band encircles the seat such that movement of the post to its seated position extends the post through the ring. Movement of the post to the seated position is provided by expansion of a spring as previously compressed by the unseated latch.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a display unit to be mounted on a wrist of a user includes a display screen, a base, and at least one strap. The display unit is configured such that, when it is worn by the user, the display screen is oriented at an angle with respect to a surface of the user's wrist. In another embodiment, visually-perceptible information indicative of determined values of the instantaneous pace of a user and the average pace of the user are displayed, simultaneously. In another embodiment, visually-perceptible information indicative of the determined values of the at least one variable physiological parameter of the user and the at least one performance parameter of the user are displayed, simultaneously.

Abstract: An exercise device to selectively exercise leg muscles. The exercise device comprises a waist portion, a rigid member attachable to the waist portion and an elastic strap attachable to the rigid member and a foot of a user. The rigid member is positionable about the waist member to position the elastic strap either along a forward portion of a leg or along a rearward portion of the leg. The elastic strap provides resistance of which can be varied by varying the length of the elastic strap.

Abstract: A pedometer for detecting vibrations in a direction of motion is disclosed. The architecture of the device includes a main body, a vibration detector, and a counting circuit. The counting circuit is connected to the vibration detector and the counting circuit and vibration detector are installed inside the main body. Since the vibration detector is disposed orthogonal to the direction of motion, the vibration detector is able to detect the smallest vibration in the direction of motion and outputs a pulse signal to the counting circuit. The counting circuit includes a signal amplifier circuit, a signal detection circuit, and a processor. This pedometer is capable of picking up weak vibration signals to take an accurate count of the jogger's pace.

Abstract: An exercise device to be pushed by the user having a frame with handle bars and a fork carrying a road wheel and an adjustable resistance mechanism including a small resistance wheel that can contact the road wheel with relatively greater or lesser force to cause more or less resistance rotation of the road wheel.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame typically an arching member extending between generally parallel lower members having wheels operably coupled thereto. A harness extends from the frame, and the height of the harness is selectively adjustable by a user within the harness. A controller accessible to a user activates a motor and raises and lowers a cable to adjust the height of the harness, and thus the weight load on the user's feet while operating the device. A handlebar extends to one or more of the wheels for selectively steering the device. A brake system accessible to the user enables stopping of the device. The device may include a motor operably coupled to a wheel for propelling the device, and a throttle control for selecting the speed of the motor. Thus, the user of the device can selectively alter the impact weight and speed while operating the device.

Abstract: A wearable upper body exercise device for providing resistance to the natural forward arm swinging motion. The device comprises a wearable structure having one or more resistance units each attached to one end of a cord having an engagement interface attached at the other end of the cord. Each resistance unit provides resistance to pulling of the cord away from it. Each cord is engaged by a cord guide located in back of the user, below waist level, and, optionally, outward relative to the spine of the user. Each cord guide is connected to a cord-positioning structure, each comprising a shaft extending rearward and downward from the point of attachment to the wearable structure. One of the engagement interface or the resistance unit engages an arm or hand of the user, and the other engages the mounting unit.

Abstract: A body motion detector, to be attached to or carried by a user for detecting body motions of the user, uses a plurality of sensors each for detecting body motions in a specified direction to output a body motion signal according to the user's body motion. These sensors are disposed so as to detect the body motion in different directions. One of these sensors are selected by carrying out calculations on signals outputted from the sensors. The user's body motion is detected by using selectively output signals from the selected body motion sensor. The body motion detector may also include a component for detecting the orientation of the body motion detector itself from signals outputted from these sensors and another component for detecting the user's body motions by carrying out calculations on the signals outputted from these sensors, corresponding to the orientation as detected by the orientation detecting component.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device (10) includes a first (11) and second (12) fluid impermeable, opposed sheets that are sealed along an outline seal (31) to define a selectively inflatable chamber (13, 16, 19) therebetween. A first (33) and second (36) strap are each connected to one of the first (11) and second (12) sheets. A plurality of hand holds (37, 40, 43, 55, 58, 60) are formed along the first and second straps (33, 36) at predetermined varying distances from the chamber (13, 16, 19). To use this device (10), the chamber (13, 16, 19) is placed under the user's head in contact with the neck and upper back and supporting the same. One of the user's hands holds on the first strap. The first strap (33) and second strap (36) are pulled sufficiently to support the user's head, neck and upper back.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus is provided to accompany an individual while the individual is running along the ground. The apparatus supports the individual and permits the individual to move his legs freely while running. The apparatus includes a pair of spaced apart rear wheels and a free castoring front steering wheel. The individual steers the apparatus by turning the rear of the apparatus to cause the front steering wheel to turn.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for use with a treadmill for exercising and strengthening the legs and the lower body of the user. The apparatus comprises a base that attaches to the treadmill, an elastomeric member that attaches to the user, and a flexible panel with means for adjusting the resistance exerted on the user.

Abstract: A portable in-place beveled multilevel cushioned mat that allows simulated jogging and running. This cushioned mat consists of a flat front section for the toes and front of the foot, and a beveled higher back section with a high flat top for the heel to provide foot support and anatomically corrected jogging and running motion. It is made of a closed or open cellular foam system from polymeric elastomers. The mat may be made of a foam core with polymer coated shell or molded with one or more than one type of foam system.

Abstract: An exercise device to selectively exercise leg muscles. The exercise device comprises a waist portion, a rigid member attachable to the waist portion and an elastic strap attachable to the rigid member and a foot of a user. The rigid member is positionable about the waist member to position the elastic strap either along a forward portion of a leg or along a rearward portion of the leg. The elastic strap provides resistance of which can be varied by varying the length of the elastic strap.

Abstract: A variable tension exercise glove construction (10) including a glove member (20) having a glove section (21) and gauntlet section (22) that covers a portion of a user's forearm and a tension unit (12) that includes a fabric panel (42) provided on the gauntlet section (22) and a plurality of elastic tension bands (30) secured on one end to the end of the finger (25) and thumb portions (26) of the glove section; wherein, the other end of the elastic tension bands (30) are attached to a movable tension pad (34) that is adapted to be releasably engaged with a selected portion of the fabric panel (42) on the gauntlet section (22) of the glove member (20).

Abstract: An exercise machine is disclosed. In an embodiment for an exercise machine in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the exercise machine includes a frame having a first axle support and a second axle support. A roller is disposed between the first axle support and the second axle support. An axle extends through the roller and includes a portion extending external to the second axle support. A variable resistance mechanism is coupled to the external portion of the axle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for calculating, presenting, recalling and recording the maximum running speed of a user over a prescribed distance in miles per hour or meters per second. The result is shown in digital and iconic form on a liquid crystal display (LCD). The apparatus incorporates a micro-controller, a LCD, a motion sensor, a sound generator, press switches, and light emitting diodes. The motion sensor is used to generate a signal, in response to external motion, which is input to the micro-controller for use in calculating the speed in accordance with a prescribed formula. Upon completion of running over a fixed time period or distance, a message is displayed on the LCD to indicated the maximum speed achieved by the user during an interval of the fixed time and over the prescribed distance. The apparatus may be adapted for use on shoes, a user's wrists, or the like, for the purpose of encouraging the user to run as fast as possible, and to ensure safety of the user at night.

Abstract: The present invention provides performance enhancing shoe components and methods of using those shoe components to increase exercise performance. The shoe components comprise a layer of 1,4-polybutadiene and, optionally, a high energy returning rubber. A second layer of an energy returning rubber and/or a coating is optionally applied to the first layer. The invented shoe components may be formed as shoe inserts, insoles, midsoles, soles, or portions thereof.

Abstract: A device for walking or running in place, especially for virtual spaces, is described, in which two transport elements crossing each other at a right angle are provided, which together form a walkable central surface (4), on which a user (13) walks forward, whereas, under him, the transport elements move at the same speed. It is essential that the transport elements (1, 2) consist of rows of square plates or tiles (5), which can be moved in rows in the X and Y directions, where at all times a row of tiles is removed by a transfer device (9, 10, 28, 17) and then shifted by 90° or 180°.

Abstract: The present invention is a modular component leg, arm, and body-stretching device. It includes a main winding component having a handle and at least one cable functionally connected to and capable of being wound toward the handle. The handle contains a one directional winding mechanism and a trigger, wherein when the trigger is depressed, the cable advances toward the handle. The handle also has a release mechanism to release the cable from the winding mechanism. The main winding component has an auxiliary component attachment at one end thereof for attachment, directly or indirectly, of a foot or hand auxiliary component. The foot auxiliary component is for leg and body exercise, and may be a loop or may be a rigid base for placement of a foot thereon, with a foot securing mechanism to hold a foot in place.

Abstract: A support belt device for allowing a user to walk or run on a treadmill without holding on to the treadmill handle. The support belt device includes a panel. The panel includes a first end, a second end, a front side, a back side and a peripheral edge integrally coupled to and extending between the front side and the back side. A strap that includes a first end and a second end is securably attached to the backside of the panel. A pair of coupling members is designed for coupling the first and second ends of the strap to the handrail of the treadmill.

Abstract: A training device for a gliding sport athlete trains the athlete to have the proper knee bend for gliding sports such as ice skating, inline skating, skiing, etc. The device includes a belt for securing about the waist of the athlete, the belt having a front portion adapted to be worn adjacent the navel of the athlete, a right side portion adapted to be worn adjacent the right hip of the athlete, and a left side portion adapted to be worn adjacent the left hip of the athlete. A pair of foot attachments are adapted to be fastened to a front portion of the respective feet or footwear of the athlete. One end of a first pair of cords is connected to the belt at a position between the front portion and the right side portion, and another end connected to one of the foot attachments, and a one end of a second pair of cords is connected to the belt at a position between the front portion and the left side portion, and another end connected to another of the foot attachments.

Abstract: Training apparatus that includes a base unit and foot plates moveably arranged on the base unit for movement in opposite directions and in an essentially same plane. The foot plates are adapted to accommodate the feet of a user. A support unit, which is adapted to support at least one of upper extremities or a head region of the user, is rotatable around an axis essentially perpendicular to the same plane. A transmission mechanism is coupled to the foot plates and the support unit so that movement of the foot plates is transformed into rotational movement of the support unit around the axis.

Abstract: An exercise repetitious motion counter includes a case containing a repetition counter display mounted within the case and visible through a first opening of the case, a proximity sensor mounted within the case and extending through a second opening of the case, the proximity sensor connected to the display to cause the display to show a repetition count when a portion of an exerciser's body comes into non-contact proximity to the proximity sensor, and a detection distance setting mounted within the case and extending through a third opening of the case, the detection distance setting being connected to the proximity sensor and variable to determine a proximity sensitivity range of the proximity sensor.

Abstract: This invention, referred to as an Energy-Efficient Running Aid, relates to passive (spring-actuated) running/walking aids for ortheses, prostheses, and robots—to allow faster running using less energy. The full invention is an leg ortheses or an energy-efficient running brace. It is a running brace which acts in parallel with a runner's leg to support the runner during stance phase and to capture all foot-impact energy, preferably with the optimal constant-force curve, for use to thrust said runner back into the air during toe-off. Novel structural elements include a hyper-extending knee-lock, a variable-angle knee-lock, a kneeless adjustable-length brace, a self-guiding/constant force bow spring, a pulley-based/constant-force bow spring, a asymmetric brace foot, a load-tightening full harness, and a means to guarantee lock release at toe-off. The running brace eliminates impact injuries by absorbing the impact energy.

Abstract: A wheel-mounted exercise device, has a brake cooperating with the wheel at one end of a tube, and a hand grip at the other of the tube, adapted to provide a hand position for proper exercise.

Abstract: A system of monitoring impact stress, or acceleration forces on a user while exercising is disclosed. An exercise machine is equipped with sensing apparatus that measures the downward force exerted on the supporting surface by the lower extremities of the user. In this way, the corresponding impact forces are determined as a function of the user's body weight and communicated via a display monitor as “G-forces” or “Earth Gravity Units.” This allows the user to keep exercise impact within limits desired by the user, a physical therapist, or other qualified professional.

Abstract: An exercise device for supporting the head, neck, and upper back of a user performing abdominal exercises, the exercise device being provided with a head, neck, and upper back pad (10) having a strap handle assembly (34), and hand loops (78, 81).

Abstract: An athletic training shoe that is designed to simulate beach training (exercising in sand) so as to provide the user with all of the positive effects of beach training which result in improved running speed, vertical jump, pedal agility and quickness. Such benefits are easily understood where greater demands are placed on an athlete's muscles when walking, running, or jumping on a beach as opposed to other common surfaces. The muscles of the lower leg are strengthened and elongated simultaneously as they are put through a broader range of motion. The athletic training shoe is comprised of a highly pliable, foot-receiving member which places the user's foot in an ample depth of sand simulating material contained by a material holding element, positioned specifically under the front portion of the user's foot. This causes the user's weight and momentum to be supported by the muscles of the lower leg and foot that control flexion of the foot and toes.

Abstract: A device for exercising a user's upper body, including a waist mountable assembly secured about the waist of the user, a frame member extending from the belt and including a proximal and a pair of distal ends, wherein the distal ends are located to the rear of the user and below a transverse plane of the user generally including the belt. A flexible cord member is associated with each distal end and coupled to a pair of hand attachment elements. A resistance force is transferred by the cord member for providing a force opposing exercise movement of each hand attachment means during use, the force generally directed to the associated distal end of an extending portion of the frame member during use.

Abstract: A pedometer includes a main body 1, two acceleration sensors 3 and 4 supported in an oscillating manner in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction at a substrate 2 within the main body 1, an angle detection sensor 5 for detecting an angle of inclination of main body 1 to the ground, and a pace counter for selecting output of either acceleration sensor 3 or 4 according to an output of angle detection sensor 5 for counting the number of paces thereby.

Abstract: A weight apparatus adapted to be worn on the shank position of either the arm or the leg and the associated method of attaching such a weight apparatus to the body. The weight apparatus includes at least one weight between one half pound and ten pounds. A biasing device is used to bias the weight against the shank portion of the limb. The biasing device biases the weight in a specific orientation whereby the weight is held against the shank in the region where the predominant bone in the shank is most discernable. By biasing the weight in such a position, there is little muscle or tendons disposed between the weight and the bone. As a result, as the muscles and tendons in the shank are flexed, there is little change in the shape of the surface against which the weight rests. As a result, the weight can be worn comfortably in a manner that does not restrict the natural movements of any muscles or tendons within the limb.

Abstract: User adjustable weight device 10 is worn by a user for applying weight to the user. Weight device 10 comprises a strap portion 12 and weight roll pockets 14. Rolls of weights 16 are inserted into and removed from the weight roll pockets 14 so that a desired amount of weight is controlled, adjusted, and achieved by the user as desired. Weight device 10 further has a fluid containing device 24 with a fluid inlet 26. Fluid containing device 24 receives and holds fluid filled by the user through the fluid inlet 26. Fluid is filled into or removed from the fluid containing device 24 so that a desired amount of weight is controlled, adjusted, and achieved by the user as desired. An audio unit 30 is coupled to the strap portion 12 wherein the audio unit 30 is able to play and/or record information. A storage pocket 40 is coupled to the strap portion 12 wherein the storage pocket 40 stores various items.

Abstract: A hand-held drink dispenser has a main housing (1) and a parallel second housing (4) that is a handle. Both are attached to a base plate (7) and covered with a funneled cap (13) having a funnel spout (14) that is sized and shaped to fit in a user's mouth to funnel liquid from a plurality of reservoirs (2, 5) in the main housing and in the second housing. A cushiony support (15) between the handle and the main housing helps hold the dispenser in order to relax holding grip for allowing the user to concentrate on physical activities and other concerns. Separate reservoirs prevent sloshing of the liquid and provide measured output from each of a pair of left-hand and right-hand units while also allowing balance of weight of liquid in each hand. Weight-attachment (16) and item-attachment (18, 19, 20) means are optional.

Abstract: A physical therapy device for correcting gait and balance. The device generally includes a rectangular frame having front, back, right and left sides, a vertical member extending downwardly from a center of the back side of the frame and longitudinal grips extending downwardly from intersections of the front side with each of the left and right sides. In use, the user stands within the generally rectangular frame with his forearms extending forward perpendicularly from the body and gripping the longitudinal grip members with the back side of the frame extending substantially horizontally across the shoulder blades of the user and the vertical member extending downwardly between the shoulder blades of the user.

Abstract: Exercise board comprising a generally rectangular platform having a laminated structure with a horizontally extending substantially rigid substrate and a pad of resilient material on the upper side of the substrate, and bars of resilient spring material extending along opposing side margins of the platform and permitting the platform to flex with a resilient action in response to the weight of a person who is exercising thereon. In some embodiments, the bars are arched and impart an upwardly convex contour to the platform. In others, the bars are eliminated, and the platform is fabricated of a fiber reinforced plastic and formed with an upwardly convex contour or arch.

Abstract: An exercise dumbbell includes a handle having a first weight member releasably coupled thereto. In addition, a first light structure is releasably coupled to the handle adjacent the first weight member such that the light member securely couples the weight member to the handle. The first light structure includes a light source house within a fluorescent lens.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus, the apparatus including a first member disposed along a first axis that intersects a ground surface, a radial member attached to the first member, and a support surface configured for movement of the support surface along an arcuate path relative to the first member and relative to the ground surface.

Abstract: An improved exercise device including two exercise poles, each having an upper segment secured via an articulating joint to the upper body and a lower segment which is slidably connected to the upper segment. The lower segment includes a hand support or hand grip. A vest with an integral harness includes left and right side articulating joints providing a selected amount of friction. Preferably, each joint includes a cylindrical molded hub with two opposed transversely projecting bayonet lugs; the hub is received within a collar affixed at the proximal end of an upper pole segment and having a circular aperture ringed by an inwardly projecting annular flange with two opposed grooves adapted to receive the two hub bayonet lugs. The hub and collar are separable and are joined by aligning the hub bayonet lugs with the collar flange grooves whereupon the hub may be inserted coaxially within the collar, thereby projecting the hub lugs beyond the opposing surface of the inwardly projecting annular flange.

Abstract: A variable resistance exercise assembly for runners, football players and the like includes a housing having a pair of opposing spaced side walls with an end wall therebetween. A fixed cylinder is rotatably mounted between the side walls. A cord is wrapped about the cylinder with each of its two ends extending from the end wall of the housing. Each end of the cord includes a hook for attaching either end of the cord to a shoulder harness.

Abstract: The invention is an exercise apparatus for athletes who engage is sports that require a strong, quick kick. A pair of cables extend from a platform and contain cuffs for strapping to the athletes ankle. Below the platform is a mechanism, including a reel for storing each cable, mounted on a common shaft, through a one way clutch. Each reel is connected to a recoil spring which retracts the cable when any force withdrawing the cable is relaxed. An adjustable friction brake is attached to the common shaft for controlling the force required to withdraw the cable from the stored condition.

Abstract: The invention presents a step count data control system allowing to walk easily and continuously in order to improve health or maintain health, which includes step counting means for counting the number of steps, input means 11 for entering the step count data, recording means 12 for recording daily step count data entered by the input means 11, operating means 14, 15, 16 for operating according to the step count data, and output means 17, 18 for issuing data, in which the step count data entered by the input means 11 and recorded in the recording means 12 is operated in the operating means 14, 15, 16, and the average in a month, the total, the target value in a month, the walking distance converted from the step count, evaluation, past record and its comparison, advice, comment and other data are issued to the output means 17, 18.